The Balkans has always had an allure for the genuine traveller and despite its often turbulent past, cultural and natural wonders abound in the region. At the crossroads of east and west and with a history forged over the centuries and influenced by so many, there are a wealth of fascinating cultural sites and natural world marvels to discover and with the MS Monet as our base we will visit five of the Balkan states. Regular travellers to this part of the world will know that autumn is a lovely time to explore the region with the absence of the summer crowds and weather that is ideal for touring.
During our voyage from Venice to Dubrovnik we will explore charming Medieval towns, visit the bustling cities of Piran, Zadar and Tirana and whilst sailing between our destinations will witness some of the most beautiful scenery Europe has to offer with mountains that sweep down to the intense blue sea and islands that lace the coast. Historic wonders abound from UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the historic city of Mostar in Bosnia-Herzegovina and Kotor, Montenegro’s 14th century walled fortress town fronted by a sublime bay to the remarkable amphitheatres in Pula and Durres. We will also visit one of most important archaeological sites in the Balkans in Montenegro, the fortress and open-air museum of Old Bar whose settlement dates back to the 8th century AD.
With a maximum of just 50 guests, our trips ashore will be a pleasure as we explore with local guides, adding immeasurably to our knowledge of the region. There will also be some late departures from port and overnight moorings, allowing for the opportunity to enjoy the evening atmosphere of some delightful harbour towns.
- Charming Istrian Towns: Explore the picturesque town of Piran in Slovenia, influenced by the Venetian Republic. Its clustered Medieval streets and squares make for a photogenic experience. In Croatia, visit Rovinj, known for its atmospheric old town, and Pula, home to one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters.
- Cultural Riches of Zadar: Explore the historical core of Zadar, a city with Roman columns, Romanesque churches, and Renaissance and Baroque palaces. Key landmarks include the 9th century Church of St Donat and the 13th century Romanesque cathedral.
- Mostar's Ottoman Legacy: Cross into Bosnia-Herzegovina to visit Mostar, a thriving center with a rich Ottoman history. Admire the iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge) and explore the old bazaar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Historical Treasures in Durres & Tirana: Discover Albania's history in Durres, home to a 15,000-seat amphitheater. Then, explore Tirana, including a fascinating nuclear bunker from the communist period and notable landmarks like the mosque and Clock Tower. Explore the "Blloku" area before continuing to the medieval city of Durres.
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 sail this evening.
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.
Arrive in Croatia at the atmospheric town of Rovinj where the houses inside the old town are small and lean into each other creating a unique atmosphere. Leaving the town this morning we travel 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 on board an afternoon walking tour of Rovinj 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.
Once a dominant city on the Adriatic coast rivalling Venice, Zadar is today a treasured city that has preserved its historical core. During our guided walking tour we will stroll around the old town with its Roman columns and portals, Romanesque churches and Renaissance and Baroque palaces. Of particular interest are the 9th century circular Church of St Donat and the 13th century Romanesque cathedral. Return to the ship for lunch and some free time before we sail in the late afternoon.
Today we cross the border into Bosnia-Herzegovina for our visit to Mostar. In the 15th century, Mostar became a thriving centre on the banks of the emerald Neretva River under the Ottoman Turks. Damaged by the military conflict in the 1990s, the town has been carefully restored by UNESCO and declared a World Heritage Site. Admire the ethereally graceful Stari Most (‘The Old Bridge’), originally built in 1566, the nearby Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque and an old Turkish house, among other sites. You may also wish to explore the old bazaar independently, a haven for the city’s artists and craftsmen.
Spend the morning at sea as we arrive in Montenegro at lunchtime. From our berth we drive the short distance to the ruins of Old Bar which was built in the hills to protect its residents from attack yet was still subject to invasion from the Venetians, Serbians and Ottoman Empire. Enter via the 11th century city gates and as we wander through the citadel we can see the Ottoman bathhouse, the 17th century aqueduct plus the remains of a Franciscan Monastery and cathedral which were converted to mosques by the Turks. Alternatively remain in the new town, take a stroll on the seaside promenade and visit the elegant Palace of King Nikola built facing the water in 1885. Today, it houses a collection of antiquities, folk costumes and royal furniture whilst the shady gardens contain plants cultivated from seeds and cuttings collected from around the world by Montenegro’s sailors.
Arrive in Albania at the coastal city of Durres which was colonised by the Greeks in 627 BC and still has the remains of a 15,000 seat amphitheatre, the second largest in the Balkans. This morning we will head inland to Tirana where we will see the fascinating nuclear bunker built by the dictator Enver Hoxha in the 1970s and only recently opened to the public. This underground building is packed with original artefacts from the communist period. Afterwards continue walking through the city centre to see the mosque, Clock Tower and the “Blloku” area of the city. After lunch at a local farm we return to Durres to visit the Medieval city and the Archaeological Museum before sailing this evening.
Be on deck this morning as we enter the Gulf of Kotor and sail up the fjord-like entrance to the Medieval town and UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kotor. This really is an extraordinary place full of marvellous architecture and pretty town squares. Our walk will include the 12th century Cathedral of St Tryphon, the ancient town gates, the Maritime Museum and Romanesque churches including St Luke’s. Return to the ship for lunch and enjoy the afternoon exploring at your own pace. Those feeling active may wish to take the strenuous climb to the Castle of San Giovanni which offers wonderful views over the bay and town below.
Check out 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.
