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Croatia & the Dalmatian Coast - Small Cruise Adventure with Stephanie Hansen
September 19 - 29, 2024
Welcome to an extraordinary travel experience meticulously crafted for the curious explorer. Join Stephanie Hansen on an unforgettable 10 day, 7-night voyage along the stunning Dalmatian Coast of Croatia aboard the Deluxe Superior ship, Avangard. This exclusive journey is not just a cruise; it's an immersive exploration of culture, cuisine, and the captivating beauty of the Adriatic Sea.
Highlights & Inclusions:
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7 Nights Aboard the Avangard
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2 nights in the 5* Dubrovnik Hilton Imperial
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Included Daily Breakfast & Lunch
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Exclusive Welcome & Farewell Dinners
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Professional Tour Director
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UNESCO Sites of Dubrovnik & Split
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Overnight in small ports of call
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Ports of call in; Slano, Ston, Mijet, Korcula, Vis, Hvar, Bol
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Oyster Tasting in Ston
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Croatian Olive Oil Tasting
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Croatian Wine Tasting
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Delicious Food Experiences
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Captains Dinner
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Intimate Cruise Experience
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Mijet National Park
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The Famous; Zlatni Rat Beach
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Leisure time throughout the trip
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And so much more!
Day 1: September 19
Fly To Croatia
Depart the United States for an overnight flight to Europe and Croatia! This travel experience begins and ends in Dubrovnik, Croatia. Airfare is NOT included in the land package, however, we are happy to help obtain flights for you. Hotel check in begins at 4PM at the Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik.
Day 2: September 20
Arrive In Dubrovnik, Croatia
Arrive in the city of Dubrovnik, Croatia before being joined by a local guide. Enjoy a walking tour of the area around the hotel before checking in (4PM check in). Tonight, meet fellow travelers hosted by Stephanie during a Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant.
Included Meals: Welcome Dinner
Day 3: September 21
Dubrovnik - Board Ship
Wander along the ancient, pedestrian-only limestone pathways, polished over centuries, while admiring the stunning blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. For a breathtaking panoramic view, take a cable car ride from the Old Town up to Mount Srđ, where you can gaze over the grand city walls and the picturesque Elaphiti Islands. Following the tour, we'll provide a return transfer to your vessel. There, you'll meet the crew and enjoy a welcoming evening of cocktails and dinner onboard, celebrating the exciting cruise week that lies ahead. Your first night will be spent in the enchanting city of Dubrovnik.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 4: September 22
Cruise; Slano (Ston)
Set sail for the quaint village of Slano on the mainland, taking in the enchanting views as you cruise around the Dubrovnik city walls. Along the way, pause at one of the Elaphiti Islands for a refreshing swimming break (weather dependent). Arrive in Slano by the afternoon, a serene fishing village that serves as your gateway to the historic town of Ston, renowned for its oysters and impressive medieval fortifications. Explore Ston's extensive ramparts before venturing to a nearby village to delve deeper into the world of oyster farming and enjoy a special tasting of these renowned delicacies. After some leisure time, a return transfer will take you back to your vessel. The evening promises a delightful Captain’s dinner accompanied by live entertainment onboard. Your night will be spent anchored at Slano.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Tasting, Captains Dinner
Day 5: September 23
Cruise; Slano - Mjlet
In the morning, we journey northward to the enchanting Island of Mljet, steeped in myth as the alleged haven where the Greek hero Odysseus was held captive by the nymph Calypso. Accompany the cruise manager for a leisurely walk to the renowned salt lakes in Mljet National Park, followed by a boat excursion to St Mary Isle. Here, you'll have the opportunity to explore an ancient Benedictine monastery, a historic abbey, and a church dating back to the 12th century. For a more adventurous experience, consider renting kayaks, or bicycles to independently discover the National Park's secrets. The night will be spent docked at either Polača or Pomena.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 6: September 24
Cruise; Mjlet - Korcula
