Exploring a Symphony of Tastes along the Dalmatian Coastline from Dubrovnik to Split (and beyond) from both Land and Sea
This luxurious, fully hosted tour of must-see Dalmatian coastal cities was curated with love and a deep passion for Croatia. If your Mediterranean fantasies feature balmy days by sapphire waters in the shade of ancient walled towns, Croatia is the place to turn them into reality. The yachting portion of your tour begins in Dubrovnik, the walled city with ties to the fictional city King's Landing of Game of Thrones fame. As a guest of this 164 foot ultra-luxe yacht, you will view Croatia's most historic cities and villages from a vantage point reserved for the lucky few. Guided excursions into Dubrovnik, Korčula, Hvar and Split are all on the menu during your 6 days on the yacht. Your final 3 days are spent exploring thebeautiful hill towns of Istria peppered with truffle tastings, wine tastings and excursions through vineyards and olive groves. What else can we say but bon voyage, bon vivant!
Culinary Croatia by Land and Sea
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VACATION HIGHLIGHTS
Please note:
Tour inclusions can change depending upon
seasonality and weather conditions.
•5 Nights Luxury Cruiser Yacht
•3 Nights 5-Star Hotel
•Dubrovnik Airport Transfers
•Venice Airport Transfers
•Breakfast Each Morning
•Wine-Grower's Welcome Dinner
•Guided Tour of Dubrovnik Old Town
•Sail to Korčula
•Maha Ranch Multi-Course Dinner
•Guided Tour of Korčula Old Town
•Sail to Hvar
•Hvar Island Wine Tasting Tour
•Captains Dinner with Live Music
•Sail to Split
•Split Cooking Class with Multi-Course Lunch
•Michelin Star Dinner in Split
•Private Transfers from Split to Istria
•Opatija Riviera Lunch
•Wine & Truffle Experience with Lunch
•Istria Hilltop Villages Guided Tour
•Farewell Multi-Course Dinner with Wine Pairings
•Onboard Premium Docking Fee Package
•Onboard Premium Drinks Package
While our tours are designed as soft adventure experiences, walking, climbing stairs,
and in rare cases mild hiking may be required. If you have mobility issues, you should
speak with one of our culinary travel specialists to determine if this tour is
appropriate for your situation.
AVAILABLE DATES
Tour begins in Dubrovnik, Croatia on Monday, May 20th and ends in Venice, Italy on Tuesday, May 28th, 2024. 2025 dates to be announced soon, and we are taking reservation holds. Guests are highly encouraged to arrive a day or two prior to tour start dates.
SAMPLE ITINERARY
Please note: Actual itineraries are subject to change due to seasonality.
Click arrows (▶) to show details
Day 1
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Arrival and Transfers to the YachtIf you arrive on the day the tour begins, our local guide will meet and escort you from the Dubrovnik Airport to your 164 foot luxury yacht. Please note that we highly recommend you plan to arrive a day or two early, just to take in the beauty of Dubrovnik on your own.
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Dubrovnik & Konavle - Wine Grower's Welcome DinnerDubrovnik's old town is known as one of the world's finest and most perfectly preserved medieval cities. One of the best views in the world can be had from its monumental City Walls, so be prepared to be amazed. It is advised to arrive a day or two prior to your tour departure date so that you can enjoy a self-guided experience through the "pearl of the Adriatic." In the afternoon on the day your tour begins, you will embark on your luxury mini-cruiser yacht. In the early evening, you will enjoy your welcome dinner in the wine-growing area of Konavle, known for its unique architecture and numerous historical monuments. A small municipality, just a few kilometers from Dubrovnik, hides the biggest culinary treasures of this Dalmatian region. (Overnight Dubrovnik - Luxe Cruiser Yacht) D/S
Day 2
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Exploring the Wonders of DubrovnikDubrovnik's old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important living monuments in this part of Europe. Your private, guided sightseeing tour covers the emblematic landmarks and major sights, giving a great overview of Dubrovnik for first time visitors and returning guests alike. The top attractions you'll get to explore: The Old City Walls, Dubrovnik Cathedral and Treasury, The City Gates, Loggia Square, Fort Lovrijenac, Large Fountain of Onofrio and St. Saviour Church, Minceta Tower, Franciscan Church and Monastery, The Rector's Palace and many more. Today, Dubrovnik is the proudest feather in Croatia's tourist cap, an elite destination and one of the most beautiful towns in the Mediterranean. Dubrovnik used to be an independent republic, surviving mostly on trade.
