Cruise Croatia has announced a new seven-night ‘Opatija to Dubrovnik Deluxe Balcony Cruise’ for 2024.   The specialist, luxury, small-ship cruise operator will offer four departures dates, between June and September, on the 36-guest MS My Wish.   The itinerary, on sale now, gives guests the opportunity to discover the extended Croatian coastline, sailing to or from the lesser-known port of Opatija to Dubrovnik. The cruise will connect four archipelagos, through the untouched Kvarner and Kornati Islands, which make up the Northern Dalmatian coast, and the more popular Pakleni and Elaphiti Islands in the south.   Calls will be made to the iconic cities of Zadar, Split and Dubrovnik, with island hopping taking in Hvar and Korcula. All excursions are included, with guests being treated to a visit to the spectacular waterfalls of Krka National Park, along with wine tasting at an underground family winery in Hvar, plus a host of other cultural tours.   The My Wish yacht, launched in 2020, offers deluxe accommodation across 18 ensuite guest cabins, many of which feature their own private balconies. She features a top-deck hot tub, spacious sundeck and swimming platform, while boasting a 1:4 crew to guest ratio.   All itineraries include luxury transfers, breakfast, three-course lunches and select dinners. A programme of guided tours and visits, daily swim stops, complimentary water sports, a professional Cruise Director and on-board lectures are also available. Prices start from £2,195 per person.   Cruise Croatia offers pre- and post-cruise extensions for guests to explore the region of Istria - referred to as the Tuscany of Croatia - with its rolling hills, medieval villages and family-run vineyards.   Graham Carter, Chief Commercial Officer at Cruise Croatia, said: “This itinerary promises an unforgettable, intimate adventure of the spectacular Dalmatian coast. Sailing from Opatija to Dubrovnik gives access to an untouched part of the Croatian coast, which we are keen to introduce our guests to. Led by local guides, guests will get to know each destination in-depth, while the fabulous facilities on My Wish means travel time can be spent in luxurious comfort.”   Cruise Croatia is offering a total of 144 luxury Croatia departures, across 10 itineraries, in 2024. Opatija to Dubrovnik is one of four new routes.  

Croatia is the newest member of the border-free Schengen zone. It replaces the Croatia kuna with the euro. It became an EU' member in 2013. Croatia is the 27th country of the Schengen zone. EC President Ursula von der Leyen called it a ‘historic’ moment. Croatia has ‘achieved its strategic, state and political goals’ Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic said. It ‘means a lot for Croatia as a tourist country’ the PM said.