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Croatia Cruises: Explore the Adriatic's Beauty

Published April 23, 2024

Updated August 1, 2025

Travel Experts

at The Cruise Web

Buildings with terracotta roofs in front of the coastline in Sibenik, Croatia.
Buildings with terracotta roofs in front of the coastline in Sibenik, Croatia.

Embark on a journey of a lifetime with Croatia cruises, where every port is a new adventure and every moment is filled with beauty. Cruise along the stunning Adriatic coastline, exploring ancient cities, charming towns, and picturesque islands.

Dive into crystal-clear waters, savor local cuisine, and immerse yourself in Croatia's rich history and culture. Join us as we guide you through the wonders of Croatia cruises, where each day brings a new discovery and each night is a celebration of the beauty that is Croatia. 

What Makes Croatia a Great Cruise Destination

Croatia offers a unique cruising experience that combines stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Here are some reasons why you should consider Croatia for your next cruise.

Scenic Beauty

Croatia's coastline is renowned for its stunning beauty, with clear waters, rugged cliffs, and picturesque islands. Cruising along the Adriatic Sea offers breathtaking views that you will not find anywhere else. 

Historic Sites

Croatia is home to a wealth of historic sites, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Dubrovnik's Old Town and Diocletian's Palace in Split. Explore ancient ruins, medieval castles, and centuries-old churches as you cruise along the coast. 

Charming Towns and Villages

Croatia's coastline is dotted with charming towns and villages, each with its own unique character. From the romantic streets of Hvar Town to the historic charm of Korcula Town, you will find plenty to explore and discover. 

Island Hopping

Croatia boasts over a thousand islands, offering endless opportunities for island hopping. Visit secluded beaches, charming fishing villages, and untouched natural landscapes as you hop from island to island. 

Cultural Experiences

Croatia's rich culture is evident in its cuisine, music, and traditions. Sample local delicacies, attend a traditional folk-dance performance, or visit a local market to immerse yourself in Croatian culture. 

Outdoor Adventures

Croatia's diverse landscape offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures. Go hiking in the mountains, kayaking along the coast, or cycling through picturesque vineyards for an active cruise experience. 

Warm Hospitality

Croatians are known for their warm hospitality and friendly demeanor. You will feel welcomed and at home as you explore this stunning country and interact with its welcoming people.

View Cruises to Croatia

Top Ports in Croatia

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik Old Town walls from above.

Known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," Dubrovnik is a must-visit destination. Explore the UNESCO-listed Old Town with its ancient walls and stunning architecture. Do not miss excursions to Lokrum Island, just a short boat ride away, offering pristine beaches and lush gardens. 

Top Dubrovnik Shore Excursions

City Walls Tour

Walk along the historic city walls of Dubrovnik for panoramic views of the city and the sea. 

Game of Thrones Tour

Visit filming locations from the popular TV series and immerse yourself in the world of Westeros. 

Sea Kayaking Adventure

Explore the coastline of Dubrovnik by sea kayak, discovering hidden coves and caves along the way. 

Cable Car Ride

Take a cable car ride to the top of Mount Srd for spectacular views of Dubrovnik and the surrounding area. 

Elaphiti Islands Cruise

Discover the beauty of the Elaphiti Islands on a day cruise, visiting the islands of Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan. 

View Cruises to Dubrovnik.

Split

Courtyard of Diocletian's Palace in Split, Croatia.

Split is home to Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the 4th century. Explore the palace complex, which has been remarkably well preserved and is still inhabited today.

Explore nearby islands from Split, such as Hvar and Brac, famous for their stunning beaches and lively nightlife.

Top Split Shore Excursions

Island Hopping

Take a boat tour to the nearby islands of Hvar and Brac, known for their beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. 

Krka National Park

Visit Krka National Park and swim under the stunning waterfalls of Skradinski Buk. 

Cetina River Rafting

Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting on the Cetina River, surrounded by stunning natural scenery. 

Split Food Tour

Discover the flavors of Dalmatian cuisine with a guided food tour of Split, sampling local dishes and wines. 

Blue Cave Tour

Visit the famous Blue Cave on Biševo Island and witness its stunning blue light effects. 

View Cruises to Split.

Hvar

An aerial view of the picturesque harbor in Hvar, Croatia, with a bustling marina full of boats, red-roofed buildings of the town, and small, green islands dotting the turquoise sea.

