The Balkans is a wonderful destination for travelers looking for a unique and immersive travel experience. With its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural scenery, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality, the Balkans is definitely worth exploring.
Join Annette on this Exclusive Travel with Me Journey and travel through Macedonia, Albania and Montenegro and experience this incredible part of the world before everyone catches on, and the crowds descend.
Our adventure will be followed by an 8 day cruise on our own privately chartered ship. Experience the wonders of Croatia on this classic route from Dubrovnik to Split. Explore the incredible Mjlet National Park, get lost in medieval Korcula, visit the phenomenal Blue Cave in Bisevo and wander the cobbled streets of Diocletian’s Palace in Split as you take in all that the remarkable Dalmatian Coast has to offer!
Read our Blog on Albania and Macedonia
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Macedonia, Kosovo, Albania, Montenegro, Croatia
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22
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03 to 24 August 2024
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Exclusive Journey (EJ)
Overview
3 to 24 August 2024
3 Aug to 17 August – Skojpe to Dubrovnik
17 Aug to 24 August – Cruise Dubrovnik to Split (Luxury ship with 12 Balcony cabins)
Move down for Pricing Options
22 days – With optional extension after the cruise to Northern Croatia and Slovenia
This exclusive Travel with Me Journey will show you a taste of Northern Macedonia, Kosovo, Albania and Montenegro before finishing with with a stunning cruise along the coast of Croatia, on our very own Luxury small ship on this classic route from Dubrovnik to Split. See Deck Plan under Map.
CONDITIONS
- Exclusive, fully escorted, Travel with Me Journey
- Based on departure 3 August 2024
- Maximum of 16 guests for Northern Macedonia/Albania land itinerary
- A deposit of $1600 is required within 7 days of booking
- A Further $2000 will be required by 20 Feb 2024
- Finals are due 30 April 2024
- Prices and Itinerary are subject to availability and subject to change without notice
- Amendment and cancellation fees will apply both from the Supplier and Travel with Me
- Cancellations prior to final payment will incur loss of deposit and after final payment, all monies are non refundable. If we can find a replacement, then we will be able to provide a partial refund.
- Please ask your Travel with Me, Consultant, for a competitive Travel Insurance quote as insurance is compulsory on all Travel with Me Exclusive and Private Journeys
- Please ensure you have a current passport with a minimum of 6 months validity beyond the return date of your journey.
Price
Highlights
- Day trip into Bosnia
- Explore the city of Skopje including the old part of the city and the Skopje bazaar
- Dinner at a local family winery
- Dinner at a local family house in rural area and traditional Macedonian Village
- Travel through the famous Tikvesh wine region and stay at Popova Kula Hotel and winery
- Visit Stobi archeological site from 1st century and the biggest Roman site in Macedonia
- 3 course lunch at local winery, Ciflik
- Visit Ohrid and Ohrid Lake
- Catamaran tour on Ohrid Lake with wine and cheese tasting
- Explore Tirana - Capital of Albania
- Visit the biggest Albanian port and coastal city of Durres
- Tour to Berat - the City of 1000 Windows
- Lunch and wine tasting at local Albanian Winery, Cobo
- Stay Podgorica Montenegro
- Visit Kotor old town in Montenegro
- Local food experiences throughout
- 7 night Croatian Cruise on privately chartered luxury small ship, MS Antaris
- Oyster Tasting in Ston
- Visit Bisevos Blue Cave
- Mljet National Park
Itinerary
Transfer from airport to Hotel
Upon arrival, meeting with the local guide and transfer to the hotel. Overnight in Skopje.
Skopje – The City
Skopje was an Ottoman city for 5 centuries, which is evident in its magnificent architecture and sumptuous cuisine. It is divided by the River Vardar into the predominantly Muslim half north of the river, to the mostly Christian Orthodox side to the south of the river. There has been a large influx of foreigners since the NATO intervention into Kosovo, which adds to the cosmopolitan allure of the city.
Skopje is a lively, young city with lots of fun loving folk who like to be out, whether it’s at cafés, bars and clubs socializing with friends, or in active outdoor pursuits. Skopje has numerous dance clubs for a small city, which speaks to its spirit and energy. There are also a wide range of outdoor activities, from horse riding to rock climbing to keep every type of visitor entertained.
