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8 of the best small ship cruises to Croatia and the Adriatic

Published 5th March 2023 in Cruise Advice By Edwina Lonsdale /cruise-news/cruise-advice/best-small-ship-cruises-croatia-adriatic

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The beautifully sheltered Adriatic Sea, running between the east coast of Italy and the coast of the former Yugoslavia and Greece, is a cultural gem, the coastline dotted with ancient city states, trading posts and bishoprics. Read on for our pick of the best small ship cruises to Croatia and the Adriatic.

En route to Venice , Phoenicians, Greeks and all the maritime traders of the ancient world plied these waters, bringing wealth and culture to settlements all along the coast. A Croatia cruise greets you with palaces, towers, churches and mighty walls that bear testament to a memorable past, whilst the myriad lavender scented islands, pretty bays and secluded beaches make this the perfect cruising destination. Here is our guide to the best cruises in Croatia and the Adriatic:

1. SeaDream Yacht Club

The intimate SeaDream I and II , each with just 114 fortunate guests on board, offer a laid back, al fresco and inclusive yacht experience on a number of Adriatic itineraries throughout the summer months. These voyages often sell out, so book early to make sure you don't miss out.

2. Windstar Cruises

For some of the best cruising in Croatia, Windstar's magnificent five-masted flagship Wind Surf, with a complement of 342 guests, explores the Adriatic on an expanded programme of itineraries visiting Croatia, Slovenia, Montenegro, Italy and Greece : relaxed and unpretentious, this is the perfect choice for easy-going exploration.

Ponant's chic and elegant little Le Lyrial, with just 244 guests, brings a touch of ooh la la to the Dalmatian Coast on its Adriatic cruises. Various itineraries are on offer, and we particularly like the seven-night voyage beginning in Venice, with its itinerary including gems such as Rovinj and Kotor.

4. Silversea

One of Silversea's newest ships, Silver Nova, arrived in 2023, and the perfect opportunity to test her out will be on one of Silversea's cruises to Croatia in August or September sailing to Athens, with lots of opportunity to explore ashore, and to get the measure of this lovely 728-guest vessel.

5. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

Last year Ritz-Carlton made its very first foray into cruising , bringing the same Ritz-Carlton land-based style to holidays at sea. Accommodating just 298 guests in spacious sea view suites, the intimate Evrima will be in the Adriatic this summer, the perfect combination of new ship and great itinerary.

6. Seabourn

Seabourn's sublime 604-guest Seabourn Encore sails between Athens and Venice on appealing seven-day itineraries . The company's close ties with UNESCO will make visits to the UNESCO sites along the way all the more exciting, and the ship itself is elegant, comfortable and relaxed.

7. Star Clippers

Romance abounds as you slide gracefully under full sail on the lovely 227-guest, five-masted Royal Clipper on a lovely 7-day Croatia and Montenegro itinerary. Pent-up demand means that voyages are filling up quickly, so book now for 2023. Heads will turn as you sail into the sunset as liberated as ever, with the salty sea breeze rushing through your hair.

8. Emerald Yacht Cruises

The newest in Emerald's fleet, the stylish 100-guest yacht Emerald Azzurra offers a range of intriguing itineraries visiting the Dalmatian Coast , the Venetian lagoon and beautiful Istria, a top destination for foodies in search of the tastiest local produce.

Edwina Lonsdale is Managing Director and together with husband Matthew, owner of Mundy Cruising. Most recently she's cruised on Windstar and has also sailed with Silversea, Seabourn, Regent Seven Seas, Crystal, SeaDream, Ponant, AmaWaterways and Aqua Expeditions. Her favourite destination is the Galapagos however she's also enjoyed cruises in the Mediterranean, Danube, Middle East, East Africa & Indian Ocean, Brahmaputra, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, the Mekong, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, the Caribbean and the Arctic. When she’s not travelling she loves reading, food and wine.

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Adriatic Cruise - Croatian Island Hopping 

Small ship cruises across the dalmatian islands and adriatic coastline.

Overview | Cruises

Adriatic Cruise Holidays - Croatian Island Hopping 

Our Adriatic cruise holidays are for those who want to explore the Dalmatian islands and Adriatic coastline.  Our Adriatic cruises offer both convenience and charm in stunning surroundings. Our Adriatic small ship cruise holidays continue to be one of our most popular Croatia holiday choices. Life on board is unhurried and relaxed, with plenty of time for sunbathing and swimming in the crystal-clear waters. Our fabulous Adriatic cruise holidays are the best way to see as much as possible without the inconvenience of packing up and changing hotels. Our Adriatic cruises really do offer you the best of both worlds - comfort and convenience combined with the freedom to explore. There is no better way to explore the Adriatic, whether you choose to start your cruise in Dubrovnik or in Split. We can arrange flights from the UK airport of your choice. 

Why Should I Choose A Small Ship Cruise

Small ship cruises in the Adriatic offer a more intimate and personalised travel experience compared to large cruise ships. Some of the benefits of small ship cruises include:

1.      Flexibility: Small ship cruises can access ports and locations that larger ships cannot, giving passengers the opportunity to visit unique and remote destinations not possible on larger vessels.

2.      Personalised experience: With fewer passengers, small ship cruises offer a more personalised experience. The crew can provide individual attention to each guest, and the itinerary can be customised to suit the group's preferences.

3.      Privacy: Small ship cruises allow for a more private and intimate experience. Passengers can enjoy the ship's amenities without the crowds and queues that are common on larger ships.

4.      Cultural immersion: Small ship cruises often offer opportunities to learn about the local culture and traditions of the destinations visited. This can include onboard lectures, local guides, and authentic cultural experiences.

5.      Eco-friendly: Small ships have a smaller environmental footprint than larger cruise ships. They consume less fuel and produce fewer emissions, making them a more sustainable choice for travellers who are concerned about their impact on the environment.

Overall, small ship cruises provide a unique and immersive travel experience that is well-suited for travellers who value intimacy, flexibility, and cultural immersion.

Adriatic Cruise Itineraries

There is no better way to explore Croatia's enchanting Dalmatian coast than on board one of these small ships which combine tradition with luxury.

The Croatian coastline is home to countless beautiful islands and historic cities. Foremost amongst these are Dubrovnik and Split, where most of our Adriatic cruises start or end. They are Croatia's most visited cities, and with excellent reason. During your cruise, you will drop anchor on a different island each evening. The choice of islands on your itinerary provides an enticing mix of history, natural beauty and sparkling Adriatic glamour. Enjoy the historic island of Korcula with its medieval castle, the pure, natural beauty of Mljet and its national park and the stylish and sophisticated island of Hvar, a regular celebrity haunt. In the evenings you can enjoy life on shore, exploring the cities or islands or simply chilling out in a harbour-front caf?. During the day you will spend around half of your time at sea, whilst the ship is sailing, and the rest of the time you will be able to swim in crystal-clear waters or explore on shore.We offer a number of different cruise itineraries, you will find details of our Dalmatian Highlights itinerary (Dubrovnik to Dubrovnik), Dalmatian Paradise itinerary (Split-Split) and many more.  These cruises take in the major cities and some of the most beautiful islands on the Adriatic.

Adriatic Cruise & Stay Holidays 

As with all of our holidays, you are in charge when it comes to our Adriatic cruise & stay holidays.

You can choose to spend as much time as you like in Croatia before or after your cruise. Our most popular cruise and stay holidays, combine three nights in either Dubrovnik or Split, with a seven night Adriatic cruise on one of our deluxe category ships.

Adriatic Cruise Vessels 

For those who want to make the most of their Turkish holiday, a two or three-centre holiday is the perfect option.

We have a wide range of luxury small ships, each of which is traditionally built with attractive features. Most are family-owned businesses, with local captains at the helm. You will benefit from personal service and enjoy excellent local cuisine on board. There are usually around 19 cabins (including one cabin for the ship manager) and each has well appointed sundecks and a restaurant. All the cabins offer luxurious accommodation, of an equivalent standard to a 4 plus or 5 star hotel room, and have an en suite shower and WC and air conditioning.   Luxury Category: These luxury ships are offers excellent standards.  These ships in our fleet with spacious air-conditioned cabins, a comfortable salon with lounge bar, outdoor covered sitting area as well as a sun deck with sun beds for all passengers and together with carefully chosen experienced crew and cruise manager, will make your cruise truly unique and unforgettable. Deluxe Category: We offer a memorable experience of fantastic and magical nature, spectacular scenery, marvellous food and great memories. The Deluxe Category ships are hold a 5 star rating, most of them are brand new and made by the latest standards. Modern cabins have A/C, LCD TV, safe deposit box, fire alarm, internal communication system between room and bar. Bathrooms are equipped with toilet, shower, wash basin, hairdryer, slippers, bathrobe and toiletries.

M/S Prestige,M/S Stella Maris,M/S Equator   - Supreme Category

K200- Split to Split  

MS Freedom Supreme Category

K270 - Dubrovnik to Split (One way)

Princess aloha - superior cruises.

K245- Dubrovnik to Dubrovnik 

Variety luxury ships.

1 Week Cruise & 1 Week Hotel

Information & dates, m/s prestige,m/s stella maris,m/s equator     -  supreme category.

Mini Cruise K200 SD 3 nights & Dubrovnik Stay - 4 nights 

Mini Cruise - K200 DS - 4 nights & Split Stay - 3 nights

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"I wanted to send you an e-mail now that we are back from our wonderful holiday. My wife and I wanted to express our sincere gratitude to you and the team at Diamond Star for arranging a truly unique style of holiday that we are still talking about to friends and family two weeks after we came home. The places we have visited, and the things we have seen were truly amazing, it will take a month or more to sort through our photos"  Andrew and June Welch - 24 Oct 2022

"Back from our holiday to Istanbul/Cappadocia what an awesome holiday. The hot air balloon was out of this world. Thank you Diamond Star for making it all possible special thanks to Nazan. I recommend this company to make your dreams come true."  Mrs Angela Bailey - 6 Oct 2022

"We arrived home from Fethiye on Monday, and would just like to thank you and Akin for planning an amazing trip. The gulet was fantastic and as usual, the Ece Saray Hotel was lovely. The staff there are some of the best we have come across, and the breakfasts were great. We are looking ahead to 2023 and were wondering if you could arrange a quote for a similar trip."  Sue and Mike Fedeczko - 28 September 2022

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Give him a ring to discuss your holiday in detail on 0330 390 0999 or send an email.

