Discover the Splendours of Italian & French coastlines

Your cruise begins in Italy at Civitavecchia, the historic seaport and main gateway for the ancient capital of Rome. Known as the ‘Eternal City,’ Rome is littered with iconic landmarks that bear testament to its former status as the epicentre of the mighty Roman Empire. Here, you’ll be transferred to your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht to begin your voyage discovering the delights of the Italian coastline. Please book your flight to arrive into Rome prior to 02:00 PM.

The stunning Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most famous destinations. This glorious stretch of coastline has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site and has been a much-loved holiday destination since ancient times. Located in Southern Italy’s Campania region, just south of Naples, the Amalfi Coast boasts idyllic beaches, seaside towns that are home to grand Italian villas and glitzy beach clubs hugging the craggy cliffs that rise from the sparkling sea.  Tonight we dock overnight in the island of Capri, giving you the opportunity to explore the island at its most intimate—bathed in golden light, quiet sophistication, and after-hours enchantment.

The allure of Capri is timeless. From the first century AD, Roman Emperors chose this spectacularly beautiful island as their private retreat – the ruins of their grand villas still dot the shore. Take a leisurely stroll along the narrow, winding streets and dine al fresco under twinkling fairy lights, sampling the island’s traditional specialties that have become world-famous,, like caprese salad and limoncello, a sweet lemon liqueur. Admire the towering cliffs and hidden sea caves, including the Blue Grotto, which is magically illuminated. Your yacht will return to the mainland this evening to spend the night docked in Sorrento.

Awake to the sun sparkling over the pastel buildings of Sorrento. This much-loved resort town is perched dramatically atop cliffs that overlook the Bay of Naples and boasting stunning views of Mount Vesuvius across the water. An impossibly romantic haven, Sorrento bewitches with its elegant Italian villas, world-class restaurants serving up mouth-watering cuisine and fragrant lemon groves, which contribute to the production of limoncello – famous the world over. Get a glimpse into its storied past as you explore grand cathedrals and palazzos built of warm golden stone, then sit down at a cafe to watch the world go by.

Set halfway between Naples and Rome, Gaeta is on a headland that juts out into the sea, making for sweeping views up and down the coast. It remains one of the hidden gems of this region and a popular weekend getaway for Italians. As well as its beautiful beach and abundant fresh fish, Gaeta is best known for Montagna Spaccata (Split Mountain), a natural sea grotto and 11th century sanctuary. According to local legend, the miraculous rock split was created when God sent a lightning bolt that formed three giant cracks in the mountain, which dramatically plunges into the sea.

Part of Sardinia’s Costa Smeralda, Porto Cervo is a luxurious resort town that blends Italian, Spanish, Greek and North African influences. Effortlessly chic, Porto Cervo draws those who appreciate the finer things in life—from glamorous hotels and designer boutiques to exceptional dining and vibrant nightlife. Porto Cervos marina is packed with opulent yachts and is the host of prestigious sailing events such as the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup. Despite its reputation for luxury, Porto Cervo hasn’t lost its unmistakable Sardinian charm and is surrounded by jaw-dropping natural beauty.

Perched atop a narrow limestone peninsula on the French Island of Corsica, Bonifacio has breathtaking views of the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. Take a step back in time, exploring Bonifacio’s atmospheric Old Town, a fortified medieval citadel filled with quaint narrow streets and historic structures. Don’t miss The Staircase of the King of Aragon (Escalier du Roi dAragon), a steep flight of steps carved into the cliffside, which leads down to the clear, blue-green sea.

After breakfast, set off to explore Rome and uncover the storied history of this enchanting Italian capital. Once the epicentre of the mighty Roman empire, admire the wealth of iconic ancient legacies evident today, including The Colosseum, The Pantheon and Roman Forum. Be sure, however, to get a taste of Italy’s famous ‘La Dolce Vita’ (‘the good life’) and enjoy a gelato (ice-cream) in one of Rome’s vibrant piazzas. In the afternoon, you’ll be welcomed back on board your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht for the second half of your journey, ready to explore more of the wonders of the West Mediterranean.

Your first port of call is Calvi, on the northwest shore of the French Island of Corsica. According to local legend, Calvi was the birthplace of the 15th century Italian explorer, Christopher Columbus. While historians may debate this, the natural beauty and rich culture of Calvi is undisputed. Calvis gorgeous beach presents a crescent-shaped bay of powdery white sand fringed by maritime pines, while the town has evolved to become Corsica’s ‘culture capital,’ hosting several music festivals over the idyllic summer months.

Along the western coast of Italy’s beautiful Tuscany region, the bustling city of Livorno boasts a modern seaport, but is best known for its scenic beauty, picturesque views of the azure Mediterranean Sea and delicious fresh seafood.  Not surprisingly, the citys renowned culinary scene is heavily influenced by its seaside location, tempting with signature dishes such as cacciucco,a traditional fish stew that is a must-try for anyone who visits here.

Further along the Tuscan coast, you’ll arrive in Marina di Carrara. This lovely seaside town famous for the pale and premium Italian marble that is mined and quarried from the nearby mountains. The highly-prized Carrara marble not only ranks as one of Italy’s most celebrated artisan products, but has been, used for centuries to create some of the world’s most important artistic wonders, including Michelangelo’s iconic Statue of David. These shimmering mountains of purest marble contrast beautifully with Marina di Carrara’s pretty coastal scenery.

Today, you’ll set sail early in the morning, bound for the Italian Ligurian coast and Porto Venere. This ancient town dates back to the first century BC and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. It harbours a romantic history, thanks to its penchant for attracting famous poets and artists over the centuries. Porto Venere’s wonderful swimming spots were beloved by, amongst others, the legendary English poet, Lord Byron, who regularly swam and meditated here in the early 1800s. One of Porto Veneres most striking features is its Gothic-style Church of St. Peter, dating back to the 12th century and resting atop a rocky headland overlooking the sparkling sea.

Welcome to Santa Margherita Ligure, a charming Italian resort town with panoramic views that’s revered for its timeless elegance and style. For those seeking ‘La dolce vita,, you’re sure to find it in abundance here. Stroll the Santa Margherita promenade, or the pebbly beachfront, admiring the gleaming yachts and sailing boats. Marvel at an impressive Baroque-era church along the cobbled streets and savour succulent red shrimps, the local fishermen’s catch of the day. Later in the morning, you’ll sail on to delightful Portofino. Nestled along the Italian Riviera, the eternally popular Portofino boasts a rich gastronomic scene, a picturesque harbour and narrow streets lined with charming pastel-hued houses, high-end boutiques and restaurants specialising in freshly-caught seafood.

Officially known as the Principality of Monaco, this e sovereign city-state is famous for its opulence and glamour, boasting high-end casinos, a glitzy harbour lined with superyachts and the exclusive Monte Carlo district, a jetsetter’s haven. This dazzling gem of the Côte dAzur is the official residence of Monaco’s royal household – the palace has been home to the Grimaldi family since the late 13th century – and boasts several museums. Monaco is also the host of numerous cultural events throughout the year, celebrating everything from music to the visual arts, while Monte Carlo is renowned for its annual Monaco Grand Prix, a prestigious Formula One motor racing event.

Your unforgettable yacht cruise concludes this morning in the French Riviera, at the alluring port  city of Nice.  After bidding farewell to your crew and fellow guests, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your return flight home, or to continue your travels. Please book your flight to depart out of Nice 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. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.