The Adriatic to Amalfi: Croatia, Malta & Italy

Your cruise begins in Italy and the romantic city of Venice. Founded in the fifth century, it 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.  Here, you’ll be transferred to your Emerald luxury yacht to embark on a compelling journey of history, art and natural wonders.  Please book your flight to arrive into Venice prior to 02:00 PM.

Zadar is something 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 first century BC and third century AD, and the majestic St Donatus Church, a symbol of the citys rich heritage.   You’ll be mesmerised by the Sea Organ, stone carvings along the promenade designed so that the lapping waves create natural and hauntingly beautiful melodies. As the sun disappears, you’ll be captivated by Sun Salutation, a dazzling solar-powered installation that lights up at night. 

The heart of the island paradise of Hvar, is the Old Town. While it’s become a modern-day hotspot, it’s layered in history and architectural wonder. Hvar is a photogenic jumble of whitewashed buildings with red roofs and beyond the town are rolling hills peppered with lavender fields, olive groves, and grapevines. 

At the southernmost point of Croatia on the Dalmatian Coast, World Heritage-listed Dubrovnik is known as the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’. The city is renowned for its breathtaking architecture, its red terracotta-tiled roofs and white stone walls making a striking contrast against the turquoise waters that lap below. Stroll through the iconic Old Town, where cobbled streets lead you past magnificent baroque buildings; 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. The impressive Rectors Palace, a 15th-century Gothic-Renaissance palace that was once Dubrovnik ‘s administrative centre, is also a must-visit. 

On the tip of Italy’s Puglia region, Otranto has a charming old town of narrow cobblestone streets, ancient stone walls and stunning medieval architecture. Don’t miss the Otranto Cathedral, built by the Normans in the 11th century and renowned for its frescoes and an intricate mosaic floor from the 12th century. The bones of 813 martyrs are displayed in a glass case behind the altar. Otrantos lovely waterfront affords breathtaking views of the turquoise Adriatic Sea. Spend time soaking up the sun on one of its sandy beaches that line the coast and indulge in delectable Apulian dishes at one of the many quaint trattorias, such as focaccia, burrata and fresh seafood. 

Nestled along the eastern shores of Sicily, Giardini Naxos was one of the earliest Greek settlements on the island, traditionally dated to 734 BC. Today, it’s a charming resort town known for its sandy beaches and vibrant waterfront promenade. It also commands views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna. Giardini Naxos serves as the launchpad for glamorous Taormina, which is called the ‘Pearl of the Ionian Sea’. Just a short journey away, you can immerse yourself in Taormina’s posh Corso Umberto (pedestrian-friendly centre) and see its ancient Greek theatre and enchanting medieval architecture. 

Declared a World Heritage site in 1980, the fortified city of Valletta is one of the most concentrated historic areas in the world, with a staggering 320 monuments. Built on a narrow one-kilometre-long (0.62-mile-long) peninsula in the 16th century by the Knights of St John, the pocket-sized capital of Malta is, today, a blend of rich history, culture, and breathtaking architecture. Stroll through its narrow, cobblestone streets, where every corner reveals a treasure, such as the 16th-century Baroque chapels of St John’s Co-Cathedral. 

On Sicily’s southern coast in the province of Agrigento, the charming town of Porto Empedocle welcomes you with its golden beaches, laid-back atmosphere, and fascinating history. A major port for grain shipments in the 1400s, it later became known for its sulphur and rock salt mining, industries that helped shape the region. The town is named after the ancient philosopher Empedocles, who lived near here in the fifth century BC.   Today, Porto Empedocle is the ideal gateway to explore southern Sicily, offering easy access to the remarkable Valley of the Temples while inviting guests to enjoy its vibrant harbour, local seafood and coastal charm. 

Set on the western tip of Sicily, Trapani is a historic port city with a dramatic coastline. The fortified town has been at the centre of the fishing and salt trade for thousands of years. The coastal salt pans make up part of a unique landscape that comprises windmills, flat-topped pastel-coloured buildings and domed churches. The narrow streets of the picturesque old town are lined with historic Baroque buildings in warm colours, vibrant markets, and eateries offering local delicacies such as fresh seafood and the famous Sicilian cannoli.   You can reach the hilltop medieval village of Erice, located 751 metres (2,464 feet) above sea level, via a cable car ride. Wander the rabbit warren of cobblestoned laneways past crumbling castle ruins and enjoy breathtaking vistas over the town of Trapani below. 

The stunning Amalfi Coast, designated a World Heritage site, 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 and seaside towns that are home to grand Italian villas and glitzy beach clubs hugging the craggy cliffs that rise from the sparkling sea. 

Awaken to a serene morning and enjoy a lavish breakfast on deck as you cruise past the stunning Amalfi Coast and the glamorous isle of Capri, before reaching your next destination.  Casamicciola Terme, nestled on the northern coast of the island of Ischia, is renowned for its wealth of natural thermal springs – so much so that the word ’thermal’ (terme) is part of its name. Known for its rejuvenating waters and wellness culture, it has long been a destination for those seeking relaxation, healing and a touch of luxury amid picturesque surroundings. The town’s thermal heritage is deeply woven into its identity, offering everything from historic spas to modern wellness retreats.  

Your Emerald Cruises luxury voyage concludes here, in the ancient port of Civitavecchia, the gateway to the Eternal City, Rome. You’ll be transferred to the airport for your journey home or to continue your holiday in Rome, exploring its world-renowned sites from the Colosseum and Roman Forum to the Vatican City.  Please book your flight to depart out of Rome 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.