Sailing Croatia with an Always Croatia Small Ship Cruise

Have you ever dreamed of sailing Croatia along the Dalmatian Coast? I have. The sunlight sparkles that dance on top of the Adriatic Sea have been whispering to me to go sailing, ever since I first visited Croatia in 2018. I loved the islands I visited, but my soul craved more time on the water. Then in July 2026, my wish came true when I boarded the Always Croatia luxury small ship cruise! This seven night Croatia sailing excursion gave me everything I hoped for as we sailed along the Dalmatian Coast. We made stops at my favorite islands, with swim stops along the way. A small ship cruise is the perfect way to see the very best of Croatia in a convenient, intimate, luxurious, and relaxed way. Keep reading to learn more about why you should consider a luxury Croatia small ship cruise with Always Croatia.

In this article, I’m going to tell you everything you need to know about the Always Croatia luxury small ship cruise along with what makes Always Croatia so special. I will also tell you all about every glorious day I spent on the ship. This was my third time in Croatia. And sailing along the Adriatic Sea made me fall in love with the Dalmatian Coast in a way that I have never experienced. If you’re researching Dalmatian Coast small ship cruises, this is precisely the one I’d point you to.

What is a Croatia small ship cruise like on board the San Antonio?

The Always Croatia luxury small ship cruise we experienced was a seven night sailing excursion aboard the beautiful San Antonio ship. With four floors, and cabins for 36 guests, there is ample space for every guest to enjoy the ship as they wish and make it their home for 7 days. You will enjoy every breakfast, most lunches, and a few dinners on board, but otherwise, your nights are for you to do as you please in whatever city or town you are docked in that day.

Aboard the small ship, There was also a 9 person Croatian team including Captain Luka, Ivan- the Cruise Ship Director, and a fantastic group that I’ll talk more about shortly, because they really made the ship feel like home.

Sailing Croatia: small ship cruise vs yacht charter vs sailing week

When I told people I was going sailing in Croatia, half of them pictured something completely different from the week I actually had. So let’s look at different types of sailing holidays. They all have similar names, so it’s important that you know the details behind the title. So before you read another word, here’s how a Croatia small ship cruise compares to the alternatives. The short version: Dalmatian Coast small ship cruises sit in the middle ground. Everything is handled, and nothing is herded.

What stops does the Ship make along the Dalmatian coast? | Croatia small ship cruise itinerary

Most Dalmatian Coast small ship cruises follow a similar arc, and ours started in Dubrovnik. From there, the ship made swim stops along the coast of the Adriatic Sea, and docked in at least one port every day. After Dubrovnik, the ship then went to Bay of Slano, and an Oyster farm in Mali Ston. Then it was off to Korčula island, and then Vis Island– My forever favorite! This is where I joined the small ship cruise. We then went to the Blue Cave, Hvar, Trogir, Brac, Krka National Park, and a small town for the most memorable lunch before the end of the cruise- which was in Šibenik. Keep reading, because I’ll go into more detail about the full itinerary below.  

What is included on the Always Croatia 7 night Luxury Small Ship Cruise?

When you sail with Always Croatia, you are getting a week of planned excursions. All are included except for the Blue Cave. You are also getting a cabin with an ensuite bathroom, breakfast on board every morning, and coffee all day long. Lunch is on board almost every day, except for the hosted lunch at the end of the week-which is included in the cost. Also included is a private transfer to and from the airport at the beginning and end of your cruise. This was such an enjoyable luxury that I had never experienced.

Truly, I’d say this cruise was almost completely all-inclusive except for most drinks on board, and evenings where you will have dinner and independent time in town. For the rest of the details and the full week program take a look at their website.

Sailing Croatia: How our journey began in Split

Split airport to the Port of Split

My journey began in Split where I was greeted by an Always Croatia team member at the airport before being escorted to the driver who took me to the port of Split. Always Croatia organizes the details of every single person’s arrival to make sure you don’t have to worry about anything from the moment you collect your baggage. 

They also made my reservation for the ferry, and my driver showed me exactly where I needed to go. It was so nice to not need to worry about how I was going to get from point A to Point B. All I had to do was sit back, relax, and let the team handle everything. It was the loveliest little luxury.