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MS Adriatic Pearl

MS Adriatic Pearl has been a popular vessel for many years. When first launched, it set high standards in service, cabin size and overall cruise comfort. Today, having just recently been fully refurbished, this first class motor yacht, with its elegant decor and modern amenities, is still the perfect ship to explore the Adriatic coastline. Bright and invitingly decorated cabins are spread over two decks: lower deck cabins have portholes, main deck cabins have windows. All cabins feature queen-size or twin beds, modern private facilities, full air-conditioning, and latest safety systems. The air-conditioned salon-restaurant is decorated in sleek timber – this is where you meas are served. Lounge bar area invites you to sink into its leather sofas and enjoy the magnificent views. Outside areas include a small covered terrace with tables and chairs located at the rear of the ship and a large sun deck, featuring sun-beds for all guests.

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Cruises to the Adriatic Sea

Make your way along island-specked coastlines on one of our Adriatic cruises and marvel at pine-fringed beaches, medieval castles, and terracotta-roofed towns. Experience vibrant, cosmopolitan communities, enchanting seaside villages, and a blend of fascinating cultures.

On cruises to the Adriatic Sea, you’ll enjoy this lovely mélange in the area’s varied cuisine, architecture, and history. Spend balmy summer days on one of the pristine beaches along the Adriatic coastline, or go hiking and wine tasting in the countryside. Uncover the historic sites of the region and wander through captivating city centers. From Italy to Croatia and Montenegro, this region of Europe has a wealth of cultural gems waiting to be discovered.

Adriatic Cruise Highlights

Forts and castles.

Immerse yourself in the history of the Adriatic by visiting its castles, forts, cathedrals, and palaces. In Dubrovnik, stroll along the chunky ramparts that have encircled the city for centuries.   In Split, wander through Diocletian’s Palace, still a living community, where the Roman emperor once escaped for rest and refuge. In the handsome city of Trieste, visit the Cathedral of San Giusto Martire, from where you’ll enjoy a breathtaking view of the Adriatic Sea. 

Sparkling Coasts

Discover the Adriatic’s breathtaking coastlines, where sparkling blue water, bleached white islands, and bottle-green pine forests await. From Dubrovnik, hop on the ferry to the wooded island of Lokrum, where you can swim off the rocks in crystal-clear water. In the Bay of Kotor, a deep fjord hemmed in by mountains, swim from small pebble beaches and kayak against a backdrop of tiny islands and coastal villages.

Culinary Delights

Treat your taste buds to new flavors during your cruise around the Adriatic. Taste crisp white Graševina wines, perfect with salty cheese and smoked ham. Try the famous black squid ink risotto and feast on plump peaches and sweet cherries, all grown locally. Enjoy fresh oysters from Ston, near Dubrovnik, and the wide variety of pasta dishes that reflect the proximity of Italy. Learn to drink coffee like a local, sitting in a café for hours while chatting with friends.

Featured Ports

Split, croatia.

The elegant old city of Split has a long history. At its heart is the magnificent Diocletian’s Palace—more a bustling self-contained community than a typical palace—built for the Roman emperor in 4 AD. Wander through the winding alleys and explore the vaulted substructures where musical performances are held. Join a wine tasting, and sample local smoked hams and cheese. Take a trip to Krka National Park, where waterfalls tumble over natural travertine platforms into blue-green pools.

Kotor, Montenegro

Nestled between the Bay of Kotor and the mountains of Mt. Lovcen, Kotor is a lovely old harbor town with a mountainous backdrop and a beautifully preserved medieval center. Explore the Old Town, where al-fresco cafés line sunlit squares. Step into the quirky Cats Museum, which is full of all things feline. Climb the ramparts that snake over the hills behind the city for awe-inspiring views over the rooftops and the long Bay of Kotor.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Between Italy and Montenegro, you’ll find the spectacular city of Dubrovnik, a heavenly coastal city in Croatia that has risen to the top of many travelers’ bucket lists. Walk around the historic old city walls, where you’ll see unparalleled views of Dubrovnik’s terracotta-roofed buildings and shimmering Adriatic beyond. Explore the area’s forts and monasteries, and take the aerial tram up craggy Mount Srd for the best view of the tangled streets of the old town.

Adriatic Cruise Itineraries

On a cruise to the Adriatic Sea with Celebrity Cruises, choose from seven to 11-night itineraries that depart from Barcelona, Rome, Athens, and Ravenna (Venice). Cruise between April and November and visit ports of call such as Dubrovnik, Trieste, Kotor, and Split.

Itineraries

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Why Cruise to the Adriatic With Celebrity Cruises

Discover the beauty of the region on an Adriatic Sea cruise with Celebrity Cruises. You’ll sail to picturesque towns and popular ports in supreme comfort while enjoying world-class service onboard. Join exciting shore excursions and spend your days learning about the area’s rich history, sampling its unique cuisine, and relaxing on the Adriatic coast’s famous beaches.

Once you’re back on board, enjoy balmy evenings in the Sunset Bar, book a massage at The Spa, or relax on your own private veranda and breathe in the fresh ocean breeze. At night, savor global cuisine at any of our restaurants and cap off the evening with a drink at one of our lively lounges, where you can listen to live music or dance under the stars.

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Compare the 17 Best Small Cruise Ship Lines

If you long for the open ocean but your heart sinks at the thought of all-night discos, thousand-seat dining rooms or congested Caribbean ports-turned-duty-free-shopping-malls, know this: You can enjoy a more intimate atmosphere, personalised setting and service, and destination-driven itineraries on a cruise. Not all cruise ships are vast, floating resorts. A burgeoning industry niche revolves around small vessels -- a wide-ranging group that includes super-luxury yachts, rugged expedition ships, and classic sailing schooners -- where passenger counts top out at closer to 300, rather than 3,000.

Before we launch into our picks for the best small ship cruises, let's answer one question: How do we define "small ship"? For this story, we're going to stick with vessels that accommodate fewer than 600 passengers. Now check out our small ship cruise comparison below.

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Best for expedition cruises, best for scenic nature cruises, best for ships with sails, best for yacht cruises, 1. lindblad expeditions.

Lindblad Expeditions , allied with National Geographic and Natural Habitat Adventures, offers soft-adventure cruises on a fleet of  10 capable vessels (as well as several charters like the Sea Cloud masted sailing ship and Lord of the Glens vessel that sails around the coast and islands of Scotland) that carry from 48 to 148 passengers. Serving more as base camps for exploring the world's waters, the line's ships cruise to all seven continents, including the Galapagos, South Pacific, Antarctica and the Arctic.

Topflight naturalists, historians, undersea specialists and expedition leaders accompany each trip; many itineraries also have National Geographic photographers or at least a Lindblad-National Geographic-certified photo instructor. Besides kayaks and Zodiacs for landings, ships are equipped with scientific tools like hydrophones (to listen in on marine mammals), underwater cameras and video microscopes.

The ships are comfortable, with some great touches like the local, organic foods used in meals and LEXspa treatment rooms for some well-deserved relaxation. (Endeavour even has a floating platform with a massage table for open-air treatments.)

2. Hurtigruten

Norwegian-based cruise line Hurtigruten plies the poles with 16 ships of varying sizes. The fleet's latest vessels -- the 530-passenger MS Fridtjof Nansen and MS Roald Amundsen -- are eco-friendly hybrid propulsion ships that reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by 20 percent. The ships feature suites and cabins with balconies, as well as ocean-view cabins. The largest Expedition Suites even have private outdoor hot tubs.

Don't let the trappings fool you though -- these cruises (indeed all Hurtigruten sailings) are all about nature. Vessels are equipped with small landing craft that take passengers to incredible locations. Passengers are an international mix, and the ships -- which operate in English and Norwegian -- add other languages, such as German or French, if needed.

3. Silversea

Silversea 's four-vessel expedition fleet (Silver Origin, Silver Cloud, Silver Explorer and Silver Wind) upholds the line's luxurious all-inclusive image. All passengers -- on ships accommodating 100 to 274 -- enjoy spacious suites, complete with butler service and high-end touches (Prastesi linens and amenities from Ferragamo, Bulgari or SebaMed).

Expedition cruising with Silversea means you'll visit a good mix of mainstream and less-crowded destinations (Galapagos, Polynesia, Micronesia and more) throughout the world's seven continents. Itineraries include complimentary shore excursions, such as Zodiac tours, nature hikes with certified guides, snorkelling and kayaking.

But what really sets Silversea expeditions apart is its level of access to experts like Dr. Birute Mary Galdikas, the "Jane Goodall of orangutans", mountaineer and explorer Haraldur Orn Olfasson and Dr. Chadden Hunter, a producer and director who has worked on natural history series including BBC's "Frozen Planet".

4. Quark Expeditions

Whether you want penguins or polar bears, Quark Expeditions , which specializes in Arctic and Antarctic journeys, is a great choice. The line's newest ship, Ultramarine, has a pair of onboard helicopters, and all six ships in the fleet include kayaking, cross-country skiing and mountaineering equipment (not to mention the ever-present Zodiacs). The line's 128-passenger expedition vessel, 50 Years of Victory, is one of the world's most powerful icebreakers and has nuclear-powered capabilities to go through nearly 10 feet of ice to make the voyage to the North Pole.

Quark's Antarctica trips often go longer and farther south, with more varied itineraries than other lines. Days at sea are full of lectures and presentations from scientific experts and, on some vessels, photographers.  Solo travelers can avoid a single supplement by opting for the Request-Share program where they will be matched with a same gender passenger to share a cabin.

Australian river cruise and tour company Scenic made its ocean cruising debut with the 228-passenger Scenic Eclipse offering all-inclusive itineraries to destinations including Antarctica, the Arctic, South America and the Baltic. The ship combines all the trappings of luxury with the thrill of expedition sailing. Standout features include two onboard helicopters and a submarine, Scenic Neptune, which can carry six passengers and dive to a depth of nearly 1,000 feet.

