Croatia Yacht Cruise with the Small Cruise Ship Collection — An Expert Review of a Cruise in the Adriatic Between Split and Dubrovnik

Croatia Yacht Cruise

By Alison Abbott

I must be one of the few visitors to Croatia without Game of Thrones on my mind. No, I was there for the pull of the pearls in the Adriatic’s azure waters.

Being an island girl from way back, the names of Vis, Hvar, and Korčula were calling; I’ve never met an atoll that didn’t seduce me in one way or another. After all, we are talking about the birthplace of Marco Polo — the ultimate adventure traveler!

Franciscan monastery and Church of St. Jerome on Prirovo peninsula — site location from the film Mama Mia 2 on Vis. * Photo: Alison Abbott

Croatia presents a mesmerizing blend of history, culture and natural beauty. Embarking on a small-ship cruise to explore the Croatian islands offers a unique and intimate experience that larger vessels simply cannot match.

With over a thousand islands scattered along the Adriatic Sea, Croatia’s stunning archipelago is best appreciated from the deck of a smaller vessel, where you can enjoy unparalleled access to secluded bays, charming coastal towns, and pristine beaches.

Unlike larger ships, small cruises can navigate closer to shore, allowing for more flexible itineraries and spontaneous stops at hidden gems that are often overlooked by mainstream tourism.

This personalized approach not only provides a more relaxed and leisurely pace but also fosters deeper connections with local culture, cuisine, and history. Whether it’s savoring fresh seafood at a quaint village tavern or swimming in the crystal-clear waters of a remote cove, a small-ship cruise offers an immersive and unforgettable way to experience the enchanting beauty of the Croatian islands.

Swimming in the Adriatic. * Photo: Alison Abbott

RELATED: Writer Susan R Pollack reviews her Croatia yacht cruise with Katarina Line.

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How Many Shades of Blue

I was traveling with my college roommate, and The Wonders of Croatia itinerary offered by the Small Cruise Ship Collection combined our islands of interest with the luxurious comfort in a relaxed setting we love.

I’m a firm believer in the benefits of unpacking once and moving from port to port happily aboard your floating hotel, especially when it’s on a small quirky yacht that gives you a boutique experience.

Leaving from Split and disembarking in Dubrovnik, this 7-night small ship cruise allows plenty of time for exploring.

Recharge, refresh and dig deep into the land of cuttlefish, castles, Cipidrag and cerulean seas.

Are you ready to come aboard?

The handsome Nautilus. * Photo: Alison Abbott

Croatia’s Coastline

There are over 1,244 natural formations in the Croatian archipelago, of which 78 are islands. Along this section of the Adriatic Sea, visitors will also find an additional 1,166 islets, cliffs and reefs. A scant 49 of the islands are inhabited and luckily, relatively close to the Croatian coastline making them easy to visit.

A comprehensive ferry system and numerous cruising agencies make it easy to visit. The most complicated piece of the puzzle is choosing where you want to go.

Joining the Small Ship Nautilus

When joining the ship in Split, guests will find a very active and busy port. Don’t be surprised if locating the boat is a challenge. It’s best to find the travel company’s dockside booth and ask where you might find the yacht.

Unfortunately, when we arrived, the information booth for our yacht was closed. Our situation might have been a fluke, but as a backup, I would recommend downloading either the marinetraffic.com or the vesselfinder.com app and experiment with it before your departure. Some fellow passengers we spoke to later also had trouble finding our ship as well, so definitely more complete instructions would have been helpful.

Also make sure to preload the phone number of the local representative in your phone from the joining instructions.

While we struggled to get our bearings, a kindly crew member from another boat company quickly opened the app, plugged in the name of the ship and Voila!

Nautilus was hidden behind a group of five other similar boats. Without his generous assistance, we would have been rolling our suitcases up and down the esplanade for far too long in the heat.

Luckily, Nautilus was not leaving Split until the following morning. We didn’t have the additional pressure of a specific boarding time. Not a great way to start, but problem solved!

Jane & Alison … finally on board! * Photo: Alison Abbott

Who is the Small Cruise Ship Collection?

Small cruising yachts are an unbeatable way to explore the Dalmatian coastline.

The Small Cruise Ship Collection is a travel agency who works with over 100 ships that sail in most parts of the world, connecting travelers like you with the many private yachts cruising all of the world. Their emphasis is on experiential itineraries on expedition and small ships, with the majority ranging from 8 to 150 passengers. When booking a Croatia yacht cruise, you’re dealing with the folks who run Small Cruise Ship Collection, not the individual yacht owners.

