
College Break – Cruise Croatia: Split to Split
12 days, 7 cities | From $2,999 before flights | Estimated biweekly payments as low as $97
- Trip type
- Activity level
This trip is for 18–25-year-olds only
The College Break Collection was created exclusively for college-age travelers.
Over 25? Not a problem. See all of our trips here.
Why go?
Dive into the Croatian coast, where turquoise water meets ancient cities and every sunset outdoes the last. Swim, rot in the sun, and adventure by day, then experience the insanity of the Adriatic’s unrivaled nightlife by night. Seeing the best of coastal Croatia with new friends made at sea? Duh, yes. ⚓ NOTE! ⚓ The Captain has the right to adjust the below itinerary according to weather or port conditions, in order to ensure the safety and comfort of the boat and all travelers on board.
What you'll get
- All transportation while on the trip (Note: flights to/from your tour’s starting/ending cities are not included, but you can add them)
- 3 nights in handpicked accommodations
- 7 nights aboard a private, fully staffed ship
- Meals: 11 breakfasts, 7 three-course lunches and 3 dinners
- Guides: Expert Tour Director and 4 insider city tours with a local guide
- 24/7 support from our travel gurus
Picture yourself
- Sipping coffee on the sunny upper deck of your private boat
- Enjoying refreshing morning dips in the Adriatic
- Visiting five cities without ever repacking your suitcase
- Soaking in Hvar Town's renowned nightlife
- Snapping photos at the waterfalls of Krka National Park
- Exploring the ancient walled city of Dubrovnik
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Itinerary

Day 1: Overnight flight
Board your overnight flight, bound for Croatia. Just across the Adriatic from Italy, Croatia's variety of influences make it the best of all worlds—from Spanish-inspired fortresses to Eastern European dialects and Mediterranean cuisine. And with 1,246 islands and over 2,500 miles of coastline, there's only one proper way to see it all: by private boat.
Day 2: Arrive in Split + Welcome Dinner
Welcome to Croatia! You’ll spend the next few days exploring Split, the second-largest city in Croatia before the island-hopping portion of your tour begins. Full disclosure, this would be a good time to get some rest but…how can you rest in CROATIA?!
In the evening you’ll enjoy a Welcome Dinner. Hosted by your Tour Director, this dinner is all about getting to know your fellow travelers and kicking off the adventure ahead.
- Arrive at the airport and meet up with your Tour Director and fellow travelers before heading to your accommodations to check in.
- Head to your accommodations, check in, and meet your group for a walking tour of the neighborhood.
- Stroll through Split’s buzzing city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Day 3: Tour Split + optional Krka National Park & Waterfalls
Split has a little of something for everyone—and you'll see it all on a guided tour of the city. Because it was the under the rule of many empires, including Roman and Austro-Hungarian, the culture, architecture, and food is a melting pot of various cultures. Feeling a little outdoorsy? In the afternoon you can opt to join an excursion to Krka National Park, a must see for nature lovers.
- Take a guided tour of Split, led by your Tour Director, and get oriented in one of Croatia’s most iconic coastal cities.
- Visit the Old Town, built within the walls of Diocletian’s Palace, where ancient Roman ruins blend seamlessly into cafes, shops, and everyday life—it’s so well preserved, it feels like stepping back centuries.
- Spend the afternoon on your own, climbing Marjan Hill for sweeping views over the city and Adriatic, or wandering back down toward the water at your own pace.
- Hit beaches like Bačvice Beach or quieter rocky coves with crystal-clear water, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and soaking up the summer vibe.
Check out Riva Promenade: Just outside the palace walls, this palm-lined walkway is perfect for a sunset stroll (or an Aperol Spritz).
Stroll through Pazar: The old Green Market of Split is open 7 days per week. This open air market is the place to come to find everything from fresh produce to souvenirs and clothing.
Try Strukli: A popular Croatian dish, made of dough and various types of filling. It's delicious and a must-try as you stroll through Split.
Day 4: Free day in Split or optional Bosnia & Herzegovina day trip
Spend your free day on an optional excursion to Bosnia and Herzegovina's most beautiful city. Or enjoy one of Split's beautiful beaches. Your choice. There are no wrong answers.
Old Town Split: Return to Old Town, where every turn reveals something new. After seeing the major sights yesterday, this is your chance to wander at your own pace—past ancient walls, along winding cobblestones, and through alleys scented with espresso and fresh pastries. Discover tucked-away shops, cozy cafés, and local eateries as you go.
