Take a Cruise in the Adriatic

Known for its clear, vibrantly blue-green waters and varied and historic ports of call, the Adriatic is the new Mediterranean for cruise enthusiasts and family travelers. An Adriatic cruise is especially suited to multigen family trips, since it appeals to all ages with its beautiful beaches, water sports, rich marine life, historic cities, ancient archaeological sites, colorful cultures and varied cuisines. There is truly something for every traveler.

The most-visited ports of call are on the eastern shore of the Adriatic, bound by the countries of Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania and Greece to the east, along with Island of Corfu. Italy forms the entire western shore.

Depending on the time of year (remember it is hot mid-summer), you can find week- or 10-day-long cruises from around $1,000 per person, with ship styles for every taste. Many longer cruises pair the Adriatic with ports on the Mediterranean.

A 10-night Adriatic & Mediterranean Gateways voyage on Azamara Onward in May begins in Barcelona, stopping in Monte Carlo, Rome and Sorrento before calling at Kotor (Montenegro), Dubrovnik and Zadar (Croatia), Koper (Slovenia), and ending in Venice. Among the shore excursion highlights are the idyllic Lake Bled with a boat trip to its island, the Postojna Caves, and a combination walking tour and river cruise showcasing medieval Ljubljana. The itinerary is priced from about $2,400 per person.

Options especially appealing to beach lovers are the budget-friendly Sail Croatia itineraries with daily beach stops. Breakfast and lunch buffets are served aboard the ship, which pulls into port each night, allowing guests to dine ashore on their own. Week-long cruises depart from Split or Dubrovnik and include stops at UNESCO-listed cities and the islands of Vis and Hvar. There are no shore excursions, and rates range from $1,600 to $2,500.

Cruisers who prefer larger ships can visit the Adriatic with Celebrity Cruises, choosing from seven- to 13-night itineraries departing from Barcelona, Rome and Ravenna (Venice), calling at ports like Dubrovnik, Split, Trieste, Kotor and Koper, depending on the itinerary. Cruises on sale right now begin at less than $1,000 per person, a 50 percent savings from the original rate.