Skopje – Do & See
Skopje has blossomed into a thriving, stimulating city to explore, defining itself as an exciting tourist destination. Addresses in Skopje can be confusing. Often only street names are listed as building numbers. If a building number does exist, it is listed after the street name.
- Archaeological Museum of North Macedonia
- Church of the Ascension of Jesus
- Mustafa Pasha Mosque
- Old Bazaar
- Mother Teresa Statue
- Stone Bridge (kamen Most)
- Skopje Fortress Kale
- St. Pantelejmon Monastery
- Daut Pasha Baths/City Art Gallery
- Cifte Amam
- Lake Matka
- Mount Vodno & Millennium Cross
- Holocaust Memorial Centre
- Millennium Cross
- Heli XC Paragliding
3 course Dinner at hotel
Breakfast at the hotel.
In a morning, a light walking tour in the city center with visit to the Old part of the city. We will start with Skopje bazaar with its unique Ottoman monuments and unique architecture. Several inns and Turkish baths (Hammams), together with the biggest mosque in Skopje from 15th century will be combined with visit to St Spas (the Holly Salvation) church, with its magnificent wood carved iconostasis from 19th century.
Light lunch at typical local restaurant in the old bazaar.
Afternoon visit to Skopje fortress and the new part of the town, with the main square with its statues and monuments, the Memorial house of Mother Teresa (born in Skopje in 1910) Back to the hotel. Dinner at local family winery Kartal near Skopje with wine tasting.
Overnight in Skopje
Dinner at local family winery Kartal near Skopje with wine tasting.
Accommodation at Next Door Park Double/Twin room
Breakfast at the hotel.
Afternoon visit to Matka lake and gorge, in the vicinity of Skopje. Light walking to Matka lake and boat tour to the entrance of cave Vrelo, the deepest underwater cave in Europe.
Light lunch at Monastery cave in Matka.
Afternoon visit to rural area near Skopje and traditional Macedonian village. You will be invited for welcome coffee at home made sweets at local family house. The hosts will serve home made vegetable pie, local produced cheese and vegetables.
Back to the hotel.
Overnight in Skopje
Coffee, sweets and light dinner at local family restaurant
Breakfast at the hotel.
Full day to so called “The youngest European country”. Visit to the Serbian orthodox monastery Grachanica – UNESCO site. Visit to Pristina, the Kosovo capital. Walking tour in the city center.
Light lunch at local restaurant Beska in Prizren
Afternoon drive to visit Prizren, a picturesque town with long history. Free time in the Prizren old bazaar and later on drive back to Skopje. Dinner at a local restaurant in Skopje. Overnight in Skopje
Pristina – The City
Things are happening fast in Pristina, capital of Kosovo, one of the world’s youngest states, and although leisure tourism still seems to not have much affected this part of Europe, the situation is predicted to soon change, with no longer just expat employees of the EU or UN walking the city streets.
Kosovar cultural scene is now in transition from budding to full bloom, with art, music and sporting events held frequently, and exhibitions for visual arts showcasing works by international talents (most notably, the National Gallery of Kosovo’s “Muslim Mulliqi” and “Gjon Mili”). Cultural outings are easily broken up with frequent trips to the cafes – coffee is a serious affair in Kosovo, some maintaining that it is here that the world’s best macchiato is to be had – and at rock-bottom prices.
Dinner at Gostilnica Lira Skopje
Accommodation at Next Door Park Double/Twin room
Check out at Next Door Park
Breakfast at the hotel.
Leaving Skopje and drive towards the central part of Macedonia and the famous Tikvesh wine region. On the way visit to Stobi archeological site from 1st century AD, the biggest Roman site in Macedonia. Stop at the local town of Kavadarci considered as center of the wine region.
Free time in the city centre
Afternoon drive towards Demir Kapija (Iron gate) small town with the biggest wine production and wineries.
Accommodation at Popova Kula Hotel & Winery
Check out at Popova Kula Winery
Breakfast at the hotel.
