Discover Greece, Corinth Canal & the Adriatic

Your exciting cruise begins in Greece and the dynamic capital, Athens. Drenched in history, this ancient city is renowned as the birthplace of democracy and Western civilisation. From here, you’ll be transferred to your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht to embark on a memorable voyage exploring fascinating towns and extraordinary coastlines. Please book your flight to arrive into Athens prior to 02:00 PM.

A small rocky island embedded in the heart of the Cyclades archipelago, Delos is regarded as one of the most important mythological and archaeological sites in Greece. In the afternoon, you’ll venture to the world-famous island of Mykonos, which captivates visitors with its blend of traditional Greek culture and cosmopolitan flair.  Take a stroll through the winding narrow streets of atmospheric Mykonos Town, where you can admire the trademark whitewashed dwellings fronted by distinctive blue doors. Be sure to also visit the historic windmills, another iconic sight on this popular island.

On board your luxury yacht, today, you’ll pass through the 19th century Corinth Canal, a slender waterway and feat of engineering that crosses the Isthmus of Corinth in Greece. This is a rare sailing experience, as few cruise vessels are able to navigate through this man-made canal. You’ll then sail on to the small port of Itea, before embarking on a journey to Delphi, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed archaeological site, regarded by the Ancient Greeks as the centre of the world.

Known as the ‘Caribbean of Greece,’Lefkada is connected to the mainland by a narrow bridge, making it one of the few islands accessible by car. One of the most fascinating places on this beautiful island is the Castle of Agia Mavra, dating back to the 14th century and built to protect Lefkada from invaders. As well as soaking up the island’s natural beauty and centuries-old history, enjoy sampling the delicious local wines produced here.

On mainland Greece, the resort town of Parga radiates a carefree holiday atmosphere. Enjoy the Mediterranean sunshine on one of the many lovely beaches, wander through traditional Greek villages and marvel at the 11th century Venetian Castle, which reveals an incredible bird’s eye view of this popular town and sparkling Ionian coastline. From Parga, you’ll journey to one of Greece’s largest and greenest islands, Corfu, alluring with sandy coves and rugged, verdant hills studded with olive, cypress, and citrus trees.

One of Greece’s largest and greenest islands, you’ll find Corfu alluring with its sandy coves and beaches and rugged, verdant hills. While on this stunning island, explore authentic Greek villages and take a refreshing dip in the inviting, clear waters. Don’t miss a visit to the picturesque Old Town of Corfu, which harbours a rich history and magnificent heritage architecture displaying Renaissance and Baroque influences. Here, stroll through the largest square in Greece, the impressive Spianada and soak up the local ambience and history.

Today we cruise the Straits of Corfu to Albania and Sarandë, a popular coastal town perched on a crescent-shaped bay. This once sleepy fishing village welcomes with a bustling seaside promenade and pebbled beaches. Its relaxed atmosphere makes it a perfect base for exploring the nearby ancient ruins of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its archaeological significance.

Encircled by medieval walls, the fortified city of Kotor, set along Montenegro’s beautiful coastline, presents a fascinating destination that seamlessly combines ancient history and vibrant modern culture. Nestled between imposing mountains and the Adriatic Sea, this UNESCO World Heritage-listed setting is sure to charm with its elegant Venetian palaces, cobblestone narrow lanes and café-hemmed squares.

Set off the Croatian mainland, the charming Island of Vis was closed to visitors until 1989. Today, this historical background has given Vis a rare sense of tranquillity and authenticity. Its rocky coastline, azure waters and well-preserved Venetian architecture made Vis the ideal backdrop for the popular film, ‘Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again,’ (2018).

Welcome to the dazzling city of Dubrovnik, along Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian Coast. Coined the Pearl of the Adriatic, this UNESCO World Heritage-listed city is renowned for its breathtaking architecture: its red terracotta tiled roofs and whiteish walls striking against the turquoise waters that laps below.

Welcome to Dubrovnik, the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’ and a compelling  city nestled along Croatias rugged Dalmatian Coast. Dubrovnik’s magnificent walled Old Town, encircled with massive stone walls completed in the 16th century, presents one of the finest examples of a medieval citadel in Europe. With its storied history and breathtaking views of iconic terracotta rooftops and the sparkling Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik offers the ideal blend of cultural exploration and a relaxing beach holiday.

Enjoy another fascinating day exploring the city of Dubrovnik. Be awed by the impressive Rectors Palace, a 15th-century Gothic Renaissance palace that was once the administrative centre of Dubrovnik. Enjoy a drink on the Stradun, the main thoroughfare through the city, and take a walk along the ancient city walls for panoramic views over the rooftops and Adriatic Sea. 

Split is a stunning city laden with culture, history, and striking architecture. Take a stroll along the Riva, a palm-lined promenade that is the beating heart of the city, past beautiful terraces and bustling eateries with harbour views. Built from the 4th century AD and added to over millennia, the ruins of the Diocletians Palace dominate the city centre. This incredible UNESCO World Heritage Site comprised an imperial residence, military fortress, fortified town, with gates and walls; its remnants housing myriad bars and cafés today. 

In the morning, get ready to set sail from Split to Zadar, cruising close to Pašman and Biograd islands. Zadar is somewhat of a hidden Croatian gem, a captivating blend of ancient history and modern charm. As you stroll through its cobbled streets, youll encounter spectacular Roman ruins, including the well-preserved Roman Forum constructed between the 1st Century BC and 3rd Century AD, and the majestic St. Donatus Church, a symbol of the citys rich heritage. You’ll be mesmerised by the Sea Organ. These stone carvings along the promenade were designed so the lapping waves create natural and hauntingly beautiful melodies. As the sun disappears, be captivated by Sun Salutation, a dazzling solar-powered installation that lights up at night. 

On the western peninsula of Croatia, southwest of the city of Rijeka, Opatija has alluring views across the Adriatic towards the Kvarner Islands and the distant Istrian Mountains. Known as the ‘Nice of Croatia’, Opatija was a seaside resort for the aristocratic class during the Austro-Hungarian Empire and it retains its lovely seaside promenades, handsome villas and manicured parks and gardens. 

Piran is a pretty town of red-tiled and whitewashed buildings clustered on the tip of Slovenia’s Piran Peninsula. Part of the Venetian Empire from the late 13th century to the end of the 18th century, Piran is known for its Gothic-style Venetian architecture. The town has a history of salt panning and its landscape is also dotted with olive groves and pebbly beaches. Restaurants line the waterfront and many serve seafood direct from the Adriatic, but you’ll also notice the Italian influences with gelaterias and pizzerias.

Today, you will arrive in Venice, a truly enchanting city that exudes an evocative atmosphere not found anywhere else in the world. Established in the 5th century, this romantic city was founded in the 5th century and stretches across 118 small islands of the marshy Venetian Lagoon. The grandeur of this city needs no introduction, from its legendary canals to magnificent St Mark’s Basilica. It’s a spectacular city to get lost in, with its maze-like alleyways and vibrant squares. Your luxury yacht will spend the evening in Venice, giving you the opportunity to settle into a quaint bar or cruise down a canal in a gondola when the city lights start begin to twinkle. 

Your Emerald Cruises voyage concludes here. From your luxury yacht, you will be transferred to the airport for your journey home or to continue your holiday.  Please book your flight to depart out of Venice after 11:00 AM. The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Emerald Cruises cannot guarantee the cruise will operated unaltered from the itinerary states above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.