Marjan Hill: Head into Marjan Park-Forest, Split’s beloved escape for walking, running, biking, and scenic climbs. Make your way to the top for unbeatable views of the harbor and Old Town and stop at Teraca Vidilica — a small outdoor bar with sweeping panoramas and ice-cold drinks.
Day 5: Explore Split + Makarska
Today’s the day—you’re setting sail! Lather on the sunscreen, grab your floatie, and get ready to trade city views for sea breezes. After soaking up some time in Split, you’ll hop aboard your private boat and meet the captain and crew. Then it’s anchors up as you cruise toward your first island stop: Makarska.
Note: For some departures, docking in Makarska may occur on Day 10.
- Board your private boat, meet the captain and crew, and start channeling your Below Deck energy.
- Catch some sun on the upper deck, dive in at your first swim stop or nap in your cabin and settle into life at sea.
- Grab dinner and a drink on the seaside promenade in Makarska, where you’ll dock for the night. This island has got it all—think palm-lined beaches, epic mountain views, and nightlife that keeps the good times going long after sunset. It’s laid-back but lively, scenic but social, the perfect way to kick off your island-hopping adventure.
- Walk through Makarska’s picturesque villages.
Makarska summer concerts: All summer long, Makarska hosts concerts featuring well-known stars and local artists. Many are even free, and take place right outside in town squares.
Explore the local art scene: Makarska is home to several small galleries, including our favorite—New World Lover Art Gallery, just a five-minute walk from the port. In Split, centuries of inspiration have shaped a vibrant creative community. Visit the Meštrović Gallery for iconic 20th-century sculpture, or stop by Studio Naranca and the Jaman Gallery to see how local artists interpret life on the Dalmatian coast.
Day 6: Cruise from Makarska to Mljet
Wave goodbye to Makarska and set sail for Mljet, home to the legendary Cave of Odysseus. Start your morning with coffee and a freshly prepared breakfast by your onboard chef, then kick back and soak up the Adriatic during a swim stop.
- Head to Mljet National Park and take some time to explore. The park centers around Veliko and Malo Jezero (Big and Small Lakes), where you can chill, swim, or stroll and bike along scenic paths.
- Dock in the charming Port of Pomena, a tiny village with just over 50 residents. Take a peaceful stroll along the waterfront, soak in the serene vibes, and watch the sunset paint the Adriatic.
- Put on your best ’fit for your onboard Captain’s Dinner. Toast with champagne and enjoy a delicious 3-course meal in the boat’s main dining room. If this sounds idyllic, it’s because it is.
Day 7: Cruise to Dubrovnik
Rise and shine with another freshly prepared breakfast on board. Today, you’ll cruise from Mljet to Dubrovnik, one of Europe’s top vacation destinations and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once you arrive in Dubrovnik port, you’ll transfer to the gate of Dubrovnik where you’ll meet a local for a tour of the city. After that you’ll have free time to explore Dubrovnik on your own.
- Set sail from Mljet and spend the morning relaxing and sunbathing on board.
- Get acquainted with Dubrovnik during a tour led by a local guide.
- Enjoy free time to explore Dubrovnik's cobblestone streets and walled old town on your own.
Sunset from the city walls: Enjoy an epic sunset and gorgeous views of the city below from the top of old town Dubrovnik’s city walls.
Buža Bar: Grab a drink at the viral hole-in-the-wall bar with gorgeous views built into a rocky cliff side.
Day 8: Free day in Dubrovnik or optional Montenegro day trip
Choose your own adventure with a free day in Dubrovnik. Our reco? Check out some famous spots from Game of Thrones—see where they filmed King's Landing, the Purple Wedding, the House of the Undying, the walk of shame, and more. Want to beef up your passport? Cross another country off your list with an optional trip to Montenegro.
Game of Thrones: Tours for the hit show run aplenty in Dubrovnik, whether self-guided or locally led. See where crews filmed King's Landing, the Purple Wedding, the House of the Undying, the walk of shame, and many more notable sights.
Srd Hill views: The Dubrovnik cable car will take you to the top of Srd Hill for breathtaking views of the city and country below. Pro tip: Save money by buying a one-way ticket from the operator, then take the leisurely, scenic hike back down.
