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Croatia by Yacht: The Islands and People of the Dalmatian Coast

Program Number: 20118RJ
Start and End Dates:
9/19/2013 - 10/1/2013; 9/26/2013 - 10/8/2013; 10/3/2013 - 10/15/2013; 10/10/2013 - 10/22/2013; 10/17/2013 - 10/29/2013; 10/19/2013 - 10/31/2013; 10/24/2013 - 11/5/2013; 10/26/2013 - 11/7/2013;
Duration: 12 nights
Location: Croatia/Montenegro
Price starting at: $2,997.00 - Price may vary based on date, departure city
Program Type: Adventure Afloat Study Cruise; Small Ship Cruising Activity Level: t (see description)
Meals: 29; 11 Breakfasts, 8 Lunches, 10 Dinners    
Meal Options: Vegetarian    

Sail the Dalmatian Coast on a yacht exclusively chartered by Road Scholar to absorb Croatia’s rich and varied history in busy ports and charming island coves. Meet the people who call this coast home and explore rural villages and breathtaking national parks. Delve into the story of the region, from its settlement to 20th century conflict and reconciliation, in the captivating cities of Split and Dubrovnik. Plus spend a night in Montenegro to explore the town of Herceg Novi.




Activity Particulars

Walking up to five miles per day; some uneven and hilly terrain and stairs without railings.



Itinerary At-a-Glance

Herceg Novi (Montenegro), 2 nights; aboard MS Barbara, 7 nights; Split (Croatia), 2 nights.



Day 1: Overnight flight from the U.S.A.


Day 2: Arrival Dubrovnik (Croatia) / coach to Herceg Novi (Montenegro):

Journey to Montenegro and learn how the town of Herceg Novi has been influenced by occupiers including Turks, Venetians, Spaniards and Austro-Hungarians. Lodging: Four-star hotel.



Days 3-4: Coach to Dubrovnik / embark MS Barbara:

Share lunch with a Croatian family in their home en route to Dubrovnik. Discover this beautiful walled city with a local expert.



Day 5: Mljet:

Discover Mljet National Park, distinguished by its dense woods and beautiful saltwater lakes. Take a boat excursion to a small island in one of the lakes to visit a 12th-century monastery.



Days 6-7: Hvar:

In historic Hvar town, visit the West’s first theater open to all classes of society. Learn about the town of Stari Grad, occupied since 384 BC when the Greeks founded a colony there.



Day 8: Trogir:

Explore this ancient Adriatic harbor town including the palace of the Cipiko family and the Kamerlengo Castle, built by the Venetians.



Days 9-12: Split / disembark / departure:

A University of Split professor introduces you to the city. Discover Diocletian’s Palace, built as a massive seaside retirement villa by the Roman emperor. Take a field trip to the village of Sibenik to step inside the Cathedral of St. James, a stunning marble basilica constructed by Italian and later Croatian masters. Lodging: Historic hotel.







Futura

Built in 2013, this beautiful and modern yacht measures 154 feet and can carry up to 38 passengers in 19 cabins. The ship features a large sun deck, lounge and WiFi throughout. Cabin amenities include air conditioning, safe, and hairdryer.
Accommodations
Comfortable hotels, cabins on board MS Barbara.
Meals and Lodgings
   Hunguest Hotel Sun Resort
  Herceg Novi, Montenegro 2 nights
   MY Futura
  At Sea, At Sea 7 nights
   Hotel President
  Split, Croatia 2 nights
 Hunguest Hotel Sun Resort
Type: Hotel
  Description: The Hunguest Hotel Sun Resort is situated on a seaside promenade a mere 5 minute walk from downtown Herceg-Novi where narrow streets, alleyways, intimate squares and cafés abound. The hotel sits among thick Mediterranean vegetation looking out on a view of the Gulf of Kotor.
  Contact info: ul. Sveta Bubala
Herceg-Novi 85340,   Montenegro
phone: +382.31.355 000
web: www.hunguesthotels.hu/en/hotel/herceg_novi/hunguest_hotel_sun_resort/
  Room amenities: High speed internet access, satellite TV, air conditioning, telephone, mini bar, shower, hair dryer, in-room safe and iron/ironing board
  Facility amenities: Swimming pool, paddling pool, private beach, health & wellness center, 3 restaurants, conference center, wireless internet, 24 hour front desk
  Smoking allowed: Yes
  Elevators available: Yes
  Additional nights prior: TBD Please contact Road Scholar Travel Services at (800) 454-5768 for rates and bookings.
  Check in time: 2:00 PM