Onboard facilities include 10 dining experiences, including a Champagne bar and private dining room for just eight people, the Senses Spa and suites with private hot tubs. Water sports include an inflatable trampoline, paddle-boards and kayaks and the ship has Zodiacs for wildlife spotting and shore excursions.

6. Celebrity Cruises

Though better known for its big ships, Celebrity Cruises has been a leader in offering Galapagos itineraries on intimate vessels since it first launched the 98-passenger Celebrity Xpedition in 2004. Since then, two more small ships -- the intimate 16-passenger Celebrity Xploration and 100-passenger Celebrity Flora – have joined the fleet.

Celebrity's Galapagos cruise ships combine the line's modern style and focus on service and cuisine with a local, small ship ambience. Destination-oriented features are incorporated into the onboard experience; such as a performance highlighting Ecuadorian folklore on Xpedition and regionally inspired sustainable decor on Flora. The newest ship in the Galapagos fleet also features cabin automation and environmentally friendly systems, including anchorless technology (dynamic positioning) and in-room water filtration stations.

7. UnCruise Adventures

UnCruise Adventures offers adventure cruises  designed to appeal to people who might not normally cruise (hence the name). The line's nine vessels, holding between 22 and 90 passengers, sail to destinations including Alaska, Costa Rica and Panama, coastal Washington, Hawaii, Galapagos Islands, British Columbia and Mexico's Sea of Cortez. UnCruise doesn't do many typical port stops, preferring to pause in inlets and bays that offer maximum exposure to nature and wildlife.

Vessels come equipped with kayaks, paddle-boards, snorkelling equipment and hot tubs onboard for relaxing after a day of hiking or paddling. As the diverse fleet incorporates upscale expedition ships, yachts and even a replica turn-of-the-century steamboat, onboard offerings vary. Expect thoughtful premium appointments and amenities throughout, though, with fitness areas, lounges, libraries and mealtimes highlighting gourmet, locally sourced cuisine and fine wines and microbrews.

8. International Expeditions

International Expeditions , offering passengers soft adventure, small-group journeys with a focus on nature, runs cruises to the Galapagos on the 32-passenger Evolution). Step out onto the sun deck  or relax in Evolution's hot tub to enjoy the passing scenery, when not partaking in immersive shoreside experiences anchored on natural and cultural encounters.

The onboard atmosphere is informal, and trips are more focused on excursions and lectures led by naturalist guides and expedition leaders than on many shipboard diversions (though you can expect onboard comforts like air-conditioning and well-prepared, locally inspired fare). Partake in active excursions like or snorkelling, swimming and hiking.

9. Star Clippers

For the tall-ship enthusiast, there's nothing quite like sailing under a starry or sunny sky, powered by the bluster of ocean winds. If you want to float along with the wind while exploring less-travelled ports in the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Asia, Star Clippers is tough to beat. The fleet's three vessels -- flagship 227-passenger Royal Clipper and 170-passenger twins Star Clipper and Star Flyer -- are some of the fastest clipper ships ever built in modern times. Feel the sails, catch the breeze,  visit the captain and officers in the open bridge, or climb high in the rigging.

Onboard, passengers don't adhere to rigid timetables as they might on more conventional cruise ships, and the evening dress code is always elegantly casual (with the exception of themed evenings, like a pirate night when passengers have the option to wear fancy dress). Water sports are also a major component of each tall ship sailing cruise, with complimentary snorkelling, kayaking, sailing and other sea-based activities offered directly from the ship.

10. Windstar

Upscale line Windstar -- sailing to ports throughout Alaska, Asia, Canada and New England, Europe, the Caribbean, Central America and the South Pacific -- doesn't offer traditional masted sailing ships but does deliver a similarly pleasing aesthetic via its trio of yachts equipped with sails. The ships are the 148-passenger Wind Spirit and Wind Star, each with four masts and six sails, and the 342-passenger five-masted Wind Surf, which is the world's largest sailing vessel.

The result of this pleasing "motorized sailing yacht" experience is that passengers can revel in the romanticism of sailing, without having to sacrifice amenities. While touting plenty of plush yacht-worthy appointments to properly pamper guests, the line doesn't get too stuffy: "Casual elegance" is the designated dress code, and that idea permeates the onboard vibe. Passengers leave ties and formalwear at home in favour of country-club casual sportswear, day and night.

One of our favourite features -- available on each of Windstar's vessels -- is the water sports platform, with its range of complimentary activities  such as snorkelling, wind-sailing, paddle-boarding and even water skiing).

11. Island Windjammers

Island Windjammers focuses more on the joys of sailing than on over-the-top shipboard amenities. The line offers sailings in the Windward Islands from Grenada on the 10-passenger Diamant; its 24-passenger schooner and 26-passenger Vela offers a mix of both. Other itineraries include the French West Indies and the British Virgin Islands. Look out for special themed cruises like Solo Sojourns (for those traveling alone), rum cruises, pirates and mermaid Week, and Taste of the (Caribbean) Islands foodie sailing. At other times Vela has two single cabins and single travellers can be paired up with a same-sex cabin mate to avoid paying a supplement.

Swimsuits, cover-ups and T-shirts are typical daytime attire on these windjammer cruises, and dress for dinner and evenings remains refreshingly casual. Cabins come with air-conditioning, and all but two offer portholes and private bathrooms. When not bunking down or out exploring in port, head out for some sunbathing or alfresco dining on deck, or retreat to the indoor dining room or lounge area.

12. SeaDream Yacht Club

No yacht? No problem! Family-owned SeaDream Yacht Club offers the next best thing with its twin cruising yachts, SeaDream I and SeaDream II, offering sophistication sans the pretense for a maximum of 112.

Onboard, passengers can enjoy the doting of a polished 95-person crew; locally inspired and international cuisine served up on deck or in an elegant dining salon; and included-in-the-rates wine, Champagne and cocktails. Onboard decorum reflects an "elegant casual" dress code. Look out for exciting extras like the option to sleep under the stars (on deck-side Balinese loungers) and a water sports platform with complimentary equipment  including sailboats, paddle-boards and kayaks.

Mediterranean, Baltic and Caribbean SeaDream cruises incorporate hidden-away ports and crew-led activities, which are included in the pricing.

Although Ponant 's ownership has changed thrice in the span of its three-decade existence, the line has managed to remain true to its roots: a strong French influence and a five-star feel. Ponant's "French touch" features a French crew, a French way of living (French cuisine and wines) and prestigious partnerships, including interior design by Jean Philippe Nuel, spa products by Sothy's, Fragonard's signature perfumes and Pierre Frey fabrics.

Carrying 32 to 264 passengers, its fleet consists of four mega-yachts (L'Austral, Le Boreal, Le Lyrial and Le Soleal), six mid-size yachts (Le Champlain, Le Laperouse, Le Bougainville, Le Dumont-D'Urville, Le Bellot and Le Jacques Cartier) and one small-capacity yacht (Le Ponant) sailing Mediterranean, Adriatic, Caribbean and other exotic itineraries. Ponant's all-inclusive fares (some shore excursions, drinks, internet and gratuities) are competitive and provide high value for money.

14. Crystal Cruises

The first of its kind to join the Crystal Cruises ' fleet, the 62-passenger Crystal Esprit is a luxury yacht with multiple restaurants offering top-notch cuisine, a gym, a spa and an expansive sun deck with a plunge pool and lounge. Its superb crew is consistent with the line's reputation for attention to passengers and detail. Most cabins on Crystal Esprit are a comfortable 280 square feet, with a king bed, lots of high-tech toys and lavish marble bathrooms. Additionally, every cabin comes with 24-hour butler service and room service.

The ship sails destination-intensive itineraries predominantly in the Caribbean, Adriatic and Middle East. Activities on shore -- most of which are included in the cruise fares -- focus on kayaking, cycling, swimming, snorkelling and hiking, with a smattering of cultural and culinary tours. The ship's marina has a swimming platform and offers water toys, such as paddleboards, Jet Skis, water skis, snorkelling equipment and kayaks. Esprit's most unusual feature is its three-person submarine (tours at additional cost).

15. Paul Gauguin Cruises

Sailing exclusively in French Polynesia, the 332-passenger Paul Gauguin offers an experience that is both luxurious and immersive. In 2019 the line was acquired by upscale Ponant, although both lines operate under separate management. Life onboard reflects the rich cultural heritage of the South Pacific islands through local entertainers and storytellers. Additionally, the Moana Explorer program offers hands-on interactive and fun learning for children and teens.

The vessel has spacious cabins -- 70 percent with private balconies -- along with three dining venues, a spa and water sports marina with activities including kayaking, paddle-boarding and diving. Cruises visit the line's private island of Motu Mahana, off the coast of Taha'a, where passengers are greeted with food, drink and live music. Paul Gauguin also has an exclusive beach retreat in Bora Bora.

16. Emerald Yacht Cruises

Built in response to the growing interest in small ship cruising, Emerald Yacht Cruises is the ocean arm of river cruise operator Emerald Waterways. Its first "super yacht", Emerald Azzurra, has 50 cabins and suites; 88 percent with balconies or terraces. Passengers can relax on the sun deck and take a dip in the infinity-style pool or head to the marina platform to enjoy various water sports. Onboard facilities include a spa, gym and hair salon.

Sailing in the Adriatic, Mediterranean and Red Sea, Emerald has set out to mirror its river cruise program by providing authentic experiences, such as a visit to a market followed by a cookery class, along with EmeraldACTIVE shore excursions including guided hikes and bike rides to provide an alternative and more energetic perspective of destinations visited.

17. Variety Cruises

The closest you can get to the feeling of having your own private yacht is to sail on one of Variety Cruises' three motorized sailboats -- Absolute King, Monte Carlo and Obsession -- where just 10 passengers are looked after by a crew of six. The rest of fleet comprises eight small vessels, including the 71-passenger flagship Variety Voyager and masted Panorama and Panorama II which cater for 49.

