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Small Ship Charters in Croatia Offer Safe 'Travel Bubbles' in 2021

12/15/2020

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Katarina Line offers charter cruises on a range of vessels, from a five-passenger gulet to a larger deluxe boat that carries up to 38. A Deluxe Superior ship is pictured here on a voyage. // Courtesy Katarina Line
By John Roberts 
With vaccines for COVID-19 beginning to be distributed around the world, it seems that we have hope of a return to travel in 2021. 
I know we are all looking forward to getting on the road and seeing new places around the world. Heck, most of us would love to be able to get out of our houses again by now! 
Personally, I'm excited for the prospect of heading off to some of the places on my travel wish list that I wasn't able to get to in 2020. I long to see new historic sites, drink delicious beers and try new foods with friends and family. 
Even with the coming vaccines, travelers and destinations are still likely to be conscious of hygiene and health protocols. No doubt, the world has been reshaped for the coming years by the coronavirus pandemic.  
With that in mind, small-group travel is quite appealing. It always has been for a number of reasons, actually, but now it really stands out as a terrific option. 
Travel surveys reveal that nearly 40 percent of people plan trips as part of a multigenerational group. If you are looking to head out in 2021 with friends and family, parents, grandparents and kids, you might want to consider a cruise voyage on a small ship.  
With some of the smallest boutique lines, like Katarina Line, you can even book a charter and have the whole experience to yourselves. Like your own safe "travel bubble." I'm highlighting Katarina Line here because the company reached out with some interesting details about what they are offering and because the cruise line operates in Croatia, which is among the most beautiful destinations I have visited. It's a great place for outdoors adventures, and it happens to be open to travelers from North America. 
Katarina Line offers sailings off the coast of Croatia, and the company sees a trend when it comes to families planning to travel together in the coming year. 
"We're seeing grandparents book entire ships to treat their extended families and couples celebrating special occasions such as weddings and anniversaries," said Daniel Hauptfel, the company's marketing manager. "We're also seeing more special interest groups that focus on such themes as gastronomy, health and wellness, history, and culture; as well as schools creating music, athletic and other academic programs." 
 
Sailing the Adriatic Sea 
Katarina Line operates a fleet of more than 60 ships that cruise the clear waters of the Adriatic Sea, visiting the picturesque islands and port towns of Croatia. Ships range from modern, deluxe superior vessels that accommodate as many as 38 people, to traditional wooden gulets carrying as few as five people for a truly intimate sailing voyage. 
 
Among Katarina Line's larger, deluxe vessels, whole-boat charters prices range from approximately $36,000 to $65,000 for a seven-night cruise with a crew. The vessels typically feature a crew of nine, with 18 to 19 air-conditioned and fully-equipped en-suite cabins. 
Prices include buffet breakfasts and three-course lunches daily, complimentary tea, coffee and water. They also include a Captain's Dinner, as well as an olive oil and wine tasting demonstration onboard. Other dinners are on your own in the destinations that you visit. 
The ships also feature amenities such as sundecks with deck-beds and hot tubs, plus low rear platforms for easy access to the sea, with numerous opportunities to swim in secluded coves. For an added fee, you can add inland excursions, such as guided walking tours, wine tastings, and visits to national parks, with UNESCO World Heritage site Plitvice Lakes National Park a perennial favorite.  
 
"Katarina Line's itineraries give travelers the chance to explore the stunning natural beauty of the islands of the Adriatic, as well as the small, coastal towns that are steeped in mythology and history," Hauptfeld said. "We depart from major destinations that include Opatija, Split and Dubrovnik, with unique land and cruise programs that offer some of the most memorable and easiest ways to experience the true Croatia." 
 
Katarina Line's smaller cruise vessels tend to offer more pricing and cruise flexibility. Gratuities, drinks from the bar, taxes and fees are not included. 
 
An Eye on Health 
Katarina Line observes strict health and safety protocols, with frequent and regular cleaning of all common areas, as well as handrails, doorknobs and light switches. Cabins are cleaned on a daily basis, with all surfaces thoroughly sanitized. 
 
