Venice Simplon-Orient-Express & Star Clippers Adriatic and Balkan – 12 days

Experience the Grand Age of Sail and the Golden Age of Rail on this 12-day combination “Rail & Sail” holiday, in partnership with Star Clippers. This itinerary is unique combining two modes of travel from the past but both having the comfort and luxury expected for modern day holidaying.  Star Clippers is a journey that will provide the opportunity to meet new people, see new places and, most of all, create the holiday experience of a lifetime. Feel the wind in your hair and the salty breeze in your face as you sail aboard what feels like your own private yacht.

Follow the sea trading routes of the Romans and Venetians. Sail into the trading ports of Venice, Rovinj, Dubrovnik and Kotor. You will get to explore the architecture that these trading empires left behind including the influence of the Ottomans that still exist today in the culture and food found on these coastal waters. There is still time to visit remote sandy beaches on Croatia’s island beaches where full tourism is yet to arrive!

Itinerary

Day 1 – Venice

Fly London to Venice on an early flight and transfer to five-masted Royal Clipper – the largest full-rigged sailing ship in the world for your seven-night full-board cruise. Relax on board on the ample deck space, featuring hidden balconies, plunge pools and a visit to the crow’s next if you dare!

Day 2 – Zadar

Royal Clipper: Zadar – Explore the Roman ruins and defensive walls of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the sounds of the ocean from the Sea Organ

Day 3 – Hvar

The pretty island of Hvar, surrounded by the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic Sea.

Day 4 – Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik and surrounding area: Explore the conspicuous and miraculously restored red-roofed fortified city, enclosed by towering 10th century walls.

Day 5 – Kotor

Montenegro: Today Royal Clipper calls at another fortified Balkan location, over the border into Montenegro and the winding streets of unspoiled Kotor.

Day 6 – Vis

The beautiful island of Vis, relatively untouched by tourism, is a quaint paradise, home to some of Europe’s most beautiful beaches.

Day 7 – Rovinj

Discover the fascinating architecture of this delightful harbour town.

Day 8 to 10 –Venice

Disembark Royal Clipper and transfer to your hotel in Venice for a three-night stay in the San Marco area of the “Floating City”. We’ve included a walking tour, and you’ll also have a full day at leisure to wander the byways of this charming watery city at your own pace – perhaps take a gondola ride or sample a bellini or two!

Day 11 – Orient Express

You will be collected by Belmond representatives from your hotel and transferred to Venice train station to board the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. A blend of sumptuous cuisine, attentive service and an unrivalled atmosphere of a time gone by combine for an overnight rail experience you’ll never forget!

Day 12 – London

Today after a delicious brunch on board, you’ll transfer by luxury motorcoach to the Belmond British Pullman for afternoon tea and English fizz before arriving back into London Victoria late early evening.