Mediterranean Highlights: Sardinia, Ibiza & the Riviera

Your journey begins in Palma de Mallorca, the heart of the Balearic Islands. Stroll the cobbled streets of the old town, visit the majestic La Seu Cathedral, and enjoy café-lined plazas that capture the island's warm, cosmopolitan rhythm. For a serene escape, head to nearby Valldemossa or the unspoilt coves of the western coast before boarding your luxury yacht.

A blend of bohemian spirit and unspoilt beauty, Ibiza enchants far beyond its famed nightlife. Spend the day exploring the World Heritage-listed Dalt Vila fortress, perusing art galleries and boutiques, finding the alternative community at bustling markets, or relaxing on tranquil beaches such as Cala Conta and Talamanca. As the sun sets, savour tapas by the waterfront or watch the island's legendary sunset over Es Vedrà.

Relish this nautical adventure of a lifetime with some relaxing downtime and a day at sea. Enjoy the lavish comforts of your contemporary stylish yacht: ascend to the Sky Deck to drink in the panoramic views, plunge into the inviting infinity-pool that magically appears to blur with the azure horizon or simply unwind relax in the serene Observation Lounge.

Nestled on Sardinia's northwest coast, Alghero is a colourful fusion of Catalan and Italian culture. Within its medieval walls, wander old cobblestone lanes that lead to hidden piazzas and sea-facing bastions. Nearby beaches like Maria Pia offer soft sands and clear waters, while local trattorias tempt with fresh seafood and Vermentino wine. The region's relatively mild climate combined with the delicate aromas of the local Mediterranean vegetation make this charming town one of the highlights of your journey.

Step ashore in peaceful Propriano, a Corsican harbour town framed by turquoise bays and mountain peaks. Soak in the relaxed coastal charm while exploring the old port or venture to nearby Campomoro for gentle hikes and hidden swimming coves. The scent of wild herbs and sea salt lingers in the air, perfectly capturing Corsica's natural rhythm.

Officially known as the Principality of Monaco, the sovereign City-State of Monaco is renowned worldwide for its opulence and glamour, high-end casinos, glitzy yacht-lined harbour and the exclusive Monte Carlo district, where the prestigious Grand Prix motor racing event is held annually. This gem of the Côte d'Azur (French Riviera) is also home to Monaco's royal household, several museums and numerous cultural events hosted throughout the year, celebrating anything from music and dance to theatre and the visual arts.

Chic yet unpretentious, Portofino embodies Italian seaside elegance. Stroll the Piazzetta, browse high-end boutiques, or sample Ligurian specialties overlooking the harbour. For panoramic views, hike to the lighthouse or visit Castello Brown perched above the bay, where pastel villas blend seamlessly with the rugged Riviera hills.

On the northern coast of Corsica near Cap Corse lies Saint-Florent, Corsica's understated answer to Saint-Tropez. Its marina bustles with cafés and wine bars, while the 15th-century Genoese citadel watches over curving shores and vineyard-dotted hills. Enjoy a wine tasting at a local domaine or cruise to the white sands of Saleccia Beach, one of Corsica's most beautiful beaches.

Portoferraio is the historic heart of Elba Island. Bronze-hued fortresses built by the Medicis overlook turquoise coves, while cobbled streets wind toward charm-filled cafés and artisan shops. History buffs can visit Napoleon's former residence, where he lived while exiled in 1814, and beach lovers can enjoy soft sands lapped by translucent waters.

On Tuscany's Argentario peninsula, Porto Santo Stefano enchants with terraced pastel homes and a lively seafront promenade. Stroll along the marina, savour the day's catch paired with crisp local wine, and visit the 16th-century Spanish Fortress for sweeping views over the Tyrrhenian Sea and the nearby islands of Giglio and Giannutri.

Your cruise concludes in Civitavecchia today. This historic seaport is the main gateway for the ancient capital of Italy, Rome – aptly known as the ‘Eternal City'. 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.

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 abo