While Croatia has been gaining popularity in recent years, few offer such immersive and comprehensive cruise itineraries as in-destination experts Katarina Line. Based in Opatija, a coastal town on the Adriatic less than 50 miles from Italy, Katarina Line knows Croatia in and out, and offers guests unique voyages across a fleet of 60 vessels.
New for 2022, “Breathtaking Croatia” spends seven nights on a country-intensive sailing between Split and Opatija, with calls on Zadar, the coastal towns of Primošten and Pula, and the islands of Hvar, Vis, Lošinj, and Kornati National Park, which is comprised of more than 100 islands. Walking tours will help visitors explore their surroundings, with a special visit to one of Opatija’s “choco bars” known for tasty local coffee, cakes, and ice cream. An excursion to Brijuni National Park is a special opportunity for guests to soak in the beauty of this protected archipelago near the Istria Peninsula consisting of 14 islands, more than 680 local and exotic plants, and 150 bird species.
For a closer look at the Istria Peninsula — Croatia’s largest peninsula — Katarina Line offers an exclusive four-day land tour called “Istrian Rooftops” that brings guests to the idyllic hilltop villages of Istria to experience its unique culture. This stretch of land shares borders with Italy and Slovenia and is situated between the Gulf of Trieste and the Kvarner Gulf on the Adriatic. Directly across from Venice, Istria is heavily influenced by Italian architecture and traditions, which guests can experience on their journey between Zagreb and Split, with stops in Opatija and the Istrian cities of Motovun, Rovinj and Pula. Highlights include a guided tour of Zagreb; a visit to the 1st century Arena of Pula amphitheater, where gladiators once battled; wine tasting at a local hotel and winery, as well as a truffles-themed dinner in Motovun.
“Istrian Rooftops reflects Katarina Line’s continued efforts to immerse travelers in the history and culture of the picturesque towns, islands, and natural wonders of Croatia, some of which have been designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites,” according to Daniel Hauptfeld, marketing director for Katarina Line. “This unique tour takes travelers on a romantic exploration of Istria that includes tastings of its olive oils and truffle — specialties considered on par, and some might even say superior, to those of Tuscany.”
Katarina Line operates a variety of itineraries from late April through mid-October, annually, and travel agents account for 98 percent of all bookings worldwide. Their vessels are a minimum of 150 feet in length, with less than 40 passengers onboard each sailing. Features include an outdoor lounge and sun deck, complete with hot tub.
“There is a reason that Croatia has been such a popular vacation destination for centuries,” said Hauptfeld. “Our cruises offer guests the unique opportunity to explore Croatia’s history, architecture, and natural wonders by sea and through inland excursions that reveal the true beauty, culture, and ancient wonders of Croatia.”