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Sail Away to Korčula | Maha Ranch Multi-Course DinnerAfter the conclusion of your Dubrovnik tour you will board the yacht and sail away to Korčula. Upon arrival, dinner this evening will be at Maha Ranch, a hidden gem preparing dishes from locally sourced ingredients. (Overnight Korčula - Luxe Cruiser Yacht) B/L/D
Day 3
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Guided Walking Tour of the Old Town of KorčulaKorčula is one of Croatia's most treasured islands, also known by the Ancient Greeks as Black Korčula thanks to its lush forests of Aleppo pine, cypress and oak trees welcomes its visitors with a colorful cultural heritage and interesting legends. The private sightseeing covers the city highlights, giving a good overview of the Korčula town for the first time visitors. You'll get to see the emblematic landmarks and major sights of Korčula Old Town such as St Mark's Cathedral and other churches in the Old Town, the Bishop's Treasury, the Town Museum, the Icon Museum, as well as other interesting places including House of Marco Polo & Museum. Stroll the enchanting narrow cobbled streets of the town of Korčula, surrounded by 13th-century walls or enjoy one of the many art exhibitions and summer evening festivals. Korčula is also considered to be the birthplace of Marco Polo, and history and tradition are apparent when you walk along Korčula streets and squares. Visit the attractions up-close and take in the atmosphere, while your expert local guide provides you with all the information and stories about Korčula town and island itself. (Dinner is on your own in Korčula).
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Sail Away to HvarIn the evening you'll sail away to Hvar. (Overnight Hvar - Luxe Cruiser Yacht) B/L
Day 4
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Hvar Island Wine Tasting TourThis private half-day wine tour will take you on a journey through centuries-old vineyards on Hvar island. With your expert local guide bringing wines to life and unraveling Hvar's wine story, we'll start our journey in Hvar town and drive inland. On the way we'll pass through the old villages of Brusje and Velo Grablje and past many lavender fields. Next stop is Jelsa, where one specially chosen winery awaits your arrival. We're taking you back to the roots, to pure tradition: the Duboković winery. Award-winning red wines, the renowned Croatian wine Medvid, local cheese, homemade bread. You'll also be able to enjoy the family's own flavored olive oils. After tasting the basil and sage flavored olive oils, you may decide to move to Hvar permanently! After your reserved wine tasting, you'll head to a local estate for a fabulous, traditional Croatian lunch.
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Captains Dinner | Live MusicIn the afternoon we will sail out to anchor for the Captains Dinner in a secluded bay. Dinner this evening will be accompanied by live music. (Overnight Hvar Island Bay - Luxe Cruiser Yacht) B/L/D/S
Day 5
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Split Cooking Class | Multi-Course LunchAfter sailing to Split, you will have a day to cook and taste some local delicacies. This private culinary experience will be with a famous local chef who will guide you through the steps of preparing a delicious lunch. We start our day in Split's famous Green Market where we will buy the freshest, ingredients for our meal. Then, we will head through the old city to the fish market. Along the way, our chefs will tell you about the history, culture, and the philosophy of Dalmatian cuisine. With our fresh ingredients, we make our way back to the kitchen to prepare our meal that will consist of 5 different dishes. Our master chefs will guide you through a step-by-step process for creating your own Croatian meal. After you've prepared the dishes it's time to taste them. Enjoy! In each bite you will be able to taste the flavors of lovely Dalmatia. It is our hope that you will walk away not only full and satisfied, but also with a deeper appreciation for Dalmatian cuisine and the Croatian culture.
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Michelin Star Dinner in SplitThis evening you will enjoy a multi-course dinner at Dvor restaurant that is lead by Michelin star Chef Zirojevic. (Overnight Split - Luxe Cruiser Yacht) B/L/D
Day 6
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Split Disembarkation | Late Lunch in VoloskoAfter disembarkation, you will enjoy a comfortable transfer to the region of Istria, with a stop for lunch at Plavi Podrum. Located right on the waterfront in the picturesque Volosko Cove, Plavi Podrum, with its 100-year-old tradition, is the oldest restaurant on the Opatija Riviera.
