7-Night Greece and Croatia Cruise on the Brilliance of the Seas

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Hey there, fellow adventurers! If you’re dreaming of sun-soaked beaches, ancient cities, and crystal-clear waters, then let me take you on my recent 7-night cruise aboard the Brilliance of the Seas. This Greece and Croatia cruise was the perfect blend of relaxation, exploration, and culinary delights. Starting with the picturesque beauty of Santorini and continuing through the historical streets of Dubrovnik, I’m eager to share every detail of this incredible journey with you. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or planning your first trip, this guide will help you navigate your way to an unforgettable vacation.

Introduction: Greece and Croatia Cruise

A Greece and Croatia cruise is a captivating journey through history, culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. My recent 7-night voyage aboard Royal Caribbean’s Brilliance of the Seas was an unforgettable experience that seamlessly blended the best of these two stunning countries. From wandering through the iconic whitewashed buildings of Santorini to uncovering the ancient streets of Dubrovnik, this trip truly had it all. If you’re planning your own adventure, you’re in for a treat—this guide is filled with tips, recommendations, and insider knowledge that will help you craft a cruise experience just as memorable as mine. So, if you’re ready to embark on your own journey, keep reading to discover everything you need to know.

Day-by-Day Adventures: Greece and Croatia Cruise

Day 1: Departure from Venice, Italy

We set sail from the enchanting city of Venice, where our adventure began. There’s nothing quite like watching the iconic canals and historic buildings of Venice fade into the distance as the ship glides through the water. One of my favorite tips for departure day: make sure to grab a spot on the top deck early. The sail-away party is fun, but the best views are from the bow of the ship, where you can snap some incredible photos of Venice as you leave the port.

Pro tip: When you first board the ship, use the Royal Caribbean app to check for any last-minute reservations at specialty restaurants. Sometimes there are deals available on embarkation day that you won’t find later in the cruise.

Day 2: Santorini, Greece

Santorini, with its stunning cliffs and iconic blue-domed churches, was undoubtedly a highlight of the trip. As soon as we arrived, we opted for a city tour that first took us to the top of the island, where we were treated to panoramic views of the breathtaking caldera. From there, the tour continued with a visit to Oia, the famous village known for its postcard-perfect sunset views and charming, picturesque streets. In Oia, you can leisurely wander through narrow alleys lined with boutiques, art galleries, and quaint cafes, all of which offer stunning views of the sparkling Aegean Sea. Every turn on this tour was more captivating than the last, making it an unforgettable part of our journey.

For lunch, we stopped at a local taverna, where we savored moussaka, grilled lamb, and the freshest seafood. Afterward, we had some free time to explore Fira, Santorini’s capital, where you can shop for local products like olive oil, wine, and handmade jewelry.

Day 3: Mykonos, Greece

Mykonos was everything you imagine it to be—whitewashed buildings, narrow winding streets, and the crystal-clear Aegean Sea. We joined a city tour that took us through Mykonos Town, starting with the iconic windmills and moving onto Little Venice, where the colorful houses are perched right on the water’s edge. We even had some free time to shop for local crafts and relax at a seaside cafe with a frappe (a Greek iced coffee) in hand.

In the afternoon, we headed to one of Mykonos’ famous beaches. Even if you’re not on a tour, Mykonos is very walkable, and there are plenty of taxis and buses to take you to the beach or back to the port. For those looking for more adventure, consider renting a scooter or ATV to explore the island on your own.

Dining Tip: If you’re a fan of seafood, Mykonos is the place to indulge. Many of the seaside tavernas offer the freshest catch of the day, grilled to perfection.

Day 4: At Sea Day

Our day at sea was a chance to unwind and enjoy the ship’s amenities. I started my day with a relaxing breakfast at the Windjammer buffet, followed by some much-needed relaxation by the pool. One of my favorite activities on sea days is whale watching. Keep your eyes peeled—you never know what you might spot out on the open ocean.

The Brilliance of the Seas has a fantastic spa, so I booked a massage at the Vitality Spa. Pro tip: book your spa treatments early, either on embarkation day or even before your cruise. The spa fills up quickly, especially on sea days.

Entertainment Tip: Make sure to check out the evening shows in the theater. Whether it’s a musical, a comedy show, or a live band, the entertainment on Royal Caribbean ships is always top-notch. And if you’re into trivia, don’t miss the daily trivia games in the Schooner Bar—it’s a fun way to meet fellow cruisers.

