Dalmatian Island Cruise
I have previously worked for several seasons in Croatia on Explore Worldwide’s Dalmatian Island Cruise, an 8 day tour of island highlights.
I truly believe that one of the best ways to see Croatia is by boat, after all, there are over 1200 islands which are home to so many hidden gems- pristine coves and beaches, pine forests, terracotta roofs and pretty medieval towns with rich histories.
The boat used for the island hopping cruise was a Croatian oldtimer, which is a traditional Croatian cargo boat converted into comfortable cabins with a sundeck and a dining/bar area. There are a huge variety of boats which sail the Dalmatian islands and you can choose a more budget option with bunk beds and shared bathrooms. Alternatively you could opt for all-out luxury and a boat that has large cabins and ensuite facilities. Our route took in the very best islands in the Adriatic- Vis, Brac, Korcula, Mljet and Hvar. Stopping at a different port every night we island hopped from medieval towns to deserted beaches, Venetian buildings and pine scented forest trails.
The week-long tour started in Trogir, a medieval walled town steeped in over 2300 years of history. Culturally it was created under the influence of the ancient Greeks, and then the Romans, and then the Venetians. This is spectacularly reflected in its architecture - every view of the town is worthy of a photograph!
We headed next to Vis town on the island of the same name, which has an interesting history as a military base. The island has been closed to visitors until very recently. You can still see many of the bunkers previously used by the Yugoslavs, some of which were to hide their ships from the air raids during the Second World War. We stopped here for wine tasting in a section of a tunnel that has been converted into a family run wine cellar.
At nearby Bisevo Island is the blue caves a grotto that displays the most wondrous turquoise waters, lit by sunlight filtering in beneath the waterline. Next it was on to the pretty town of Korcula, nicknamed a ‘mini Dubrovnik’ due to its layout and similarly awe inspiring medieval walls. This wonderfully compact town’s history, like most of Croatia, spans the centuries. Korcula is another photographers dream, with its red terracotta roofs, stone cathedrals and winding roads.
The next highlight is the island of Mljet, a National Park which has a network of pine scented forest trails you can explore by foot or bike. There are also two interconnected vivid blue saltwater lakes perfect for swimming or kayaking.
On then to bustling Hvar town, renowned for its party scene and a magnet to those wanting a combination of great nightlife, stylish beaches and cafes. Don’t be put off by this if you’re after some serious culture and history- the town is steeped in both. Visit the Spanjola fortress, the 16th century arsenal building and the oldest theatre in Europe. Foodies will love the selection of restaurants and fine wines and there are so many wonderful places to explore, nestled away in courtyards and spilling out onto narrow cobbled streets.
Our final stop was at Split, once home to the Roman emperor Dioceltian and now just home to the remains of his impressive palace, complete with real Egyptian sphinx! Rub the statue of Gregorious of Nin’s big toe and make a wish- it’s a tradition that even the locals indulge in!
After a week aboard a Dalmatian cruse on a small boat such as this it’s hard to say goodbye to your fellow passengers and the charming, friendly captain and crew.
If you’d like more information on how to book a Dalmatian island cruise then please don’t hesitate to contact me, I’d be delighted to talk about one of the most beautiful places on earth with you!