Small Ship Cruises in Croatia – Everything You Need to Know Before You Book!

Croatia’s small ship cruises are incredibly popular. And with all the beautiful Croatian islands to explore, that is really no surprise.

I recently joined a small ship cruise in Croatia and quickly learned that there are different types of small ship cruises for different types of people. And, that these cruises aren’t suitable for everyone.

If you’ve already done some research about cruising in Croatia you’ve probably noticed that there are tons of different websites offering cruises and that there are even more different boats to choose from.

So, what I want to achieve with this article is to help you find the type of cruise in Croatia that best suits your needs.

I’ll share the advantages of going on a small ship cruise in Croatia, the different types of boats and trips you can choose from, and some other information I think will be useful to help you figure out what type of cruising in Croatia is right for you.

Cruises in Croatia – Everything You Need to Know

What is a Small Ship Cruise in Croatia?

A small ship cruise in Croatia is a popular way to explore the Adriatic coastline aboard an intimate vessel designed for a personalized experience.

Unlike large cruise ships, small ship cruises accommodate a limited number of passengers, generally between 20 to 40, creating a cozy and relaxed atmosphere.

One of the key advantages of a small ship cruise is the ability to visit smaller ports that larger vessels can’t access. Croatia boasts a wealth of picturesque islands, charming fishing villages, and historic towns, and on a small ship cruise, you’ll be able to dock in these popular places.

Imagine exploring the birthplace of Marco Polo on Korcula Island or wandering through the narrow streets of Hvar Town, all just a short distance from your floating home.

Onboard, the level of luxury (think en-suite bathrooms, private or shared rooms, comfortable sun loungers, etc) depends on the type of small ship cruise you choose, which I’ll discuss later.

But there will always be a nice sun deck to take in the panoramic views of the shimmering sea and idyllic islands. The ships serve delicious regional cuisine, have a bar open all day, and several even have a jacuzzi on deck.

It’s a unique form of accommodation where you can unwind after a day of adventure.

Generally each day you visit a different location and stop at a beautiful swim stop, weather permitting, along the way.

Why Go on a Small Ship Cruise in Croatia?

There are several reasons why people choose a small ship cruise.

1. It’s a Comfortable Way to See Different Destinations 

Croatia’s islands, coastal towns, and stunning beaches are some of the country’s highlights and most popular places to visit.

A small ship cruise will take you to a new destination every day, all of which are among those popular destinations.

And this makes cruising in Croatia a great way to get a glimpse of the country’s highlights in a short amount of time.

Also Read: The Best Places to Visit in Croatia

2. It’s a Unique Experience

Exploring a country on board a luxury yacht is quite a unique experience!

Being taken to a new island while you enjoy a freshly cooked lunch or are relaxing on deck staring out at the incredibly blue Adriatic sea… Do I really need to say more?

3. No Travel Planning, Just Relax & Enjoy

As much as I enjoy planning trips, it can get stressful and time-consuming, especially if you want to see many different places.

Deciding where to go, finding hotels, figuring out how to get to all the different places, and researching what the best things to do are, takes a lot of time!

On a typical small ship cruise in Croatia, which is 8 days and 7 nights, you’ll visit 7 different destinations. Can you imagine the stress of having to book transportation, hotels, activities, etc. in all these destinations?

For a stress-free vacation that allows you to see different places, a small ship cruise is perfect!

Everything is organized for you, yet you have enough freedom to fill in your days the way you want.

Every day the ship will take you to a different swim stop, weather permitting, and then dock at a different destination.

The guide on board might take you for a tour of the destination, offer some shore excursions (more on that later), or you can simply step off the boat and enjoy this new destination until the boat sets off again the next morning.

Also Read: The Advantages of Organized Tours & Group Travel

4. It’s Great for Solo Travelers Because You Easily Connect With Others

If you love meeting other travelers, these Croatia cruises are great.

