Northern Adriatic: Gems of the Dalmatian CoastItinerary

Day 1: En Route from U.S.
Monday, July 28, 2025

Day 2: Arrive in Dubrovnik, Croatia – Embarkation
Tuesday, July 29, 2025
Upon arriving at Dubrovnik Ruđer Bošković Airport an Orbridge representative will be waiting to assist with your transfer to the vessel for embarkation.

Le Bougainville is a masterpiece of luxury cruising. This floating haven features spacious and elegantly appointed staterooms and impeccably designed public spaces. As embarkation begins, take time to unpack and become familiar with your accommodations.

Among the vessel's unique features is the Blue Eye Lounge, an innovative and immersive underwater observation area featuring large, curved windows that provide views of the subaquatic environment. The lounge is a multi-sensory experience—you can feel the ocean's vibrations through the seats and listen for marine sounds using the hydrophone headsets. Visit the reception desk on board to schedule time to visit the Blue Eye Lounge, as hours of operation vary and guest capacity is limited.

This evening gather with fellow travel companions for a special welcome reception to celebrate the exciting journey ahead.
Overnight: Le Bougainville (R,D)

Day 3: Kotor, Montenegro
Wednesday, July 30, 2025
Sail south to the stunning Bay of Kotor for an exciting day of exploration. Choose between one of the following three excursions.

CHOICE 1: Join a local guide for a walking tour of Kotor's iconic landmarks including the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon. Built in 1166, the cathedral was dedicated to Kotor's patron saint, Saint Tryphon—with its twin towers and Romanesque architecture dominating the skyline. Step inside to peruse the rich collection of religious artifacts, frescoes and the beautifully decorated altar. The cathedral also houses an impressive array of relics including a silver casket containing the remains of Saint Tryphon.

CHOICE 2 (additional fee): A visit to a local mussel and oyster farm offers a unique and delicious experience. Kotor’s pristine waters and favorable climate create ideal conditions for aquaculture. During a tour, learn the traditional methods of shellfish farming and cultivation, which have been passed down through generations. Then be seated for a tasting accompanied by local wine, a true sampling of the Adriatic’s bounty.

CHOICE 3 (additional fee): Embark on a boat tour to one of the Adriatic’s most enchanting natural wonders—the Blue Cave. Located on the Lustica Peninsula, this alluring sea cave is renowned for its mesmerizing blue hues created by sunlight reflecting off the sandy bottom through the water. Take advantage of the unique opportunity to swim while inside the cave as the shimmering light creates an otherworldly ambiance. For those who prefer not to swim, simply admiring the cave from the boat is equally captivating.

This evening on board, delight in a gourmet dinner crafted from locally sourced ingredients expertly paired with exquisite wines.
Overnight: Le Bougainville (B,L,D)

Day 4: Hvar, Croatia
Thursday, July 31, 2025
Today immerse yourself in the spiritual and historical significance of Hvar during a guided walking tour. Begin in the town center at the Benedictine Monastery. Founded in the 17th century, this site is best known for its tradition of lacemaking, a craft passed down through generations of Benedictine nuns. The lace, made from agave fibers, is so exquisite that it has been recognized by UNESCO as part of the world's intangible cultural heritage. Tour the monastery's peaceful cloisters and chapel, and visit the small museum showcasing intricate lace pieces, historical artifacts and religious art.

Continue to the Franciscan Monastery—a beautiful example of Dalmatian Renaissance architecture—along the waterfront. Built in the 15th century, the monastery complex features a church, cloister and bell tower plus an interior adorned with a remarkable collection of art including a 16th-century painting of the Last Supper by Venetian artist Matteo Ingoli.

This afternoon choose between two optional activities.

CHOICE 1 (additional fee): Visit Carić Winery for a lovely tasting. Gain insight into the winery's various vineyard plots and varieties of grapes cultivated from each based on the soil and growing conditions.

CHOICE 2 (additional fee): Join a local guide for a tour of Stari Grad's highlights. Founded by the ancient Greeks in 384 BC as Pharos, Stari Grad ("Old Town" in Croatian) is a treasure trove of archaeological sites, charming stone houses and scenic landscapes. The Stari Grad Plain, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a remarkably well-preserved agricultural landscape that dates back to the Greek colonization. This area, with its stone walls and plots, has been continuously cultivated for over 2,400 years. Tvrdalj Castle is one of Stari Grad’s most iconic landmarks. This fortified Renaissance mansion was the summer residence of the famous Croatian poet Petar Hektorović. The Stari Grad Museum offers a comprehensive overview of the town’s rich history with a robust collection of archaeological relics from the Greek and Roman periods.
Overnight: Le Bougainville (B,L,D)

Day 5: Split
Friday, August 1, 2025
Welcome to Split, the largest city on Croatia's Dalmatian coast. The day features two exciting excursion options.

CHOICE 1 (additional fee): On this full-day adventure, depart by small boat for a tour of the Blue Lagoon's coves and inlets. Enjoy additional time to lounge on the sandy beach or wade through the crystal waters—this piece of paradise is utterly captivating.

CHOICE 2: Alternatively set off on a guided walking tour through Old Town's maze of narrow, cobbled streets. The area is centered around Diocletian's Palace, an ancient Roman palace built for the Emperor Diocletian at the turn of the 4th century AD.

Beneath the bustling streets discover the Cellars of Diocletian's Palace, a series of well-preserved underground chambers that once supported the palace above. The subterranean halls and passageways were originally used for storage and as the foundation for the emperor’s residential quarters.

