Dalmatian Islands Yacht Cruise plus Plitvice Lakes & Šibenik Tour - MS Mendula

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Dalmatian Islands Yacht Cruise plus Plitvice Lakes & Šibenik Tour - MS Mendula

11 days - Ocean Cruises

Sail between the Dalmatian coast and its islands on our epic Adriatic adventure, combining historic seaside destinations, like Roman Split and medieval Korčula, with the beauty of Croatia's Plitvice Lakes. We'll sail along the stunning Dalmatian Coast, where sapphire waters meet dramatic limestone cliffs and picturesque islands beckon with their timeless charm. Glide across crystal clear waters framed by dramatic cliffs and lush islands. Swim in secluded bays, explore charming harbours like Hvar, Korčula, and Bol, and wander historic streets steeped in Venetian and Roman heritage. Your adventure continues on land with a visit to Split, where you'll marvel at Diocletian's Palace - an ancient Roman masterpiece that seamlessly blends into the city's lively streets. Discover the captivating UNESCO-listed Plitvice Lakes, a cascading wonderland of turquoise waters and verdant forest, and explore the laid-back coastal town of Šibenik. This holiday is ideal for travellers who love relaxation, history and natural beauty.

Holiday Highlights

Enjoy guided tours of Split and Emperor Diocletian's monumental palace, green Hvar, medieval Korčula and picturesque Trogir.
Visit the delightful harbour town of Postira, the enchanting old town of Bol and nearby Golden Horn beach, and explore Makarska, below the rocky splendour of Mount Biokovo.
See Brač's Mediterranean landscape and savour the taste of local Croatian produce at a wine tasting in Jelsa and a tasting at the Olive Oil Museum.
Discover the breathtaking scenery and powerful waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes National Park, the largest and oldest national park in Croatia.
Enjoy a guided tour and overnight stay at the medieval town of Šibenik.

What's Included

The price of this holiday is per person, based on two people sharing a double or twin cabin and hotel room. Cabins/rooms for sole occupancy are subject to availability at the stated supplement.
The price includes:
Return flights from a choice of regional airports
7 nights on MS Mendula in your choice of cabin
3 nights in four-star hotels
Daily breakfast, 7 lunches, 3 dinners plus the Captain’s Dinner
Services of our experienced Riviera Tour Manager
Complimentary Wi-Fi on board and at the hotels
All port charges, airport taxes and overseas transfers
ABTA and ATOL protection
Drinks package - two free drinks with lunch and dinner on board, with a choice of soft drinks, local wine and beer
Please note that in the event of unsatisfactory weather conditions the captain reserves the right to alter or reschedule the itinerary.

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive in Croatia and Makarska - You’ll arrive to Makarska harbour to board our ship, the magnificent, twin-masted MS Mendula. As you step on board, you’ll be warmly welcomed by the crew who’ll be on hand to help you settle in and familiarise yourself with this vessel. You’ll have the rest of the day to unpack and unwind (flight time permitting) – perhaps taking a stroll ashore before it’s time to enjoy dinner in the ship’s elegant restaurant. Tonight, chat with your fellow guests over a digestif from the bar as the sun goes down for your first night on board.

Day 2

Bol and Vis - Today we’ll sail to Bol. The Dalmatian Coast is reputedly one of the most picturesque in the world and certainly one of the most dramatic; towering walls of limestone cliff slice the sapphire depths below, interspersed with ribbons of shingle beach, secret coves and idyllic bays. You’ll soon realise why this is one of the most relaxing ways to holiday as you sit back to watch the pine covered coast drifting by. As we arrive in Bol – a town on the Croatian island of Brač, the third largest island in the Adriatic – you’ll be welcomed by the view of a cluster of little fishing boats jostling in its picturesque harbour, fringed by characterful stone cottages. We’ll step ashore to explore the tangle of winding lanes that are unchanged by time, stopping to admire the blooms cascading from wrought-iron balconies. After you’ve worked up an appetite, lunch is served on board whilst you savour the views of the archipelago, before time for a refreshing swim off the ship. Our stop late this afternoon is the nearby island of Vis. An Allied Forces base during World War II, the island was also used as a Yugoslavian naval base and closed to visitors until 1989. You can step ashore into its gorgeous harbour with a quaint jumble of stone houses nestling at the calm water’s edge. There’ll be time to wander at your own pace, soaking up the ambience of this idyllic spot.

