Discover the Charming Mediterranean

Your wonderful voyage begins in Valletta, the tiny capital of the island-nation of Malta and a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site. With its well-preserved buildings, ornate churches and palaces and magnificent fortifications, Valletta presents a living – and stunning – testament to the Baroque period. From here, you’ll be transferred to your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht to begin your journey through the spellbinding West Mediterranean. Please book your flight to arrive into Valletta prior to 02:00 PM.

Your first port of call is Syracuse, a historic city located on the southeastern coast of Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. This splendid Sicilian city is renowned for its ancient ruins, picturesque architecture and stunning waterfront views. One of Syracuse’s most famous landmarks is the Archaeological Park of Neapolis, home to well-preserved Greek and Roman-era amphitheatres and an ancient quarry known as the ‘Ear of Dionysius.’ The historical centre, Ortygia, is a charming island connected to the mainland by a series of bridges. Stroll through the narrow, winding streets lined with striking Baroque buildings, visit the stunning Cathedral of Syracuse, and savour freshly caught seafood at charming waterfront restaurants.

Continuing to the eastern shores of Sicily and Giardini Naxos, a picturesque seaside town that reveals stunning views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna, the fabled active volcano. Giardini Naxos is popular for its beautiful sandy beaches lapped by clear aquamarine waters, and vibrant waterfront promenade lined with restaurants, shops, and cafés.  The town also harbors a rich tapestry of history, with archaeological sites that date back to ancient Greek and Roman times and is located near to the esteemed Taormina Archaeological Park.

Relish the nautical adventure of a lifetime with some relaxing downtime and a day at sea. Enjoy the lavish comforts of your contemporary stylish yacht: ascend to the Sky Deck to drink in the panoramic views, slip into the inviting infinity-pool that magically appears to blur with the azure horizon, or simply unwind in the serene Observation Lounge.

Welcome to Greece and Fiskardo, a delightful village located on the northernmost part of the Ionian Island of Kefalonia. Explore the vibrant harbour, prettily encircled with cypress and olive trees and the beautifully preserved Venetian architecture and be sure to sample the excellent local wines and fresh seafood – best enjoyed on a waterfront restaurant.

The small seaside town of Itea presents beautiful coastal scenery and is also close to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed site of The Delphi Sanctuary. Delphi is home to the ruins of the Temple of Apollo and is considered the epicentre of the world in Greek mythology. Afterwards, it’s time to pass through the 19th century Corinth Canal, a man-made waterway that crosses the Isthmus of Corinth in Greece. From the exterior decks, watch as the ship navigates the slender strip of water bordered by soaring ochre-coloured cliffs – a crossing exclusively reserved for smaller-sized vessels.

This world-famous islands allure lies in its blend of traditional Greek culture and cosmopolitan flair. Whitewashed houses adorned with vibrant blue doors edging the streets of atmospheric Mykonos Town and the bustling waterfront area add further to the charm; so too, the island’s historic windmills. From Mykonos, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the sacred island of Delos, whose enthralling archaeological ruins are today, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site.

On Turkey’s western Aegean coast, Kusadasi offers visitors a fascinating blend of history, beautiful beaches, and vibrant markets. This Turkish beach resort town’s history dates to ancient times and has witnessed many rulers, including those from the Byzantine, Venetian, and Genoese eras. Kusadasi is located near several ancient remnants, including Ephesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, that offers a glimpse into the grandeur of one of the ancient worlds most important cities. This afternoon, we depart from the lively port of Kusadasi  and set a southerly course through the Mycale Strait—a narrow and scenic waterway that gracefully threads between the Turkish coast and the Island of Samos. As we cruise along this storied passage, take in the tranquil seascapes and the sweeping views of both shores bathed in afternoon light. By evening, we arrive in the enchanting town of Pythagoreio.

After a restful night, we continue our journey from a place where ancient history gently weaves through everyday life. Recognized alongside the Heraion of Samos as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Pythagoreio offers a glimpse into a time of remarkable cultural and architectural achievement. From the ingenious Tunnel of Eupalinos to stories of Pythagoras himself, this peaceful harbour holds a legacy that’s both inspiring and unforgettable.

Today, you’ll arrive in Paros, considered one of the prettiest Greek islands in the heart of the azure Aegean Sea. Its verdant green landscape is adorned with vineyards and orchards laden with fragrant citrus fruits and pomegranates. Wander the winding streets of the capital Parikia, admiring the quintessential Cycladic architecture and quaint white houses with bright blue doors and window boxes, brimming with blooming bougainvillea.