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Welcome to the Region of IstriaAfter lunch and some free time, we will make our way to Buje. Istria is a peninsula in the turquoise Mediterranean, where the carefree miles of the blue Adriatic merge with playful hills, and where centuries old historic towns and picturesque Istrian villages combine with the natural beauty of the countryside. Dinner later this evening is on your own to explore the many local choices or at the hotel, if you're still hungry. (Overnight Buje - San Canzian 5 Star Hotel) B/L
Day 7
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Private Transfers to Istrian Hinterland - Motovun | Wine & Truffle Experience with LunchToday you will visit Croatian wineries and cellars, snuggly fitted into landscape. The excellence of gastronomy, the ambience and the surroundings of the restaurant, where you will have a truffle lunch is an experience to cherish. Truffle lunch in Istria is a gastronomic journey that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of the region and highlights one of its most prized treasures: the truffle. It's an experience that combines exquisite flavors, local traditions, and the beauty of the Istrian countryside into a memorable dining experience. Enjoy this gastro heaven! Dinner this evening is on your own at the hotel or in the village. (Overnight Buje - San Canzian 5 Star Hotel) B/L
Day 8
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Istria Hilltop Towns Guided ToursThe old town of Buje is on a 222-meter-high hill from where there's a beautiful view of nearby hills and green terraced fields. The town's medieval structure, fortified walls, two town gates, two bell towers and the central square have been preserved. Later you'll continue to Motovun, a little ancient Istrian town located on a hilltop at 277 meters. Its present appearance, with the city walls surrounding the center of the town, dates back to the Middle Ages. As a last stop on today's adventure, explore Grožnjan, another Istrian medieval hilltop town of galleries and artists' workshops. Almost every door here opens to an art studio or gallery, and through every window come the sounds of different musical styles, from classical to jazz. You'll quickly understand why Grožnjan is known as "the town of artists". Lunch is on your own to explore.
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Farewell Multi-Course Wine Pairing DinnerThis evening you will enjoy a farewell dinner at Roxanich Winery with a wine pairing experience. The Roxanich restaurant is a gorgeously located venue, with a view of the rolling Istrian countryside and the azure sky reflecting in the mirror like water. In its core, Istrian cuisine is cucina povera - simple, honest, based on seasonal and artisanal produce. This evenings dinner will cap off an extraordinary week of gastronomic exploration. (Overnight Buje - San Canzian 5 Star Hotel) B/D
Day 9
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Check-Out | Private TransfersAlas, your land and sea vacation comes to an end. But you will relish the journey as you travel from Istria to Venice to catch your flight home. Bon voyage! B
Luxury Cruiser Yacht
The New Cruiser Yacht Symphony will infuse true luxury into your holiday experience. She bears three separate decks counting a total of 2 VIP Balcony Suites, 2 VIP Terrace Cabins, 4 Main Deck Deluxe Cabins, and 7 Lower Deck Cabins. With total length of more than 164 feet you will have an exquisite journey while also being able to explore beautiful hidden coves, gems of the Adriatic. The Yacht sailed for the first time in 2021 and is the newest addition to the fleet. It is going through an extensive refit in 2024 for a true luxury onboard experience. The yacht features 2 jacuzzies, outdoor gym and sauna, cinema/play room and pool.
VIP Balcony Suite
There are two VIP Suites with private balconies that are each double the size of a standard cabin located on the upper deck. Each Suite has a Sitting Area, Air Conditioning, Wardrobe, Toiletries, Hairdryer, Safe, Cabin TV, Ensuite Bathroom.
VIP Terrace Cabin
There are two VIP Terrace Cabins with private balconies and large terraces located on the upper deck and at the bow of the vessel. Air Conditioning, Wardrobe, Toiletries, Hairdryer, Safe, Cabin TV, Ensuite Bathroom.
