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Bok! HI!
For years friends were whispering about their vacations in Croatia. With each new recap I became more and more enthralled with the country. I spent time researching different itineraries and opted to explore Croatia via a small cruise ship. I wanted a personalized experience exploring the Dalmatian coastline aboard an intimate vessel. I was so excited, eight blissful days effortlessly hopping from island to island. My crew of four used LiveAboard to book our cabins on Motor Boat Oscar.
Motor Boat Oscar
New in 2022, Motor Boat Oscar is a modern yacht designed for a small ship cruise. The ship is a sexy 204-foot-long and 25-foot-wide vessel that can access smaller ports of call. MB Oscar provides plenty of amenities in both the common areas and the modern 19 cabins. The crew to guest ratio is 1 to 4.
While onboard there are many places to relax after exploring the 1,000-year-old cities and jewel-like islands of Croatia. There are sundecks on both the sunny and upper decks, each with comfy chaise loungers for soaking up the sunshine and views. In addition there is a Jacuzzi on the sunny deck.
When you need a break from the sun, you can relax under a shaded area on the sunny deck or enjoy the air-conditioned dining room and bar area with a television. During swim stops the swimming platform and ladders on the stern of the main deck offer easy access to the sparkling turquoise sea for a refreshing dip.
Contents
Cabins
MB Oscar can accommodate up to 40 guests in its 19 ensuite and air-conditioned cabins. There are 8 cabins on the standard deck, 9 cabins on the main deck, and 2 VIP cabins on the upper deck. Every cabin is well-appointed with air-conditioning, safe, flat-screen television, and toiletries.
Cabin Equipment
Bed linen and towels are provided. Towels are changed every second day, or as needed. Cabins are equipped with double or twin beds with wooden wallboards, working table, chair, mirror, night lamps, safe, radio, hair dryer, shampoo, soap, 220 V electric supply, lifejacket, wardrobe, and luggage space under bed, as well as the latest safety and fire alarm.
Cabins on the lower deck have porthole and dual ventilation system (one in bathroom and one in cabin) while main and upper deck cabins have cabin windows. Cabins are sound-proof and have fire-proof door.
Dining
Meals offered on the ship are dependent on the itinerary. A continental buffet-style breakfast is provided every morning from 7 to 9 am with alternating warm dishes, such as an omelet, scrambled eggs, bacon, and sausage. Lunches (noon) and dinners (7 pm) are served on a three course basis. All meals are enjoyed in a casual, laid-back setting. In addition, fresh fruit is available throughout the day.
We were asked to inform the LiveAboard of any dietary preferences, such as diabetic, gluten free, vegetarian, vegan, etc. One of our travelers is vegan and the galley team accommodated her request perfectly.
Drinks
The ship operates a bar in the salon from 7 am to 11 pm (they were known to keep the bar open later). When you are in need of a beverage, the well-stocked bar offers a selection of soft drinks, beer, local wines, and spirits available for purchase, with your tab settled at the end of the cruise. Our bartenders were well trained in the art of cocktails.
Water
Even though the tap water on board is of good quality, they did not recommend for us to drink it on board or anywhere on our route. Bottled water, available for sale on board, is the safer option.
Electricity
Electrical current on board is the European 220 volts. Plugs you will find in cabins have two round pins of 4.8 mm in diameter. In order to use any appliances (e.g. shavers, battery chargers, etc.) you should bring 2 things:
- Universal Transformer to convert the power if your device does not support 220 volts power.
- Universal Adapter Plugs for sockets if they differ from the ones in your country.
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Internet Connection
Guests are offered the convenience of free Wi-Fi service on board. Please note that internet connection used is cellular service, and connection might be unreliable during some stages of the cruise. For that reason reception sometimes might not be possible or connection speeds might drop. Skype calls will work in bigger towns on the route. Wi-Fi connection can be accessed in the salon or from the rear lounge. In Cabin 13 we were able to access Wi-Fi.
Shipboard Account
There are two types of cabin accounts, ship bill and bar bill. The ship bill consists of port taxes and fees. The bar bill consists of drinks purchased from the bar. Both bills are settled at the end of the cruise in cash. Some guests included port taxes and fees in their package price, we paid on the spot. Check with your booking agent for what is included in your package.
Clothing
Dress code is casual and comfortable. Due to limited space in your cabin it is recommend to pack lightly. It is also advised to bring sturdy walking shoes for sightseeing excursions and some clothes for possible cooler evenings. Suitcases can be stored in the allocated space under the beds. Beach towels are available for rental for a fee.
Guest Mix
There is usually an international mix of guests from all over the world on board – Australia, Italy, New Zealand, Scandinavia, Spain, United Kingdom, USA… The official language on board is English.
Swimming Opportunities
Depending on the weather and the season, there will be several swim stops during the cruise in secluded and peaceful bays where the boat will drop anchor. It is an opportunity to experience swimming off the stern. There are two showers and a ladder for easy climbing. Guests who prefer to swim at a beach will also have ample opportunities to do so during the cruise, as the boat will often be docking close to beaches.
Physical Disabilities
The majority of passenger ships have limited access for disabled guests. Steep staircases, steps of an above average height, and gaps between boats can be expected when embarking/disembarking or crossing from one boat to the other. In addition, the shore excursions are on foot requiring standing and walking for an extended period of time. Guided walking tours usually last 30-60 minutes and include walking on cobbled and uneven surfaces and up and down the stairs.
Noise Levels and Quiet
All guests are asked to behave accordingly and respect quiet hours which officially begin at midnight. Since the boat will be docking for the night in ports of call of varying liveliness and buzz, can expect a certain level of noise coming from the shore and other boats in the harbor. Noise level usually drops by 12:00 pm but sometimes there are festivities which often last long into the night. We did not experience any noise issues.
Tipping
Tips are not included in the cruise price but are a voluntary way of showing satisfaction for good service. While tips are at your discretion, here are some suggestions:
- Crew: approximately 10-12 EUR per crew member per person per week
- Crew Director: approximately 50 EUR per person
For this purpose the Captain will leave envelopes in your cabin two nights before the end of the journey. You can give both of the closed envelopes to Crew Director. We left our envelopes in a designated box at the bar.
Maritime Law
The Captain is responsible for the ultimate safety and comfort of the vessel and its passengers. It is within the Captain’s jurisdiction to change the sequence of stops and ports if necessary due to inclement weather conditions, high or low water levels, dock schedules, technical reasons etc. The Captain has the right to remove unruly passengers and quarantine the ship in case of disease. Shore excursions may be altered in response to sailing conditions and other factors
Ship Rules
- On the first day of the cruise, passports are given to the Captain for a passenger manifest
- During rough weather, movement should be done with care and as little as possible
- Extra care should be exercise when crossing between boats when they are docked together in port
Emergency Numbers
In case of an emergency you can dial following numbers:
112 – Emergency switchboard
194 – Ambulance
Until next time…
· izzy
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