Sailing to worldwide destinations that include Greece, Cuba, the Seychelles, Costa Rica, Panama, West Africa and Cape Verde, the vessels moor in secluded bays and private marinas that are inaccessible to larger ships. The onboard vibe is casual and low-key, with very personal levels of service and the opportunity to dine on deck and swim and snorkel off the back of the ships.

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Enjoy 7 nights on board MS Kleopatra from Split to Split in your own air conditioned superior private cabin with private bathroom. Each day you have breakfast and lunch as well as welcome dinner. During the day you can swim in the sea and relax in the sun and every night you will stay in a different harbour and town. This is the perfect way to feel and enjoy Croatia!

There are no future departures for this trip at this stage.

We embark in Split at 13:00h, with a welcome dinner in the evening and a night’s accommodation on board. (D)

Stop in Bol, a small town on Island Brac, with an optional swim at the Golden Cape if weather permits, enjoy the 530 m long golden pebble beach said to be the best in Croatia. It is unique in that it changes shape and position depending on the winds. Return to your boat for lunch, then head to Hvar. Hvar is one of the most popular islands in the Adriatic and a meeting point for the international jet set. The “Croatian Madeira” is also one of the longest islands stretching along the shores of Croatia. A sightseeing tour of Hvar town shows you the first public theatre in Europe (older than Shakespeare’s theatre in the UK) and many more historical sites. Your evening is free to explore Hvar on your own. Note: Due to the limited capacity of the Hvar harbor (during peak season in July and August) port of call can be substituted for Stari Grad/Jelsa. In that case, transfer by bus will be organized to and from Hvar Town. (B,L)

Before breakfast set sail for Korčula, with a swimming stop in one of the pristine bays and lunch onboard. Early afternoon arrival to Korčula, thought to be the birthplace of the famous explorer Marco Polo. Take a walking tour through its narrow, cobbled streets full of history. Your evening is free to discover the town and enjoy dinner on your own at one of the many restaurants. (B,L)

In the morning sail to Dubrovnik, “Pearl of the Adriatic”, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Upon arrival in Dubrovnik, you will enjoy a guided tour of the magnificent Old Town with a panoramic bus ride above the Old Town. You will have rest of the day at leisure to explore the Old town, to take the Cable car to Srđ Mountain or a boat ride to Lokrum island. Overnight in Dubrovnik. (B,L)

Today we turn our compass back north, with plenty of time for a morning swim along the sail. As you dine, set sail for Mljet Island. Mljet National Park encompasses five types of forest, many species of birds, and two deep lakes, Veliko Jezero (Big Lake) and Malo Jezero (Small Lake). This lovely island was supposedly a favourite holiday spot for the Greek hero Ulysses! Your evening is free in Mljet. (B,L)

Take a break for a swim during your morning cruise. Continue sailing through lunch, arriving this afternoon in Pučišća, a beautiful little town on the island of Brac. Tonight, enjoy captain’s dinner onboard. (B,L,D)

We depart for Omiš before breakfast, it’s fortresses are silent stone reminders of the power and might of the infamous pirates who once made their homes and fortunes here. You will have a possibility to book a short walking tour, followed by boarding a small boat and sail into Cetina River Canyon, a protected nature area, continuing to Radman Mills for a local specialty snack. After visiting Omiš set sail to Split with a stop along the way to swim, cool off and relax, if weather permits, with lunch onboard. In the late afternoon, we arrive at Split to take a guided tour of the historical city centre, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.Your evening is free in Split. (B,L)

After breakfast, it’s time to disembark. (B)

M/S KLEOPATRA was launched in 2015 and has been updated several times since. She is 40 metres long and carries a maximum of 40 passengers. 

With its perfect size, maneuvering abilities and its elegant 19 cabins our newly built, yacht-like ship will satisfy your refined expectations for a comfortable cruise along the Adriatic Coast.

Construction material is steel with mahogany and iroko wood on decks.

She carries an experienced crew of 6 (Captain, two waitress, chef, two sailors) to look after you on board, and provide your breakfasts and lunches, using a lot of fresh local produce, and catering for a range of dietary requirements.

All guest cabins are very comfortable, fully air conditioned, with independent ventilation system for fresh air all the time, conveniently designed with modern private en suites, toilet and shower in cabin. All cabins are equipped with beds in size 200×90 cm or 200×180 cm with independent air-conditioned control board, Satellite LCD TV in cabins, designed wallboards, working table and chair, couch, mirror, night lamps, safe deposit box, radio, hair dryer, 220 V electric supply, lifejacket, large wardrobe and luggage space under bed, as well as the latest safety & fire alarm and sound system for notifications of a cruise manager or group leader.

Standard cabins have two portholes and dual ventilation system while main deck cabins have two windows, smaller in bathroom and larger cabin window.  Cabins are sound-proof and have fire-proof door.

Most of the cabins can have a twin or double bed configuration and two have space for a third bed on the floor (not a bunk bed).

7 nights cruise from Split to Dubrovnik and back to Split Captain`s dinner Buffet breakfast daily 6 lunches with 4 courses starting with the 4 course welcome dinner on Day 1 Unlimited water from dipenser Complimentary fresh fruits available daily Professional Cruise Manager throughout Luggage handling Whisper technology enhanced touring Free Wi-Fi on board City tours of Split, Hvar, Korčula, and Dubrovnik (Dubrovnik with transfers and panoramic photo stop) included in the price

From Venice to Opatija, Plitvice Lakes to Split 2024

£870.00, 8 days from contact us, find your favorite region, similar trips.

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Pure Luxury: Tauck Small Ship Cruising on the Adriatic

It was a perfect sail away. We were with an American tour company—on board a small, elegant French cruise ship—sailing slowly along the Grand Canal of Venice with the iconic buildings of St. Mark’s Square glowing in the sunset.

We were about to sail east and south into the Adriatic Sea with visits to the Dalmatian coasts of Croatia and Montenegro. Along with 215 fellow guests from the United States, Australia and Canada we were looking forward to a week filled with historic medieval communities, friendly people, stunning topography, thriving vineyards and olive groves plus ancient Roman landmarks.

New England-based Tauck organizes land, river and ocean tours in more than 70 countries. Small ship cruising is one of its newest ventures.

The company, which started in 1925, is unique because virtually all extras are included and all tours are accompanied by a team of dedicated Directors who work closely with small groups of guests and find the best local guides.

Sailing on Le Lyrial, a luxury yacht

Our ship, leased by Tauck, was Le Lyrial, the newest vessel in the growing French cruise line, Ponant. Built more like a luxury yacht than a traditional cruise ship, it features a stylish, modern interior with muted color tones of cream, tan and grey.

The atrium includes a large, imaginative mobile. The standard rooms are small but very comfortable with a sophisticated TV/movie system, excellent bedside reading lights and high-end Hermes toiletries in the bathroom. Almost all the rooms have a private balcony but many, like ours, have a solid steel slab beneath the handrail making viewing from the balcony chairs impossible. The Hotel Manager told us it was a design flaw, planned to make the exterior of the ship look sleeker.

But there was no design flaw in the spacious lounges, large comfortable theatre (with a resident troupe of very fine dancers) and twin dining areas – the main restaurant on Deck 2 and the more casual buffet area at the rear of Deck 6 (including many tables by the outdoor pool).

Food, in the French style, was usually excellent and the fine complimentary wines at lunch and dinner were of high quality.

The cheeses, both French and local, were especially good.  The chefs made a point of seeking fresh fish in several of the Adriatic ports and we remember one memorable lunch of very fresh sea bream, grilled whole. Delicious.

Our pre-cruise adventure with Tauck

For this tour, Tauck offered all guests two complimentary pre-cruise nights in a canal-side hotel in Venice, a surprise gondola ride through the canals (with accompaniment by an accordionist and singer), plus an excellent tour of several top attractions in St. Mark’s Square, including the Doge’s Palace.

On Day 2 we all took a boat ride to the Venetian Lagoon islands of Murano (famous for its creative glassware) and Burano, a lace-making centre with colorful fishermen’s houses.

Splendid shore excursions

The major destinations of this cruise were the countries of Croatia and Montenegro, two of the seven nations that constituted the former republic of Yugoslavia. The region is a complicated crossroads between Eastern and Western Christendom and between historically Christian and historically Islamic territories. Some tensions continue in the region but tourism is important to the economy and we always felt welcome.

A major benefit of touring with Tauck is the wide range of tours available in each port – all complimentary. Our first stop was the ancient walled city of Korcula, Croatia, reputed to be the childhood home of Marco Polo. Guests could choose among a city walking tour, hiking on nearby mountain trails or kayaking in crystalline waters.

With our interest in food and wine, we chose a visit to the 100-year-old Bire family estate and winery. It was our first taste of Croatian wines and we were impressed, especially with the wine made from Plavac Mali grapes, similar to American Zinfandel. This wine tasting (and most other ones) was accompanied by traditional prosciutto, marinated sardines, fresh bread, olives and cheese.

Before we returned to the ship, Tauck surprised everyone with one of its unannounced but very special “extras”. At a local theatre, the community band accompanied a traditional, 15th-century Moreska sword dance with twenty or more red and black-clad warriors, representing good and evil, fighting over the affection of a maiden.

Split (population, 175,000) is the second largest city in Croatia and has seen many regimes over its 1600-year history. Again, Tauck offered an array of intriguing excursions including biking, sea kayaking, a boat ride on a river between towering limestone cliffs, touring by bus or just joining a guided walk through the old city. Most tours include the 4 th  Century Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, used as a location for “The Game of Thrones.”

Dubrovnik is one of the most beautiful cities on the planet.

Its well-preserved stone wall, ramparts and cobbled streets were started in the 10 th  century and are key reasons why UNESCO has designated the whole walled city a World Heritage Site. Tauck small ship cruising offers several walking tours but also includes a cable car ride for a splendid overview, more kayaking, a visit to local villages and wineries plus the Maritime Museum. We were lucky enough to include a visit to the Karaman Winery, winner of several major international awards, especially for its Malvasia wine.

To reach the harbor city of Kotor in Montenegro (literally, Black Mountain), Le Lyrial sailed several miles up a picturesque fjord that could be mistaken for Scandinavia. The fortified town of 14,000 has kept its Middle Ages feel and is a delight to explore by foot.

