Join us for this exploration of Croatia’s spectacular coastline between Opatija and Split, a land of stunning scenery and equally enthralling architecture where landscapes have all the appeal of an Edward Lear painting. When devising the itinerary for the vessel which accommodates just 36 guests we did so with the view that we have a private yacht and were therefore able to create a journey that is somewhat different from regular cruises. Whilst Croatia itself is no longer a secret, this new and appealing itinerary steers clear of the well-trodden tourist trail and is timed for autumn when you can wander through the delightful towns and cities in the absence of summer crowds.
During our exploration of the region we will walk the atmospheric old town of Rovinj, visit one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheatres in the world in Pula and spend an afternoon inland exploring Krka National Park, a magical place of waterfalls and gorges. We will also travel to the Istrian interior, an area of disarming beauty characterised by fertile valleys with hilltop villages, where we explore the captivating walled town of Motovun, located in the middle of truffle territory with breathtaking views from its ramparts. In addition we will visit the historic cities of Zadar, Sibenik and Split with their history dating back through the Middle Ages to the Roman Era, and the charming islands of Cres and Mali Losinj.
This heady mix of ports and islands represents a fascinating itinerary combining as it does some ‘must see’ sites together with some quieter spots that the Croats themselves escape to. For those who enjoy discovering Medieval towns, exploring Roman sites and cruising amongst some of the world’s most beautiful coastal scenery whilst accompanied by a small group of like-minded travellers, our journey along the coast of Croatia will surely appeal.
Useful links & Travel Advice
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Queen Eleganza
For our cruises along the Adriatic coast, we are delighted to have chartered the Queen Eleganza which was launched in April 2018. Beautifully crafted by Croatian hands, this is one of the finest Croatian flagged vessels of her kind and, with a maximum of just 36 guests, there is the added benefit of a relaxed and informal atmosphere on board. The team of friendly Croatian crew members all speak English and their excellent service and hospitality will do much to add to your enjoyment. Meals served on board have a home-cooked feel and feature wholesome, fresh and tasty Mediterranean cuisine and, when dining ashore independently, your knowledgeable Cruise Director will recommend popular local restaurants. This is the perfect ship to escape the formalities of larger vessels and enjoy the casual nature of small ship cruising along the most beautiful of coastlines.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Opatija, Croatia.
Fly by scheduled flight to Zagreb and transfer to the Queen Eleganza in Opatija. After settling into your cabin, enjoy welcome drinks and dinner. We will moor overnight allowing time to enjoy an evening walk in this genteel resort. (D)
Day 2 Cres.
During breakfast we will cruise to the nearby island of Cres, mooring in the sheltered scenic Medieval harbour at Cres Town. Enjoy a walk through the atmospheric streets which have a strong Italian feel having been under Venetian rule in the 15th and 16th centuries. We will continue to the former fort city of Lubenice. Situated on a cliff 378 metres above the sea we will explore the fortress, city gates, houses, chapels and winding streets of this evocative site and enjoy the stunning views over the bay below. Dine on board this evening and perhaps take an after dinner stroll along the seaside promenade. (B, L, D)
Day 3 Rovinj.
Sail today to the Istrian peninsula and the atmospheric town of Rovinj where the houses inside the old town are small and lean into each other creating a unique atmosphere. Our afternoon guided walking tour will include a visit to the town’s main landmark, St Euphemia Church, which is built on the top of a small hill. This Baroque building built in Venetian style was dedicated to the saint and martyr whose sarcophagus, according to a legend, was miraculously washed ashore somewhere around 800 AD. (B, L)
Day 4 Motovun & Momjan.
Today we will travel to the Istrian interior, an area famed for its picturesque villages, vineyards producing fine Malvasia and Teran wines and the forests that produce Istrian white truffles. On a morning walking tour we will explore Motovun which is perched on a hill in the Mirna River Valley with its Romanesque-Gothic bell tower, the Renaissance Church of St Stephen, designed by Andrea Palladio, and the charming central square. After a lunch of local specialities we will head into the agricultural area around Momjan where some of Croatia’s finest olives and vines have been grown for thousands of years. We will visit a local vineyard and enjoy a tasting of the Muscat and Malvasia wines which are typical of the region before sampling the olive oil. Return to the ship, which has sailed to Pula, for dinner on board. (B, L, D)
Day 5 Pula & Mali Losinj.
