Frequently asked questions

Katarina Line boasts the largest and most diverse fleet of small cruise ships in Croatia, ranging from elegant boutique-style vessels to charming traditional cruisers. Our modern steel-hull ships are newly built or recently refurbished to meet the highest safety and comfort standards. At the same time, our classic wooden vessels have been carefully maintained and upgraded for a cosy and authentic sailing experience. All vessels are registered and certified by the Croatian Ship Registry.

Vessel Categories:

DELUXE SUPERIOR
The newest class, 47m+, is designed as a floating boutique hotel with glass, marble, and stainless steel materials. Includes hot tubs, sun decks, and spacious en-suite cabins (15-20m²) with premium amenities such as LCD TVs, bathrobes, and toiletries.
Included Services: Airport transfers, buffet breakfasts, three-course lunches, Captain’s dinner, guided sightseeing, tour manager, tastings, daily cabin service, complimentary Wi-Fi, and more.

DELUXE

Modern vessels (42-47m) with sun decks, hot tubs, and en-suite cabins (12-17m²). Designed for comfort with amenities like LCD TVs, safety boxes, and air-conditioning.
Included Services: Similar to Deluxe Superior, with slight variations.

PREMIUM SUPERIOR

Mini deluxe vessels (35-41m) with air-conditioned salons, sun decks, and cabins (8-14m²).
Included Services: Buffet breakfasts, lunches, Captain’s dinner, guided tours, daily cabin service, and Wi-Fi.

PREMIUM
Traditional yet modern steel vessels (29-35m) with air-conditioned cabins (8-14m²).
Included Services: Buffet breakfasts, lunches, Captain’s dinner, one guided tour, daily cabin service, and Wi-Fi.

TRADITIONAL ENSUITE
Wooden vessels with air-conditioned cabins and private bathrooms, mostly bunk beds.
Included Services: Continental breakfasts, lunches, and Wi-Fi.

TRADITIONAL
Charming wooden vessels with bunk-bed cabins, shared bathrooms, and no cabin air-conditioning.
Included Services: Continental breakfasts, lunches, and Wi-Fi.

Depending on its size and category. Traditional and Traditional Ensuite vessels have 4 - 5 crew members: captain, chef, waiter and 2 sailors. The larger vessels and higher categories have 7 - 12 crew members.

At least one crew member speaks English. During the welcome speech upon arrival, all crew members will be introduced. Most Katarina Line guaranteed departures also feature a tour manager onboard for additional assistance.

Requests for specific vessels can be made during reservation. While efforts are made to accommodate preferences, specific vessel assignments cannot always be guaranteed.

Deluxe Superior and Deluxe categories.

For privacy, luxury, and comfort, choose Deluxe Superior, Deluxe, Premium Superior, or Premium categories. 

Traditional and Traditional Ensuite vessels are ideal for young or adventurous travelers, groups of friends, or interest groups like bikers or alpinists, who are comfortable sharing smaller spaces. Note: Traditional vessels lack air-conditioned cabins and feature mostly bunk beds.

The number of persons on a vessel varies from 20 to 36, depending on the size of the vessel.

Passengers vary in age and nationality, with English-speaking guests being the majority. Traditional and Traditional Ensuite vessels typically attract younger travellers, such as backpackers, while other categories feature a mix of age groups, couples, and friends. Preferences for specific demographics can be shared during reservation, though grouping passengers by age or nationality cannot always be guaranteed.

A mix of ages and nationalities is typical. Deluxe Superior and Deluxe cruises generally attract passengers aged 40+, while the Young & Fun cruise is tailored for ages 18-35.

No, only the Young & Fun cruise operates as a party vessel, designed for young travellers seeking a lively atmosphere. Regular departures cater to a mix of ages and nationalities and do not follow a party itinerary. However, parties may occur in ports, and some noise from other vessels is possible.

Standard European sockets (Type F) are used in Croatia—2 pins, grounded, 16 A, 220 V, compatible with plug types C, E, and F. Some newer vessels also feature USB sockets.

