Croatia Cruises

Explore the Wonders of Croatia with Cruise1st

Croatia is a breathtaking coastal paradise, known for its stunning landscapes, rich historical heritage, and vibrant culture. The country's Adriatic coastline, dotted with over a thousand islands, is a haven for sun-seekers and adventure enthusiasts alike. Fun fact: Croatia boasts eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the ancient city of Dubrovnik, often referred to as the "Pearl of the Adriatic". A cruise to Croatia allows you to immerse yourself in its picturesque towns, indulge in mouth-watering cuisine, and explore idyllic beaches—all while enjoying the comfort and elegance of your floating hotel.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Croatia Itineraries

• Cunard: With a fleet of 4, Cunard has 2 ships—Queen Victoria and Queen Anne—offering itineraries that include stops in Croatia. Known for opulence and a quintessential cruising experience, Cunard vessels offer refined dining and elegant entertainment. Most cruises to Croatia typically depart from international ports such as Trieste or Civitavecchia (Rome), putting cruisers right in the heart of beautiful Mediterranean scenery.
• MSC Cruises: MSC brings a fleet of 23 ships, 6 of which frequent Croatian ports. Leading the charge are MSC Opera and MSC Armonia, featuring family-friendly amenities and a stellar onboard experience. Cruises usually depart from Venice or Bari, making it easy for cruisers looking to visit the Croatian coast after exploring Italy's romantic cities.
• P&O Cruises: With a fleet of 7, P&O has 4 ships that cruise to Croatia, including Azura and Aurora. Renowned for their lively atmosphere and engaging activities, these ships cater to passengers who enjoy a vibrant sailing experience. Departures are typically from Valletta or Southampton, allowing for a fantastic blend of cultures before heading to Croatia.
• Holland America Line: With 11 ships in total, Holland America has 2 that visit Croatia—Oosterdam and Nieuw Statendam. These ships are celebrated for their excellent service and culinary offerings, ensuring a remarkable onboard experience. Cruises typically sail from Athens or Trieste, offering cruisers a chance to explore the stunning Aegean before arriving in Croatia.
• Princess Cruises: Featuring 17 ships, Princess has 5 sailing to Croatia, with Island Princess and Majestic Princess leading the pack. Known for their extensive itinerary options, these vessels allow guests to explore a wide range of ports. Most sailings depart from Civitavecchia (Rome) or from domestic ports such as Perth (Fremantle), giving cruisers various options before heading to the Croatian coastline.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to Croatia

• Seabourn: This luxury line operates a fleet of 6, with 1 ship—Seabourn Encore—cruising to Croatia. Known for their intimate atmosphere, Seabourn provides personalized service and extraordinary dining options. Most departures take place from Athens or Dubrovnik, allowing cruisers to savour the best of both worlds—luxury cruising and cultural exploration.
• Explora Journeys: With a fleet of 2, Explora has 1 ship—EXPLORA I—that visits Croatia. Known for its focus on sustainable luxury and deep immersion in local cultures, it promises a unique experience for travellers. Departures from Athens or Fusina (Venice) prepare guests for a charming journey through Croatia's stunning coastline.
• Azamara Cruises: With a fleet of 4, Azamara has 4 ships—Azamara Onward and Azamara Quest—visiting Croatia. Azamara is celebrated for its immersive destination experiences, allowing passengers to enjoy longer stays in port. Departures typically occur from Venice or Fusina (Venice), ensuring convenient access to Croatia's captivating destinations.
• Oceania Cruises: Oceania operates a fleet of 8, featuring 5 ships—Nautica and Marina—that include itineraries to Croatia. Focusing on culinary excellence and destination immersion, these cruises allow guests to indulge in local flavours. Departing most often from Civitavecchia (Rome) or Athens, cruisers can blend exquisite dining experiences with breathtaking exploration.
• Silversea: With a fleet of 12 ships, Silversea has 2 vessels—Silver Spirit and Silver Whisper—offering Croatian itineraries. Known for their luxurious all-inclusive experiences, these ships cater to discerning travellers. Departures commonly occur from Athens or Lisbon, giving guests a grand start to their cruise through Croatia.

Top Croatian Harbours to Explore

• Dubrovnik: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this walled city is famous for its stunning architecture and historical significance. Visitors can walk the city walls for panoramic views, explore the Old Town's cobblestone streets, or relax at the nearby Banje Beach. Don’t miss a visit to the historic Rector's Palace and enjoy local seafood at one of the waterfront restaurants.
• Split: Known for its Roman ruins, particularly Diocletian's Palace, Split offers a fascinating blend of history and modern life. Cruise passengers can wander the lively Riva promenade, sample local delicacies at the market, or take a day trip to nearby islands such as Hvar or Brač for incredible beaches and wineries.
• Zadar: This beautiful coastal town blends historic and modern attractions. Discover the ancient Roman Forum and enjoy the Sea Organ, an architectural marvel that creates music through the movement of the waves. Take a stroll along the waterfront and try local dishes such as seafood risotto or homemade pastries!
• Korcula: Known as the birthplace of Marco Polo, this island town features charming narrow streets and lovely beaches. Visitors can explore Korcula’s fortified old town, learn about Ming Dynasty-era architecture, or indulge in a local wine tasting experience, particularly the region's famed Grk wine!
• Hvar: Famous for its vibrant nightlife, Hvar also offers stunning beaches and historical sites. While here, stroll through the charming town with its picturesque squares, visit the 16th-century Hvar Fortress for panoramic views, or take a day to swim in secluded bays on nearby islands.

When to Book Your Cruise to Croatia

Croatia shines at various times of the year! From April to June, temperatures range from 15-25°C, making it an excellent time for outdoor adventures and sightseeing without the summer crowds. July to August sees warmer conditions, reaching up to 30°C, perfect for beach lovers and sun seekers. Autumn (September and October) offers mild weather at around 10-20°C, ideal for hiking and enjoying the stunning fall colours.

Cost Overview for Cruises to Croatia

A cruise to Croatia typically ranges from $1,500 to $2,500 AUD for a week-long adventure and can vary from $3,000 to $5,500 AUD for two weeks. For those looking for a luxurious getaway, expect prices starting from $4,500 AUD for a week and potentially hitting $9,000 AUD for two weeks. Meals are commonly included in cruising packages, but if you dine locally, costs can range from $15-40 AUD, while drinks will hover around $10-15 AUD.

Alternative Regions Worth Considering

If you’re considering a cruise to Croatia, you might also want to explore these intriguing alternatives:

• Adriatic Sea: Known for its breathtaking coastlines and charming islands, the Adriatic offers a diverse cruising experience that captures the very best of Mediterranean culture and cuisine.
• Albania: With its stunning beaches and rich history, Albania is an emerging cruise destination that provides an exciting glimpse into the Balkans with its unexplored landscapes and vibrant culture.
• Greece: With its renowned islands, delicious cuisine, and ancient ruins, a cruise through Greece offers countless opportunities to explore the wonders of the Mediterranean.
• Montenegro: Known for its stunning fjord-like bays and historic towns, Montenegro is rich in natural beauty and culture, making it a fantastic complement to a Croatian cruise.
• Italy: From the romantic canals of Venice to the beautiful Sicilian coast, Italy offers a wealth of experiences that cater to every type of traveller and pairs beautifully with a trip to Croatia.

Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through Croatia? Cruise1st can help you book the perfect cruise tailored to your interests, filled with memorable experiences that await you in this beautiful Mediterranean gem!