Several boat trips were offered by Tauck (including one to the famous Our Lady of the Rocks island church) but we chose the “Gastronomy Experience” where just eight of us visited a local home where the proprietor (a cookbook author) and her husband prepared a traditional local meal of  prosciutto, cheese and sardines followed by potato gnocchi  (she showed us how to make it) and tender beef. A soft meringue dessert with forest berries was followed by homemade cherry brandy and grappa. Our hosts even sang us a traditional song as she played the piano.

Before we left Montenegro, a troupe of Boka local folk dancers in elaborately embroidered costumes entertained us in the ship’s theatre. Another extra touch that makes Tauck so special.

Heading north again we stopped at the long, slim island of Hvar, Croatia, first established as a Greek Colony around 385BC. It remains a center for lavender and several stands are set up to sell the fragrant product.

The village of Stari Grad was full of interesting shops and roving entertainers (including one with an unusual goatskin bagpipe).

On our last day of Tauck small ship cruising, we stopped at two communities on the northern Croatian peninsula of Istria. The huge, first-century Roman amphitheater in Pula was remarkable, a slightly smaller version of the Rome Coliseum. It once held 23,000 Romans and is still used for concerts including past performances by Pavarotti and Leonard Cohen.

The peninsula is also a major source of olive oil so we visited the Chiavalon family farm, producer of some of the world’s best olive oil. We naturally had an extensive tasting of the fresh grassy and spicy oil. It was so good we couldn’t resist buying a bottle.

Our last stop was in the quaint town of Rovinj, a community with tangles of cobbled streets that felt very Italian. In fact, because of its close proximity to Venice (just across a narrow part of the Adriatic), the village has two official languages, Croatian and Italian. The area is renowned for its truffles (black truffles were in season) and one Tauck tour took guests on a truffle hunt. We’re told it was outstanding.

A final toast to Tauck small ship cruising

Our tour included Croatia’s best known sparkling wine producer, Misal, with bubbly made the traditional French way from Malvasia and Pinot Noir grapes. We were amazed at the quality of its brut, sec and semi-sec varieties. Along with the other guests on this tour, it gave us a chance to make a final toast to Tauck small ship cruising and a remarkable Dalmatian Coast cruise.

Tauck Tours and Small Ship Cruises

**John and Sandra Nowlan are food and travel writers based in Halifax. All photo credits: John and Sandra Nowlan

Disclosure:  The Nowlans were guests of Tauck small ship cruising but any opinions expressed in this post are their own.

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Croatia has such a fabulous coastline to explore by — and a small ship is the best way to get into those smaller ports. We’ve cruised with Ponant, and they know how to cruise in French style. Le Lyrial sounds perfect for cruising Croatia!

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Ekorna > Small Ship Cruises in Croatia

Small Ship Cruises in Croatia

Enjoy the views of the impossible blue Adriatic Sea on board our small ship cruises in Croatia . This kind of island hopping is a great way of exploring the gorgeous Dalmatian islands and coastal towns without having to change hotels. In these typical Croatian ships function as boutique hotels with capacity for up to 40 passengers, who are accommodated in 19 cabins. Each has a private bathroom and is air-conditioned. Forget about the large and massive cruise ships where you have to share space with hordes of other noisy travellers. What we offer is a more private cruise experience . There are six crew members on board taking care of your comfort and safety.

To make your browsing easier, we have divided all cruise itineraries into two main categories :

STANDARD CRUISES

LUXURY CRUISES      

The range of small cruise ships in our offer is truly wide. They are divided into ➨ five categories (from modest traditional wooden ships to very luxurious vessels). They all include half board service (breakfast and lunch or dinner). Additional services included (guided tours, transfers arrival and departure, wine tasting, …) depend on a chosen category.

Most of our Adriatic cruises have regular departures every Saturday between May and October, but some also leave ports on Wednesday or Sunday. Majority focuses on the popular southern Dalmatian islands (Hvar, Brač , Mljet, …), but we also offer cruises to less known northern islands ( Kvarner Bay and Kornati archipelago ).

Check out departures from the following ports:

➨ Dubrovnik ➨ Split  (and nearby Omiš and Trogir ) ➨ Zadar ➨ Opatija (or Rijeka and Poreč )

Below is the list of all small ship cruises in Croatia that we offer. We realise there are a lot of them and you might feel a bit confused. Don’t worry, email us at ➨ [email protected] and our friendly agents will be happy to help you. Let us know when would you like to take a cruise and your approximate budget range. We will check the availability and find the one that most suits your criteria.

With us you can book individual cabins or charter the whole ship.   In case you are travelling with a group of friends or family members, you can also choose to book a private gulet or a sailboat .

In addition to regular itineraries we also offer a whole range of special Adriatic cruises ( hiking  and  biking cruises of different difficulty levels, relaxing yoga  and  gastronomy cruises, gay cruises  and  party boats for young crowds). There’s something for everyone!

Dalmatian islands from Split

LUXURY CRUISE

• from 1.750,00 €
• every Saturday from April to October

Dalmatian islands: Split – Dubrovnik

Dalmatian islands: Dubrovnik – Split

Kvarner Bay from Opatija

• from 2.500,00 €
• 6/7/2024 13/7/2024

Pure Nature Cruise

STANDARD CRUISE

• from 1.100,00 €
• 6/7/2024 20/7/2024 27/7/2024

Colors of Dalmatia from Dubrovnik

Explore the wonderful Dalmatian islands  on this luxury cruise departing from Dubrovnik. Enjoy the crystal clear waters offered by the Adriatic Sea , discover its historical cities, its wild nature and the exquisite gastronomy of the region. Join our fairy tale adventure.

• from 1.300,00 €

Colours of Dalmatia from Split

We invite you to explore the Dalmatian islands on a small ship cruise through Croatia on this luxury cruise from Split . Discover the peace and beauty of its bays and crystal clear waters. During the cruise, you will also be able to visit the medieval cities like Dubrovnik , walk its narrow streets and taste the delicious Dalmatian food and local wines.

• from 1.430,00 €
• 15/6/2024 22/6/2024 29/6/2024

Colours of Dalmatia: Dubrovnik – Split

Come meet the beauties of the Dalmatian Islands ! For 8 days you will enjoy a luxury cruise, discovering Dalmatian peace, architecture, gastronomy and culture. On the luxury cruise from Dubrovnik to Split you will pass through several islands and enjoy swimming in the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic.

• from 1.550,00 €
• Every Saturday from May to October

Colours of Dalmatia: Split – Dubrovnik

Colours of Dalmatian Nature

Croatia from a ship is beautiful, especially in the summer. We invite you to visit the natural parks , intact nature and the medieval towns of Dalmatia. On this luxury cruise of Croatian national parks with totally different route from the others, you will discover the beautiful corners that will leave you open-mouthed.

• from 1.760,00 €
• 15/6/2024 22/6/2024 6/7/2024

Dalmatian islands from Dubrovnik to Split

During this one way route, you will get to know the most beautiful points of the Dalmatian Coast , including both pearls of the Adriatic: Dubrovnik and Split. Discover the beautiful bays , enjoy the local cuisine , live an authentic Dalmatian experience and most importantly – see the coast from another angle.

• from 850,00 €

Dalmatian islands from Split to Dubrovnik

Visit one of the pearls of the Adriatic and enjoy the Dalmatian islands . This way you will get to know the best of Croatia and have an unforgettable experience. For a typical Croatian boat vacation, you need nothing more than a pair of t-shirts and a swimsuit and so you explore the islands. This standard cruise around south Croatia departs from Split and docks in small coastal towns and islands.

Kvarner Islands from Opatija

Cruise Kvarner islands with us in a small ship through the charming northern part of the Adriatic Sea . The only thing you need for this trip is, a couple of shirts and a swimsuit, to spend 8 unforgettable days. You will visit beautiful places with a crystal-clear sea and beautiful Croatian beaches and enjoy Mediterranean food, both on board and in the cities.

Dalmatian Islands from Dubrovnik

Join an adventure on a luxury boat on one of our best small ship Adriatic cruises. Sail off from Dubrovnik and visit the Island of Mljet, where Odyssey was trapped for many years. You will also pass through the Island of Korčula , where the famous Marco Polo was born and many other dalmatian islands .

• from 1.500,00 €

Croatian islands: Dubrovnik – Opatija

Experience the journey between Dubrovnik , the medieval city surrounded by walls, and Opatija which is many times compared to the French Riviera. Take this amazing Adriatic cruise on a small ship which includes several typical Croatian food and wine tastings and visits to places that will give you a feeling of traveling back in time.

• from 2.249,00 €
• selected Saturdays from June to September

Croatian islands: Opatija – Dubrovnik

• from 2.250,00 €

Colours of Adriatic from Dubrovnik

Embark on our wonderful Dalmatian islands cruise and enjoy the crystal clear waters offered by the Adriatic Sea, discover its historical cities, its wild nature and the exquisite gastronomy of the region. Join our fairy tale adventure.

• from 1.900,00 €

Northern Jewels of Dalmatia

Explore northern Croatia with us! This North Dalmatia cruise starts in Split , the historical city and very similar to the French Riviera, continues exploring the famous waterfalls of Krka NP , the Blue Cave and the city of Zadar located in the Roman ruins, ending the trip in Split.

• Every Wednesday from May to September

Choose the perfect small ship cruise in Croatia from the list above. If the large amount of options makes you confused, we suggest to contact our friendly agents. They will be happy to advise you and find available cabins for you. Just let us know when would you like to take a cruise in Croatia, how many travellers are there and what is your approximate budget range.

These small ship cruises can be easily combined with different land trips in Croatia , Slovenia or any other Balkan country for that matter. Let us know your wishes adn we will prepare the best tailor-made itinerary to the Balkans just for you.

for more info on small ship cruises in Croatia

Our destinations

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Adriatic Sea Small Ship Cruise Tours & Trips

116 adriatic sea trips. tours from 51 tour companies. 302 reviews. 4.6/5 avg rating..

