We enjoyed a historical walking tour in Split, ahead of our departure where we were transported back to the days of the Roman emperor Diocletian, who retired to Split and was best known for stabilizing the Roman empire and creating the "rule of 4" Tetrarchy.
We later departed from Split to Sibenik, where we had a captain's toast on board and then once ported, we toured the town at leisure and found some delightful restaurants for dinner and charming local shops.
From Sibenik, we made our way to Skradin, and witnessed the most incredibly beautiful waterfalls of Krka National Park. We hiked along the path of the waterfalls and eventually crossed over the top "up river" and descended on the other side. Later that day we went on a wine tour at a local Croatian Winery that had won several awards and were hand chosen as the unique supplier to some of the region's most prestigious restaurants. Later that evening we watched a movie under the stars - something about watching a movie with newfound friends on board a calmly rocking ship was therapeutic and made for an elevated cinema experience.
Next we embarked from Skradin to Vis, where we found a great watering hole for our first seaside swim, explored the island, had a stellar seafood meal with the group at Pajoda restaurant and then caught the tail end of the Italy and Croatia championship match with some locals. Unfortunately the score ended with a tie and eliminated Croatia's chances for further advancement.
After our night over in Vis, we headed to Hvar with a stop in Bisevo to see the blue cave! We stopped for another swim in the Adriatic, followed by docking in Hvar for a nice dinner and stroll through their beautiful port town.
From Hvar we made our way to Korcula Island. We started out with an early swim and some water activities (Jet Ski's, Snorkeling, Paddleboarding, Sea Bobs), followed by wine tasting at Popic winery - with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. We docked in Korcula for some more great views, bars and dining.
We advanced to Pomena, which started with a hike (and you guessed it - a swim!) in the fluorescent turquoise waters of Malo Jezero (lake) on Mljet island, followed by a dock in a beautiful, secluded cove on Pomena - which allowed for several more daytime swimming sessions. Late afternoon we were blessed with a brief sprinkle that set the stage for the most incredible double rainbow - was like something out of the movies! In the evening we had a fantastic Captain's seafood dinner where we honored the crew and they honored us. Dinner followed by dancing, Karaoke and night swimming! To cap off the evening, mother nature presented the most amazing starlight sky with a full moon rising, casting its glow across the Adriatic.
The next morning we had a great breakfast followed by a morning swim in our favorite cove, then made our way to Dubrovnik for a walking tour of Old Town. A quite beverage and then we headed to Cavtat at a cliffside resort overlooking the charming port below. It was an incredible way to ease out of our voyage and soak up the splendor that is Croatia.
On all of our trips, we often gauge the success by the smiles shown and relationships formed amongst our travelers. What made this trip even more special was that despite being in a group setting, when free time availed, everyone still gravitated towards each other and we all enjoyed each other's camaraderie.
And while all good things come to an end, not everyone went directly home. In the next issue, Bruce will share some insight into his time spent in Austria after the cruise.
🐠 Fun Fact on Croatia: Ever wondered why the Adriatic Sea boasts such an impossibly vibrant blue? Here's the secret – it's so clean that sea urchins are spotted beneath the water everywhere!
Scientists call it "oligotrophic," a fancy way of saying there's a serious shortage of nutrients that algae love to gobble up. Essentially, the crystal-clear water starves these little green monsters, leaving them with no chance of clouding or discoloring the ocean. Now, don't get nervous – this lack of nutrients is completely natural, not a sign of pollution. It's actually the key ingredient in Croatia's legendary blue!
Without the algae takeover, a different cast of fascinating creatures thrives in these pristine waters, including over 450 species of fish, bottlenose dolphins, sea urchins, sea turtles and even sea horses! You can explore a diverse marine ecosystem without worrying about murky green clouds spoiling the view. So, pack your swimsuit, because Croatia's breathtaking underwater world awaits and we just might be headed back next year!
And in the meantime, we are more than happy to share some of the reviews and feedback from our Croatian travelers, for whom we are forever grateful:
★★★★★
"Thanks for an amazing time everyone, truly one for the books!"
★★★★★
"Another amazing trip with Anca from Allora'Scapes!!!"
★★★★★
"The one thing I would impress upon anyone planning a special occasion or memorable vacation… the only one you have to contact is Anca and Bruce at Allora'Scapes!"
★★★★★
"Just finished a wonderful Anca/ Allora'Scapes Croatian vacation! I need to rate it a 10 out of 5! My favorite trip so far!!!!"
★★★★★
"Allora'Scapes put together a fantastic trip! Everything was AMAZING!!!"
