ROUTE: OPATIJA – KRK – RAB – ZADAR – KORNATI - MALI LOŠINJ – CRES - OPATIJA

 

Small ship cruises along the charming Croatian coastline and islands on the lavishly designed, fully air-conditioned Deluxe Superior vessel. The Kvarner Bay treasures islands of unique beauty and diversity. Embark on the journey of discovery, spend eight unforgettable days cruising the north Adriatic Sea from one island to another. Savour delicious cuisine, enjoy beautiful sights, dip into the cleanest seawater and let the tranquillity fulfil your soul and sharpen your senses. Every day offers new opportunities and enough time at leisure to explore a new island, antique churches, various historical monuments, and feel the authentic small island way of life.

Day 1   OPATIJA - KRK  (L, T)

 

Departure at 14h with lunch on board. Late arrivals can join in Krk town, situated on the homonymous island. On route, stop for swimming in the most crystal clear water you may have ever seen. Krk has diverse villages of various sizes, stunning promenades, dramatic rock faces with tiny islands and hundreds of hidden bays and beaches. There's a buzz along the waterfront of the Krk town. Relax and enjoy many bars or restaurants. Afternoon wine tasting in Vrbnik village with bus transfer from Krk. Overnight in Krk town.

 

Day 2   KRK - RAB (B, L, T)

After breakfast, cruise towards Rab, known as the “island of love”. On arrival, join a guided tour to visit the imposing stone walls and striking Romanesque church towers, churches, palaces, stone streets and ancient facades. Many streets and squares act as open-air galleries for artists working outside. Do not miss to taste the famous “Rapska torta“ cake (the recipe is secret). If weather permits, walk up to Kamenjak hill and watch the magnificent sunset. Overnight in the town of Rab.

 

Day 3   RAB - ZADAR (B, L) 

 

Morning cruise from Rab towards Zadar, travelling by Pag, an island of the unusual, moon-like landscape. Swim stop on a tiny Maun island. After arrival in Zadar, join the guided tour. The city is today the centre of the region and was the metropolis of the Dalmatia region for many centuries. The rich cultural heritage is visible at every turn: the Roman forum which dates to the 1st century AD, the church of St. Donatus dating to the 9th century AD - the most famous Medieval basilica and the symbol of the city. The imposing and mighty city walls with representative Port and Land gates are from the 16th century AD, and there are numerous palaces and villas of former noble families. Great restaurants line part of the waterfront and the centre of town. Famous, contemporary creations are the Zadar Sea Organ, one of a kind in the world (listen to the sound) and “The Greeting to the Sun” light installation. Overnight in Zadar.

 

Day 4   ZADAR - KORNATI (B, L)

 

Today, visit the region of the famous Kornati National Park – rich in fish and cultural and historic remains. Historic remains of the old Illyrian fortress, Roman villas, old Christian church of St. Mary and Medieval fortresses and settlements add to the value of these islands. The Kornati consists of 140 islands and reefs. Inlets of some islands descend steeply into the sea, a hundred meters deep in places, and dramatically razor sharp. It is truly something remarkable to see. Overnight in Telašćica Bay on Dugi Otok. Possibility to walk to the white cliffs vertically falling down 90 m into the sea and rising up to 200 m over the sea as well as the salt lake “Mir”.

 

Day 5   KORNATI - MALI LOŠINJ (B, L)

After breakfast and a morning swim, cruise towards Lošinj, known as “the sunshine island” with an abundance of pines, wildflowers and herbs. Losinj is one of the most popular islands on the northern Adriatic waters for its hidden coves and cool Mediterranean vibe. On arrival to Mali Lošinj, enjoy the guided walking tour, followed by a visit to the Museum of Apoxyomenos. The museum is dedicated to the ancient bronze statue of an athlete found in the sea near the island. Walk up to the Lošinj Aromatic Garden or to the smaller town of Veli Lošinj, both easy to reach and explore on foot. Overnight in Mali Lošinj.

 

Day 6   MALI LOŠINJ - CRES (B, L)

 

Departure for the Cres island after the morning swim. Possible swim stop on island Susak, if weather permits. Cres is an unspoiled island, long and narrow abundant with olive groves, vineyards, forests of oak, beech and remarkable stone walls. Cres and Mali Lošinj made once one island before the Romans dug a narrow channel to separate them. Optional dinner in the village Loznati (transfer from Cres) where to taste the best traditional lamb specialities this island has to offer. Alternatively, spend the night in the port of Cres - a typical medieval town with hidden squares and courtyards. Overnight in Cres.

 

Day 7   CRES - OPATIJA (B, L, CD)

 

After breakfast, departure towards Opatija. The famous Opatija Riviera is best seen from the sea. Arrive in the late afternoon. Stroll the longest lungomare (seaside promenade) in Croatia and stop in Volosko, a traditional fishing village. On the last night, enjoy captain`s dinner with live entertainment on board. This would be a great time to swap contact details with your new friends and plan your return.

 

DAY 8   OPATIJA (B)

 

Gather for one final breakfast, followed by goodbyes with all the new friends and the crew before they see you off in the port of Opatija where the transfer to the airports awaits. 

 

Legend: B – breakfast, L – lunch, D – dinner, T – tasting, CD – Captain`s dinner