Our ship, M/V Nautilus, was built in 2019 and offers 19 en-suite, air-conditioned cabins, accommodating a total of 38 passengers. She is a luxury yacht, 157 ft. long and 28 ft. wide with a cruising speed of nine knots.

Throughout the boat is a gleaming white décor with classic turquoise accents reflecting the crystal-clear Adriatic. Activity on the boat takes place on four different levels.

The upper 500 sq. foot sun deck has an expansive covered area with lounge chairs and further space in the sun.

The Sun Deck of the Nautilus. * Photo: Alison Abbott

It’s an ideal spot to spend time watching the world go by as the yacht makes its way between islands. This is where we spent most of our time — watching the sun set, having cocktails and relaxing during the sailing.

A large jacuzzi is rear of the loungers. In the shaded part of the lounge there are tables and chairs. There’s also plenty of space for a mat should you like to stretch or do some yoga.

Down a short flight of aft stairs is an exterior seating area with small cocktail tables. The interior salon has panoramic windows exposing an all-around view of our journey when seated for dining. Tables of eight encourage mixing and getting to know the other guests.

The Nautilus’s elegant dining room. * Photo: Alison Abbott

Forward is a small lounge area with the bar, coffee and filtered water. Two cabins are located forward on this level.

The Lower Level has a swim deck with ladder for direct access to the water. The are also two bathrooms and a shower nearby. Snorkeling masks, noodles and paddleboards are included in the fares.

The stern of Nautilus provides easy access for swimming. * Photo: Alison Abbott

Staterooms and Suites on Nautilus

All but three of the cabins are found on either the main deck or the lower deck. I was on the lower deck in a spacious room with port holes. Accessed internally, the well-appointed cabin had a queen bed, couch, desk area, wardrobe, TV, hair dryer and large ensuite bathroom with shower.

Alison’s lower deck cabin. * Photo: Alison Abbott

There was also a small safe in the wardrobe. It was one of the “largest” rooms I have had on a small-ship cruise. It was accented with turquoise accessories, bringing even more of the Adriatic aesthetic into the interior.

For the Small Cruise Ship Collection’s “Deluxe superior ships” like Nautilus, slippers and a bathrobe are provided. My carry-on hard-shell suitcase fit comfortably under the bed.

Food and Beverage on Nautilus

Our cruise included two meals a day, plus a welcome drink and dinner our first night on board.

A buffet breakfast offered the basics: cereal, toast, several pastries and some type of egg and meat, along with fruit. Juices, tea and coffee were included.

The chef offered several traditional dishes at lunch such as cuttlefish. And as a pescatarian, I was offered sea bass (rather than pork) for the welcome dinner. Fish was available at all of the other lunches along with salad and an appetizer.

Seabass and squash on served for the welcome dinner. * Photo: Alison Abbott

During lunch in Korčula we had an onboard wine tasting from Rizman and Jakovac vineyards. The tasting was followed by a delicious tuna pate and a cuttlefish with chickpeas selection.

The Cuttlefish dish. * Photo: Alison Abbott

I loved the fact that the cruise did not include dinner meals, as it gave us the opportunity to sample local restaurants and stroll the marina area in each port. We found it the perfect way to taste the regional culture and end each day.

The Other Passengers on Our Croatia Yacht Cruise

One of the first questions asked when I talk about cruising on a small ship is “but what about the other passengers? Suppose you don’t get along.”

This trip was small ship cruise #14 for me and I have never found that to be the case.

Over the years, I’ve discovered I have a lot in common with guests who choose small-ship cruising. They are usually active and educated people seeking meaningful up-close encounters with nature and culture.

Of course, you are not always going to have the same world views with everyone, but a love of travel is a great equalizer and helps you to find a common denominator. Otherwise, you wouldn’t be here in the first place.

This trip of 36 passengers had several groups of friends on board, and in all cases, this was not their first time traveling together.

A family of eight arrived from South Africa, several couples were from Australia and Texas, a well-traveled couple from Ohio and the girlfriends from New England (us) rounded out the passengers. Ages ranged from early 40’s to late 70’s.

Highlights of Our Croatian Islands Itinerary from Split to Dubrovnik

The marina in Split is quite near Diocletian’s Palace, a perfect location for exploring this living architectural piece of Croatian history. After joining the group, we had a wonderful guided tour of the palace and marina area.

The Diocletianus Palace. * Photo: Alison Abbott

The advantage of cruising on Nautilus is the ship’s ability to visit islands which larger cruises cannot.

