Topaz Cruise Dubrovnik-Split M/S Ban | 8 Days

DAY 1 – Saturday:            DUBROVNIK

Welcome to Dubrovnik, the “Pearl of the Adriatic”. Upon arrival at the airport, you will be transferred to Dubrovnik’s Gruž harbour. Once you reach the harbour, you will be able to check in. Cabins will be ready for you from 2 p.m. However, if arriving early, you’ll be able to safely deposit your luggage aboard the ship. You are free to enjoy Dubrovnik until the evening, when we will serve the Welcome Dinner aboard the ship and your cruise manager will introduce you to the entire crew. Overnight in Dubrovnik. (D)

DAY 2 – Sunday:               DUBROVNIK – SLANO

After breakfast, visit the old town of Dubrovnik, where a local guide will take you on a sightseeing tour of the UNESCO protected old town, acquainting you with the most important monuments and hidden spots. After returning to the ship, set sail for Slano, a picturesque town in a deep cove a few hours sailing to the north of Dubrovnik. After lunch on board and a swim stop, arrive in Slano, and embark on a gastronomic adventure in Ston, well known for its extensive Medieval walls and long tradition of oyster farming, spanning over two thousand years. A short boat ride to the oyster farm in the middle of the bay and with a glass of wine in hand we’ll be tasting this natural aphrodisiac straight from the sea. Talk about a gourmet’s dream! Return to Slano later in the afternoon and have the remainder of the day at leisure. Your cruise manager will be on hand to assist with info about local sights and will have some suggestions for nice dinner spots. Overnight in Slano. (B, L)

DAY 3 – Monday:             SLANO – MLJET

Early in the morning, depart for Mljet, one of the most beautiful and the most densely forested islands of the Adriatic. Isolated and untouched, the island is known for its mysticism, olive groves, vineyards, and rich forests. Take in the rich flora and fauna, and peacefully enjoy the pristine beauty of natural surroundings. After lunch on board and a swim stop along the way, arrive in the town of Pomena (population: 52!). Upon arrival in Pomena, enjoy a visit to a national park encompassing most of the island. The park’s highlights are the two saltwater lakes – the Little Lake and the Big Lake with its Benedictine monastery on the Isle of St. Mary. This evening you are invited to the Captain’s dinner aboard the ship. Overnight in Pomena. (B, L, D)

DAY 4 – Tuesday:             MLJET – KORCULA  

Depart for the island of Korčula during breakfast, with a swim stop in one of the many secluded bays along the way. Lunch will be served on board. Afternoon arrival into Korčula, the birthplace of the famous explorer Marco Polo, where our local guide will take you on a unique tour of the old town. You will hear many interesting stories and legends about the city and the life of Marco Polo, the most famous son of Korčula. The casual approach to discovering the history and culture of Korčula will surely delight you. In the evening, we suggest you enjoy one of Korčula’s many exquisite restaurants. If unsure, you can always get some good tips for dinner or points of interest from your cruise manager. Overnight in Korčula. (B, L)

DAY 5 – Wednesday:     KORCULA – VIS  

In the morning, set sail towards the island of Vis. With lunch on board and a swim stop along the way, arrive in Vis in the early afternoon. The island of Vis, formerly a major naval base, was closed to tourists from 1945 until the breakup of Yugoslavia in the 90’s, which helped preserve the authentic appearance of its villages. In the afternoon you will have time to enjoy Vis at your own pace and enjoy everything it has to offer. We suggest a visit to the Archaeological Museum, located in the old Austrian fort Gospina batarija (Batteria della Madona) right on the shoreline or just a simple stroll along the seaside promenade as most of the bars and restaurants are located along it so you are sure to find a lovely place to have dinner. You can always get some good tips for dinner or points of interest from your cruise manager. Overnight in Vis. (B, L)

DAY 6 – Thursday:           VIS – BLUE CAVE – HVAR

In the morning, before breakfast, we sail towards Biševo and the unique natural phenomenon that is the Blue Cave. The Blue Cave is a wonder of the Adriatic Sea and the most attractive sight of the island of Vis, and you will get to see for yourself why so many people visit it each year. After the visit to the Blue Cave*, set sail for Hvar, with a swim stop on the Paklinski Islands and lunch served on board. After this enchanting experience, continue the journey towards Hvar, the longest island in Croatia, the sunniest in all Europe (2724 hours of sunshine per year) and undeniably among the most beautiful islands in the world. Upon arrival join the guided tour of Hvar and learn why this amazing town is a must see on the historical map of Croatia. Your evening is free to explore this amazing holiday spot by yourself. Overnight in Hvar. (B, L)

*Please note that the port of call can be substituted for Stari Grad because of the limited capacity of Hvar harbour. In that case, transfer to and from Hvar will be organized by Zantium Travel.

*Please note that the Blue Cave is only accessible with small boats through an entrance just 1.5m high so it is unfortunately easily made inaccessible by bad weather and high waves.

DAY 7 – Friday:                 HVAR – BRAC – SPLIT  

Early in the morning, while breakfast is served, set sail for the island of Brač. Before lunch on board, you will have time to enjoy a swim stop in one of the beautiful coves that dot the coast of Brač. After the swim stop, continue to Split, arriving in the early afternoon. Upon arrival, join our local guide for a tour of Split’s old town to get acquainted with emperor Diocletian’s Palace and learn about the rich heritage of Split’s millennial history. After the walking tour, you will have free time to enjoy the city at your own pace. Your cruise manager will be on hand to offer some local knowledge and help you with restaurant suggestions for dinner or bars to enjoy a drink in the evening. Overnight in Split. (B, L)

DAY 8 – Saturday:            SPLIT

After breakfast, it will be time to check out and enjoy your complementary transfer to the airport. We hope to see you soon on board again! You must vacate your cabin by 9 a.m. but note that if your departure transfer is later than this you can leave your luggage onboard until it’s time for your transfer. End of services. (B)

Inclusions:

• Accommodation in double/twin air-conditioned cabin with ensuite bathroom
• 8-day cruise from Dubrovnik to Split
• Arrival transfer from Dubrovnik airport or local accommodation to Dubrovnik Port (shared)
• Departure transfer to Split airport or local accommodation (shared)
• Professional Cruise Manager (English-speaking)
• Daily cabin service
• Luggage handling
• Free Wi-Fi on board.
• Meals included: Welcome reception and dinner on day 1, Captain’s Dinner, buffet breakfast daily, 6 lunches with 3 courses, unlimited drinking water (water dispensers), fresh fruit available daily, Ston Oyster tasting experience.
• Sightseeing Tours included: Guided walking tours of Split, Hvar, Korčula and Dubrovnik
• Return bus transfer from Dubrovnik port to Dubrovnik for sightseeing tour
• Professional English-speaking Local Guide for all City tours
• Whisper wireless audio devices for guided tours
• Blue Cave entrance fee

Exclusions:

• Port and residence tax (to be paid onboard in cash) – €60 per person/week (for 2024 sailings), €75 per person/week (for 2025 sailings)
• Tips and gratuities
• Drinks and meals not listed, and coffee/tea other than at breakfast
• Beach towels hire €7 pp/week
• Transfers on days other than the cruise start/finish day

Optional Excursions:

Mljet National Park entrance fee €25 per person

PLEASE NOTE

Cruise provides plenty of time for sunbathing, swimming and exploring the charming Dalmatian towns. In case of unfavourable weather and/or sea conditions, the cruise itinerary may be modified in the interest of passengers’ safety.