Join us for A Watercolor Workshop Cruise
Experience Italy and Croatia like never before with our watercolor workshops on a cruise. Partnering with Windstar Cruise Line, our unique watercolor workshop cruise itineraries take you to charming villages, pristine beaches, and historic cities, offering the opportunity for plein air paint sessions in beautiful locations supplemented with classroom-style instruction onboard.
From the pastel-hues of the Amalfi Coast to the islands of Sicily and Elba, and the historic coastal gems of Croatia, you’ll capture the beauty of the Mediterranean with a brush in hand. Explore hidden harbors and small ports, while still taking in the remarkable history of cities like Rome, Venice, Dubrovnik and more.
workshop includes:
- Half-day watercolor workshops on-and-off board (plein air sessions)
- 8-nights luxury accommodation onboard the Windsurf
- 6 excursions (one in each full-day port) that the art instructor hand-selected
- All on board meals and non-alcoholic beverages are included
- Daily Wifi
workshop DOES NOT INclude:
- Airfare
- Travel Insurance
- Alcoholic beverages
- Gratuities
Where You'll Paint Italy & the Dalmatian Coast
Imagine embarking on a luxurious cruise along the coasts of Italy and Croatia, where each destination—from the romantic canals of Venice to the historic streets of Dubrovnik—serves as your artistic muse. Guided by watercolor instructor Al Kline, you will capture the essence of these enchanting locales, transforming your experiences into vibrant artworks. Alongside a small group of fellow artists who share your passion for creativity and exploration, you’ll forge meaningful connections and create lasting memories on this inspiring journey. This voyage is more than a cruise—it’s an artistic odyssey, where every port is a new canvas waiting to be explored.
Included excursions:
- Rovinj: Seaside Resort of Porec & Wine Tasting
- Split: History of Art
- Dubrovnik: Old Town Highlights
- Kotor: Highlights of Kotor Bay & Baroque Village of Perast
- Giardini Naxos: Taormina on Your Own
- Sorrento: Journey to Pompeii
What You'll Learn Watercolor Workshop Itinerary
We’ve transformed traditional watercolor workshops by combining artistic instruction, cultural immersion, and community engagement aboard luxury cruises. This workshop is open to all skill levels, guided by professional watercolor artist Al Kline, who will teach a variety of techniques, including:
Urban Sketching
Capturing the essence of cityscapes and architectural elements through quick, on-location sketches.
Value Studies
Understanding light and shadow to create depth and dimension in your work.
Plein Air Techniques
Painting outdoors to directly engage with natural landscapes and lighting conditions.
Composition and Design
Arranging elements effectively within your artwork to achieve balance and harmony.
Impressionistic Approaches
Embracing loose brushwork and vibrant colors to convey mood and atmosphere.
meet the artist
Meet Al Kline
your Watercolor instructor
Al Kline is a self-taught Artist who began painting watercolor in April 2017. He is a signature member of the Southwestern Watercolor Society (SWS) and Watercolor Society of South Texas (WSST). He is also member selected for exhibitions in both the American and National Watercolor Societies of America (AWS,NWS).
Through teaching, and now online instruction, Al has gained notice as an accomplished watercolor artist. His ability to simplify the painting process and skill of drawing and design have gained him international recognition.
Al has accepted numerous awards. His work has been recognized in local, state, national and international exhibitions. He is a signature member of the Watercolor Society of South Texas and Southwestern Watercolor Society and member of the American Watercolor Society, National Watercolor Society, and Transparent Watercolor Society of America.
why you should join our
watercolor workshop cruises
are you ready to set sail and paint with us?
watercolor workshop cruise Itinerary
DAY ONE
Venice, Italy
Embarkation Day & Welcome Reception
Arrive and settle into your stateroom on embarkation day. Enjoy a welcome reception with the group and artist meet-and-greet. This is where you will receive an itinerary for the trip, meet other artists and the instructor, and get excited for this incredible painting journey you’re about to embark on.
Day Two
Rovinj, Croatia
Morning Excursion & Afternoon Workshop On Board
As we set sail out of Venice and embark on our first port, enjoy a morning excursion to Poreč, one of Croatia’s cultural gems. Here you will explore its UNESCO-listed Euphrasian Basilica, Roman ruins, and historic streets before enjoying free time in town.
Next, you will visit the Matosevic Winery in Sveti Lovrec for a tasting of locally produced wines paired with Istrian specialties.
In the afternoon, return to the ship for a 4-hour painting session with artist Al Kline, capturing the beauty of the day’s journey.
Day Three
Split, Croatia
Morning Excursion & Afternoon Workshop On Board or En Plein Air
Spend the morning exploring Split, a city rich in history and artistic heritage. Wander through the UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace, marvel at its Roman architecture, and discover the city’s blend of ancient and modern influences. Visit historic squares, medieval alleyways, and vibrant local markets, with time to soak in the coastal charm.
In the afternoon, return to the ship for a 4-hour painting session with artist Al Kline, drawing inspiration from Split’s stunning landscapes and architectural beauty.
day Four
Dubrovnik, Croatia
DAY five
Kotor, Montenegro
Morning Excursion & Afternoon Workshop On Board or En Plein Air
As we arrive in Montenegro, your visit begins with a visit to the charming Baroque village of Perast. Stroll through its pedestrian-only streets, admiring historic churches like St. Nicholas, Sveti Djordje, and Sveti Nikola, before enjoying a taste of traditional sweets from the Baroque period.