Communication before I arrived

I was so impressed by the way the Always Croatia team was able to make things happen, and communicate before I arrived.  Christy led the way, and made me feel looked after from the moment we spoke to the check- in text when I arrived on the ship. She then passed the communication on to Magdelena who worked so quickly and with so much care. I wasn’t sure if I would make my connecting flight after landing in London, so she checked in every step of the way. 

Somewhere between me running to my gate “Home Alone” style, and boarding the flight-I sent Magdelena a message. Thankfully, I would be in Split on time! And then somehow, right before takeoff, she sent me my pickup and ferry information. Incredible!  So when I landed, there were no questions. The only thing I had to do was collect my luggage and keep my eyes open for the Always Croatia sign.  

A Driver You Can Trust 

The driver who picked me up was Damir. The owner of a private transportation company who is a trusted driver for Always Croatia. He was so pleasant and kind, Before long, we were chatting about Croatia, its history, and our favorite places. Including Vis Island, an island that was quite transformative for me when I spent 10 days there back in 2023.

Damir and I also spoke of slow travel and the importance of staying somewhere for a longer period of time so you could feel a place- not just see it. Here at Dutchbloggeronthemove we believe that these are wise words to live by.  

This would not be the last time I saw Damir. Keep reading, because he presented Lisa and I with the most special gift as we said goodbye at the end of our stay.

The Port of Split: Take a Ferry or a Catamaran

Damir dropped me off at the Port of Split and showed me exactly where I should board the Catamaran to Vis island.  This was extremely helpful since the port is quite large!  Also, the ferries and the catamarans leave from completely different sides of the port.  Could I have figured this out by myself?  Of course.  But I cannot tell you how nice it was to sit back and let someone else be in charge. 

I said goodbye to Damir and walked to find a mint lemonade and a sandwich along the port while I waited for my catamaran in the shade. Croatia is hot in July!  I was so glad that I came equipped with a sun hat and sunscreen.

Who is Always Croatia?

Always Croatia is a Croatian-American sailing and tourism company founded by Christy Kranjec.  Always Croatia designs sailing and land excursions that are carefully curated so their guests can experience the very best of Croatia in a luxurious yet approachable way. The result is a luxury small ship cruise in Croatia that is never stiff, but instead leaves you invigorated! From the expected destinations to the authentic moments that are exclusive to Always Croatia- they have a wide variety of unique tours that will give you the kind of experience you could only dream of. 

The Always Croatia team from the captain, to the crew, to the cruise ship director are all Croatian, and absolute pros at leading their guests on a safe, relaxing, and enjoyable journey along the Adriatic Sea. 

They understand the needs of travelers, and know how to enhance the experience of the guests with their kind, helpful, and welcoming nature.  From Šimun’s infectious smile every morning to the way that Duje and Ivan made the swim stops more fun.  I will also never forget meeting the Captain’s daughter! It felt like I boarded the ship as the guest of a family, whose only goal was to help me have the kind of vacation on the sea that I dreamed of.  

The Heart of Always Croatia 

To me, what sets Always Croatia apart from everyone else, is the philosophy at the heart of everything they do. They believe that the best way to see Croatia is through the eyes of the people that know it best.  The Croatian People.  Always Croatia wants to bring their guests authentic and local experiences by letting local Croatians be their guide.

From every walking tour, to the remarkable lunch on a farm, to the crew on board, and my favorite part! The beautiful ship we were sailing on was owned by its remarkable Croatian Captain.  In a time where tourism is not always about giving back to the destination, Always Croatia is giving tourists an authentic and exclusive Croatian experience while paying it forward to their country, and every single town and city that the ship docks in.   

My Third time in Croatia 

This was my third time in Croatia, and being aboard the ship allowed me to revisit many beautiful destinations, learn more about Croatia’s history, and enjoy new experiences on the Dalmatian Coast. This was my very first cruise! I was so excited to unpack my bags and experience life on the sea.

