2022 July 8 to 17
Prices listed are per person:
Shared Room: Lower Cabin $6598
Shared Room: Main Cabin $6998
Private Room: Lower Cabin $8998
Private Room: Main Cabin $9398
Physical Challenge
Highlights
Explore the historic city of Dubrovnik
Cruise the Adriatic Sea while island hopping
See Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO Heritage Site
Enjoy the island of Hvar, one of Croatia’s Harbour towns
Swim at Croatia’s most famous beach, Zlatni Rat
Kayak to a clothing-optional beach on Lokrum Island
Hike through Mljet’s national park
Zipline through the mountains and over a gorgeous river
Overview
Croatia is the Mediterranean destination to see – with its blend of great food and delicious wine, its rugged and dramatic Adriatic coastline, the translucent purity of its sea, and the generally easygoing attitude of the locals themselves. These pearls of the South Adriatic will leave you with an abundance of memories as we visit Dubrovnik, the lakes of Mljet island, Golden Cape and the most beautiful beach located on Brač Island. It is had to believe that this country was once a war zone almost two decades ago. Croatia is a well established safe, independent and tourist-friendly country.
**Please note this is not a private departure.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive and Relax
We will arrive in Dubrovnik, after a long day of traveling for most. Kick back and enjoy your scenic transfer from the airport to your hotel. Check-in and take the rest of the day to rest up and enjoy one of the most exquisite hotels in the area. Relax poolside, at the beach, in the spa, hit the gym, or explore the city.
Day 2: Kayaking – Clothing Optional Beach
Our adventure starts this morning as we head out in our kayaks and begin to explore Dubrovnik, the Pearl of the Adriatic! This expedition will have us paddle along the Adriatic coast starting just beneath the Lovrijenac Fort in Port Pile. (This is one of many set locations for The Game of Thrones.) Lokrum Island will be our main stop today, which is a popular clothing-optional gay beach. Here we will hit the water for some snorkeling and snacks. Afterward, we will head back to the hotel for our belongings and make our way to our boat to enjoy our afternoon on our boat and enjoy our Welcome Dinner.
Day 3: Dubrovnik City Tour – Slano
After breakfast, we will head out on a walking tour to discover more of Dubrovnik; founded more than 13 centuries ago. This old city is one of the most attractive cities of the Mediterranean, the center of contemporary cultural and tourist events with unique political and cultural history.
After lunch on board, we will depart Dubrovnik and cruise around the city walls to one of the 14 Elaphiti Archipelago Islands for a swim stop. Then we will continue to Slano, a peaceful fisherman’s village. This island is famous for its oysters so after we explore the town, we will head to a nearby village for an oyster tasting.
Day 4: Mljet Saltwater Lakes- Korcula
Today we will sail out to the hidden port of Pomena, on the Island of Mljet, located on the south of the Adriatic coast. This beautiful island is situated south of the Pelješac peninsula from which it is divided by the Mljet channel. It was discovered by ancient Greco-Roman geographers, who wrote the first records and descriptions around the 6th century BC.
We will explore a historical spot on Mljet, one of the islands “lost” at sea and not easily reached alone. Portions of this island are National Park, including the Big Lake, Small Lake, and Soline Bay. We will enjoy a boat ride over to St. Mary’s, with time to explore on our own, or take the boat back and explore the area by bicycling(cost on your own) or enjoy time at the unique saltwater lakes, where we will have time to jump in the water and float from one saltwater lake to the other via a cool waterway. The current will help you along, so no paddling necessary. *Subject to water level. This afternoon we will enjoy a pastry workshop featuring Cukarin, a simple, unpretentious cookie with a flavorful taste of orange and lemon.
Day 5: Bisevo – Vis
This morning we will sail to the small island of Bisevo to visit the Blue Cave. This magnificent natural phenomenon is worth the stop if conditions allow it.
Next, we will cruise towards the island of Vis, once restricted to the public. Due to the isolation, Vis has a special charm as it was once a strategic naval Yugoslav base. We will spend the afternoon enjoying a cycling tour with rapidly changing landscapes.