 MY Futura
Type: Cruise Ship
  Description: A brand new vessel, built in 2013 for the 2013 season; this elegant boat is 47 meters long and 9 meters wide with a cruising speed of 9 nautical miles, offering contemporary style, together with plenty of communal space on-board. Please note that the ship does not have the ability to accept credit cards. All payments (including cabin charges) must be made in cash prior to disembarkation. ATM machines are available in most ports. The currency on board is the Euro and the Croatian Kuna. Type of the boat: A motorized yacht. Number of cabins for guests: 19 Capacity for guests: 38. Crew is consisted of: captain, first engineer, cook, 3 sailors and hostess Number of cabins for crew: 5 Engine characteristics: Motor power: Two "MAN" type engines each with 400Hp Speed: 9 nautical miles per hour Capacity of water tanks: 55 cubic meters Capacity of fuel tanks: 10 cubic meters Electricity supply: from public net, or from two aggregates (220 V) without limitations
  Ship Information: Length: 47m Width: 9m Constructed: 2013 Engines: 2X400 HP Speed: 9NM Diesel tank: 10 t Water tank: 55 m3 Sun deck: 230 m2 Total number of cabins: 19 guest cabins On deck: 11 cabins, Below deck: 8 cabins All cabins have A/C, private facilities, safe. Salon on top deck Crew members: 7
  Contact info: Katarina Line - M. Tita
75/1
Opatija,  51410 Croatia
phone: +385 (0) 51 603 400
web: www.katarina-line.com
  Room amenities: Cabins are located on the main and lower decks. Main deck cabins have a small window or port hole which opens; lower deck cabins have a porthole which opens. Each cabin has twin beds (2x 90x180 cm) which could be pushed together, each cabin with air-conditioning, vanity tables, mirror, night lamps, a safe, small cupboard for clothes, wooden wallboards, chair, electricity supply, safety and fire alarm installations, hairdryer, toilet and shower.
  Facility amenities: Dining area, lounge, large sun deck, newly built in 2013, free wifi throughout. Bar / restaurant with air conditioning. The chef prepares delicious meals with fresh, locally grown food. Seating and sunbathing area on deck
  Smoking allowed: No

 Hotel President
Type: Hotel
  Description: Located in the city center at the foothills of the famous Marjan hill
  Contact info: Starceviceva 1
Split,  21000 Croatia
phone: +385 21 305 222
web: www.hotelpresident.hr
  Facility amenities: Restaurant, bar, laundry & dry cleaning service
  Smoking allowed: Yes
  Elevators available: Yes
  Additional nights after: TBD Contact Road Scholar Travel Services at (800) 241-1404 for rates and bookings.


Travel Details
  Start of Program:
This program begins on day 2 with orientation in the early evening at the program hotel in Herceg Novi, Montenegro. You will be staying at Hunguest Hotel Sun Resort that night.
  End of Program:
This program ends after breakfast on day 12 at the program hotel in Split, Croatia. You will be staying at Hotel President the night before.
  Required documents:
The Road Scholar Health & Safety Form is required. Passport must be valid for 6 months.
  Parking availability:
N/A
Transportation (For Independent Travelers)
  Train or bus availability: Taxis are readily available in both Split and between Herceg Novi and Dubrovnik.
To Start of Program
  Location:  Herceg Novi
  Transportation to site: A group arrival transfer is organized for all participants who purchased an air inclusive program and arrive on the group date. Independent travelers who plan to make their own way to the program hotel in Herceg Novi can pre-book a transfer from the Dubrovnik airport, either through the hotel or through several agencies that offer this service. There is also a designated group transfer available to independent travelers at no additional cost. The transfer time will be confirmed in the final participant mailing approximately 5 weeks prior to departure.
  From End of Program
  Location:  Split
  Transportation from site: A group departure transfer is organized for all participants who purchased an air inclusive program and depart on the group date. Independent travelers can take a taxi from the hotel to the airport or can ask the hotel for assistance in arranging a transfer. There is also a designated group transfer available to independent travelers at no additional cost. The transfer time will be confirmed in the final participant mailing approximately 5 weeks prior to departure.
The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.


