Split, Zadar & Secrets of the North

Embark on the deluxe MS Adriatic Sky, moored in the ancient harbor. As you step on board this luxurious vessel, your home for the next seven nights, you will be welcomed by the friendly captain and crew, ready to help you settle in to your new surroundings. The rest of the day is at leisure so you can start to truly unwind in the company of your fellow passengers – just 38 of you. Perhaps take to the sun deck or wander ashore – whatever you choose it won’t be long before it’s time to enjoy dinner in the ship’s restaurant. Later perhaps head for an after-dinner drink in a local bar whilst soaking up the ambience of this historic and intriguing city.

Awake refreshed and draw back the curtains to witness the morning sun rising over the glistening water; now you’re really on holiday and home will feel a long way away. Over a leisurely breakfast, excitement mounts as our beautiful yacht-cruiser slips her moorings and we commence our Dalmatian adventure. The Dalmatian coastline is considered to be one of the most spectacular in Europe with mile upon mile of quiet beaches and calm, pretty, secluded bays perfect for swimming. The stark magnificence of the mountains sweeps dramatically into a fertile green landscape, studded with tiny stonebuilt hamlets set amongst lush fruit groves and beautifully preserved medieval towns. In the crystal waters of the Adriatic lies a sprinkling of alluring unspoilt islands and mysterious coves inviting discovery. During our cruise this morning we stop for a swim before lunch back on board. After, why not take to the deck and catch up on some reading whilst a kaleidoscope of breathtaking coastal views drifts idly by? Later we arrive at the port of Šibenik and enjoy a guided walking tour of this interesting little town. Wander through the delightful maze of its medieval old town, unchanged for centuries and see the remarkable cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece and one of the finest in the region. We remain moored in Šibenik overnight, so take dinner at your leisure in one of the many quaint local restaurants, whilst absorbing the infectious charms of this lovely area.

After breakfast, we take a drive inland to the Krka Valley where the River Krka flows through a series of lakes, gorges and rapids before heading out to sea. The valley in its entirety has been awarded national park status and we will visit part of this exquisitely beautiful area on this morning’s tour. Due to minerals dissolved in the water, the colours change from turquoise to azure-blue and vibrant green to steel-like greys. We will witness one of the most dramatic stretches of the river – several tiers of waterfall tumble fantastically into a broad, shallow pool. After lunch on board, we slip our moorings for an afternoon’s spectacular cruising. Enjoy the stunning island views from the comfort of a sun lounger up on deck, cool drink in hand, whilst the salty sea breeze invigorates you – it doesn’t get much better than this. Later we moor in the lovely coastal town of Vodice. You have free time to wander ashore and explore, so why not enjoy dinner at one of the many waterfront restaurants? The perfect spot to watch the mellowing sun in a blushing sky, as it slowly descends on the hazy horizon.

This morning we continue our journey northwards and after a leisurely breakfast, we stop for an invigorating swim in one of the many pretty bays along the rocky coastline. Back on board, we soon enter the waters of the Kornati archipelago, where a vast group of over 90 almost desert-like islands lie scattered around the central island of Kornat. The distinct barren landscape of theseislands was a designated national parkland in 1980 in celebration of their remarkably desolate beauty. With striking views at every turn, enjoy another delicious lunch before we arrive at our mooring in the ancient capital of Dalmatia, Zadar. This bustling coastal town with the style and charm of the Italian Riviera, was for centuries ruled by the Venetians. Home to Croatia’s oldest university, established by monks during the 14th century, sadly much of the historic centre was destroyed during World War II. We enjoy a guided tour before you are free to explore under your own steam. Perhaps visit the Romanesque cathedral with its beautifully carved stonework, or climb the bell tower for spectacular views over the city’s rooftops. Take a stroll on the promenade or wander the tangle of medieval streets, absorbing the sights and sounds of this cosmopolitan seaside town. Soon it’ll be time for dinner, so why not try one of the many cosy restaurants serving grilled meats or fresh fish dishes? You could end the evening with a glass of maraschino, a local cherry liqueur produced here since the16th-century.

As the sun rises above the rooftops of this historic port, we cast off once again and begin our journey southwards once more. After breakfast head up on deck to watch the picturesque islands of this enchanting archipelago. As the sun glints on the azure-blue depths, sit back and let this gloriously vivid coastal spectacle wash over you. Watch for the marine life in the crystal clear waters below, or chat with your fellow companions over a coffee – simply heavenly. We find time for a refreshing swim around the beautiful island of Vrgada, with its deserted golden beaches and clear warm waters, before lunch is served on board. We soon arrive in quaint Zlarin or picturesque Rogoznica, their attractive harbours set amidst a scenic landscape of cypress forest and the occasional vineyard. There’s time to wander the pretty waterfront and winding backstreets and as evening falls before heading back to the ship for the Captain’s Dinner, during which a selection of regional specialities will be served.

Rising refreshed this morning, the relaxed pace of this cruise continues as we cast off from our picturesque mooring and set sail once more. There is time to enjoy another swim stop on the island of Fumija, where the remains of the early medieval church of St Fumija and crumbling farm buildings of the Benedictine monks of Trogir can still be seen amidst the landscape. Back on board for lunch, it’s not long before we reach our next port of call, Trogir, a historic coastal gem with its imposing city walls, a wealth of ancient sights and classic waterfront neatly fringed with glossy palms. Founded by the Greeks there followed a succession of rulers who all left their mark here amongst the stately Romanesque and Renaissance buildings. At the heart of the old town, you’ll find the majestic cathedral, one of the most impressive in the Adriatic. We enjoy a guided walking tour seeing all the main sights. Later there’s time to explore this fascinating city at your leisure, perhaps head for the hustle and bustle of the local market before returning to the ship for the evening.

We enjoy a leisurely start this morning and after breakfast we continue our journey south. Make sure you make the most of this final morning on board, soaking up the sun on deck or enjoying a drink with newly-made friends in the bar. After a last lunch, it isn’t long before Split’s ancient skyline appears on the horizon once again as we begin our final approach into this unique and remarkable city. Fascinating and magnificent Split is principally famous for a single building, the Emperor Diocletian’s huge palace, one of the greatest structures of the Roman Empire. No expense was spared in its construction – the finest Italian marble with columns and sphinxes from Egypt. Truly astonishing though is that during medieval times this extraordinary palace was fully integrated into the town’s fabric with a jumble of buildings grafted onto and inside it – for example the Temple of Jupiter became a baptistry. You will find surprises at every turn – spiralling medieval buildings lining the streets, but buttressed by unmistakably Roman columns. We enjoy a guided walking tour of this fascinating complex, recently used as the setting of the epic TV series, Game of Thrones. Take dinner at your leisure whilst the ship remains moored in Split. Later, enjoy a final digestif on the sun deck and reflect on what has been a very special kind of holiday.

After breakfast, the crew bid you farewell as you disembark in Split.