Golden Coasts of France and Italy

Your luxury cruise begins in Nice, the largest city on the Côte d'Azur, where you'll be transferred to your Emerald luxury yacht to begin your journey through the Western Mediterranean.

The resort town of Saint-Tropez is one of the most famous holiday destinations in Europe and has been drawing celebrities, royals and the elite for more than 70 years. From the soft white sand edging blue water to the on-trend beach clubs, decadent dining and luxury boutiques, Saint-Tropez is the ultimate French Riviera experience. For history buffs, learn the story of Saint-Tropez at the Musée d'Histoire Maritime, or peruse modern art inside a former chapel of the Musée de l'Annonciade.

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 is also the host of 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 Santa Margherita Ligure, a pretty 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. With a late departure, you can stroll the illuminated waterfront and glittering piazetta (main square) after dark.

Arrive early this morning in Porto Venere on the Italian Ligurian coast. This ancient town dates to Roman times 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 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. Cruise to Marina di Carrara, where you will remain docked overnight.

Welcome to Tuscany and the seaside town of Marina di Carrara, famed for the pure, pale Italian marble that is mined and quarried from the nearby mountains. The marble has been used for some of the most important artistic wonders of the world, such as Michelangelo's David. The glimmering marble-threaded mountains contrast against the coastal scenery of Marina di Carrara. 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 Italy's beautiful Tuscany region, 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 is a must-try for anyone who visits here. Livorno is also the gateway to the city of Florence, cradle of the Renaissance, and famed for its art, architecture and history.

Set on the northwestern shore of the French island of Corsica, Calvi is said to be the place where the intrepid global explorer Christopher Columbus was born. While historians debate this, the natural beauty and rich culture of Calvi is undisputed. Calvi's beach is a sweeping bay of powdered white sand fringed by maritime pines, and the town has emerged as Corsica's capital of culture, hosting several music festivals and art exhibitions over the summer months.

Perched atop a narrow limestone peninsula on the French Island of Corsica, Bonifacio reveals breathtaking views of the 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. Be sure to visit The Staircase of the King of Aragon (Escalier du Roi d'Aragon), a steep flight of steps carved into the cliffside, which leads down to the clear, blue-green sea.

Part of Sardinia's Costa Smeralda, Porto Cervo is a luxurious resort town that blends contemporary Mediterranean design 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. The 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 retains its unmistakable Sardinian charm, surrounded by jaw-dropping natural beauty.

Just to the northwest of Rome, Porto Ercole has long been popular with elite Italian travellers. This laidback harbour town has a picturesque bay dotted with yachts and fishing boats, offering relaxed days, family-run restaurants and secluded sandy beaches. The town is a maze of narrow laneways, stone houses and several important landmarks, including Forte Filippo, Forte Stella, and the Rocca, all built during Spanish domination in the 16th century.

Your luxurious yacht cruise concludes in Civitavecchia, Rome's main seaport, where you'll be transferred to the airport for your return flight home or to continue your holiday.

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.