Explorer Cruises

Explorer Cruises - For Young Professionals & Young at Heart

Prices from £444 to £744

Weekly Departures from April - October

Our Explorer cruisesare perfect for discerning travellers looking for a blend of sightseeing, relaxation and socialising. Best suited for couples, young professionals and 'young at heart' travellers, the Explorer trips are 7 day cruises departing every Saturday from Split and Dubrovnik on our Premier ships.

Explorer cruises are great for unwinding and experiencing the true beauty of Croatia, whilst taking in the culture and history of the country. The emphasis is on taking in more sightseeing than on the Navigator cruises, whilst still giving you some socialising options in the evenings.

Our Premier ships are a fleet of modern ships, with spacious, well-appointed cabins and include air-conditioning*, as well as shower and toilet in the adjoining ensuite. We also have our Premier Plus ship, with the added bonus of a jacuzzi on the top deck.

Enjoy

• 7 day Cruises designed for a mix of relaxation and sightseeing
• Premier Ships (Air-con*, modern, spacious, ensuite)
• One-way features 2 nights on Hvar island, Vis, Blue Caves (subject to weather), Mljet National Park
• Swimming in a different bay each day
• Multiple excursions along the route
• Captains Dinner Evening
• Knowledgeable Sail Croatia rep onboard
• Excellent value, prices from just £64 a day (breakfast & lunch included)
• No single supplements*

Exclusive Explorer Routes

• Explorer Return - Split to Dubrovnik Return to Split
• One Way South - Split to Dubrovnik
• One Way North - Dubrovnik to Split

Click on the tabs above for more information.

Our Explorer Cruises depart from our most popular stops including the World Heritage listed City of Split and the spectacular ancient walled city of Dubrovnik – described memorably as “Heaven on Earth” by George Bernard Shaw.

Travelling down the coast of Croatia, your boat will visit the beautiful islands of Hvar stopping at both Stari Grad (or Jelsa) and Hvar port, giving you more time on this popular island which has a range of sightseeing activities and some of the most exclusive cafes and bars on the Adriatic. We also visit Korcula - the birthplace of Marco Polo - which provides more opportunities to soak up history and culture with renaissance cathedrals and ancient monuments to keep you busy. We take in the amazing salt lakes and natural beauty of the National Park in Mljet and the highest seaside mountains on the Med - the Makarska Riviera.

Along the route your Captain will regularly moor up in small, unspoilt bays to allow you the chance to swim in the clear, calm waters of the Adriatic. During the trip you will have the opportunity to do optional activities such as buggy safari, wine-tasting, rafting, hiking and a day trip through to the unforgettable Turkish Old Town in the city of Mostar in Bosnia.

Your breakfasts and lunches are freshly prepared for you by our onboard chef each day. Come evening you are free to step ashore and visit one of the many waterside bars, cafes and pretty town restaurants. Absorb the sights and smells of a balmy Croatian evening while enjoying a drink and local speciality cuisine.

Back on board you can sleep until the lapping of the waves or aroma of breakfast lure you out on deck for another heady day of effortless sightseeing.

Explorer Ships

Our Premier Shipsoperate on our Explorer Cruises and are a cut above in terms of space, elegance and comfort. Each cabin has a shower and wc, as well as air-conditioning*. Taking an average of 36 guests, the Premier Ships are larger and purpose built in design for small ship cruises around the Adriatic. The Ships have professional crews on-board including the captain, cook, waiter, deck hands and our knowledgeable representative.

They have large sun deck areas perfect for building a gentle but deep tan whilst a light sea breeze and shaded areas make sure you stay cool in the midday sun. You will be well looked after by the Captain and crew who will take care of all the hard work.

You can just lie back on deck and enjoy some enforced relaxation while sipping a chilled glass of wine or beer and basking in the warmth of the Croatian sun under the bluest of skies.

Your view will change every hour without you moving a muscle! Sailing with us is an effortless way to discover more of a new country.