There is something to be said for routine, and I just loved walking outside my cabin and being greeted by the sea before I had my first cup of coffee. It was about a 2 minute walk to the next floor for breakfast every morning. This was one of my favorite parts of every day, because I wasn’t dreaming! My wish of sailing on the Adriatic Sea had finally come true.

Who was on board of the small ship cruise in Croatia?

For this Croatia luxury small ship cruise, Lisa and I joined 31 guests on board. There was one large group from Brooklyn, New York and California celebrating their friend’s 50th birthday. Another multi-generational group celebrating their Parent’s 55th wedding anniversary. One couple from Norway by way of Texas, and then there was the most beautiful family with their little one.  And there was another group of lovely folks that included a couple of Chicagoans. I sure do love meeting people from my hometown!

The guests were thoughtful and kind, and even though I joined a few days late, they all welcomed me with open arms. It felt like I was the new kid in class, but I was immediately invited to sit amongst them! And by the end of the first day I felt like I’d been there since the beginning. The group may have ranged in age, but one thing is for certain. Everyone on board was young at heart, with a desire to see Croatia while sailing on the sea.

The Croatia Sailing itinerary | Dalmatian Coast small ship cruise

The 7 night luxury small ship cruise cruise began on a Saturday in Dubrovnik. Unfortunately Lisa and I missed the first few days due to our work schedules, but I’ll still give you the itinerary so you know what to expect for your own journey.

The Journey Begins in Dubrovnik

Saturday, Day 1: The journey began in Dubrovnik, which is the perfect place to start, or end a trip to Croatia. With a stunning old town, and iconic firey rooftops, this is a city that deserves numerous days, so plan accordingly! I recommend arriving ahead of time. While in Dubrovnik you will have a group walking tour throughout the city as well- definitely a must!

Sunday, Day 2: From Dubrovnik, the ship made its way to the Bay of Slano, and then to Mali Ston to visit an Oyster Farm! As an oyster lover, I’m so sad that I missed this excursion.

Monday, Day 3: From Mali Ston, the ship made its way to Korčula. This is a majestic island that I visited back in 2018. It’s a medieval town that is said to be the birthplace of the famous explorer- Marco Polo. While in Korčula, you will have a guided walking tour to learn more about the island.

Tuesday, Day 4: Vis Island

From Korčula, the ship made its way to Vis Island, which is where I joined the ship. Before I joined in the fun, the ship made a swim stop. The guests also experienced an exclusive wine tasting on the island. The wine on Vis island is exceptional! I can only imagine that it was very special. Then, the ship docked in the early evening and the guests could make plans for their own dinner in Vis Town, or in Komiza.  

I was met at the Catamaran by the Cruise Director, Ivan. As a band director and teacher myself, I had such admiration for the way that he directed our experience aboard the ship, and was available for everyone aboard. He truly was the maestro of our sailing experience!

My room aboard the Croatia small ship cruise

It was such a surreal experience to be back on Vis Island. I was excited to spend some time in Vis Town, which is where the ship was docked. Ivan pointed out the ship- which was parked at sea and in between a few others. This was very curious to me! And I would quickly experience how to board the San Antonio Ship even when it wasn’t docked next to land. What a first! I’ll never forget it.

Ivan showed me my room, or cabin, that I would share with Lisa when she arrived. The cabins were on the first floor and the layout was perfect! Two very comfortable twin beds, a delightful air conditioner, and 2 sets of  perfectly placed drawers. There was also a closet that easily fit all of MY things, AND Lisa’s when she arrived. Whoever designed the ship really knew what they were doing! 

Cabins on a luxury small ship cruise in Croatia

The 146 ft ship was very modern and comfortable in its design.  While the ship was built in 2018, The San Antonio was just updated in 2025. The bathroom also had a fantastic setup with plenty of counter space and storage under the sink for all of our things.  I also want to mention that the lighting in our room and in the bathroom was wonderful!  From a low light under the bed that was perfect for bedtime, to the mirror lighting that I needed when I was getting ready for the day. This is not always the case when I am traveling, so I am very happy to report that I could see exactly what I was doing with my makeup  no matter what room I was in.  