Spend the morning at the tip of the Istrian Peninsula and the former Roman settlement of Polensium, now known as Pula. On a morning tour we will discover one of the best preserved Roman amphitheatres in the world. The Arena, built in the 1st century AD was designed to host gladiatorial contests with seating for up to 20,000 spectators. Exploring the town further we will see the varied architecture including Baroque palaces, Christian churches and Austrian villas. Sail this afternoon to Mali Losinj which sits at the foot of a protected harbour on the southeast coast of Losinj Island. It is the island’s mild climate and rich flora that gave Mali Losinj its reputation as one of the most fragrant islands in Croatia; its air is scented with lavender, sage and rosemary. The seafront of the old town is lined with a string of imposing 19th century houses and villas. Dine ashore tonight in this stunning location. (B, L)
Day 6 Zadar.
After a morning sailing we arrive at Zadar. Once a dominant city on the Adriatic Coast rivalling Venice, Zadar is today a treasured city that has preserved its historical core. Enjoy an afternoon walking tour strolling around the Old Town with its Roman columns and portals, Romanesque churches and Renaissance and Baroque palaces. Of particular interest are the 9th century circular Church of St Donat and the 13th century Romanesque cathedral. In the evening we have the chance to dine in one of the many restaurants in Zadar as we moor overnight. (B, L)
Day 7 Sibenik & Krka National Park.
After a morning cruising we arrive in Sibenik where we visit the majestic waterfalls of Krka. We will take a guided walk on wooden walkways and across bridges through this unique fjord-like landscape with its multiple waterfalls and interesting flora and fauna. Return to Sibenik and enjoy an early evening walking tour through the historic town seeing the Cathedral of St James, the old city walls and the theatre before taking the chance to dine ashore. (B, L)
Day 8 Split.
Sail today to Split and this afternoon we take a guided walk through the town. Explore the Palace of Diocletian, built by the emperor in 295-305 AD as his retirement villa. Much of this large building is well preserved and the palace contains Split’s old town within its walls, making it the only Roman palace that has been continuously inhabited since Roman times. It is a wonderful spot to wander the maze of streets. Return to the ship for our farewell dinner on board. (B, L, D)
Day 9 Split to London.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London. (B)
Dates and Prices
27 October to 4 November 2022 | ||
---|---|---|
Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
1 Twin/Double cabin on the Lower Deck | £2395 | £1995 |
2 Twin Cabin on the Main Deck | £2395 | £1995 |
3 Twin Cabin on the Main Deck | £2695 | £2295 |
4 Twin/Double cabin on the Main Deck | £2995 | £2595 |
5 Double cabin on the Main Deck | £3295 | £2895 |
6 Double cabin on the Lower Deck for sole use | £2395 | £1995 |
Tour Reference Code: SCQE271022
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Eight nights aboard the Queen Eleganza • Meals as indicated (B -Breakfast, L - Lunch, D - Dinner) • Wine, beer & soft drinks with included lunches and dinners • Shore excursions • Noble Caledonia Cruise Director • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes • Airport taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
Queen Eleganza
For our cruises along the Adriatic coast, we are delighted to have chartered the Queen Eleganza which was launched in April 2018. Beautifully crafted by Croatian hands, this is one of the finest Croatian flagged vessels of her kind and, with a maximum of just 36 guests, there is the added benefit of a relaxed and informal atmosphere on board. The team of friendly Croatian crew members all speak English and their excellent service and hospitality will do much to add to your enjoyment. Meals served on board have a home-cooked feel and feature wholesome, fresh and tasty Mediterranean cuisine and, when dining ashore independently, your knowledgeable Cruise Director will recommend popular local restaurants. This is the perfect ship to escape the formalities of larger vessels and enjoy the casual nature of small ship cruising along the most beautiful of coastlines.
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Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000