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Join us for an eight night exploration of the beautiful Istrian coast combined with a visit to the region’s bucolic interior and some charming islands. Croatia’s Istrian coast and Kvarner Bay offer some of the world’s most beautiful coastal scenery, picturesque islands and a wonderfully tranquil and peaceful atmosphere. The 36-passenger Queen Eleganza is the perfect vessel for our journey allowing us to moor centrally in towns and call into secluded bays, enabling us to fully discover all the region has to offer and to visit some marvellous places which do not cater for the big ships along the way.

Our island calls will include Cres with its Italian influence and scenic Medieval harbour, Pula where we will visit one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheatres and Rab with its picturesque Old Town. We will also travel inland to an area of disarming beauty characterised by fertile valleys with hilltop villages. Here we explore the village of Motovun, in the middle of truffle territory, which has arguably the best views of the Istrian interior from its ramparts. As we make our way along the coast we will discover more remote, uncrowded spots such as Losinj, a classic Adriatic island which is still relatively unspoilt and the flower-filled island of Ilovik before arriving in Zadar where we have time to explore this historic city.

Istria is often acclaimed for its gastronomy and we will experience the local cuisine as well as a visit to a vineyard to taste the wines typical of the area. Each night we will remain moored in the picturesque harbours affording the opportunity to dine ashore on some evenings and to enjoy the floodlit splendour and lively café society which is so atmospheric. For those who enjoy cruising amongst scenic waterways, swimming in clear blue waters and exploring Medieval harbours and picturesque villages with a small group of like-minded travellers, this journey will surely appeal.

Day 1 London to Opatjia, Croatia.

Fly by scheduled flight to Zagreb. On arrival transfer to the Queen Eleganza in Opatija. Enjoy our welcome dinner on board this evening as we moor overnight. (D)

Day 2 Cres.

During breakfast we will cruise to the nearby island of Cres, mooring in the sheltered scenic Medieval harbour at Cres Town. Enjoy a walk through the atmospheric streets which have a strong Italian feel having been under Venetian rule in the 15th and 16th centuries. We will continue to the former fort city of Lubenice. Situated on a cliff 378 metres above the sea we will explore the fortress, city gates, houses, chapels and winding streets of this evocative site and enjoy the stunning views over the bay below. Dine ashore this evening and perhaps take a stroll along the seaside promenade. (B, L)

Day 3 Rovinj.

Sail today to the atmospheric town of Rovinj where the houses inside the old town are small and lean into each other creating a unique atmosphere. Our guided walking tour will include a visit to the town’s main landmark, St Euphemia Church, which is built on the top of a small hill. This Baroque building built in Venetian style was dedicated to the saint and martyr whose sarcophagus, according to a legend, was miraculously washed ashore sometime around 800 AD. Take the opportunity to dine ashore this evening in one of the delightful local restaurants. (B, L)

Day 4 Porec for Motovun & Momjan.

After a short sail to Porec we will travel to the Istrian interior, an area famed for its picturesque villages, vineyards producing fine Malvasia and Teran wines and the forests that produce Istrian white truffles. On a morning walking tour we will explore Motovun which is perched on a hill in the Mirna River Valley with its Romanesque-Gothic bell tower, the Renaissance Church of St Stephen, designed by Andrea Palladio, and the charming central square. After a lunch of local specialities, including sampling the olive oil, we will head into the agricultural area around Momjan where some of Croatia’s finest olives and vines have been grown for thousands of years. We will visit a local vineyard and enjoy a tasting of wines which are typical of the region. Return to the ship for dinner on board. (B, L, D)

Day 5 Porec & Pula.

On a morning walking tour of Porec we will discover the compact old town including the 6th century Euphrasian Basilica, a World Heritage Site and one of Europe’s finest intact examples of Byzantine art. The basilica, atrium, baptistery and episcopal palace are outstanding examples of religious architecture. Return to the ship late morning and set sail. This afternoon we arrive at the tip of the Istrian Peninsula and the former Roman settlement of Polensium, now known as Pula. On our walking tour we will discover one of the best preserved Roman amphitheatres left in the world. The Arena, built in the 1st century AD was designed to host gladiatorial contests with seating for up to 20,000 spectators. Exploring the town further we will see the varied architecture from Baroque palaces, Christian churches and Austrian villas. Dine ashore this evening in one of the charming local restaurants. (B, L)

Day 6 Mali Losinj.

