Both river and coastal cruising are hugely popular at the moment. However, most people focus on where they’re going rather than the differences between the types of ships and the experiences they offer. Look closely; there are plenty of differences between river and coastal cruising, probably more than you expect. Discover what sets river and coastal cruising apart and which might be the best option for your holiday.

Ocean Ships Carry More Passengers

Coastal vessels often carry passengers in the thousands, whereas river cruisers are much smaller, with passenger numbers in the low hundreds, sometimes two hundred or less. More passengers means bigger and better facilities - compare the splash pool on a river cruiser with the swimming pool on a coastal vessel or the gym. However, more people do mean less space and privacy. Some river cruises in Europe deliberately favour small and intimate vessels that better suit certain rivers.

Cabin Size

It makes sense that if river ships are smaller with fewer passengers, then so are the cabins and staterooms. However, there’s always the option to choose a deluxe suite with a lounge. However, a significant advantage of river cruisers compared to coastal vessels is that most companies design their ships always to have water-facing accommodation. On coastal vessels, a percentage of cabins won’t have a view. Always check out deck plans carefully on river cruisers, as cabins vary enormously in size between the different lines. Newer vessels will also have balconies and panoramic windows.

Dining Options

Coastal ships are larger, so there are more dining options; some people like to eat in a different venue every night. River cruisers tend to have one formal restaurant and then something more casual, and that’s it. There is a tendency toward more buffet-style eating on river cruisers, so breakfast and lunch are often buffet only, with the only formal multi-course meal in the evening. However, some river cruisers are now offering room service. Whether you’re river or coastal cruising, check out how many port calls are on the itinerary, as this is an opportunity for the chefs to stock up on fresh, local produce and produce delicious regional dishes.

Port Itineraries

River cruising can be really full on, with a different port every day offering several excursions. The tours are optional but can make for a jam-packed holiday. Coastal cruising, in comparison, will have days at sea where passengers can enjoy the amenities of the ship and the pleasure of being on the ocean with just beautiful views for company. River cruisers are smaller vessels, so they can often access port stops that larger coastal vessels can’t. This can make a big difference to the visitor experience when you sail into the heart of cities like Paris.

Final Thoughts

River and coastal cruising are pretty different, and they both have advantages and disadvantages. If you can’t make your mind up, why not take a cruise on one of the world’s famous rivers and book a spectacular coastal voyage? It’s like apples and pears, distinctly different, but both are equally tasty!

When it comes to choosing a cruise in Croatia, there are a few things to consider. With its stunning coastline, mix of cultures and affordable prices, Croatia is one of the best destinations in Europe for a cruise. Here are our top tips for making the most of your cruise in this picturesque country:

1. Choose the right time of year

The weather in Croatia can be unpredictable, so it’s important to choose the right time of year for your cruise. The summer months (June-September) offer the best chance of good weather, but it can get quite hot and crowded during these months. If you’re looking for fewer crowds and milder temperatures, consider cruising in the spring (April-May) or autumn (October-November).

2. Pick the correct cruise route

There are several different cruise routes in Croatia, so it’s important to pick the one that best suits your interests. If you want to see as much of the country as possible, consider taking a coastal cruise with Zantium Travel. On the other hand, if you’re more interested in exploring the islands, then a sailing cruise might be a better option for you. Feel free to get in touch, and we will be sure to recommend the best option that suits your requirements.

3. Consider your budget

Croatia is a relatively affordable destination compared to Western Europe, but prices can vary depending on the cruise route and time of year you choose. Make sure to do your research and set a budget that works for you.

4. Book your accommodation early

If you’re planning on staying in one of the larger cities before or after your cruise, then it’s essential to book your accommodation as soon as possible. You don’t want to end up spending unnecessary time searching for somewhere to stay near the port! If you would like this aspect of your trip handled, please feel free to get in touch, and we will gladly be of assistance.

5. Pack appropriately

The weather can be unpredictable in Croatia, so it’s a good idea to pack accordingly. Bring plenty of sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat if you are cruising during the summer months. If you are visiting off-season, make sure to bring some warm clothing too!

6. Enjoy the local culture

Croatia is a culturally rich country with a mix of Mediterranean, Slavic and Austro-Hungarian influences. Be sure to take some time to explore the local culture and soak up the atmosphere in the towns and villages you visit.

7. Sample the delicious food

Croatian food is some of the best in Europe! Make sure to try some of the local specialities, such as Dalmatian ham, fish stew and blackberry brandy.

8. Take a swim

The Croatian coastline is beautiful, and what better way to enjoy it than by taking a swim? There are plenty of secluded coves and where you can take a dip, so make sure to pack your swimsuit!

9. Explore the islands

The Croatian islands are a must-see for anyone cruising in the country. With their stunning beaches, charming villages and crystal clear waters, they are a paradise for tourists.

10. Have fun!

Croatia is a beautiful and affordable destination, perfect for a relaxing summer cruise. Make sure to enjoy yourself and take advantage of all that this wonderful country has to offer!