Sail Croatia - Premier Ships – Private Air-conditioned Cabins with Ensuite

Sail Croatia - Premier Plus Ships – More space onboard plus private air-conditioned cabins and top deck jacuzzi

Single Supplements

We do not charge single supplements on our Explorer cruise boats as you will be sharing your cabin with another lone traveller. We try our best to ensure that you are teamed up with a like-minded traveller and see this as an important part of the service we offer.

If you do prefer to have your own cabin, you can pay a single supplement (50% of the 1 person price) for your own cabin.

*Air-conditioning subject to power supply at local ports which is sometimes restricted. If by chance restrictions apply in the ports the air-conditioning will be run by onboard generators until mid-night when they must be turned off to allow for guests to sleep.

Return Itinerary

Explorer Return Itinerary: Split to Dubrovnik Return

Starting and finishing in the city of Split, our Explorer Return cruise is popular with young professionals, couples and mature travellers and offers 7 days of enforced relaxation and an effortless journey around the stunning coast of Croatia. The cruise departs every Saturday from 27 April – 19 October.

We also have our Traditional Return cruise operating exclusively on Premier boats. Traditional Cruises are aimed at couples, senior travellers and families. If you are aged 21-35 years, our Navigator cruises are perfect for you! We have 3 boat types available for you to choose from.

Departure Day: Saturdays (Apr - Oct)
Departure Time: 1PM
Finish Time: 9AM the following Saturday
Note it is possible to finish on Friday evening as the boats will dock in Split around 5pm

Itinerary: SPLIT - MAKARSKA - MLJET - DUBROVNIK - TRSTENIK - KORCULA - HVAR/BOL - SPLIT

Saturdays: SPLIT - MAKARSKA

Departure from Split harbour, Saturday at 13:00. After lunch, we will sail along the Dalmatian coast down to the Makarska Riviera. We spend the afternoon swimming at one of the beautiful beaches on the Riviera. Overnight in the port of Makarska, one of the most attractive resorts on the Croatian coast. Strolling along the streets of Makarska, you will come across numerous churches and other architectural and cultural sights.

Sundays: MAKARSKA - MLJET

Early in the morning we continue our trip towards Mljet. Our first stop is in Loviste, on the Peljesac peninsula. After a refreshing swim we continue towards Mljet. We arrive late afternoon and you are then free to explore the salt lakes in National Park and enjoy the sun and sea on this peaceful island. Overnight in port Polaca/Pomena. In the middle of the large lake, inside the National park, we can visit an old abbey and church, or just use a small boat to roam around the National Park.

Optional Activities

• Mljet National Park Entrance (90 - 110 Kunas. Average price depending on travel date)
• Bikes and Kayaks (from 35 Kunas)

Mondays: MLJET - DUBROVNIK

After breakfast we depart for Dubrovnik, which will be the highlight of our cruise. There will be time just for a short swim. Enjoy the beautiful sights of nature along the way towards "the heaven on earth" -according to the famous writer George Bernard Shaw. We will arrive into Dubrovnik late afternoon. Take a walk through STRADUN - both a street and a square, a promenade inside the city walls. For those of you with more enthusiasm we recommend a walk on top of the 1,940 m long city walls! Overnight in the port of this magical town.

Optional Activities

• Dubrovnik Walking Tour (90 Kunas)
• Sail Croatia Live (50 Kunas)

Tuesdays: DUBROVNIK - TRSTENIK

The morning is free to explore Dubrovnik. Discover the beauty of history through numerous monuments, little streets, churches. Around lunch time we leave this magnificent town and continue our cruise towards the isle of Sipan or a little town of Trstenik on the Peljesac penninsula, where we will swim in the afternoon and spend the night.

Optional Activities

• Wreck Dive Scuba Experience for Certified Divers (540 Kunas)*

Wednesdays: TRSTENIK - KORCULA

After breakfast departure to Korcula, the birthplace of MARCO POLO. Lunch on the board somewhere in front of Lumbarda (part of Korcula). Sightseeing of Korcula - overnight in port. On this island you can find more legends, tales and monuments than anywhere else. Listen to the story of the stone walls, which were built over two centuries ago.

