Historical Highlights of Dalmatia (Exclusive to Andante)

An undoubted icon of world travel, Dubrovnik is unmissable. This morning we appreciate why George Bernard Shaw described this enchanting walled medieval city as “paradise on earth”. On a walking tour of Dubrovnik’s gleaming stone streets, we make stops at the elegant 15th century Rector’s Palace, home to the rulers of old Ragusa, along with the Franciscan Monastery and its ancient pharmacy.

Enjoy magical views as M/S Equator sails around Dubrovnik’s city’s walls en route to one of the tranquil Elaphiti Islands for a swim stop. Back on the mainland, and the Peljesac peninsula noted for high quality wine production, Slano is our gateway to Ston, a once fortified village now best known for its succulent oysters, which we get to sample this evening.

Our voyage continues to Mljet, the greenest of the Dalmatian Islands. Here we spend time in the picturesque, verdant Mljet National Park and take a boat ride to St. Mary Isle to visit an ancient Benedictine monastery, an old abbey and 12th century church. We berth in the port of Pomena this evening, a tiny village with just 50 permanent inhabitants, but which still offers a choice of restaurants for dinner.

Stopping for lunch at a secluded bay on the way, we sail today to Korčula, reputedly the birthplace of Marco Polo. The enchanting island is home to one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe, and we explore its Gothic palaces, stone streets and fairytale towers. Gourmet delights await this evening at whichever restaurant you choose, with fresh fish and seafood a particular pleasure, accompanied by the excellent local wine.

M/S Equator sails on to Vis, formerly a Yugoslav naval base. As a result of decades of restricted access, Vis has a special charm – ‘the Mediterranean as it once was’. We have the chance to explore the attractions of Vis, including a Roman thermal palace and a small archaeological museum displaying a 4th century BCE bronze of Artemis, along with time at leisure, during which you may sample some of the island’s renowned wine. Back onboard, a sumptuous Captain’s Dinner is served this evening.

Following a stop at tiny Biševo to visit the luminescent natural phenomenon known as the Blue Cave (weather permitting), M/S Equator sails on to Hvar, the sunniest of the Dalmatian Islands. Hvar Town, another walled gem of Gothic buildings and marble streets, is a particular highlight, and we visit the oldest public theatre in Europe and the Renaissance cathedral. We berth further along the island in Stari Grad, which justifies its translation (‘old town’) with a history that stretches back 2,500 years. Choose one of the excellent cafés and restaurants that line the harbour here for dinner.

After a stop at the Golden Horn, a breathtaking, constantly shape-shifting beach on the island of Brač, M/S Equator sails on to Split. Before our arrival, our Guide Lecturer will give a talk on Diocletian and the later Roman of the 3rd and 4th centuries AD. Here, in the land of his birth, the Roman Emperor Diocletian retired, having built the most extraordinary palace complex, which now comprises much of the old town. There are Roman-era remnants to admire – not least the Temple of Jupiter (now cathedral baptistery) and the Peristyle, the city’s elegant central square – along with Gothic and Renaissance buildings, which add further lustre to this UNESCO World Heritage Site. With amazing restaurants to choose from, you’ll be spoilt for choice at dinner.

We disembark M/S Equator after breakfast and transfer from the port of Split to the airport for our flight home.