Fishing equipment is not provided onboard, but passengers may bring their own. Please note that special fishing permits must be obtained through specialized agencies at harbours.

Snorkelling equipment is not provided as a rule, though it may be available on some vessels. It’s recommended to bring your own if you plan to snorkel.

All vessels are equipped with life-saving boats and life jackets, located under cabin beds or in marked wardrobes on the deck or salon. Non-swimmers should inform the crew and captain. Passengers are advised to be cautious of the following:

• Steps may be tight and steep; use caution when ascending or descending.
• The deck can be slippery due to rain or morning humidity; hold the railing while walking.
• Climbing the foremast, jumping off the deck, or swimming too far from the vessel is strictly prohibited.
• In high season, harbours may be crowded, and vessels are often docked side by side. Extra care is required when moving between vessels; crew assistance is available upon request.

The cruise is not recommended for passengers in wheelchairs or with limited mobility.

While the tap water on board is of good quality, it is not recommended for drinking. A water dispenser with reusable glasses is available. Guests are encouraged to bring their own refillable bottles. Please use water onboard responsibly.

The main currency accepted is the Euro. For better exchange rates, it is recommended to exchange money at a bank or withdraw from an ATM. Onboard drinks and extra services (transfers, excursions, accommodation) must be paid in local currency. Premium, Premium Superior, Deluxe, and Deluxe Superior vessels offer credit card payment options.

ATMs linked to international networks are available in major towns and islands like Opatija, Dubrovnik, and Split, but may not be found in smaller towns. Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted in tourist areas, though it's advisable to carry some cash when travelling off the beaten path.

Tipping reflects your satisfaction with the service provided by the guide/cruise manager, crew, and the overall tour experience. Crew gratuities are shared equally among all crew members. Tipping is voluntary and at the discretion of each participant. Both your local currency and the Euro are accepted.

TIPPING SUGGESTIONS PER PERSON

• Cruise Manager: 35 - 50 EUR per person per week
• Crew (vessel services and luggage assistance): 70 - 100 EUR per guest per week
• Local Guide (for in-depth information at specific locations): 1-2 EUR per half day of sightseeing
• Restaurants & Cafes: If not included, tip 10%-15% of the bill, depending on service quality
• Taxis: Tip up to 10% of the fare. For better rates, book taxis through your tour/cruise manager and negotiate fares in advance.

The average sea temperature in July and August is 24.5°C, while the air temperature averages 28°C during these months. For spring and autumn departures, we recommend bringing warmer clothing, such as a windbreaker or sportswear, as evenings can be cooler

Cabins vary in size depending on the vessel category. Deluxe Superior cabins are 15-20 m² and feature wardrobes, a safe, hairdryer, toiletries, bathrobe, and slippers. Deluxe cabins are 12-17 m². Premium Superior and Premium cabins range from 8-14 m². Traditional Ensuite cabins are approximately 5-8 m², while Traditional cabins are 3.5-4 m². All cabins are functional, typically with two beds and basic storage such as a small wardrobe or shelf.

Premium Superior and Premium vessels offer either twin or double beds. Some cabins can accommodate three people, with a double bed and an additional bed above or beside it. Due to the limited number of bed types, we cannot guarantee a specific bed arrangement but will do our best to accommodate your preferences. If you have a specific bed type request, please mention it when making your reservation, and we will try to fulfil it.

On Deluxe and Premium vessels, cabins are equipped with either twin or double beds. The typical size for twin beds is 90/100 cm x 190/200 cm, while double beds measure around 150/160 cm x 190/200 cm. On Traditional Ensuite vessels, most cabins have bunk beds, although some may feature twin or double beds. A double bed on Traditional Ensuite vessels typically measures 130/140 cm x 190/200 cm, while bunk beds are 80/90 cm x 190/200 cm. Traditional category vessels exclusively have bunk beds, sized 80 cm x 190/200 cm.