Especially the small ship cruises that target a younger audience (more about the different types of cruises later) are incredibly sociable.

With many shared activities offered every day ranging from hikes to wine tastings and nights out in popular clubs, it’s incredibly easy to make friends with your fellow cruisers.

This makes cruises a popular choice for solo travelers.

But of course also if you’re not traveling alone, it’s just a great way to meet other travelers and make friends for life.

And, an added benefit for solo travelers is that on most of the small ship cruises you can book a shared cabin. This both saves money and helps you connect with another traveler.

Also Read: Planning a Solo Trip – Practical Tips for Traveling Alone

5. It’s a Good Deal

When you check prices for cruises in Croatia it may at first sound expensive.

But once you start calculating what you’d otherwise spend on hotels in prime locations, a buffet breakfast and a 3-course lunch every day, ferries to islands, a knowledgeable guide, etc. it turns into quite a good deal for a trip that’s fully taken care of!

Also Read: How to Save Money When Traveling

The Best Time of Year to Go on a Cruise in Croatia

Several of the small ship cruises in Croatia are only offered between June to September, which is when the weather is best and when most people visit Croatia.

If you ask me though, the best time to go on a cruise in Croatia is during the shoulder seasons of late spring (May to June) and autumn (September to October). These months offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and a more relaxed atmosphere.

In spring, Croatia begins to awaken from its winter slumber. Temperatures gradually rise and nature comes to life. You can expect milder temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit (15-23 degrees Celsius), making it perfect for exploring the coastal towns, islands, and national parks without the summer heat.

Autumn is equally nice, with comfortable temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to mid-70s Fahrenheit (15-24 degrees Celsius). The summer crowds have dispersed, allowing for a more serene cruising experience. And the sea, which can be chilly in spring, is perfect for swimming and water sports in early autumn.

Croatia’s summer months (July and August) are peak tourist season due to the warm weather, school holidays, and numerous festivals. While summer offers great opportunities for swimming and beach activities, it can be crowded and prices tend to be higher.

I would only recommend traveling to Croatia in July and August if you’re tied to school holidays.

Different Types of Cruises in Croatia

What I didn’t realize when I first started researching cruising in Croatia is that not only are there different types of boats (different sizes, levels of comfort, etc), but that it’s also important to choose a cruise that caters to a demographic that fits you.

So, before you book your Croatia cruise based solely on the looks of the boat and offered itinerary, consider who the different cruises cater to.

1. The Croatia Party Cruise

Croatia actually has quite a reputation for its party cruises.

Especially among young Australians, it seems almost like a right of passage to come to Europe and go on a party cruise in Croatia.

Two of the most famous companies offering party cruises in Croatia are Contiki and Topdeck.

I’d say they are most suitable for people aged 18 to 25.

It’s a great way to meet other young travelers and have lively nights out in different ports. The tour guides on these ships are normally great at getting the party started and taking you to the best bars and clubs.

Themed parties are often organized (pirate night is a popular one) and it’s generally just a very fun, lively boat trip.

Of course you’ll also have great daytime activities including swim stops, sightseeing, checking out beaches and beach bars, etc.

A lot of the wooden boats you see in Croatia are used for this type of cruise. They are less luxurious than the other small ship cruises but also less expensive. These boats are a bit smaller as well, accommodating about 18 to 25 people, and cabins will have two bunk beds instead of twin or double beds.

You can check Contiki’s cruises here, and Topdeck’s cruises here.

2 The Young Professionals’ Cruise

Fjaka Sail is one of the cruise organizers who noticed an “in-between group” for whom a suitable cruise in Croatia was hard to find.

Fjakasail: 

”We realized that there are lots of small ship cruises for young people that tend to draw gap year students, and lots of cruises for older adults, but not many for the in-between age where you still like to have fun and go out but not quite on the teenager level. That’s where we come in.

