Split, Zadar and Secrets of the North Yacht Cruise - MS Adriatic Sky - 8 Days - Yacht Cruises

8 Days - Yacht Cruises

Experience the treasures of Northern Croatia, seeing Split and Emperor Diocletian’s monumental palace, medieval Šibenik and Trogir and the natural waterfalls of Krka Valley National Park. As well as soaking up the history and culture, take a dip in the sea in the idyllic bays of the Adriatic. Cruise through the national park of the Kornati archipelago, and marvel at the sea organ of Dalmatia's ancient capital, Zadar. Enjoy this seven-night cruise on your luxurious yacht along the Dalmatian coast, one of the world’s most dramatic landscapes, studded with beautifully preserved and atmospheric Venetian-influenced medieval towns, on some of Europe’s clearest waters. Moored overnight in quaint, picturesque harbours, allows evening strolls and dining at leisure ashore, experiencing Dalmatian cuisine in local restaurants.

Highlights

Tour of Split and Emperor Diocletian’s monumental palace, one of the greatest structures of the Roman Empire.
Guided tours of the medieval towns of Trogir and Šibenik, both boasting impressive cathedrals.
Guided tour of Zadar, ancient capital of Dalmatia and delightful Italianesque seaside town, plus visit to the coastal town of Vodice.
Visit to the Krka Valley National Park and its series of breath-taking natural waterfalls and lakes, and cruise through the national park of the Kornati archipelago.
Enjoy swim stops in some of the prettiest bays and coves in secluded idyllic island locations.

Inclusions

The price of this holiday is per person, based on two people sharing a double or twin cabin. Sole occupancy cabins are available on request at the relevant supplement. The price includes:
Return flights to Split
All transfers
Daily breakfast, six lunches, one dinner and Captain's dinner
Tours and visits as per the itinerary
All port taxes
The services of a Riviera Travel tour manager
English-speaking expert guides
Please note that in the event of unsatisfactory weather conditions the captain reserves the right to alter or reschedule the itinerary.
Please note due to the size of the ship there is no lift between decks; therefore a reasonable degree of mobility is required to negotiate the stairs and overall design.

1

Arrival in Split On arrival to Split, you’ll be taken your deluxe yacht, moored in the ancient harbour. 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 into 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.

2

Morning cruising with swim stop 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 stone built 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 breath-taking coastal views drifts idly by? Šibenik 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. Included experiences: Swim stop & guided walking tour of Šibenik.

3

Krka Valley National Park 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. Vodice 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. Included experiences: Visits to Krka Valley National Park & Vodice.

4

Swim stop & Kornati National Park 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 these islands 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. Zadar 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? Make sure you don't miss the sound and light show of the Sea Organ and the Sun Salutation at the waterfront! You could end the evening with a glass of maraschino, a local cherry liqueur produced here since the 16th-century. Included experiences: Swim stop, cruise through the Kornati archipelago & guided tour of Zadar.

5

Sailing with swim stop at Vrgada 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. Zlarin or Rogoznica 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. Included experiences: Swim stop & visit to Zlarin or Rogoznica.

6

Sailing with swim stop at Fumija 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. Trogir 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. Included experiences: Swim stop & guided tour of Trogir.

7

Morning cruising 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. Split 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. Included experiences: Tour of Split and Emperor Diocletian’s palace.

8

Return home After breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to your crew and start the journey home.

Cruise Overview

We are delighted to celebrate a stylish new addition to our fabulous fleet of luxury yacht cruisers, the MS Adriatic Sky. This elegant vessel is equipped with the latest safety features and boasts a sleek and sophisticated design across all of its impressive 50 metres, guaranteed to make quite an impression as you arrive at the quaint ports along this truly awe-inspiring coastline. As you step on board, there’s an instant feeling of grandeur. With a maximum of 38 guests on board, your dedicated crew will be at your service throughout. Enjoy the spacious and stylish sun deck, discover a secluded spot to read a book, enjoy a relaxing dip in the hot tub or sit back, relax and unwind with a cool refreshing drink from the bar as you enjoy unimpeded panoramic views of the unspoilt landscapes of the Adriatic coastline. There’s a chance to enjoy a quick dip from the swimming platform in one of the secluded bays’ crystal clear waters. Enjoy the fabulous dining experience in the sleek and serene restaurant, sampling the exquisite cuisine served to you by your ever attentive and friendly crew. Breakfast offers hot and cold dishes, whilst either lunch or dinner features well-prepared Mediterranean salads and meals. At the "Captain's dinner" celebrate specially selected dishes from teh Adriatic. The remaining evenings are free to dine at leisure at one of the restaurants in the delightful ports we visit. And, in the evening, once you’ve enjoyed your meal, you can appreciate the sea breeze from the atmospheric outside terrace area with a nightcap. The sense of luxury continues within your cabin. There are a total of 19 stunningly presented cabins, all light, bright, generously proportioned between 14-17 square metres (151 - 183 square feet) and elegantly styled with maximum comfort in mind. With luxurious double or twin beds and contemporary fittings all cabins are fully air-conditioned, feature a writing desk and chair, wardrobe, safe, hairdryer, TV plus a cleverly designed bathroom with shower. Free Wi-Fi is also available on board.