Silversea Luxury Cruises A ZADAR

Experience a slice of life on the Adriatic coast during this panoramic, half-day sightseeing and tasting excursion.

Novigrad Town and Sea, Churches, Fortica Fortress, Novigrad Homeland Museum, Free Time

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 45-minute drive to historic Novigrad, a picturesque, well-preserved medieval town located on a long, steep bay on the southern coast of the Novigrad Sea. Its old centre lies on the northeast side of the bay, on the slopes of a hill under the Fortica Fortress and surrounded by ramparts. Upon arrival, take a guided walking tour. Learn about the history of Novigrad, which dates from the Bronze Age, and explore its rich cultural heritage. Highlights include the Church of St. Nicholas, Church of St. Kate, Fortica Fortress and Novigrad Homeland Museum, which exhibits many valuable arts, crafts, and treasures from Roman and Byzantine times. Following your guided tour, some free time is made available to explore the town at your leisure.

Nadin Village, Odzakovic Rural Estate

Next, re-board your coach and head to Nadin Village. Upon arrival, proceed for a visit to the Odzakovic Rural Estate, a rural tourism farmhouse surrounded by 360 acres (about 145 hectares) of organic vineyards, various fields of crops, and paths for walking and trekking surrounded by farm animals, birds, rabbits and other animals. Upon arrival at the property, marvel at the beauty of the traditional stone architecture of the building and staircase leading to the heart of the house; a little museum of the Odzakovic family, filled with interesting exhibits and rare traditional artefacts dating from 1835.

Odzakovic Family Visit, Guided Tour and Tasting of Dalmatian Specialities

During your visit inside the farmhouse, enjoy a tasting of delicious, homemade Dalmatian specialities prepared and served by the Odzakovic family, and learn about the traditional way of life in the heart of Ravni Kotari. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 45-minute drive back to the pier.

Embrace the pristine natural beauty of Paklenica National Park in a unique new way during this scenic and invigorating hiking excursion.

Starigrad Paklenica

Depart the pier for the approximate 45-minute drive to Starigrad Paklenica, a picturesque town and harbour located on the southern part of Velebit Mountain. Upon arrival, proceed to Paklenica National Park.

Paklenica National Park

Declared a national park in 1949, Paklenica spans approximately 37 square miles (about 95 square kilometres), and is highlighted by a legendary peak, Anica Kuk, on its 1,312-foot (400-metre) face. Its summit offers spectacular vistas of the coast, sea, Paklenica and the peaks of Velebit Mountain. The park also features a pair of picturesque canyons, Mala (Small) and Velika (Large) Paklenica. Velika Paklenica Canyon is approximately 8.7 miles (about 14 kilometres) long and 1,640-2,625 feet (500-800 metres) wide. Its defining characteristic is the steep drop from Anica Luka, which measures approximately 2.5 miles (about four kilometres) from its base.

Canyon Hike

After receiving your tour and safety instructions, begin your guided hike through Paklenica's Karst River Canyon, located in the foreground of the magnificent Velika & Mala Paklenica canyons. The karst is an area of exceptional natural beauty and various geological formations. Cliffs, caves, holes and cracks abound, and the dissolution of soluble rock has created natural works of art known as 'skrape'.

Anica Luka

Your hike winds through the Paklenica Karst River Canyon and uphill towards Anica Luka, with a few stops en route. Upon arrival at Anica Luka, a stop is made for refreshments, snacks and splendid panoramic views of your surroundings (weather dependent). Afterward, commence the 1.5-hour return walk back to the valley, then board your awaiting bus at the park entrance. Your Silver Shore Expedition tour concludes with a 45-minute drive back to the pier.

Discover the Medieval treasures of Zadar during this memorable guided stroll through the city's Old Town.

Depart the pier on foot and commence your guided walking tour of Zadar. The city walls of Zadar attest to its long history of warding off would-be conquerors and rulers, including the Venetians and the Turks. Upon entering the heart of the Old Town, explore the highlights of this magnificent city.

