Western Balkans & Adriatic Paradise - Zagreb to Split Cruise 2026

Itinerary + Map

DAY 1 Zagreb
Welcome to Zagreb - the cultural heart of Croatia! On arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your own leisure. In the evening, meet your Tour Manager and get to know your fellow travellers over dinner.

Stay at: Hotel Astoria (4 star) or similar
Meals included: Dinner

DAY 2 Zagreb – Ljubljana
A morning city tour of Zagreb takes you to the fortified Upper Town, the city’s historical centre, where you will see the multi-coloured roof of St. Mark’s Church, the Cathedral, the Croatian National Theatre, and the University. Afterwards depart for Slovenia's capital, Ljubljana. Here embark on a guided tour where you will see the most significant sights of the old centre including the picturesque Central open-air Market and the Three Bridges, the Baroque Town Hall, and Robba’s Fountain.

Stay at: Hotel Lev (4 star) or similar
Meals included: Breakfast and dinner

DAY 3 Ljubljana – Bled - Plitvice
This morning travel to Bled, a small town in Slovenia’s Julian Alps that ranks among the most beautiful alpine resorts. Explore Bled Castle, the oldest castle in Slovenia. It is like a setting for a classic fairy tale with the beautiful mountains and forests surrounding an emerald glacial lake. Before leaving, perhaps sample the famous local treat, a Bled Cream Cake. After, continue to Plitvice lakes for the night.

Stay at: Hotel Jezero (3 star) or similar
Meals included: Breakfast and dinner

DAY 4 Plitvice – Split
This morning, head into the National Park to walk around the magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site, which has 16 crystal-blue lakes cascading into 92 spectacular waterfalls. Continue to Split and board your cruise vessel where you will be warmly welcomed by your Cruise Manager and crew. After settling into your cabin, you are free to explore the ancient pathways of the Diocletian's Palace and the vibrant Riva promenade. The town exudes a lively atmosphere, with cafes spilling out onto sun-drenched squares, inviting both locals and visitors to enjoy a leisurely coffee and soak in the vibrant ambiance. Return to the ship this evening for dinner onboard.

Meals included: Breakfast and dinner

DAY 5 CRUISE: Split - Vis

After breakfast, set sail towards Vis Island. Along the way, stop for a swim near the Pakleni Islands, a breathtaking archipelago near the island of Hvar with hidden coves and pristine beaches. Lunch will be served on board as you continue your journey towards Vis, arriving in the early afternoon. Once a secluded military enclave, Vis has opened its doors to the public in the past 25 years, revealing a treasure trove of spectacular scenery, renowned wines, and exquisite Dalmatian cuisine. Delve into the island's rich history and natural splendour at your own pace.

Meals included: Breakfast and lunch

DAY 6 CRUISE: Vis - Korcula
Enjoy a picturesque swim and lunch in a secluded cove before arriving to Korcula in the afternoon. The town is known for its rich history and culture, including the captivating Moreska sword dance, and for being the birthplace of the famed explorer Marco Polo. Navigate the timeless charm of Korcula Town on a captivating walking tour. Begin at the historic Land Gate as you wander through narrow alleyways lined with Renaissance buildings and artisan shops. Admire the majestic Cathedral of St. Mark and stroll along the waterfront promenade, soaking in panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea. After, you can join a special Optional Excursion to taste local Gin and Honey in a private household near Korcula.

Meals included: Breakfast and lunch

DAY 7 CRUISE: Korcula - Dubrovnik
Enjoy a revitalising swim in the crystal-clear waters near Jakljan Island, followed by a delightful onboard lunch. Arrive in Gruz Harbour, Dubrovnik in the early afternoon and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and cultural heritage. A transfer will take you to the Old Town gate where you will stroll down the Stradun on a guided walking tour. Hear the tales of the iconic sights such as the city walls and Rector's Palace. Later, there is an Optional Excursion to the Peljesac Peninsula to sample local exquisite wine and savour the flavours of Dalmatia or remain in the Old Town and discover its magic by night.

Meals included: Breakfast and lunch

DAY 8 CRUISE: Dubrovnik - Mljet
This morning, arrive at Pomena where you can embark on an Optional Excursion of Mljet National Park. Renowned as one of Croatia’s national treasures, Mljet National Park enchants visitors with its lush greenery and pristine natural beauty. The park is home to two stunning salt lakes, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim or leisurely stroll along their shores. There are also opportunities for walking and biking around the lakeshore. Following your exploration of the park, enjoy your free time to further immerse yourself in the island's enchanting atmosphere. In the evening, indulge in a Captain's dinner, a special culinary experience highlighting local flavours and specialties.

Meals included: Breakfast and dinner

DAY 9 CRUISE: Mljet - Hvar
Today, enjoy a refreshing swim break in front of the scenic island of Scedro as you sail to Hvar Island. Lunch will be served onboard before arriving into Hvar Town in the afternoon to join a walking tour exploring this charming town. Hvar Island is known as one of the sunniest destinations in Europe, and its town stands as one of Croatia's oldest. Its rich history, stunning architecture, cobbled streets, and vibrant atmosphere enchant every visitor.