After breakfast, set off to explore Athens and discover the hidden gems of the ancient capital of Greece. The birthplace of Western democracy and civilisation, this historic city charms with both iconic landmarks and modern Greek dynamism.  In the afternoon, you’ll be welcomed back on board your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht for the second half of your journey, where you’ll get to explore the many splendours along the coasts of Greece and Turkey.

A small rocky island at the heart of the Cyclades archipelago, Delos is one of the most important mythological and archaeological sites in Greece. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to a vast array of well-preserved ruins, extending to temples, dwellings, marketplaces and theatres. Delos is also believed to be the birthplace of the Greek God Apollo and his twin sister, Artemis. In the afternoon, you’ll cruise to Mykonos, an island known for its white-sand coastline lapped by cyan water and buzzy beach clubs. The main town is a labyrinth of narrow stone-paved streets lined with whitewashed buildings, and filled with shops, cafés and restaurants. The islands iconic windmills were constructed in the 16th century by the Venetians. Sixteen of these windmills still exist today, including seven that are perched on a hill just south of Mykonos Town. Away from the beaches, the island’s countryside is dotted with small villages, farms and chapels.

Often referred to as the ‘Island of the Apocalypse’, Patmos is said to be where the Apostle John wrote the Book of Revelation and is considered an important pilgrimage site in Europe. Its historic centre Chora was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981. It is an enchanting town comprising whitewashed buildings and narrow cobblestone streets lined with traditional Greek tavernas, shops and some 40 chapels. The island has a wild and rugged volcanic landscape that rolls down to deserted pebbled beaches and the sparkling Aegean Sea. Spend time soaking up the beauty, the spirituality and cultural significance of this island.

Along Turkey’s western Aegean coast,  Kusadasi was once a small fishing town but is now a buzzy cruise port and beach resort filled with traditional Turkish markets and a thriving night scene.  Kusadasi is also the gateway to the ancient city of Ephesus, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed Site and one of the ancient worlds most important cities. Excavations have revealed ruins of Hellenistic and Roman settlements and grand monuments, including the remains of the famed Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

The Dodecanese Island of Kos is home to millennia-old ancient ruins, including the famous Asklepion, a traditional healing centre dedicated to the Greek God of medicine, Asklepios, and the Castle of the Knights, a medieval fortress that has stunning views of the surrounding area. It’s also the birthplace of Hippocrates, one of the most well-known physicians of ancient Greece. The main town is a mishmash of architectural styles, and you’ll find whitewashed dwellings side by side with Muslim mosques, 1930s Italian-style buildings and the medieval Neratzia Castle. Aside from its staggering history, the island is also blessed with stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters.

Known for its spectacular views, gleaming whitewashed architecture and legendary sunsets, Santorini is a beloved Greek island. The island’s villages are dramatically built into the cliffs of a caldera, a thousand-year-old volcanic crater that is beneath the ocean, offering jaw-dropping vistas of the Aegean Sea. Its main towns Fira and Oia are instantly recognisable for their whitewashed buildings that have been built into the caldera like caves and blue-domed churches, many of which are adorned with hot-pink bougainvillea and prickly pear. Get lost in the winding alleyways, which are home to tavernas, small bars and boutique stores, with many vantage points of the caldera and beyond.

Paros is another paradisiacal Greek island that has allured since the sixth century BC for its high-quality marble, Parian marble, used for the construction of many temples and public buildings. It’s home to ancient ruins, Venetian castles and traditional Greek architecture and draws in visitors to its stunning beaches, crystal-clear azure waters and charming local villages. The main town,  Parikia, is nestled on a hill overlooking the port. Its cobbled lanes are bustling with activity, lined with shops, cafés and restaurants serving delicious local Greek cuisine. It also has an historic Frankish castle built in the 1200s. The island’s other town, Naoussa, is a picturesque harbour where wooden boats sway and waterside restaurants grill freshly caught seafood.

Your luxurious yacht cruise concludes in the dynamic Greek capital, Athens. Farewell your crew and fellow travellers, taking with you a lifetime of memories. You will be transferred to the airport for your return flight home or continuation of your journey. Please book your flight to depart out of Athens after 01:00 PM. 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.