These lesser-known destinations included small coves for water activities as well as the islands of:

• Bol, Brac
• Hvar
• Vis
• Korčula
• Slano, Mljet (mainland)
• Ending in Dubrovnik (mainland)

Every day offered a scheduled walking tour and/or activity with a knowledgeable local guide (included in the fares). Headphones were provided for the length of the trip. Each day, usually late morning, there was an informational meeting by the host, with an overview of the day ahead.

Map of the Wonders of Croatia itinerary from Small Cruise Ship Collection.

As for swimming and water sports, it was still chilly in the water on our June cruise; though Nautilus anchored for swims twice. I think once it warms up, there would be more swimming on the trip.

Four of my Favorite Island Experiences on the Wonders of Croatia Cruise

Bol, Brac

Bol, our arrival location on the island, is perhaps best known for the nearby Zlatni Rat, or the Golden Horn. This unique, pebbly beach extends into the sea and changes shape with the tides and currents. This beach is not only one of Croatia’s most iconic images but also a paradise for sunbathers and water sports enthusiasts. Windsurfing and kite surfing are particularly popular here, thanks to the favorable winds.

Charming Brač. * Photo: Alison Abbott

Photos depict a long, hooked white sandy beach surrounded by turquoise waters. In reality, we passed it at high tide, so much of the landscape was underwater. Alas, Mother Nature doesn’t always reflect Instagram’s land of perfection.

After rounding the infamous Golden Horn, Nautilus anchored in Bol, the picturesque town located on the southern coast of Brač Island. With a population of around 1,600, Bol maintains a charming small-town vibe while offering a variety of activities and attractions.

Golden Horn. * Photo: Alison Abbott

The town’s history dates back to Roman times and its rich past is evident in its architecture and cultural landmarks. One notable historical site is the Dominican Monastery, founded in the 15th century. This monastery not only houses a museum with religious artifacts but also offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea, making it a perfect spot for history enthusiasts and photographers alike.

We spent several hours perusing the waterfront promenade, diving into unique boutiques and walking out to the Golden Horn.  Lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops, it offers a delightful atmosphere where you can savor local delicacies such as fresh seafood, olive oil, and the renowned Brač wines. Bol’s blend of natural beauty, historical charm, and lively ambiance made it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a less explored Croatian experience.

Romantic Vis

This enchanting island is a hidden gem with a rich history and a tranquil ambiance. The island’s population of around 3,500 people offers a warm welcome to visitors eager to explore its unique attractions and stunning landscapes.

Walking the bougainvillea filled alleyways of Vis. * Photo: Alison Abbott

Vis has a fascinating history, having been a strategic military base for various empires, including the Greeks, Romans, Venetians, and even the British. During World War II, it served as a significant hideout for Yugoslav partisans, and many remnants of its military past, such as tunnels and bunkers, can still be explored today.

Vis opened for tourism in 1991 for the first time in decades, and thus remains under the radar to visitors. Fans of the film Mama Mia 2 might recognize the island as the film “double” for the beautiful Greek island of Kalokari.

Franciscan monastery and Church of St. Jerome on Prirovo peninsula — site location from the film Mama Mia 2. * Photo: Alison Abbott

One of the island’s popular attractions is the Blue Cave on the nearby islet of Biševo. This natural wonder is renowned for its mesmerizing blue light, created when sunlight passes through an underwater opening, illuminating the cave’s interior. We were scheduled to visit in the morning, but sadly, the rough sea and tides prevented our trip. Disappointing yes, but looking on the bright side it gave us more time to spend exploring other parts of this magical place.

Jane and I spent several hours hiking the extensive waterfront path that followed the harbor in Vis town. The nooks and crannies up and down the cobbled streets and staircases were lined with overflowing bougainvillea.

Within a few blocks, I was instantly trying to figure out how to return for a longer stay! Tiny shops offering one-of-a-kind creations of jewelry, dress and crafts were hidden down enchanting alleyways. Time got away from us before we realized we had missed lunch, but the charming Frutarija Vis more than made up for it with a delicious meal and waterfront view.

View of Frutarija Vis restaurant. * Photo: Alison Abbott

In the late afternoon our group walked up a hill past overgrown barracks being reclaimed by the jungle. Our destination, Lipanovic winery, has the unique designation of being the only cellar in the world located in a military tunnel.

Who knew that the location provided the ideal conditions for storing wine!? The island is thought by many to be the center of Croatian viticulture and drinking wine in this area of the Adriatic began on the former Greek island of Vis.