Spend the morning cruising and take the opportunity for a swim before arriving at Mali Losinj which sits at the foot of a protected harbour on the southeast coast of Losinj Island. It is the island’s mild climate and rich flora that give Mali Losinj its reputation as one of the most fragrant islands in Croatia; its air is scented with lavender, sage and rosemary. The seafront of the old town is lined with a string of imposing 19th century houses and villas and is a pleasant place to wander. This evening dinner will be served on board. (B, L, D)

Day 7 Ilovik & Rab.

Cruise this morning to Ilovik. Known as the island of flowers with oleander, palms and roses growing around every house and with only 170 residents, Ilovik is well off the traditional tourist route. We will stop for a wander or a swim before sailing to Rab. A late afternoon walking tour will take us through the picturesque Old Town, a perfectly preserved late Medieval Adriatic settlement squeezed into a slender peninsula along which are dotted a sequence of Romanesque campaniles. This evening you can sample one of the many local restaurants. (B, L)

Day 8 Zadar.

After a morning sailing we arrive at Zadar. Once a dominant city on the Adriatic Coast rivalling Venice, Zadar is today a treasured city that has preserved its historical core. Enjoy an afternoon walking tour strolling around the old town with its Roman columns and portals, Romanesque churches and Renaissance and Baroque palaces. Of particular interest are the 9th century circular Church of St Donat and the 13th century Romanesque cathedral. Enjoy our farewell dinner on board this evening. (B, L, D)

Day 9 Zadar to London.

Disembark this morning and transfer to Split Airport for our scheduled flight to London. (B)

Please Note:

Itineraries are subject to change.

05 May, 2024 to 13 May, 2024
ship icon Queen Eleganza
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Category 1

£3,495 GBP pp
Category 1
Twin/Double cabin on the Lower Deck - 17m2. All cabins are finished to the highest standard with sleek lines and neutral colours. All are equipped with an en-suite bathroom with shower, safe, air conditioning/heating, hairdryer and flat screen TV. Most cabins also feature a dressing table and chair. The cabins on the Lower Deck all have two portholes.

Category 2

£3,495 GBP pp
Category 2
Twin Cabin on the Main Deck - 12m2. All cabins are finished to the highest standard with sleek lines and neutral colours. All are equipped with an en-suite bathroom with shower, safe, air conditioning/heating, hairdryer and flat screen TV. Most cabins also feature a dressing table and chair. The category 2 cabins on the Main Deck benefit from a large picture window offering wonderful views.

Category 6 Sole

£3,495 GBP pp
Category 6 Sole
Double cabin on the Lower Deck for sole use - 15m2. All cabins are finished to the highest standard with sleek lines and neutral colours. All are equipped with an en-suite bathroom with shower, safe, air conditioning/heating, hairdryer and flat screen TV. Most cabins also feature a dressing table and chair. The cabins on the Lower Deck all have two portholes.

Category 3

£3,795 GBP pp
Category 3
Twin Cabin on the Main Deck - 14.5m2. All cabins are finished to the highest standard with sleek lines and neutral colours. All are equipped with an en-suite bathroom with shower, safe, air conditioning/heating, hairdryer and flat screen TV. Most cabins also feature a dressing table and chair. The category 3 cabins have three portholes.

Category 4

£4,095 GBP pp
Category 4
Twin/Double cabin on the Main Deck - 15m2. All cabins are finished to the highest standard with sleek lines and neutral colours. All are equipped with an en-suite bathroom with shower, safe, air conditioning/heating, hairdryer and flat screen TV. Most cabins also feature a dressing table and chair. The category 4 cabins on the Main Deck benefit from a large picture window offering wonderful views.

Category 5

£4,495 GBP pp
Category 5
Double cabin on the Main Deck - 26m2. All cabins are finished to the highest standard with sleek lines and neutral colours. All are equipped with an en-suite bathroom with shower, safe, air conditioning/heating, hairdryer and flat screen TV. Most cabins also feature a dressing table and chair. The category 5 cabin has four portholes.

10 September, 2024 to 18 September, 2024
ship icon Queen Eleganza
Book now

Category 6 Sole

£3,495 GBP pp
Category 6 Sole
Double cabin on the Lower Deck for sole use - 15m2. All cabins are finished to the highest standard with sleek lines and neutral colours. All are equipped with an en-suite bathroom with shower, safe, air conditioning/heating, hairdryer and flat screen TV. Most cabins also feature a dressing table and chair. The cabins on the Lower Deck all have two portholes.