Open for Visitors 
Croatia is open to U.S. citizens throughout the COVID crisis. A negative PCR test (within 48 hours) is required for entry to the country. You probably won't find direct flights from the U.S., but airports in Zagreb, Split and Dubrovnik offer daily connections from major European hubs. Katarina Line's cruise season runs from April through October. 
 
About Katarina Line 
Katarina is one of Europe's premier small-ship companies, with a fleet of 60 vessel and weekly guaranteed departures from the end of April to mid-October. It operates out of the major tourist centers of Opatija, Split and Dubrovnik. With a growing fleet in six categories of ships, the itineraries give travelers the opportunity to explore the stunning natural environment and picturesque Mediterranean towns of Croatia while hopping from one island to another. 
I have sailed on a small yacht charter in Greece and had plans to get to Croatia in 2020. Of course, that was nixed, but I am looking forward to exciting new adventures like this soon, and I'm putting one of these intimate voyages with my friends and family on the calendar.  
Who wants to join us? 
Thanks for reading, 
JR â€‹
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Katarina Line Offers Small-Ship Cycling Cruises in Croatia

6/24/2020

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Katarina Line's cruises around Croatia's stunning islands offer an ideal way to stay active while exploring.
By John Roberts
Fresh air, sunshine and serenity is the way to go these days. You want to avoid the crowds and get out to enjoy nature. There is no better way to ensure a safe and fun getaway.
And Croatia is the ideal destination for all of this.
Small cruise company Katarina Line, which offers intimate sailing experiences in Croatia, says it is seeing a surge in more active itineraries as more travelers seek "the great outdoors."
Katarina Line is reporting rising interest in its popular "Cycle & Cruise" programs, for example, as Croatia prepares to reopen its borders to international travel. The tours, departing from Split and Opatija, explore Croatia's spectacular coastline, medieval towns, natural attractions and picturesque villages and bays.
Highlights include tours of vineyards, pine woods and natural attractions, such as Mljet National Park, which is Croatia's oldest Mediterranean marine protected area.

"Katarina Line is ready to go full steam ahead with all our cruises and inland tours," said Daniel Hauptfeld, marketing director for Katarina Line. "Croatia has been praised for its strict and effective approach to lockdown, allowing the country to restart its economy and welcome visitors safely again.
"Tourist facilities and services will soon be up and running, with every safety measure in place to ensure the utmost well-being of our guests. More importantly, visitors will be welcomed with pleasant sunny days that are ideal for cycling the beautiful countryside and swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Dalmatian coastline."

Check out these details for Katarina LIne's active program:

Going South 
The seven-day round-trip "Bike Split South" itinerary departs from Split and includes guided tours of the islands of Brac and Hvar, the Peljesac Peninsula in southern Dalmatia and Mljet, Korcula and Solta, before returning to Split.
Cycling routes include the coastal road of the northern part of the island of Brac, which passes old-world fishing villages before arriving in Pucisca. Pucisca is often called "one of the prettiest villages in Croatia," thanks to its white limestone and scenic bay. You will also enjoy cycling to Orebic on the Peljesac Peninsula. The port town is known for its waterfront lined with houses and exotic gardens built by the sea captains who made the town prosperous in 18th century.
Cruisers will cycle around Mljet National Park, a distinctive natural haven that features two connected salt water lakes, lush flora and a unique coastline of cliffs and islets surrounded by green hills. In Korcula, you can cycle through olive groves and vineyards that include one of the most famous grape varieties, Posip. A visit to Hvar includes an exploration of its architecture. Passengers also will cycle through Stari Grad Plain, a UNESCO World Heritage site where the ancient Greek land division of road and properties lines has been preserved to this day.
Open Roads in Opatija
The seven-day "Bike Opatija" cruises lead cyclists on a tour around the stunning Kvarner Bay, among other locations. The voyage is a round-trip sailing, launching from Opatija. Passengers will explore the islands of Krk, Rab and Pag, which is known for its barren, moonlike landscape. You also will explore the islands of Ilovik, Losinj, and Cres, famous for its 16th-century Venetian Tower and Arsan Palace, before returning to Opatija.
 