Cabins on the vessel can be located either on the deck or below the deck. On-deck cabins are found on the main deck (the deck where you embark) or the upper deck (above the main deck). These cabins offer direct access to the sea and more fresh air. Lower deck cabins are located in the hull of the vessel and are typically quieter, as they are less likely to have passengers walking by. These cabins are also naturally cooler due to their proximity to sea level, and the hallways below deck are often air-conditioned, which helps regulate the temperature. Most lower deck cabins have small portholes.

Lower deck cabins are located in the hull of the vessel and typically have a small porthole. According to Croatian law and vessel regulations, these portholes must be kept closed during navigation to prevent water from entering the cabin. When the vessel is docked in port, the portholes can be opened. On newer Premium Superior / Premium, Deluxe and Deluxe Superior category vessels with steel hulls and air-conditioned cabins, the portholes cannot be opened.

A guest shared their experience with a lower deck cabin, which highlights the comfort and charm of this type of cabin:
"We ended up below deck and I loved it!! The portholes were super cool and I preferred our cabin with the feel of being on a boat when not on deck. I got some arty pics from the portholes, and closing them at night was very satisfying (SO much better than curtains). When open, the light from the water reflection on the roof of our cabin was super soothing, and the air conditioning was a fabulous retreat from the heat."

The guest also appreciated the cabin's amenities, such as the safe, comfortable beds, spacious bathroom, and quality shower.

The frequency of cabin cleaning depends on the vessel category:

• Deluxe Superior, Deluxe, Premium Superior, and Premium vessels offer daily cabin service.
• On Traditional Ensuite and Traditional category vessels, the crew does not enter your cabin during the cruise, so passengers are responsible for keeping their cabins clean. However, two towels per person are provided, and the crew will clean the common areas. If you would like your cabin cleaned during the cruise, this can be arranged for an additional fee upon request.

In all categories, cabins are cleaned and fresh bed linens are provided before your arrival.

• Deluxe Superior, Deluxe, Premium Superior, and Premium cabins are air-conditioned. However, air conditioning may not be available at night after midnight if there is limited access to electricity.
• Traditional Ensuite cabins are also air-conditioned, but similar to the other categories, it might be limited during certain times, such as when the vessel is not connected to electricity.
• Traditional cabins do not have air conditioning, but common areas like salons and hallways on the lower deck are typically air-conditioned. The air conditioning is only functional when the vessel is powered by a generator or connected to an electrical supply in the harbor. If the vessel is docked in a smaller harbor without electrical access, the air conditioning will be turned off to avoid disturbing the peace with the generator noise.

No, it is not possible to book different cabin categories on the same vessel. Each vessel is categorized by specific cabin types, such as Deluxe Superior vessels having only Deluxe Superior cabins, Premium Superior or Premium vessels offering Premium Superior or Premium cabins, and so on. You will need to book cabins from the same category if travelling together on the same vessel. 

If you plan to sleep on deck under the stars, it is recommended to bring a sleeping bag. Mattresses, pillows, and sheets cannot be taken out of the cabins, so you'll need your own sleeping gear for this purpose.

Yes, there is warm water available on the vessels. The vessels are equipped with a central heater to ensure a steady supply of warm water. However, electricity and water are available in limited capacity, and the generator that provides power may not be used during the night or when the vessel is docked in quiet areas. The water tanks are sized to match the number of cabins and beds, so there is generally enough water, provided it is used rationally.

It depends on the vessel category. On Deluxe Superior vessels, you can use beach towels for free throughout the week. On Deluxe vessels, one beach towel is provided free of charge. For other vessel categories, beach towels are available for rental for 6 EUR per week per towel. Additionally, you can purchase a Katarina Line beach towel for 12 EUR.

• Dubrovnik port: The only luggage storage available is the Katarina Line operational storage (Obala Stjepana Radića 37).
• Split port: Luggage storage is available throughout the harbour
• Opatija port: Please ask the Katarina Line representative for additional information about luggage storage possibilities.

