Croatia is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Europe, that is home to stupendous cities, outstanding panoramas, dazzling lights, wonderful islands, romantic beaches, bays, and a good number of national parks. Being one of the sunniest spots in Europe, the weather here remains pleasant for the better part of the year, with May, June, July, August, and October, having 10 to 13 hours of sunshine a day.
Of Croatia’s top destination cities, the Dalmatian Coast is the ultimate destination when you want to go on an Eastern Europe cruise adventure. Its Adriatic Sea waters are sparkling, calm turquoise, with gorgeous beaches where you can soak up and relax. Dalmatian Coast cruises will give you an experience of Croatia’s glory by sea, by taking you to the best fashionable waterfront resorts and beautiful seaside cities, nearby islands, where you can explore and discover Croatia’s charm, culture, and history. The cruise season runs from mid-April up to mid-October. You can either choose to explore the Dalmatian coast via day cruises, local cruises, sailing cruises, super-ship cruises, or luxury cruises.
Best 3 of Dalmatian Coast Cruises
1. Opatija to Dubrovnik
You can start your Dalmatian coast cruise adventure from the charming and fashionable seaside resort of Opatija. Popular in the 19th century with the elites and the wealthy, Opatija offers you incredible views of the neighboring islands and the coastline. From the resort, you explore first the Rab Island that is known as the island of love as it is here that King Edward VII and his married lover had romantic escapades.
From Rab Island proceed to Zadar, a city hub with Venetian and Roman architecture, over 30 churches, and modern art installations at the seafront. There is a private guided excursion to the local winery where you enjoy some wine tasting, proceed to Krka National Park to enjoy the spectacular Skradinski Buk, Discover the Sibenik quaint charm, the Cathedral of St James that is triple-naved and UNESCO listed. Then, take a detour to the banks of river Neretva to explore Europe’s last remaining wetland deltas, visit the Vid Archaeological Museum, then depart to Korcula island.
As you cruise towards Dubrovnik, you see magnificent walls that are an ancient defensive mechanism of the city, then admire the well-preserved buildings and architecture on dry land. A ride on a cable car to Mount Srd will give you the best panoramic views of this town.
2. Split to Dubrovnik
This sail is one of the most popular Dalmatian coast cruises. The Split city has iconic attractions like the Diocletian’s Palace, and over 200 buildings with shops, restaurants, and cafes. Then continue to Brac Island to swim and sunbathe on the most photographed beach or Croatia- Zlatni Rat (Golden Cape). Proceed to the sunniest resort of Dalmatian, Hvar, for cultural and entertainment options. Proceed to Korcula Island, the birthplace of Marco Polo the world explorer. En route Dubrovnik, visit Mljet National Park where there are jewel-colored lakes and the fauna and flora are gorgeous.
3. Opatija to Opatija
This cruise offers you a round trip from Opatija to Opatija, exploring the little, picturesque fishing towns along the coastline. Opatija offers horticultural attractions of Angiolina Park, artistic exhibitions at Arts Pavilion, and observes a collection of treasures at the Croatian Museum of Tourism. You can take an excursion to Volosko, relax and enjoy the ambiance at the pavement café, or wine and dine at the local taverns of Kastav, or hike Mount Ucka or Vojak. You get to enjoy the scenery and culture all in one Croatia Cruise.
Opatija has no beaches but has many sheltered bays where you can enjoy a swim, and observe the dolphins dance playfully in the turquoise sea. Don’t forget to take a leisure stroll along the stylish seafront of the Lungomare promenade, where you can see the spectacular ocean scenery over delicious food and drinks in one of the many bars, cafes, and restaurants.
Conclusion
Croatia is a safe country to visit and go on a cruise. The overall crime levels are really low, and the violent crimes are very rare too. However, it is always advisable that you stay aware of your surroundings.