Our guide took us through the tasting selections of Vugava, Viški Opol and Plavac Mali. I particularly liked the Viški Opol, a rosy Dalmatian wine with a short maceration time. Perfect for a hot summer day. Accompanied by small tapas of fish paté, salted anchovies, local cheeses, olives, caper berries, bread and Lipanović olive oil, it was truly a taste of land and sea.

Wine tasting at the Lipanovic winery. * Photo: Alison Abbott

The wines we tasted at Lipanovic. * Photo: Alison Abbott

And about that Cipidrag …still wondering what it is? Lipanovic Winery is the perfect place to find out. For years folks have been trying to trace the origin of Zinfandel. After much DNA testing, apparently the Tribidrag vine from Croatia made its way to California via Primitivo in Italy via Long Island and a name change to Cipidrag back in Craotia.

It’s a complicated, circuitous route and wine aficionados can taste the rounded, full bodied original right here from the alluvial terroir of Dalmatia’s Vis in southern Croatia.

Alison in the cave. * Photo: Alison Abbott

Historic Korčula

Korčula, a captivating island in the Adriatic Sea, is renowned for its lush landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. With a population of around 15,500 people, the island offers a welcoming atmosphere and a wealth of attractions for visitors to explore.

The history of Korčula is deeply intertwined with various civilizations, including the Greeks, Romans, and Venetians. Its most famous historical claim is as the reputed birthplace of the explorer Marco Polo. The island’s strategic location made it an important maritime and trade center throughout history, leaving a legacy of stunning architecture and cultural heritage.

Lea, our knowledgeable guide in front of Marco Polo’s birthplace in Korčula. * Photo: Alison Abbott

We docked in the marina outside of Korčula Town, often referred to as “Little Dubrovnik” because of its medieval squares, churches, and palaces. After a brief history, our guide pointed out the main sites during a walk through the enchanting town. It’s authentic appeal made me feel like I was stepping back in time.

The town is a treasure trove of historical sites, including the 15th-century St. Mark’s Cathedral, which showcases exquisite Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Visitors can also explore the Marco Polo House, believed to be the birthplace of the legendary traveler, which offers insights into his life and adventures.

A Korčula walkway. * Photo: Alison Abbott

After a day of exploration, visitors can enjoy the island’s culinary delights in its charming restaurants. There is a promenade with lofty seaviews, the perfect spot for a meal. Fresh seafood, local wines, and traditional Dalmatian dishes offer a true taste of Korčula’s gastronomic traditions.

With its blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural vibrancy, Korčula lived up to the promise of an unforgettable experience.

Hip Hvar & Dinner at Leporini

Although we were caught in the rain and got drenched in Hvar, I would be remiss if I didn’t share my favorite dining experience off the boat. After warming up and regrouping when Nautilus returned to the dock, Jane and I were determined to find a great meal in town. The historic and inviting Leporini was calling our name.

Housed in a former palace with Gothic roots and a commitment to local ingredients, the meal did not disappoint. From the amuse-bouche which left us laughing with squid ink-stained lips, to the beetroot carpaccio with hazelnuts, goat curd and lavender cream to the tagliatelle swimming with truffles and sage, it was a true party with our tastebuds.

Truffle and tagliatelle at Leporini in Hvar. * Photo: Alison Abbott

We left with the rain-soaked memories evaporated and felt “Life Is Good” as we saw the island’s castle illuminated in the distance.

The 16th-century Fortica Fortress in Hvar. * Photo: Alison Abbott

Each of the islands we visited offered an opportunity to explore and take in the local culture. I liked the fact that we were off the yacht each night for dinner.

Is there a better way for a deep dive into the regional culture than tasting food at a small café or restaurant?

After an hour tour with a local and knowledgeable guide, we had plenty of time to explore on our own and depending on your interest could involve a museum, visiting historical sights, shopping or people watching in a charming waterside café.

I found it a nice balance of morning sail amongst the azure waters, a swim stop and then a dose of culture and culinary exploration in the evening. Coming back to Nautilus there was always the opportunity for a nightcap and/or hot tub under the moonlight.

Every night we were anchored at the dock. It was a nice balance of isolated locations and cultural opportunities. Motoring or sailing between islands usually took place after breakfast.

Additional Travel Before and After a Dalmatian Coast Cruise

Split and Dubrovnik are great arrival/departure cities for additional travel before or after this cruise. Everyone we spoke with on the yacht had further plans after their time at sea. Montenegro, inner Croatia, Slovenia, Spain and Italy were some of the destinations guests had in their plans.