Day 5: Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik, often called the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” was undoubtedly one of my favorite stops on the cruise. Our city tour started with a walk along the ancient city walls. As we strolled, we enjoyed breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea and the terracotta rooftops of the Old Town. For “Game of Thrones” fans, many of the filming locations were easily recognizable along the way, adding an extra layer of excitement.

Once inside the Old Town, we explored landmarks like the Rector’s Palace and the Sponza Palace. Each site offered its own unique slice of history. After the tour, I highly recommend taking the cable car up to Mount Srđ. The panoramic views of the city and coastline from the top are simply stunning. It’s the perfect spot for capturing photos and enjoying a peaceful moment away from the hustle and bustle of the city below.

Royal Caribbean Tip: For those looking to make the most of their day in Dubrovnik, consider booking a combination tour that includes both the city walls and a boat trip around the nearby Elaphiti Islands.

Day 6: Split, Croatia

Split is a city where ancient history blends seamlessly with modern life. Our guided city tour took us through Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site that dates back to Roman times. The palace complex is now part of the city center, with shops, cafes, and apartments integrated into the historic ruins. We also explored the stunning Cathedral of Saint Domnius and wandered through the lively Riva promenade, lined with palm trees and cafes overlooking the water.d

For those who prefer a more active day, Split offers plenty of options, from hiking up Marjan Hill to kayaking along the coast. If you’re into history, don’t miss the nearby ruins of Salona, an ancient Roman city that predated Split.

Dining Tip: After a day of exploring, head to one of the local konobas (traditional Croatian restaurants) for a taste of authentic Dalmatian cuisine. Grilled fish, octopus salad, and peka (a slow-cooked meat and vegetable dish) are must-tries.

Day 7: At Sea

Our day at sea was the perfect chance to unwind and enjoy all the Brilliance of the Seas has to offer. I began the morning with a leisurely breakfast at the Windjammer buffet. Afterward, I found a cozy spot by the pool for some sun and whale watching. Keep your eyes open—spotting marine life on sea days is common!

One of the highlights of my day was visiting the Vitality Spa for a relaxing massage. If you’re considering spa treatments, I highly recommend booking as soon as you board. Better yet, reserve your spot before the cruise begins. The spa fills up fast, especially on sea days.

In the evening, we indulged in a spectacular dinner at Wonderland, a specialty restaurant with an Alice in Wonderland theme. The whimsical decor and imaginative dishes made it a truly unforgettable dining experience. If you’re craving something unique, make sure to snag a reservation here!

Entertainment Tip: Don’t miss the nightly shows in the theater. Whether it’s a Broadway-style musical, a comedy act, or a live band, Royal Caribbean’s entertainment is top-notch. And if you’re a fan of trivia, check out the daily quizzes in the Schooner Bar—it’s a fun way to meet fellow cruisers.

Royal Caribbean Insider Tips

Use the Royal Caribbean App: The app is your best friend on board. You can check daily activities, make dining and spa reservations, and even communicate with other passengers through the chat feature.

Book Excursions Early: Popular excursions fill up fast, so don’t wait until the last minute. Booking through the Royal Caribbean app ensures you get your top choices.

Get to the Shows Early: If you want good seats for the evening shows, arrive at least 20-30 minutes early. The theater fills up quickly, especially on sea days.

Upgrade Your Dining Experience: If you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, consider purchasing a dining package that gives you access to multiple specialty restaurants at a discounted rate.

Take Advantage of the Solarium: The Solarium is an adults-only area with a pool, hot tubs, and plenty of lounge chairs. It’s a quieter spot to relax compared to the main pool area.

Secret Decks: The Brilliance of the Seas has several “secret” decks at the front and back of the ship that aren’t always crowded. They’re perfect for quiet time with a book or taking in the views.

Conclusion: Greece and Croatia Cruise

A Greece and Croatia cruise on the Brilliance of the Seas offers the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, lounging by the pool, or indulging in world-class dining, there’s something for everyone on this incredible journey. As you soak in the beauty of the Mediterranean, I hope these tips and insights help you feel even more prepared for your own unforgettable experience.

So, as you plan your cruise, remember to embrace every moment, try new things, and fully immerse yourself in the magic of these stunning destinations. Safe travels, and I can’t wait to hear all about your own adventures on the Brilliance of the Seas!