Morning drive towards Prilep with stop at coffee break in the city center. Later on transfer with minibuses to the unique monastery Treskavec, located high above the city, on the top of the local rocky mountains.
Light lunch at local restaurant in Prilep
Afternoon drive towards the highest town in Macedonia – Krusevo. Visit to the Makedonium memorial
Dinner at the hotel restaurant – selected local traditional meals
Accommodation at Hotel Montana-Kursevo
Breakfast at the hotel.
Drive and visit to Bitola, the second biggest town in Macedonia. Visit to Heraclea Lynkestis ancient site established by father of Alexandar the Great, Philip II. Later on city tour by walking and visit to the old part with the bazaar, main square, Yeni mosque and the Clock tower.
Free time in Bitola city center.
Late 3 course lunch at the local winery Ciflik www.ciflikwinery.com accompanied with locally produced wine (1 glass of white and 1 glass of red wine + mineral water 0.5l per person included)
Back to Krusevo.
Accommodation at Hotel Montana-Kursevo
Breakfast at the hotel.
Drive towards the second biggest natural lake in Macedonia – Prespa lake. Visit to the unique Folklore museum at village Podmochani, the richest private collection of folk costumes and items in Macedonia.
Lunch will be at local restaurant Stara cesma at village of Ljubojno – traditional meals.
Afternoon drive across Galichica NP located between the two lakes, with panoramic views of both Prespa and Ohrid lake. Arrival in Ohrid and accommodation at the hotel Dinner at local restaurant Overnight in Ohrid
Dinner at Local Restaurant in Ohrid
Accommodation at City Palace Hotel
Breakfast at the hotel.
Full day tour in Ohrid visiting the most famous Ohrid sites. Walking tour starts in a morning with visit to the Holy area of Plaoshnik, St Sofia Cathedral church and the unique church of St John Kaneo. 1 hour catamaran tour “Ohrid by the lake side” with unlimited wine and cheese tasting .
Afternoon at leisure in Ohrid
Dinner at Ana Marija with Panoramic view of Ohrid
Accommodation at City Palace Hotel
Check out at City Palace Hotel
Breakfast at the hotel
Morning drive along the lake to St Naum monastery. Visit to the monastery established in 9th century. 30 min boat tour with row boats in the national park above the spring of Black Drim river.
Border crossing to Albania and drive on the Albanian side of the lake towards Tirana.
Free time for lunch is possible in St Naum or in the city of Pogradec, Albania
Upon arrival in Tirana accommodation at hotel.
Overnight in Tirana.
Tirana – The City
The 1992 elections in Albania ended 47 years of communist rule. The shaking off of the restrictive weight of the communist regime is expressed in the attitudes of freedom and fun found in the Albanian people, and the untamed colour schemes of the newly redecorated buildings here are a visual demonstration of this energetic rebirth. The oppression that stifled life here for years has been discarded and a “new lease on life” attitude is evident in this city.
Tirana itself is an enticing mix of stern Soviet Bloc cement buildings, Ottoman minarets and 1930’s Italian architecture, which juxtapose the wild colour schemes of newer buildings that have been redecorated by local artists. The religious buildings in Tirana are a wonderful mix of Christian and Muslim shrines, which speaks to its varied heritage and multi-cultural present. There is also a pulsing nightlife scene and Tirana is famous for its all night café culture.
Tirana – Do & See
Old Communist Regime relics have become popular tourist attractions and are a severe reminder of the recent past. Street signs are still up and coming as tourism develops here. If you ask a local for directions they are given in terms of landmarks. The addresses listed in this guide are often street names only – building numbers do not exist universally here.
- Tirana’s Colorful Facades
- Skanderbeg Square
- Clock Tower
- Et’hem Bey Mosque
- Tanners’ Bridge
- National Museum of History
- International Centre of Culture
- Prime Minister’s Residence
- Mount Dajti
- Central Market
- Archaeological Museum
- National Gallery of Figurative Arts of Albania
- Skanderbeg Statue
- Kinema Millennium
- Resurrection of Christ Orthodox Cathedral
- Grand Park (Parku i Madh)
Dinner at local restaurant
Accommodation at Hotel Opera
Breakfast at the hotel.
