Compare Croatia: Dolphins & Islands Expedition by Discover Corps vs Croatia Getaway: Amadria Park Jure Hotel by Great Value Vacations
Compare details and see what other travelers are saying.
| Trip |
5 | Excellent
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4 | Great
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| Duration | 8 days | 6 days |
| Price From | $ 3,895 | $ 1,494 |
| Price Per Day | $ 487 | $ 249 |
| Highlights |
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| Trip Style | Small group tour | Self-guided tour |
| Lodging Level | Standard | Standard |
| Physical Level |
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| Travel Themes |
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N/A |
| Countries Visited | ||
| Cities and Attractions |
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N/A |
| Flights & Transport | Ground transport included | Airfare included |
| Activities |
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| Meals Included |
7 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches and 6 Dinners |
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| Description |
While Croatia may be known for its beauty on land, the Adriatic Sea is home to a vast array of marine animals that need protecting, including sea turtles, giant devil rays, and the Adriatic dolphin. Recognizing their invaluable role in the ecosystem, researchers at The Blue World Institute of Marine Research and Conservation work to educate the public and launch conservation initiatives across Northern Croatia. Through their efforts, the Institute has led several national and international conservation projects, including declaring the first Dolphin Reserve in the Mediterranean Sea! Travelers will go behind-the-scenes and aid in these dolphin monitoring expeditions with the The Blue World Institute collecting data on environmental conditions, locations and sightings, numbers of encountered dolphins, photographs of dorsal fins for photo-ID analysis, and data about dolphin behavior. In addition to collecting this data, get a taste of life as a marine biologist and learn how to read the information you collected and why it is important for the well-being of the dolphins. Additionally, we'll learn more about other marine wildlife on the island including loggerhead turtles. Beyond your time participating in dolphin conservation on the island of Lošinj, travel to the Southern islands of Croatia by boat. Experience the breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site, Stari Grad, a three-course cooking class from a local chef as you learn to make a Croatian speciality, peka, and kayaking to the Pakleni Islands. Hike through the old stone town, marvel at the rolling green hills, and have plenty of time to take in the natural beauty that is Croatia |
Croatia is filled with magnificent scenery that is combined with an intriguing blend of Romanesque and Baroque architecture. During your time in Šibenik, take in some of these amazing views while spending time basking in your luxurious amenities at the Amadria Park Jure Hotel. Enjoy an amazing stress-relieving massage at the state-of-the-art Jure Spa or lounge by the dazzling infinity pool! Off the resort, explore the cultural and historical sites that make the city of Šibenik important. Discover the importance behind the religious landmark of St. James Cathedral or wander around the famed Dalmatian Ethno Village! Alternatively, you can go for a stroll around Šibenik's Old Town Hall or enjoy impressive views from St. John's Fortress. Make the most of your time in the picturesque country of Croatia! |
Day 1: Arrive and Enjoy Beautiful Views on the Way to Lošinj
Meals: Dinner
Touch down in the Croatian Capital Zagreb, where you’ll meet your Discover Corps guide and get to know your fellow travelers. Together, we’ll travel about five hours to the island of Lošinj, taking in gorgeous views along the way – including from the deck of a ferry. On Lošinj, unwind over a delicious welcome dinner.
Day 2: Track Dolphins with the Blue World Institute Team
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
On the morning of our first day of volunteering with the Blue World Institute, we’ll meet the expert team and learn about the fundamentals of dolphin biology and conservation. Then it’s time to head out into the Adriatic Sea on a dolphin-tracking, data-collecting boat trip. After lunch, a photo-identification workshop offers more insight into dolphin conservation.
Day 3: Expand Your Marine Conservation knowledge and Explore the Blue Cave
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Today will be split into two distinct parts. We’ll begin by hopping on a boat to explore the incredible Blue Cave. In the afternoon, return to the Blue World Institute for another interactive conservation learning session, this time focused on biodiversity and sea turtles.
Day 4: Take a Final Dolphin-Tracking Trip and Explore Veli Lošinj
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
It’s the last morning at the Blue World Institute, and you’ll spend it putting your newly gained marine biology knowledge to good use on one final dolphin-tracking trip on the water. Afterwards, you’ll have free time to explore the postcard-perfect village of Veli Lošinj and its lovely beach at your own pace.
Day 5: Marvel at the Natural Splendor of Croatia En Route to Hvar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Today will be spent passing through some of Croatia’s most striking landscapes as we make our way to the island of Hvar. Keep your camera on hand to capture the sweeping sea and land panoramas along the way as we travel by catamaran, van and boat.
Day 6: Learn to Cook the Croatian Way and Hike the Stari Grad Plains
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Wake up in the historic village of Stari Grad, our base for the next two days. After breakfast, we’ll head to the neighboring village of Vrisnik for a lesson in traditional Croatian cooking. Our optional hike back to the hotel will lead through the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Stari Grad Plains.
Day 7: Go Kayaking and Sample Local Wine
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
After breakfast, venture out on a kayaking excursion through the turquoise waters of the Pakleni Islands before the choice to either tour two local wineries, or take a free afternoon to lounge by the hotel pool or explore the village.
Day 8: Fly Home or Continue on to Mljet for the Dubrovnik Extension
Meals: Breakfast
It’s time to say farewell to those on the eight-day program. If you’re in this group, you'll return to Split International Airport for your flight home. If you’re continuing on to the Dubrovnik extension (next page), you’ll board the boat to the island of Mljet.
Day 1 Welcome to Split!
Touch town in Croatia, one of the most aesthetically pleasing countries in all of Europe! Make your way to the Amadria Park Jure Hotel and get situated in your room. Spend the rest of the evening becoming acquainted with your surroundings.
Day 2 Šibenik
For your first full day in Šibenik, go for a stroll around the city and marvel at the culture that you're surrounded by. Explore Velimira and pick up trinkets and souvenirs from the Dalmare Shopping Center!
Day 3 Šibenik
Explore the bustling Mediterranean Square today! Feel free to shop, relax within the square, or enjoy the view of the gorgeous coastline. Be sure to sample some delicious eats during your time here!
Day 4 Šibenik
Make today a wonderful beach day! Grab all of your beach necessities and make your way to the shores. Feel free to explore any one of Šibenik’s stunning beaches including White Beach or the Jadrija City Beach.
Day 5 Šibenik
Since today is your final day in Šibenik, be sure to cross all of your desired activities off of your bucket list! Visit more landmarks and sample more food and drinks before heading back to your hotel to rest up for your flight home tomorrow!
Day 6 Depart Split!
Say your final goodbyes to Šibenik! Board your transfer to the airport and head home! Until next time, Croatia.
