Small ship cruising in Croatia
In addition, its long stretch of coast and myriad islands provide endless opportunities for exploration, but most of its ports are too snug for larger vessels or restrict their access.
It means this beautiful coastline is only properly accessible to the smallest ships, with the big cruise liners limited to stopping briefly at busy ports like Dubrovnik and Split.
Even just a week’s cruise will reveal the highlights and hidden gems of Croatia’s coast, with no need to queue for ferries or book accommodation.
Simply board your vessel and relax as it meanders through the Adriatic, stopping so you can swim in remote bays on islands like Korcula, eat lunch on islands such as Vis, where the slow food scene thrives, or cycle through pine forests like those on Mljet.
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So what is a small cruise ship?
As the name suggests, small cruise ships are nothing like the huge liners that carry hundreds of passengers and a vast crew. On average, small cruise ships accommodate no more than 40 passengers; they’re more like a moveable boutique hotel than a floating village.Cabins are comfortable, with en suite facilities and air-con, and the more luxury you go, the more treats you can expect – how does an on-deck pool sound? There’s always plenty of deck space, too, for simply relaxing and taking in the views.
Where can I go on a small ship cruise?
Most Croatian small ship cruises run between Split and Dubrovnik in the south of Croatia, travelling between the islands that pepper the shore. While public ferries run between individual islands and the mainland, if you want to actually explore from island to island, then the only way to do so is on an organised cruise.Cruises that leave from Dubrovnik tend to take in Central and Southern Dalmatian islands such as Vis, Hvar, Brac, Korcula and the stunning Mljet Island National Park. You may also have some of the Elaphiti Islands on your itinerary, which are close to Dubrovnik, the main ones being Lopud, Sipan and Kolocep.
Some cruises travel along the northern Croatian coast, exploring its peninsulas, islands and islets. Usually starting in Split, they head north and take in beauties such as the Zadar archipelago and the eponymous medieval town, as well as other northern jewels such as Rab, Krk, Losinj and Cres.
Don’t come expecting a strict itinerary, though. Changes in the weather can mean changes in routes. The captain is in charge and has the final say on each day’s sailing.
Things to do on a Croatia cruise
Hiking through the pine forests of Mljet or Losinj is a good way to rediscover your land legs, while climbing to the top of Mount St Vid, the Adriatic’s highest peak on the island of Brac, delivers wonderful views. Many small ship cruises include a guided kayaking trip, too, which is a great way to discover beaches and deserted islands, while being supervised and super safe in the process.
Best time to go cruising in Croatia
April to October is the best time to go on a small ship cruise in Croatia. From April, sea conditions are calmer and the islands are beginning to open for business. The water is starting to warm up, too, ready for swimming.Small ship cruising is a great option during the peak months of July and August, avoiding all the queues for the island ferries and sailing you to places well off the tourist trail and away from the crowds. If you do hop off the boat at popular spots such as Split or Dubrovnik, though, be prepared for crowds.
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Who is on board?
In general, the more expensive and more comfortable they are, the older the demographic. Consequently, ‘comfort’ cruises are mostly 35-65 year olds, whereas luxury cruises tend to be the 45-75 and older age group.
Can I travel solo or with kids?
You won’t generally find single cabins on small cruise ships, but you can pay a supplement for your own double cabin, or choose to share a twin cabin with someone of the same gender, at no extra cost.Children are welcome on board most ships, but some operators do impose age restrictions, so be sure to check. Small ship cruises are great for families, though, because you only unpack once, and yet you get to explore lots of different places. Just don’t expect a kids’ club…
Eating & drinking
Soaking up the atmosphere of a small Croatian harbour as the sun sets, grazing on wonderful food, is a pleasure that also puts money directly into the local economy.