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Adriatic Cruise

Dalmatian Coast, Dubrovnik, Sarajevo, Sibenik, Split

• Opportunity to see the UNESCO World Heritage Sites Mostar, Trogir and Dubrovnik impressive Cities
• Experience the cruise to Sibenik
• Explore Hvar, city which is one of the largest and oldest in Dalmatia
• Enjoy a panoramic city tour of Sarajevo including the Parliament Buildings
• Discover Frankfurt

50 plus, Cultural, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Small Ship Cruise, Transformative

What travelers are saying

"I went on a Grand Tour of Italy with my husband and we had the trip of our lives. Senior Discovery Tours took care of everything so we just got to enjoy ourselves. Would highly reccomend!"

Venice & the Dalmatian Coast 2024

Dubrovnik, Split, Venice

• historic and richly resilient
• Croatia's Dalmatian Coast has reemerged among Europe's hottest holiday destinations.... offering golden sand beaches
• vineyards bucolic with lemon trees
• olives and vines

"Sad to see a once good tour company stumble and fall into mediocrity. That’s Tauck post-Covid. My May 2023 tour of Normandy, Brittany and the Loire Valley was done on the cheap by Tauck, yet cost me thousands of dollars extra as a solo traveler on a special small-group tour. 

5-star hotels switched to 3 and 4 (without any compensation or explanation)… many more meals “on your own”… lots of “self-guided” tours of museums and chateaux and castles we knew nothing about… airline quality “rubber chicken” dinners, not in hotel restaurants, but in sad and isolated business convention spaces… poorly-trained newer Tour Directors (like the one on this tour) with limited experience traveling outside her tiny Canadian village or dealing with people from diverse backgrounds. She even confessed that this was a second gig job that took her away from her own business back home! You get what Tauck pays for, but unfortunately, not what YOU pay for. 

Speaking to a “Guest Relations” agent was comically pointless. She tried to make everything my fault, which I now understand is par for the course with the “new” post-Covid Tauck. Please reconsider spending huge amounts of your hard-earned money on a tour company that has lost its way and no longer delivers."

Venice & the Dalmatian Coast 2025

All Adriatic Sea , expedition cruises, self guided adventures and vacation packages. Find the best guided and expert planned vacation and holiday packages. Read more about Adriatic Sea

Venice & the Dalmatian Coast 2021

Croatia, Dubrovnik, Montenegro, Split, Venice

• Croatia's Dalmatian Coast has reemerged among Europe’s hottest holiday destinations.... offering golden sand beaches

Croatia Island Hopper

Croatia, Dalmatian Coast, Dubrovnik, Hvar Island, Korcula Island, Split

• Explore enchanting town of Korcula Island
• Visit Mljet National Park
• A typical village party with Croatian delicacies in Kuna
• Visit a famous beaches in Dalmatia

Cultural, Family Friendly, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Overland Journeys, Small Ship Cruise

"We particularly wanted to do this trip because of the abundance of wildlife we expected to encounter and selected this ship because they offered the kayaking experience. Overall, the weather was very good. Most people seemed like minded and were there for the adventurous experience. Accommodations Review They upgraded our cabin and we were very pleased with the amount of space and the amenities in the room. We appreciated the twin windows and being able to see humpbacks diving from our cabin. It was kept very clean and it was a treat to have our bed turned down with chocolates on the pillow each night. Meals Review We liked the variety and the quality of the food. There was always something new to try. The dining room staff was very professional and personable. Crew & Guides Review Solon was our Principal Trip Leader. He was incredibly professional and it seemed like he was constantly working to maximize the encounters with wildlife and scenery, taking advantage of all the weather opportunities and going to places that they don't often go. He worked very closely with the captain who was very accommodating and caring about us having a memorable voyage. Aymie and Andrew were our kayak guides. We went out to kayak 10 different times and were able to get to know both of them well. They worked hard to keep us safe and well informed. They made sure that we didn't miss out on any land excursions. We've had quite a few kayak guides over the years that we've paddled and we loved these two. Marla was the marine biologist aboard the ship. She was very enthusiastic and had a passion for marine mammals that was infectious. We loved listening to her presentations and looked forward to hearing her voice on the PA saying that there was another whale sighting. Colin, the geologist aboard the ship, was very knowledgeable and able to make difficult subjects understandable to the passengers. Itinerary Review The trip far, far, far, far, far, far exceeded our expectations. I had one "far" in the sentence when we left South Georgia Island after seeing 250,000 King Penguins at St. Andrews Point and added the second when we saw blue whales on two different days. The third "far" was added when we saw hundreds of whales for 6 hours along the iceberg, A68a. I added another "far" when we kayaked for over an hour with humpbacks all around and another "far" when minke whales were all around the kayaks the next day. The last "far" was added the day we didn't paddle since a leopard seal was all around the kayaks and then an orca came close. We had so many incredible experiences that we could never experience all of them in the same trip again. The guides told us that the close encounters that we had didn't happen very often and that we were very lucky that they all happened on our trip. The only thing that we didn't like was portions of the Drake Passage when it was a tad rough, but that experience gives us something to talk about. Transportation Review We made our transportation arrangements through another travel agency. Traveler Advice Make sure that you take sea sickness meds. Take advantage of every opportunity to see wildlife."

11 Night Adriatic & Greek Isles Voyage

Athens, Dubrovnik, Ephesus, Mykonos, Santorini

• Enjoy the cruise Azamara Journey
• Explore Greece
• Explore the marble streets or surrounding countryside of Dubrovnik
• Visit to Santorini and Mykonos
• Explore the grand monuments of Ephesus

Cultural, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Small Ship Cruise

"We love the Azamara Quest! Very friendly and Great food!"

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Croatian Jewels

Dalmatian Coast, Dubrovnik, Hvar Island, Korcula Island, Split

• Explore Dubrovnik city
• Enjoy cruising the M/S Princess Aloha ship
• Visit to St. Marks Cathedral which is believed to be the first gospel writer
• Enjoy the beauty of Cetina River

"The trip to Israel was truly AMAZING...thanks to all yours and HOMERIC TOURS efforts. Our guide was a tireless fountain of information and he was constantly aiming to please. Thank you again and starting to think of another HOLY LAND trip soon."

Croatia & Adriatic Cruise

Diocletian's Palace, Dubrovnik, Hvar Island, Plitvice Lakes National park, Split, Zagreb

• Sail through Korcula is the supposed birthplace of the famed explorer Marco Polo
• Explore the ightseeing tour will take us through the historic Upper Town. See St. Mark’s Church, St. Catherine’s Church, the Cathedral
• Zadar’s historical center is a pedestrian zone, perfect to explore on foot.
• Enjoy the Walking tour of the historic inner city shows off the Roman Emperor Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.
• Cruise to Dubrovnik

Cultural, Small Ship Cruise

"We just returned from the Heart of Ireland Tour. The tour was very well organized and we saw a lot of Ireland. But what made the tour really special was our tour guide Mickie. His knowledge of the area and his great personality really put it over the top. He was so friendly and always kept us laughing. This was by far the best vacation we've had in a long time."

Cycling Croatia's Dalmatian Coast

• Spectacular coastal cycling routes
• Explore the mainland and islands on two wheels
• Discover the Unesco city of Dubrovnik

Cultural, Cycling & Biking

"Discover Costa Rica is a great itinerary, covering varied habitats around the country and staying 2 nights each at 6 centres. Their birdwatching specials are led by local experts who really know their stuff."

Health Safety +

Generous cancellation

Private Guided Tours Of Puglia

Alberobello , Gallipoli Peninsula

• Bari Explore the back streets of Puglia’s authentic capital and get a glimpse of Real Puglian life.
• Vieste Adventure to the Gargano penisula, the most dramatic part of the long Puglian coastline.
• Polignano a Mare Discover for yourself why this is perhaps Puglia’s most famous coastal town, perched on dramatic cliffs directly above the Adriatic sea.
• Otranto Our personal favorite Puglian town has an amazing summer vibe with culture and beaches galore

Culinary & Wine, Nature & Wildlife

"My first trip to Italy was beyond my expectations. Alessio (Alma Italia Travel) is knowledgeable, accommodating, and his love for his country is apparent in how he guides guests through each exquisite destination. Alessio thoughtfully coordinates and plans out each day and is respectful of the guests requests for adjustments to the agenda or rest time to truly take in the beauty of Italy. There isn't a day that goes by where I don't long to return to Italy and breathe in that Tuscan air, sip on the rich olive oils and bright wines, and watch the sun rise and fall through the hills. I highly recommend booking your trip of a lifetime with Alma Italia. You'll be gifted a true authentic experience!"

Budapest to Rome

Belgrade, Budapest, Cinque Terre, Croatia, Diocletian's Palace, Dubrovnik, Florence, Kotor, La Spezia, Ljubljana, Pantheon, Rome, Sarajevo, Split, Tuscany, Vatican City, Venice, Zagreb

• Hit the historic hotspot of Dubrovnik (otherwise known as King’s Landing of Game of Thrones fame) along Croatia’s Dalmatian coastline, then explore the white sands of Elaphiti Islands on a day trip with loads of free time to swim, relax or wander.
• Admire the restored architecture of UNESCO World Heritage-listed Kotor in Montenegro on a climb along the ancient city fortifications. Then, discover the glittering Bay of Kotor in your free time.  
• Stroll through Plitvice Lakes National Park – a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site – marvelling at luminous lakes and azure waterfalls that look like they’ve been sketched by an artist. 
• Journey to romantic Venice – like no other city in the world. Fall in love with its labyrinth of alleyways, canals, lagoon islands, and endless historic attractions and maybe hop on a gondola if you want to explore the city from a different perspective.  
• Explore Cinque Terre's rocky coastal pathways, calling into the sleepy pastel villages of Manarola, Riomaggiore or Vernazza. Then enjoy a full day to explore this picturesque spot at your own pace.

