MV Aretis Ushers in a New Era for Small-Ship Luxury Cruising in Croatia
The Dalmatian coast is no stranger to beauty. With the debut of MV Aretis, Cruise Croatia offers travelers a fresh way to experience its coastline. This vessel combines intimate luxury, sleek design, and a structure built specifically for immersive exploration.
Unveiled ahead of her maiden season in Summer 2025, MV Aretis represents more than a fleet expansion. She marks a turning point for Croatia’s small-ship cruise scene. MV Aretis is the first luxury ship of her kind built in Croatia in more than four years. Constructed in Split and tailored for coastal navigation, the ship delivers what today’s discerning cruisers expect.
Designed for Comfort and Connection
The vessel accommodates just 36 guests across 18 en-suite cabins, each measuring up to 160 square feet. This setup ensures a high level of comfort and personal space. Onboard amenities include an upper deck restaurant and bar, a spacious sundeck, and a covered lounge with sofas, loungers, and a jacuzzi.
Moreover, MV Aretis focuses on creating a relaxed and sociable environment. Guests can enjoy the sea air and panoramic views while still finding quiet corners for downtime. It’s a boutique cruise experience built for balance.
Adventure Meets Luxury
Luxury on MV Aretis doesn’t stop with the decor. The ship is designed for travelers who want to engage actively with the destination. Every itinerary includes daily swim stops. In addition, guests can use snorkeling equipment, stand-up paddleboards, a sea kayak, and floatation gear at no extra cost.
This blend of comfort and activity is what sets MV Aretis apart. It’s not just a ship. Instead, it’s a launchpad for exploration.
Commitment to Quality and Craftsmanship
“We believe she offers a truly amazing way to discover the Dalmatian coast,” said Graham Carter, Cruise Croatia’s co-founder. The company invested 20% in the ship’s construction and secured exclusive operating rights. As a result, that level of commitment speaks to its confidence in the product and its long-term vision.
Clearly, MV Aretis is a flagship in both design and delivery. Every feature has been considered with guest experience in mind.
Sailing to Hidden Gems and Classic Ports
The 2025 itineraries run between Split and Dubrovnik. Guests will visit well-known ports like Hvar and Trogir, as well as lesser-known destinations such as Korcula and Vis. Furthermore, nature lovers will appreciate visits to the national parks of Mljet and Krka.
Cruise Croatia has confirmed 19 seven-night departures for 2025. Additionally, an expanded schedule of 24 sailings is already on the books for 2026. This rapid scale-up shows the company’s confidence in strong demand for luxury, small-ship travel in the region.
Smaller Ships, Bigger Impact
While mega-ships often dominate the industry headlines, MV Aretis reminds us that smaller vessels can offer a richer experience. Therefore, for travelers seeking meaningful connections with both people and place, this new ship is a welcome arrival on the Adriatic scene.