We offer affordable luxury Croatia sailing tours for the slightly older demographic of young people – who prefer a nice cocktail over a crowded bar, plenty of culture and adventure to balance the party, and a nice, comfortable boat (with a rooftop jacuzzi).”

Unfortunately Fjakasail doesn’t run anymore, but Koda Sail offers similar cruises. I’d say Koda Sail is most suitable for people aged 25 to 35.

Age is just a number of course, so it mainly depends on what type of experience you are looking for.

Koda Sail tends to combine partying with sightseeing.

There is definitely still quite a focus on enjoying nights out. And I have to admit I’ve been to more clubs during my one-week sailing in Croatia with than I’d been to in several years.

But, there is less partying going on on the boat and there is plenty of space and flexibility to do your own thing, enjoy sightseeing, a quiet dinner ashore, etc.

Go to my highlighted stories on Instagram for a day-to-day overview of my experience on a small ship cruise in Croatia.

You can check prices and dates for Koda Sail’s cruises here.

3. The High-End Luxury Cruise

If you’re looking for a luxury cruise, there are definitely some great small ship cruises in Croatia for you.

Kompas is one of the best-known operators here with beautiful luxury boats.

They say their age range is 8 to 85. This attracts a more diverse crowd, and has more of a focus on culture, sightseeing, and unwinding than the previous two options.

But, a general tip to keep in mind when looking for cruises in Croatia: the more expensive and more comfortable the ship is, the older the demographic. Therefore Kompas attracts an older demographic.

Kompas also offers more diverse itineraries. While many other small ship cruises stick to the Split to Dubrovnik routes, visiting islands and towns in between, Kompas also offers tours to different places such as Plitvice and Zagreb.

Their tours tend to pack in a lot of sights so you get to see a lot, but also move between destinations quickly.

Their boats are very luxurious with beautiful rooms, comfortable lounge and dining areas, delicious food, and often a small pool or jacuzzi.

You can check Kompas’ cruises here.

Another good luxury cruise option is the Katarina Deluxe Superior.

4. Cruises for All Ages & Families

There are no specific small ship cruises in Croatia that cater solely to families. Nor are there cruises that focus exclusively on the 35+ working professionals demographic.

So if you are traveling as a family or feel like the previously mentioned younger boats or high-end luxury boats are not what you are looking for, then you fall into the mixed category.

On the Go Tours is a popular choice for families and couples looking for a cruise in Croatia. They offer different routes and different classes of boats.

Liveaboard.com is also a good website to find small-ship cruises that cater to a more mixed audience. Although that website was created for liveaboard diving in other parts of the world, in Croatia it actually has a great overview of small ship cruises.

And again the general rule applies: the more expensive and more comfortable the ship is, the older the demographic.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly small ship cruise that caters to a more mixed crowd (not a party boat) check out Katarina Line’s Traditional Ship.

Additionally, this small ship cruise from Intrepid Travel is a good option for a more mixed audience, and it includes a visit to beautiful Mostar, in Bosnia & Herzegovina, which I highly recommend.

Also Read: Things to Know About Going on a Disney Cruise

5. A Sailing Cruise

Having recently returned from almost 2 years of sailing in the Caribbean I might be biased, but I’d say there is something special about cruising on a sailboat versus a large motorboat.

Ok, less comfort as well, but if you’re interested in sailing, then choosing a Croatia cruise on a sailboat versus a motorboat might be worth it.

If you’re young and are looking for a party on a sailing cruise in Croatia you have probably heard of Sail Week and Yacht Week. It’s basically a group of sailboats sailing to a different destination every day, with lots of partying going on.

Medsailors is a similar option but tends to be slightly cheaper and slightly less party, although they definitely still cater to a younger audience with plenty of fun and nightlife.

If you’re past that stage in life, there are several luxury sailboats you can join to cruise Croatia.

Intrepid Travel has sailing yachts between 48 and 52 feet, offering sailing tour sfrom Dubrovnik to Split.

