Boutique island-hopping cruises · Croatia 2027

Croatia Small Ship Cruises 2027

Explore the Adriatic on a 7-night boutique cruise between Split and Dubrovnik, aboard carefully selected small ships carrying up to 38 guests.

7 nights
Weekly cruises
Up to 38 guests
Boutique ships
April–October
2027 season
From €1,190
Per person

A more personal way to see Croatia

Find the Right Croatia Small Ship Cruise

Croatia small ship cruises combine island-hopping, daily swim stops and historic coastal towns without the crowds of a large cruise ship. Unpack once and travel between Split and Dubrovnik while visiting islands such as Brač, Hvar, Korčula and Mljet.

This page helps you choose the right direction and cruise style. The two routes visit essentially the same islands and coastal highlights, but sail in opposite directions. The detailed route pages contain the complete 2027 selection, including available ships, itineraries, departure dates, cabin prices, photographs and inclusions.

Choose your direction

Croatia Small Ship Cruise Routes for 2027

The routes visit essentially the same islands and highlights; the main difference is the direction of travel. Choose according to your flights, hotel plans and whether you prefer to start in Split or Dubrovnik.

Small ship cruise from Split to Dubrovnik passing Zlatni Rat beach on Brač

7-night route

Split → Dubrovnik

Best for: guests arriving in Split and continuing their holiday from Dubrovnik.

Direction: the cruise starts in Split and ends in Dubrovnik, visiting the main islands and highlights along the way.

Full offer: ships, departure dates, cabin prices, itineraries and photographs.

Boutique small ship sailing from Dubrovnik to Split in Croatia

7-night route

Dubrovnik → Split

Best for: guests starting in Dubrovnik and continuing their holiday from Split.

Direction: the cruise covers essentially the same region in reverse, starting in Dubrovnik and ending in Split.

Full offer: ships, departure dates, cabin prices, itineraries and photographs.

Save Up to 20% on Selected 2027 Cruises

Early Booking Discounts apply to selected departures aboard Ambassador, Mama Marija II, Princess, Mama Marija, Summer, Invictus, Elixir and Splendid. Discounts vary by ship and departure date and are subject to availability.

At a glance

What to Expect on a Croatia Small Ship Cruise

Duration

Most cruises operate for 7 nights, with weekly departures.

Ship size

Boutique ships generally accommodate no more than 38 guests.

2027 season

Departures are available from April through October.

Travel style

Island visits, swim stops and time to explore coastal towns.

Comfort and budget

Choose Your Small Ship Cruise Style

The exact ship matters more than the label alone. Ivana can explain the differences in cabin position, ship layout, comfort and inclusions before you book.

Affordable

Comfortable accommodation, attractive itineraries and strong value for travelers prioritizing the route and experience.

Deluxe

A refined small ship experience with stylish interiors and a strong balance between comfort and price.

Luxury

Premium accommodation, elegant public spaces and the highest level of onboard comfort in the selection.

Cruising with children

Croatia Small Ship Cruises for Families

Families are welcome on all of our Croatia small ship cruises. Ships offer reduced rates for children, and some have cabins that accommodate three guests—an especially practical option for parents traveling with one child.

Child discounts, minimum ages and triple-cabin availability vary by ship and departure. Ivana can identify the most suitable family options and explain the exact conditions before you book.

2027 price guide

How Much Does a Croatia Small Ship Cruise Cost?

For 2027, Croatia small ship cruise prices range from €1,190 to €4,850 per person for 7 nights, depending on the departure date, ship category and cabin position.

  • Lower Deck cabins are generally the most affordable.
  • Main Deck and VIP cabins usually cost more because of their position and added comfort.
  • July and August are normally the highest-demand months.
  • Spring and autumn departures often offer better value and a quieter atmosphere.
  • Children may receive an additional discount on selected ships and departures.

Know before you book

What Is Usually Included?