Full day tour to Durres – the biggest Albanian port and coastal city, famous as the point where historical Roman route Via Ignatia was beginning its route on the Balkans. Later on visit to Kruje and the museum dedicated to the Albanian hero Skender bay.
Free time in Kruje.
Afternoon drive back to Tirana.
Evening at leisure in Tirana
Overnight in Tirana.
Dinner at Local restaurant in Tirana
Accommodation at Hotel Opera
Breakfast at the hotel.
Full day tour to Berat, another UNESCO site of Albania. Visit to Berat castle and the famous Onufri museum.
Lunch at local winery Cobo with wine tasting.
Afternoon drive back to Tirana.
Free time in Berat
Accommodation at Hotel Opera
Check out at Hotel Opera
Breakfast at the hotel.
Drive towards north part of Albania with stop at city of Shkoder. Border crossing to Montenegro and arrival at Podgorica. Walking in the city center.
Free time for lunch at Shkodra.
Dinner at Local restaurant in Podgorica
Accommodation at Hotel Podgorica
Check out at Hotel Podgorica
Breakfast at the hotel.
Drive to Cetinje and city tour by walking with local guide in Cetinje – the former Royal capital of Montenegro, with visit to local museums. Drive from Cetinje towards Montenegro coastline, with panoramic views. Arrival in Boka Kotorska bay (UNESCO site) and visit to Kotor Old town.
Late local authentic Lunch at restaurant Konak near Cetinje
Drive along the bay towards Croatian border. Upon arrival in Dubrovnik, drop of at the hotel. End of the tour.
Hotel Lero
Breakfast at hotel
Check out of hotel
Transfer from Hotel to the MS Antaris, your home for the next 8 days.
MS Antaris
11 Balcony cabins Upper Deck
8 Port Hole cabins Lower Deck
MS Antaris is an outstanding deluxe vessel that made its maiden voyage in the 2019 season. Built to luxurious and high-quality standards, it boasts the latest up to date facilities. All cabins have modern amenities and a select few include a private balcony.
The MS Antaris also features a spacious salon style restaurant and bar, a sundeck with sun beds and a jacuzzi to relax in, an outdoor lounge area and a swimming platform on the back of the vessel. Come aboard for a truly unique and memorable time along the Adriatic!
Cruise Overview (program subject to change)
Experience the wonders of Croatia on this classic route from Dubrovnik to Split. Explore the incredible Mjlet National Park, get lost in medieval Korcula, visit the phenomenal Blue Cave in Bisevo and wander the cobbled streets of Diocletian’s Palace in Split as you take in all that the remarkable Dalmatian Coast has to offer!
CHARTER HIGHLIGHTS
- Guided walking tours with a local guide (Split, Korčula, Dubrovnik, Hvar)
- Ston oyster tasting experience with oysters served on a floating platform right in the middle of the bay
- Olive oil & wine tasting followed by a traditional “peka” dinner in UNESCO protected Stari Grad Plain
- Take in the breathtaking beauty of Mljet National Park
- Visit the spectacular Blue Cave on the island of Bisevo
Cruise – Dubrovnik
Welcome to Dubrovnik, the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’! Your adventure begins with a transfer to your vessel in Gruz harbour where embarkation begins at 14:00hrs. Feel free to begin your explorations of Dubrovnik before meeting your fellow travelers at a Welcome Dinner on board.
Welcome dinner onboard
Accommodation on MS Antaris
Dubrovnik – The City
Few places in the world master the mix of young and modern with the medieval and baroque better than Dubrovnik.
The city naturally revolves around the Old Town which is inside the city walls. There, you’ll find a blend of shops, cafes, bars, a fantastic atmosphere, and some very beautiful sights as you walk along down the Stradun. The squares in the Old Town are lined with bars or restaurants that have outdoor seating, giving the visitors, as well as the locals, a chance to relax with a drink in the sunshine.
Outside the city walls, modern Dubrovnik offers everything you would expect from a Mediterranean countr. Figs, lemons, oranges and peaches are to be found dangling from the trees in many of the gardens.