Depart early in the morning for the island of Korčula, famously known as the birthplace of the explorer Marco Polo. Enjoy a leisurely lunch stop at one of the hidden bays you'll encounter along the way. Arriving in Korčula Town in the afternoon, you'll be treated to a guided walking tour of this captivating city, encircled by walls and recognized as one of the Mediterranean's most well-preserved medieval towns. The unique fishbone street layout was designed for natural cooling and comfort, offering shelter and a pleasant living environment for its residents. Korčula boasts a wide selection of restaurants for a gourmet dining experience and numerous bars for those seeking evening entertainment. There's also an optional excursion to a nearby village, offering a chance to indulge in a traditional Dalmatian dinner and learn about the area's history and lifestyle. Your night will be spent in Korčula.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 5: September 25
Cruise; Korcula - Vis
Set sail towards the island of Vis, an intriguing destination with a rich history dating back to the 4th century BC when it was a prominent Greek colony. Vis has largely remained off the typical tourist path, partly due to its past as a Yugoslavian army base until 1991. This unique history has helped preserve its culture and architecture remarkably well. The island is a natural haven, with wild rosemary, capers, and sage dotting its landscape. Take the opportunity to sample some of the island's exquisite local wines. For those interested in history and culture, consider visiting the remnants of the Roman thermal baths, the City museum, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk to admire the stunning Villae Rusticae along the waterfront. Your stay will conclude with an overnight in the port of Vis.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 8: September 26
Cruise; Vis - Bisevo (Blue Cave) - Hvar
Set off in the morning towards the small island of Biševo to explore the Blue Cave, a stunning natural wonder (the visit is subject to weather conditions). Afterward, cruise towards the chic island of Hvar, enjoying a swimming break and lunch aboard near the Pakleni Islands. Hvar, renowned for being the Adriatic's longest and sunniest island, is celebrated for its lush lavender fields and stunning beauty. Arrive in the afternoon and embark on a guided tour of Hvar. Visit the Renaissance cathedral with its intact tower, and the oldest public theatre in Europe, established in 1612. For panoramic views of the harbor, your vessel, and the Paklinski Islands, hike up the path to the town fort. Hvar is also famous for its vibrant nightlife, offering a plethora of restaurants, bars, and clubs that stay open well into the night. Your day concludes with an overnight stay in the port.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 9: September 27
Cruise; Hvar - (Bol) - Split
Depart for the island of Brač, where a swim at Dalmatia's most iconic beach, Zlatni Rat near Bol, awaits (weather dependent). This unique beach is known for its ever-changing shape, as the shingle promontory shifts with the wind and waves. Bol, originally a traditional fishing village, has transformed into a sought-after tourist destination while maintaining its quaint allure. Afterward, the journey continues to Split, where you'll join a guided tour upon arrival. This historic city, protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site, is sure to impress with its vibrant atmosphere and a wealth of sights and activities. Your day ends with an overnight stay in Split.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 10: September 28
Disembark; Split - Dubrovnik
Disembark the ship at 09:00. From Split we make our way south and back to Dubrovnik. Enjoy some free time before joining new friends at a special farewell dinner at a nearby restaurant in Dubrovnik.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Farewell Dinner
Day 11: September 29
Fly home from Dubrovnik
Following breakfast, depart the hotel (check out 10AM) in Dubrovnik for the airport or extend your stay in Europe.
Included Meals: Breakfast
M.V. Avangard
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Tour Price:
LOWER DECK CABIN RATE
$5999
PER PERSON
Lower deck cabins (147 - 189 sq. ft)
Fully air-conditioned cabins equipped with hairdryer, safe deposit box, LCD TV, internal phone and vanity. Lower Deck Cabins have portholes for windows.
(Based on 2 people in a cabin) Airfare is NOT included.
AIRFARE QUOTES
$1200 - 1999
PER PERSON
We are happy to offer an airfare quote for the trip to Croatia. Our staff can offer the quotes based on the trip schedule including if you decide to travel early or extend your stay in Europe. Average airfares from MSP to Dubrovnik are anywhere from $1200 - $1999
MAIN DECK CABIN RATE
$6499
PER PERSON
Main deck cabins (159 - 191sq ft.)
Fully air-conditioned cabins equipped with hairdryer, safe deposit box, LCD TV, internal phone and vanity.
(Based on 2 people in a cabin) Airfare is NOT included.
Trip Deposit & Payment
To secure your spot, a non-refundable deposit of $500 per person is required upon registration. We strongly recommend purchasing Travel Insurance for your peace of mind and security. To facilitate affordable pricing, we offer the option of cash payments. The prices listed are applicable for cash transactions. Should you opt to pay with a credit card, a processing fee will be applied at the time of 'checkout'. This fee varies between 2.9% to 3.9%, depending on the type of card used.
Final Payment
June 11, 2024