Continue to the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, one of the oldest cathedrals in the world still in use in its original structure. Originally built as Diocletian’s mausoleum in the 4th century, it was converted into a Christian cathedral in the 7th century dedicated to Saint Domnius, the patron saint of Split. Inside marvel at the stunning wooden doors carved by 13th-century sculptor and painter Andrija Buvina, and the ornate pulpit and beautiful altar.

Next visit the Ethnographic Museum to peruse exhibits that feature traditional costumes, textiles, tools and household items that illustrate the daily life and customs of the local people over the centuries. Venture up to the rooftop terrace to capture remarkable views of the coast.

After the walking tour you may:

CHOICE 1: Explore Split independently.

CHOICE 2 (additional fee): Gather in a Roman square for an indulgent tasting of local products. Sample from an assortment of olive oil, olives, cheese, meat and a variety of wine.

Tonight after dinner stop by the on-board theater for live entertainment—perhaps a dance performance, live concert or a film on the big screen.
Overnight: Le Bougainville (B,L,D)

Day 6: Brijuni Islands
Saturday, August 2, 2025
After breakfast relish in a relaxing day at the beach to swim and soak up the sunshine. You may also opt to join the optional half-day excursion.

CHOICE 1 (additional fee): Explore part of the diverse archipelago of Brijuni National Park. Reach Veliki Brijun, the largest of the 14 islands, by boat then board a small train towards Verige Bay to see the Roman Villa—one of the most significant archaeological sites on the islands. This sprawling complex dates back to the 1st century BC and includes well-preserved remains of luxurious Roman baths, temples and residential areas. Continue to the island's safari park to see zebras, Somali sheep, dromedaries, llamas and elephants. Finally enjoy some free time before returning to the ship.

Back on board take time to freshen up before visiting the main lounge for snacks and beverages accompanied by live music.
Overnight: Le Bougainville (B,L,D)

Day 7: Ravenna, Italy
Sunday, August 3, 2025
Following breakfast choose one of two optional excursions.

CHOICE 1 (additional fee): Depart late morning for a guided tour of Ferrara, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Renaissance gem. Ferrara’s history dates back to Roman times but it rose to prominence in the 13th century under the rule of the Este family. The Este dynasty transformed the town into a major cultural and artistic center, attracting artists, scholars and architects who contributed to its Renaissance glory. Explore Estense Castle, originally a defensive fortress that was transformed into a luxurious residence. Inside see the Ducal Apartments, the Hall of Games and the dungeons.

CHOICE 2: Discover Ravenna's enchanting blend of ancient and medieval splendor during a guided tour. Once the capital of the Western Roman Empire, Ravenna boasts a rich cultural heritage. See the Basilica di San Vitale—one of Ravenna’s most famous landmarks, and a masterpiece of Byzantine art and architecture. Completed in 547 AD, this octagonal basilica is celebrated for its intricate mosaics that depict biblical scenes, saints and emperors. Continue to the Basilica di Sant'Apollinare Nuovo, originally built in the early 6th century by Theodoric the Great. Inside see magnificent mosaic panels that offer a visual journey through early Christian iconography.

Following the Ravenna tour in the afternoon, you may choose to join an additional optional excursion.

CHOICE 1 (additional fee): Visit Pomposa Abbey, a historic Benedictine monastery that was once one of the most influential monastic centers in Italy. The impressive structure features an intricate façade, colorful mosaics, a prominent bell tower, and a museum that houses a collection of artifacts, manuscripts and artwork illustrating the history and cultural contributions of the monastery.

Alternatively enjoy leisure time on board the ship.
Overnight: Le Bougainville (B,L,D)

Day 8: Ravenna 
Monday, August 4, 2025
Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region has a deep historical legacy dating back to ancient times. The region was a significant part of the Roman Empire, and remnants of its Roman past can still be seen in its cities.

Today select between two optional excursions.

CHOICE 1: During a full-day guided city tour, discover the historic and cultural highlights of Bologna. Piazza Maggiore's expansive square is a hub of activity and a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. Situated in the square is the Basilica di San Petronio, one of Bologna’s most important and imposing churches. Inside the Gothic basilica find vaulted ceilings and a sundial designed by the astronomer Giovanni Domenico Cassini. Continue to the Archiginnasio, once the main building of the University of Bologna. Built in the mid-16th century under the papacy of Pope Pius IV, the Archiginnasio served as the central hub for university activities until the early 19th century.

CHOICE 2 (additional fee): Delight in a tapestry of flavors during a full-day excursion tasting local products of the Emilia-Romagna region. Enjoy the delicate flavor and tender texture of prosciutto. And experience the complex flavor profile of the area's iconic balsamic vinegar, which is created from artisanal production processes that are rooted in centuries-old traditions.

The final evening on board, gather for a lively farewell reception followed by a convivial gala dinner to commemorate this epic adventure cruising the Adriatic.
Overnight: Le Bougainville (B,L,R,D)

Day 9: Venice – Disembarkation | Depart for U.S.
Tuesday, August 5, 2025
After breakfast guests departing during the suggested times will take a complimentary transfer to the airport for flights home. (B)

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, R = Reception

Tour days tend to be long, flow at a consistent pace and may include long periods of travel. Guests should be prepared to walk longer distances, climb stairs and tolerate periods of standing, for example on city walks, sightseeing stops or ship excursions, on sometimes uneven surfaces including cobblestones or unpaved pathways and trails. Some destinations may have variations in altitude and/or temperature. Daily pace and timing may vary significantly between longer and shorter travel days, with additional activities possibly occurring in the early morning or evening. Guests are expected to board transportation without assistance. Elevators are not always available at accommodations or sites visited.