Mediterranean Odyssey Island-Hopping Adventure

After a short flight to Split, Croatia’s second largest city and one of its most treasured places, you will be driven to your hotel by private transfer. The impressive city of Split is home to the impressive UNESCO World Heritage Site of Diocletian’s Palace. Wander the cobbled streets, gazing up at the impressive architecture that covers some 2,000 years of history. Head to the top of Sveti Djue Cathedral to take in the incredible view over it all from the bell tower, explore the Temple of Jupiter and then enjoy a drink in the royal court of Perisyle. After a traditional Dalmatian dinner in one of the popular local restaurants, take a relaxing stroll along the charming Riva promenade.

Spend the morning at leisure, perhaps vising some of the nearby beaches or even the nearby medieval city of Trogir. Take the private transfer to your cruise ship where you will be able to check in from 1400hrs. You can relax in your deluxe cabin or join a guided tour of the beautiful historical old town. Split boasts an abundance of classic Roman architecture on every corner of the vast ancient part of the old town. Return to the ship for the Welcome meet and greet cocktail reception on board. You will be introduced to the Captain, crew and fellow Croatia island hopping passengers. Overnight in Split.

Today we visit one of the area’s most beautiful and photographed beaches – the Zlatni Rat. Known as the Golden Cape, this long strip of white sandy beach is ideal for swimming and is close to the old fishing town of Bol on the island of Brac. After lunch on board, we visit the jet-set island of Hvar – the longest and sunniest island in the Adriatic. Flanked by colourful lavender fields, the island’s hub of Hvar Town is another historic marvel set against a backdrop of sun-bleached white houses and tranquil turquoise sea and exudes the magical Mediterranean charm of yesteryear. Gaze in awe at its landmark stunning cathedral and delight in the magical panoramas of the city, by walking to the top of the town fort. Spend a wonderful evening indulging in the bars, restaurants and caf...

We head toward Bisevo to explore the breathtaking Blue Cave. A natural marvel, the Blue Cave is a sea grotto of illuminated light. Visit the remote but remarkable island of Vis, once home to a naval Yugoslav base which is entirely untouched and unspoilt but is famed for being the idyllic setting for the hit movie – Mama Mia 2! Discover the ancient northern side, known for being the first urban centre in Croatia and perhaps sample local wines from the island’s traditional wineries. Explore the city in your own pace and visit the ruins of a once magical Roman thermal place. Learn more at the City Museum or walk along the Villae Rusticae. Overnight in Vis.

Depart Vis and set sail towards the magnificent Korcula Island, famed for being the birthplace of the famous explorer, Marco Polo. Lunch at a secluded bay before taking a local guided tour through the charming old town, with its city walls and medieval architecture. Admire the unique fish bone street patterns in the Old Town where you can find a great selection of independent bars and restaurants to sample a range of tasty local food and take in some evening entertainment.

Travel south to the island of Mljet, known for its legends that date back to Greek Mythology. The island is also known for its natural beauty with its stunning lush forests and unique salt lakes in Mljet National Park. After a guided tour through the lush woods towards the famous salt lakes, take a boat ride to St. Mary Isle, where you will find a delightful medieval church and a Benedictine monastery. If you’re feeling active, explore the island by renting kayaks, scooters or bicycles, the ideal way to experience the stunning national park. Overnight in Mljet National Park.

The enchanting village of Slano, on the mainland, is our destination this morning. Slano is a peaceful traditional fishermen’s village and the entrance point to Ston, another fortified small village that is famous for its oysters. After exploring the town’s historical medieval ramparts, a short coastal walk will take you to an oyster farm, where you can sample fresh oysters and learn more about this delicacy. Enjoy a fine dinner at the Captain’s Dinner back on board with entertainment and music. Overnight in Slano/ Ston.

We will arrive at the captivating coastal city of Dubrovnik that needs little introduction with its iconic sights. It is a well-preserved ancient city that takes you back to the days of the Dubrovnik Republic. Learn about the rich history of the city, including the Renaissance and Gothic influences seen in the city’s architecture. Enjoy a guided walking tour through the old town where you will experience the city in all its glory. You may decide to take the cable car, high above the city, offering the best views of city and islands. You might also take a leisurely afternoon stroll in the city scaling the city walls. Treat yourself to a gourmet dinner or a refreshing cocktail with sea views. Overnight in Dubrovnik.

We will arrange for a private transfer from the cruise ship to Dubrovnik airport for your short flight to Athens. This spectacular city has undeniably the most glorious world history, a city which is worshipped by gods and people. This enchanting Greek capital, has always been marked as the birthplace for modern civilization. After checking into your hotel, you will enjoy some time at leisure to explore the city. Indulge your inner foodie and sample the edible delights of Athens. Take to the streets to visit Athens’ cafés, markets, delicatessens, street food haunts and hidden specialty food stores and learn more about the city’s rich culinary heritage.

Explore the iconic sights of Athens and delve into the rich history and heritage on a private half-day tour of the city’s headline acts led by a knowledgeable local guide. Explore the UNESCO-listed ruins of the Acropolis of Athens and dive into the mythological world of Ancient Greece as you visit the Parthenon, the Temple of Zeus and Temple of Athena Nike. You’ll also get chance to see the Panathenian Stadium, where the first Olympic Games was held in the 19th century; witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony outside the Greek Parliament; and visit the National Gardens. In the evening, sample local treats like sweet donuts known as loukoumades, Greek bread and regional cheeses, washed down with Greek wine and freshly brewed coffee

You will take your private transfer to Athens airport for your short domestic flight to the majestic island of Santorini. Pretty sugar-cubed towns with blue-domed churches and world-famous sunsets set the scene but that’s just the start of the island’s charms. You will check into your luxury boutique hotel and have a moment to take in the wonderful views over the dramatic Caldera cliffside. We would recommend that you sample the delicious local cuisine in one of the tavernas in the capital Fira, whilst admiring the world-famous sunset. Admire the cliffs, where the volcanic land meets white mansions and yposkafas, surrounded by the brilliant blue sea.

Your private guide will meet you after breakfast for your tour of Santorini with the personalised attention of our passionate and informative guide. Visit the best spots on the island, including the enchanting cliffside village of Oia, filled with white-washed sugar-cube style buildings overlooking the dramatic caldera. Explore Santorini’s Red and Black beaches, whose volcanic sand lives up to their respective names. Also, Akrotiri which features bronze age ruins mired in cooled lava from an ancient volcanic eruption. Another highlight is the Moni Profiti Ilia Monastery, resting on the highest point in Santorini, 1,701 feet in altitude with truly breathtaking views of the island and surrounding turquoise seas.

A trip for wine-lovers to the island’s renowned vineyards. Learn about winemaking on the island and of its unique viticulture as you travel through the spectacular countryside. With its volcanic aspa soil, Santorini is able to produce wine that is rich in minerals. The island’s grapes are grown in baskets that are set close to the soil — an act that helps moisture from rain to be retained. Tour the cellars of each wine estate and follow the production process through from harvesting the grapes through to maturing the wine. Sample up to 12 different wines, including local vinsanto and assyrtiko as well as the delicious local olives, bread and cheese. In the early evening, go to Oia to admire one of the world’s most spectacular sunsets

You will be collected by private transfer from your hotel and driven to Santorini airport after a very memorable experience of two incredible countries. You will be flown back to Athens where we will arrange an additional night in this city depending on your requirements for your onward travel.