A typical day on a Sail Croatia cruise includes breakfast on board, cruising between Croatia’s stunning coastal destinations, refreshing swim stops, a three-course lunch and plenty of time to explore ashore throughout the afternoon and evening.
While every itinerary is a little different, our Elegance, Explorer and Navigator cruises generally follow a similar rhythm, balancing time on the water with plenty of opportunities to explore on land. Mornings are typically spent cruising between destinations and enjoying swim stops, followed by afternoons exploring each port, joining optional excursions and spending the evenings as relaxed or lively as you like.
Whether you want to make the most of optional excursions, explore each destination at your own pace or simply relax on board, here’s what a typical day on Sail Croatia looks like.
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
7:00 - 7:30 am | Ship departure |
Morning | Buffet breakfast |
Late morning | Swim stops & cruising |
Lunch | Onboard 3-course lunch |
Early afternoon | Arrive in new destination |
Afternoon | Enjoy optional excursions & explore |
Evening | Free time & dinner |
5:00 am | Curfew to be back onboard |
Each day on Sail Croatia is a little different, but you can expect breakfast and lunch on board, morning swim stops, and plenty of free time to explore in the afternoon and evening. Optional excursions and occasional dinners are also available on select itineraries.
Keep in mind that this is a general guide, and your schedule may vary depending on the conditions and plans for the day.
Morning
Set Sail
The ship usually departs between 7:00 and 7:30 am, but there’s no need to set an alarm if you’re not an early riser. Guests can sleep through the departure while the crew gets you on your way to the next destination. Wake up when you’re ready and enjoy a slow start to the day as Croatia’s coastline passes by.
Breakfast on Board
Once you’re up, head to the dining area for a buffet-style breakfast. Breakfast times vary depending on the day’s itinerary, but it’s generally served between 8:00 and 9:00 am, giving you plenty of time to fuel up before the day’s adventures. Grab your favourites, enjoy a coffee and take in the views from the ship.
Cruise & Swim Stops
After breakfast, settle in on deck as the ship cruises towards the next port. Along the way, there’ll usually be time to swim, sunbathe and enjoy the Adriatic, with swim stops ranging from around 45 minutes to two hours depending on the day. Jump straight from the ship into the crystal-clear water or simply stretch out on deck and soak up the sunshine.
Afternoon
Lunch on Board
By lunchtime, it’s time to refuel with a three-course meal served on board. Enjoy an appetiser, main and dessert, made with fresh ingredients every day, while taking in the views before getting ready to explore your next Croatian destination. With a full belly and plenty of time to relax, it’s the perfect way to recharge before the afternoon ahead.
Arrive in Port
After lunch, it’s time to freshen up and get ready to head ashore. As the ship arrives in port, your host will give you a rundown of the destination, including any optional excursions, activities and things to see and do. Once you’re off the ship, the rest of the afternoon is yours to explore, whether you’re joining an excursion, wandering the old town or finding a spot to relax by the water.
Evening
Dinner in Port
Dinner looks different every day, and it’s one of the most exciting parts of the evening. Grab dinner at a local restaurant, discover a new spot with your group, or join one of the group dinners your Tour Manager may organise. It’s a great chance to try local dishes and experience each destination after dark.
Included Dinner Experiences
Depending on your cruise, you’ll also have the chance to enjoy some special dinner experiences throughout your trip. Elegance guests can look forward to a Captain’s Dinner and Local Village Dinner, while Explorer guests have a Captain’s Dinner to enjoy. These are a great way to experience something a little different and share a meal with your fellow travellers.
Explore, Dessert & Drinks
Croatia looks especially beautiful by moonlight, and the cooler evening air makes it the perfect time to explore. After dinner, stroll through the streets, find somewhere for dessert or settle in for a drink before heading back to the ship.
Pre-Drinks & Nightlife
For those looking to make the most of Croatia’s nightlife, dinner is only the beginning of the evening. Navigator guests often return to the ship to get ready, enjoy some happy hour pre-drinks with the group and then head back out to experience the local nightlife. Just be sure to make it back on board by 5:00 am sharp for curfew.
What's Included in a Typical Day
What’s Included
- 7 nights’ accommodation on board
- Daily buffet breakfast
- 3-course lunch every day
- Wi-Fi
- Dedicated Tour Manager
- Daily swim stops and cruising between destinations
- Port and destination visits throughout your itinerary
- Elegance inclusions
- Return Airport transfer
- Welcome Reception
- Captain’s Dinner
- Local Village Dinner
- Walking Tours at select destinations
- Explorer inclusions
- Captain’s Dinner
What’s Not Included
- Evening meals - some itineraries include dinner experiences
- Drinks - added to your onboard tab and settled at the end of the trip
- Optional excursions
- Tourist tax and port fees - €40 per person
Some experiences and costs vary depending on your itinerary, so be sure to check your specific trip details before you set sail.
No two days on Sail Croatia are exactly the same, and that’s what makes life on board so much fun. From lazy breakfasts and morning swim stops, exploring new ports, to enjoying local food and making the most of the nightlife, there’s something for everyone.
Ready to find your perfect trip? Discover our Elegance, Explorer and Navigator cruises and find the Sail Croatia experience that suits your travel style. We also offer Active cruises, which follow a different style of itinerary designed around cycling, hiking and exploring Croatia on the move.
FAQs
What time is breakfast served on a Sail Croatia cruise?
Breakfast is generally served buffet-style between 8:00 and 9:00 am, depending on the day’s itinerary.
Do Sail Croatia ships sail overnight or during the day?
Sail Croatia ships don’t travel throughout the night and arrive in port in the afternoon so you can explore each destination. You’ll spend your nights docked in port, so you can make the most of each destination from afternoon through to late evening.
Can you stay on the ship while everyone goes ashore?
Yes, you can choose to stay on board and relax if you’d prefer not to go ashore. It’s your holiday, so you can enjoy the day at your own pace.
What happens on a Sail Croatia cruise if the weather is bad?
Itineraries may be adjusted by your Captain depending on weather and sea conditions to keep guests safe and comfortable. Your crew will keep you informed of any changes to your itinerary.
How much should you budget for dinner on a Sail Croatia cruise?
Dinner costs vary by destination and restaurant, so we recommend budgeting according to the local restaurants you’d like to visit. Check your specific itinerary too, as some cruises include special dinner experiences onshore and onboard.
Is there Wi-Fi on a Sail Croatia cruise?
Yes, Wi-Fi is available on board, so you can stay connected while cruising between Croatia’s islands.
Do you have to join the excursions on a Sail Croatia cruise?
No, excursions are optional, so you’re free to join an organised activity, explore independently or relax on board. Your onboard Tour Manager will let you know what’s available at each destination.
Do you have to get up early on a Sail Croatia cruise?
Not necessarily, as guests can sleep through the early morning departure and get up in time for breakfast. While the ship may depart between 7:00 and 7:30 am, breakfast is generally served from 8:00 am.
Are all meals included on a Sail Croatia cruise?
Breakfast and lunch are included every day, while dinner varies depending on your cruise and itinerary. Elegance and Explorer cruises include special dinner experiences, so check your specific cruise for details.
Can you swim straight off a Sail Croatia ship?
Yes, swim stops are a highlight of the trip, with plenty of opportunities to jump straight from the ship into the Adriatic. Stops can range from around 45 minutes to two hours depending on the day.
How long does a Sail Croatia cruise spend in each port?
Time in port varies by itinerary, but afternoons and evenings are generally free for exploring each destination. Optional excursions also take place while you’re in port, giving you the chance to experience more of each destination. Your exact schedule will depend on the route, weather and conditions on the day.