Discovering Croatia: A Travel Expert Talks Small Ship Cruises
The azure waters of Croatia have long beckoned travellers, but a fresh, intimate way to experience its wonders is emerging. We sat down with travel expert Tina Music to talk about why small ship cruises are becoming the top choice for exploring the Adriatic.
Tina, people often hear about "mini cruisers." How are these ships actually categorized?
"It is quite similar to the hotel industry. Ships are categorized into different classes based on the quality of service, vessel age, and onboard amenities. While it can sometimes be hard to see the difference at first glance, it really comes down to the level of luxury and space you're looking for."
Can you walk us through the main differences between the ship categories?
"Of course. We generally divide them into three main groups:
- Standard & Standard Superior: These are the classic vessels, typically 29-41 meters long. They offer a very authentic nautical feel with modern, air-conditioned cabins. It's perfect for those who want comfort without the price tag of a high-end luxury yacht.
- Deluxe: These are larger, modern ships (up to 47 meters). The standout feature here is the sun deck—most have hot tubs and much more lounging space.
- Deluxe Superior: This is the pinnacle of the fleet. These recently built vessels embody luxury in a more compact, intimate package. The cabins are spacious, often up to 17 square meters, with premium finishes."
Where do these routes usually take travellers?
"Dalmatia is still the star of the show. Most people want to see Split, Dubrovnik, and Hvar. However, I always tell guests not to overlook the Kvarner Gulf or the pristine Kornati islands. Most of our itineraries depart from key hubs like Split or Opatija, which makes the logistics very simple for international travellers."
What does a typical day look like once you're on board?
"That's the best part—it's the perfect mix of activity and relaxation. Unlike large liners, we dock right in the heart of the town promenade. You step off the ship, and you're immediately in the center of the action.
A typical day starts with breakfast as we cruise toward a new island. We usually stop in the morning for a swim in a secluded bay, places that are often inaccessible by road. After a relaxed lunch on board, the afternoon is for more swimming or exploring a historic town. In the evenings, the ship stays in port overnight, so guests have total freedom to enjoy the local dining and nightlife."
Is this type of travel suitable for everyone? Are there any "insider" tips guests should know?
"I get asked this a lot! These cruises are much more social than mega-liners. You're with 30 to 40 people, and by the middle of the week, everyone knows each other—especially after the Captain's Dinner.
As for tips: remember that you're on a ship. If you're a very light sleeper, I always suggest bringing earplugs, as the engines usually start early in the morning to get us to the next stunning location. Also, while many think this is just a 'retirement' style of travel, it's actually very popular with active couples and families. Just book early, as family-sized cabins are limited."
Finally, what should people definitely pack for their Croatian cruise?
"Keep it light! You'll spend most of your time in swimwear and breathable clothing. Definitely bring comfortable walking shoes for those historic cobblestone streets. I also recommend a diving mask for the swim stops and, of course, a camera or drone. The views of the Dalmatian coast from the sea are something you'll want to remember forever."