Cathedral of St. Anastasia

Your first stop is a visit to the Cathedral of St. Anastasia, the finest example of Romanesque architecture in Zadar. The cathedral was built during the 12th and 13th centuries on the site of an early Christian basilica. It is dedicated to St. Anastasia, whose stone sarcophagus is located in the apse to the left of the high altar.

Church of St. Donatus

Further along, pass by the Church of St. Donatus, believed to have been built by Bishop Donatus on Roman foundations at the beginning of the 9th century. This is the most monumental church on the Eastern Adriatic, and features a round shape with three naves.

St. Mary Church

To the east of the Forum is the 16th-century St. Mary Church, which features a Romanseque bell-tower built at the beginning of the 12th century by the Hungarian-Croatian King Koloman. On the upper floor of the convent, there are public rooms containing a collection of goldsmiths' work, relics and other valuable artefacts. Following your guided walking tour, some free time is made available to explore the Old Town at your leisure before returning to the pier on foot.

Take a scenic drive via coach and see a glorious natural phenomenon as you travel along the Adriatic coast towards the northern Dalmatia, the two equally beautiful and yet so very different shades of blue. On one side is the well stunning Adriatic coast, famous for its alluring beauty and clear sea, and on the other side is Vrana Lake, the largest natural lake in Croatia.

Vrana Lake

Declared a Nature Park in 1999, Vrana Lake (also called Vransko Lake) possesses rare natural habitats, fresh water springs and boasts extraordinary biodiversity. The largest lake in Croatia, Vrana is a hot-spot for birders, with 256 recorded bird species, of which 102 nest in the park area. Four bird species that nest here are considered endangered on the European level and seven on national level. For some of these birds Vrana Lake is the only nesting area in the entire Mediterranean part of Croatia. The park area is also an important resting and feeding place for a whole range of endangered European species. More than 100,000 waterbirds come here to spend the winter.

Enjoy a guided walk along Vrana Lake and experience some bird watching with your provided binoculars. The dominating characteristic of Vrana Lake Nature Park is its special Ornithological reserve, which received its title in 1983 because of its well preserved huge reed-patch in the north-western part of the lake as well for its immense biodiversity, and extraordinary scientific and ecological value. The reserve has been included in the list of Important Bird Areas in Europe and became Ramsar site in 2013.

Maskovica Han

Next take a short drive to see Maskovica Han, the most western Ottoman monument in Europe. The han was a caravanserai, a resting place for individuals traveling in caravans, serving as hostel as well as a residence in the 17^th century. The name of the place originates from a local dignitary, Jusuf Maskovic, who rose to the position of admiral and commander of the Turkish empire fleet. The han consists of a rectangular complex of buildings surrounding a courtyard, and is considered an important monument of Turkish secular architecture. You will be given some free time to explore the fortification at your own pace.

Kamenjak Hill & Snack

Leaving the Maskovica Han, re-board your coach and drive to a panoramic view point, Kamenjak Hill where you will enjoy a tasty snack. Kamenjak boasts one of the most beautiful views in Croatia, from which you can see the whole Vrana Lake, Kornati archipelago, Murter, Pirovac, Drage, Pakoštane. Rejoin your coach for the return drive back to Zadar.

Embrace the exquisite natural beauty of Croatia during this picturesque, half-day excursion to Krka National Park.

Krka National Park

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 1.25-hour drive to Krka National Park. One of seven national parks in Croatia, Krka spans an area of 35,143 acres (14,222 hectares), and has specific characteristics of natural, human and cultural values, particularly geological, geomorphologic, hydrological, biological, and landscape elements. In addition, the Krka River is a distinctive phenomenon due its specific biocenosis and formation of gypsum barriers. The entire park is rich with endemic species of vegetation, birds and fish. Due to very strong laws regarding natural preservation, this extraordinary area has been preserved in its original form. The park is perhaps most famous for its Krka River Waterfalls, which cascade over 17 natural barriers.

