DESTINATIONS — CROATIA & THE BALKANS


TRIED & TESTED: Spalato


Cruising the Dalmatian coast is as relaxed and carefree as it gets – stop for an impromptu swim, sunbathe on the sundeck – yet the atmosphere on this small ship is even more chilled-out than most. With just 19 cabins, passengers get to know each other pretty quickly. That sort of atmosphere isn’t for everyone, but those who like to interact with their fellow holidaymakers will find the well-


appointed communal areas the perfect spot to chat over a glass of local vino. Spalato is an A+ vessel, the second of four levels of luxury in Katarina Line’s 45-strong fleet, behind the eight ‘deluxe’ ships but ahead of the more backpacker-oriented ‘A’ and ‘B’ categories, which suit younger travellers seeking a party-boat vibe.


The decent-sized cabins


are practical if not luxurious, with private facilities and air- conditioning. Passengers sleeping in the eight below-deck cabins need not worry, as they are surprisingly light and airy. The food served up in the dining room is typically Croatian – lots of melt-in-the-mouth gnocchi, goulash, marinated meats and feasts of seafood – but the real


star of this cruise is the gorgeous Dalmatian coast, best admired from a lounger on the ship’s elegant sundeck. Now that’s relaxed and carefree. Book it: Orbital Travel offers a seven-night Southern Explorer Cruise, starting in Split, from £915 in September. The price includes half-board accommodation on an A+ category ship, flights from London, transfers, a ‘captain’s dinner’ and a tour of Dubrovnik. orbitaltravel.co.uk


28 May 2015 — travelweekly.co.uk • 53


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