The town’s architecture displays very little evidence from the ‘Siege of Dubrovnik’ in 1992, during which more than two thousand bombs were dropped on the town. The only hint of this is the presence of all the newly tiled roofs in town.
Dubrovnik is well worth a visit any time of the year, but, naturally, spring and summer brings out the best in the city.
Dubrovnik – Do & See
“The pearl of the Adriatic” as the city is described, Dubrovnik, offers a great mix of history, sun and sea making it a popular tourist destination. Thanks to its location between the towering Dinaric Alps and the Adriatic Sea, the city has an incredible scenery that just needs to be seen with your own eyes. There are plenty of gems and spots to discover and the visitors are spoiled with choices all year round.
Start you day by exploring the town’s history and walk around the city walls and the Old Town, no visit to Dubrovnik would be complete without these two spectacular attractions. If you want to cool down, head over to one of the beaches with crystal clear sea and within easy reach. Alternatively, why not take a water taxi to one of the islands around Dubrovnik and enjoy gorgeous beaches, lush vegetation and the relaxed vibe. Either way, you will find endless things to do, so you better start planning.
Breakfast onboard
Charter DUBROVNIK – SLANO
Start the day with a guided walking tour of Dubrovnik’s Old Town. You’ll be introduced to a beautifully preserved medieval city protected by 13th century fortifications and filled with Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Once back on the ship you’ll continue on to Slano, a delightful picturesque town north of Dubrovnik. Lunch will be served on board and there’ll be a chance for a swim on the way too. Upon arrival in Slano take a short boat ride to Ston, an area known for its long tradition of oyster farming. You’ll even get a chance to visit an oyster farm and sample the oysters and mussels, perfectly paired with some local wine. Return to Slano where the rest of the day is at your leisure. BL
Includes a hour city tour by a local experience guide using whisper technology , Can include bus transfer , walking to the port to the old town takes around 45 minutes one way
Swim Stop
A short swim stop in the stunning Adriatic for all guests before lunch
3 Course lunch onboard
Ston Oyster Tasting Experience
We start our tour by coach with English speaking guide to Ston, small medieval town whose history dates as far back as the Dubrovnik Republic. Firstly, we will stop in Bay of Mali Ston, known for its cultivation of shellfish, especially oysters and mussels, indispensable destination for true lovers of seafood delicacies. We will embark to small wooden ship that will take us on 10-12 minutes cruise where we will pass by oyster farm to see where they grow, and stop on platform where we will taste raw oysters and cooked mussels with glass of wine, and our host will tell us something about oysters and mussels and how they produce it. Entire experience last 1:15 hours after where we will go Ston town, famous for its 5.5 kilometre long walls, built in the 15th century according to a plan with a rectangular scheme of streets and squares. The longest preserved stone wall in Europe are recently fully renovated and open for visit, to walk from one to other side of Ston and, if somebody like to hike more, can reach Mali Ston that is only one kilometer further. Besides being rich with historical and cultural tradition, value of Ston as the city of salt has been confirmed even today in the plants of the oldest active saltworksin the world. The saltworks remained true to the tradition and a natural production method, which hasn’t change since the era of antiquity. After relaxed time we will go back to Slano on board for overnight.
Includes: English speaking guide, return transfer, oyster tasting experience with glass of wine. Excursion lasts approx. 4.5 hours in total.
Accommodation on MS Antaris
Breakfast onboard
Charter SLANO – MLJET
Early in the morning cruise to the island of Mljet, famous for its stunning National Park and densely forested landscape. After lunch on board and a swim stop, head for the town of Pomena where a visit to Mljet National Park is planned. Discover the park’s two turquoise lakes, Veliko Jezero and Malo Jezero, meaning Great Lake and Little Lake. Board a small boat and visit the islet of St. Mary to see the Benedictine Monastery built during the 12th century. This evening enjoy a Captain’s dinner aboard the ship.
Swim Stop
A short swim stop in the stunning Adriatic for all guests before lunch
3 Course lunch onboard
Mljet National Park excursion
Mljet National Park is a beautiful park covering the majority of the northwest part of Mljet Island in Croatia.