Daily Schedule

Day 1: Depart from the US
(Saturday, October 19)
   
 Depart From: Depart from the US on international flights.

Day 2: Arrival and Orientation in Herceg Novi
(Sunday, October 20)

Note: Arrival and transfer to the hotel involves walking approximately 800 yard from where bus stops to the hotel. Luggage will be taken to hotel by mini bus. Any participants who need help will be taken to the hotel by mini bus.
   
 Afternoon: After arrival in Dubrovnik, Croatia, transfer to the hotel in Herceg Novi, Montenegro and take some time to unpack and relax before orientation. In the early evening meet with your Group Leader and fellow participants for introductions and an overview of the program itinerary, logistics and helpful travel information.
 Dinner: Welcome dinner at or near the hotel in Herceg Novi.
   
Accommodations: Hunguest Hotel Sun Resort
Meals Included: Dinner

Day 3: Budva and Kotor, Montenegro
(Monday, October 21)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel
 Morning: Depart by coach to the coastal town of Budva, known for it's sandy beaches and Mediterranean architecture. Explore the Old Town crossed with narrow streets, squares and important buildings. See the churches of Sveti Trojica, Sv. Ivan, Sv. Bogorodica and Sv. Sava, with many shops, cafes, restaurants and galleries.
 Lunch: Lunch on your own in Kotor
 Afternoon: Discover the UNESCO World Heritage site of Kotor. Visit the Old Town, Cathedral of St. Tripun and the Maritime Museum.
 Dinner: Dinner at the hotel
   
Accommodations: Hunguest Hotel Sun Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 4: Herceg Novi / Embark in Dubrovnik, Croatia
(Tuesday, October 22)

Note: In the morning, the visit to Herceg Novi involves walking up a slope to the Old Town approximately 900 yards, then approximately 800 yards through the Old Town to the main square and first fortification, and then 900 yards back to the bus. In the afternoon, the visit to Dubrovnik involves walking no more than 2 miles in a circular trip and standing for up to 2 hours inside the Old City.
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel.
 Morning: This morning check out of the hotel and discover the city of Herceg Novi. Visit the old fortified town decorated by buildings dating back to Turkish, Venetian, Spanish and Austro-Hungarian periods.
 Lunch: Today you have the opportunity to dine in the home of a local family en route to Dubrovnik. Discuss the realities of daily life along the Adriatic coast and gain insight into the culture and values of modern-day residents.
 Afternoon: Explore Dubrovnik, which Lord Byron described as “the Pearl of the Adriatic” while George Bernard Shaw called it “Paradise on Earth”. With such lavish praise heaped on the place, visitors could be forgiven for fearing it might fall short of expectations. Happily, even at first glace, it soon becomes apparent that with its towering stone walls, marble streets and beautiful baroque buildings, Dubrovnik is a city that is not just aesthetically pleasing, but steeped in a rich and fascinating history. We drive to the viewpoint south of town, then cross the stone bridge to walk down the broad, stone-paved main street known as the Stradun. It is the city's main thoroughfare, lined with graceful stone palazzi where people both work and live. Enter the city and visit the amazing courtyard of the Sponza Palace, known for its elaborate stone carvings. Explore the Franciscan monastery, as well as the impressive Rector's Palace and Church of St. Blaise. Late in the afternoon arrive at the MV Liberty and take some time to settle into your cabins.
 Dinner: Dinner on board.
   
