There are dozens of small ships cruising the Dalmatian coast each summer, and they are not all equal. After reviewing the 2027 programme, we narrowed our recommendation to two vessels: M/S Ambassador and Mama Marija II. Both carry a small number of guests, both sail the same route on the same dates, and both attract a well-travelled international crowd.
The route
Cruises run one-way on Saturdays from late April to mid-October 2027, in either direction. Sailing from Split, the week takes in Trogir, Split, Milna, Bol on Brač, Vis, the Blue Cave on Biševo, Hvar, Korčula, Mljet National Park and Slano before arriving in Dubrovnik. The reverse route ends in Trogir. Most days include a swim stop in a quiet bay.
Why these two ships
We rate both as 4-star superior. The real difference is the VIP cabins. M/S Ambassador has three: No. 17 on the main deck at 20 m², and Nos. 18 and 19 on the upper deck. Mama Marija II has one VIP cabin, No. 19 at 17 m², and it is usually the first cabin to go. If a VIP cabin matters to you, book early.
One point we always share with clients: the operator can swap vessels if a cruise is chartered by a group. We recommend M/S Ambassador, but no one can guarantee a specific ship until the sailing is confirmed.
Prices for 2027
Prices are per person, two sharing, for seven nights. Standard cabins start at €1,790 in the opening weeks, main deck cabins at €2,550 and VIP cabins at €3,050. Peak dates rise to €3,350, €4,200 and €4,850. The full season-by-season table is on our Croatian island cruises page.
- Save up to 20% when you book by 1 November 2026
- The biggest early-bird saving falls between 10 July and 21 August
- A €300 per person deposit confirms your cabin, and the balance is due 60 days before departure
- Port and tourist taxes of €60 per person are paid on board in cash
What we add
The cruise covers your cabin, meals on board and guided tours in the main towns. We arrange everything around it: private transfers to and from the port, a hotel night in Split or Dubrovnik before or after, a private boat to the Blue Cave, and restaurant tables ashore. You can pay in fiat or crypto.
Frequently asked questions
How many nights are the Croatian island cruises?
Each cruise is seven nights, one-way, between Split and Dubrovnik in either direction, departing on Saturdays.
When is the 2027 season?
Sailings run from 24 April to 16 October 2027. The opening and closing weeks are the best value.
What is the difference between standard, main deck and VIP cabins?
Standard cabins are on the lower deck. Main deck cabins have larger windows. VIP cabins are the largest, and there are only three on M/S Ambassador and one on Mama Marija II.
Can I pay for a cruise in crypto?
Yes. We accept fiat and crypto, and we send a clear invoice for every booking.
