We sail to the following islands on this Croatian Island Cruise, the length of stay and how much we cover is up to you..
Brac Island
Brac is the largest island of the central Dalmatian group separated from the mainland by the Brac Channel.
Brac is particularly famous for its olive oil, lamb, sheep cheese and mandarins.
Inland you’ll find the highest peak of all the Croatian Islands, Vidova Gora (Vitus’ Mount) at 778m and a landscape composed mainly of limestone and dolomite providing the decorative stonework, Brac’s most famous export.
We take you here for the wonderful coves and beaches which are scattered along the coastline, including Zlatni Rat which is reportedly the most photographed beach in Croatia.
Hvar ‘The Island of Lavender’
Stari Grad is the second-largest settlement on Hvar and is steeped in history.
The pedestrian-only centre is full of cobblestone paths, squares and churches with the St Stephens Bell Tower being a notable landmark.
While weaving through the narrow alleyways be sure to look out for the plaques identifying specific historical buildings ( a handy guide is available in the Tourist Information Office).
On foot follow the forest paths northwest to the Kabal Peninsula to discover secluded coves and beaches for bathing (but note you may come across the nudest beach on your search!).
Alternatively, hire a bike to venture out to the Stari Grad Plain ( bike routes are available from the Tourist Information Centre in the marina). Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2008 the Stari Grad Plain is one of the top tourist attractions in Hvar.
Hvar Town is another destination we can visit on Hvar Island.
Spend an afternoon soaking up the historical and cultural monuments in Hvar Town. Highlights include the Hvar Cathedral, overlooking the main square; the walled 15-century Franciscan Monastery which houses a small museum, and the 16th century castle which boasts the most magnificent panoramic views over the harbour.
If the harbour at Hvar Town is full we will sail round the corner to nearby Palmizana Bay. This is a short water taxi ride from Hvar Town and the docking fees are cheaper too.
Korcula and Viganj
Named Black Korcula by the Greeks due to its dense forest, Marco Polo was said to be born on this island and the stunning Old Town houses a small museum dedicated to his life and travels.
The locals call Korcula Town ‘little Dubrovnik’ due to its impressive medieval squares, cobblestone streets and churches.
The view from the Bell Tower is worth the climb.
Around the corner on Korcula is one of our favourite sandy beaches and there is the option to spend the day relaxing on the beach
or
Across the water is our favourite watersport destination, Viganj.
Your skipper is a qualified Kitesurf instructor and available to provide private instructions ( at extra cost to the excursion) and Viganj is one of the best spots to learn this sport.
Or why not try your hand at Wind Surfing?
Kitesurfing and Windsurfing Taster sessions can be organised here, just let your skipper know so we can book ahead of time.
This area really is a watersport enthusiasts paradise and we can spend as long as you like here playing in the sea.
Vis
The entrance to Vis Town is much like entering a film set (indeed much of Mama Mia 2 was filmed on this island.
It takes about twenty minutes to walk around the harbour to Kut, the prettiest part.
Known as ‘The Forbidden Island’ as the Yugoslav army kept Vis at bay from tourists in the 60’s, and it is worth taking a guided tour around the island to visit the tunnels, nuclear shelters and fantastic vantage points.
Hiring a scooter or bike is also worth doing to be able to discover the true beauty here.
On the western side of the island we can sail to Komiza, which is set at the foot of a spectacular mountain range and the backdrop against the terracotta rooftops and across the quaint harbour, make for some impressive photo opportunities.
From here many tour operators offer excursions to Biseva Island, which are generally 1 – 2 hours long.
Biseva Island
A visit to Cave Biseva is a trip highlight.
A stunning blue grotto where shafts of sunlight meet white sand on the seafloor, causing pools of iridescent blue light.
Solta Island
Pronounced sholta, at only 19kn long, and 5kn wide is a hilly island with steep shores and many sheltered coves.
This island has deep bays and steep hills, and is a popular stop off for most island tours.
Famous for its olive oil, honey and becoming a popular second-home holiday spot in Roman times, this island is the closest to Split and provides a welcome snack break on the homeward journey.