The Adriatic Sea is a semi-enclosed sea, bordered in the southwest by the Italian (Apennine) Peninsula, in the northwest by the Italian regions of Veneto and Friuli-Venezia Giulia, and in the northeast by Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, and Albania—the Balkan peninsula. In the southeast, the Adriatic Sea connects to the Ionian Sea at the Strait of Otranto. The Adriatic Sea contains over 1300 islands, mostly located along the Croatian Coast.

The beauty of the Adriatic Coast impresses even the most experienced of travellers. The sea, an intense blue and the islands, amazingly picturesque. Mountains sweep down to the sea covered in rich vegetation, islands lace the coast creating endless inviting waterways and channels. On shore there are unforgettable historic villages, towns and cities.

Some of the highlights of small ship cruising along the Adriatic coast include:

Kotor. Embedded into the slopes of the steep Lovćen mountain, and overlooking the deep blue sea, the fortified town of Kotor boasts a spectacular, imposing staging that few can match. A pearl of Montenegro and the Adriatic, Kotor's warren-like streets are full of history and authenticity. 

Dubrovnik. The Pearl of the Adriatic, Croatia’s crowning glory rears up vertically from the tranquil waters of the sea, and Dubrovnik’s daunting fortresses town is a truly imposing sight to behold. Encircled by chunky stone walls so thick and dramatic they could have been purpose-built as a film set, this city’s unmatched old town is the setting for countless films and shows - from Star Wars to Robin Hood, Game of Thrones and every production in-between seeking a truly authentic medieval flavour. 

Split. If Dubrovnik is the Pearl of the Adriatic, Split is its beating heart. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the centre of Split is built into the remains of Emperor Diocletian's Palace and now mixes the ancient remains of thermal baths, alleyways and courtyards with restaurants, cafes and shops.

Wild Earth Travel is owned and operated by expedition leaders with over 30 years' experience voyaging, leading and creating expeditions all over the globe.

• We Are Travellers. Our team of small ship cruise specialists is very well travelled. We have led small ship cruises all over the world and experienced the most unique and fascinating corners of the planet, and we love sharing our experiences with you!

• Unbiased Advice. Our team are all passionate expedition and small cruise ship travellers, and our knowledge and stories come from our own personal experiences, which we then use to match you with the best small ship options for you.

• Largest Choice Providers. Our collection of small ship cruises is constantly growing, we now feature over 1200 cruises aboard more than 80 small ships. Our insider knowledge of the industry means there is barely a ship or a destination worldwide that we haven't experienced.

• Convenience Matters. We offer you the ability to pay in the original currency of the ship operator, meaning that you won't pay more in currency buffers. You can be assured that you are in safe hands as our team of specialists guide you through the entire booking process.

• Personalised Service. As you prepare for your cruise, we will be in touch to ensure you have everything you need, from packing lists and suggested reading lists to pre- and post- transfers and accommodation. For some cruises, there may be the option to add on extra activities.

• Let us sort through the options for you. Being one of our most popular small ship destinations, there are boundless options when it comes to cruising the Adriatic. Let us know what you are after and we’ll match you with the adventure for you!

If you'd like to learn about some of our other Adriatic itineraries, please contact us. You may also be interested other cruising destinations in the region including the Greek Islands, Italy and France and Portugal and Spain.

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