Skradinski Buk Waterfalls, Viewing Plateau, Ethnological Exhibit, and Old Mill

Upon arrival, take a guided walking of Krka National Park. Along the way, a visit is made to the most attractive part of the park, the Skradinski Buk Waterfalls. The highest fall is approximately 151 feet (about 46-meters) in height, which makes it the highest gypsum barrier in Europe. Above the falls is a large plateau that offers spectacular panoramic vistas of your surrounds. Around the falls there is a gravel trail for those who wish to explore the surroundings further. Whilst exploring the park, a visit is also made to a small ethnological exhibition and the Old Mill, which is still in operation. Here, you can view a demonstration of how it was used for grinding.

Refreshments and Free Time

Following your guided tour, proceed for a refreshment stop. Afterward, some free time is made available to explore the park at your leisure, and/or swim in the inviting waters of the river and falls. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board the coach and commence the approximately 1.25-hour drive back to the pier.

The Croatian gastronomy, especially along the coast and on the islands, is based on the tradition of home-grown Mediterranean food. Staples include vegetables, olive oil, fish, shells, wine, goat and sheep cheese, citrus fruit, marasca cherries, grapes, figs and almonds. And of course, every Croatian meal is accompanied by a delicious Croatian wine.

Your Host - Ante and Silvana Roca

Ante and Silvana Roca's dream came to life on their country estate, where they planted a small olive grove and a vineyard, accompanied by a modern pig farm. They went on to build an impressive stone building with several connected houses and cottages surrounding a spacious patio.

Visit the Roca Family Farm, Learn about the prosciutto production, Sample local products and enjoy in a delicious lunch prepared with homemade ingredients

Depart Zadar for an approximately 1-hour drive to Roca Place. Your Dalmatian S.A.L.T. experience begins at the pig farm, where you will receive a warm welcome from your hosts and some introductory talk about pig breeding. Pass by the enclosed stone houses where you can see various types of poultry and domestic rabbits.

After walking through the fig trees and a vineyard, come upon a beautiful olive grove with massive, handmade stone tables. Upon arrival, sample homemade brandy - cherry liqueur for ladies, and herbalist for the gentlemen. Snack on savory charcuterie offerings such as prosciutto, bacon, salami and more.

The stone steps from the olive grove lead to the central area of the property. Explore the ethno stone cottages - featuring a slice of old Dalmatian life - complete with shops, a kitchen and an open roaster. Your host will introduce the preparation of each meal, to be enjoyed during your included lunch. Dine al fresco on the covered terrace in the center of the farm.

At the conclusion of your local culinary experience, re-board your coach for your return drive back to the pier.

Enjoy your day island hopping and sailing across the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic Sea. Departing from Zadar, take a scenic approximately one hour sail through Zadar channel, Mali Zdrelac passage toward Sabusa beach.

Sailing, Sabusa Beach, Swimming & Free Time

The first stop is made at Sabusa beach where you can spend your time swimming, sunbathing or snorkeling. Afterward, sail to Kukljica, a small village on the island of Ugljan. Kukljica is situated near the Strait of Zdrelac and is considered the door to Telascica Nature Park and Kornati National Park. The old portion of the village, with its original examples of folk architecture, is divided from the tourist peninsula of "Zelena punta" by a large cove with a small port that is always teeming with fishing boats and wooden sail boats. Enjoy some free time in Kukljica village before boarding your sailboat for your next stop.

Sailing, Lunch, Osjak Island & Swimming

Lunch is served on board the sailing boat as the excursion heads to the island of Osljak. This island has a surface of just half a square kilometer and is the smallest permanently inhabited island on the Adriatic. It has a protected landscape where olives, pinewoods and cypresses give shade to the rocky beaches. The old fishing port with a church from the 5^th century is one of the most colorful places in the whole Adriatic. Relax and swim for approximately 30-minutes before your next jaunt to Preko village.