Thinking about cruising the Adriatic but wondering if the Adriatic Sea is warm? How's the weather like there? Will there be big waves that swing the boat like a cradle?

Good food, beaches, the sea, and radiantly beautiful weather – a typical holiday on the Adriatic Sea! Indeed, the climate of the Adriatic feels quite Mediterranean: mild winters and warm dry summers guarantee a perfect beach holiday. The average summer temperatures range from 26 to 30 degrees and water temperatures are almost 26 degrees, which is equal to the conditions in a bathtub. However, the swimming season lasts only from mid or late May to mid/late September and is therefore relatively short.

In Croatia, the most common winds are bura (the bora) and sirocco. Bura is a cold, strong wind that blows throughout the year. It is more frequent and stronger in the winter, but it can happen in summer as well, and sailors should always head to warnings of upcoming bura. It starts at the feet of high mountain ranges near the sea, which send it swooping down to the sea. The strong air passes through cuttings and funnels and hits the ground or the surface of the sea, creating waves.
The other main wind is called Sirocco, or Jugo. It brings humid and warm air, often carrying sand from Sahara. As the warm air passes through the Mediterranean it collects moisture. When the air is forced upwards over the island hills and coastal mountains, it brings rain or rain dust. This wind may create challenging sailing conditions. It is more frequent and stronger in the winter.

Because of the air and water temperatures, the summer months from June to early September are ideal for a beach holiday at the Adriatic, so join us on a journey that will linger in your memory like a gentle Adriatic breeze.

Did you know that, with 2,760 hours of sunshine per year, Hvar boasts some of the sunniest weather in Europe? So, if you are a fan of vitamin D (as you should be), you should visit this Dalmatian gemstone. Hvar is one of the most stunning islands in Croatia; picturesque towns and villages, hillsides covered in lavender fields, pine forests, vineyards and olive groves – the scenery alone is reason enough to put Hvar on your bucket list.

If you’re dreaming of a magical place to swim and snorkel, Hvar has pristine beaches and translucent Mediterranean waters so clear that you can see right to the bottom.

Hvar is an island of wine, whose winemakers are producing some outstanding wines which can be tasted very diverse; in a Romanesque cellar in Jelsa, an underwater tasting in Sveta Nedjelja or the only cave winery accessible only by speedboat.

Hvar also has a rich historical heritage as an important trading hub for centuries due to its strategic location at the center of the Adriatic sailing routes. The Greeks, the Romans, the Venetians all left their mark on the island. Stari Grad, the oldest town in Croatia, when Hvar Island was colonized by the Greeks in 384 BC, was once called Pharos.

These are just a few crumbs about Hvar, and to find out more join us on a journey that will linger in your memory like a gentle Adriatic breeze.

 

Brac, Dalmatian island of silence, olive, stone, and wines is definitely worth visiting while your stay in Croatia. Their steep, sun-soaked slopes have the perfect conditions to produce some very interesting and high-quality sorts of grapes that make fantastic wines. The most common grape varieties planted on the island are Posip (white wine), and Plavac Mali (red wine). The island's wineries are located in spectacular locations, offering you quality wine and a very scenic excursion.

 

Brac also has the highest (2340 ft), and one of the best, viewpoints in all of the Croatian islands – Vidova Gora, where on a clear day, you can see Zlatni Rat, Bol, Hvar island, and the Croatian mainland.

 

The oldest settlement on the island, Skrip is simply a must-visit place. It's located inland, not far from Supetar. Skrip is rich in history and a great alternative to a hustle and bustle of coastline towns. Housed in a 16th century Radojkovic Tower, the Museum of Brac reveals the island's history, and you should also visit the Museum of Olive Oil dating back from 1864.

 

The white marble from Brac is world-renowned, and the only Stonemasonry School in Croatia can be found in Pucisca. The oldest quarry on the island – Rasohe is located in the vicinity of Skrip, and it dates back from Roman times. At the entrance of a quarry, carved in a cliff, is an ancient relief of Hercules, most likely dating back to the third century.

 

And while you are here, don’t miss your chance to sunbathe on one of most top beaches in all of Europe – Bol, famous for its Zlatni rat beach, a 1 km long beach, and swim in the crystalline turquoise sea. And if you're feeling adventurous you could try windsurfing and kiteboarding because Bol, due to a preferable west wind called Maestral with constant speeds of 15 to 25 knots, has perfect weather conditions for surf sports.

 

These are just a few crumbs about Brac, and to find out more join us on a journey that will linger in your memory like a gentle Adriatic breeze.

Lying in the heart of the Dalmatian coast, the city of Split is one of the Adriatic Sea’s destinations that have enchanted travelers for more than a millennium. Here you can walk in an emperor’s footsteps while discovering Roman Emperor Diocletian’s summer palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, visit the St Duje, a 4th-century cathedral featuring an Imperial Roman mausoleum and bell tower but also the intriguingly rich Jewish heritage that lies concealed within the palace walls of the city center – in the narrow alleys you will find one of Europe’s oldest synagogues.

