From its top to bottom, the stunning Adriatic Coast offers some of the finest coastal scenery in the world and its collection of beautiful bays, hidden inlets and a myriad of islands both large and small make it one of the most appealing areas for small ship cruising. If you are to do justice to this enchanting corner of Europe, we believe that exploring by small ship is a must and with the 50-passenger MS Monet we are able to offer a wonderfully interesting itinerary as her size enables us to call into some less developed places and once moored, going ashore is quick and easy.
Our voyage from Dubrovnik to Venice is a heady mix of islands and ports representing a fascinating itinerary combining as it does some ‘must see’ sites together with little known and rarely visited places that are perfectly suited for our vessel. Following our overnight mooring and time spent discovering Dubrovnik, our calls along the Adriatic coast will include the delightful islands of Korcula and Brac, the World Heritage Site of Split with the ancient laneways of Diocletian’s Palace, the dramatic waterfalls of Krka and charming Mali Losinj in the northern Kvarner Gulf. From Koper in Slovenia we will visit the picturesque Medieval town of Piran before arriving in Venice. In addition to some daytime cruising which allows us to enjoy the magnificent views, our central moorings afford the opportunity to take a stroll after dinner in some marvellous places that are particularly atmospheric in the evening.
Whether it be the scenic waterways and indentations or the wealth of historic buildings, this unique area has so much to offer the genuine traveller and our itinerary will be appreciated by those who enjoy an eclectic mix of places and an informal style of cruising.
- Historic Wonders of Dubrovnik: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Dubrovnik, known for its breathtaking beauty and rich history. Visit the Rector’s Palace, Dominican and Franciscan Monasteries, and more. You'll have free time in the afternoon to stroll the city walls or take a cable car ride for panoramic views.
- Korcula - Marco Polo's Birthplace: Discover the charming island of Korcula, renowned as the birthplace of the famous explorer Marco Polo. Explore its Medieval streets and visit a local winery for a wine tasting experience.
- Krka National Park's Waterfalls: Marvel at the natural wonders of Krka National Park, where you'll explore the stunning waterfalls and lush landscapes via wooden walkways. It's a unique experience immersed in the tranquility of nature.
- Cultural Gems of Rovinj and Pula: Enjoy a guided walking tour of Rovinj's atmospheric old town with its picturesque houses. Then, visit Pula to discover one of the world's best-preserved Roman amphitheaters, the Arena, followed by a leisurely exploration of Rovinj.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to the MS Monet and embark. Enjoy welcome drinks and dinner as we moor overnight.
Dubrovnik is a breathtaking sight and its many historic and cultural treasures have earned it the designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded by the Romans in the 7th century, it eventually came under the influence of the Byzantine Empire, then Venice, Hungary and finally Turkey. This morning our local guides will lead us through the bustling old town taking in the beautiful civic buildings, the Rector’s Palace, the Romanesque-Gothic Dominican and Franciscan Monasteries and the Sponza Palace. This afternoon is free to relax on board or to explore independently. Maybe take a walk on the city walls or ride the cable car up Mount Srd for the wonderful views over the city.
Spend the day on the island of Korcula, the reputed birthplace of the explorer Marco Polo. A morning guided tour will include a walk along Korcula’s crooked Medieval streets revealing elegant squares flanked with palaces of the old nobility. After lunch on board we drive to the interior of the island, past olive groves and vineyards offering views down to the coast below. On our visit to a winery, we will learn more about the mainly white wines, which have been cultivated on the island for centuries, before enjoying a tasting.
Awake on the island of Brac and the attractive port of Pucisca located at the end of a long bay. Brac is world renowned for the quality of its stone which was used for the Diocletian’s Palace in Split as well as the White House in Washington and other parliament buildings in Europe. Spend the morning in the charming small town, voted one of the prettiest in Europe, where the buildings’ white roofs create an ambient atmosphere. Over lunch we sail the short distance to Split where a guided walk includes the Diocletian’s Palace, built by the emperor in 295-305 AD as his retirement villa. Much of this large building is well preserved and the palace contains Split’s old town within its walls, making it the only Roman palace that has been continuously inhabited since Roman times. It is a wonderful spot to wander the maze of streets. We sail late tonight for anyone wishing to take an after dinner stroll.
From our berth in Sibenik we visit the majestic waterfalls of Krka. Take a morning guided walk on wooden walkways and across bridges through this unique fjord-like landscape with its multiple waterfalls and interesting flora and fauna. This afternoon we will have some free time to explore the historic town including the Cathedral of St James, the old city walls and the theatre before we sail this evening.
