Plan your Croatia cruise
A small ship cruise is the best way to see the Croatian coast, but there are a few decisions to make before you book — when to go, which kind of ship, which cabin, one-way or return, and how to get to the ship. We’ve been arranging Croatia cruises for Australians since 2007, so we’ve put together straightforward, no-spin answers to the questions people ask us most. Use the guides below to work out what suits you, and get in touch any time — we’re happy to talk it through.
How do I plan a Croatia small ship cruise?
Start with timing and ship style, then narrow down the cabin and route. First decide roughly when you want to travel, since the season runs from late April to late October and each month feels different. Then choose between a small ship and a large cruise ship — for the Croatian islands, small ships reach far more places. From there it comes down to the ship category and cabin you want, and whether you prefer a one-way or return route. The guides below walk through each of those decisions.
When is the best time to cruise Croatia?
June and September are the sweet spot for most travellers — warm days, sea that’s comfortable for swimming, and quieter islands than the July–August peak. The full season runs from late April to late October, and each part of it has a different feel. Our best time to cruise Croatia guide breaks down the weather, sea temperature and crowds month by month.
Should I choose a small ship or a large cruise ship?
For the Croatian coast, a small ship reaches island towns that large ships physically can’t enter, and docks in the heart of the old towns rather than at industrial terminals. Large ships offer more onboard facilities but can only call at Dubrovnik and Split. Our guide on small ship vs large cruise ship in Croatia covers the differences in detail.
What types of ship and cabin are there?
Croatia’s small ship fleet ranges from luxury balcony vessels through deluxe and vintage categories to traditional wooden gulets, all carrying around 36 to 40 passengers. Cabins differ mainly by deck and window type — balcony cabins on the upper deck, main deck cabins with opening windows, and quieter, more economical porthole cabins on the lower deck. Our ship categories and cabin types guide explains each one so you can match a ship to your group.
What’s included on a Croatia cruise, and what isn’t?
Cruises include your cabin, half board, and the services of the crew, with some sightseeing depending on the route. Drinks, some excursions, and local fees are usually extra. Our Croatia Cruise FAQ covers what’s included, what to budget for, and the practical details of life on board.
Where do Croatia cruises depart from, and how do I get there?
Most cruises depart from the Split area or Dubrovnik, both served by international airports. Because of port works in Split, Trogir is now the main departure hub for the Split end, and the exact berth varies by departure. Our Croatia cruise port location guide explains where each ship departs from and how to reach the ports.
What do I need to know before I travel?
Croatia uses the Euro, the cruise season is summer, and there are a few practical things worth sorting before you fly. Our Before You Go guide covers the pre-trip details, and we strongly recommend arranging travel insurance the day you pay any deposit.
Why book a Croatia cruise through Discover Croatia?
We’re an Australian agent, so you book directly with us and pay in Australian dollars at the same price as booking direct, including any current specials. We work with a broad range of Croatian cruise and tour operators rather than just one, so the advice you get is about what suits you. Our reasons to book with us page explains how it works, and our how to book guide walks through the process.
Ready to look at specific cruises? Browse our Croatia small ship cruises, or get in touch and we’ll help you plan the right trip.
Discover Croatia (Sydney)
Phone/WhatsApp: +61 2 9212 1507
Email: res@discovercroatia.com.au