G Adventures has a beautiful 54-foot sailing yacht that offers both tours within Croatia and from Croatia to Italy (and vice versa).

And if you love yoga, check out this sailing cruise combined with daily yoga and meditation.

6. Cruising and Cycling

If you’d love to combine cruising in Croatia with cycling, check out UTrecks.

UTrecks is a well-known outdoor adventure company. In Croatia they offer several bike & boat tours that combine daily cycling routes with a cruise. They cater to all ages, including families with kids.

7. The Large International Cruise

Most people who want to go cruising in Croatia choose a small ship cruise.

Small ship cruises can dock in the smaller ports therefore allowing you to visit different coastal towns and islands in Croatia. The large cruise ships can’t access all the ports the smaller boats can, so you’ll miss out on some of the smaller ports.

But, larger cruise ships can cover larger distances.

If you want to visit several countries on one cruise, or if you’d like to have more facilities onboard the cruise, then a larger cruise can be a great choice for you.

Cruisedirect offers various larger cruises that include Croatia.

8. A Private Cruise

Many of the small ships in Croatia can be booked as a private cruise. But of course, that means you either have to get a group of 20 or more people together, or be willing to fork out quite a bit of money to book the entire cruise.

A more common option is to charter a smaller motor yacht or sailboat. These can be rented with a captain, or without if you have the credentials to sail yourself.

This way of cruising in Croatia gives you the most freedom, and a better opportunity to see more off-the-beaten-path places.

Chartering a yacht is a popular choice for families but also great for a group of friends.

I’ve even seen posts in sailing groups and travel related groups on Facebook asking for people to charter a yacht together.

Apart from having the freedom to choose where to sail to, one of the biggest advantages of chartering a yacht is that you are free to choose how long you sail. I’d say four nights can give you a good taste of the Croatian islands.

But I could spend months sailing around Croatia with all of its beautiful islands and coastal towns. Yes, an extended sailing trip is still on my bucket list!

Another advantage is that reservations for more authentic experiences become a lot easier. On my recent small ship cruise we were a group of 25. That limited us to larger restaurants which often catered largely to tourists.

Chartering is also a good way to learn more about sailing from your captain, if that’s something you want.

But, there are downsides to chartering a smaller yacht as well.

Smaller boats are more limited by the weather. High waves and strong winds will at some point affect any boat, but a small yacht is affected quicker. This means you might not be able to get to a planned destination or you might be in for a bumpy ride.

And if you’re prone to seasickness, you’ll be a lot more likely to get seasick on a small private yacht than on any of the cruises.

To check prices and different yacht options for private charters, use Click & Boat. 

Also Read: Sailing in Greece – Things to Know Before You Go

Where Will You Go on Your Small Ship Cruise in Croatia?

This is honestly where I was a little disappointed with the standard small ship cruises.

I know I’m not your standard traveler (I lived on a small boat, so I have a lot of experience exploring places by boat), but I really assumed that by being on a small ship cruise we would visit more off-the-beaten-path destinations.

That’s not the case.

Most Croatian small ship cruises sail between Split and Dubrovnik, in the south of Croatia. These cruises tend to visit Central and Southern Dalmatian islands such as Vis, Hvar, Brac, Korcula, and Mljet.

These are some of the most popular tourist destinations in Croatia, receiving a lot of visitors, who come here either on a cruise or by ferry. Especially in July and August these destinations get very crowded and have, in my opinion, lost a bit of their authenticity.

That being said, they offer great tourist facilities ranging from restaurants to shops, water sports activities, daily tours, nightclubs, etc.

Because most small ship cruises stick to the same destinations you’re likely to run into the same boats in different ports.

I would say, if you want to visit off-the-beaten-path destinations, you’re better off booking a private cruise.

But if you want to see the main tourist destinations with a group of like-minded travelers, then the small ship cruises are a great option.

What Does a Typical Day on a Small Ship Cruise Look Like?