Optional Activities

• Buggy Safari (300 Kunas)
• Kayaking (100 Kunas)

Thursdays: KORCULA - HVAR

Early in the morning we depart for the Pakleni Islands where we have lunch and a swim. Departure for Hvar after lunch. Hvar is the longest island in the Adriatic. Here we can find the Renaissance cathedral with its original tower; also the oldest community theatre in Europe was founded here in 1612. The town of Hvar offers plenty of restaurants, bars and cafes that are open long into the night.

Fridays: HVAR (Bol) - SPLIT

Our next stop will be the island of Brac. Swimming is at one of the most well-known beaches in Dalmatia - Zlatni Rat near Bol (the Golden Cape - its shingle promontory shifts from side to side as the wind and waves constantly change in shape). Bol is a typical fisherman's town turned into a popular tourist resort. After lunch we will start our journey back to Split where the last night will be. On our way to Split there will be another swim-break in one of the many bays on Brac. Enjoy the view of the Split Riviera as we arrive into Split late afternoon. Split is a city under UNESCO protection that belongs not only to Croatians, but also to you, as it is a part of its World Heritage status. Here we find an abundance of Roman architecture - of special interest is the Diocletian Palace.

Saturdays: SPLIT

Early breakfast after which it is time to say goodbye to the crew and all your new friends!

Optional Activities

• Bosnia/Mostar Day Trip (price TBC)

NOTE: It is possible for you to leave as early as needed on Saturday morning to catch flights as the boats will be in port by Friday night.

All of the activities offered on this itinerary are informative only and are for your planning benefit. These are booked and paid for locally if you wish to participate. There is no obligation to participate as they are purely optional. They are offered by local companies and do not form part of your booking with Sail Croatia. Prices are in Croatian Kunas and also approximates and subject to change. Some minimum numbers also apply.

One Way South

Explorer One Way Itinerary: Split to Dubrovnik

The Explorer One-Way Cruises are designed to give you time to see more islands including two nights on the island of Hvar and the rarely visited island of Vis and the Blue Caves (subject to weather). You can mix and match flights in and out of Split/Dubrovnik or link up with our Balkan Road Trips.

Our Explorer cruises are designed for travellers looking for a blend of sightseeing, relaxation and socialising. Aimed at couples, young professionals and young at heart travellers, the 7 day Explorer routes are perfect for unwinding and taking in the beautiful Croatian coastline, whilst still giving you socialising options with your shipmates.

Swim in secluded bays and once in port explore historic towns and villages. Watch golden sunsets with your friends whilst sipping cool drinks from the decks of your boat and let the mood take you out in the evenings to waterside cafes or vibrant bars and clubs.

Departure Day: Saturdays (Jun - Sep)
Departure Time: 1PM
Finish Time: 9AM the following Saturday
Note it is possible to finish on Friday evening as the boats will dock in Dubrovnik around 3pm

Itinerary: SPLIT - MAKARSKA - STARI GRAD/JELSA - HVAR - VIS - KORCULA - MLJET - DUBROVNIK

Saturdays: SPLIT - MAKARSKA

Departure from Split harbour is at 13.00. We have lunch upon departure and sail down towards the Makarska Riviera, taking in the stunning views. We will stop for a swim at one of the coastal bays before getting into Makarska En route, you have the option of river rafting down the Cetina river, which splits the Riviera in a spectacular gorge and during the 12th and 13th Century was an area where pirates thrived. Rafters will be dropped back in Makarska later in the afternoon to join the boats for the evening. Makarska nestles under the Biokovo mountain range with Mt Jure the highest seaside peak on the Mediterranean. For nightlife, there is the cocktail bar Marineta and for late night takers there is the infamous club “Deep” a natural cave next to the sea which rocks into the wee hours.