Day 3

Hvar and Korčula - Arrive this morning at Hvar Island with swathes of pebble beach and coastline studded with pretty bays and coves. Fed by freshwater springs, the island is lush and green with hillsides draped in an aromatic blanket of pine and eucalyptus forest. The foothills feature a mosaic of ancient olive groves and lavender fields. We’ll enjoy a walking tour around its historic little centre – where the streets don’t even have names! We’ll see the majestic St Stephen’s Square, the largest in Dalmatia, with a 16th century fountain, lined by honey-coloured stone buildings and bustling cafés. After lunch back on board there’ll be another opportunity to swim in these clearest of waters. Later this afternoon, we’ll arrive in the historic walled town of Korčula and moor on the picturesque quayside. Known as Black Korčula by the Greeks due to its thickly forested interior, the island was ruled by the Venetians for 800 years and was famed for supplying timber to build Venice’s legendary wooden walls. It also provided a major shelter for the Venetian fleet and its Italianate atmosphere is evident as you explore its winding streets and cool, shaded alleys. There’s a view to capture around every corner in its exquisite old town - no wonder it’s affectionately nicknamed ‘Little Dubrovnik’. The legendary explorer Marco Polo was born here, and his house can still be visited, as can the All-Saints Museum, with its unique collection of religious icons and exhibits. After our guided walking tour, there’s time to explore this delightful spot under your own steam and as evening falls take dinner at leisure in one of the island’s charming restaurants before heading back on board and finishing the evening with a glass of local rakija in the convivial bar.

Day 4

Jelsa - You could take to the deck this morning to watch the stunning coastal views slipping by. We’ll stop once more for an invigorating swim in one of the many sheltered bays in this breath-taking archipelago. We continue sailing along the northern shores of the island of Hvar to our next port of call. This afternoon, we’ll arrive in Jelsa, nestled on the edge of a pretty bay on the island of Hvar, situated between the island’s highest peaks, St Nikola and Hum. We’ll moor in its harbour fringed with palms and pavement cafés. With its freshwater springs, the island is lush and green, its verdant hillsides draped in thick forest and its foothills perfumed with lavender and fruit orchards. Inhabited since Neolithic times, the Greeks then founded a colony here, becoming a major naval base during the 14th-century as the Venetian Empire extended its reach. Enjoy an independent visit, perhaps enjoying some lunch ashore, and admire the stonework of the typical Dalmatian houses, and the fine church encircled by a web of terracotta roofs and cobbled alleys. You’ll also have the chance to enjoy a guided wine tasting in Jelsa – a town at the heart of Hvar’s rich wine heritage. This tradition stretches back over 2,000 years to the arrival of the Ancient Greeks in 384 BC. Jelsa’s harbour once served as a key hub for transporting its renowned wines across Europe, and in the 19th century, the island boasted around 5,700 hectares of vineyards. Although the phylloxera outbreak and harsh Austro-Hungarian taxes reduced this to just 280 hectares today, Jelsa still produces exceptional wines that reflect centuries of craftsmanship. This evening we enjoy the Captain’s Dinner, with a delicious locally inspired menu.

Day 5

Milna and Trogir - Rising refreshed, you can sit back, savour that second cup and soak up the seascapes in this archipelago as our vessel cuts effortlessly through the waves. Conditions allowing, after another delicious lunch on board, we’ll arrive at Milna on the island of Brač for some free time to enjoy a stroll in this pretty port. Another idyllic swim stop is planned this afternoon as we sail to Trogir. Trogir is a historic coastal gem founded by the Greeks. A succession of rulers left their mark here, evident in its imposing city walls, ancient sights, stately Romanesque and Renaissance buildings and classic waterfront. At the heart of the old town, you’ll find the cathedral, one of the most impressive in the Adriatic. Trogir’s lanes are tucked behind an attractive waterfront and imposing 15th-century walls. Discover this delightful place on a walking tour with a local guide. We’ll remain moored here overnight so, this evening, hop ashore to dine in one of the restaurants serving local Mediterranean-inspired menus: simply grilled fresh fish, pasta with seafood or hearty meat dishes - look out for dishes cooked ‘peka’ - very slowly under a ‘bell’.

Day 6

Split* - After an early morning swim stop, arrive at the port of Split. Here, you’ll join our knowledgeable guide for a walking tour of the sights including the huge Roman ruins of the Emperor Diocletian’s Palace, used in ‘Game of Thrones’. As one of the greatest structures of the Roman Empire, no expense was spared in its construction – the best Italian marble, with columns and sphinxes from Egypt. But what makes this palace so astonishing is that during medieval times it was fully integrated into the town’s fabric with a jumble of buildings grafted onto and inside it. This means for example; the Temple of Jupiter became a baptistry. It’s all the more fascinating that today 3,000 people still live here. You will find surprises at every turn: there are tall medieval buildings lining the streets, buttressed by unmistakably Roman columns. Return to the ship for lunch and sail to the port of Omis for an independent visit and dinner ashore at leisure. *Please note due to reconstruction work planned at Split port in 2026/27, you will anchor off Split for your guided tour on Day 6 and then sail onto Omis to moor overnight.