Then, take a private boat ride to the island of Our Lady of the Rocks, home to a stunning 17th-century church featuring 68 paintings by local Baroque artist Tripo Kokolja.
Back in Kotor, explore the UNESCO-listed Old Town on a guided walking tour, with free time to wander its medieval streets. In the afternoon, we may have time for plein air painting in town, or we’ll return to the ship for a 4-hour painting session with artist Al Kline.
Day Six
Day At Sea
Full Day At Sea & Watercolor Workshop On Board
Enjoy a full day at sea as we sail from Croatia to Sicily, a perfect opportunity to relax and take in the views from the Wind Surf.
Start your morning at a leisurely pace—sip coffee on deck, watch the sails catch the wind, or indulge in the ship’s luxurious amenities. Midday, join our half-day watercolor workshop with artist Al Kline, where you’ll refine techniques and capture the essence of the open sea. The rest of the day is yours to unwind—enjoy a gourmet meal, lounge by the pool, or simply soak in the beauty of the Adriatic as we sail toward our next destination.
DAY Seven
Taoromina, Sicily
Morning Excursion & Afternoon Workshop On Board
Spend the morning exploring Taormina, one of Sicily’s most enchanting hilltop towns. Perched on a terrace overlooking the sea, Taormina blends ancient Greek and Roman history with charming medieval streets. Enjoy free time to wander its picturesque alleys, visit local cafés, or take in stunning views of Mount Etna. In the afternoon, return to the Wind Surf for a 4-hour onboard watercolor workshop with artist Al Kline, drawing inspiration from the breathtaking Sicilian coastline.
Day Eight
Sorrento, Italy
Morning Excursion & Afternoon Workshop On Board
Today we will explore the ancient ruins of Pompeii, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, perfectly preserved since the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in 79 A.D. Walk through its historic streets and discover baths, theaters, temples, markets, and the grand Forum, gaining insight into daily life in ancient Rome.
After the tour, return to Sorrento to rejoin the Wind Surf as we prepare to set sail for Rome around 2:00 PM.
There will be no formal workshop today, allowing you time in the afternoon to pack, relax, or enjoy some final sketching with the group.
DAY Nine
Rome, Italy
Disembarkation Day & Farewell
Our journey concludes as we dock in Rome in the morning, marking the final stop of our adventure. Whether you’re flying home or continuing your travels, today is a day for onward journeys.
There will be no workshop or excursion today, allowing you time to disembark smoothly and transition to your next destination. Safe travels, and we hope to paint with you again soon!
more than a watercolor workshop what's included
Small Group Painting Experience
- Daily, half-day painting and lessons on and off-board
- One-on-one instruction with your art instructor
- Welcome reception with other students and meet-and-greet with the artist
- Personalized service from on-site travel coordinator
- Small private group setting experience (10 students maximum)
- Free time for painting or sketching in all port cities or leisure time of choice
Luxury Accommodation
- 8 nights luxury accommodation in an outside stateroom
- Wind Surf suites are all queen beds (Limited availability to separate beds, please inquire)
- Complimentary fresh fruit basket
- Cotton waffle robes
- L’Occitane en Provence bath toiletries
- Lighted make-up mirror and hair dryer
- Personal safe
- Beverage mini-bar refrigerator (additional charge)
- Satellite flat screen TV/DVD with movies, TV, News, and Music options
- Individually controlled temperature dial
- Nightly turn-down service
A Variety of Amenities
- Wellness Activities with a dedicated Wellness Host
- Personalized service from a highly trained Cruise Manager during both cruise and land programs
- Sun deck pool with swim-up bar and walking track
- Fitness room
- Daily entertainment including cultural performances
Award-Wining Dining & Reception
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner served daily
- Open single seating dining for all meals
- World-class gourmet cuisine served in Amphora Restaurant
- Indoor/Outdoor Veranda Cafe serving breakfast & lunch
- Al fresco dining in Candles
- Alternative dining at Stella Bistro (Wind Surf Only)
- 24-hour complimentary room service
- Afternoon snacks daily, except on embarkation day
- Captain’s Welcome Aboard cocktail reception
- Deck BBQ under the stars (itinerary and weather dependent, may not be feasible on cruises embarking/debarking in US waters)
Shipboard Services & Entertainment
- Complimentary soft beverages including: bottled water, sparkling water, sodas, fresh juices, fruit smoothies, tea, coffee, cappuccinos, lattes, mochas and espresso
- Outdoor swimming pool and Jacuzzi
- Gym equipment: Cybex weights system, assorted free weights, two treadmills, two bikes, workout mats and benches
- Aft sports platform (marina), equipment includes complimentary snorkel gear, paddleboards, 1-2 person kayaks, and water mats
- Bridge open to all guests while ship is sailing
- Live music in lounge
- Local entertainment (subject to itinerary/availability)
- Library stocked with DVDs, CDs, books, and board games
*The workshop fee does not include airfare, passport or visa fees, travel insurance, alcoholic beverages, excursions other than what was pre-selected for you, and other exclusions as outlined in the deposit form
the votes are in!
New friendships and painting techniques
Return home with beautiful paintings, incredible memories and newfound friendships. Paint By Destination’s watercolor workshops will exceed your expectations and prove to be an investment in both your artistic growth and overall well-being.
Incredible value for
money
Not only will you receive top-notch guidance to improve your watercolor painting skills, but you will enjoy luxury accommodation, curated excursions, and immersive cultural experiences along the most iconic rivers in the world. The convenience and comfort of having everything organized for you makes this worth every cent.