Although mostly known for its two picturesque saltwater lakes, Mljet National Park has plenty to offer, including exploring its lakeside paths by bike, hiking, and cave exploring.
ABOUT MLJET NATIONAL PARK (CROATIA)
The Island of Mljet is located near the Pelješac peninsula, which is part of the southern section of the Dalmatian Coast. Known as Croatia’s greenest and one of the largest islands, Mljet harbors a diverse range of Mediterranean vegetation and Aleppo Pine forests covering an area of approximately 5300 hectares.
To access the park, local authorities require an entrance ticket, which you can purchase at a kiosk in Sobra, Pomena, or Polače.
The primary natural attractions of this nature park are the two saltwater lakes Veliko Jezero (Big Lake or Great Lake), and Malo Jazero (Small Lake). These lakes cover a large area of approximately 4 kilometers.
Additionally, within the Veliko Jezero, visitors will find a small island called Sveta Marija, or Islet Melita, which contains a beautiful former 12th Century Benedictine monastery called Crkva Sveta Marije.
Captains dinner onboard
Accommodation on MS Antaris
Breakfast onboard
Charter MLJET – KORCULA
Journey on to Korcula, the rumoured birthplace of the renowned merchant explorer Marco Polo. Enjoy a swimming break en route in one of the many secluded bays and coves in the Adriatic. Lunch will be served on board. In the afternoon, arrive in Korcula Town for a walking tour that will take you through the narrow, cobblestone streets. Learn all about the interesting stories and legends of this town including tales on the life of Marco Polo. BL
Swim Stop
A short swim stop in the stunning Adriatic for all guests before lunch
3 Course lunch onboard
Korcula Walking Tour
45 minute to 1 hour walking tour of Korcula by a local guide using whisper technology
Accommodation on MS Antaris
Breakfast onboard
Charter KORCULA – VIS
This morning, head to enigmatic and unspoilt island of Vis. For many years Vis was used as a strategic military base and until 1989, it had been closed off to the general public. As a result the island has retained a remarkable untouched charm. Upon arrival, spend an afternoon at leisure to experience the island’s natural beauty first hand. May we suggest a visit the Archaeological Museum located in a former fortress built by the Austrians in the 19th century, or perhaps a leisurely stroll along the seaside promenade where most of the bars and restaurants are located. Your cruise manager will always be able to provide great tips and recommendations for dinner or points of interest.
Swim Stop
A short swim stop in the stunning Adriatic for all guests before lunch
3 Course lunch onboard
Accommodation on MS Antaris
Breakfast onboard
Charter – VIS – BISEVO – HVAR
Your first stop today will be the spectacular Blue Cave on the island of Bisevo. The cave’s natural underwater entrance creates a magical deep blue light that engulfs the interior. After this extraordinary experience, continue on towards the town of Stari Grad on the island of Hvar, one of the longest and sunniest of Croatia’s islands. Along the way enjoy a refreshing swim stop at the Paklinski islands. On arrival in Stari Grad you will have some free time to explore the town at your own pace or perhaps takes a short drive to Hvar Town which your cruise manager can help you organise (at own expense). Later in the afternoon, embark on a trip to the agricultural masterpiece of Stari Grad Plain which has remained virtually intact since it was created by ancient Greek colonist in the 4th century BC. At this UNESCO protected site you will have an opportunity to witness a beautiful sunset, delight on the local delicacies and feast on a traditional ‘Peka’ dinner at the Hora estate -all this whilst being surrounded by lush olive groves and fields of lavender. BLD
Please note: The Blue Cave is only accessible with small boats through an entrance just 1.5m high so unfortunately it can easily be made inaccessible by bad weather and high waves.
Blue Caves Tour
Not only is the Blue Cave one of the unique natural phenomena in the world, but this bright and beryl attraction on Bisevo island .The magnificent work of Mother Nature, this cerulean oasis is so unique because it is formed due to seawater eroding limestone, a rock Biševo island is wholly composed of. Thanks to the sunlight’s reflection off of the white seabed, which creeps through the opening of a vault at the top of the cave, a mesmerizing blue hue fills its capacity. The Blue Cave only recently opened to the public and has proved its worth as a Croatian hotspot in a short time.
