Croatia and Montenegro In Depth

Arrive in Dubrovnik, the renowned 'Pearl of the Adriatic'. Be transferred to your floating home for the next 13 nights, the brand-new cruising yacht MV Lady Eleganza. Designed and built in Croatia for the Adriatic Coast, it is perfect for nestling into the region's small harbours and sheltered coves. Stay 13 Nights: MV Lady Eleganza (D)

Explore Dubrovnik's World Heritage Old Town in the morning. Wander the palaces, monasteries and churches all enclosed within the medieval city walls. Later, you weigh anchor and enjoy views of the memorable setting as you sail towards Montenegro and the Bay of Kotor. Sailing into the bay, framed by sheer cliffs that hug the walled town of Kotor, is a highlight. This evening, enjoy a guided tour of the town. (B/L/D)

Set sail for the Elaphiti Islands off the coast. This small cluster of islands offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of the more populated destinations along the Croatian coast. En route to the islands, stop for a swim from the yacht's stern platform. Just three of the 14 islands are inhabited, including Lopud, which is car-free, which makes for fantastic on-foot explorations. (B/L/D)

Signature Experiences:

• This evening, enjoy a walking tour around Lopud, then toast the spectacular views from the old fort with a glass of champagne.

Lopud is renowned for its pristine golden beaches, and Sunj is the most celebrated beach of them all. If you're feeling energetic, embark on a two-hour walk across the island, with the reward of superb views and a refreshing swim. Meanwhile, the Lady Eleganza will cruise ahead to meet the walkers at the end point, with those remaining on board enjoying postcard-perfect island views. Later, arrive in Korcula, the birthplace of Marco Polo. Here, stroll along medieval streets which are flanked by palaces and take in a special Signature Experience. Your yacht will dock here overnight. (B/L/D)

Signature Experiences:

• Witness an exclusive Moreska performance. This traditional sword dance dates back centuries and involves two groups of dancers representing opposing kingdoms engaging in battle to win over the heart of the King's fiance.

The picturesque town of Opuzen lies upstream on the Neretva River. After lunch, travel by coach over the border to Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina. See the World Heritage Stari Most ('Old Bridge') which arches high above the Neretva. Learn about the history of the bridge on a walking tour, as well as Mostar's other fascinating sites. Dinner will be in a local restaurant with traditional entertainment. (B/L/D)

The morning kicks off with a cruise to the island of Brac. Make a beeline for the town of Bol, home to the Zlatni Rat ('Golden Cape'). This beach is made up of tiny white pebbles that shift with the vagaries of the wind and waves, and meets the sea like a spearhead. During your time here, you might like the chance to take a dip or explore the town, which is known for its 15th-century Dominican monastery and museum. (B/L/D)

This morning, board small boats for an excursion along the emerald green Cetina River. Head towards Radmanove Mlinice (Radman's Mills). The stone mill was established in 1772 to grind cereal for the people of Omis. In the early afternoon, Lady Eleganza sets sails for Split. Upon arrival, take an evening walk around this historic city and admire the Roman-era landmarks. (B/L/D)

Farewell Split and set sail for Sibenik, a historic port town, where a Signature Experience awaits. (B/L/D)

Signature Experiences:

• At the village of Radosic, be welcomed with local brandy and doughnuts and enjoy traditional entertainment before a meal of regional specialties.

Today, visit the spectacular Krka National Park. Spend the morning strolling along boardwalks to view Krka's famous waterfalls. The most memorable is Skradinski buk, which is made up of scores of separate cascades. Afterwards, Lady Eleganza sails to Zadar. Located on a small peninsula, Zadar retains an impressive core of Roman ruins as well as some surprising modern touches. Your yacht will remain docked here overnight. (B/L/D)

Relax as your yacht sails towards Losinj island. Take a walking tour of the main town, Mali Losinj, and admire the pastel-coloured villas lined up along the waterfront. You also have the opportunity to experience local life and visit a buzzing cafe or tavern after your dinner on board. (B/L/D)

Today's destination, Opatija, is a town of splendid Habsburg-era villas dating from its time as a fashionable 19th-century resort. Its long main promenade, known as the Lungomare, is lined with imposing homes with a backdrop of densely forested hills. (B/L/D)

This morning, Lady Eleganza charts a course for Pula. Located on the tip of the Istrian Peninsula, Pula is a treasure trove of Roman ruins. Later this afternoon, visit the remarkably preserved Arena. Built in the first century AD, it housed up to 23,000 spectators who watched deadly gladiatorial battles. The Arena is the only remaining Roman amphitheatre in existence to have all four walls entirely preserved. (B/L/D)

Your journey continues in Rovinj. On arrival, join a walking tour which includes the 18th-century Venetian-style church, dedicated to the martyred saint whose sarcophagus is said to have been miraculously washed ashore here around 800AD. (B/L/D)

After breakfast, it is time to bid a fond farewell to the MV Lady Eleganza. You will be transferred to Zagreb Airport for your onward flight. (B)