Sundays: MAKARSKA-STARI GRAD/JELSA

Early in the morning, we head towards the island of Hvar, the longest and one of the most well-known islands in the Adriatic. We moor overnight in the quaint harbour town of Stari Grad or in the pretty port of Jelsa (depending on local harbour traffic). Situated on the northern side of the island, Stari Grad is the oldest town in Croatia and boasts an attractive network of old narrow streets and small squares around the harbour. Jelsa dates back to the 1300's and was a significant trading port for the island's wine and olive oil.

Mondays: STARI GRAD/JELSA-HVAR

After lunch onboard, we stop for a swim at one of the bays heading towards Hvar Town for our second night on Hvar island. The 7th century fort ruins tower over the town and its waterfront restaurants and famous bars make it a popular night's stop. We overnight along the town waterfront where we have prime position to immerse ourselves in the atmosphere of restaurants and cafes. Clubs such as Carpe Diem, Veneranda and the Nautica Bar give those wanting a late night plenty of options to choose from.

Tuesdays: HVAR - VIS

Early in the morning and subject to weather conditions, we will make our way across to the island of Vis, one of the most outer-lying islands on the Dalmatian coast. Vis has been used over the centuries as a strategic military port and saw action by the Allied military through WWII against Italy and the Germans. Today it is an idyllic island, famous for the outer-lying Blue Cave, an island cave system accessible only by boat. The blue turquoise water and refracted light into the cave make for exciting and amazing photo opportunities. If by chance the weather and wind isn't suitable to visit Vis, then an alternative stop will be made on the itinerary.

Wednesdays: VIS - KORCULA

Later in the morning we continue our trip south. Our first stop is in one of the bays near Loviste, on the Peljesac peninsula, where we will spend the day relaxing in the sunshine and swimming. Later in the afternoon we continue onto Korcula, the birthplace of Marco Polo. Korcula has a wealth of restaurants and there are numerous bars and clubs within the city walls.

Optional Activities

• Buggy Safari (300 Kunas)
• Kayaking (100 Kunas)

Thursdays: KORCULA - MLJET

The next morning we head south to the island of Mljet. We arrive late afternoon and you are then free to explore the salt lakes in the National Park and enjoy the sun and sea on this peaceful island. We will overnight in the port Polaca/Pomena. In the middle of the large lake, inside the National park, we can visit the little isle of St Mary, with an ancient Benedictine monastery, an old abbey and church dating from the 12th Century, or just use a small boat, kayak, bicycle, scooter or cabriolet to roam around the National Park.

Optional Activities

• Mljet National Park Entrance (90 - 110 Kunas. Average price depending on travel date)
• Bikes and Kayaks (from 35 Kunas)

Fridays: MLJET - DUBROVNIK

After breakfast we depart for Dubrovnik, which will be the highlight and also end point of our cruise. Enjoy the beautiful sights of nature along the way as we cruise towards "heaven on earth" - according to the famous writer George Bernard Shaw. We will arrive in Dubrovnik around 2-3pm. Explore the 13^th century old town, with its 1,940m long city walls and discover hidden gems such as cafes perched along the walls, where you can sit back and watch the sunsets. Small alleyways hide traditional restaurants with bucket-loads of atmosphere. Later in the evening there are plenty of late night hang-outs to keep you awake into the early hours.

Optional Activities

• Dubrovnik Walking Tour (90 Kunas)
• Sail Croatia Live (50 Kunas)

Saturdays: DUBROVNIK

Early breakfast after which it is time to say goodbye to the crew and all your new friends or join one of our Balkan Road Trips and explore Montenegro, Albania and Corfu on the Croatia to Greece Pass, or Bosnia on the Bosnia Adventure. NOTE: It is possible for you to leave as early as needed on Saturday morning if you need to catch flights as the boats will be in port by Friday afternoon.