Day 9: Cruise to Korcula
Today, you’re headed to Korcula (KOR-choo-la), a historic, fortified town with architecture spanning all the way back to the 13th century. Rich in vineyards, olive groves, small villages, and sandy beaches, this is a place you won’t stop talking about once you’re back home.
- Kick back on deck, take in the views, and roll into the Korcula ready to explore with a guided walk through the old town.
- Wander into the historic center and try to navigate your way through the city. Korčula’s compact, maze-like layout makes it easy (and fun) to get a little lost.
- Check out St. Mark’s Cathedral, a Gothic-Renaissance standout sitting at the highest point in town. It’s a short climb, but the views—and the pics—are worth it.
- When night hits, grab dinner at a seafront spot or cozy konoba. Think waterfront tables, local wine, and a sunset that feels very main-character energy.
Marco! Polo!: Korcula is rumored to be the birthplace of the legendary world traveler. Though not confirmed, you can visit what is believed to be his birth home. But please, keep your voice down. Shouting "Marco Polo" won’t make him appear.
Wine time: Family-run estates pour unique island wines like Grk and Pošip paired with local olive oil and cheese. Enjoy a laid-back tasting experience surrounded by sun-soaked vineyards and sweeping views of the Adriatic.
Day 10: Cruise around Hvar
Hvar town gets all the hype in Croatia (and Europe tbh), thanks to the epic nightlife, Renaissance-era architecture, theaters, restaurants, and we need to double down and mention nightlife again. It's big, it's loud, it's beautiful, and it's guaranteed to show you a good time.
Note: For some departures, docking in Hvar may occur on Day 5.
- Start the morning lounging on the deck of your private boat. This is much like the other mornings on this trip, but truly we cannot stop saying it.
- Sail into Hvar, Croatia’s ultimate party island, and get acquainted with the bars and clubs you’ll be visiting later in the day.
- Stroll the shiny marble streets, peek at Gothic palaces, and sneak in some local wine or craft beer tastings along the way.
- After dark, dive headfirst into Hvar’s legendary nightlife. Bars, clubs, and late-night food are waiting for you.
Hvar Fortress: The Hvar Fortress (Tvrdava Španjola) was built in 1579 and stands tall today. Climb to the top for an epic lookout—try your best to time it with the sunset.
Nightlife: When summer rolls around, Hvar comes alive like nowhere else. You'll have a plethora of options for places to eat, drink, dance, catch live music, and visit art festivals—all after it gets dark. Some of our favorites are Hula Hula Beach Bar, Kiva Bar and Carpe Diem Beach club.
Day 11: Cruise to Split + Farewell Dinner
Spend your final morning at sea swimming and soaking up your last day of cruising in paradise. Enjoy a final swim stop and one last included lunch on board. After lunch you’ll arrive back at the port in Split where you can enjoy some free time before your Farewell Dinner in Old Town Split.
- Soak in the sun and just keep swimming during your last day on board.
- Enjoy one last night on the boat and give a toast to the crystal clear waters and the never ending Croatian fun.
- Share some last laughs (and maybe shed a few tears) at an included Farewell Dinner with the group.
Diocletian’s Palace: Curious to see inside the humble abode of a Roman Emperor? Check out the ruins dating back to late 3rd and early 4th century that belonged to the man famed for changing the face of the empire, Diocletian.
Marjan Hill: Head into Marjan Park-Forest, Split’s beloved escape for walking, running, biking, and scenic climbs. Make your way to the top for unbeatable views of the harbor and Old Town and stop at Teraca Vidilica — a small outdoor bar with sweeping panoramas and ice-cold drinks.
Day 12: Fly home
Zbogom prijatelji!
Translation: Goodbye, friends! Your next destination awaits—home. But this isn’t goodbye. It’s “See you later.” The only question is, where?
Book with peace of mind
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Accommodations
We handpick every accommodation and focus on locations and properties where local culture is at your doorstep. Specific accommodations will vary based on your departure date, but these are frequently used properties for this tour.

Studentski dom Bruno Bušić
This minimalist hostel is located right by the water in Split. Guests will enjoy balconies and a refrigerator in each room, two large terraces, and communal spaces. Nearby, you’ll find access to several restaurants and cafes...

Katarina Line Plomin Ship
This traditional ship hosts up to 38 people in rooms across on an upper, main, and lower deck, all with private ensuite bathrooms. Guests will enjoy access to a restaurant, sun deck, and several common areas.
