How a Small-Ship Cruise Changed the Way We Explore Croatia
- Croatian Adventurer
- Aug 11, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 30, 2025
Why a Small-Ship Cruise Is the Best Way to Experience Croatia
In planning our previous vacations, it was always a challenge to find a “home base” that was strategically located for exploring. Each time, we’d pick a place, rent a car and take ferries to nearby islands. While beautiful, Dennis spent so much time behind the wheel and we had very little time enjoying where we were-always worrying about making the ferry. And then costs added up quickly — car rental, gas, and ferry tickets.
We’d heard about “island hopping” by boat, but large cruise ships never appealed to us. Those “floating cities” arrive in the morning and leave by late afternoon, missing the nightlife, the local flavors, and that magical moment when the sun goes down. Honestly, we thought small-ship cruising was something only the rich and famous could do.
Then we discovered Katarina Line. We took a chance, booked an eight-day Island Hopping Cruise — and it completely changed the way we explore Croatia
Day One: A Promising Start
Our adventure began at a marina just outside of Trogir. After a quick check-in and luggage drop at the reception center, we had time to explore the marina before our ship, the MS Infinity, arrived.
When we boarded, we headed straight to our cabin. We’d booked a main-deck room — spacious, comfortable, modern, and spotless. We didn’t splurge for an upper-deck balcony this time, but it’s definitely on the list for next time.
The rest of the ship had the same fresh, luxury feel — sleek finishes, airy spaces, and a relaxed atmosphere that instantly felt like vacation.
Our package included a full breakfast, three-course lunch, guided tours at every port, and special events like a welcome dinner, wine tasting, captain’s dinner, and even an oyster farm visit (with tastings, of course).
Evenings That Big Ships Miss
Before our first dinner, we joined a guided tour of Trogir, traveling in comfort on a luxury motor coach. After exploring the charming streets on our own, we returned to the Infinity for a dinner that exceeded every expectation — beautifully presented, flavorful, and the perfect setting to meet fellow travelers and crew.
But the best part came after dinner: sitting on the top deck under a blanket of stars, lulled by the gentle movement of the Adriatic Sea.
The Rhythm of the Cruise
Each morning, the ship left port around 7 AM. After a leisurely breakfast — fresh fruit, pastries, and Croatian specialties — the captain would anchor in a hidden cove for a morning swim.
From there, we’d visit smaller islands like Brač for coffee and sightseeing before heading to our overnight destination — Hvar, Mljet, Vis — each with its own unique vibe.
As the trip went on, the atmosphere on the ship shifted — strangers became travel friends, and the journey started to feel like one big shared adventure.
The Truth Behind the Photos
For our friends following along on Facebook, the trip might have looked exhausting — but what they didn’t see were the naps. (Yes, there was plenty of downtime.) On a mini cruise, you can do as much or as little as you want — and it always feels unrushed.
Why We’ll Never Travel Croatia the Same Way Again
We’re not giving away every detail, because part of the magic is having your own Croatia Adventure. But here’s what we can say: after sailing on Katarina Line’s MS Infinity, our idea of the perfect Croatia Adventure has completely changed.
Small-ship Cruising gave Dennis and me the perfect vacation. It let us see more in less time, without wasted travel days. It gave me a break from packing and unpacking, gave Dennis a break from driving, and even saved us money — no rental car, top-rated accommodations, and two meals a day included.
We’re already planning our 2026 trip to explore Croatia’s northern islands — and Katarina Line will be part of it.
If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing the real Croatia — authentic, immersive, and unforgettable — a small-ship cruise might just change the way you travel too.
We'd love to tell you how we did it!
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