Croatia - Coastal Cruises
CLASSIC ITALY & DALMATIAN COAST
Based on the Windstar Cruises Fleet
Venice - Rovinj - Split - Dubrovnik - Kotor - Giardini Naxos - Capri - Rome
Explore the shores of Italy, Croatia and Montenegro, discovering the charm of Venice, the glamour of Capri, the magnificence of Rome, and the vast beauty of the Dalmatian Coast. Wander down the ancient cobblestone streets of Taormina, travel up the sparking fjord to Kotor and bask in the allure of small ship cruising as your yacht anchors in the heart of Old Town Dubrovnik while larger ships only pass by. From remarkable small ports such as Rovinj to timeless cities like Venice and Rome, discover the Mediterranean’s most charming and historic destinations in one incomparable voyage.
DETAILED ITINERARY
DAY 1 VENICE, ITALY
Arrive in Venice in the morning and transfer to your ship. (Pre-cruise stays in Venice are available)
A highlight of your cruise is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Venice - this most enchanting of cities, where quiet lagoons lead to astonishing churches, arched bridges over gondolier-travelled canals and inviting palazzo. The entire city, from the legendary Grand Canal to the magnificent Piazza San Marco to St. Peter’s Basilica, said to be the hiding place of the Holy Grail, is at your doorstep.
DAY 2 ROVINJ, CROATIA
Rovinj used to be a tiny island until the channel was filled in during the 18th century, so while the red terracotta roofs now spill inland, the Old Town is tidily self-contained. Hints of Italy are everywhere — in the signs, in the language, in the cuisine — thanks to having spent more than 500 years under Venetian rule. Romantic, quaint, and captivating, it’s Istria’s most beloved town.
DAY 3 SPLIT, CROATIA
Split welcomes you with open arms, Mediterranean style, and a bustling harbour lined with busy cafés. Beyond, looms stately Diocletian’s Palace in the centre of town. Within the palace walls, a majestic cathedral soars, surrounded by polished marble streets lined with every type of tempting shop. If you’re longing for a quiet respite, head for the western end of town for an easy stroll through a verdant mountain park.
DAY 4 DUBROVNIK, CROATIA
The beautifully preserved, fortified town of Dubrovnik is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Within its medieval walls lies the sparkling white Old City with its peaceful Franciscan cloister, a cathedral with works by Raphael and Titian, a fascinating maritime museum, and what is believed to be Europe’s oldest apothecary.
DAY 5 KOTOR, MONTENEGRO
With its twisting byways, Byzantine architecture, and pitched mountains plummeting straight into the Adriatic Sea, the walled city of Kotor astonishes at every turn. Timeworn cobbled streets lead to gorgeous gardens, Venetian-style churches, and aristocratic mansions from days gone by. Admire the medieval beauty of St. Tryphon’s Cathedral or watch a magical sunset from the Fortress of St. Ivan.
DAY 7 GIARDINI NAXOS, ITALY
Known for its beaches, amazing panoramic view of the bay and surrounding hills, and its small, but bustling fishing port, Giardini Naxos attracts many visitors. The seafront is lined with hotels, pubs, restaurants and pizzerias. Your Private Event here will feature a family-run winery with Sicilian wine tasting and lunch. And you’ll have time for an optional tour to the amazing archaeological ruins in Taormina including the amphitheatre still used today.
DAY 8 CAPRI, ITALY
There is so much to see on this captivating island — from the ruins of Roman villas to gorgeous private residences surrounded by flower-filled gardens. Wander along little lanes scented with the aromas of bougainvillea, plumbago, grapevines, and mandevilla. Don’t miss an opportunity to explore the famous Blue Grotto, with its intense azure interior and ethereal silvery light.
DAY 9 ROME, ITALY
Check-out this morning and transfer to the airport for your flight home.
Alternatively, extend your holiday with a few nights in Rome. When in Rome … you cannot miss the opportunity to visit St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican, not to mention the Colosseum, the Forum, the Pantheon and so much more.
