Dubrovnik to Split: 8 days cruising fortresses and archipelagos in southern Croatia

DAY 1
CHILLING OUT IN CAVTAT

Chill out in Cavtat after arriving in Dubrovnik airport. Perhaps take a dive with Epidaurum and discover some of the many Greek and Roman relics that tell Croatia’s story. Treat yourself to a night in Hotel Croatia’s Presidential suite, and from the large terrace, admire spectacular views of the Adriatic and Dubrovnik’s city walls. Sip cocktails in the piano bar and dine casually or in style at the hotel or try the fresh lobster at Leut in the centre of Cavtat.

Cavtat | photo by Graham Lawrence/robertharding.com

DAY 2
CRUISE TO DUBROVNIK

Greet the day with coffee and pastries on the hotel terrace. Join your yacht and sail towards Dubrovnik, perhaps stopping for a swim near Lokrum island. You can anchor northeast of the island for great views of Dubrovnik city by night, or moor in the busy port of Gruz, or head up the river Dubravka and moor at the pier of Dubrovnik ACI Marina to enjoy the charm of this lovely old building and gardens. Walk Dubrovnik’s city walls, take in all the stories they have to tell, and then relax and admire more views over a sumptuous meal at Atlas Club Nautika, considered by some to be amongst the world’s most romantic restaurants.

Dubrovnik | robertharding.com

DAY 3
MLJET

Sample the local specialities for breakfast. Dried ham (prsut), maybe salted sardines, or a heartier Burek – a pastry filled with meat, cheese or vegetables, the meat version resembling a flakier Cornish pastry. Enjoy a leisurely cruise around the Elaphite islands on your way to Luka Polace on Mljet island, one of the best anchorages in the area and close to the saltwater lakes. Take an afternoon swim in the lakes and enjoy a sunset dinner in Melitta on the tiny island in the centre of the biggest lake. Enjoy your liqueur on board under the stars and in tune with nature. Perhaps you’re brave enough to try a sip of the Croatian brandies – orahovac (walnut) or maraschino (cherry)? Or, try the less potent Prosec, Croatia’s delicious dessert wine.

Mljet island | robertharding.com

DAY 4
LASTOVO

Take the short trip north-west for the delights of Korcula town. Anchor south of Badija islet or moor at the ACI marina, keeping an eye out for winds in the Pelesac Canal. Soak in the atmosphere of this astoundingly beautiful medieval city and explore its cobbled streets and alleyways. After a few hours in this ancient metropolis, head to the peace and tranquillity of luscious Lastovo island. Anchor in one of the two bays on either side of the bridge joining Lastovo to the island of Prezba, and take advantage of the hospitality of the Hotel Ladesta in Pasadur. Perhaps take a trip in the dinghy around the tiny islets or arrange a dive with the hotel. To round off your evening, dine casually at the hotel or at rustic Konoba Frenki by the bridge.

The medieval metropolis of Korcula

DAY 5
VIS

Sail to Vis town, looking out for dolphins. As you get closer you’ll see the canons on the top of the hill, a reminder of Vis’s wartime importance. Anchor in the deep, protected bay and take in the magnificent spectacle of the mountains, fortresses and the stately buildings. Hire a car and drive around the island, exploring the wine cellars and historical monuments, or take a trip to Tito’s wartime cave headquarters. Return to Vis town, stroll around and discover the Roman baths, or watch the world go by over a drink outside Hotel Tamaris. Finish off your evening in Kut, dining on Vila Kaliopa’s delightful terrace.

Vis town on Vis island | robertharding.com

DAY 6
SV KLEMENT, PAKLENI ISLANDS

Drive to Komiza in the morning and explore this lovely fishing village. Then take a local boat to Bisevo islet to see the spectacular blue cave at its best just before noon when the sun is shining. Enjoy the freshest of lobsters or octopus at Konoba Bako and admire the collection of ancient relics that owner Tonko Borcic has recovered from his 30 years of diving in the area. Return to Vis town and your yacht and set sail for the Pakleni islands and Hvar. Tonight you’ll have your own paradise island, so drop anchor in Uvala Tarsce or Luka Soline on the south coast of Sv Klement, and take the dinghy to Pansion Meneghello for an unforgettable evening meal in the midst of an established Mediterranean Botanical Garden.

Diving in Bisevo | photolibrary.com

DAY 7
HVAR

After a blissful night’s sleep and a glorious sunrise, today is party day. Head for Hvar town and moor in the bay amidst the bustle and charms of this historic city. Make your reservation at Carpe Diem and spend the rest of the day exploring. Perhaps enjoy the magnificent spa facilities of Suncani Hvar before you get ready for a night on the town, or call Hotel Amfora and they’ll come and pick you up so you can chill out on the private beach. Dine at Yaksa and then enjoy the best of what’s hot and happening into the small hours at Carpe Diem.

Hvar boat harbour

DAY 8
SPLIT

Soothe your spirits on deck as you head to Split by admiring the villages on the island of Solta. Disembark at Split and take the time to wander around Diocletian’s Palace and lunch at Restaurant Bruna before taking your plane back to reality.

Republic Square, Split | robertharding.com

Charter Guide Croatia charter guide With spectacular and diverse scenery, clear azure waters and a rich tapestry of history, culture and architecture, Croatia has all the elements of a premier cruising destination

Feature Favourite superyacht anchorages in Croatia A long, intricate coastline and 1,000-plus islands mean Croatia is not short of anchorages, but these in particular come recommended by owners and captains in the know

Fact file Croatia fact file Everything you need to know for that cruise around the magnificent coast and islands of Croatia, from what permits you need to where to spot dolphins and the best place to find the perfect truffle