Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast with Smithsonian Journeys

Itinerary Highlights

Explore the Dalmatian Coast on an eight-day cruise with expert-led insights and curated activities
Sail aboard Le Bougainville with Smithsonian Journeys, enjoying talks and guided port excursions
Discover Rovinj, Zadar, Primošten and Split through historic tours, wine tastings and much more
Experience Hvar, Korcula, Mljet, Kotor and Dubrovnik with their host of intriguing local traditions

Facilities

All-Inclusive
Bar
Gym
Restaurant
Spa
Swimming Pool

7 nights from £5,199 per person
9 - 16 July 2026

Nicola

Travel Specialist

01244 435 293

These voyages are a small taste of what we offer. Contact our Cruise Specialists for bespoke suggestions and post-cruise options

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Discover the dazzling Dalmatian Coast on this expert-led Adriatic cruise, shaped by cultural insight, considered shore experiences and a relaxed pace you’ll get to enjoy over the course of eight days.

Created in alliance with Smithsonian Journeys, this carefully curated voyage along Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast is designed for travellers who value cultural depth, expert insight and unhurried exploration. Sail aboard Le Bougainville with PONANT, travelling with a like-minded, English-speaking group, and benefit from an experience that goes well beyond the ship itself. Your voyage includes transfers and expert-led talks on board in addition to a shore activity in every port, all designed to deepen your understanding of the places you visit.

Covering less than 350 nautical miles from Venice to Dubrovnik, this itinerary allows generous time ashore and a relaxed pace between destinations. Days unfold with guided touring and time to follow your own interests. In Rovinj, why not delve into the town’s Venetian past? Or spend time sampling Istrian wines. In Zadar, choose between exploring Roman ruins and medieval churches, or heading out to the Kornati Archipelago for a closer look at its uninhabited islands and marine life.

Continue to Primošten and Krka National Park, before spending extended time in Split, where Diocletian’s Palace forms the living heart of the city and late docking allows you to stay ashore into the evening. On Hvar, choose between exploring the historic streets of Stari Grad or visiting a lavender farm in the countryside. Korcula introduces medieval lanes and a traditional Moreška sword dance, followed by time in Mljet National Park.

Sailing into the Bay of Kotor is a highlight, with a full day to explore Montenegro’s historic town or relax by the sea. Your journey concludes in Dubrovnik, one of Europe’s most complete medieval cities, offering a fitting finale to a voyage shaped by history, landscape and expert perspective.

Itinerary

Day 1 | 9 July 2026 | Fly UK to Venice & Embark Le Bougainville

Fly from the UK to Venice, arriving in time to embark Le Bougainville later this afternoon. If time allows, explore the city at your own pace before boarding. Venice has stood on its lagoon since the 6th century, shaped by centuries of trade, art and power. You may wish to visit St Mark’s Square, the Basilica and Doge’s Palace, or wander quieter backstreets and canals away from the crowds. Pause for a spritz and traditional tramezzini before returning to the ship and departing for Rovinj.

Day 2 | 10 July 2026 | Rovinj

Rovinj

Arrive in Rovinj midday and go ashore to explore this historic town on the Istrian Peninsula, close to the Slovenian border. Venetian influence is clear throughout the old centre, from the Balbi Arch to the bell tower beside St Euphemia Cathedral, modelled on St Mark’s in Venice. You can choose from three included excursions. Options include a guided walking tour of Rovinj and its cathedral, where narrow streets, frescoed buildings and Baroque architecture reflect centuries of Venetian rule, or alternative food- and wine-focused experiences in the surrounding region.

Day 3 | 11 July 2026 | Zadar

Zadar

Today, you’re based in Zadar, where the fortified old town occupies a narrow peninsula. History reveals itself at every turn, from the remains of a Roman forum to Byzantine and Venetian-era landmarks. Choose from three included excursions. One option is a guided walking tour of the Old City, beginning at the Roman Forum and continuing to the Church of St Donatus and Cathedral of St Anastasia. You’ll also visit the Gold and Silver Museum before a tasting of Maraschino liqueur.

Day 4 | 12 July 2026 | Primošten & Split

Split

Explore Primošten, a peninsula town shaped by centuries of Venetian influence. You can choose from two included excursions, one of which takes you inland to Krka National Park for a guided walk. Then continue through the countryside to Stankovci for a visit to a Dalmatian prosciutto estate, enjoying a taste of local specialities, before returning to the ship in Split in the evening. Alternatively, remain on board as Le Bougainville sails to Split, arriving around midday. This afternoon, explore Split’s UNESCO-listed historic centre and Diocletian’s Palace at your own pace.

Day 5 | 13 July 2026 | Hvar

Hvar

Anchor down in Hvar, a fertile island known for its historic towns and aromatic fields. Choose from three included excursions, including a guided walking tour of Stari Grad, the island’s UNESCO-listed principal town. Explore Venetian-style architecture, the 17th-century Municipal Theatre, St. Stephen’s Square and the Franciscan Monastery, with its museum and remarkable Last Supper painting. Visit the Benedictine Cloister to see traditional lacemaking and the 17th-century Arsenal.

Day 6 | 14 July 2026 | Korcula & Mljet

Mljet

Early this morning, you’ll reach Korcula. This medieval harbour town is perched on a spur overlooking the Pelješac Peninsula, where you can visit the house where Marco Polo was born. Choose from two included excursions, such as a performance of the traditional Moreška Sword Dance, a ritualised battle telling the story of the Red and Black Kings. In the early afternoon, cruise to Mljet Island, celebrated for its national park, saltwater lakes and protected forests. Take a self-guided tour of Mljet National Park, walking to Veliko Jezero and St Mary’s Island.

Day 7 | 15 July 2026 | Kotor

Kotor

Kotor is the destination for today, a UNESCO-listed medieval town nestled in one of Montenegro’s most dramatic bays. Wander narrow streets or admire the castle that overlooks the town. Choose from three included excursions, such as a guided walking tour of Kotor’s Old Town and a visit to the Romanesque Cathedral of Saint Tryphon. You’ll then continue to the Maritime Museum to explore the town’s naval traditions, or visit the Lapidarium, where architectural fragments trace Kotor’s past.

Day 8 | 16 July 2026 | Disembark in Dubrovnik & Departure

Dubrovnik

Disembark in Dubrovnik this morning and transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK. Alternatively, extend your holiday to explore the UNESCO-listed city. Perched on a rocky spur, Dubrovnik’s historic streets, travertine houses and city walls tell the story of centuries of maritime power. Walk along La Placa, admire the ramparts and visit Fort Saint John, which is home to its maritime museum and Adriatic aquarium. Speak with one of our Travel Specialists to personalise a post-cruise stay and discover more of Dubrovnik’s remarkable history.