Customize with excursions
Enhance your experience with hand-picked optional excursions—designed to add adventure, culture, and unforgettable moments to your journey.
Weather
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Weather averages
Split, Croatia
Weather averages
Flights
When you include flights with your trip, our dedicated team of experts will handle all the details, so your travel experience is as seamless as possible. Just select your dates and airport to see pricing.
Perks of booking flights with us
- Airport transfers to and from accommodations
- Ability to pay for flights over time, interest free
- Convenience of travel plans all in one booking
- 24/7 guidance through flight changes or delays
- Free delayed and lost bag tracking with Blue Ribbon Bags
- Locked-in price (barring post-booking changes)
- Flexibility for pre- or post-trip travel
- Major international airlines only
Traveler photos
FAQ
Your cruise awaits, book the trip! We recommend booking as soon as possible - this not only secures your spot on the trip, it also allows you the most time to pay for your trip. The closer we get to departure, the more challenging securing your reservation becomes.
Get ready for sun-soaked coastlines, medieval cities, and crystal-clear waters—Croatia is where history meets beach party vibes. From the ancient walls of Dubrovnik to the island-hopping adventures of Hvar and the laid-back charm of Split, this Adriatic gem is packed with unforgettable moments. You’ll wander cobblestone streets, swim in hidden coves, and dance the night away at seaside clubs. Inland, places like Plitvice Lakes National Park bring the wow factor with waterfalls and lush hiking trails that feel straight out of a fantasy film.
Croatia’s Mediterranean climate means hot, dry summers and mild, breezy winters—perfect for exploring both cities and coast. Croatia is all about sun, sea, and sailing. Whether you're diving into turquoise waters, sipping a spritz in a buzzing square, or catching a sunset over the Adriatic, Croatia delivers that perfect mix of chill and thrill for travelers who want to soak up culture and sunshine in equal measure.
Groups average around 30 travelers but can range from 20 up to 44. Generally, the average age is 25. The group size allows for plenty of opportunities to socialize and explore together, making it a great opportunity to meet like-minded people and form lasting connections. Whether you're a solo traveler or coming with friends, you'll find a supportive and energetic group atmosphere. Check out our Rules of the Road and the role all travelers play in creating a fun and inclusive group.
Traveling solo? Have no fear! Over 60% of our travelers join an Ultimate Break tour solo. It doesn't matter if you're an introvert, an extrovert, or anything in between - our tours are designed for you to build connections that will last a lifetime. With experiences like our included Welcome and Farewell dinners, we'll make sure you have time to get to know your fellow travelers. First time traveling with us? Check out our resources for first time travelers here
When you book flights with us you’ll get:
- The ability to roll the cost of your airfare into our interest free monthly payment plan.
- One checked bag per traveler included.
- Expert guidance on how to work with the airline when flight delays and cancellations occur.
- Transfers to and from the airport on your tour's arrival and departure dates.
- Flexible rebooking options if your itinerary changes.
- Flexibility around your arrival and departure airports. You’ll have the option to fly in or out of most airports if you want to add any independent travel before or after your tour.
- Assurance that you will only be booked on airlines that meet our rigorous safety standards.
If you have preferences regarding an airline or are traveling with someone and wish to be on the same flight as them, you can read more about flying with your friend here. We're always happy to look into it however we can't guarantee we will always be able to accommodate.
Flight details are released for preview 60 days before departure and your e-ticket and confirmation number will be available 30 days before you depart.
When you book flights on your own, you’re responsible for:
- Transfers to and from the airport on your tour’s arrival and departure dates.
- Rebooking your flight and any associated fees if your flight is cancelled or delayed.
- Rebooking your flight and any associated fees if your itinerary changes or the tour is cancelled.
- Arriving and departing on time; no compensation will be provided for missed tour inclusions.
We recommend you avoid checking a bag, but if that’s not possible, you should ensure that you bring extra clothes and essentials in a carry-on bag as a precaution. You'll need to refer to your airline’s website for weight limits.
For more information on flying with Ultimate Break, check out the Flights section of our Help Center
Generally, expect to depart your home gateway in the afternoon or evening on Day 1. All overnight flights from the US to Europe will arrive mid-morning to early afternoon on Day 2.
