What are Explorer Cruises?
Explorer cruises are great for young professionals and young at heart travellers looking to experience the true beauty of Croatia. There is an emphasis on sightseeing and relaxing, whilst still giving you the opportunity to explore the nightlife in Croatia each evening should you wish to! If you’re looking for a different cruise experience, view our Croatia small ship cruises.
What time do cruises start/finish?
All Explorer ships depart from Split or Dubrovnik on a Saturday at 13:00. All ships arrive at their final port on a Friday afternoon, and check-out is between 8am and 9am on the following Saturday. If you’re unable to make it to check-in on time, you can easily catch up with your ship at your first destination. Please see FAQ: What if I can’t make the check-in time?
What if I can’t make the check-in time?
If you’re unable to arrive at your departure point for check-in, it’s easy to catch up with your ship at your first destination. See information on how to get to your first destination below:
- Split Return South / Split to Dubrovnik: your first night will be spent in the mainland town of Makarska, which is easily accessible by public bus from Split (1 hour & 15 minutes). You can find the bus timetable online here.
- Dubrovnik - Split: your first night will be spent on the island of Mljet, which is easily accessible via ferry from Dubrovnik (1 hour & 20 minutes). You can find ferry timetables online here and here.
If you need assistance planning your arrival, a member of our Sales Team will be happy to help you connect the dots! We are able to provide land based transfers if required, or our Operations Team are also able to assist you on the ground with logistics.
What are the cabin arrangements?
Our Explorer ships consist of either a Twin or Double bed, ensuite and air-conditioning. Twin or Double bed
cabins are confirmed during the booking stage, so please let us know your preferences. On some ships, we also
have Triple cabins available. Triple cabins consist of a double bed and a single bunk, and we provide a 10%
discount per person.
What is the difference between Above Deck and Lower Deck cabins?
Above Deck cabins are on the main deck of the ship or just above it. Lower Deck cabins are in the hull of the
ship. There are pros and cons to both - Lower Deck cabins are often cooler and quieter at night, as you do not
have many travellers walking past your cabin as much as the Above Deck cabins. Above Deck cabins offer more
natural light and ventilation. Each ship is unique and therefore the layout varies from ship to ship. Please
note: On some ships, the Above Deck cabins are located across two levels, i.e. located on the main deck and on
a higher deck level.
I am travelling by myself, is there a single supplement?
If you prefer to have your own cabin, you can pay a single supplement which is 50% of the per person website price. Please note single supplements are limited in their availability and are not applicable on special offers or discounted cruises. Alternatively, we can match you with another solo traveller of the same sex onboard the ship.
What age/nationality are the passengers?
Explorer Cruises attract a wide age range of guests onboard, and a typical cruise will usually have a mix of couples, young professionals and ‘young at heart' travellers from mid 20s to mid 60s onboard.
We recommend a minimum age of 15+ onboard Explorer Cruises, and we find this works well for all guests onboard the ship, as well as older teenagers who enjoy many aspects of the cruise. If you’d prefer to travel with other mature travellers, view our Elegance Croatia Cruises.
Mainly English-speaking travellers join us on our Explorer Cruises. Travellers are typically from Australia, New Zealand, USA, UK & South Africa.
What food is included?
Breakfast and a 3-course lunch are included daily on our Explorer cruises. Breakfast is usually continental
style, with additional warm food such as eggs. Lunches are usually 3 courses, with a soup/salad starter, meat
or fish-based main course and fruit/cake for dessert, prepared by your onboard cook. A Captains Dinner is also
included in Explorer Cruises. All other evenings, we encourage our clients to explore the local towns,
experiencing local food and wine! Of course we can offer suggestions on the best places to go!
Can I bring food and drink onboard?
You cannot bring food and drink onboard the ship, except for items that fill specific dietary requirements.
Each boat has its own bar and drinks consumed onboard must be purchased from here. You have unlimited access
to the onboard water cooler during the salon opening times. We recommend bringing a re-usable water bottle
with you onboard, and filling this up before the salon closes for the evening.
Are there any local payments that I need to be aware of?
A local payment of 30 Euros per person is payable onboard your Sail Croatia Cruise. This payment incorporates
port fees and tourist taxes throughout the week and is subject to change.
What type of luggage should I bring?
If you’re joining us from within Europe, we highly recommend limiting your luggage to one suitcase; however,
we understand that this might not be possible for international travellers who are flying in just for the
cruise, or on extended trips. In most cabins, you will be able to store bags under the bed; however, in the
case of excess luggage, please ask check-in staff to give you additional information about possible storage.
Will I get to visit the Blue Cave as a part of my cruise?
A visit to the Blue Cave in Vis is dependant on weather conditions and your itinerary. If conditions allow, an
optional visit to the Blue Cave will be offered. This activity is not a part of your booking with us and
therefore Sail Croatia shall not be deemed responsible for any damage, loss or dissatisfaction related to the
Blue Cave visit.
Am I able to use the jacuzzi onboard 24/7?
You’re welcome to relax in the onboard jacuzzi throughout your cruise. Please note that the jacuzzi may not be
available at all times due to conditions such as electricity consumption, fresh water usage onboard and
weather conditions.
How does Sail Croatia contribute to sustainable tourism?
Sail Croatia is committed to sustainable tourism and eco-friendly practices. To find out more on what we’ve
achieved so far and our goals for a sustainable future, check out our sustainability report here.
What other cruises do you operate?
Sail Croatia offer cruise and yacht experiences to suit every travel style, including luxury Croatia Cruises for mature travellers, Explorer Cruises between Split and Dubrovnik, Navigator Party Cruises, and Active Cruises on our Cycle Croatia and Hike Croatia Cruise experiences.