Award-winning small ship cruise specialist and DMC Katarina Line is reporting rising interest in its popular Cycle & Cruise programs 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 small villages and bays. Other highlights include tours of vineyards, pine woods and natural attractions, such as Mljet National Park, 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 measures 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.”
Going South
Katarina Line’s 7-day round-trip “Bike Split South” departs from Split and includes guided tours of the island of Brač, Hvar, the Pelješac Peninsula in southern Dalmatia, as well as Mljet, Korčula and Šolta, before returning to Split. Cycling routes include the coastal road of the northern part of the island of Brač, which passes old-world fishing villages before arriving in Pučišća. Pučišća is often called “one of the prettiest villages in Croatia,” thanks to its white limestone and scenic bay. Guests will also enjoy cycling to Orebić on the Pelješac Peninsula. The port town is known for its waterfront that is lined with houses and exotic gardens built by the sea captains who made the town prosperous in 18th century.
Guests will also 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 Korčula, guests will cycle through numerous olive groves and vineyards that include one of the most famous grape varieties, Pošip. A visit to Hvar includes an exploration of its architecture. They will also 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 7-day round-trip “Bike Opatija” cruises lead cyclists on a tour around the stunning Kvarner Bay, among other locations Launching from Opatija, guests will explore the islands of Krk, Rab, and Pag, the latter which is known for its barren, moonlike landscape. They will also explore the islands of Ilovik, Lošinj, and Cres, famous for its 16th-century Venetian Tower and Arsan Palace, before returning to Opatija.
Itinerary also includes cycling from Krk Island to Cres Island. Along the way, guests will discover the islands’ stunning coastlines, medieval towns, old villages and charming bays. They will also be introduced to dazzling beaches, green vineyards, pine wood forests, and unique coastal towns steep in history as they cycle around the historic islands.
“After months of sheltering at home, travelers are eager to ‘hit the open road’ again,” said Hauptfeld. “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.”
Bike and Cruise programs sailings on wooden ships and feature cabins with private shower/toilet, mostly bunk beds, air-conditioned salon, and professional guides. Prices include continental breakfasts, choice of three-course lunches or dinner, with children under 10 at 50% off. Prices are based on the current exchange rate for the Euro and subject to change. All departures are guaranteed.
