Discover the Mediterranean from Athens to Venice

Your cruise begins in the ancient Greek capital, Athens, where you’ll be transferred to your Emerald Cruises luxury yachts. The birthplace of democracy and Western civilisation, Athens is the home of prominent figures of ancient Greece, such as Plato and Socrates.   Please book your flight to arrive into Athens prior to 06:00 PM.

Today it’s time to sail through the 19th-century Corinth Canal. A feat of engineering, this narrow waterway was cut from solid rock and is more than six kilometres long with walls that reach up to 90 metres high. It crosses the isthmus of Corinth in Greece into the Ionian Sea. Sail to the small port of Itea, then embark on a journey to the archaeological site of Delphi, regarded by the Ancient Greeks as the centre of the world. This well-preserved UNESCO World Heritage Site is nestled within the mountainside was a sacred space where pilgrims could hear prophecies directly from the Gods. 

Known as the ‘Caribbean of Greece’ for its lush landscape and crystal-clear waters, Lefkada is connected to the mainland by a narrow bridge, making it one of the few islands here accessible by car. One of the most fascinating places in Lefkada is the Castle of Agia Mavra, which dates to the 14th century and was built to protect the island from invasions. The island’s modern marina has a thriving drinking and dining scene, while the town centre has many churches and museums. 

Located on mainland Greece on the north-west coast, Parga is built like an amphitheatre around a tranquil bay, its buildings vibrant in pastel colours and its waterfront home to a host of tavernas and bars. The 11th century Parga Castle was built by the Venetians on a hilltop and boasts a view over the resort town and Ionian Sea. The coastline has a string of postcard-worthy beaches, while the Ionian islands are a short boat excursion away.  

One of Greece’s most beloved and beautiful islands in the Ionian Sea, Corfu harbours a rich history and magnificent architecture displaying Renaissance and Baroque influences. Its UNESCO-listed Old Town dates to the 8th century and is a labyrinthine of alleyways and home to the largest square in Greece, the impressive Spianada, a leafy green space with gardens and historical monuments. The island is home to authentic Greek villages, as well as beaches lapped by aquamarine waters. Your luxury yacht will spend the evening in Corfu, giving you the opportunity to wander the atmospheric Old Town after dark. 

Your yacht will leave Corfu early this morning and cruise towards Sarandë, a coastal town perched on a crescent-shaped bay in southern Albania. The once sleepy fishing village comprises a bustling seaside promenade, pebbled beaches and ancient ruins, including a 5th century synagogue adorned with intricate mosaics and historical artefacts. 

Encircled by medieval walls, the fortified city of Kotor is an enthralling place of ancient history and modern culture. Nestled between imposing mountains and the Adriatic Sea, this UNESCO World Heritage-listed city is a blend of Venetian palaces, a 12th-century cathedral, cobblestone lanes and café-hemmed squares. Climb the 1350 steps up to St John’s Fortress, where you’ll have spectacular views over the Bay of Kotor. 

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 perfect 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.