We will spend the morning at sea arriving in the early afternoon at Mali Losinj which sits at the foot of a protected harbour on the southeast coast of Losinj Island. It is the island’s mild climate and rich flora that give Mali Losinj its reputation as one of the most fragrant islands in Croatia; its air is scented with lavender, sage and rosemary. The seafront of the old town is lined with a string of imposing 19th century houses and villas and is a pleasant place to wander. Sail late tonight.
Our last day in Croatia will be based at the atmospheric town of Rovinj where the houses inside the old town are small and lean into each other creating a unique atmosphere. We leave the town this morning and drive to the tip of the Istrian Peninsula and the former Roman settlement of Polensium, now known as Pula. Here we will discover one of the best preserved Roman amphitheatres left in the world. The Arena, built in the 1st century AD was designed to host gladiatorial contests with seating for up to 20,000 spectators. After lunch either relax on board or explore Rovinj. Our guided walking tour will include the Franciscan Monastery, City Palace and the 17th century clock tower before we visit the town’s main landmark, St Euphemia Church, which is built on the top of a small hill. This Baroque building built in Venetian style was dedicated to the saint and martyr whose sarcophagus, according to a legend, was miraculously washed ashore somewhere around 800 AD.
From our berth in Koper we drive to Piran, one of the most photogenic cities in the Mediterranean. Influenced by the Venetian Republic, which left its mark on most Istrian towns, Piran has maintained the clustered Medieval structure of narrow winding streets, houses huddled close together and numerous squares and churches. Tartini Square is the gem found in the very centre of the city and is named after the violinist and composer Giuseppe Tartini. After lunch on board, enjoy some time at leisure in Koper. Maybe visit Tito Square, the impressive Praetorian Palace or the 11th century cathedral.
Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for our return scheduled flight to London.
Itineraries are subject to change.
Monet
She has ample seating space for moments of relaxation, a mini-library with a variety of books and magazines and modern A/V equipment for presentations. Keep in shape during your cruise at the gym, featuring a variety of fitness equipment. The glass-enclosed dining room seats up to 60 passengers and allows for panoramic views of the stunning scenery you will cruise along. The bar and lounge with an open deck in the back offer an ideal spot for reading,relaxing, or dancing under the stars to the sounds of mesmerizing music.
At 223 ft/68 m long, the Monet can accommodate up to 60 guests in 30 double bedded or twin cabins, located on the Camille, Parisian, and Lumiere Decks. Cabins on the Camille and Parisian Decks feature two oversized portholes, while cabins on the Lumiere Deck have large windows. All cabins offer central A/C and ventilation, a mini-bar, flat screen satellite TV, phone system, and hairdryer. The Monet is also equipped with a Wi-Fi internet connection (free of charge). The latest state of the art safety equipment is installed on board and maintained by all 29 trained crew members. The ratio of guest passenger to crew members allows for an exquisite service experience.
RestaurantThe restaurant is filled with elegance and the whimsy of fun and bright colors. Sumptuous dining options are provided to entice the palate and compliment the ports of call. Enjoy conversing with fellow guests about adventures had and ahead or spend quality time with your travel partners and discuss the amazing wine. The panoramic views will stun you.
LoungeThe décor is tastefully stated to not over power the elegance of our guests. It is adorned with golds and neutrals. You will shine here. Providing aptly oversized seating to enjoy libations and gathering together with travel companions and new friends. Come here to relax and chat about a perfect end to a day that was filled with incredible sights, sea air and culinary delights.
Deluxe Double Cabin This beautifully appointed accommodation will allow the traveler the opportunity to slumber and wake rejuvenated. Enjoy resting on a double bed, a comfortable desk/vanity, a flat screen satellite TV and a private well-appointed bathroom. The décor is warm and inviting with nostalgic art inspired by M/S Monet’s history in mind. These were specially chosen to provide the utmost relaxing environment. Sleep and relaxation are invited into this space after soaking up the beauty, culture and Adriatic air.
Deluxe Twin Cabin This delightfully appointed cabin allows travelers to sleep and have quiet time that salt air and sea travel induces. Rest peacefully on twin ample mattresses, a comfortable desk/vanity, a flat screen satellite TV and a private well-appointed bathroom. The décor is bright and cheery with pleasant tones. You will dream well here and be rested for yet more adventures and epicurean travels.
Open Deck The deck is designed with pure enjoyment and service in mind. It is a bright and warm environment. You will find the classic detail of teak furniture to be the ideal seating area for reading, relaxing, dining or enjoying fine wine. The bar and lounge of the Open Deck permit the coast to be in sight as you dance and enjoy the company of fellow travelers. The seas reflect and shimmer as you partake in a true experience of traveling on a classic yacht.
Sun Deck Relax on the Sun Deck and soak up the sun of the Adriatic Sea with outstanding and uncompromised views. The nautical experience of the open air accomplishes relaxation, tranquility and the true ambience of the coast.
