Every year, The Traveling Professor charters a 140-foot ship for our group and our group only. We usually start in port of Split and go up and down the Croatia coast. We only cruise during the day, so it is always calm seas. But whenever we go, we always have so much fun with our 30 or so travelers. Here are the 10 things you can only do on a small ship Croatia cruise:
Swim in Secluded Coves in the Clear Turquoise Waters: Just about each day the captain will pull into a private cove, and throw in the anchor. It's time to jump off the back of the boat in warm clear waters. There is nothing like it and few things as fun as this.
Go to an Authentic Croatian Kanoba: A kanoba is a family-owned Croatian tavern. We usually pull into port on an island, take and take a ride into the countryside to get there. We are met by a friendly family that serves Croatian meats, cheeses, appetizers and of course, local wines. It is followed up with a sumptuous dinner and dessert. That my friends, can only be done in Croatia.
Visit the Island of Pučišća: It is here that some of the most beautiful marble in the world can be found. In fact, marble fused in the construction of the White House was quarried from Pučišća. We pull into port at this beautiful village, filled with orange-tiled roofs. We always visit the Sculpting Academy for a fascinating lecture on how this beautiful marble is crafted.
Visit the Blue Caves: Accessible only from the sea, this is the "Blue Grotto" of Croatia. Enter the caves by small boat to view the shimmering light.
Visit the Home of Marco Polo: One of our favorite places to visit is Korcula. It is a pretty seafront town and the birthplace of the famous explorer Marco Polo.
Enjoy the National Parks: One that we enjoy is at Mljet National Park. The crystal clear waters are perfect for swimming and kayaking.
See the Sunset Over the Walls of Dubrovnik: Imagine sitting on the top deck of the ship, champagne in hand, with a light breeze in your hair as the orange sun sets over the walls of ancient Dubrovnik. What can be better than this?
Island-Hop the Adriatic Sea: There are the islands of Korcula, Hvar, Stari Grad, all beautiful in their own right. Each day we pull into a different port. Enjoy a delicious meal and meet the super-friendly Croatian people.
Listen to Croatian Music: Everywhere you go, there is delightful music of all types. Centuries-old klapa singing is performed with a group of 4 to 10 people standing in a tight semi-circle. In traditional dress, he beautiful baritones, tenors and bass voices project an entrancing harmony.
Enjoy Wines and Olive Olive Oil: Some of the best wines in the world come from Croatia. Sit on the top deck with a glass of white wine, maybe made by the famous Grgic winery, in hand.
Join us on a small ship cruise to Croatia.