And last but not least, our cabin had a brilliant sea view.  Of course! This was my first time on any sort of cruise ship, so I wasn’t sure how I’d feel about sleeping right next to the sea. Well, I absolutely loved it! The view was priceless, and I’m convinced that the reason I slept so well aboard the ship, is because being near water tends to have a calming effect on me.  

One Night on Vis island:

After settling in, I had a glass of Croatian Rosé wine with Ivan. I also met Nikol, the cabin attendant, and Marina, one of the bartenders in the dining room.  This is where the day’s itinerary was posted on a chalkboard, and also where all of our meals would be served.  

After a quick tour of the ship, Ivan and I made our way out for a walk in Vis Town. We then went to dinner on my favorite side of the island- Komiza.

Vis Island- A Heavenly Destination in Croatia

If you’ve been following me for awhile, then you know how much I love Vis Island and Komiza!  I spent 10 days there a few years ago. To say that I fell in love would be an understatement.  There is just something so special about Vis.

As Ivan and I approached Komiza from the highest point of the island, the colors of the sunset brought a tear to my eye. What a blessing to be back! We had dinner at Konoba Jastozera and ended the meal with my favorite. The fig liqueur that was made from the fig tree right outside their front door.  

Julie’s Tips:   

When the ship makes a stop on Vis Island, ask your cruise director for the number of a taxi driver to take you from Vis Town to Komiza. You can read more about my favorite restaurants in Komiza here along with my travel stories and everything you need to know about Vis Island. 

Wednesday, Day 5: From the Blue Cave to Hvar Island

The ship left Vis around 5:30am, and when I woke up, I could barely feel the ship moving. So, I opened up the curtain to witness the San Antonio sailing along the Adriatic Sea to make sure I wasn’t still dreaming.  What a view! What a moment.  And this cruise had only just begun.

The Blue Cave

The ship then made its way to the Blue Cave where we would disembark.  In order to see the blue cave you must board a small boat.  While this was an optional excursion for everyone aboard, the Blue Cave is a must see in Croatia!  It’s hard to explain how miraculous it is to experience the way that nature alone illuminates the cave in the most beautiful shades of blue.  

Breakfast on Board every morning: Sailing Croatia

From there, we had breakfast on board, as we would every morning.  The rest of the day was basically free except for a lovely multi-course group lunch on board. Then Ivan took a deep dive into Croatian History for anyone interested.  I also had plenty of time to spend on the sun deck, which is on the top floor of the ship, before having a swim.  

Sadly, this was the final swim stop of the cruise, but the ship had already made numerous swim stops on the days I had missed.  A swim stop is where the ship docks on a cove somewhere quiet along the Adriatic Sea.  In this case, we were somewhere between Vis, and the island of Hvar.  

Swim Stops

Swim stops are one of the great pleasures of sailing in Croatia, so I encourage you to get out there and have a swim. They have everything you need to assist you if you are not big on swimming.  From a big water mat to water noodles to many other high tech water toys that the boys were using- it was just so much fun.  

To Swim or Not to Swim when sailing Croatia

And for those of you that aren’t sure about swimming in the sea, allow me to share my own fears with you.  While I love being near the water, I’m not the best swimmer. What lurks beneath scares me a bit.  Plus, you may have read in my Vis article that I had a run in with a jelly fish a few years ago and ended up breaking my toe- it’s a story!  So when I got in the water that day, I had my reservations…but here’s the thing.  The freedom I feel when I am swimming in the Adriatic Sea far outweighs all of my fears.

The swim stop was one of my favorite parts of the cruise, and I wish I could have experienced more of them!  It was only my 2nd day, and I was already feeling a level of bliss and relaxation that usually takes weeks to sink in. My time on the ship and all of the conversations I was already having with the guests aboard were so special and memorable- and Lisa wasn’t even there yet!

Hvar Island: Sailing Croatia with Always Croatia

We docked in Hvar and went on a walking tour. Hvar is a beautiful island known for their fortress, lavender, and having a very vibrant night life.  For the walking tour, I was given a “Whisper” radio guide.  As someone who has trouble hearing in many situations, this system was such a blessing!  The tour guide could speak at a normal level, and I could hear everything she said-no matter where I was standing.  Thank you to Always Croatia for this incredibly inclusive addition to your tours!  