Day 7

Brač and Makarska - Our final day’s sailing arrives but there’s still so much to enjoy. With sunshine glinting on the azure water, we slip our moorings once again, sailing back towards the island of Brač, the third largest in the Adriatic. We arrive in the fishing port of Postira to spend the morning exploring more of this island. The landscape here is typically Mediterranean - pine-scented uplands with vineyards and citrus groves tumble down to deserted beaches. Take in a panorama from Vidova Gora, the islands highest peak before we enjoy a visit to the Olive Oil Museum Škrip, to sample the excellent produce. The olive oil here is renowned with olive cultivation dating back to the Venetian years. After a late lunch back on board, we'll sail back to Makarska from where you can marvel at the rocky Mount Biokovo. At nearly 1,828 metres above sea level, it shelters the coast from less temperate climates further inland. During the 10th century, this region was bedevilled by pirates preying on passing ships. A slightly raffish atmosphere still prevails but piracy has long since been replaced by more peaceful activities such as fishing, and the production of olive oil and wine. St Mark’s Baroque church and some palatial 18th-century Venetian-style houses stand guard over Makarska’s main square. We moor overnight for our final evening on board and enjoy dinner at leisure.

Day 8

Farm visit - Say farewell to our crew this morning as we disembark MS Mendula and begin our post-cruise land tour. Venturing into the Croatian countryside near Vodice, we’ll stop at a traditional, family run farm. Here, we’ll enjoy a taste of Croatia during a delicious farm-to-table lunch, featuring a range of fresh, local produce. After a leisurely lunch, we’ll continue on to our hotel, near Plitvice Lakes, where we’ll stay for two nights. The rest of the afternoon will be at leisure for you to settle in and explore the local area. There’s no need to worry about what to eat this evening, we’ve arranged for dinner at the hotel to be included.

Day 9

Plitvice Lakes & Korana - Today, be prepared to be mesmerised by the beautiful lakes and waterfalls of the Republic of Croatia's oldest and largest national park, Plitvice Lakes. Located in the mountainous region of Lika, halfway between Zagreb and Zadar, the park is home to a series of around 90 sparkling waterfalls that connect 16 turquoise-coloured lakes. The highest waterfall, Veliki Slap - or Great Waterfall - stands 78 metres high but Sastavci Slap is considered the most beautiful waterfall in the park, situated in serene surroundings near Novakovića Lake. Rumour has it, it's affectionately named after a local man who was always seen crossing the lake in his boat. Here, we'll enjoy a guided tour to discover the park's natural beauty for ourselves as well as a boat ride across the emerald-green Kozjak Lake, the largest and lowest in the area. After our visit, we'll head to a nearby restaurant for a late lunch before visiting Korana. This quaint village is home to historical architecture, including one of the oldest mills still in operation, a water drive sawmill and a promenade along the Korana River. If the weather is warm, you might even spot some locals swimming in its clear waters. This evening, dinner is included at the hotel.

Day 10

Šibenik - Heading south this morning, we'll arrive in the small port of Šibenik for a guided tour. As we stroll through medieval streets with a local guide, we'll learn more about the local history and life in the town today. We'll take a moment to stop to admire its beautifully restored Renaissance town hall and a remarkable Gothic cathedral - it's believed to be the world’s largest church built without brick or wood supports. Later, we'll check into your hotel this afternoon, after which you can enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. You could choose to explore the town some more, lie on the beach or simply relax at the hotel. Dinner is entirely your choice tonight, so feel free to wander the town and explore some traditional Croatian cuisine. You might try a hearty fish stew or the delicious slow-cooked beef, simmered with wine and prunes, accompanied by fresh, crusty bread baked "under the lid" – a typical Croatian cooking style. Sit back and enjoy the enchanting atmosphere of historic Šibenik.

Day 11

Return home

This exquisite vessel offers a thrilling and authentic experience on a classic sailing ship yet with all the comfort and glamour of a modern-day private yacht. With just 15 cabins available for 30 guests, the atmosphere on board is convivial and relaxed with a touch of exclusivity – and you’re assured a first-class service throughout.

Instantly recognisable and causing quite a stir on the quayside, as you are welcomed aboard by our dedicated crew, you’ll be made to feel completely at home in your elegant surroundings. Delight in the ample and stylish sun deck where you can sit and unwind over a long cold drink and catch up on some reading or chat with your fellow sailors and take in the panoramic vistas as you glide through the glistening water. When it’s time to cool off, take a dip off the ship’s platform straight into the Adriatic’s crystal waters then back on board to dry off in the sun – once you’ve discovered this way to holiday, you won’t look back!

Dine in the air-conditioned restaurant where the attentive crew serves daily breakfast with hot and cold options and either lunch or dinner featuring local dishes, from salads to hot Mediterranean specialities, meats and fish. At the ‘Captain’s Dinner’ celebrate food from throughout the Adriatic. Moored in delightful ports overnight, on the remainder of the evenings you are free to dine where you wish.

Cabins are comfortably furnished and feature individually controlled air-conditioning, safe, wardrobe, dressing table, hairdryer, and bathroom with shower and toiletries. Free Wi-Fi is available on board.

Deck Plan

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