Swim Stop
A short swim stop in the stunning Adriatic for all guests before lunch
3 Course lunch onboard
Hvar walking Tour
A 45 minute to 1 hour walking tour with a local experienced guide using whisper technology
Excursion and Dinner at Hora Estate , Stari Grad Plain
Later in the afternoon, embark on a trip to the agricultural masterpiece of Stari Grad Plain which has remained virtually intact since it was created by ancient Greek colonist in the 4th century BC. At this UNESCO World Heritage listed site you will have an opportunity to witness a beautiful sunset, delight on the local delicacies and feast on a traditional ‘Peka’ dinner at the Hora estate – all this whilst being surrounded by lush olive groves and fields of lavender.
Accommodation on MS Antaris
Breakfast on vessel
Charter HVAR – SPLIT
Depart Stari Grad in the morning and cruise north towards the mainland. Enjoy a swim stop at one of the beautiful coves and bays that dot the coast of Brac island before having lunch on board. Then, continue to the ancient city of Split for a guided walking tour of the UNESCO World Heritage listed Old Town. Get acquainted with the incredible Diocletian’s Palace and learn about the rich heritage of the area. As the economic and cultural capital of the Dalmatian coast, Split offers plenty to see and do for all travellers alike. Why not climb the Bell Tower of St Domnius cathedral breathtaking views of the city, or take a walk along the Riva Promenade and peruse the many shops, bars and restaurants? The afternoon will be at your leisure to discover this lively city. BL
Swim Stop
A short swim stop in the stunning Adriatic for all guests before lunch
3 Course lunch onboard
Split – The City
Split is the second largest city in Croatia. In the summer, it is a dynamic and vibrant holiday resort. Its pulsating heart is the compact Old Town, composed of orderly streets and monuments of the imposing Roman emperor’s abode.
Just a stone’s throw away from the Palace, Riva, the evocative seafront promenade, runs parallel to the city in a hub of activities that buzzes with life from the early hours — replete with shops, cafes and bars, the seafront boardwalk is where both locals and tourists congregate day and night, mingling and mixing.
If the city centre and the crowded beaches have become a major draw for tourists, Split peninsula is where serenity reign supreme and the backdrop of Mediterranean flora shapes the atmosphere.
Split – Do & See
The ancient walls of the Old City encircle squares, crescents and architectural beauties that create a cultural hub for the travellers to discover. Split has a rich history that is apparent to everyone who sets foot in the city. Here you will find historical sites as The Cathedral Of St. Domnius, the main part of which dates to the 4th century CE; Pjaca Clock Tower and Diocletian’s Palace to name a few.
Besides the treasure of the magnificent past, Split also offers the timeless beauty of nature: its crystalline waters, long stretches of white beaches and the green oasis embedded at the tip of the peninsula are a major draw for nature lovers, offering hundreds of options for outdoor activities or water-sports.
Thanks to its stunning surroundings the captivating city of Split has fully embraced tourism, creating a destination where its natural peculiarities have been enhanced by vibrant of bars, restaurants, shops and cultural institutions.
- Croatian Maritime Museum
- Archaeological Museum
- Ivan Meštrović Gallery
- Split City Museum
- Marjan Forest Park
- Boat Trips
- Bakvice Beach
- Bene Beach
- Pjaca Clock Tower
- Riva Waterfront
- Trg Republike — Republic Square
- Gregory of Nin Statue
- Podrum — Cellars of Diocletian’s Palace
- Marmont Street
Split Walking tour
A 45 minute to 1 hour walking tour with an experienced local guide using whisper technology
Accommodation on MS Antaris
Breakfast on vessel
Charter – SPLIT
Your cruise concludes after breakfast and with a departure transfer for your onward journey.