Inclusions differ between ships, so always check the exact program before booking. Most Croatia small ship cruises include:

  • 7 nights of accommodation in the selected cabin
  • Daily breakfast and selected lunches
  • A captain’s dinner or another special onboard meal
  • A planned island-hopping itinerary with swim stops
  • Professional captain and crew
  • Selected guided tours or experiences, depending on the program

Check the exact inclusions

Port fees, tourist taxes, entrance tickets, transfers and drinks may be included, charged separately or vary by cruise. Each detailed route listing explains the applicable conditions.

April to October

Best Time for a Croatia Small Ship Cruise

April & May

Quieter towns, spring scenery and attractive early-season value.

June

Warm weather and swimming with a lively atmosphere before peak season.

July & August

The warmest weather, active island towns and the highest demand.

September & October

A warm sea, fewer crowds and excellent late-season value.

The onboard experience

Life on Board a Small Ship in Croatia

Days are built around relaxed cruising, swimming in clear Adriatic bays and visiting a different island town or harbor. Instead of packing and changing hotels, your cabin travels with you while the crew manages navigation and the daily program.

The atmosphere is social but more personal than on a large cruise ship. There is time to enjoy the sundeck, meet fellow travelers, explore ashore and experience Croatia at a slower pace.

Who is it best for?

Small ship cruises are especially popular with couples, friends and mature travelers who want an easy island-hopping holiday with a planned route and a friendly onboard atmosphere.

Local guidance since 2008

Why Book Your Croatia Cruise With Ivana?

A good cruise match depends on more than the itinerary. Ivana helps you compare ships, cabin positions, dates, inclusions and onboard atmosphere, then recommends the options that best fit your budget and travel plans.

Local knowledge

Personal guidance from a Croatia-based cruise specialist.

Carefully selected ships

Options across different comfort levels and budgets.

Cabin advice

Help comparing deck position, layout, comfort and price.

Personal support

One contact for questions before and during the booking process.

Independent guest feedback

Read Experiences From Our Guests

See feedback from travelers who arranged their Croatia cruise with Polaris Yachting and independent reviews published on TripAdvisor.

Frequently asked questions

Croatia Small Ship Cruises 2027 FAQ

Are small ship cruises in Croatia worth it?

They are an excellent choice for travelers who want island-hopping, regular swim stops and access to smaller Croatian harbors in a more personal atmosphere than a large cruise ship.

How long do Croatia small ship cruises last?

Most cruises in this selection last 7 nights and operate weekly from April through October 2027.

Which route is better: Split to Dubrovnik or Dubrovnik to Split?

The routes visit essentially the same islands and coastal highlights, but in opposite directions. The better choice normally depends on your flights, accommodation plans and whether you prefer to begin in Split or Dubrovnik.

How much does a Croatia small ship cruise cost in 2027?

Current 2027 prices range from €1,190 to €4,850 per person for 7 nights, depending on the departure date, ship category and cabin position.

How many guests travel on these ships?

The boutique ships in this selection generally carry up to 38 guests, creating a more relaxed and personal onboard environment.

What is usually included in the cruise price?

Most programs include onboard accommodation, daily breakfast, selected lunches, a captain’s dinner or special meal, crew service and a planned island-hopping itinerary. Exact inclusions vary and are listed on the detailed route pages.

When should I book a 2027 Croatia cruise?

Book as early as possible if you need a particular date, cabin position or ship. Popular summer departures and preferred cabins usually have the most limited availability.

Can Ivana help me choose a ship and cabin?

Yes. Send your preferred dates, route, number of travelers, budget and cabin preferences, and Ivana will recommend the most suitable currently available options.

Are Croatia small ship cruises suitable for families with children?

Yes. All departures welcome families, and ships offer additional child discounts, and some ships have cabins for three guests. Conditions and cabin availability vary, so send the children’s ages when requesting a recommendation.

Personal 2027 cruise recommendation

Let’s Find Your Best Croatia Small Ship Cruise

Send your preferred dates, route, number of travelers, budget and cabin preferences. Ivana will compare the current 2027 ships and help you choose the right cruise.