Category 2

£3,495 GBP pp
Category 2
Twin Cabin on the Main Deck - 12m2. All cabins are finished to the highest standard with sleek lines and neutral colours. All are equipped with an en-suite bathroom with shower, safe, air conditioning/heating, hairdryer and flat screen TV. Most cabins also feature a dressing table and chair. The category 2 cabins on the Main Deck benefit from a large picture window offering wonderful views.

Category 1

£3,495 GBP pp
Category 1
Twin/Double cabin on the Lower Deck - 17m2. All cabins are finished to the highest standard with sleek lines and neutral colours. All are equipped with an en-suite bathroom with shower, safe, air conditioning/heating, hairdryer and flat screen TV. Most cabins also feature a dressing table and chair. The cabins on the Lower Deck all have two portholes.

Category 3

£3,795 GBP pp
Category 3
Twin Cabin on the Main Deck - 14.5m2. All cabins are finished to the highest standard with sleek lines and neutral colours. All are equipped with an en-suite bathroom with shower, safe, air conditioning/heating, hairdryer and flat screen TV. Most cabins also feature a dressing table and chair. The category 3 cabins have three portholes.

Category 4

£4,095 GBP pp
Category 4
Twin/Double cabin on the Main Deck - 15m2. All cabins are finished to the highest standard with sleek lines and neutral colours. All are equipped with an en-suite bathroom with shower, safe, air conditioning/heating, hairdryer and flat screen TV. Most cabins also feature a dressing table and chair. The category 4 cabins on the Main Deck benefit from a large picture window offering wonderful views.

Category 5

£4,495 GBP pp
Category 5
Double cabin on the Main Deck - 26m2. All cabins are finished to the highest standard with sleek lines and neutral colours. All are equipped with an en-suite bathroom with shower, safe, air conditioning/heating, hairdryer and flat screen TV. Most cabins also feature a dressing table and chair. The category 5 cabin has four portholes.

Queen Eleganza

Vessel Type: Small Ship

Length: 49m

Passenger Capacity: 36

Built/Refurbished: 2018

For our cruises along the Adriatic coast, we are delighted to have the newly built Queen Eleganza. This beautifully crafted vessel is one of the finest Croatian flagged vessels of her kind and we believe she is the perfect vessel from which to explore the Croatian coast. Carrying a maximum of just 36 guests, there is the added benefit of a relaxed and intimate atmosphere on board.

The Sun Deck, with its comfortable sun loungers, is the perfect place to watch the passing scenery and the team of friendly Croatian crew will provide you with excellent service and hospitality throughout the ship. To enhance your voyage further there is also a Cruise Director on board.

Dining on board is a casual affair and the menus feature locally sourced fresh food including fish. When dining ashore independently, your knowledgeable Cruise Director will recommend popular local restaurants.

AIR-CONDITIONING

All cabins and public rooms have air-conditioning.

BAR/BEVERAGES

Wine, beer and soft drinks at lunch and dinner are included in your holiday price. For other drinks consumed throughout your journey you will receive a final bill to settle at the end of your journey. Complimentary bottles of mineral water will be placed in your cabin daily and near reception before an excursion.

CABINS

The 18 cabins are equipped with air conditioning/heating, a wardrobe, drawers, radio, a flat screen television, a hairdryer and safety deposit box. Most cabins also feature a dressing table and chair. The cabins on the Lower Deck all have two portholes whereas on the Main Deck, the category 3 cabins have three portholes and the category 5 cabin has four portholes. The category 2 and 4 cabins on the Main Deck benefit from a large picture window offering wonderful views. Cabins measure between 12 and 18 square metres, with Category 5 measuring 26 square metres. The cabins have fixed twin or double beds and the configuration cannot be changed. Each cabin also has an en-suite bathroom with shampoo /shower gel dispenser. Please note that the movement of the ship can cause small amounts of water to collect on your bathroom floor. Please note that bathrobes and slippers are not provided.