Accommodations: MY Futura
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Dubrovnik Old Town
(Wednesday, October 23)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast on board.
 Morning: Gather with your group for a lecture on board. Then transfer to Dubrovnik Old Town for independent exploration.
 Lunch: Lunch on board.
 Afternoon: This afternoon is yours to enjoy the sights and sounds of the Adriatic as the ship cruises toward Mljet.
 Dinner: Dinner on board.
   
Accommodations: MY Futura
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Mljet National Park / Korcula Island and Town
(Thursday, October 24)

Note: In the morning, the visit to Mljet National Park involves walking over a small hill to a small lake and around it along to the big lake for approximately 1 mile and 400 yards, then retracing one's steps back to the ship. In the afternoon, the visit to Korcula requires walking and climbing some steps through the coastal gate and through the Old Town of Korcula for approximately 1 mile and 200 yards, then back to the ship for approximately 600 yards.
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast on board.
 Morning: Discover Mljet National Park, distinguished by its densely wooded environment and two beautiful saltwater lakes, Veliko Jezero and Malo Jezero. On this excursion, you will take a short boat trip to an island located in the centre of Veliko Jezero and pay a visit to the 12th century Benedictine monastery. Walk over the small hill to the Small Lake and along to the bridge leading to the Large Lake to the point where small boats will take you on the Large Lake to the tiny Island of St Mary with its Benedictine Monastery dating back to the 12th Century.
 Lunch: Lunch on board.
 Afternoon: This afternoon the ship arrives at the island of Korcula. Explore Korcula Town, which according to legend was founded by the Trojan hero Antenor. Adorned in smooth white stone on a picturesque point, the sights and sounds of Korcula are truly unique and not to be missed. Walk through the coastal gate and down the main street, the spine of the town grooved by a succession of tiny streets that branch out left and right like fish bones. Legend claims this as the birthplace of Marco Polo, the great Venetian trader and explorer. Visit the Cathedral of St Marc and the Town Museum.
 Dinner: Dinner on your own to sample local cuisine
   
Accommodations: MY Futura
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Hvar Island and Town
(Friday, October 25)

Note: The visit to Hvar is mainly flat and no more than 1 mile and 400 yards round trip, then standing for up to 2 hours.
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast on board.
 Morning: This morning delve into the history and culture of Croatia during an on-board lecture presented by your Study Leader.
 Lunch: Lunch on board.
 Afternoon: The island Hvar is the queen of the Croatian Dalmatian islands. It has been famous since the antiquities because of its strategic and nautical position, the richness of the various historical periods, the culture and natural monuments and the literature. Walk to the Arsenal housing the first theatre in the western world open to all classes, then continue across the old town square to St Stephen's Cathedral. After exploring the cathedral and the Franciscan Monastery, enjoy some free time in the historic city center before returning to the ship.
 Dinner: Dinner on board.
   
Accommodations: MY Futura
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Hvar Island and Stari Grad
(Saturday, October 26)

Note: The visit to Stari Grad is no more than 1 mile round trip of walking on mainly flat ground.
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast on board.
 Morning: This morning discover Stari Grad, formerly known as Pharia and Pharos, one of the oldest settlements on the island and the city after which the island was named (Hvar being a derivative of Pharia and Pharos). With roots reaching back to Greek antiquity, the town is adorned with white stone houses and has an atmosphere so special that throughout the years many of Stari Grad’s visitors have become its permanent residents. Walk along to visit the birthplace of poet Petar Hektorovic and the Dominican Monastery and Museum housing "The Mourning of Christ" by Tintoreto.
 Lunch: Lunch on board.
 Afternoon: Enjoy a group lecture on board given by a professor from Split University.
 Dinner: Dinner on board.
   