Of course this depends a bit on which of the different types of small ship Croatian cruises you book, but generally the small ship cruises are 8 days and 7 nights.

After boarding the ship on the first morning you’ll immediately set sail to your first destination while being served lunch onboard.

From then on, every day follows a similar pattern. Before breakfast is served the boat has generally already set sail to its next destination. So you get to enjoy breakfast while sailing past a beautiful island or a bit of coastline.

If the weather allows it the ship will anchor in a nice sheltered spot so that everyone can jump into the water and enjoy a swim.

After the swim stop the boat will sail to its next port while you get to enjoy a 3-course lunch.

This is generally also when the tour guide provides some information about the next port, the walking tour he or she may offer there, and all the other activities that can be enjoyed.

Once docked the rest of the day and night are spent at this new destination. Depending on the type of small ship cruise you are on you might join an excursion, go to the beach, join a communal dinner at a local restaurant, or get ready for a big night out.

Dinners are generally ashore, although on some nights dinner aboard the boat may be offered, such as a welcome dinner or a captain’s dinner.

Shore Excursions on a Cruise in Croatia

Most small ship cruises offer optional shore excursions at various ports.

These excursions allow you to explore the local attractions, historical sites, and natural beauty of Croatia.

From wine tasting to zip lining, hiking, etc.

I recommend reviewing the available shore excursions beforehand. And if nothing is offered by the ship in a specific port then you could do some research yourself to see what activities you could do at that destination.

For example, some destinations offer great water sports while other destinations are perfect for renting a bicycle to explore the area. Bigger towns offer walking tours or food experiences. But some of these activities are best booked slightly in advance (even if it’s just 1 day).

Final Thoughts About Cruising in Croatia

Croatia is known for its stunning islands and coastal towns. And with so many islands to explore it makes complete sense that cruising in Croatia is incredibly popular.

A small ship cruise offers a relaxed vacation and an easy way to get a glimpse of different parts of Croatia.

Small ships do tend to visit mainly the same (touristy) locations which makes the ports crowded, especially in July and August, and the towns feel a little less authentic.

If you want a more off-the-beaten-path experience, charter a yacht. But if you want a carefree, fun-filled trip with lots of beautiful swim stops, go on a small ship cruise!

A Few Final Tips When Going on a Small Ship Cruise in Croatia

• Choose a cabin above deck if your budget allows it. The cabins below deck are cheaper, but they generally have no windows that can be opened which makes them a bit stuffy. And of course the cabins above deck have a much nicer view.

• Know that cruises are always weather dependent. Itineraries may change because of the weather. Swim stops might have to be skipped because the sea is too rough, and you could even end up going to a different port than planned for various reasons.
  From my experience though, every captain and crew will do whatever they can to give you the best possible experience!
   
• Make sure you have travel insurance. Of course, we always hope nothing goes wrong when we travel but well, sometimes things happen. If you don’t have suitable travel insurance yet I recommend reading this article about what to look for in travel insurance.
   
• There will be wifi but you’re on a boat and often in more remote locations, so don’t expect too much. During my recent cruise wifi was often slow or barely working.
  If you really need internet, bring a sim card with enough data. That won’t work perfectly in remote locations either, but I found it to be better than the boat’s wifi.
   
• Bring sea sickness medication. Although generally the bigger the boat the less likely you are to feel seasick, I’ve seen several people get seasick on larger cruises.
  I recommend Dramamine. And don’t wait until you are feeling seasick. If you are likely to get seasick, or know the weather will get rougher, take it as early as possible to prevent seasickness.

Special thanks to Andre and Kimmie, who invited me to join their cruise in Croatia!

Also Read:

• Why You Should Go on a Cruise at Least Once in Your Life
• Where to Go in Croatia
• How to Find the Cheapest Flights
• A Perfect Montenegro Road Trip – Croatia is a perfect starting point for this
• Why Visit Montenegro? A Guide to Where to Go in Montenegro & What to Do

 
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