Join us as we discover the beauty and wonders of the Adriatic, a captivating region that offers a delightful combination of lovely scenery and fascinating history. Our autumn cruise includes some charming places in both Italy and Croatia and over the course of ten nights we will immerse ourselves in the region’s rich heritage and cultural diversity whilst enjoying some stunning coastal scenery. Regular travellers to this part of the world will know that autumn is one of the loveliest times of year in the region; the summer crowds have departed and the weather is ideal for touring and sightseeing.
Our journey begins in Puglia, the heel of Italy, from where we make our way along the Adriatic coast of Italy and across to Croatia. We will call into cities and towns, learning of their intriguing history from our informative local guides. This is not an itinerary which a large cruise ship could operate but one which is ideal for the 50-passenger MS Monet. We are able to visit some marvellous places which do not cater for the big ships and our daily tours, accompanied by excellent local guides, will introduce you to the fascinating history of the region as we explore Medieval towns and delightful coastal cities. An added benefit of discovering the region by small ship is our ability to spend evenings in port which affords the opportunity to take a stroll after dinner in some marvellous places that are particularly atmospheric in the evening.
Monet
We are delighted to have chartered the MS Monet, a 220 foot motor yacht accommodating a maximum of 50 guests. Originally built in 1970, MS Monet was converted and launched as a passenger ship in 1998, fully renovated in 2016 and upgraded again in 2018. If you find large resort style vessels accommodating many thousands of passengers attractive then of course this isn’t the vessel for you. However, if you prefer an informal and warm atmosphere more akin to a private yacht combined with an itinerary dedicated to both discovery and relaxation then you need look no further.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Bari, Italy.
Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to the MS Monet in Bari and embark. Enjoy a welcome dinner on board and sail this evening.
Day 2 Manfredonia.
Our first call is on the Gargano, a mountainous promontory in the northernmost part of Puglia with a wonderful mix of beaches, lagoons and mountains. For centuries this region was isolated, and modern development was thwarted when the peninsula became a national park in 1991. This morning, we will follow the pilgrim trail to Monte Sant’Angelo where it is claimed archangel Michael made four appearances in the 5th century making this one of the earliest Christian shrines in Europe. We will visit the cave church dedicated to St Michael, the Medieval baptistery ‘Tomba di Rotari’, and the church of Santa Maria Maggiore.
Day 3 Ancona for Urbino or Loreto.
Today we head into the Italian Marches to visit the hilltop town of Urbino. The birthplace of the painter and architect Raphael, Urbino was an early centre of Renaissance art and culture during the 15th and 16th centuries. During our walking tour of this hilltop town, we will explore the winding streets, passing the birth house of Rafael and the Cathedral of Santa Maria as we make our way towards the UNESCO listed Palazzo Ducale, which dominates the crown of the hill. The impressive 15th century palace was once the seat of the Dukes of Urbino and today houses the National Art Gallery of the Marche. The collection includes works from Raphael and Titian, alongside many other Renaissance artists. Following our visit to the palace, we will enjoy lunch in a local restaurant before returning to the MS Monet in Ancona. Alternatively, visit the town of Loreto, where millions of worshippers gather each year at the shrine of the Holy House of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Explore the holy square with its famous basilica, before enjoying some free time in the town. Return to Ancona in time for lunch.
Day 4 Chioggia & Padua.
Over breakfast we sail into the Venetian lagoon for our visit to the city of Padua which is situated on the Venetian Plain. This historic city is home to one of the oldest universities in the world. Founded in 1222, the university has played host to names such as Galileo and Copernicus, and the botanical gardens have been granted UNESCO status. The city is also home to the Basilica di Sant’Antonio, an important pilgrimage site, and burial place of Saint Anthony of Padua. Admire the architecture and grand buildings of the historic city centre before returning to the vessel for lunch. We will spend the afternoon exploring the charming town of Chioggia. Affectionately named ‘Little Venice’, the colourful houses, bustling markets, and picturesque canals of the town offer a slower paced experience, without the crowds. Explore the fish markets that are still popular with many locals or admire the tranquil canals and Medieval churches of the old town.
Day 5 Trieste.
