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2021 Dates to be Announced
Prices listed are per person:
Shared Room: $TBA
Private Room: $TBA
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.
**Please note this is not a private departure.
Day 2: Kayaking – Clothing Optional Beach
Today we will have a transfer to our boat and then set out to discover Dubrovnik – the Pearl of the Adriatic. It is time for some adventure as we head out in our kayaks! 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 boat to 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 and Saltwater Lakes
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 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
Day 5: Korcula
This morning we will head to Korcula, best known as the birthplace of the famous explorer Marco Polo. Within the fortifications and defensive walls, the red roofs extensively will remind you of Dubrovnik. View the centuries-old works of stonemasons whose architectural wonders created a very orderly urban plan.
Enjoy the afternoon exploring this cute port town on a guided walking tour. The evening is yours to explore, shop and dine. You will have many gourmet restaurants and bars to choose from tonight.
Day 6: Vis
Today 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 taking an interesting military tour. Or you are welcome to visit skip the tour and visit a traditional winery and try some exquisite wines. Take some time to visit the remains of the Roman thermal place city museum or simply take a walk and enjoy the views. Tonight will be the Captain’s dinner onboard.
Day 7: Bisevo – Hvar Island
This morning, we will set off for Hvar Island. But first, we will stop at the small island of Bisevo and visit the gorgeous Blue Cave. This magnificent natural phenomenon is worth the stop if conditions allow.
Then we will continue to Hvar, 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.
After lunch on board, we will arrive in Hvar harbor and enjoy a city tour. Enjoy views of the Renaissance Cathedral, which still has its original tower, and view the oldest community theatre in Europe, founded in 1612.
**If we are not able to port in Hvar harbor, due to boat limitations, we will port at Jelsa and jump on bicycles and head to a small interior island settlement. We will ride along a coastal gravel road from Jelsa towards Vrboska and then on an old road through vineyards towards Stari Grad. Stari Grad is one of Croatia’s oldest towns dating back to 384BC when it was a Greek colony called Faros.
Day 8: Zlatni Rat – Split
In the wee hours of the morning, we will head to the island of Brač. Here we will take a swim at the most famous beach in Croatia, Zlatni Rat, known for its natural phenomenon horn shape. Located in the southern part of Brac Island, it is below the highest peak of all Adriatic islands, Vidova Gora, at 2559 feet.
After lunch, we will set sail for Split, Croatia’s second-biggest city. Split 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 blind date with olive oil! Followed by an amazing dinner at a quaint location in Split.
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, grab some lunch and head out for zip-lining in some of the most beautiful locations, high above the canyon below. This evening we will enjoy our farewell dinner.
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 2 days 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:
$TBA Single Supplement in Main Level Cabin (for solo travelers who wish to enjoy a private cabin and bathroom)
Zagreb 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 in Zagreb; All accommodations for two nights in a shared room; All activities as listed in the itinerary; All breakfasts and 2 lunches; 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; Dinner on 2 nights; 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 Plitvice National Park and Zagreb
Day 1: Plitvice National Park
Today we will leave Split and head towards Croatia’s most famous National Park, Plitvice Lakes. These lakes are a must-see while in Croatia. The park consists of sixteen crystal blue-green lakes that are interconnected by a series of waterfalls. The park is deep in a woodland area that is populated with deer, bears, wolves, boars, and rare bird species. Because of the natural diversity, this became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979. We will have a local guide show us the best areas in the park and enjoy a late lunch here as well. After enjoying this beautiful area, we will continue on our way to Zagreb, Croatia’s capital. You will be free to relax and enjoy dinner on your own this evening.
Day 2: Zagreb
Today we will enjoy Zagreb by immersing ourselves in the area’s oldest marketplace, Dolac. Here we will enjoy a taste of soft and hard cheese, traditional regional salamis, prosciutto, and wine! We will then cook a typical Dalmatian meal and enjoy a few other treats. In the late afternoon, we will spend time like a local and enjoy a tram and funicular ride. We will head to the most popular museum in Croatia – the Museum of Broken Relationships!
Day 3: Farewell
Today we will enjoy breakfast and at your scheduled time, an airport transfer will be provided.
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