Cruising the Adriatic with Azamara: Discover Croatia, Greece, & Montenegro

At Willamette International Travel, we believe the best travel stories come straight from the people who live them: our team, our clients, and our extended travel family.

Recently, one of our advisors set sail aboard Azamara’s Onward for a 10-night Croatia Intensive Voyage, exploring sun-drenched coastlines, medieval towns, and the irresistible rhythm of Adriatic life. It was a journey defined by timeless beauty, warm hospitality, and adventure!

Athens: A Graceful Beginning

The adventure began in Athens, where a smooth arrival at the MGALLERY Athens Capital Hotel made for an easy first night abroad. This boutique property, tucked in an elegant neighborhood with a rooftop bar overlooking the Acropolis, was the perfect pre-cruise retreat. After a short 30-minute transfer to the port, boarding the Onward felt seamless; a sign of good things to come.

Croatia — *Inside the stateroom* *on the Azamara Onward*

*Inside the stateroom* *on the Azamara Onward*

Azamara’s boutique size ensures a more personal experience, and Onward embodied that beautifully: refined, welcoming, and brimming with character. Recently refurbished, she offered an inviting mix of cozy elegance and ocean-view serenity. With cappuccinos on the veranda each morning, enjoying a glass of wine under the moonlight, and a crew that quickly felt like family, life onboard moved to a gentle, joyful rhythm. Daily trivia, poolside cocktails, and lively conversation filled the in-between moments beautifully.

Tracing the Adriatic Coast

The ship’s itinerary was a dream for history lovers and coastal wanderers alike:
Athens – Kotor – Dubrovnik – Korcula – Split – Sibenik – Zadar – Pula – Venice

Montenegro was a delightful surprise. Docked in Kotor, our advisor hopped on a local “hop-on-hop-off” bus to Perast, a small seaside town that looked like it belonged on a painter’s canvas; stone houses, church steeples, and tranquil waters that reflected the mountains perfectly.

Next came Dubrovnik, where mornings were made for walking the walled city and afternoons for exploring by tuk-tuk. The tour’s panoramic views of terracotta rooftops and shimmering sea were unforgettable, as was the warmth of the local guide who made history come alive with humor and passion.

Then came Korcula, the cruise favorite. Known as “Little Dubrovnik,” the medieval island town was as charming as they come with narrow marble streets, tiny wine bars, and sea views at every turn. Allegedly the birthplace of Marco Polo, Korcula’s magic lies in its intimacy and quiet beauty.

Split, meanwhile, pulsed with a more urban energy. The monumental Diocletian’s Palace stood at its heart, surrounded by cafés and promenades along the harbor. Another tuk-tuk ride offered a peek into the hills, followed by an easy stroll and a well-deserved cool drink by the water. That night, the Onward’s guests were invited to the Croatian National Theater for an AzAmazing Event, Azamara’s hallmark cultural experience that opens a genuine window into local life. Complimentary for every cruiser, the evening celebrated Croatian music, dance, and storytelling in a way that made guests feel part of the destination, not just visitors passing through.

A pause in Sibenik provided the perfect excuse for a pool day, while Zadar offered one of the trip’s most unique attractions: the Sea Organ, an architectural wonder that turns the rhythm of the waves into music through underwater pipes. As the water grew rougher, the melody swelled, an unexpected symphony of nature and art.

After a full day adventuring around Zadar, the evening brought one of Azamara’s most anticipated traditions: White Night. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the ship transformed into a sea of white, cocktails in hand, music drifting across the deck, and tables laden with incredible food. It was a night of celebration, laughter, and unforgettable entertainment beneath the Adriatic sky.

The journey’s final Croatian port, Pula, charmed with its impressive Roman ruins, including the remarkably preserved Pula Arena. Street musicians filled the forum square with traditional Croatian tunes, adding the perfect soundtrack to an afternoon of exploring and café hopping.

A Venetian Farewell

The voyage ended on a high note in Venice, where a private water taxi whisked our travelers to Pensione Academia, a serene garden oasis tucked away from the city’s crowds. The spacious garden room, with its own fountain and sitting area, was a luxurious, peaceful finale before an early morning departure.

Even the pre-dawn water taxi ride back to the airport carried a certain romance of Venice shimmering under the first light of day.

Reflections on the Journey

From start to finish, this voyage embodied everything Azamara is known for immersive destinations, smaller ports that larger ships can’t reach, genuine connection, and a level of service that feels both gracious and personal. And while the summer heat made an impression of its own, the memories that linger are of golden sunsets at sea, laughter shared over trivia, and the haunting music of the Adriatic.

It’s no wonder Azamara remains one of our favorite ways to explore this part of the world. In fact, we currently have a group of Willamette International Travel clients sailing through the Adriatic with Azamara right now—discovering the same intimate charm and coastal beauty we love so much.

If this journey calls to you, our team would be delighted to help you plan your own Adriatic adventure aboard Azamara!