Overnight we sail to the port of Trieste. Tumbling down to the Adriatic from a wild, karstic plateau, the city is almost entirely surrounded by Slovenia and is geographically and culturally isolated from the rest of the Italian peninsula. As such, it preserves its own unique border-town mentality and retains a fascinating air of fluidity encapsulated in the ‘Triestino’ dialect, a strange mix of Italian, Austrian-German, Croatian and Greek. Exploring the city we see the Piazza Unita’ d’Italia, Italy’s largest sea-facing piazza and the 19th century city hall, which is flanked by the city’s grandest palazzi, including Palazzo del Municipio. Later we drive the short distance along the coast to the Castle of Miramare, located on the northern point of the Adriatic Sea. Formerly the home of Emperor Maximillian its interior is unique as each room resembles a different passion. The extensive 22-hectare castle grounds and gardens are rich and lush and feature thriving tropical species of trees and plants.
Day 6 Koper & Piran, Slovenia.
Over breakfast we sail the short distance to Koper for a day in Slovenia. This morning, we drive to Piran, one of the most photogenic cities in the Mediterranean. Influenced by the Venetian Republic, which left its mark on most Istrian towns, Piran has maintained the clustered Medieval structure of narrow winding streets, houses huddled close together and numerous squares and churches. Tartini Square is the gem found in the very centre of the city and named after the violinist and composer Giuseppe Tartini. After lunch on board the afternoon is free to explore Koper at your own pace or alternatively drive to Lipica, the village giving its name to the Lipizzan horse breed. We will visit the Lipica Stud Farm, one of the very first farms to develop the Lipizzan breed in the 16th century, for a guided tour and a show to learn more about their majestic horses.
Day 7 Rovinj, Croatia.
Sail today to the atmospheric town of Rovinj where the houses inside the old town are small and lean to each other creating a unique atmosphere. Our 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.
Day 8 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 which 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. Sail this evening.
Day 9 Korcula.
Spend the day on the island of Korcula, the reputed birthplace of the explorer Marco Polo. A morning guided tour will include a walk along Korcula’s crooked Medieval streets revealing elegant squares flanked with palaces of the old nobility. After lunch on board, we drive to the interior of the island, past olive groves and vineyards offering views down to the coast below. On our visit to a winery, we will learn more about the, mainly white, wines that have been cultivated on the island for centuries before enjoying a tasting.
Day 10 Split.
After breakfast we will take a guided walk through the town including the Palace of Diocletian which was 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 lunch and enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore further at your own pace. Alternatively, join us as we drive the short distance to the ancient site of Salona, the Roman capital of Dalmatia. Archaeologists have excavated the remains of temples, amphitheatres, early Christian churches and baths that served a city of over 40,000 people at its height.
Day 11 Split to London.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London.
Dates and Prices
24 October to 3 November 2026 | ||
---|---|---|
Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
D Twin/Double with portholes on Camille/Parisien Deck | £4795 | £4595 |
C Twin/Double with windows on Parisien/Lumiere Deck | £5195 | £4995 |
B Superior Double with windows on Lumiere Deck | £5695 | £5495 |
A Deluxe Double with windows on Lumiere Deck | £6295 | £6095 |
D Twin/Double with portholes on Camille/Parisien Deck for sole use | £6295 | £6095 |
Tour Reference Code: SCMO241026
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • 10 nights aboard MS Monet on a full board basis • House wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner • Noble Caledonia onboard team including Guest Speaker • Shore Excursions • Gratuities • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
Please be aware that our website does not display real-time availability. As a result, the categories and prices listed above are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please call us at 020 7752 0000 and speak with one of our experienced Travel Consultants.
Monet
We are delighted to have chartered the MS Monet, a 220 foot motor yacht accommodating a maximum of 50 guests. Originally built in 1970, MS Monet was converted and launched as a passenger ship in 1998, fully renovated in 2016 and upgraded again in 2018. If you find large resort style vessels accommodating many thousands of passengers attractive then of course this isn’t the vessel for you. However, if you prefer an informal and warm atmosphere more akin to a private yacht combined with an itinerary dedicated to both discovery and relaxation then you need look no further.
Also of Interest
Along the Adriatic Coast
A cruise from Pula to Dubrovnik aboard the Queen Eleganza
Itinerary at a glance
- Pula / Rovinj / Mali Losinj / Zadar / Sibenik / Primosten / Hvar / Korcula / Dubrovnik
Aegean & Adriatic Odyssey
A voyage between Athens & Split aboard the MS Monet
Itinerary at a glance
- Athens / Corinth Canal / Itea / Argostoli / Preveza / Sarande / Otranto / Lecce / Monopoli / Kotor / Dubrovnik / Korcula / Brac / Split
Hidden Treasures of the Adriatic
A voyage from Corfu to Dubrovnik including Albania & Montenegro aboard the MS Monet
Itinerary at a glance
- Corfu / Sarande / Vlores/ Durres/ Tirana / Shengjin/ Bar / Kotor / Dubrovnik
Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000