Hidden Gems of the Croatian Riviera

Your Adriatic cruise begins in Croatia, in the dazzling city of Dubrovnik. Here, you will be transferred to your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht to embark on a voyage to discover the hidden gems of the Croatian Riviera.   Please book your flight to arrive into Dubrovnik prior to 07:00 PM.

Enjoy another fascinating day exploring the city of Dubrovnik. Be awed by the impressive Rectors Palace, a 15th-century Gothic Renaissance palace that was once the administrative centre of Dubrovnik. Enjoy a drink on the Stradun, the main thoroughfare through the city, and take a walk along the ancient city walls for panoramic views over the rooftops and Adriatic Sea. 

Split is a stunning city laden with culture, history, and striking architecture. Take a stroll along the Riva, a palm-lined promenade that is the beating heart of the city, past beautiful terraces and bustling eateries with harbour views. Built from the 4th century AD and added to over millennia, the ruins of the Diocletians Palace dominate the city centre. This incredible UNESCO World Heritage Site comprised an imperial residence, military fortress, fortified town, with gates and walls; its remnants housing myriad bars and cafés today. 

In the morning, get ready to set sail from Split to Zadar, cruising close to Pašman and Biograd islands. Zadar is somewhat of a hidden Croatian gem, a captivating blend of ancient history and modern charm. As you stroll through its cobbled streets, youll encounter spectacular Roman ruins, including the well-preserved Roman Forum constructed between the 1st Century BC and 3rd Century AD, and the majestic St. Donatus Church, a symbol of the citys rich heritage. You’ll be mesmerised by the Sea Organ. These stone carvings along the promenade were designed so the lapping waves create natural and hauntingly beautiful melodies. As the sun disappears, be captivated by Sun Salutation, a dazzling solar-powered installation that lights up at night. 

On the western peninsula of Croatia, southwest of the city of Rijeka, Opatija has alluring views across the Adriatic towards the Kvarner Islands and the distant Istrian Mountains. Known as the ‘Nice of Croatia’, Opatija was a seaside resort for the aristocratic class during the Austro-Hungarian Empire and it retains its lovely seaside promenades, handsome villas and manicured parks and gardens. 

Piran is a pretty town of red-tiled and whitewashed buildings clustered on the tip of Slovenia’s Piran Peninsula. Part of the Venetian Empire from the late 13th century to the end of the 18th century, Piran is known for its Gothic-style Venetian architecture. The town has a history of salt panning and its landscape is also dotted with olive groves and pebbly beaches. Restaurants line the waterfront and many serve seafood direct from the Adriatic, but you’ll also notice the Italian influences with gelaterias and pizzerias.

Today, you will arrive in Venice, a truly enchanting city that exudes an evocative atmosphere not found anywhere else in the world. Established in the 5th century, this romantic city was founded in the 5th century and stretches across 118 small islands of the marshy Venetian Lagoon. The grandeur of this city needs no introduction, from its legendary canals to magnificent St Mark’s Basilica. It’s a spectacular city to get lost in, with its maze-like alleyways and vibrant squares. Your luxury yacht will spend the evening in Venice, giving you the opportunity to settle into a quaint bar or cruise down a canal in a gondola when the city lights start begin to twinkle. 

Your Emerald Cruises voyage concludes here. From your luxury yacht, you will be transferred to the airport for your journey home or to continue your holiday.  Please book your flight to depart out of Venice after 11:00 AM. The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Emerald Cruises cannot guarantee the cruise will operated unaltered from the itinerary states above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.