Optional Activities

• Montenegro Day Trip (Price TBC)

All of the activities offered on this itinerary are informative only and are for your planning benefit. These are booked and paid for locally if you wish to participate. There is no obligation to participate as they are purely optional. They are offered by local companies and do not form part of your booking with Sail Croatia. Prices are in Croatian Kunas and also approximates and subject to change. Some minimum numbers also apply.

One Way North

Explorer One Way Itinerary: Dubrovnik to Split

The Explorer One-Way Cruises are designed to give you time to see more islands including two nights on the island of Hvar and the rarely visited island of Vis and the Blue Caves (subject to weather). You can mix and match flights in and out of Split/Dubrovnik or link up with our Balkan Road Trips.

Our Explorer cruises are designed for travellers looking for a blend of sightseeing, relaxation and socialising. Aimed at couples, young professionals and young at heart travellers, the 7 day Explorer routes are perfect for unwinding and taking in the beautiful Croatian coastline, whilst still giving you socialising options with your shipmates.

Swim in secluded bays and once in port explore historic towns and villages. Watch golden sunsets with your friends whilst sipping cool drinks from the decks of your boat and let the mood take you out in the evenings to waterside cafes or vibrant bars and clubs.

Departure Day: Saturdays (Jun - Sep)
Departure Time: 1PM
Finish Time: 9AM the following Saturday
Note it is possible to finish on Friday evening as the boats will dock in Split around 5pm

Itinerary: DUBROVNIK - MLJET - KORCULA - VIS - HVAR - STARI GRAD/JELSA - MAKARSKA - SPLIT

Saturdays: DUBROVNIK-MLJET

Departure is from Gruz harbour in Dubrovnik at 13.00. During lunch, we sail north through the Elephite islands where we will stop for a refreshing swim before heading onto Mljet National Park.

We arrive late afternoon and you are then free to look at the salt lakes in the National Park and enjoy the sun and sea on this peaceful island. We will overnight in the port Polaca/Pomena. In the middle of the large lake, inside the National park, we can visit the little isle of St Mary, with an ancient Benedictine monastery an old abbey and church dating from the 12th Century, or just use a small boat, kayak, bicycle, scooter or cabriolet to roam around the National Park.

Optional Activities

• Mljet National Park Entrance (90 - 110 Kunas. Average price depending on travel date)
• Bikes and Kayaks (from 35 Kunas)

Sundays: MLJET-KORCULA

From Mljet, we continue our trip. Our first stop is in one of the bays near Loviste, on the Peljesac peninsula, an isolated town which until recently was only accessible by boat. We will find a quiet bay to spend the day relaxing in the sunshine and swimming. Later in the afternoon we continue onto Korcula, the birthplace of Marco Polo, where we overnight in port. On this island you can find more legends, tales and monuments than anywhere else. The stone walls were being built over two centuries ago.

Korcula has a wealth of restaurants and there are numerous bars and clubs for those looking for late night options.

Mondays: KORCULA-VIS

Early in the morning and subject to weather conditions (which are normally excellent), we will make our way across to the island of Vis, one of the most outer-lying islands on the Dalmatian coast. Vis has been used over the centuries as a strategic military port and saw action by the Allied military through WWII against Italy and the Germans. It has only recently been open to commercial tourism and still retains a lot of charm as it not frequently visited due to its location.

Today it is an idyllic island which is most famous for the outer-lying Blue Cave, an island cave system accessible only by boat. The blue turquoise water and refracted light into the cave make for exciting and amazing photo opportunities.

If by chance the weather and wind isn't suitable to visit Vis, then an alternative stop will be made on the itinerary. The captain reserves the right to amend this as his number one priority is always safety.

Tuesdays: VIS - HVAR

Early in the morning, we head towards the island of Hvar, the longest and one of the most well-known islands in the Adriatic. We will moor in Hvar Town for our first night on Hvar island. The 7th century walls with fortifications towering above the township, fascinating outlying Resin Islands, waterfront restaurants and famous bars make it a popular night's stop.