We suggest bringing light clothes such as shorts, T-shirts, bathing suits, sandals, and similar items. It's also a good idea to pack a few long-sleeve shirts, long pants, or a wind jacket for cooler weather and breezy nights. Don't forget essentials like a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a beach towel, and additional personal towels if you're travelling on Traditional Ensuite or Traditional vessels. If you forget anything, you can usually buy summer clothes and equipment in most of the harbours.

There is no limit to the size or amount of baggage, but your luggage must fit into the cabin. If you feel that your luggage is oversized, please contact Katarina Line by email at cruises@katarina-line.hr for a solution.

Vessels are docked in the Opatija harbour, Gruž harbour in Dubrovnik, and the ferry harbour in Split. In Split, vessels are typically located on the side of the harbour opposite the main bus station and further toward the city center, near the train station, Port Authority building, and the main promenade. The specific dock number is not provided, as vessels are assigned differently each Saturday based on the Port Authority's directions. However, Katarina Line representatives, wearing white and turquoise shirts, will be in the harbour with guest lists, vessel names, and cabin numbers to assist you with embarkation.

OPATIJA

Opatija mapa luka

DUBROVNIK

Dubrovnik mapa Gruz

SPLIT 

Split mapa luka

We can assist with parking arrangements:

• Opatija: The parking lot near small town Ika in the Opatija district.
• Split: We recommend the parking lot at the Radisson Hotel
• Dubrovnik: a parking lot within the harbour.

 Please note that Katarina Line is not responsible for any vehicle damage, and parking is available for personal vehicles only.

Please inform us of your car arrival at the time of booking.

The food on the vessels reflects traditional Croatian cuisine.

• Deluxe Superior, Deluxe, Premium Superior, and Premium category vessels offer buffet breakfasts.
• Traditional Ensuite & Traditional category vessels provide a continental breakfast, including tea, coffee, fruit juice, bread, butter, jam, and occasionally ham and cheese. If you prefer an English breakfast, you can request it either during your booking or onboard.

For lunch, all Deluxe category vessels serve a three-course meal with a salad bar and a cheese plate. Premium & Traditional category vessels also offer a three-course lunch.

Dinner is not included as we encourage guests to explore the local restaurants for evening meals.

The Captain's Dinner is a special event held once a week, where the captain invites guests to enjoy an optional meat or fish menu. It provides a wonderful opportunity for guests and the crew to mingle and socialize.

• The Captain’s Dinner is included for all Deluxe and Premium category vessels.
• For Traditional Ensuite & Traditional category vessels, the Captain’s Dinner can be ordered during the reservation process or arranged and paid for on the spot.

The dress code for the event is Smart Casual/Elegant.

Due to the limitations of small kitchens on board, we can accommodate special dietary needs such as vegetarian meals or other specific dietary requests. To ensure we can cater to your needs, please inform us of any dietary requirements at the time of booking. Our onboard chef will do their best to accommodate your preferences.

It is not allowed to bring and consume your drinks on the vessel. However, drinks can be ordered at the vessel salon, which serves as the restaurant, living room, and bar. The bar offers a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. If you would like a specific drink not available on board, please inform the crew, and they will do their best to arrange it for you at the next port of call.

Drinks purchased from the vessel bar can be paid in EUR. Clients will receive daily reports of the drinks consumed the previous day, and payment is due at check-out. On all deluxe and premium vessel categories, payment by credit card is also available.

Vessel rules are meant to protect the passengers on board. Please read, and act accordingly and with consideration for other passengers.

If a passenger behaves in a way to cause or is likely to cause danger or distress to any third party, Katarina Line reserves the right to terminate the travel of the person(s) concerned without any refund.

 Passengers on board are obliged to abide by the ship's rules, as the captain is responsible for the safety of all passengers and the crew. 

• Passengers on board are obliged to abide by the ship's rules, as the captain is responsible for the safety of all passengers and the crew

• Passports are to be handed to the captain for registration on the first day of the cruise.

• Jumping or diving from the ship during navigation is strictly forbidden. For safety reasons climbing on the masts is also forbidden.

