With cruises for the 2022 season being booked “at a record pace,” Katarina Line, Croatia’s premier small ship cruise company, announced that it is adding more departures and enhancing many of its inland tours. The goal is to provide travelers with a more immersive exploration of some of Croatia’s most popular islands, picturesque coastal towns, inland natural attractions, and UNESCO sites. Among new cruises with guaranteed departures is the seven-night “Breathtaking Croatia” between Split and Opatija. The cruise sails along Europe’s legendary Adriatic coast and introduces travelers to numerous islands, historic port towns and national parks.
“Breathtaking Croatia” will make ports of call on the islands of Hvar, known for its fragrant lavender fields and olive groves; Vis, where guests will visit the famous Blue Cave; “the sunshine island” of Lošinj; and Kornati National Park, comprised of more than 100 islands and a popular destination for water sports. Cities visited include Zadar – the oldest continuously inhabited city in Croatia; as well as the coastal towns of Primošten and Pula. Guests will also enjoy an excursion to Brijuni National Park – one of the cruise’s latest additions.
“Breathtaking Croatia” uses Katarina Line’s Deluxe Superior vessels. Spacious and comfortable, these small ships offer “anything but a small ship experience,” said Daniel Hauptfeld, the company’s marketing manager, who added: “They’re more like floating mini boutique hotels!”
A minimum of 150 feet in length, the vessels carry less than 40 passengers and feature air-conditioned cabins with ample room and all the modern conveniences, including en-suite bathrooms for complete privacy. The dining rooms easily accommodate the largest groups, while the outside lounge area and sundeck offer plenty of room to relax, enjoy the fresh sea air, and catch incredible views of the crystal blue waters and Croatian coastline. And guests can enjoy it all as they soak in the soothing waters of the on-deck hot tub!
Seven Nights of Wonder
Katarina Line’s seven-night “Breathtaking Croatia” cruises between the “Pearl of Adriatic,” Opatija, and Split, Croatia’s second-largest city. In between visits to stunning islands and swimming in secluded coves, travelers will experience first-hand some of the country’s historic towns and most inspiring natural wonders. The cruise’s newest excursion, Brijuni National Park, is a glittering collection of islands near the Istria Peninsula. The park is often called “the most beautiful in the world,” thanks to its lush green vegetation and deep blue waters. It features more than 680 local and exotic plants and 150 bird species.
“Breathtaking Croatia” features guided walking tours of the towns of Split, Hvar, Zadar and Opatija. There is also a visit to one of the many popular “choco bars” in Opatija, where guests can sample some of the country’s best coffee, cakes and ice cream – and, of course, chocolate!
“There is a reason that Croatia has been such a popular vacation destination for centuries,” said Hauptfeld. “Our cruises offer guests the unique opportunity to explore Croatia’s history, architecture and natural wonders by sea and through inland excursions that reveal the true beauty, culture, and ancient wonders of Croatia.”
