I invite you to join Archaeological Institute of America lecturer and host Ivancica (Vanca) Schrunk aboard a modern, 18-cabin yacht for an early autumn cruise along the spectacular coast of Croatia. Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, Ottomans, and Austrians have vied for control of this strategic coastline that is dotted with over 1,000 islands. In a region well worth exploring for its natural beauty alone, you will visit spellbinding archaeological sites, impressive cathedrals, dramatic palaces, and ancient city centers. Begin the program in Slovenia’s capital city, Ljubljana, a city with roots back to Roman times. Discover magical Lake Bled, monumental karst caves, and mountain aeries before continuing to Pula, Croatia, to begin your seven-night Adriatic cruise from the Istrian Peninsula to Dubrovnik, visiting Mali Lošinj, Zadar, Šibenik, Krka National Park, Split, Hvar, and Korcula along the way. A leisurely pace allows for free time in town to sample local cuisine and mingle with locals.