How a Small-Ship Cruise Changed the Way We Explore Croatia
Updated: Jul 31
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 small-ship cruising. 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 going to give away every detail, because part of the magic is discovering your own Croatian adventure. But we can tell you this: after experiencing Croatia aboard a small-ship cruise, our idea of the perfect Croatia vacation changed completely.
For us, it was the perfect way to experience more of Croatia. We explored more destinations without constantly changing hotels, unpacked just once, and enjoyed the freedom of waking up somewhere new each morning. Dennis had a break from driving, I had a break from packing and unpacking, and with comfortable accommodations, exceptional hospitality, guided sightseeing, and two meals a day included, it offered incredible value as well.
We're already planning our 2027 Croatian adventure—and we'd love for you to join us. Whether it's your first time discovering Croatia or you're returning to experience a different side of the country, we'll be sharing more details about our hosted group cruise soon.
If you've ever dreamed of experiencing Croatia in a way that lets you slow down, venture beyond the tourist trail, and truly enjoy each destination, a small-ship cruise may just change the way you travel too.
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