We overnight along the town waterfront where we have prime position to immerse ourselves in the atmosphere of restaurants and cafes. Climb up to the hill fort to enjoy the magnificent views across the town and outer islands before relaxing on deck sipping cocktails and sharing travel stories with your fellow travellers.

Often there are magical sunsets you wish would go on forever and combined with clubs such as Carpe Diem, Veneranda and the Nautica Bar give those wanting a late night plenty of options to choose from. For couples there are inviting waterfront cafes and pathways leading to secluded local restaurants for a more intimate evening.

Wednesdays: HVAR - STARI GRAD/JELSA

For our second night on Hvar island, we moor overnight in the quaint harbour town of Stari Grad or in the pretty port of Jelsa (depending on local harbour traffic). Situated on the northern side of the island, Stari Grad literally means 'Old Town' and it is the oldest town in Croatia. Stari Grad boasts an attractive network of old narrow streets and small squares around the harbour. Vineyards and olive groves surround the town and the Stari Grad Plain is a UNESCO protected World Heritage Site. Jelsa dates back to the 1300's and was a significant trading port for the island's wine and olive oil. It nestles at the foot of thickly wooded hillsides. Both ports have plenty of restaurants and bars to explore, with some overlooking the harbour itself and others tucked away in the side streets.

Thursdays: STARI GRAD/JELSA - MAKARSKA

From Hvar island, we journey towards the coast under the picturesque Makarska Riviera where you can be amazed at the stunning views. Makarska is the most attractive coastline on the Dalmatian coast nestled under the massive peaks of the Biokovo mountain range with Mt Jure the highest seaside peak on the Mediterranean. Stroll along the ancient streets and explore numerous churches and other architectural and cultural sights that take your interest.

If anyone is looking to take in the sights under the water it is possible to enjoy an introductory scuba diving experience for new divers.

If you are looking at nightlife options there is the cocktail bar Marineta and for late night takers there is the infamous club “Deep” a natural cave next to the sea which booms into the wee hours.

Optional Activities

• Discovery Dive (320 Kunas)

Fridays: MAKARSKA - SPLIT

From Makarska, the boats will make their way back to Split stopping for a swim break and lunch at one of the pretty coastal beaches. There is an optional river rafting activity after lunch for anyone who wishes to get some action in for the day. You will be dropped back in Split later in the afternoon where you will rejoin the boats.

For those staying with the boats we start our journey back to Split and arrive during the late afternoon. Enjoy the view of the Split Riviera as we sail into port.

Split is a monumental city under UNESCO protection that belongs not only to Croatians, but also to you, as it is a part of the world heritage. Here we find an abundance of Roman architecture - of special interest is the Diocletian palace.

Saturdays: SPLIT

Early breakfast after which it is time to say goodbye to the crew and all your new friends or join one of our Balkan Road Trips and explore more of Croatia, and Slovenia!

Optional Activities

• Bosnia/Mostar Day Trip (price TBC)

NOTE: It is possible for you to leave as early as needed on Saturday morning if you need to catch flights as the boats will be in port by Friday night.

All of the activities offered on this itinerary are informative only and are for your planning benefit. These are booked and paid for locally if you wish to participate. There is no obligation to participate as they are purely optional. They are offered by local companies and do not form part of your booking with Sail Croatia. Prices are in Croatian Kunas and also approximates and subject to change. Some minimum numbers also apply.

Prices

2013 Prices

The prices below are for our Explorer Cruises in 2013.

Prices vary based on the date of departure as well as the type of boat you wish to travel on:

Premier Ships - Private Air-conditioned Cabins with Ensuite (Shower & Toilet).

Premier Plus Ships - Private Air-conditioned Cabins with Ensuite (Shower & Toilet). Jacuzzi on top deck of ship.

On each ship there are Above and Below Deck cabins which differ in price:

• Above Deck Cabins are on the main deck of the ship and may be arranged across 2 levels.
• Below Deck Cabins are within the hull of the ship below the main deck.

All Prices are per person and are in GBP (£). 

Excursions

Excursions