Discover French & Italian Coastlines

Your journey begins in the South of France, and the charming port city of Nice, nestled along the chic French Riviera, or Côte d'Azur. From here, you'll be transferred to your luxury Emerald yacht to begin a wondrous voyage through the alluring Western Mediterranean and its captivating rivieras.

Officially known as the Principality of Monaco, this 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 d'Azur 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 also hosts numerous cultural events throughout the year, celebrating everything from music to the visual arts, as well as the annual Monaco Grand Prix, a prestigious Formula One motor racing event.

Welcome to Italy and Santa Margherita Ligure, a pretty 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. Embedded along the Italian Riviera, 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.

Situated along the Ligurian coast and Italy's northwest shores, Porto Venere is an ancient city dating back to Roman times. Now a World Heritage site, it's imbued with 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 bathed and meditated here in the early 1800s. One of Porto Venere's 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.

Early in the morning, you'll cruise to the beautiful Tuscany region and Marina di Carrara, known for its marble heritage and scenic views of the Apuan Alps. The highly prized Carrara marble quarried near here 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 the purest marble contrast beautifully with Marina di Carrara's coastal scenery. A late departure gives you time to explore the lively seafront promenade packed with bars and restaurants after the sun goes down.

Along the western coast of Tuscany, the bustling city of Livorno boasts a modern seaport, but is best known for its beauty, picturesque views of the azure Mediterranean Sea and delicious fresh seafood. Not surprisingly, the city's renowned culinary scene is heavily influenced by its seaside location, tempting with signature dishes such as 'cacciucco', a traditional fish stew that's a must-try for anyone who visits. Livorno is also the gateway to the city of Florence, cradle of the Renaissance, and famed for its art, architecture and history.

Today, you'll arrive in Calvi, on the northwest shore of the French island of Corsica. Local legend claims Calvi was the birthplace of Christopher Columbus, although historians generally believe he was born in Genoa. While the true origins of the famed explorer remain debated, the natural beauty and rich culture of Calvi are undisputed. Calvi's gorgeous beach presents a crescent-shaped bay of powdery white sand fringed by maritime pines. The town has evolved to become Corsica's cultural capital, hosting several music festivals and art exhibitions during the idyllic summer months.

After breakfast, set off to explore Rome and uncover the storied ancient history of this enthralling 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 luxury Emerald yacht for the second half of your journey, ready to explore more of the wonders of the West Mediterranean.

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.

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.