New United Airlines route to Split expected to boost tourism to Mljet National Park

Mljet

Croatia’s growing popularity with American travellers is set to receive another boost as a new direct route between the United States and the Dalmatian coast is set to start.

After introducing direct flights to Dubrovnik in 2021, which significantly increased the number of American visitors to southern Croatia, United Airlines is set to start a new seasonal route connecting Newark Liberty International Airport near New York City with Split Airport.

According to current plans, flights will operate from early May until the end of October 2026. Newark Airport, located in New Jersey, is the second busiest airport on the US East Coast after John F. Kennedy International Airport and is particularly attractive due to its proximity to New York City.

Boost for Croatia’s Islands

Tourism experts expect the additional route to further increase the number of American visitors to Croatia, strengthening the country’s position as one of Europe’s most desirable travel destinations.

The islands of southern Dalmatia, especially those between Split and Dubrovnik, are already extremely popular among US travellers.

Many Americans choose circular itineraries along the Dalmatian coast, travelling between Split and Dubrovnik while exploring islands such as Mljet, Korčula, Hvar and Brač.

These routes are often served by catamarans operated by Krilo Ferry Company, with many vessels stopping in the port of Pomena on Mljet.

As a result, tourism officials expect the new United Airlines service to bring even more international visitors to Mljet National Park, one of Croatia’s most remarkable natural attractions.

Established on 11 November 1960, Mljet National Park was the first marine protected area and the first water-based national park in the Mediterranean.

The park covers nearly 5,300 hectares, including a marine belt extending 500 metres from the coastline, small islands and reefs, occupying roughly one-third of the island of Mljet.

Among its most striking natural features are the partially submerged bays known as Veliko Jezero (Great Lake) and Malo Jezero (Small Lake), unique geomorphological and oceanographic formations that define the landscape of the park.

(Photo: NP Mljet)

The entire area is exceptionally rich in biodiversity, with numerous endemic and endangered species highlighting the importance of conservation.

Mljet National Park also offers a wealth of cultural and historical heritage. One of its most famous landmarks is the Benedictine Monastery of St Mary, located on the picturesque St Mary’s Islet in the centre of Veliko Jezero.

Mljet

Visitors can reach the park by boat from Dubrovnik or the Pelješac Peninsula, as well as via excursion boats from Korčula, Hvar and Split. Most vessels arrive at the ports of Polače and Pomena.

The park offers a range of outdoor activities, from kayaking and swimming to cycling and hiking along scenic trails that connect the lakes with nearby villages.

Popular viewpoints include Montokuc and Veliki Sladin Gradac, which provide panoramic views across the park, the Pelješac peninsula and the Adriatic Sea towards Korčula.

Mljet National Park will officially open its doors for the 2026 season in March.

The park will initially welcome visitors on weekends from 6 March, before switching to daily operations in April.

(Photo: NP Mljet)

Visitors will once again be able to explore well-maintained hiking and walking trails, rich Mediterranean flora and fauna, and the park’s valuable cultural heritage.

A special experience this season will be the park’s solar-powered catamaran, offering quiet and environmentally friendly panoramic cruises across Veliko Jezero.

The highlight of the spring season will be The Great Refresh, taking place from 27 April to 3 May 2026.

During the event week, the park will host a range of recreational and sporting activities, with running races and outdoor events bringing together participants and visitors in one of the Adriatic’s most unique natural environments.

(Photo: Ane Stražičić Rodriguez)

“With the arrival of spring, Mljet once again becomes the perfect destination for those seeking nature, recreation and relaxation,” said Lucija Radulj from Mljet National Park.