Day 6: Hvar – Stari Grad
Today we will cruise towards Hvar, the longest and sunniest island in the Adriatic. This beautiful island lies between the islands of Brač and Korčula. Hvar is located at the center of the Adriatic sailing routes. In the past, this has made the island an important base for trade throughout the wider Mediterranean area. We will enjoy a swim stop and lunch before our afternoon arrival. This afternoon, enjoy a tour with views of the Renaissance Cathedral, which still has its original tower, and the oldest community theatre in Europe, founded in 1612. Tonight we will make our way to Stari Grad, one of the oldest cities in Europe.
Day 7: Trogir
This morning we will depart for the old Dalmatian town of Trogir. It is sometimes referred to as “miniature Venice” or “mini Dubrovnik” because of the ancient walls, a floating museum town. Once we disembark, we will visit Krka National Park and enjoy the wonderful waterfalls. The area is extremely rich with flora and fauna!
Day 8: Trogir – Split
This morning we will have a guided tour of the town before setting sail to Split.
Split is Croatia’s second-biggest city and is the administrative center of Middle Dalmatia and it is an important historical and cultural city. There are numerous museums, churches, theatres, and other archeological treasures. Perhaps the most impressive is the massive structure of Diocletian’s Palace, built by the Romans in the fourth century. The palace and its many buildings inside were designated a UNESCO Heritage Site in 1979. We will have the opportunity to explore this ancient city and the Cellars of Diocletian’s Palace. Tonight we will enjoy a guided tour, through this maze of a city.
Day 9: Split
This morning we will enjoy our last meal on board the ship before our transfer to our hotel. We will drop our bags and head out for our Five Senses Tour! Inspired by series of paintings created by Rubens and Brueghel and their Five senses (hearing, sight, smell, taste, and touch). All 5 senses would be stimulated. Enjoy this unique opportunity to spend 3-4 hrs with the intriguing person who knows Diocletian (Emperor Diocletian, Illyrian heritage) in detail. This tour will introduce you to the world of authentic Dalmatian flavors (Dalmatian power snacks: fig cake, orange chocolate, and carob and almond chocolate followed by basics of olive oil production, and the ways of recognizing olive oil quality). Next, we will enjoy a blind date with olive oil….followed by an amazing dinner at one of the best restaurants in Split.
Day 10: Farewell
Today we will enjoy breakfast and be transferred to the airport.
*The captain retains the right to modify the sailing route at any time.
Price Includes
Main Tour
Price includes: Airport transfers in Dubrovnik; All accommodations in a shared room; All activities as listed in the itinerary; All breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 4 dinners; 150 Euro drink allotment for any drinks onboard the ship; Services of knowledgeable local guides, and the services of a knowledgeable HE Travel tour host (with a minimum number of participants); HE Travel provides complimentary Medical & Evacuation Insurance for every US Resident on our group tours who do not have other coverage.
Not included: Airfare to and from Croatia; Lunch on 1 day and Dinner on 5 nights; Gratuities to ship crew, guides, and host; Personal items including, snacks, laundry, and telephone calls. Extra beverages onboard over the 150 Euro allowance for the week.
Optional Tour Choices:
$400 Upgrade in a shared room but in a Cabin on the Main level
$2400 Single Supplement Lower Level Cabin (for solo travelers who wish to enjoy a private cabin and bathroom)
$2800 Single Supplement and Upgrade to Main Level Cabin (for solo travelers who wish to enjoy a private cabin and bathroom)
Post Tour Price
$TBA per person in a shared room
$TBA in a single room (for solo travelers who wish to enjoy a private cabin and bathroom)
Price includes: Airport transfers; All accommodations for five nights in a shared room; All activities as listed in the itinerary; All breakfasts, 2 lunches and 3 dinners; Services of knowledgeable local guides, and the services of a knowledgeable HE Travel tour host (with a minimum number of participants); HE Travel provides complimentary Medical & Evacuation Insurance for every US Resident on our group tours who do not have other coverage.
Not included: Airfare to and from Croatia; 3 lunches and 2 dinners; Gratuities to guides, and host; Personal items including, snacks, laundry, and telephone calls.
We strongly recommend the purchase of Trip Cancellation and Interruption insurance to protect your vacation investment in case of unforeseen circumstances such as flight delay, illness, or injury. Click Here to learn more about our Insurance partner.