After the walking tour, I took a stroll and made my way to the water front for a glass of Croatian White Wine.  What a joy to be back in Hvar! Lisa would arrive in just about an hour, and I was so excited to make new memories.  

Lisa finally arrives!

When Lisa arrived, Ivan and I met her at the ferry and so our 3rd trip together began!  If you are new to reading Dutchbloggeronthemove, Lisa is the founder of Dutchbloggeronthemove. We met online 6 years ago when I started writing for her website.  Now she is one of my closest and dearest friends.

After Lisa got settled in our cabin, we had a glass of wine with Ivan on the sun deck before making our way to dinner.  One pizza, a bottle of Posip (A Croatian white wine), and a caprese salad somehow became 2 pizzas!  It was so wonderful to catch up with my best friend.   

And then, we made our way to find the fun that the island is known for.  We had drinks, socialized with the locals, and even did some dancing.  Oh what a night! But all good things must come to an end, so we made our way back to the ship.  

Conveniently located every single night

Another great thing about Dalmatian Coast small ship cruises is that every night, your home is in the heart of everything. The port. You don’t have to pack and unpack every night and jump on a ferry in order to see new things. You have a comfortable place to sleep in a modern room with breakfast and familiar faces every single day.  And your “hotel “is the most conveniently located accommodation. No matter the destination.  

The night that we were dancing queens on Hvar island, we didn’t have to walk the streets looking for our hotel in the dark. I actually had to do that years ago, and trust me!  Staying in the center of town was a dream.  We just looked for the port and the beautiful blue and white San Antonio Ship. It was easy to find, and a very quick walk from the best restaurants, bars, sites, and all of the fun.  And the city was all lit up at night- what a beautiful sight to see. 

Who should book a Croatia sailing experience with Always Croatia?

If you are looking to see as much of Croatia as possible while spending time on the sea, then I cannot recommend this Croatia small ship cruise enough!  I love that almost everything is planned for you. There is a nice mix of excursions, and time for relaxing on the sea in a space that exudes a quiet luxury. It’s comfortable, inclusive, and invites you to feel right at home.  Even if you’ve traveled to Croatia before like I have, you’ve never experienced it quite like this.

If you’ve been scrolling through Dalmatian Coast small ship cruise options and can’t tell them apart, let me share a secret. The difference is in the people. A luxury small ship cruise with Always Croatia is genuinely one of a kind.

Always Croatia provides a beautiful itinerary that also gives you the opportunity to be spontaneous when they dock at a different location every evening.  So perhaps the more important question is this. Who should not go on a small ship cruise with Always Croatia?  I actually don’t have an answer for this. I would recommend this Croatia small ship cruise experience to anyone who loves travel, and doesn’t have issues being on a boat on the sea.

What about motion sickness? Sailing Croatia

With that being said, I do get motion nausea at times when I am in the back seat of a car, and I did not have any consistent issues on board the ship. There was one day that the sea was a bit choppy, but then I did what the crew recommended and I felt just fine.  They say that it’s best to look outside and get out of your cabin if possible. Problem solved!  

What does a Croatia small ship cruise cost?

Let’s talk about money, because I know that’s the part you’re actually wondering about.

A seven night sailing excursion with Always Croatia from Dubrovnik to Šibenik, based on double-occupancy, starts at around $ 2395 USD per person for a lower deck cabin, and runs to roughly $3895 USD depending on the month and the week. Looking to experience Always Croatia Solo? For a single cabin on the San Antonio Ship, the prices range from $2995 to $4995 USD depending on what month you travel. Head to their website to obtain your personal quote!

I know that number may like a lot sitting there on its own. But a luxury small ship cruise in Croatia isn’t priced like a hotel room. Let me show you what you’re actually buying.

