DAY 1 SATURDAY DUBROVNIK (D)
Transfer from Dubrovnik airport to the Dubrovnik Gruž harbor for check in from 14.00h onwards. After settling, transfer to city gates for a guided tour of the city. The special charm of this ancient town are the buildings that have remained from the time of the old Dubrovnik Republic. A larger part of the monuments belonging to the modest Renaissance architecture with some traces of the Gothic style. Take the cable car from the Old Town to Srđ mountain to enjoy scenic views of the Walls and Elaphiti Islands. After the tour, return transfer to the ship for a welcome meet & greet cocktail reception on board. Overnight in Dubrovnik.
DAY 2 SUNDAY DUBROVNIK – SLANO / STON (B, L, T, CD)
Departure to a small village called Slano on the mainland. Enjoy the magic scenery as the ship cruises around Dubrovnik city walls before continuing to one of the Elaphiti islands for a swim stop. Afternoon arrival in Slano, a peaceful fishermen’s village and our starting point to Ston, once fortified small village famous for its oysters. After exploring the town’s medieval ramparts we leave to small nearby village to learn more about oysters and tasting this delicious treat. Return transfer to ship, Captain`s dinner on board and overnight.
DAY 3 MONDAY SLANO – MLJET (B, L, D)
Next morning we head further north to the Island of Mljet. The legend says Greek hero Odysseus spent years on this island when he was captured by the nymph Calypso. Join the cruise manager for a stroll to the famous salt lakes in the Mljet National Park and enjoy the boat ride to the St Mary Isle to visit an ancient Benedictine monastery, an old abbey and a Church dating back to the 12th Century. Alternatively, you can rent kayaks, bicycles, scooters or convertible cars to roam around the National Park or island on your own, but beware of the nymphs. Time at leisure for dinner and overnight in port Polača or Pomena.
DAY 4 TUESDAY MLJET – KORČULA (B, L)
Early morning departure towards the Korčula island best known as the birthplace of Marco Polo. Stop for lunch in one of the secluded bays en route. Afternoon arrival in Korčula followed by a guided walking tour of this enchanting town surrounded by walls and one of the best preserved medieval cities in the Mediterranean. Fish bone street pattern was used in Korcula Old Town design to reduce effects of wind and sun and provide citizens with sheltered and comfortable accommodation. Korčula has an abundant choice of restaurants to enjoy a gourmet experience and numerous bars and clubs for those looking for evening entertainment. Optional excursion to small village near Korčula for typical Dalmatian dinner and to learn about the history and traditional way of living. Overnight in Korčula.
DAY 5 WEDNESDAY KORČULA – VIS (B, L, T)
Continue to the island of Vis, once a strategic naval Yugoslav base and closed to the public. Due to this isolation, Vis has a special charm – “the Mediterranean as it once was” making it really interesting to visit. Vis town, situated on the northern side of the island, has developed near the remains of the ancient Issa, first urban center in Croatia. Try some exquisite wine sorts in one of the Vis traditional wineries. If interested, visit the remains of the Roman thermal place, City museum or simply take a walk enjoying the views of the beautiful Villae Rusticae situated along the waterfront. Overnight in the port of Vis.
DAY 6 THURSDAY VIS – BIŠEVO (Blue Cave) / HVAR (B, L)
Early in the morning cruise towards small island Biševo to visit the Blue cave, a magnificent natural phenomenon (entrances to be paid on the spot – approx. 7 EUR). As sometimes weather conditions can be very unpredictable, the possibility of our visit will depend on those conditions, however you will be notified of this on time. Continue towards the jet-set island Hvar with a swim stop and lunch on board at the Pakleni Islands. Hvar, the longest and sunniest island in the Adriatic is known for lavish lavender fields and breathtaking beauty. Afternoon arrival followed by a short presentation of lavender products and a tour of the town – the Renaissance cathedral with its original tower, and the oldest community theatre in Europe founded in 1612. Hike up to the town fort overlooking the harbour to get some lovely scenic views of your ship and the Pakleni islands. In the evening Hvar offers an abundance of entertainment – numerous restaurants, bars and cafes are open long into the night. Overnight in the port.
DAY 7 FRIDAY HVAR – (BOL) SPLIT (B, L)
Morning departure to Brač island where swimming is planned at the most famous beach in Dalmatia – Zlatni Rat near Bol – whose gravel promontory shifts from side to side as the wind and waves constantly change in shape. Bol is a typical fishermen’s village converted into a popular tourist destination. Continue to Split to enjoy a guided tour of the city upon arrival, a historical town under UNESCO protection and as it is a part of the world heritage. One will find an abundance of Roman architecture – of special interest is the magnificent Diocletian palace, once inhabited by the Roman emperor. After the tour of Split, return to the ship and overnight in Split.
DAY 8 SATURDAY SPLIT Check ot (B)
Breakfast and time to say goodbye to the crew and all your new friends! Check out by 9.00 am and transfer to Split airport.
* Legend: B – breakfast; L – lunch; D – dinner; T – tasting
For more information contact : res@rufaro.co.za