Extensions
Stay longer and enjoy the Northern region of Istria – July 17 to 22, 2022
Day 1: Flight from Split to Pula
Our adventure begins after a morning flight to Pula. We will spend the afternoon under the watchful guidance of a wonderful cheesemaker. Enjoy creating a top-notch cheese.
Day 2: Sea Kayaking
Today we will enjoy a sea kayaking tour from Rovinj to nearby islands. We will visit secluded bays and beaches, natural jewels, enjoy the unspoiled scenery and gorgeous crystal blue waters.
Later today we will dozens of tiny stone churches scattered across the Istrian peninsula hide one such treasure. With their simple exteriors, one would never guess that they hide opulent frescoes. Reminding us of the lovely creations of ancient Istrians. Most of the Istrian frescoes were painted between the 11th and 16th centuries. The creators believed that the church is not finished until master painters adorn it with frescoes.
Day 3: Truffle Aficionado
Start today with a tasty adventure. Let’s find a hidden underground treasure, his Majesty – the “Truffle”. Experience a rush of adrenaline while truffle hunting. Because truffles are love and a way of life. Then this afternoon walk on the stunning seaside of Rovinj. This evening we will reward ourselves with a delicious dinner at Monte, a restaurant with the first Croatian Michelin star. We will end the day with Aperol Spritz while relaxing on lounge chairs, just above the Adriatic Sea.
Day 4: Ultimate Wine Day
Enjoy an easy morning before we head out for the day. Did you know that Istrian vines date over 2000 years? You can thank Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius who brought vines to the warm Istrian soil. The wine region of Istria is producing some of the most top-notch wines to rival world competitors. The heart-shaped northwest corner of Croatia is developing a wine tourism niche based on the wine production itself, much like France or Italy.
Day 5: Love of History
Be a Roman for a day and explore Pula’s ancient Istrian city. The first-century A.D. Pula’s Roman Arena is the world’s sixth-largest ancient Roman amphitheater of the more than the 200 that still exist, once holding more than 20,000 gladiator-loving spectators.
Day 6: Farewell
Today we will say our goodbyes.
FAQ
- What if I am traveling alone?
- Most of our trips draw more single travelers than couples. When couples do join us, it’s usually because they’re looking forward to interacting with a gay group; if they wanted a holiday by themselves, they wouldn’t have signed up to travel with us. Furthermore, the activities included with our trips serve as natural ice-breakers. Within a day, you’ll be traveling with friends. You don’t need to pay the single supplement if you’re traveling alone. We’ll be happy to match you with a roommate. Pay the single supplement only if you want a bedroom to yourself. For selected trips, including cruises, we will charge half the single supplement if you request a roommate but we can’t match you with someone.
- What is the physical activity level of this tour?
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Physical Activity Level
The main daily activities involve swimming, snorkeling, kayaking and walking. All activities are optional if you are not feeling up to them. You are welcome to spend that time exploring the island town that day or relaxing on the boat.
- Where Does the Tour Start and End?
- This tour starts in Dubrovnik, Croatia and ends in Split, Croatia.
- What will the Cabin be Like?
- Your cabin will have a comfortable bed, a private bathroom, and air conditioning. Due to being on a boat with limited availability of resources, sheets and towels will be changed out once during the cruise, mid-week. Cleaning of the cabins will happen daily. The internet works well within most rooms and common areas. Cabin sizes are approximately 120 square feet and the private bathroom is 22 square feet.
- Is this a Private Charter?
- This cruise is not a private launch. There will possibly be a couple of other groups or individual travelers on board with us for our journey. This 31 passenger boat has plenty of space to lounge on the top deck, on the back of the boat or in the air-conditioned bar or dining area.
- What is the Boat like?
- The cabins include individually controlled air conditioners, full bathrooms and free wifi. There is a large lounging sundeck with a 6 person jacuzzi, there is a shaded section as well. There is also a fully air-conditioned saloon-restaurant with an LCD TV. Off the back of the boat is a rear access platform with ladders for getting in and out of the water.
- Additional Questions
- For answers to your additional questions, please email info@hetravel.com or call 305-294-8174