Cultural, High Adventure, Local Immersion & Homestays

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

Dubrovnik & the Dalmatian Coast

Dubrovnik, Split

• Visit the Unesco-listed cities of Split, Trogir and Dubrovnik
• Enjoy a catamaran ride to Mljet National Park
• Sample wines produced on the island of Korcula and the Peljesac Peninsula

Cultural, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife

Dubrovnik to Rome

Cinque Terre, Colosseum, Croatia, Dalmatian Coast, Diocletian's Palace, Dubrovnik, Florence, La Spezia, Ljubljana, Pantheon, Rome, Split, Tuscany, Vatican City, Venice, Zagreb

• Stroll through Plitvice Lakes National Park – a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site – marvelling at luminous lakes and azure waterfalls that look like they’ve been sketched by an artist.   
• Feast on Mediterranean fresh seafood, Italian-influenced antipasti and the crunchy, doughy dessert of fritule in the culinary capital of Croatia – Zagreb. Then if you like, explore the touching Museum of Broken Relationships. 
• Journey to romantic Venice – like no other city in the world. Fall in love with its labyrinth of alleyways, canals, lagoon islands, and endless historic attractions and hop on a gondola if you want to explore the city from a different perspective.  
• Explore Cinque Terre's rocky coastal pathways, calling into the sleepy pastel villages of Manarola, Riomaggiore or Vernazza. Then enjoy a full day to explore this picturesque spot at your own pace. 
• Walk around Rome’s famous landmarks, including one of the Seven Wonders of the World – the Colosseum – as well as Vatican City, the Sistine Chapel and St Peter's Basilica.

Best Adriatic Sea Tours by Duration

Tours, Cruises & Private Trips

Best Adriatic Sea Tours by Price

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See all Adriatic Sea reviews

Adriatic Sea Tour Selection Trips

• The best time to enjoy the spectacular swimming in the Adriatic is June through September.
• Consider bringing water shoes. Many swimming spots have ladders, but the shoes come in handy for navigating the rocks, which can be sharp when dry and slick when wet.
• Strategize to avoid crowds. Unfortunately, the tourist sprawl has hit many of the medieval walled cities of Croatia - it's a real issue when the large cruise ships dock. Plan to tour cities early in the morning or later in the evening, when the heat and crowds have subsided.

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On Travelstride you can find 116 trips to Adriatic Sea and more than 20,000 trips worldwide ranging from budget to luxury and private guided to group tours and everything in between. Only on Stride can you find and compare expert-planned trips from 1,000+ tour operators, cruise lines and local experts. Read traveler and professional reviews so you can confidently find your perfect trip.

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The Alternative to Huge Cruises? 3 Masts, 28 Sails and Wind Power.

We checked out the 136-passenger Sea Cloud Spirit on a Mediterranean cruise. In this era of gargantuan ships, its elegant clipper design, wooden decks and relatively small size stands out.

By Ceylan Yeğinsu

From the bridge of the three-masted windjammer, the Sea Cloud Spirit , the captain called out the words we’d all been waiting for.

“Let’s set the sails!” he cried, after turning off the engines, while maneuvering to maintain an optimum angle for his 18 deckhands to climb into the shrouds and unfurl the ship’s 44,132 square feet of sails by hand.

Like acrobats, the crew scurried up the masts to the upper topgallant sails that rose nearly 200 feet above us. The ship’s captain, Vukota Stojanovic, later insisted that none of it was for show. “Whenever there is an opportunity to sail, we sail,” he said.

For the next hour, the crew hauled the ropes until the 28 sails were billowing in the wind, propelling the 452-foot-long ship — the world’s largest passenger sailing vessel on which the sails are raised by hand — toward its first port of call, Portofino, Italy.

At a time when cruise lines are packing their ever-more-gargantuan ships with water parks and basketball courts, the 136-passenger Sea Cloud Spirit, with its old-fashioned clipper design and wooden decks, stands out. It is the newest ship from the Hamburg-based Sea Cloud Cruises , and while it is the company’s biggest, Sea Cloud said it wanted to leave space for passengers to connect to the surrounding elements.

“Wherever you are on the ship, it feels like you are sitting on the water,” said Amelia Dominick, 71, a retired real estate agent from Cologne, Germany, who was on her third cruise onboard the Sea Cloud Spirit.

I had arrived for a four-night “taster sailing” from Nice, France, to the Ligurian region of Italy, designed to entice passengers to sign up for a longer cruise. Here’s what I found.

The ship and cabins

The Spirit has many comforts and luxuries, including a fitness center, library, hair salon and a spa with a Finnish sauna that overlooks the sea. The deck layouts are spacious, with nooks carved out for privacy and relaxation.

Sixty-nine spacious cabins have windows that open onto the sea. My room, a junior suite on the third deck, had two large arched windows, mahogany tables, a balcony and a comfortable couch and armchair. The marble bathroom was lavish, with a gold-plated sink and large jetted bathtub.

The elegant interior design is inspired by the original Sea Cloud, built in 1931 for Marjorie Merriweather Post, the American heiress of the General Foods Corporation, with glossy wooden panels and gold trimmings. The Sea Cloud was the largest private sailing yacht in the world before Post handed it over to the U.S. Navy for use as a weather-reporting vessel during World War II. The four-mast, 64-passenger ship has since been restored to its former glory and will sail across the Aegean and Adriatic this summer.

The experience felt authentic — even before the sails were set — with a detailed safety drill. On most cruises, the drill entails a safety video and signing in at an assembly point. But here, passengers put on their life jackets and walked through emergency scenarios that included rationing food supplies and fishing from the lifeboat.

Each day, the sails were set, even during heavy rain and wind speeds over 30 knots. Guests wanting to participate in the rigging are usually invited to do so, but the weather conditions made it too risky for this sailing.

“It was amazing to watch the work go into putting the sails up and down and to experience the wind power pulling the ship so fast without the engines,” said Malte Rahnenfuehrer, a 50-year-old psychologist from Zurich, who was traveling with his partner and two children.

The captain

It is rare for cruise passengers to see the ship’s captain after the initial welcome drinks or gala dinner. But Capt. Vukota Stojanovic was omnipresent throughout the cruise, from setting sails to lifeguarding to mingling with guests.

Originally from Montenegro, Captain Stojanovic piloted container ships for years. When he was asked to consider helming the original Sea Cloud nearly 10 years ago, he hesitated because he had no experience sailing. Even after he learned the ropes — and there are 340 ropes (known as running rigging) on the vessel — he was unsure. “I grew to love the sailings, the boats, the crew the lifestyle, but I still felt I belonged on container ships,” he said. “It would be a big adjustment, especially because I would have to shave every day,” he joked.

Eventually, he accepted the opportunity and worked tirelessly to learn how to sail and operate the ship. Today, he keeps an “open bridge” policy, allowing passengers to visit the control room, even when he is wrestling with the wind.

“The crew and the passengers are all part of the experience, and I like to meet people and receive their feedback,” Captain Stojanovic said.

Environment

Sea Cloud Cruises aspires to take a “gentle” approach, using wind power to drive its ships wherever possible, even if that means changing course for optimal weather conditions. When sailing is not possible, the Spirit has two diesel-electric engines that run on low-sulfur marine diesel fuel. The company is also working with ports that have shore power capabilities to plug into the local electric power.

Onboard, there is an emphasis on reusable bottles and paper straws, and crew members separate solid waste to be compacted and removed when in port.

Excursions and Activities

We made stops in Portofino, San Remo, Italy, and St.-Tropez, France, anchoring offshore and getting to land by tender — a contrast to the big cruise ships with their loud horns and thick plumes of exhaust spewing from their funnels.

For passengers wanting to take a dip (there is no pool), the crew marked an area in the water with floats and an inflatable slide. The water was frigid, but many passengers took the plunge from the swimming deck. Guests could also take “Zodiac Safaris” around the ship to get views of the vessel from the water.

Excursions ranged from food and wine tours to e-biking and beach trips. In Portofino, passengers were free to explore the sights independently, including the Castello Brown Fortress and the lighthouse on Punta del Capo rock. There was ample time to eat meals on shore as the ship did not depart until 11 p.m. Over the summer, the Sea Cloud Spirit will sail to Spain, Portugal, France and the Azores, among other destinations. On Nov. 11, she will depart for St. Maarten in the Caribbean for the winter.

Wherever the vessel goes, said Mirell Reyes, president of Sea Cloud Cruise for North America, the company tries to “stay away from the crowds and ports where big cruise ships spit out 6,000 passengers.”

Summer prices, which include food and beverages, range from $3,995 for a four-night sailing in a superior cabin to $9,420 for a veranda suite. Seven-night sailings cost between $6,995 and $16,495.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Ceylan Yeginsu is a travel reporter for The Times who frequently writes about the cruise industry and Europe, where she is based. More about Ceylan Yeğinsu

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Th ree-Year Cruise, Unraveled:  The Life at Sea cruise was supposed to be the ultimate bucket-list experience : 382 port calls over 1,095 days. Here’s why  those who signed up are seeking fraud charges  instead.

TikTok’s Favorite New ‘Reality Show’:  People on social media have turned the unwitting passengers of a nine-month world cruise  into  “cast members”  overnight.

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FinanceBuzz

14 Unique Cruises You’ve Probably Never Heard Of

Posted: January 27, 2024 | Last updated: January 27, 2024

Whether you’re a diehard cruise lover or a casual tourist looking to step up your travel game , cruise ships offer a wonderful way to see the sights in multiple locations.

There are plenty of recognizable cruise ships that specialize in specific experiences or themes. However, these lesser-known cruise ship lines may offer a unique experience for those seeking something a little different.

Earn Points and Miles: Find the best travel credit card for nearly free travel

Sea Cloud Cruises

Mainstream cruise ships are often huge and fully modernized. At Sea Cloud Cruises, they focus on a smaller, more intimate sailing experience.

The private yachts primarily use hand-set wind sails to guide the ship. In fact, the routes periodically change to adapt to the weather. The yachts also dock at smaller ports, creating a more unique and personalized travel experience.

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Emerald Cruises

With Emerald Cruises, you can enjoy a river cruise through Europe and Southeast Asia.

Some river routes include the Danube, Rhine, Douro, and Mekong. The company also offers yacht cruises on the Mediterranean, Adriatic, and Red Sea. You can also cruise through the Caribbean and Central America.

Emerald Cruises is also committed to sustainability, sourcing local ingredients at port and avoiding single-use plastic entirely.