Ugljan Island, Preko Village & Free Time

Set for a short sail to Ugljan Island and visit Preko Village. This village's old center consists of typical Dalmatian architecture and numerous patrician family summer houses. The best way to feel the Mediterranean atmosphere is by walking along the quay or sipping a favorite drink on one of the terraces with a view of the Zadar Channel. Here you will have time for swiming or strolling through the village.

Rejoin your sailing boat and continue back to Zadar.

Explore Zadar at your leisure during a full-day (8 Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Zadar at your leisure during a half-day (4 Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Zadar at your leisure during your choice full-day (8 Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car or van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Zadar at your leisure during your half-day (4 Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore the legacy, landmarks and flavours of Zadar during a scenic walking tour through the historic Old Town.

Old Town of Zadar and Cathedral of St. Anastasia

Depart the pier for a scenic, approximately two-hour guided walking tour through the heart of Zadar's magnificent Old Town. Your first stop is at the Cathedral of St. Anastasia, which dates from 1324 and is the finest example of Romanesque architecture in Zadar. It is dedicated to St. Anastasia, whose stone sarcophagus is in the apse to the left of the high altar.

Churches of St. Donatus and St. Mary

Leaving the Cathedral of St. Anastasia, your stroll continues past the Church of St. Donatus, which is believed to have been built by Bishop Donatus on Roman foundations at the beginning of the 9th century. The most monumental church on the east side of the Adriatic, the Church of St. Donatus is circular in plan, with three naves. To the east of the Forum is the 16th-century Church of St. Mary, which features a Romanesque bell tower built at the beginning of the 12th century by the Hungarian-Croatian King Koloman. Visit the upper floor of the convent to explore rooms containing a collection of goldsmiths' works, relics and other valuable items.

Liqueur Tasting

Next, explore the 400-year-old legacy, uses, production, and bottling of maraschino and cherry brandies during a liqueur tasting accompanied by cherry cake. At the conclusion of your tour, commence the short walk back to the pier.

Explore the splendid coastal beauty, history and flavours of Zadar during this scenic, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Nin Salt Works, Museum and Old Town

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 30-minute drive to the Nin Salt Works. Here, salt is not produced by man, nor machine; it is produced by the sun, sea and wind. The salt from Nin is ecological, therapeutic and biodynamic. The surrounds include diverse wildlife, plenty of beaches and healing mud. During your visit, stop by the Salt Museum. Here, view black-and-white photos from the past, old tools for work, and wagons utilised to carry the salt from the salt pans to the salt depository. In addition, you can play an interactive video game, and view a model of the unique nature reserve and documentary film. Following your tour, re-board your coach and proceed to Nin's Old Town, located on a small island in the middle of a lagoon. Visit the town's centre, which is connected to the mainland by two stone bridges.

Royal Vineyards Tour and Tasting

Next, re-board your coach and ascend the picturesque hills, home to the Royal Vineyards. The vineyards were erected in extreme conditions, on the rocky soil. Upon arrival, take a guided walking tour. Along the way, learn how the quality grapes from the stone vineyards and excellent tasting wines are the results of a special microclimate, its position by the sea and direct sun exposure. Following your guided tour, proceed for a tasting of wines produced at the Royal Vineyards.

Old Town of Zadar, Historic and Cultural Monuments and Churches

Leaving the Royal Vineyards, re-board your coach and drive to Zadar. Upon arrival, take a guided walking tour of Zadar's Old Town. Along the way, discover a host of historical and cultural monuments, including the Cathedral of St. Anastasia. Built in 1324, the Cathedral is the finest example of Romanesque architecture in Zadar and largest church in all of Dalmatia. Continue past the Church of St. Donatus, thought to have been built at the beginning of the 9th century, and the 16th-century St. Mary Church with its Romanesque bell tower, built at the beginning of the 12th century. Following your tour, some free time is made available to explore the Old Town at your leisure.