Croatia and Montenegro Unlock Hidden Adriatic Treasures as Variety Cruises Launches New Island-Hopping Voyages in 2027

Croatia and Montenegro are ready to show more of their Adriatic treasures in April 2027. Variety Cruises will begin a seven‑night island‑hopping trip that is meant to carry travellers past the usual tourist spots. The trip, called “Croatia Island‑Hopping & Montenegro” will run every week from the city of Dubrovnik aboard the 34‑passenger ship Callisto. It will link Croatian islands like Vis, Lastovo and Mljet with the beautiful Bay of Kotor in Montenegro. The new cruise wants to give a travel experience by mixing quiet coast places, old towns, real cultural moments and Mediterranean food. Prices start at US$2,190, for each person. This plan will let travellers see the beauty and sea history of Croatia and Montenegro on a close small‑ship journey.
Dubrovnik Becomes the Gateway to a New Adriatic Island Adventure
Dubrovnik will serve as the starting and finishing point for the new cruise, providing convenient access to some of the Adriatic’s most distinctive coastal destinations.
The itinerary brings together Croatia’s popular maritime attractions and quieter islands that offer a different perspective on the country’s tourism landscape.
Rather than concentrating exclusively on major tourist centres, the seven-night programme includes Vis, Lastovo, Mljet and Hvar.
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Each destination introduces different elements of Croatian island life, from traditional settlements to protected natural environments.
Weekly departures beginning in April 2027 will offer passengers a new opportunity to explore these destinations.
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Croatia’s Hidden Islands Take Centre Stage in the Seven-Night Voyage
Vis, Lastovo and Mljet feature prominently in the itinerary, highlighting the diversity of Croatia’s island destinations.
Vis captivates visitors with its scenic shores and rich seafaring heritage, while Lastovo offers a peaceful island escape surrounded by unspoilt landscapes and charming traditional seaside villages.
Mljet provides another distinctive experience through its protected landscapes and national park.
Hvar complements these destinations with its historic architecture, island culture and Mediterranean atmosphere.
Together, the islands create a varied travel experience that extends beyond conventional coastal sightseeing.
The programme combines established visitor attractions with less-frequented locations, offering a broader introduction to Croatia’s Adriatic heritage.
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Montenegro’s Spectacular Bay of Kotor Expands the Journey Beyond Croatia
The addition of Montenegro introduces a second country to the week-long cruise.
The voyage will take travellers into Montenegro’s breathtaking Bay of Kotor, where towering mountain ranges rise above calm Adriatic waters, framing centuries-old coastal towns and creating a spectacular setting rich in natural beauty and historical charm.
A guided visit to Kotor forms part of the itinerary, providing opportunities to discover the town’s architectural heritage and cultural attractions.
Optional experiences also include visits to traditional villages in Montenegro.
The combination of Croatian islands and Montenegrin coastal communities creates a cross-border itinerary that connects natural landscapes, historic destinations and regional traditions within one voyage.
Guided Cultural Experiences Bring Adriatic Traditions Closer to Travellers
The cruise package includes four organised excursions covering Dubrovnik Old Town, Mljet National Park, Hvar and Kotor.
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These visits introduce passengers to important historical sites, protected landscapes and distinctive coastal communities.
Additional cultural experiences include regional wine tastings and cooking or cocktail demonstrations.
Passengers can also explore traditional Croatian taverns, known as konobas, through optional evening experiences.
The activities offer different ways to discover the cuisine, customs and local heritage of the destinations visited.
By combining organised excursions with optional independent experiences, the itinerary provides opportunities for both structured sightseeing and more flexible destination exploration.
Mediterranean Dining and Swimming Experiences Add Value to the Voyage
The seven-night sailing includes 14 onboard meals inspired by Mediterranean and regional culinary traditions.
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Wine, beer and soft drinks accompany onboard lunches and dinners, while complimentary Wi-Fi is provided throughout the journey.
Outdoor recreation is another important feature of the programme.
Through Variety Swim Experiences, guests can enter the Adriatic’s clear waters directly from the ship during designated swimming stops in secluded bays.
Complimentary kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and snorkelling equipment are also available.
These activities combine leisure, adventure and coastal exploration, adding variety to the cultural and sightseeing elements of the itinerary.
Small-Ship Cruising Opens Fresh Opportunities for Adriatic Tourism in 2027
With space for just 34 guests, Callisto offers a more intimate alternative to large-scale Mediterranean cruises.
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The vessel’s limited passenger capacity supports a destination-focused itinerary combining island visits, guided activities and outdoor experiences.
Starting from US$2,190 per person, the new programme brings together accommodation aboard the vessel, 14 meals, four guided excursions and selected recreational activities.
Beginning in April 2027, the weekly Dubrovnik round-trip sailings will expand Variety Cruises’ presence in the Adriatic market.
The new itinerary connects Croatia’s scenic islands with Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor, creating another option for travellers seeking a culturally rich Mediterranean holiday.
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