Unforgettable Croatia is on track for another record season, with more than 98 per cent of cabins sold at the halfway point of its 2026 small-ship cruising program.
The luxury operator entered the year with more than 80 per cent of its capacity already booked, following its strongest period of early demand to date. Half of the 2026 program sold within weeks of going on sale.
Australians drive extended cruise holidays
Unforgettable Croatia Co-Founder Graham Carter said average booking values continued to increase, while 68 per cent of this year’s guests were taking their first cruise with the company.
Australians account for one in four passengers booked on 2026 departures and are contributing to growing demand for packages that combine a cruise with hotel stays and land touring.
The average holiday duration has reached 10 days, with travellers adding time in neighbouring destinations including Slovenia and Montenegro. Slovenia bookings have increased by 31 per cent year on year, while additional departures from Šibenik are helping position the port as an alternative to Split for pre- and post-cruise stays.
Private charters gain momentum
Private charters now represent 11 per cent of Unforgettable Croatia’s capacity, with multi-generational families and groups of friends increasingly booking entire vessels for milestone celebrations.
The company’s ships carry a maximum of 36 guests across 18 cabins, providing a more intimate option for birthdays, anniversaries and extended family holidays.
“Our ships are the perfect size for an extended family or group of friends celebrating a big birthday or special occasion,” Carter said.
Early demand builds for 2027
Unforgettable Croatia has also released its 2027 program, featuring 131 guaranteed departures across six ships between May and October.
Almost 29 per cent of available cabins have already been sold. The season introduces two themed cruises focused on Croatian food, wine and history, alongside a complimentary Michelin restaurant booking service for guests seeking reservations in ports along their itinerary.
Bellissima is currently the most in-demand ship for 2027, recording 10 per cent more bookings than any other vessel in the fleet. The newer Aretis is also attracting Australian travellers, who account for one in four guests booked aboard the ship.
All itineraries include airport transfers, daily breakfast, three-course lunches, selected dinners, guided experiences, swim stops, water sports equipment and the services of a professional cruise director. Seven-night cruises start from A$3,746 per person, twin share.
