Today you’ll depart the USA on an overnight flight to Dubrovnik, Croatia.
Upon arrival in Dubrovnik, transfer to your hotel. The afternoon is yours to relax or explore the city on your own. Tonight you’ll enjoy a Welcome Dinner at the hotel. Dinner
Following breakfast at your hotel, transfer to Gruz Harbor where your ship, the MS Karizma, awaits. This afternoon, relax onboard as you become acquainted with the ship and crew. Tonight enjoy a Welcome Reception and dinner onboard. Breakfast at hotel, dinner onboard ship
Known as the 'Pearl of the Adriatic', situated on the Dalmatian coast, Dubrovnik became an important Mediterranean sea power from the 13th century onwards. Although severely damaged by an earthquake in 1667, Dubrovnik managed to preserve its beautiful Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque churches, monasteries, palaces and fountains. Damaged again in the 1990s by armed conflict, it is now the focus of a major restoration program and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Before the ship sails, depart on a walking tour of Dubrovnik. During the guided excursion, tour the interior of The Rector's Palace, a Gothic-Renaissance structure that displays finely carved statues and an ornate staircase. Another historic site on the tour is the pharmacy of the Franciscan Monastery, constructed in 1317. The rule of the Franciscan order was to take care of the sick brethren. However this particular pharmacy was designed and founded as the public pharmacy, as well as for the needs of the monks. Today the Friars Minor Pharmacy is the third oldest functioning pharmacy in the entire world. Sailing from Dubrovnik, lunch is served onboard as you make your way to Mljet, the most southerly and easterly of the larger Adriatic Islands of the Dalmatia region of Croatia. On your guided visit of the Mljet National Park, learn about the five types of forests, the island's geological structure consisting of limestone and dolomite forming ridges, crests and slopes and the many species of birds and eagles nests. The east end of the park is characterized by two deep bays that are called “lakes” because of their narrow channel. A channel connects the small lake with the big lake, on which St. Mary’s Island is situated with its Benedictine Monastery from the 12th century. Many tales involve the island of Mljet, one of which says it was the favorite holiday destination of the Greek hero Ulysses! Breakfast, lunch and dinner onboard
This morning is spent leisurely sailing along the river and enjoying the remarkable views of the Dalmatian Coast. Following lunch onboard, arrive in the beautiful small town of Pucisca. With a population of 2,200, the town arose from stone in a deep cover on the north island of Brac. Known for is culture of stone masonry, the nicely built stone houses with paved white roofs give Pucisca its charm. Take a swim in the beautiful blue waters of one of the bays near this quaint town. Breakfast, lunch and dinner onboard
The picturesque, ancient town of Omis is surrounded by small fishing villages with beautiful beaches. Numerous monuments from its past, including churches and fortresses, are the witnesses of its long and glorious history. During an included walking tour, stroll through the town that is a silent stone reminder of the power and might of the infamous pirates whose ships were a symbol of retaliation, courage and strength. The day continues as you board small boats that take you into the magnificent Cetina River Canyon, a protected nature area. Sail upriver to Radman Mills where you are treated to a local specialty snack before returning to the ship in Omis.
This afternoon, arrive in Split, the largest Dalmatian city and second largest city of Croatia. Spread over a central peninsula and its surroundings, Split's greater area includes the neighboring seaside town and its city center is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your guided visit will include the seafront promenade and the Roman Emperor Diocletian’s Palace with its ancient columns and Roman belfries. Breakfast, lunch and dinner onboard
This morning our ship arrives in Bol, known for the best beach in Croatia — the Golden Horn. This vast, golden pebble beach is some 580 yards long and is unique as it changes shape and position depending on the winds! You’ll have free time to swim and enjoy this beautiful beach. This afternoon your ship sails on to Hvar, a meeting point for the international jet-set. Known as ‘the Croatian Maderia’, Hvar is one of the longest islands stretching along the shores of Croatia. On the included walking tour you’ll see the first public theater in Europe (older than Shakespeare’s theater in the UK), the Franciscan Monastery and other historic sights. Afterwards, free time is available for your independent exploration as the ship remains in Hvar overnight. Breakfast, lunch and dinner onboard
Setting sail after breakfast, the ship makes its way to Korcula, the acclaimed birthplace of the famous explorer Marco Polo. As you stroll through its narrow, cobbled streets on the included walking tour, you’ll visit the majestic Cathedral of St. Mark, built in Gothic-Renaissance style and probably the most important building in the Old Town of Korcula. Immerse yourself in Korcula’s picturesque town and discover adorned palaces and elegant houses. In the evening, follow the fading light to reveal a glorious Adriatic sunset. Breakfast, lunch and dinner onboard
Enjoy a pleasant trip along the shores of the Mljet Island with a visit to Grgich Hills Winery, owned by the famous American wine producer in Trstenik, for a tasting. The ship arrives in Dubrovnik and your final evening of the cruise is free of planned activities. Breakfast, lunch and dinner onboard
Bid a fond farewell to Croatia and The Dalmatian Coast and return home with memories of life enriching experiences from your small ship adventure. Breakfast onboard
Itinerary is subject to change based on operating conditions
Grand Hotel Park, Dubrovnik, Croatia
Aboard the MS Karizma
Small ships offer a more intimate experience with an active adventure style of cruising. The MS Karizma allows for access to the relatively small ports, harbors and inlets, providing unique views of the landscape and surroundings. This small ship provides the comforts of home with its cozy, functional atmosphere. The covered dining area of the upper deck is spacious enough to accommodate all guests. A rear access platform to the sea as well as ladders for easy access to the water make the activities from the ship even more enjoyable.
- Built: 2016
- Staterooms: 19
- Double stateroom has a queen bed. Twin staterooms have two twin beds. Staterooms are spacious and feature: air conditioning, LCD TV, safe deposit box, internal communication system between cabins and bar. Bathrooms are equipped with toilet, shower, wash basin, hairdryer and cosmetic package.
- Double stateroom has a queen bed. Twin staterooms have two twin beds. Staterooms are spacious and feature: air conditioning, LCD TV, safe deposit box, internal communication system between cabins and bar. Bathrooms are equipped with toilet, shower, wash basin, hairdryer and cosmetic package.
- Fully air-conditioned Upper Deck dining room
- Restaurant includes bar area with LCD TV
- Buffet breakfast area
- Upper Deck observation area offering sweeping panoramic views of the surroundings
- Sun Deck offering sun-shade cover and lounge chairs
- Free wireless internet access (WiFi)
- Two outdoor showers and four lavatories on deck