Tour Inclusions and Exclusions
Inclusions
- 4 nights accommodation at hotel Next Door park Skopje
- 1 night accommodation at boutique hotel Popova Kula Demir Kapija
- 2 nights accommodation at hotel in Krusevo
- 2 nights accommodation at hotel City Palace Ohrid
- 3 nights accommodation at hotel Opera Tirana
- 1 night accommodation at hotel Podgorica in Podgorica
- 1 night accommodation 4 star hotel Dubrovnik
- 14 x breakfast at hotels
- day 2 - light lunch at Skopje old bazaar
- day 3 - light lunch at restaurant monastery cave Matka lake
- day 4 - light lunch at restaurant Beska Prizren
- day 6 - light lunch at local restaurant in Prilep
- day 7 - late lunch at winery Chiflik in Bitola with wine and water
- day 8 - lunch at village restaurant Stara Cesma village Ljubojno
- day 9 - cheese tasting with unlimited wine on catamaran cruise
- day 12 - late lunch with wine tasting at winery Cobo Berat
- day 14 - lunch at restaurant Konak near Cetinje
- day 1 – dinner at the hotel upon arrival
- day 2 – dinner at local family winery Kartal Skopje
- day 3 – Home hosted dinner with local family
- day 4 – dinner at Gostilnica Lira restaurant Skopje
- day 5 – dinner with wine tasting (3 course meal + 3 kind of wines) at Popova Kula Winery
- day 6 – dinner at the hotel restaurant in Krusevo
- day 8 – dinner at etno restaurant Sv Petka Ohrid
- day 9 – dinner at restaurant Ana Marija with panoramic view of Ohrid
- day 10 – dinner at local restaurant in Tirana
- day 11 – dinner at local restaurant in Tirana
- day 13 – dinner at local restaurant in Podgorica
- Transportation with tourist class bus according the itinerary, from Skopje to Dubrovnik
- English speaking local guide and escort during the tour from Skopje to Dubrovnik
- Local guides in Albania (days 11 & 12) and Montenegro (day 14)
- Visits to:
- Skopje: Archaeological museum in Skopje (inside), Mustafa pasha mosque (inside), St Spas Church (inside), Skopje fortress (inside) Daut pasha baths (from outside) Cifte Amam (from outside) The Stone bridge, Mother Teresa memorial house (inside), Matka lake and gorge
- Kosovo: Grachanica monastery (inside), Church St George in Prizren (inside), Sinan pasha mosque in Prizren (inside),
- Stobi archeological site (inside), Treskavec monastery (inside), Makedonium monument in Krusevo (inside), the Folklore museum at Podmochani (inside), Galichica NP,
- Ohrid: Plaosnik area (inside), St Sofia cathedral (inside), St John church (from outside), St Naum monastery (inside),
- Albania: Skenderbay museum and castle in Kruje (inside), Berat castle and Onufri museum (inside),
- Montenegro: Cetinje museums (inside), Kotor old town (inside),
- including entrance fees where applicable
- Boat ride on Matka lake, Transfer with minibuses to Treskavec monastery, 1 hour catamaran tour with unlimited wine and cheese tasting, row boats ride at St Naum,
- Visit Macedonia organization and service fee
- ***
- CRUISE CHARTER
- Luxury cruise ship with 11 Balconies and 8 lower deck cabins
- 7 nights charter with crew
- English speaking cruise manager.
- Fully equipped cabins (safe deposit box, hair dryer, LCD TV, cupboard and wardrobe cabinet, AC)
- Fuel for max 4 – 5 hours of sailing daily, including necessary time for mooring and un-mooring
- Daily Buffet breakfast
- HB daily – Breakfast and Lunch (3 course)
- Welcome dinner on Day 1
- Daily cabin servicing, fresh bed linen and towels midweek
- Free WI-FI on board
- Captain dinners 4 course mid week
- Guided walking tours with a local guide (Split, Korčula, Dubrovnik, Hvar)
- Whisper wireless audio devices for guided tours
- Olive oil & wine tasting followed by a traditional “Peka” dinner in UNESCO protected Stari Grad Plain
- Ston oyster tasting experience with oysters served on a floating platform right in the middle of the bay inc transfers
- One way bus transfer from Dubrovnik port to Old town Dubrovnik for sightseeing tour
- Mljet National Park entrance fee
- Blue Cave (Biševo) entrance fee
- Arrival and departure airport transfers
- Port and Tourist tax
Exclusions
- Drinks
- Gratuities (Suggested 85Euro per person for the cruise week)
- Air fares
Deck Plan
