Discover Malta’s millennia of history and visit ancient UNESCO sites. Explore Croatia’s captivating coastline and some of the great iconic cities of antiquity. Stroll the majestic city walls of Dubrovnik and visit Diocletian’s Palace. Or immerse yourself in nature and the great outdoors during a visit to Krka National Park. Join us for a fascinating journey as you witness rolling landscapes and ancient architectural treasures along Adriatic shores.
Arrive in Valletta today and embark your ship. Take in the city’s breathtaking setting from the deck or from your veranda. Our overnight stay here gives you more time in port to fully experience this lesser-known Mediterranean island gem.
Explore the humble facades of Malta’s churches and view grand palaces that hide extravagant interiors of marble, tapestries and paintings. During a stroll around the city’s walls and bastions, take in the magnificent bird’s-eye view over the spectacular Grand Harbor. At St. John’s Co-Cathedral, learn about the city’s ties to the Knights of Malta and their emergence as a military order during the Crusades. The legacy of Britain’s rule is evident across the island; while Malta remains a republic, the island today is a member state of the Commonwealth of Nations.
As you sail to your next port, spend the day savoring the amenities of your elegant ship. Indulge in Nordic-inspired treatments at The Spa or find your inner calm with some yoga on the Sports Deck. Tonight, dine on thoughtfully prepared cuisine that connects you to the flavors of the Mediterranean and watch a movie beneath the stars at the Main Pool.
Spend the day traversing the medieval streets of this historic Montenegrin town with a walking tour. Pass by Venetian walls constructed in 1420 en route to the Cathedral of St. Tryphon, built in 1166. Notice its mismatched towers, the result of an earthquake and a budget too small to rebuild properly. Included on this tour is a visit to the Maritime Museum, which documents Kotor’s heritage. Alternatively, on an optional tour, venture to the small towns of Budva and Sveti Stefan, the latter once a hideaway for the rich and famous.
Where city meets coastline, you will sail to this beautiful 12th-century walled city in Croatia. Enjoy an entire day and take in magnificent views of the city and countryside. Admire the historic Pile Gate, view the Sponza Palace, see the 15th-century Onofrio’s Fountain and stop inside the Dominican Monastery to see Renaissance paintings. You may also wish to consider exploring the famed Dubrovnik Riviera with a stroll in charming Cavtat; originally a Greek settlement called Epidaurus, it was founded around 228 BC.
Experience the age of antiquity as you wander through the center of the city that is built around the Diocletian Palace. In this historic quarter, you will notice the results of over 17 centuries of construction, passing pre-Romanesque churches and Gothic chapels. You may also choose more natural pursuits, from a rafting trip on the Cetina River or a journey through the Croatian hinterland to the famous waterfalls of the Krka National Park. Or spend the entire day discovering the small, more intimate destinations along the Dalmatian Coast.
Explore remarkable Zadar, once an island separated from the mainland by a deep moat. The capital of independent Dalmatia for a millennium, Zadar’s impressive city walls attest to its might. A walking tour leads you along a maze of cobblestone streets through its magnificent Old Town, a remarkable repository of red-roofed, medieval stone houses. During your excursion, stop to admire its three stunning churches in bold Romanesque. Or perhaps you will journey into Croatia’s countryside and discover her natural splendor.
Sail the scenic St. Anthony Channel into the oldest Croatian city on the Dalmatian Coast, Šibenik. Resting at the mouth of the Krka River, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has a remarkably preserved Old Town. Roam its narrow streets past medieval houses and churches, all surrounded by four historic fortresses. The city’s St. James Cathedral is the most important Renaissance structure in Croatia. Perhaps you will join an excursion to explore the impressive Vrana Lake Nature Park and enjoy its wildlife.
Enjoy a day on board as you sail the Adriatic Sea. Take in the sea views from the Explorers’ Lounge or reserve a soothing massage at The Spa. Linger over tea and scones in the Wintergarden or soak up the sun on deck.
Visit Gozo today, the second largest island in Malta’s archipelago. It is filled with historic gems, such as the Ggantija temple complex, which are considered to be the oldest freestanding structures in the world. Witness Calypso’s Cave—featured in Homer’s epic The Odyssey—showcasing magnificent Mediterranean views from its perch above a beautiful red-sand beach. Gozo’s capital, Victoria, is a delight to explore on foot; the imposing Cittadella looms above and is one of Malta’s cultural treasures.
Disembark your ship and journey home.
* One shore excursion included per port as indicated (included); all others available at an extra charge. Depending on your stateroom category, shore excursions may be reserved beginning 90 days before your cruise sails. Not all excursions will be available for all sailings. Full details of the excursions available on your specific departure date can be viewed at My Viking Journey once your cruise booking has been made.
