Croatia Island hopping

Why a Small Boat Cruise Around Croatia Should Be on Your Travel Wish List

Croatia has become one of Europe‘s most popular holiday destinations, but if you're looking for a truly unforgettable way to experience this beautiful country, I'd highly recommend a small boat cruise.

I recently returned from an incredible week exploring Croatia's stunning Adriatic coastline, and it was one of the best holidays I've ever experienced. Instead of constantly packing and unpacking, our floating boutique ship became our home for the week. We spent our days sailing along Croatia's breathtaking coastline, stopping for swim breaks in crystal-clear waters before arriving at a new destination each afternoon. Every evening brought another beautiful harbour town to explore, each with its own unique history, atmosphere and fantastic local restaurants.

The Perfect Blend of Relaxation and Adventure

A small boat cruise offers the best of both worlds. During the day, you'll sail through crystal-clear turquoise waters, stopping for swim breaks in secluded bays that are only accessible by boat. There's nothing quite like diving straight from the boat into the warm Adriatic Sea before enjoying lunch on board.

By late afternoon, you'll arrive at your next destination, giving you plenty of time to wander the cobbled streets, enjoy a drink by the harbour and experience authentic Croatian life before dining in one of the many local restaurants.

The Beautiful Places We Visited

Our itinerary included some of Croatia's most spectacular destinations:

Split – A vibrant city where ancient Roman history meets modern waterfront cafés. Diocletian's Palace is an absolute must-see.

Pučišća (Brač Island) – One of Croatia's prettiest villages, famous for its white stone and peaceful harbour.

Hvar – Known for its glamorous marina, historic streets and lively atmosphere, Hvar is the perfect place to enjoy an evening stroll and watch the world go by.

Jelsa – A relaxed harbour town full of charm, traditional restaurants and beautiful waterfront views.

Mljet National Park – One of Croatia's hidden gems. Hire a bike, walk the trails or simply enjoy the breathtaking scenery surrounding the famous salt lakes.

Korčula – Often referred to as 'Little Dubrovnik', this stunning medieval town is packed with history, narrow cobbled streets and fantastic places to eat and drink.

Dubrovnik – The highlight for many visitors. Walk the famous city walls, wander through the historic Old Town and soak up the atmosphere of one of Europe's most iconic cities.

Trogir – A UNESCO World Heritage town full of beautiful architecture, hidden alleyways and waterfront restaurants, making the perfect ending to our Croatian adventure.

Why Choose a Small Boat?

Unlike the huge ocean cruise ships, a small boat carries far fewer passengers, creating a much more personal and relaxed atmosphere. You quickly get to know your fellow travellers and the friendly crew, making the whole experience feel incredibly welcoming.

One of the biggest advantages is that these smaller vessels can access picturesque harbours and hidden bays that larger cruise ships simply can't reach, giving you a far more authentic Croatian experience.

Is It Right for You?

A Croatian small boat cruise is perfect for couples, friends and solo travellers who enjoy exploring, stunning scenery and a relaxed pace. It's ideal if you like the idea of combining sightseeing, swimming, fantastic food and beautiful coastal towns all in one holiday.

My Verdict

If you're looking for something a little different from the traditional beach holiday, I genuinely can't recommend a Croatian small boat cruise enough.

From the crystal-clear waters and spectacular scenery to the beautiful historic towns, delicious local cuisine and relaxed atmosphere on board, it really is one of those holidays that stays with you long after you've returned home.

If a Croatian small boat cruise has caught your eye, I'd love to help you find the perfect itinerary. Whether it's your first visit to Croatia or you're returning to discover more of this incredible coastline, I can help you choose the right ship and sailing for you.

Shirley McManus

Designer Travel

Creating unforgettable holidays, one journey at a time.