Accommodations: MY Futura
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Trogir
(Sunday, October 27)

Note: The visit to Trogir involves walking approximately 1 mile and 600 yards round trip.
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast on board.
 Morning: Enjoy a group lecture on board presented by your Study Leader.
 Lunch: Lunch on board.
 Afternoon: This afternoon discover ancient Trogir with your local expert. This beautiful little town was built on the site of the former Greek settlement of Tragurion and abounds with historical monuments that testify to its centuries of rich cultural heritage. These treasures include the Cathedral with its famous portal, a masterpiece of the local artist Radovan, the City Loggia built in the 15th century, the palace of the Cipiko family, the Town Hall and finally the Benedictine Abbey from 1064, which houses a relief of the Greek god Kairos. Walk along the waterfront to South Town Gate to enter this ancient town dating back 4,000 years. Visit St Lawrence Cathedral and walk to St. Mark Fort to view the city's defense built by the Venetians.
 Dinner: Dinner on your own
   
Accommodations: MY Futura
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 10: Split City Discovery
(Monday, October 28)

Note: The visit to Split involves walking approximately 2 miles and 600 yards round trip on flat ground and standing for up to 2 hours.
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast on board.
 Morning: This morning enjoy a group lecture on board.
 Lunch: Lunch on board.
 Afternoon: Discover Split with your local expert; the city, one of the main ports for the country serves as a hub for the nearby islands and beyond. Here lies Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was built as a retirement residence for the Roman emperor Diocletian, dating back to the third century. Built as a villa, the palace is more like a city within a city. It features huge watchtowers, gates, private apartments, religious monuments and altars, all crafted in white limestone. At one time it housed as many as 9,000 people. The cobblestone streets and open spaces invite great learning opportunities. Explore the Diocletian Palace, Peristyle Square, Cathedral St. Dominus, Temple of Jupiter, Golden Gate and Statue of Bishop Grgur.
 Dinner: Farewell dinner on board.
   
Accommodations: MY Futura
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11: Disembark / Sibenik / Dalmatian Village Experience
(Tuesday, October 29)

Note: In the morning, the visit to Sibenik involves walking approximately 1 mile round trip and standing for up to 1 hour. In the afternoon, participants walk approximately 500 yards round trip across uneven terrain through the village.
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast on board.
 Morning: This morning disembark and depart for a field trip to Šibenik. Unique because of its fortresses and towers such as Sv. Mihovil [St. Mihovil], Sv. Nikola [St. Nicholas], Sv. Ivan [St. John] and Šubicevac, Šibenik is most famous for the cathedral of Sv. Jakov [St. James] that was built in the 15th century. Constructed by the masterful hands of Juraj Dalmatinac and Nikola Firentinac, and because of its original architecture of large stone slabs, this cathedral was entered on the UNESCO list of world heritage and voted at the same time to be most beautiful sacral building in Croatia. Walk along the sea front to the Cathedral and Town Museum.
 Lunch: Home-hosted lunch in a Dalmatian village
 Afternoon: Discover an unspoiled Dalmatian village for a glimpse of the culture and traditions of this part of the Mediterranean. Later in the afternoon return to Split and check in at the hotel.
 Dinner: Dinner at or near the hotel in Split.
   
Accommodations: Hotel President
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12: Split Ethnographic Museum
(Wednesday, October 30)

Note: The visit to the Split Ethnographic Museum involves walking up to 2 miles round trip on flat ground.
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel.
 Morning: This morning, deepen your understanding of the folk culture of Dalmatia at the Split Ethnographic Museum.
 Lunch: Lunch on your own in Split to discover the flavors of Dalmatia; your Group Leader will be on hand to provide suggestions and directions.
 Afternoon: Free time to further explore the city.
 Dinner: Dinner at or near the hotel in Split.
   
Accommodations: Hotel President
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 13: Departure
(Thursday, October 31)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel
 Morning: Transfer to the airport for return flights to the U.S.
   
Meals Included: Breakfast
Important information about your itinerary: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information featured on this website. Itineraries are based on our best information at this time. Circumstances beyond our control may require us to adjust itineraries or other details. We regret any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding. Information will be sent to you from your Program Provider approximately three weeks prior to the program start date. The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.


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