Highlights of Southern Italy

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. From here, you’ll be transferred to your luxury Emerald yacht and begin your wondrous voyage exploring the Western Mediterranean. Please book your flight to arrive into Rome prior to 02:00 PM.

The much-loved resort town of Sorrento is perched dramatically on cliffs along the Sorrentine Peninsula, with sweeping views across the Bay of Naples and 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.

A World Heritage-listed gem, Amalfi enchants with its narrow streets, colourful façades and artisan ceramic shops clustered around the magnificent Duomo di Amalfi. Perched high on the clifftops, it has long attracted visitors for its stunning views of the azure Tyrrhenian Sea, picturesque streets and rich history. The town is also famous for its beautiful cathedral, the Duomo di Amalfi, which dates to the ninth century and features intricate Byzantine mosaics.

Giardini Naxos, on Sicily’s eastern coast, offers sweeping views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna. The town is known for its beautiful sandy beaches, clear blue waters, and vibrant waterfront promenade lined with restaurants, shops, and cafes. Giardini Naxos is the gateway to the exclusive resort of Taormina, perched on the side of the mountain above. One of Italy’s most popular summer destinations, known for its luxury hotels, historic charm, and spectacular view. The area also has a fascinating history, with archaeological sites dating back to ancient Greek and Roman times.

Gallipoli is a charming town on the Salento Peninsula of Puglia, its historic centre set on an island linked to the mainland by a 16th-century bridge. Its name translates to ‘beautiful city’, and you’ll be instantly charmed by its turquoise ocean, golden bay, colourful fishing boats and pale stone buildings. Explore the old town on foot, visit its ancient fortress and feast on fresh seafood.

Regarded as ‘the far east of Italy’, Otranto gazes out onto the Adriatic Sea and was historically a key port for trade and conquest during Roman times. Today, Otranto is a charming seaside town where layers of history blend seamlessly with relaxed coastal life. Wandering through its narrow streets, you’ll encounter honey-coloured stone buildings, historic churches and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the sea. Otranto’s unique blend of maritime heritage and old-world charm makes it one of Puglia’s most captivating coastal towns.

Founded in 545 AD, Monopoli’s layered past – shaped by Byzantine, Venetian and Ottoman influences – lives on in its fortifications, Baroque churches and lively old town. Each era has left its mark on the town’s architecture and atmosphere, from sturdy defensive structures to elegant historic buildings that line the old streets. This layered heritage gives Monopoli a character that feels both distinctly Apulian and intriguingly cosmopolitan.

Your luxury Emerald voyage concludes in historic Dubrovnik, aptly known as the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’. This hugely popular city is home to an old Walled Town, one of the finest examples of a medieval citadel in Europe. After bidding farewell to your crew and fellow guests, you’ll disembark in Dubrovnik and transfer to the airport for your return flight or onward journey. Please book your flight to depart out of Dubrovnik 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 be operated unaltered from the itinerary stated above.