• What’s included: your cabin, breakfast every single morning, most lunches on board, a handful of dinners, every airport and port transfer, the guided walking tour in each port, and a nine person Croatian crew. That last one is worth far more than it sounds. In seven days I did not book a single taxi, ferry or tour. And don’t forget 7 days of sailing and swimming in the sea!
• What’s not included: your flights, drinks on board, the optional Blue Cave excursion, the dinners you eat ashore, and tips for the crew.

It’s all planned for you

Let’s say that I spent a week island hopping on the Dalmatian coast by myself. I’d be paying for hotels, ferries, taxis, meals, and excursions in every town. I’d also be spending so much time arranging all of it. Plus I’d be packing and unpacking constantly. This would take time and energy away from my holiday.

On a small ship cruise with Always Croatia, all of the details are folded into one number. So when you’re researching the price of an Always Croatia small ship cruise, make sure to compare it to what a week on the Dalmatian Coast would genuinely cost you if you had to put the trip together yourself. Also keep in mind that the Always Croatia experience is something you simply cannot recreate on your own.

Thursday, Day 6: Bol on the Island of Brač to Trogir

The next morning, the ship was on its way to our next destination.  After breakfast, we would spend a couple hours in Bol- which is a town on the island of Brač. Bol has plenty of beaches, and an unforgettable shady walkway along the sea.  This is a place that I would love to come back to! 

We were all given an option that morning of what we wanted to do. Even though I was a bit tired from the night before, Lisa and I boarded the mini open-air vehicle at the port. We then drove about 15 minutes to yet another beautiful beach in Croatia.  

Beautiful Croatia

Truly. Croatia is such a beautiful country! And while every single beach and view is beautiful, I assure you that every view and every island feels different. As you know, Vis island is my personal favorite, but I loved every place we visited on this cruise in a different way. 

The Ship was my Home Base

As someone who loves to have a home base and get to know a destination when they travel, I realized something very important while sailing across the Adriatic Sea on the San Antonio.  The ship was my homebase.  And even though we visited a new location every day. I was still able to get to the heart of Croatia in a way that I had never experienced before.  

Was it the magic of the sea? Or perhaps it was the environment that the Always Croatia staff created to make me feel so connected. That even after a couple weeks, I would give anything to go back! I want to wake up just one more day aboard the ship, so I could have one more adventure on the sea.  

Brač Island: A must visit

I am so glad we were able to see Brač island and have a couple hours to relax in the sunshine.  I would love to go back! There were tourists there, but it felt like a very healthy amount. There were so many places on the island that I would love to discover for myself. Lisa and I walked back to the ship, and then it was all aboard! We took the afternoon to relax on the sundeck while the ship made its way to Trogir- our final stop for the night.  

Trogir, Croatia

When we arrived in Trogir, we had the option to go on a walking tour with the group, but Lisa and I decided to spend some time on the ship filming our Podcast-Global Curiosity 101- on the sun deck.  Trogir is a gorgeous city! What a joy to have it as our backdrop as we discussed everything travel, and Croatia! We have so much fun filming the podcast when we are in the same country since Lisa lives in the Netherlands, and I live in Chicago.  

After filming, we made our way out to enjoy the city of Trogir just in time for Golden Hour! I think you can see it all over our faces in these photos- we were in heaven. And after a stroll around the city,  we found a place to enjoy a Croatian white wine or two. 

Croatian Wine is a must

While sailing in Croatia, I highly recommend trying the local wines no matter what island or city you visit. Croatia has some of the best wine I’ve ever had the joy of drinking! Just trust me, and you will be delighted, I promise.

Then we made our way back to the ship. We joined many of the guests on board who were watching the World Cup match in the dining room. At some point, this turned into a bit of a dance party before I made my way down to the cabin to get some much needed rest.   

Can you do a Croatia small ship cruise solo?

As a lover of solo travel, I am always thinking about whether or not something is suitable for one person. When I boarded the ship, I did so alone. And immediately everyone aboard included me and made me feel so welcome. 

And while every cruise is different due to the people always changing on board, the thing is this.  That even if you are alone, I am confident that the crew would make you feel right at home. 