• During rough weather, movement should be minimized and done with care, as floors can often be wet and slippery.

• Passengers should take extra care when crossing between the ships when ships are docked alongside in port. It is advised to ask a crew member for assistance when crossing. Note that movement between the ships is the individual’s responsibility. Safety belts are placed under the seats in the dining area, under the bed in cabins, or inside the wardrobe, depending on the vessel.

• As vessels are acoustic, passengers are asked to behave accordingly. Special attention must be given to the night peace onboard, which officially starts at midnight. In National Parks night peace is required even earlier and passengers will be notified of this.

• Smoking in the restaurant area and the cabins is not allowed and when smoking on the deck in designated smoking areas, passengers must not throw cigarette butts in the sea.

• Bed linen and other items are not to be moved from the cabin.

• Only toilet paper is allowed to be thrown in the toilet.

• Passengers are not permitted to bring drinks and food to the vessel. This includes all drinks and food purchased on shore in ports of call. The only exceptions are personal care products, medicine, food products specifically for infants and food products for special diets. Typical regional products purchased during port visits will be stored onboard and returned to passengers at the end of the cruise.

• Passengers are obliged to respect mealtimes, which will be placed on the board in the dining area, as well as departure times from ports.

• To maintain a clean and comfortable environment, refrain from entering the ship while wet from the sea. This policy extends to cabin areas as well. Please ensure you are dry and in suitable clothing before accessing interior areas (no swimwear).

• Passengers are responsible for looking after their personal belongings whilst travelling. Katarina Line cannot be held responsible for any personal belongings left behind or damaged irrespective of the circumstances.

• Any damage must be compensated to the captain by the passenger. Lost cabin keys will be charged for.

• It is strictly forbidden to throw rubbish into the sea.

• Water is limited on board, therefore please be very rational with it. The same applies to electricity which runs on the generator.

• Portholes in lower deck cabins during navigation must be closed to avoid cabins getting wet by the seawater entering the cabin through the porthole.

• Hot Tub to be used according to the written instructions onboard.

• Jumping from the sun deck is strictly forbidden.

• The captain and the crew will be available for any questions or queries and will do their best to make your stay onboard a most pleasurable one. If the captain and his crew are not providing satisfactory service, please contact the Katarina Line office for further help, as we aim to make you satisfied during your stay on board.

• Service charge is not included in the price therefore please tip at your discretion.

BIKE CRUISE:

• Participants in biking or hiking activities are responsible for their own safety and must follow the instructions and decisions of the guide at all times.

• The guide reserves the right to adjust the itinerary based on weather conditions and the group's abilities.

• Guests are responsible for the rented bike and equipment and must return them in the same condition as received.

• In the event of damage, the customer will be liable for the cost of repairs as per the Katarina Line price list, which is available upon request from the guide.

• Katarina Line is not responsible for any damage to personal bikes or those rented from other suppliers.

• Katarina Line recommends two guides for groups of more than 25 participants per departure. In such cases, one double cabin onboard should be reserved for the additional bike guide.

Bon voyage!

Katarina Line Team!

+385 (0)51 603 400

Tips and gratuities are not included in the tour rate. If you are satisfied with the service provided, you are welcome to tip the staff at your discretion. 

The passport requirements depend on the specific land tour:

• CROATIAN RHAPSODY
  This tour takes place entirely in Croatia. You will need your passport to enter Croatia, either at the airport passport control or when crossing into Croatia from another country. During the tour, you will not need to present your passport except when checking into hotels.

• LAKES AND MEDITERRANEAN HARMONY
  This tour covers multiple European Union countries (Italy, Slovenia, Austria, and Croatia) within the Schengen area. While border controls are rare, temporary checks might occur, so it’s essential to keep your passport easily accessible on border crossing days. You will also need your passport when checking into hotels.

• FROM THE DANUBE TO THE ADRIATIC COAST
  This tour involves travel to Serbia. Some citizens may require a visa—please check the requirements here. Be prepared for potentially longer wait times at border crossings. The itinerary may be adjusted based on conditions beyond our control.