My friend and I flew into Ljubljana, Slovenia pre-cruise and spent six days touring the country. We stayed in the AS Boutique Hotel, which we found very nice; it was a great location and had an excellent restaurant.

From there, we took a five-hour drive to Split with a stop in the middle to visit the gorgeous Plitvice Lakes.

Plitivice National Park is a UNESCO site in central Croatia. * Photo: Alison Abbott

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the most visited park in Croatia and should not be missed.

Insider Tip: Get there early (it opens at 7am ) and tickets can be purchased in advance.

After the cruise we booked four days in Dubrovnik and used the time to explore the city. Leading the agenda were some great farm-to-table restaurants — one of our faves was Posat, a short walk from the old city; we enjoyed excellent seafood on an outdoor terrace overlooking the water. Of course all the Game of Thrones sites (I had to take pics for my husband) were on our agenda and exploring the museum scene.

We averaged over17,000 steps a day! Make sure to pack great walking shoes, the stones in the 6th century Old City are slippery, and combined with the many stairs require good ankle support.

Last stop in Dubrovnik overlooking the Dalmatian Islands. * Photo: Alison Abbott

We stayed at the Hotel Bellevue Dubrovnik, a 20-minute walk from the Old City and perched high above the Adriatic with breathtaking views. There is beach access, an indoor pool, spa and lovely space for relaxing and exploring their extensive wine list. They also have an excellent Michelin recommended restaurant Vapor.

Dubrovnik is also a great base for exploring nearby Montenegro. Should you cruise in the other direction (Dubrovnik to Split), Split provides easy access to the greenest country of the world — Slovenia.

Full Charters

The yacht can be fully chartered for families or a group of friends. Solo travelers can book a cabin for a supplemental fee.

When to Take a Croatia Yacht Cruise 

Croatia enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters with rain.

Croatia cruises are offered April through October. Consider the best dates for your travel.

Early season cruises, April-May-June, have less crowds, but the water is cooler and some of the shops on smaller islands are just getting ready for the high season. Many of the small cafes and shops are not open. Water is still cold for swimming.

High season July-August will be much more crowded.

We traveled in the beginning of June and already the temperatures were in the mid 80’s with cooler evenings warranting a sweater or wrap. The water was warm enough for swimming; I’d call it refreshingly chilled.

Temperatures in May-June range from 60° to 83°F, Jul-Aug 72° to 88°F, and Sept-Oct 65° to 78°F. The wettest month is November.

Fall season the waters are still sun kissed from the summer sun and many of the tourists have departed. Be aware, this part of Croatia is busy even in the shoulder season.

Things to Know Before You Go on a Croatia Yacht Cruise

• Passengers will fly in and out of either Split or Dubrovnik. Of course, both destinations can be reached by car as well.
• Consider the type of accommodations you would like onboard before settling on a date and make sure they are available on Nautilus (or the ship you are choosing).
• The itinerary for our cruise was in very calm waters. Sea sickness did not seem to be an issue for anyone on board, but if you have doubts, it’s always better to come prepared.
• Stairs are required to access the different levels of Nautilus. Often boats are tied together in the harbor and guests walk thru several boats to get to their own yacht.  While the staff on all the boats are helpful, the path does involve ups and downs and stretching between boats. Anyone with mobility issues should keep this in mind.
• There was decent Wifi on board.
• Electricity on board is 220V.

Packing Pointers:

• Shoes are allowed while walking round the yacht, but do leave the high heels at home. Cobblestone or rough streets are the norm in the island towns and a pair of shoes with good support and traction is essential for climbing the hills and stairs.
• Swimming gear — water shoes are a must for swimming on the rocky coastline.
• Dress is casual on board with no need to dress-up for dinner (except for the first, all dinners are off the ship). The atmosphere is informal and very relaxed.
• Pack a hat with a necktie (so it doesn’t blow off!) for sun and wind protection.
• Likewise for layers of clothing. I would also pack a light rain jacket that can ALWAYS be put in your daypack. In one of the ports our boat arrived before space was available on the dock. This meant we were dropped off, and the boat anchored away from the dock until a space became available several hours later. In Hvar we were not prepared for rain and had a miserable, wet hour waiting for the boat’s return.

Interested in This Croatia Yacht Cruise from Split to Dubrovnik?

Fares for the 7-night Wonders of Croatia itinerary start at about $2,250 per person for the 2024/2025 seasons.

Check the Small Cruise Ship Collection web site for occasional specials and discounted fares.

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