Croatia's Dalmatian Coast and Montenegro
7 nights
National Geographic Orion
18 Aug '26Cruise overview
National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions and Food & Wine magazine have combined their expertise to deliver a stimulating and satiating exploration of Croatia and Montenegro’s enchanting riviera. Savor exclusive culinary experiences against spectacular backdrops, such as the walled medieval cities of Kotor and Dubrovnik, and experience pristine nature reserves, including the waterfall-laced Plitvice Lakes National Park. Discover the region’s cultural and culinary traditions—from oyster farming and olive oil production to sword dancing and silk embroidery—as we learn about their importance from the people dedicated to preserving these timeless traditions. A wine expert joins us throughout the voyage, offering accessible insights and nightly tastings to guide you through the region’s rich terroirs.
Itinerary
Split
Arrive in Zadar and transfer to the hospitality space at the Westin Zadar (or similar). In the early evening, transfer to the Gaženica port and embark the ship. Settle into your cabin, enjoying your first Dalmatian sunset as you set sail.
Note: A transfer will be offered from the Split airport to the Zadar hospitality room at 1:00 p.m.
Split’s ancient core is so spectacular and unusual that a visit is more than worth your time. The heart of the city lies within the walls of Roman emperor Diocletian’s retirement palace, which was built in the 3rd century AD. Diocletian, born in the nearby Roman settlement of Salona in AD 245, achieved a brilliant career as a soldier and became emperor at the age of 40. In 295 he ordered this vast palace to be built in his native Dalmatia, and when it was completed he stepped down from the throne and retired to his beloved homeland. Upon his death, he was laid to rest in an octagonal mausoleum, around which Split’s magnificent cathedral was built.In 615, when Salona was sacked by barbarian tribes, those fortunate enough to escape found refuge within the stout palace walls and divided up the vast imperial apartments into more modest living quarters. Thus, the palace developed into an urban center, and by the 11th century the settlement had expanded beyond the ancient walls.Under the rule of Venice (1420–1797), Split—as a gateway to the Balkan interior—became one of the Adriatic’s main trading ports, and the city’s splendid Renaissance palaces bear witness to the affluence of those times. When the Habsburgs took control during the 19th century, an overland connection to Central Europe was established by the construction of the Split–Zagreb–Vienna railway line.After World War II, the Tito years saw a period of rapid urban expansion: industrialization accelerated and the suburbs extended to accommodate high-rise apartment blocks. Today the historic center of Split is included on UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites.
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Mljet Island
Dubrovnik
Kotor
Komiza
Sibenik
Zadar
Zadar
Category 2 - Main Deck
#302-312, 314, 315, 317 — Cabins feature an oval window and configurable beds, consisting of two single beds that can be converted into a queen bed. An armchair, reading lamps, a flat screen TV, a bedside table, a coffee table, a desk, and climate controls complete the amenities. Marble bathrooms are generously sized and include a spacious shower stall with a glass door.
Amenities
- Twin
- Lounge Area
- Vanity Area
- TV
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Telephone
- Desk
- Air Conditioning
Ship features
National Geographic Orion combines the elegance of small-ship cruising with the innovation of a modern expedition vessel.
- 102-guest capacity for an intimate, personalised voyage
- Ice-strengthened hull for safe polar navigation
- Fleet of Zodiacs, kayaks, and a remote-operated vehicle (ROV)
- All outward-facing staterooms, many with French balconies
- Lounge and theatre for lectures and briefings
- Spa, fitness centre, and library onboard
- Expedition tools and photography equipment
- Expert-led landings, hikes, and snorkelling excursions
- Dining inspired by regional ingredients and sustainability
- National Geographic experts and photo instructors on every voyage