Hvar is famous for its lavender fields, Venetian architecture, and vibrant nightlife. Explore the charming streets of Hvar Town, visit the historic fortress overlooking the town, and take a boat tour to the nearby Pakleni Islands for some of the best beaches in Croatia. 

Top Hvar Shore Excursions

Wine Tasting Tour

Visit local vineyards and taste some of the island's renowned wines, including the famous Plavac Mali. 

Pakleni Islands Cruise

Explore the beautiful Pakleni Islands, known for their crystal-clear waters and secluded beaches. 

Hvar Fortress Hike

Hike up to the Hvar Fortress for panoramic views of the town and the surrounding islands. 

Scuba Diving Adventure

Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Hvar and explore underwater caves, shipwrecks, and vibrant marine life. 

Biking Tour

Discover the island's picturesque landscapes on a guided biking tour, cycling through vineyards, olive groves, and coastal paths. 

View Cruises to Hvar.

Korcula

A scenic view of Korcula Old Town in Croatia, featuring red-tiled roofs, a church steeple, and a historic stone wall set against the deep blue Adriatic Sea and lush green mountains.

Korcula is said to be the birthplace of Marco Polo and is a treasure trove of history and culture. Explore the medieval Old Town with its narrow streets and ancient buildings, and don't miss the opportunity to visit the local vineyards for a taste of the island's renowned wines. 

Top Korcula Shore Excursions

Marco Polo House Museum

Visit the house believed to be the birthplace of Marco Polo and learn about his fascinating life. 

Lumbarda Beach Day

Relax on the sandy beaches of Lumbarda and enjoy the clear waters of the Adriatic Sea. 

Korcula Island Biking

Explore the island's beautiful landscapes by bike, cycling through vineyards, olive groves, and picturesque villages. 

Korcula Town Walking Tour

Discover the history and culture of Korcula Town with a guided walking tour, visiting landmarks like St. Mark's Cathedral and the Marco Polo House. 

Windsurfing Lesson

Learn how to windsurf in the waters off Korcula Island, with lessons suitable for beginners and experienced surfers alike. 

View Cruise to Korcula.

Zadar

An aerial view of Zadar, Croatia, showcasing the historic old town with its red-tiled roofs, the marina filled with boats, and the stunning blue waters of the Adriatic Sea.

Zadar is a city rich in history and culture, with a unique blend of ancient and modern attractions. Visit the Sea Organ, an incredible musical instrument powered by the sea, and the Sun Salutation, a stunning light installation that reacts to the sun's movements.

From Zadar, you can also take excursions to nearby national parks like Plitvice Lakes, known for their stunning waterfalls and pristine lakes. 

Top Zadar Shore Excursions

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Visit one of Croatia's most beautiful national parks, known for its stunning waterfalls and crystal-clear lakes. 

Zadar Walking Tour

Explore the historic streets of Zadar with a guided walking tour, including highlights like the Roman Forum and St. Donatus Church. 

Kornati Islands Cruise

Take a boat tour to the Kornati Islands, a stunning archipelago known for its rugged coastline and crystal-clear waters. 

Sunset Sailing Cruise

Enjoy a romantic sunset cruise around the Zadar archipelago, with stunning views of the coastline and the sun setting over the sea. 

Kayaking Adventure

Explore the Zadar coastline by kayak, paddling through hidden coves and sea caves with a local guide.

View Cruises to Zadar.

Tips for Croatia Cruises

Best Time to Visit Croatia

The best time to cruise Croatia is from May to October, with peak season in July and August for warm weather and lively coastal towns. For fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures, consider cruising in May, June, or September.

Voyage Length

Croatia cruises typically last 7 to 10 days, though shorter or longer cruises may be available during peak travel season.

Packing Tips

Pack light, breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, and swimwear. Don't forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. 

Currency & Language

The official currency of Croatia is the Croatian Kuna (HRK), and the official language is Croatian. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but it's always helpful to learn a few basic phrases in Croatian. 

Croatia is a cruising paradise waiting to be explored. Whether you're interested in history, culture, nature, or simply relaxing on stunning beaches, Croatia has something for everyone. So, book your cruise, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable journey along the stunning coastline of Croatia.

Ready to book your cruise to Croatia? Contact The Cruise Web at 1-800-377-9383 or visit cruiseweb.com to start planning your dream Croatian cruise with an expert!