Italy’s Islands, Corsica to Monaco

Your first port of call is Gaeta, a popular destination set on a headland that juts out towards the Gulf of Gaeta, within the Lazio region of southern Italy. Apart from the beautiful beach, the key attraction in this historical seaside town is Montagna Spaccata (Split Mountain), a natural sea grotto and 11th century sanctuary. According to local legend, the miraculous rock split was created when God sent a lightning bolt that formed three giant cracks in the mountain, which dramatically plunges into the sea.

Located in the lovely Campania region of southern Italy, Salerno boasts a rich history that dates back to ancient times, influenced by a variety of civilisations that covers the Greek, Roman and Norman eras. You’ll find this  a captivating destination that combines historical richness, natural beauty and vibrant culture, making it an appealing spot for visitors and locals alike.

Nestled on Sicily’s eastern shores, the picturesque town of Giardini Naxos reveals stunning views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna, the fabled active volcano. This seaside town is known for its beautiful sandy beaches, clear aquamarine waters and a vibrant waterfront promenade lined with restaurants, shops, and cafés popular with locals and visitors alike. Giardini Naxos also harbours a rich tapestry of history, with archaeological sites dating back to ancient Greek and Roman times and is near to the esteemed Taormina Archaeological Park.

The tiny capital of the island-nation of Malta and a UNESCO World Heritage Centre, Valletta presents a living testament to the Baroque period, with well-preserved buildings, ornate churches, and palaces and magnificent fortifications. This stunning walled city, established in the 1500s by the Knights of St. John, a legendary Roman Catholic order, is strategically positioned on a hilly peninsula, revealing breathtaking views of the azure Mediterranean Sea. As well as its storied history and architectural wonders, enchanting Valletta is the host of lively markets and colourful festivals. 

Today, you’ll return to Italy, with a port of call on the magnificent Island of Sicily and Trapani, a charming port city that boasts stunning Mediterranean views and a rich Sicilian cultural heritage. Take a stroll through the picturesque Old Town, where you’ll discover quaint narrow streets  lined with historic buildings, traditional  markets, and tantalising eateries that tempt with local delicacies such as freshly-caught seafood and the world-famous Sicilian pastry, cannoli.

At the southern tip of the Italian island of Sardinia, nestled between the rolling hills and the sea, you’ll discover the capital, Cagliari.  This Sardinian city is home to one of the longest beaches in Italy, Poetta Beach, and Molentargius-Saline Regional Park, well-known for its bright pink flamingo colonies. Be sure to sample the local culinary specialities, including traditional dishes like malloreddus (Sardinian gnocchi) and porceddu (roast suckling pig).

On the western shores of Northern Sardinia, delightful Alghero is noteworthy for its pretty coves and small bays, enticing with white sandy beaches merging with the crystalline aquamarine sea. 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.

Cruising northwards, you’ll arrive on the northern shores of Corsica and Bastia, a bustling port, where ferries connect this charming French island to Italy and mainland France. Bastia is also regarded as a foodie destination, boasting numerous restaurants and markets serving authentic Corsican cuisine. Fresh seafood is a menu mainstay here, with delicious local specialties such as Aziminu, a variety of traditional fish bouillabaisse made with rockfish.

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.

Your unforgettable yacht cruise concludes in the South of France and coastal city of Nice, another famous destination along the chic French Riviera. 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 holiday.Please book your flight to depart out of Nice after 01:00 PM.This 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.