Cruise from Split to Opatija with Avangard

After breakfast, we set sail for the first island on the route – Hvar, an island covered in vibrant and fragrant lavender fields and olive groves. The historic island town is home to 7 th -century fortifications, a Venetian loggia, historic piazzas and the oldest municipal theatre in Europe. Learn more about it on a guided city tour. Back on the vessel for lunch then cruise toward the island of Vis, once one of the main Greek colonies in the 4th century BC. As a Yugoslavian army base for a long period, until 1991, Vis was closed and left untouched by the development of tourism for many years. As a result, its culture and architecture are extremely well preserved. Take a walk, enjoy the views and taste some local delicacies at many excellent restaurants and taverns along the promenade. 

In the morning visit the famous Blue Cave on Biševo, a splendorous and unique geomorphological natural wonder. A hypnotizing silver-blue light illuminates the space inside the cave when the sunlight hits the surface of the ocean through a vault on its arched roof and reflects off the seabed (Entrance fee approx. 15 €, to be paid on the spot). The possibility of a cave visit will depend on weather conditions. A breakfast followed by a swim stop on the way to Primošten. Enjoy the lunch on board as the cruise continues towards Primošten, a small, picturesque town situated between Šibenik and Trogir, in the central part of the Adriatic coast and surrounded by seven other islets, a wonderful sight and a beautiful place to explore. Late afternoon transfer inland for an authentic heritage dinner. 

Early morning departure to the Kornati National Park, which consists of around 100 islands, islets and reefs. In addition to this, the continental part includes ¼ of the surface of the park, while the rest belongs to the marine ecosystem. Enjoy the ruins of the ancient Illyrian fortress, Roman villas, old Christian church of St Mary and medieval fortresses and settlements. Some of the reefs are sometimes up to 100 m deep in the sea. Afterwards, the cruise continues towards Zadar, for centuries the capital of Dalmatia and the oldest university town in Croatia. Join a guided tour of the city. Zadar is well known for its rich historical heritage of world importance, visible at every step: the Roman Forum from the 1st century, St Donat church from the 9th century - the most famous medieval basilica and the symbol of the city, mighty city walls with a bow and a representative city gate from the 16th century, the Museum of ancient glass, over 30 churches in the old town, many palaces and villas, as well as the famous, contemporary Sea Organs and “Greeting to the Sun” light installation. 

Wake early to admire this morning's sunrise over the Adriatic as you enjoy a hearty breakfast. Today's destination is the island of Lošinj, known as the “sunshine island” with an abundance of pines, wildflowers and herbs. Losinj is one of the most popular islands on the northern Adriatic because of its hidden coves and cool Mediterranean vibe. On arrival to Mali Lošinj, visit the Museum of Apoxyomenos. The museum is dedicated to the ancient bronze statue of an athlete found in the sea near the island. Time at leisure to explore this fragrant island: walk up to the Lošinj Aromatic Garden or to the smaller town of Veli Lošinj, both easy to reach on foot. 

While enjoying the breakfast on board, cruise north towards Brijuni, which consists of 14 islands and islets, among which the biggest is Veliki Brijun. Except for its beautiful nature, the archipelago has numerous dinosaur footprints. Lunch on board, followed by the Brijuni National Park visit. Explore this oasis of magnificent harmony between man, animal and plant life. Afternoon cruise towards Pula. Upon arrival, time at leisure to explore the city that has existed for three thousand years. Settled in the prehistoric era and valued for its strategic location, Pula has been occupied, destroyed and rebuilt numerous times. The Arena in Pula is the only remaining Roman amphitheatre to have four side towers entirely preserved. In the evening, Captain's dinner on board with live entertainment. 

Today's destination is Opatija, the Pearl of Adriatic. The elegant tourist destination, lies at the foot of Učka mountain, with the longest tradition of tourism in Croatia. Upon arrival, an experienced guide will introduce the magnificent history of Opatija and show the most precious monuments during a guided walking tour, followed by the choco tasting. Evening at leisure to explore, take a stroll on the amazing seaside promenade and enjoy the excellent gastronomic offer in one of the many top-quality restaurants in Opatija. 

A tasty breakfast before bidding farewell to the crew. Check-out and transfer to the airport