Alaskan Dream Cruises – Kruzof Explorer

For a much smaller, more intimate cruising experience, book a stay on the Kruzof Explorer from Alaskan Dream Cruises. This former Bering Sea crab fishing boat only hosts 12 passengers in luxurious, cozy rooms.

Another perk of the Kruzof is the boat’s ability to get to remote, hard-to-access waters. There are also speed boats, kayaks, and adventuring gear on board for further exploration.

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For a more culture-forward cruise experience, take a trip on a Viking river or ocean cruise.

The cruise line docks in smaller towns like Marksburg Castle in Germany or Porto in Portugal. You can also travel along the Seine River in France or the Nile River in Egypt.

The vessels are designed in a modern yet comfy Scandinavian style.

Ocean Endeavour

If you’re seeking a true adventure, book a trip on the Ocean Endeavour, which takes guests on a tour of Antarctica.

With limited off-board options, the on-board amenities are vast, including saunas, spas, a pair of restaurants, and more. The experience is also intimate, with the passenger headcount capped at 199.

UnCruise Adventures

Another cruise line tailored to adventure seekers is UnCruise Adventures. This Alaska-based company has several vessels of varying sizes, and destinations that include Hawaii, California, the Galapagos, and Machu Picchu.

The smallest cruise ship hosts 22 guests in 11 cabins, and the largest can hold up to 86 in 43 cabins.

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Maple Leaf Adventures – Swell

History lovers will enjoy a cruise on the Swell, a 1912 tugboat built in Canada that has been converted into a commercial cruise ship.

The vessel is small, with six cabins and a maximum of 12 guests per voyage. Other amenities include a hot tub, three salons and lounging areas, and kayaks for further exploration.

Paul Gauguin Cruises – The Gauguin

Experience the South Pacific on an intimate vessel with Paul Gauguin Cruises. The Gauguin holds 330 guests and has three restaurants and a spa on board.

Destinations include Tahiti, the Society Islands, Fiji, Tonga, the Cook Islands, and more, many of which are explored together on one voyage. The ship can sail to a total of five islands within a week.

Quark Expeditions – 50 Years of Victory

Quark Expeditions offers another adventurous cruise ship option: 50 Years of Victory.

This nuclear-powered vessel features a spoon-shaped bow and stainless steel skirt that makes it able to break through ice as thick as 9.2 feet.

When not exploring polar waters, guests can take helicopter excursions, hit the gym, swim laps in the pool, warm up in the sauna, and more.

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American Cruise Lines

While most cruise ships explore oceans and rivers abroad, American Cruise Lines sets forth on river expeditions in America.

Specific rivers include the Mississippi River and the Columbia and Snake Rivers. Cruises also visit New England, Alaska, Puget Sound, and more.

The riverboats range in capacity from 90 to 180 guests, with each vessel featuring onboard entertainment and education, fine dining, and more.

Aranui Cruises – Aranui 5

Aranui is a Polynesian-focused cruise line that includes the Aranui 5. The vessel carries passengers around for a 12-day, immersive getaway. At the same time, it is also a supply ship that delivers to small, remote civilizations in French Polynesia.

The ship hosts up to 230 passengers and provides a culturally enriching, comfortable, all-inclusive experience.

Aqua Expeditions

Aqua Expeditions vessels offer river and ocean cruises in destinations such as the Mekong River in Cambodia and Vietnam, the Amazon River in Peru, Komodo Island, the Raja Ampat and Spice Islands in Indonesia, and the Galapagos Islands.

The small cruises focus on culturally engaging experiences, emphasizing exploring nature and local wildlife.

Relais & Châteaux – Ecoventura

Adventurous travelers get to explore the Galapagos Islands aboard the Relais & Châteaux Ecoventura.

This experience also focuses on wildlife and nature, with activities that include snorkeling with sea lions. You might also spot dolphins, green sea turtles, and giant tortoises.

Seeing rare Galapagos birds is another enriching opportunity for passengers of the Ecoventura.

Sailing4Adventure – Skull & Crossbones

For a truly special sailing experience, take a trip aboard the Skull & Crossbones. Expeditions are four days long and recreate the experience of being a pirate sailing on the Baltic Sea in one of two ships.

Passengers are also referred to as players, as they will spend the expedition in character as a true pirate, complete with mock combat between the ships.

Bottom line

These cruise ships offer unique experiences — from exploring remote islands to experiencing the Antarctic.

So, if you have a credit card that helps you earn travel rewards , see if you have accumulated enough points or other perks to enjoy one of these cruises today.

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This Lesser-known Region of Italy Has Stunning Ocean Views, 3 National Parks, and Rolling Vineyards — and It's Just Outside Rome

Abruzzo is filled with dazzling medieval towns, rolling vineyards, and a divine food scene.

Gabriele Paris/Getty Images

Some 30 miles away from Rome in central Italy is a region that offers travelers a world of opportunity: Abruzzo. It's filled with dazzling medieval towns, rolling vineyards, pictorial stretches of sand on the Adriatic Coast, and alpine peaks set amongst three protected national parks. It's home to 75 percent of all European animal species, flora, and fauna. In fact, it's so lush that it's often called the "green lung of Europe."

Abruzzo has four provinces: Chieti, Teramo, L’Aquila, and Pescara. I called Chieti — a hilltop town dotted with ancient streets and a coastline filled with sunbathers and fishing huts — home.

Having visited Tuscany’s famed vineyards years ago, I was excited to see what this less frequented part of central Italy had to offer, from its celebrated Montepulciano wines to its charming towns flanked by mountains and the sea.

It's easy to reach Abruzzo from international airports like Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (FCO) or Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ). Some connections are also offered through Abruzzo Airport (PSR). The Adriatic coastline is connected through high-speed railway services; the trip from Bologna Centrale to Pescara Central in Abruzzo takes a little over three hours.

I made my way to Chieti after spending a few days in bustling Rome, and the first thing to catch my eye was the lack of crowds.

Where I Stayed

Courtesy of Castello di Semivicoli

I checked into Castello di Semivicoli , an 11-room, 17th-century castle surrounded by vineyards and mountain peaks that frame the sparkling Adriatic Sea. But really, I was here for the wine — the idyllic location and views were just the bonus.

The three-generation Masciarelli name is well-known in the region as the driving force for putting Abruzzo wines (like Montepulciano d'Abruzzo and Trebbiano ) on the map, helmed by Gianni Masciarelli. (In 2004, Masciarelli and his wife Marina Cvetic purchased Castello di Semivicoli, keeping its historical details intact, including an olive press, antique furniture, and Murano glass chandeliers.)

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I spent my afternoons poolside, sipping the first Masciarelli varietal (the black fruit-driven Villa Gemma) and Cerasuolo, a zippy cherry forward rosé. Guests at Masciarelli can also take cooking lessons, a private vineyard tour, and visit former professional soccer player turned winemaker Luigi Valori’s organic vineyard in northern Abruzzo.

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The pastoral and coastal location of Abruzzo makes for a diverse cuisine of seafood, legumes, and meats ranging from mutton to pork. Thinly salted mutton skewers, called arrosticini , are one of the region’s most popular.

Don’t miss a visit to a sagre (local fair), for a chance to try ventricina (hot spicy salami), artichokes, and freshly baked bread.

Abruzzo has produced handmade spaghetti alla chitarra for more than 200 years. It's often served with a tomato sauce made with miniature meatballs, called  sugo di pallottine .

A popular seafood dish is brodetto alla pescarese , which is a stew made of slow-cooked tomatoes, pepperoncini, garlic, and small fish ranging from mullet to skate wings.

For sweet tooth satiation, two well-known desserts of the region include sugar-coated almonds (called confetti), and a soft chocolate nougat from L’Aquila, called torrone nurzia .

Outdoor enthusiasts will find several activities in Abruzzo. In the medieval mountain hamlet of Castel del Monte sits Gran Sasso National Park, a biodiverse playground accessible for children, elderly people, and visitors with mobility limitations. Marked as a protected area since 1995, the park is filled with olive groves, almond trees, and areas dedicated to mountain biking and horseback riding. Campo Imperatore plateau, often called Abruzzo’s "Little Tibet" because of its comparable Himalayan views, is also in Gran Sasso and accessible year-round.

Along the coast, a 26-mile back path called Via Verde leads to the Trabocchi coast, where fisherman huts on water stilts line the sea like wooden octopus’ in the distance. A dinner of grilled seafood paired with Vini Valori wines at Trabocco Valle Grotte , suspended over the water during a multi-colored sunset, remains one of the greatest moments of my trip.

Also along the Trabocchi coastline, Punta Aderci Nature Reserve is a protected enclave of dunes, beaches, and clifftops where you can bike along a path or grab a seat on its pebbly sand.

The Wines of Abruzzo

Courtesy of Pasetti Winery

Never one to shy away from a wine tasting or two, I eagerly leaned into learning more about Abruzzo’s varietals. After all, its proximity to the sea and the Apennine Mountains creates an ideal Mediterranean climate for growing wine, and there are approximately 250 wineries in the region that produce roughly 1.2 million bottles per year.

I was off to a good start in Chieti, as the area produces the majority of wines in Abruzzo, including the coveted DOC label, which notes the highest level of quality assurance. While Tuscany is well known for its Vino Sangiovese grape used to make its Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, in Abruzzo, it’s all about the full-bodied Montepulciano grape. (Montepulciani d’Abruzzo represents approximately 80 percent of the region’s wine, followed by Trebbiano d'Abruzzo, Pecorino, and Cerasuolo–an Abruzzo rosé.)

At Masciarelli, visitors can tour the barrel rooms and then have a curated tasting at Castello di Semivicoli , paired with typical Abbruzzese food. The region’s dry and herbal white wine, Trebbiano, is a good complement to the fragrant seafood stews and fried foods of the region.

Fifth-generation Pasetti Winery and guest home is elevated 1,800 feet above sea level in the village of Pescosansonesco, inside the National Park of Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga. It’s an ideal location to spend a day immersed in nature and several varietals. Their Pecorino is filled with aromas of grapefruit and pairs well with just about any seafood dish.

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