This itinerary also includes cycling from Krk Island to Cres Island. Along the way, travelers will discover the islands' stunning coastlines, medieval towns, old villages and charming bays. They will be introduced to dazzling beaches, green vineyards, pine wood forests and unique coastal towns steeped in history as they enjoy challenging rides around the historic islands.
 
"After months of sheltering at home, travelers are eager to hit the open road again," Hauptfeld said. "Katarina Line's Cycle & Cruise programs offer active and healthy opportunities to experience the great outdoors and discover why Croatia is one of the fastest-growing tourist destinations in the world."
 
These cruises are relaxed and intimate sailings on wooden ships that feature cabins with private shower/toilet, mostly bunk beds, an air-conditioned salon and professional guides. Fares include continental breakfasts, choice of three-course lunches or dinner, with children under 10 at 50 percent off.
 
About Katarina Line
Katarina Line is Croatia's premier small-ship cruise company with weekly guaranteed departures from the end of April to mid-October. It operates out of the major tourist centers of Opatija, Split and Dubrovnik. With a growing fleet of more than 60 ships in six different categories, Katarina Line itineraries give travelers the opportunity to explore the stunning natural environment and picturesque Mediterranean towns of Croatia while hopping from one island to another, offering an opportunity to experience the true Croatia.

Thanks for reading,
JR
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7 Awesome Places to See in Croatia that Aren't Dubrovnik

4/23/2020

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The promenade in Zadar offers wonderful sea views. This is also where you can enjoy scenic sunrises and sunsets as well as listen to the famed Sea Organ. (Courtesy Zadar Tourist Board)
By John Roberts
Like a majority of cruise travelers, our introduction to Croatia came via a cruise stop in Dubrovnik. 
This beautiful town on the Adriatic Sea has been one of the busiest cruise ports on Mediterranean itineraries for more than a decade. The Old Town area is a stunning walled city and is referred to as the Pearl of the Adriatic. Dubrovnik's iconic orange rooftops situated along the coastline stand in contrast to the beautiful blue waters. Visitors love to stroll the historic district, wandering the alleyways and cobbled streets that are home to shops and restaurants.
You can also tour the ramparts, getting a view from atop the walls.
Dubrovnik was the country's first big tourist destination after the nation emerged from a war for independence from the former Yugoslavia in the mid-1990s. It especially grew in popularity and visibility because it was the main filming location for King's Landing in the smash HBO series "Game of Thrones."
Yes, Dubrovnik is a magical must-see place for avid travelers with an eye on Croatia. But the country is much more than this popular destination. We've found seven more great places to visit in Croatia.

