Croatia's Dalmatian Coast and Montenegro

Day 1

Split, Croatia / Embark Ship

Arrive in Split, the largest city on the Dalmatian coast, and transfer to the National Geographic Orion. Settle into your cabin, enjoying your first Dalmatian sunset as you set sail.

Meals Included: Dinner

Day 2

Mljet National Park / Korčula

With one-third of its land designated a national park, the island of Mljet is one of the most heavily forested isles in the Adriatic—and the perfect place to experience Croatia’s rich shades of blue and green. This morning, go for a swim in the Great Lake, stretch your legs on a hike or take a boat trip to the monastery on St. Marija Island. After lunch, experience all that the nearby island of Korčula has to offer, from wine tasting and cooking classes to a walking tour or hike. For those seeking a more heart-pounding experience, there is also the option for an off-road buggy excursion. Later, take in a Moreska sword dance performance, a celebrated Korčula tradition that dates to the 15th century.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3

Dubrovnik

Wake up at the ancient walls of Dubrovnik’s Old City—a UNESCO World Heritage site that is considered one of the best-preserved medieval towns in the world. Choose from several experiences to customize your day. Participate in a guided walk of the fortified walls, go oystering and enjoy a seafood lunch in the neighboring town of Ston, take part in an interactive cooking class in a quaint rural home or learn about traditional silk embroidery at a local workshop.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4

Kotor, Montenegro

Tucked into a bay in the shadow of craggy mountains lies the Montenegrin city of Kotor. Wrapped in medieval walls and dotted with Venetian palaces, churches and red-tiled roofs, Kotor is widely considered one of the most beautiful ports in the Adriatic. Spend the afternoon wine tasting, learning about the production of olive oil or hiking along the old city walls in search of the perfect photo op.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5

Komiža, Croatia / Hvar

One of the outermost Croatian islands, Vis was ruled successively by the ancient Greeks, Romans, Venetians, Austrians and Italians. It became a central Yugoslav military base during World War II and only opened to tourists in the 1990s, making it less developed and less populated than many of its neighbors. On arrival in Komiža, a beautiful coastal town that weaves history and natural wonders, embark on your choice of several optional experiences, including a hike to the headquarters of Yugoslav resistance leader Josip Broz Tito, where he hid troops and weapons in extensive underground tunnels at the end of World War II and into the Cold War. Venture to hillside barracks and hidden bunkers or spend the morning enjoying the charming downtown.   

This afternoon, visit the vibrant town of Hvar—the region’s most prosperous port at the height of Venetian rule. See the area as you wish: kayak through the Pakleni Islands, enjoy an island tour or choose from several incredible hiking options.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6

Šibenik / Krka National Park

This morning, the National Geographic Orion tucks into a narrow cut of St. Anthony’s Channel and sails past the UNESCO World Heritage site of St. Nicolas Fortress en route to Šibenik, a labyrinth of steep backstreets and alleys waiting to be explored. Join local guides on an excursion to Krka National Park and walk along the boardwalk trail to visit Skradinski Buk falls, which cascade through the countryside. Go birding at Vransko Lake, hike along St. Anthony’s Channel or visit Zlarin—the island of corals—with a jewelry tradition dating back to the 14th century. Tour the coral center to learn about Zlarin’s rich history.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7

Zadar / Plitvice Lakes National Park

The old town center of Zadar is the perfect jumping off spot to explore what this region has to offer. Enjoy a full-day excursion to the stunning waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes National Park or visit the village of Pag for a walking tour and stop at the lace workshop and museum that showcases some remarkably intricate designs. Alternatively, join a mountain guide and hit the trails of Paklenica National Park. Or simply soak in Zadar’s many charms. After a day of exploring, enjoy the captain’s farewell dinner.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8

Split / Disembark Ship

Arrive in Split this morning. Enjoy a farewell breakfast on board before disembarking and transferring to the airport for your flight home.

Meals Included: Breakfast