Main Deck Deluxe Cabin
There are four Deluxe cabins with large windows located on the Main Deck. Air Conditioning, Wardrobe, Toiletries, Hairdryer, Safe, Cabin TV, Ensuite Bathroom.
Lower Deck Cabin
There are seven cabins on the lower deck. Air Conditioning, Wardrobe, Toiletries, Hairdryer, Safe, Cabin TV, Ensuite Bathroom
San Canzian Village & Hotel - 5 Star
San Canzian is an authentic luxury Village & Hotel, with 24 rooms and suites, situated in a medieval village of Mužolini Donji, near Buje and Grožnjan, a 14th-century Venetian fortress, reborn as the most important art colony in Istria. Our interior design is deeply rooted and inspired by indigenous ways of building, but with modern solutions, and immaculately blended in a medieval exterior setting. All rooms and suites are different, minimal traditional, and inspired by the contemporary luxury and unique charm of the Istrian countryside, offering a one-of-a-kind and sophisticated experience to its guests. When it comes to Food & Drinks, only the best of Istria awaits you at your table. Our gardeners, local farmers and winemakers deliver the best of Istria, while our Chefs at Luciano Restaurant & Bar create perfect gourmet experience for you to enjoy.
The Currency Code is listed directly after the published amount. If it states USD, then the quoted price is in United States Dollars. If it states CAD, then the quoted price is in Canadian Dollars. If it states EUR, then the quoted price is in European Union Dollars…etc. However, please note that all charges are processed in USD, and Epitourean’s Merchant Bank automatically calculates the currency conversion on the day of the charge.
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What does Double Occupancy mean?
Two persons traveling together, and staying in the same room. Tour prices are normally quoted as “per person, double occupancy” in case two people are traveling together and staying in the same room, but paying separately. The cost of the lodging is also shared by two people, thereby reducing costs. This could be a married couple, two friends or relatives.
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What is a Single Supplement?
Whenever a person travels alone, the cost of their lodging cannot be shared by another person. When tour products are priced, they are normally stated as “per person, double occupancy.” Whenever a guest occupies a room as a solo, the whole cost of the lodging must be incurred by that one individual. Tour companies accommodate this by charging a Single Supplement. Epitourean does its best to keep the single supplement as low as possible, but it is a real cost that tour companies must absorb, and must pass along to the single traveler.
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If I am a Solo Traveler, will I be paired with another person?
Epitourean never pairs a solo traveler with another person without a special request. If you book Single Occupancy, you will have a room entirely to yourself. However, should you wish to be paired with another solo traveler to save on the single supplement, you may make this request. We cannot guarantee that we can accommodate such requests, since it would take another solo traveling on the same tour for the same dates. But if requested, we will certainly try.
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Are flights included in the tour price?
No. Flights are never included in the price of our land-only tours. Epitourean does not provide air, rail or sea travel, unless expressly noted in the itinerary.
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May I give a culinary tour as a gift?
Yes. Epitourean has a special program designed specifically for this purpose. Our Gift Packages come with features such as special messages to the recipient, gift box option, gift link (without pricing), and floating dates (should you not know when the gift recipient wants to travel). Contact a Culinary Travel Specialist at 800-390-3292 or customerservice@epitourean.com to receive additional information about this unique offering.
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May we request separate beds if sharing a room?
Yes. In most cases, Epitourean can accommodate a request for two beds to be placed in one room. Just make sure to make this request in the comments section of the reservation process.
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Does each guestroom have a private bathroom?
Yes. Epitourean partners with the best lodging options in each destination, and private (en suite) bathrooms are a requirement. However, you should inquire as to the configuration of bathrooms should you have a special need. For example, some tours include accommodations in medieval villages, where either a shower or bath(but maybe not both) are present.
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Can your tours accommodate my dietary restrictions?
In almost all cases, Epitourean can accommodate dietary choices and restrictions. But we do request that you ask a Culinary Travel Specialist prior to making your reservation so that we can assess your individual situation.
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If I am unable to use a portion of the tour, can I get a partial refund?
Unfortunately, due to vendor and supplier contracts, we are unable to provide partial refunds for unused portions of any tour or tour component.
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Are Transfers included in the Itinerary?