Meals included: Breakfast and lunch

DAY 10 CRUISE: Hvar - Split
On the way back to Split, stop for one last swim in the refreshing waters of the Island of Brac and then enjoying lunch onboard before arriving into Split. Learn about this city, steeped in history, on a guided walking tour to uncover its story, witnessing the majestic Saint Domnius Cathedral, the lively Peristyle Square and the historic Temple of Jupiter. The evening is free to enjoy the delights of this modernised city.

Meals included: Breakfast and lunch

DAY 11 CRUISE: Split
Enjoy breakfast before saying goodbye to your fellow travellers and crew. Disembark in Split at approximately 9.00hrs and be transferred to the Airport or city located hotel.

Meals included: Breakfast

  • Arrival Transfer
  • Departure Transfer
  • Cruise Manager
  • Daily cabin service
  • Fresh towels and bed linen mid week
  • 8 day cruise in a sea-view cabin
  • Free Wi-Fi in public areas on cruise
  • 3 day land tour on an air-conditioned coach
  • 3 nights accommodation in 3-4 star hotels

Exclusions: Port fees and tourist taxes (EUR55* per person), Mljet National Park entrance fees (EUR15* per person), optional tours/excursions, gratuities.

*Prices are subject to change and are to be paid locally.

  • 10 breakfasts
  • 5 lunches
  • 5 dinners including Captain’s Dinner with live music
  • Welcome reception with drink and snack on cruise
  • Complimentary water, tea, coffee and fresh fruit daily on cruise
  • Complimentary afternoon snack daily on cruise
  • Guided tours of:
    Zagreb
    Ljubljana
    Bled
    Plitvice Lakes National Park
    Dubrovnik
    Korcula
    Hvar
    Split
  • Entrance fees:
    Bled
    Plitvice Lakes National Park
  • Other optional excursions to be booked and paid for locally

Western Balkans and Adriatic Paradise Cruise 2026 Pricing

Prices are per person in Australian Dollars (AUD)

MS Lupus Mare Boat Information

Boat 1: MS Lupus Mare

  • Built: 2011
  • Refurbished: 2023
  • Length: 43 m
  • Width: 9 m
  • Speed: 16 – 22 km/h
  • Cabins: 15
  • Capacity: 34
  • Sun Deck with jacuzzi
  • Sauna
  • Gym
  • Cinema room
  • Outdoor lounge
  • Salon restaurant
  • Bar
  • Swimming platform

 

Deck Cabin Bedding Size (sqm) Window To Open
Main Deck Standard Double/Twin 13-14 Window Yes
Lower Deck Standard Double/Twin 12-17 Porthole No
  • Lower Deck: 5 cabins
  • Main Deck: 10 cabins

Amenities

  • En-suite
  • Air-conditioning
  • Toiletries
  • TV
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Wardrobe
  • Desk

FAQS

This Adriatic and Balkans cruise and land tour takes you through Croatia and Slovenia, combining cultural capitals, alpine landscapes, and Adriatic island cruising in one seamless journey. You’ll experience inland highlights such as Zagreb, Ljubljana, Lake Bled and Plitvice Lakes, before continuing to Croatia’s coastline and Dalmatian Islands for relaxed small-ship cruising along the Adriatic.

This Adriatic coast cruise is different because it combines inland Balkan highlights with relaxed small-ship cruising, rather than focusing only on the coastline. It also explores beyond Croatia, heading into the stunning areas of Lake Bled and Ljubljana in Slovenia.

In terms of what sets it apart from other operators, Cruise Croatia prioritises authentic experiences, overnight stays in historic towns and islands, and a comfortable, unhurried pace. With long-standing local partnerships and carefully curated itineraries, this land-and-cruise tour lets you experience the Adriatic and Western Balkans meaningfully and at a pace that works for all.

Our Adriatic and Balkans cruises are a good combination of both land and sea. You’ll spend a total of three nights and days on land, staying in 3-4-star accommodation. This section of the tour will take in Zagreb, Slovenia and Plitvice Lakes. From day four, you will board the MS Lups Mare in Split, where you will spend the rest of the itinerary travelling by sea aboard this beautiful deluxe boat.

Our Balkans and Adriatic cruises are ideal for Australian travellers who value cultural depth, authenticity, and a relaxed pace over fast-moving sightseeing or large-ship cruising. They particularly appeal to Aussies who enjoy combining inland exploration with small-ship cruising, overnight stays in historic towns and islands, and time to experience local life.

These journeys are best suited to those seeking a thoughtfully curated, destination-focused experience, with comfortable travel, expert local insight, and the chance to explore the Adriatic and Western Balkans in a more meaningful and unhurried way.

Choosing Cruise Croatia means travelling with a true specialist in small-ship cruising and Balkan itineraries, not a mass-market cruise operator. With over 30 years’ experience and deep local partnerships throughout Croatia and the Western Balkans, our journeys are carefully designed to showcase genuine places, cultural connections, and overnight stays in ports rather than rushed day visits.

Our Balkans cruises are thoughtfully paced and destination-focused, combining inland highlights with relaxed Adriatic cruising for a richer understanding of this intriguing region. Supported by knowledgeable local guides, family-owned, small-ship operators, and excellent customer service, you’ll experience the Balkans in a way that feels personal, comfortable, and truly authentic.