Our extravagant escapade through Croatia commenced with two splendid days in the dazzling city of Dubrovnik, where we delved into the enchanting old town and admired the breathtaking ambiance. We embarked on a private yacht charter aboard the MS Symphony that whisked us away for a glorious seven days, exploring the shimmering islands nestled between Dubrovnik and Split. From a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of Vis to an exhilarating bike ride to an olive oil tasting in Brac, each day was filled with unforgettable experiences mixed with moments of luxurious relaxation aboard the ship. We ended our sailing journey in the stunning city of Split where we experienced a soul-stirring hike up Apparition Hill in Medugorje, followed by a culinary delight—a cliffside four-course food and wine pairing in Trogir. We were captivated by the cascading waterfalls of Krka National Park and left spellbound by the charm of Mostar.
The experience was only made better by the incredible conversations, laughter, and memories made with our incredible Southern Suitcases travel group. We asked some of them to share more about their experience, so here is what they had to say!
The entire trip was filled with so many special VIP experiences! What is one you enjoyed most?
Justin- Oh gosh! We had tons of little surprises and enriching experiences. The choices are endless, but I’d have to say our first night in Dubrovnik with our exclusive cocktail party to kick off an incredible trip simply took my breath away- the drinks, the views, the laughter, the live music - it was simply spectacular!
Julie - The wine tasting experience was awesome and the view was breathtaking.
What did you think of the yachting experience through the Adriatic? What did you love about the ship itself?
Justin- I loved the wide variety of lounge space, whether it be in the media room, one of the three outdoor deck spaces, or the top sun deck. You could always find a place to relax and stare off into the serene surroundings.
Tammy- I loved being on the yacht most. I loved the anchor and swim days. I also loved the yacht pulling right into port. We could walk off to enjoy the incredible sights, dinner on island, or hop back onto the yacht and enjoy time on deck with views around the marina. The ease, views, and comfort were top for me!
Richard and Laurie- The ship was lovely. I was impressed with our sleeping quarters. The mattress was wonderful and the air conditioner in our room was freezing cold. I was in heaven. I was concerned about being claustrophobic, but our room was spacious. The ship was in excellent condition. Everything was clean, staff were attentive to detail, meals were very good, and I really enjoyed the boat days!!!! The Adriatic Sea was beautiful and the ports were also gorgeous. It was like stepping back in time. The bike riding was tons of fun!!! I could have stayed on the boat longer!!!
Is there anything that surprised you about your experience in Croatia?
Justin- THE FOOD! I don't know if any of you remember but that was my one and only fear for this trip since my last culinary experiences in Croatia were not my favorite. This time however I was blown away by the food and the wine. Everything we ate was SUBLIME! AND THE WINE! It can compete with Tuscany & Australia for me - give me wine & gorgeous views and I'll ask for nothing more. Especially some of the best Reds & Roses I have ever had!
Richard and Laurie - The people in Croatia surprised me. They were warm and friendly. They seemed genuine. When the young man met us at the airport at 11pm because we missed our flight, he was smiling, helpful and so happy to see us. I was impressed. I forced him to take a tip. He did not want it. I was really wowed by this!!!!
What destination or VIP experience would you recommend as a must-do or see for any future trips to Croatia?
Justin- A must for me from now on will definitely be visiting Kaštel Sikuli for their food & wine experience anytime I am in or around Split and will be recommending it to all our clients visiting. Picture this - set on a beautiful cliffside vineyard with expansive views of the ocean, being served a delectable 4 course food & wine pairing that will surely tantalize your taste buds! Who’s with me?
Richard and Laurie- Must dos….. yacht, Game of Thrones tour, tram up the mountain, Mostar, Medjugorje, Krka park, Trogir. Kaštel Sikuli wine tasting!!! Everything was great!!!!
What did you find so special about traveling with your Southern Suitcases group?
Justin- This group in particular was one of our best! Everyone was so inviting & inclusive even not all knowing one another. They were all extremely gracious while experiencing the ebb & flow of plans for this yacht adventure. Additionally, getting to see clients/friends experience what I had been envisioning for their first time and seeing their eyes gleam with awe of discovering a new destination, there is nothing more rewarding! Also just getting that firsthand feedback at the end of each day on what excited them most is so helpful for planning future trips.
Tammy- The chemistry and fellowship of all travelers was awesome! I loved that everyone was happy to share a meal, and as they discovered similar interest, the smaller groups for dinner or excursions changed throughout trip. Sometimes some couples had dinner on their own in the island. It was ok with everyone to find their own level of participation to make the most of their trip.
Julie - I thought traveling with our travel agents definitely got us VIP treatment and they are just very fun to travel with. Our group was perfect and it didn’t matter who showed up at our table in the dining room, it was great to mingle with everyone. Very fun and easy going group.
The entire experience sounds incredible! Will you be planning another trip there in the future?
Justin - Absolutely! We are already looking at arranging this again either next summer or 2026, but thinking maybe even taking the Symphony more north to explore Istria and Zadar next time!
Tammy - I loved it so much! I’m looking at other destinations to consider which may be yacht-worthy. It’s my new favorite way of travel to get into the smaller quaint towns for a bit then sail to the next place with minimal effort.