Round-trip transfers from the airport or train station are normally included in our international tours. Transfers to the destination (for both international and domestic tours) are not included in the tour price. Please see the Sample Itinerary. If it mentions that transfers are included, then yes, transfers are included at no additional cost.
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What meals and excursions are included in the tour?
The Sample Itinerary should be your reference. If the meal or excursion is described in the Sample Itinerary, then it is included at no additional charge. For those days where it expressly notes Free time, then any optional activities you elect to participate in might have an additional cost. In addition, if the itinerary states "evening on your own," it would imply that you have the opportunity to visit a restaurant of your own choosing, and at your own expense. If you have any question about inclusions, please submit an inquiry by clicking on the blue "Ask Us a Question" button under the price section.
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Is it possible to book pre or post tours or stays through Edible Destinations?
Yes, we often do have optional 2 and 3 night excursions that are priced separately from the tour. We can also assist with pre and post night stays in a hotel if you choose to come in early before the tour starts, or stay on after a tour ends. The price of those hotel stays are not included in the price of the tour, but we would be happy to provide a quote. Simply ask your Culinary Travel Specialist, or submit an inquiry by clicking on the blue "Ask Us a Question" button.
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Are Guide or Host Gratuities included in the price of the tour?
Since tipping guidelines and customs vary widely between countries, we do not include gratuities in the price of the tour. Your Culinary Travel Specialist can provide you with recommendations. But the general rule is to tip modestly when you are pleased with a guide’s services, either at the end of the tour, or at the conclusion of a specialty day excursion where you will only be with that guide (or chef) on that day.
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Should we plan on any personal expenses during the tour?
All lodging, meals, transfers, classes and excursions mentioned in the Sample Itinerary and Vacation Highlights are included in the price of the tour. However, we highly recommend taking local currency for purchasing personal items, souvenirs, tipping, etc. You can either get the local currency at an airport exchange service, ATM or from your local bank prior to travel. However, you should note that many hosted destinations do not accept credit cards for personal purchases.
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Do you recommend Travel Protection?
We recommend that you purchase a travel protection plan to help protect you and
your travel investment against the unexpected. Travel protection plans can include
coverage for Trip Cancellation, Trip Interruption, Emergency Medical and Emergency
Evacuation/Repatriation, Trip Delay, Baggage Delay and more. For more information
on the available plans or to enroll, click on the link below or contact Travelex
Insurance Services at 800-228-9792 and reference location number 06-0248.
The product descriptions provided here are only brief summaries
and may be changed without notice. The full coverage terms and details, including
limitations and exclusions, are contained in the insurance policy. Travelex CA
Agency License #0D10209. All products listed are underwritten by, Berkshire
Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company (formerly known as Stonewall Insurance Company),
1314 Douglas Street, Suite 1400, Omaha, NE 68102. 11.17 E7N
“
My partner and I had an extraordinary time on the Croatia by land and sea trip. The yacht itself was beautiful with so many lovely amenities and plenty of space for everyone on our tour to relax and socialize. In terms of the itinerary, the trip had a perfect mix of stops through cities and smaller islands, with plenty of time sailing along the way. There was a lovely array of dining experiences included, with an emphasis on traditional and modern Croatian cuisine. One of the biggest highlights for us was probably the multi-course truffle lunch with a stunning view overlooking Istria from a hilltop town of Motovun. We also thoroughly enjoyed the Gala Walls dinner in Dubrovnik as well as the dining experience that we had at a charming family restaurant tucked away in the woods on the island of Korčula. The itinerary also included a traditional cooking class in Split. We prepared multi courses and was really an enjoyable hands on learning experience as we prepared many local fresh product. At the end, we had plenty of time to enjoy the fruits of our labor. I would highly recommend this tour to others and will be reminiscing on the memories for a long time to come.
Gifts and Gift Cards
The product descriptions provided here are only brief summaries
and may be changed without notice. The full coverage terms and details, including
limitations and exclusions, are contained in the insurance policy. Travelex CA
Agency License #0D10209. All products listed are underwritten by, Berkshire
Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company (formerly known as Stonewall Insurance Company),
1314 Douglas Street, Suite 1400, Omaha, NE 68102. 11.17 E7N
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