Similarly, I have a sneaky feeling that you will meet some really great guests on board as well. That’s just the way this small ship cruise is set up. You arrive as strangers, and you go home feeling connected.  I also felt that I was being looked out for by the guests and the staff. Even when Lisa wasn’t there, I felt safe, and that is the greatest compliment I can give!

Friday, Day 7: Krka National Park to a very special lunch in Šibenik

Our final full day aboard the Croatia small ship cruise ship began as it always did.  Šimun greeted me with a smile, and I sat down to another delicious breakfast buffet with a double espresso.  But this day would be just a bit different, as the group would board a bus to Krka National Park, and then a small town in Šibenik for a very special lunch.  

And while I was looking forward to this day of new experiences, I couldn’t help but feel a bit sad that this wonderful cruise was coming to an end.  

Croatia’s Krka National Park

Krka National Park is known for its 7 magnificent waterfalls!  It was such a pleasant walk through nature. I highly recommend arriving early so you can beat the heat and the crowds. We started our time at Krka with a short walking tour before breaking off for independent time.  I never met a waterfall that didn’t stop me in my tracks, and Krka National Park is another piece of Croatia that you just need to see with your own eyes.  

After a refreshing gelato, we boarded the bus and made our way to the most authentic Croatian lunch I have ever experienced.  

An Authentic Croatian lunch on a farm

We got off the bus and entered the farm. There we were given a welcome drink of a cherry or walnut liqueur or a plum or carob brandy.  Lisa and I chose the cherry liqueur. As we sipped, a musical brother duo began to sing outside in the yard.  What a beautiful day, and what a moment!  I couldn’t stop smiling, and was just so grateful for this time in Croatia, and for this very special lunch we were about to enjoy.

Ivan told us that our lunch consisted only of food that was made or grown right there on the farm. Except for the pickles, and the bubbly water.  How amazing. As we sat down to this family lunch, the food and wine began to arrive.  Lisa and I sat next to Ivan, Kate, Chris, and Sarah.  

As we enjoyed the different homemade meats, cheeses, olives, bread, and wine, we all discussed our favorites, travel, and life back home.  We then cheersed to good health and this wonderful trip we were all on together.  

The Stories that Connect us

One of the things that I love most about travel, is getting to know people.  Because when you are in that moment together, enjoying great food and wine, and new experiences, the world slows down, and conversation flows.  Life becomes all about what we have in common. And somehow the world becomes miraculously small.  

The freshest Charcuterie 

My favorite part of the charcuterie was the cheese! It was so so fresh and delicious. And paired with the meat, olives, olive oil, bread and red wine- I was in heaven.  But wait- the best was yet to come! The brothers, Goran and Zdravko were back! And so began a joyful musical performance that had us all laughing and clapping. I myself was smiling so much my cheeks hurt!  So when the owner, Drago, invited me to get up and dance, I couldn’t say no. 

Beautiful Music and Hospitality

The lunch continued with the main event of cooked pork, salad, potatoes, and more music.  The brothers sang Croatian songs mainly from the Dalmatian Coast, but also sang a few for Ivan who is from mainland Zagreb. Then they sang a beautiful medley of old American songs.  It was perfect.  

Our day had me filled with such happiness and gratitude, and like all good things, it went by way too quickly.  Many thanks to Goran and Zdravko for such a sparkling performance, and of course to Drago and your family for your hospitality. It’s a day I will not soon forget.  

Šibenik, Croatia

That evening there was another walking tour through Šibenik, and then a group dinner aboard the ship.  We all took a group photo as well. I’d like to extend my gratitude to everyone on board for their kindness and all of the conversations that we shared.  It was such a pleasure to meet you all!  I am so happy that we were able to have these experiences together.  

After dinner,  Lisa, Ivan and I made our way into town.  Šibenik was very lively along the water, and Ivan also showed us some of his favorite places.  Šibenik as a whole did not stay up very late, but thankfully we were able to find a local spot where I chatted up the locals, (I always do!), before we enjoyed one last drink to say goodbye.  

When is the best time for a Dalmatian Coast small ship cruise?

We sailed in July, and I’ll be honest with you. Croatia is hot in July. I lived in my sun hat. The sea was perfect, the light was extraordinary, and I wouldn’t trade that week for anything. However, if your dates are flexible, here’s how the season actually breaks down.