Immerse yourself in the ancient atmosphere of the old town center, home to fashionable boutiques, galleries, and cafés or wander the city’s spectacular waterfront and shade yourself under the palm trees and enjoy a glass of wine and delicious local cuisine like black cuttlefish risotto, a traditional Croatian dish that’s made with cuttlefish ink.

Split is home to sandy and pebbly beaches, and during your stay, make sure you visit Bacvice, the most popular beach which takes about a 20-minute walk from Split Kastelet. If you don’t feel like swimming, Bacvice has beachfront bars too where you can sit and relax in a shade.

Aboard our privately owned, 50-passenger small ship luxury designed and constructed for a small group of travelers you will not only discover the Dalmatian Coast’s iconic city of Split but also travel off the beaten path to smaller ports, like Stari Grad, Bol, and Vis.

So, join us on a journey that will linger in your memory like a gentle Adriatic breeze.

We have always prioritized your safety, and now even more as a proud partner of the Safe stay program, a national designation of security protocols in tourism and hospitality awarded by the Croatian Ministry of Tourism and Sport. That means that we have taken the extra mile to keep you and your loved ones safe while onboard with us.
We have rigorous health and safety protocols that keep our guests and crew safe and healthy:

• Guest experiencing symptoms such as fever (<37.5 C / 99.5 F), cough, shortness of breath, chills, muscle/body aches, headache, sore throat, and loss of taste/smell within 14 days of embarkation will be denied boarding
• Elevated Cleanliness and Sanitation with hospital-grade disinfectants and hand sanitizers throughout the ship
• Wearing protective masks in all common areas of a ship and maintaining a minimum distance of 1.5 m between persons
• The use of a jacuzzi or hot tub is limited to a maximum of two people at a time (if they are a couple or family members)
• We’re working with local destinations so that the enhanced health and safety measures onboard are maintained ashore
• Enhanced medical services: to allow a safe return home to our guests in compliance with national regulations Zantium Travel has organized the possibility for its guests to purchase and perform CLINITEST® Rapid COVID-19 Antigen Self-Test

We continue to work with the Croatian Institute of Public Health to keep the above requirements up to date and to give you information and confidence to book your next cruise.

”Can you please tell me a little more about this main deck cabin?”

”Why does a main deck cabin cost more?”

”Do you suggest booking a main deck or a lower deck cabin?”

”Balcony deck? What do you mean?”

"Hello and welcome to I am going to explain the difference in cabin types onboard our cruisers."

MAIN DECK AND LOWER DECK CABINS

One of the most frequent questions I have come across is the question about the differences in cabin types and their price. As one can tell, all of the ships are very similar in size and in shape, therefor this can be applied to most of our soon-to-be passengers.
Let's talk about the ”levels” (decks) of the ship – there are four decks located on every ship starting from the lower deck, moving up to the main deck, further is the upper deck and lastly the sun deck.

Every vessel will have a number of cabins located in the lower deck – these cabins are completley the same as any other cabin onboard in size and shape, storage etc. The only difference is the location of the cabin and the fact that the lower deck cabins do not have windows but portholes which can not be opened. Usually, there are much cooler and quieter in comparison to other cabins onboard. The downside to a cabin in the lower deck is the accessibility – there will always be a staircase leading to the lower deck and in that note, cabins in the main deck are reccomended for anyone with walking difficulties.

The rest of the cabins onboard are located usually on the main deck. The main deck is the entry level of the ship, a deck also known as ”the ground floor”. Not every ship has cabins located in the main deck. The reason for this is either the location of the restaurant or any other ”public” area onboard that could take up that much space. If you come across a ship with cabins on the main deck, have in mind that these are normal, reasonably sized cabins with a window instead of a porthole and they offer a view. All of the cabins on the main deck are located in side corridors which means that sometimes a little bit of noise is expected due to other people passing by or any outside noise.

BALCONY DECK

Newer ships will often provide cabins in the upper deck, also know as the balcony deck. These are located one level above the main deck and one level below the sundeck. Each cabin located in this area has a private balcony. The cabins are again the same in size and in shape, but also provide a balcony. This means that people can open the doors and let fresh air in, but are harder to cool completley because of the sunlight and high temperatures during summer. One downside to having a balcony cabin actually depends on the way ships are moored in ports. But we will talk about mooring next time.

For the purpose of illustrating these different types of cabins I had to emphasize the differences and simillarities. I was very honest about the downsides, but only because those are inveitable – I hope all of you, our future guests, are aware of different types of situations that are likely to happen on bord. Have in mind that as much as we are a floating, travelling hotel, we are not at all a floating, travelling hotel. And that is why we are unique.

Anyhow, I hope I have made things a little bit more clear now.

Write to you soon,

N.