DINING, DRINKING & DIETARY REQUIREMENTS

Meals on board are either buffet style or served and there is one sitting with an open seating arrangement. When the weather permits, lunch and dinner may be served in the covered outside area of the Sun Deck. Please be advised that, as there is not always a choice at meal times it is imperative that you advise any special dietary requests, such as vegetarian, gluten free, low salt etc. to Noble Caledonia (in writing) in advance. Please also advise if you do not, or cannot, eat fish and shellfish as these feature regularly on the lunch and dinner menus. We regret that the ship is unable to guarantee special requests and is not equipped to prepare or serve kosher or halal cuisine. Complimentary self-service tea and coffee, with fruit and biscuits, are available in the restaurant 24 hours a day. On nights when you are free to dine independently ashore, if instead you wish to stay on board for dinner, this is possible at a rate of €25 per person each time, which will be added to your onboard account. 24 hours advance notice is required.

DISABLED FACILITIES

The ship does not have facilities for disabled or wheelchair dependent passengers. The stairs between decks are steep and there is no lift or chair lift on board.

DOCTOR

There is no doctor on board. Should you be in need of medical assistance, please contact a member of the crew who are first aid trained, or the Cruise Director. 

ELECTRICITY

The cabins feature 220 volt current, with sockets accepting 2 round-pin (European style) sockets. There are no sockets in the bathrooms. We recommend taking a universal adaptor.

INTERNET

The ship offers a free Wi-Fi connection in the public areas, but not in the cabins. Depending on the ship’s location, there may be times when the connection is very slow or is disrupted and the same level of connectivity that you enjoy at home cannot be expected on board.

LANGUAGE

All members of the crew speak English.

LAUNDRY SERVICE

Due to the size of the ship there is no laundry service on board.

PUBLIC AREAS

Main Deck: Reception is located on the Main Deck. Upper Deck: On the Upper Deck you will find the bar, restaurant, lounge, and public restrooms. The lounge has a small library of books, games and DVDs. The tea/coffee station is located in the restaurant here. Sun Deck: The Sun Deck has sun loungers and seating for outdoor dining (weather permitting).

SMOKING

Smoking is restricted to the designated open areas only. Smoking is prohibited in all other areas including cabins and the restaurant.

Cabin layout for Queen Eleganza

Inclusions


• Voyage on board in selected cabin category
• House wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner on board
• Expedition team
• Shore excursions as per the itinerary (Note: Some itineraries have optional excursions as per the specific exclusions)
• Gratuities
• Port Charges/ Taxes
• Transfers as per the itinerary (Note: Transfers are offered in conjunction with group flights only when booked together, both can be taken off if included in the itinerary and credited)

Exclusions


• Passport and Visa costs where applicable
• Travel insurance
• Beverages other than those listed in inclusions
• Meals when not on board the ship unless otherwise stated
• Pre and post voyage accommodation unless otherwise stated
• Optional excursions as per specific itinerary
• Any items of a personal nature
Queen Eleganza
Adriatic Small Ship CruiseSmall Ship Cruise
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9 Days from
£3,495 GBP pp
Map for Idyllic Istria - Istria & Kvarner Bay Cruise

Highlights

• Exploring Cres Town: On Day 2, you'll have the opportunity to explore Cres Town, a charming and historic place with a strong Italian influence. Its atmospheric streets, reminiscent of its Venetian rule, make for a delightful stroll. You'll also visit the former fort city of Lubenice, perched dramatically on a cliff with breathtaking views over the bay below.

• Rovinj's Unique Atmosphere: Day 3 takes you to Rovinj, where the houses within the old town lean into each other, creating a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. You'll visit St. Euphemia Church, perched on a small hill, which offers fantastic views of the town. The evening offers the chance to dine in a local restaurant and soak in the local culture.

• Exploring the Istrian Interior: On Day 4, you'll explore the picturesque villages and vineyards of the Istrian interior, renowned for its wines and truffles. Motovun, with its Romanesque-Gothic bell tower and Renaissance church, is a highlight. You'll also have the opportunity to taste local specialties, including olive oil, and sample wines typical of the region.

• Roman Heritage in Pula: Day 5 takes you to Porec and Pula. In Porec, you'll visit the 6th-century Euphrasian Basilica, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its Byzantine art. In Pula, you'll discover one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheatres in the world, the Arena, dating back to the 1st century AD. You'll also explore the town's diverse architecture, including Baroque palaces and Austrian villas.
Enquire Now

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0800 945 3327

AUS Freephone
1800 107 715

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