Worried about jetlag, delayed flights, or just want more time to explore, we strongly encourage extending your stay to arrive early or stay late. This way you can settle in without the stress of missing anything.
When you arrive at the airport, you'll head through baggage claim and customs before being greeted by your Tour Director. They'll set a designated place for you to meet as the trip gets closer. For travelers who booked flights through Ultimate Break, you'll then be transported to your first accommodation to freshen up before the Welcome Dinner.
Your Tour Director is with you during your entire trip. They're part logistics master, making sure you get to see all that we have planned; part rockstar, sharing with your local hotspots; and part guru, sharing and inviting you into the culture. Our Tour Directors are fully trained and ready to support you in making your journey safe, seamless, and unforgettable!
In some locations you will be met by a local guide who will lead you through our traveler-inspired walking tour. You'll get some local history and culture while also making sure you hit the photo stops. You'll walk away with an insider's perspective and some great pictures.
We recommend budgeting $80-$100 per day to cover tipping, food, and shopping. You know your spending habits best, if you want to do it all budget on the higher end.
On this trip you'll use the Euro. We strongly advise that you take debit and credit cards (ideally with a chip), which can be used to withdraw cash at local banks as needed. Make sure to check with your bank or credit card company about withdrawal fees and/or foreign exchange fees. While better rates of exchange are usually available overseas, ordering currency from your local bank may be an option.
On Essential trips, roommates are assigned randomly unless a specific roommate is requested in advance, you can do this at the time of booking or in your online account up to 60 days before departure. Rooms may accommodate 4+ travelers of the same gender. Please note that rooming upgrades and mixed gender rooming are not available.
Croatia is considered safe for travelers, but like any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and follow basic safety guidelines. Pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded areas or tourist hotspots. Keep your belongings secure and be cautious with strangers offering unsolicited help or deals.
Here are a few additional points:
- Health and Safety: Talking with your healthcare provider about any vaccinations or medication you may want to consider. Here are some additional tips for traveling with medication and traveling with allergies.
- International Data Plan: In the event you need to get in touch with your Tour Director or Ultimate Break while abroad, it’s important to invest in an international data plan. Call your cell phone provider to understand their plans or look into purchasing a sim card.
- Transportation Safety: When getting a taxi, make sure to agree on a price before getting in. At the end of a night out, use trusted transportation like a licensed taxi, Uber of Uber like service, and always have cash on hand.
- Nightlife: As with anywhere in the world, watch your drink, and avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
You can learn more about our safety commitment here.
Ultimate Break trips are a welcome environment for all. While we work hard to cultivate an inclusive environment in our groups, we recognize some people may have additional reservations based on their identity that they need to consider while traveling. Check out some resources on our identity and international travel page and reach out if you have any questions.
We categorize this trip as a low activity level. This means you're ready to choose your own adventure. You may spend more time on a bus or vehicle but there will be some walking and activities as well. There’s also some free time for you to enjoy at your own pace. On these tours, be prepared to:
- Walk a minimum of 7,500k steps per day (more if you add excursions)
- Use public transportation
- Climb on and off a motor coach or vehicle unassisted
- Manage your own luggage (including carrying luggage upstairs if no elevator)
- Climb occasional stairs, hills and navigate various terrains (think cobblestones) to different sites
- Stand for periods of time during guided commentary and photo stops
For Essential Trips: Be able to climb a ladder for bunk beds (if applicable)
Excursions are available for purchase at a discounted rate prior to departure. Some excursions may be available for purchase while you are on tour directly through your mobile app but are subject to availability and will be more expensive.
We recommend purchasing excursions at least 3 days prior to your tour departure. Please note some excursions have advance booking deadlines. Check your tour itinerary for more information to ensure you don’t miss the deadline to add them.
When you travel with Ultimate Break, you’ll make a positive impact on the places you visit and the people and animals you meet along the way. That’s because our three core Responsible Travel commitments—protecting the environment, supporting local communities, and promoting animal welfare—are at the heart of every tour we offer.
Learn more about EF's Impact approach here.
Select trip date
| Date | Trip type | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 2027 | ||
| Essential | $2,999 | |
You must be 18–35-years-old to travel with us
Your safety is priority #1
Our parent company EF has been ensuring the safety of travelers abroad since 1965 with:
- 24/7 global on-call support
- Highly trained Tour Directors
- Quality & safety checks on accommodations
- 50,000 EF staff on the ground in 50 countries


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