For any additional questions or assistance with specific documentation requirements, feel free to contact us.

Tipping is optional and voluntary. For 8-night land tours, we recommend the following tips:

Driver: €30–€40 per person
Tour guide: €40–€50 per person

The price is per person per week in double/twin cabins (DBL/TWN) and is stated in EUR.

• Deluxe Cruises: Tourist tax and port fees are included in the price.
• Classic Cruises: Tourist tax and port fees are an obligatory supplement of €60 per person per week, payable on the spot.

Yes, a 50% surcharge applies to single-use cabins based on the twin-share price.  

Yes, a 5% discount applies when booking two consecutive weeks

Yes, adults on the third bed in a triple cabin receive a 30% discount (limited availability).  

Yes, children under 10 years old receive a discount when sharing a double-use cabin:

• Deluxe Cruises: 30% discount.
• Classic Cruises: 50% discount

The full amount must be paid at the time of booking.  

• From confirmation until 30 days before departure: Cancellation fee of €300 per person for Deluxe Cruises / €250 per person for Classic Cruises  
• 29 - 22 days before departure: Cancellation fee + 25% of the total amount 
• 21 - 15 days before departure: Cancellation fee + 50% of the  total amount 
• 14 - 0 days before departure: 100% cancellation fee (no refund)  

Yes, changes are possible:  
- Name change fee: €20 per person  
- Date change fee: €20 per person (valid only if made at least 30 days before departure; otherwise, standard cancellation conditions apply).  
- Name and date changes cannot be combined for the same reservation. 

Due to the reconstruction of Split Harbour, all Saturday departures for Deluxe cruises from Split will now embark at Marina Baotić. Marina Baotić is located in Seget Donji, approximately 8 kilometers from Split city center. Detailed directions and transportation options will be provided upon booking confirmation.

Yes! Katarina Line will arrange a shuttle transfer from Split city center/airport on Day 1 to get you to Marina Baotić comfortably.

Instead of a guided tour of Split, you will enjoy a guided walking tour of Trogir, as per the itinerary, followed by a welcome reception on board.

Disembarkation for affected itineraries will also be at Marina Baotić in Trogir. A shuttle transfer to Split city center/airport will be provided at a set time.

No worries — if you are arriving later or not from the airport, you can book a transfer with us or arrange your way to the Marina Baotić. Please,let us know in advance.

For guests with early airport departures or special arrangements (e.g., day tours), individual transfers can be arranged in advance. Please notify us ahead of time.

Yes, if you are landing later in the day, transfers from Split Airport to Marina Baotić are still included — check your Cruise Info Letter for full details.

Yes — a group transfer from Marina Baotić to Split will be arranged after disembarkation.

The Katarina Line team will be ready to welcome you from 9:00 AM at Marina Baotić. Cabin check-in starts at 14:00, but you can leave your luggage onboard earlier.

Katarina Line’s team understand the changes may affect your original plans, and we truly appreciate your flexibility. However, this situation is considered force majeure (an event beyond anyone’s control), so standard cancellation and change policies apply.

It is also important to note that any alternative cruise you switch to could be subject to the same last-minute port adjustments, depending on how the port reconstruction progresses. We’ll always do our best to keep you informed and ensure a smooth experience, no matter the starting/ending point.

The optional guided walking tour in Split, offered on Dalmatian Paradise and One Way Wonders cruises ending in Marina Baotić on disembarkation day is complimentary.

The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours.

Yes, the luggage storage facility at the port is at the guests' expense.

It is possible, but it must be arranged and paid for on the spot.

The optional Split tour on day 7 is available on the following programs with Saturday departure, ending in Trogir:

• Dalmatian Paradise (Trogir - Trogir)

• One Way Wonders (Dubrovnik - Trogir)

   

All versions visit the same beautiful destinations — the only difference is the order of visits. This helps avoid crowds and ensures the best experience with local partners. The exact version is confirmed at the time of booking.