• June is my quiet recommendation for sailing in Croatia. The sea has warmed up, the islands aren’t full yet. You can walk through Hvar at midday without needing to hide from the sun.
• July and August are peak. Hottest, busiest, priciest, and the most alive. Every port is buzzing. If school holidays decide your dates, this is still a wonderful time for a small ship cruise in Croatia. Just pack properly for the heat.
• September might be the sweetest month of all. The Adriatic holds its warmth long after the air cools down. The crowds thin out, and the towns get their evenings back.

Outside that window, most Dalmatian Coast small ship cruises simply don’t run. The season is roughly late April to late October, so if you’re dreaming about sailing the Dalmatian Coast next summer, book earlier than you think you need to.

Day 8: One last breakfast on The San Antonio

Our last breakfast! I was so sad to leave the ship and say goodbye to everyone we met on board.  Especially the Captain, Staff, and Crew of Always Croatia. We all said our goodbyes, and Lisa and I were picked up once again from our favorite driver Damir. He was taking us to Primošten, Croatia, where I would be reunited with a friend who I had met on the island of Vis a few years before. 

And as one last highlight to our already incredible time together in Croatia, Damir presented Lisa and me with a bottle of his family’s wine. Each bottle was hand-painted by his Uncle, and the wine? It was stunning. Many thanks to Damir for the conversations, the wine, and for taking the stress out of getting from place to place.

What to pack for a luxury small ship cruise in Croatia

Storage in the cabin was far better than I expected. Two sets of drawers and a closet that swallowed everything Lisa and I brought between us. But a ship is not a hotel, and seven nights of sailing Croatia asks slightly different things of your suitcase. So besides the essentials, here are our tips.

• A soft bag if you own one. It tucks away where a hard case won’t.
• Swim shoes. Croatian beaches are pebble and rock rather than sand. Swim stops are a regular event on Dalmatian Coast small ship cruises.
• A sun hat and serious sunscreen. Non-negotiable in summer. I was so glad I had both before I even boarded.
• One smart casual outfit for the group dinners. Nobody dresses up, but you’ll want something nice.
• Motion sickness remedies if you’re someone who needs them. You probably won’t, but bring them anyway.
• A refillable water bottle but check first to see if it is included with your cruise!
• A light layer for the sun deck after dark.
• Comfortable walking shoes, because the old towns are cobbled and the tours are on foot.
• A power bank. You’ll be off the ship all day taking photographs, and extra battery power is essential.
• Swimsuit Coverup: You’ll want something easy to throw on for lunch after swimming in the sea
• Jellyfish sting relief. I had a run in a few years ago that ended with a broken toe, so I speak from experience.

One last thing. Whatever you pack for a Croatia small ship cruise, leave a little room in the case. Every island has a shop worth walking into. I definitely left Croatia wishing I had space for my favorite Croatian wines!

Croatia small ship cruise FAQ

Final Thoughts: Sailing Croatia with Always Croatia

This trip to Croatia actually left me a bit speechless for a few days- if you can believe it! My heart was so full. But even then, I knew one thing for certain. After the hospitality and kindness I was shown, paired with the transcendental effect of traveling along the Adriatic Sea- I knew this was not my last time in Croatia. And as I boarded the plane to meet my parents in Italy, I smiled. Because I realized that it’s only a matter of time before I experience that feeling once again. Of all the ways to see this country, a Dalmatian Coast small ship cruise is the one experience I will dream about until I find myself back on board.

Many thanks to Christy, Ivan, Šimun, Luka, Duje, Ivan, Marina, Nikol, Brane and Iva for your hospitality, kindness, and fun loving spirit. Lisa and I absolutely loved being aboard the San Antonio and witnessing you all be masters of your craft.  Thank you for showing us how magical it truly is to sail on the Adriatic Sea. 

Read more of our Croatia articles:

• Where to Eat – my favorite restaurants in Komiza
• Vis Island: A Heavenly Destination + everything you should know
• Vislander Winery on Vis Island