Zadar
This historic city in the middle of Croatia's Dalmation Coast is one of the country's coolest destinations. Zadar owns an easy-going vibe, offering refreshing sea breezes as well as plenty of interesting cultural and historical attractions.
The city is surrounded by water and filled with intimate public squares and fascinating stone architecture. Historians will enjoy the Roman ruins. The city's promenade draws visitors who want to relax and people watch with views of the Zadar Channel.
Zadar's signature attraction is the quirky Sea Organ. This piece of landscape art was designed by architect Nikola Basic and uses the wave action of the sea to create a unique symphony as the water undulates and pushes air into tubes below the promenade.
Zadar also features wonderful restaurants, cafes, museums, a couple beaches and outdoor activities like swimming, kayaking and canoeing.
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A great view of Korcula from Fortress Saint Vlaho. (Courtesy Visit Korcula)
Korcula
A series of stunning islands sit in the Adriatic Sea -- off the coast of Croatia between Dubrovnik in the south and Split to the north. Among these islands is Korcula, which is 20 miles long and averages 4 to 5 miles wide throughout.
Korcula Town, or Old Town, which some call "Little Dubrovnik" is notable for its medieval town squares, orange-roofed buildings and historic churches.
You get to Korcula by ferry, and other top attractions include:
  • Lumbarda, a pretty village with sandy beaches, a marina and vineyards.
  • Defora, a remote area in the southern part of Korcula that offers pebble beaches, vineyards, hiking and biking.
  • Vela Luka, a small town located in a cove at the western side of Korcula. This sun-splashed destination offers a laid-back appeal for people seeking wellness vacations or simple relaxation. Check out Vela Spila, the Great Cave, a rocky hideaway from the Neolithic period.
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Hvar is noted for its beach resorts, beach clubs and nightlife among many other attractions. (Courtesy Visit Hvar)
Hvar
This island hot spot in the Adriatic has steadily been gaining popularity for more than a decade. Hvar Town is a large and scenic piazza with walls dating to the 13th century. It also features marble streets, an immense fortress, Gothic palaces and attractive churches.
Hvar is known as a party island, and tourists flock for the beaches, boating, water sports and nightlife.
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Split's Old Town is dominated by the impressive Diocletian's Palace complex. (Courtesy Visit Split)
Split
This is the second most-populous city (178,000 people) in Croatia (trailing the capital Zagreb's 800,000 residents), and this mainland destination sits along the coast midway between Dubrovnik and Zadar.
Split offers a pleasant mix of history and modernity. Outdoors types and history lovers relish the city's location on the lively waterfront of the Dalmatian Coast. You can enjoy beaches, swimming, boating and the bustling promenade.
The Old Town and surrounding area feature Roman ruins, palaces and historic cathedrals. Check out Diocletian's Palace (a large 4th century fortress complex) and St. Domnius Cathedral (dates to the 7th century).
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Plitvice Lakes National Park is home to 16 cascading lakes in a breathtaking environment. (Courtesy Plitvice Lakes Tourist Board)
Plitvice Lakes
This stunning national park is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Plitvice Lakes is an astounding natural wonder, with more than 1 million visitors coming each year to explore the lakes, lush forest and waterfalls spread throughout its 73,000 acres of protected area.
The geology of the lakes system is fascinating because of its system of 16 cascading lakes. This means there are clusters of lakes of higher elevation and those at lower elevations. They are formed by the confluence of small rivers and subterranean river systems, and the lakes are separated by a mix of natural dams formed from the natural travertine and plants.
Plitvice Lakes National Park is a fantastic place for photographers to get truly memorable images.
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Pula Arena is the city's well-preserved Roman coliseum. (Courtesy Tourism Office Pula)
Pula
This city sits at the tip of Croatia's Istrian Peninsula, jutting into the Adriatic.
Pula is a stunning gem, a small town known for its scenic location, delicious food offerings and beautiful Roman coliseum. In fact, the city's Pula Arena is the best-preserved amphitheater outside of Italy. It is the sixth-largest coliseum in the world and the lone one with a four-sided tower. The site dates to the first century and is one of numerous ancient Roman ruins and structures you can see throughout Pula.
Pula is also a wonderful place to visit for its festivals during the summer and an array of fine wines and regional cuisine available any time.
Outdoors enthusiasts will enjoy the chance to explore by hiking, biking and swimming at Brijuni National Park or south along the peninsula at Cape Kamenjak.
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The Croatian National Theater in Zagreb offers opera, ballet and other productions. (Courtesy Zagreb Tourist Board)
Zagreb
Croatia's capital city deserves mention, of course. It's the only destination in our group that is not on the water, but this city of more than 800,000 features a range of attractions for travelers.
Zagreb offers a cosmopolitan and laid-back vibe. There is plenty to do but does not possess an overly touristed feel. You can easily slip into the environment as if you are a resident -- savoring the architecture, exploring shops and sipping beverages at sidewalk cafes.
A wander through Zagreb reveals narrow streets, tree-filled courtyards and city parks and town squares that are often the sites of festivals. The city also is home to numerous museums and more than 20 farmers markets.
Top attractions in Zagreb include: Ban Jelacic Square (the city's main square), Zagreb Cathedral, Dolac Market and Lotrscak Tower (you can climb it for a unique view of the city).

Thanks for reading,
JR
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