Deal

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 stunning Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most famous destinations. This glorious stretch of coastline has been designated a World Heritage site and 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, colourful seaside towns home to grand Italian villas, and glitzy beach clubs hugging the craggy cliffs that rise from the sparkling sea. Dock overnight off the island of Capri and experience its quiet sophistication bathed in golden light and after-hours allure.

The allure of Capri is timeless. From the first century AD, Roman Emperors chose this spectacularly beautiful island as their private retreat – the ruins of their grand villas still dot the shore. Take a leisurely stroll along the narrow, winding streets and dine al fresco under twinkling fairy lights, sampling the island’s traditional specialties that have become world-famous, like caprese salad and limoncello, a sweet lemon liqueur. Admire the towering cliffs and hidden sea caves, including the Blue Grotto, which is lit by an otherworldly blue glow. Your yacht will return to the mainland this evening to spend the night docked in Sorrento.

Awake to the sun sparkling over the pastel buildings of Sorrento. This much-loved resort town 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.

Set halfway between Naples and Rome, Gaeta is on a headland that juts out into the sea, making for sweeping views up and down the coast. It remains one of the hidden gems of this region and a popular weekend getaway for Italians. As well as its beautiful beach and abundant fresh fish, Gaeta is best known for Montagna Spaccata (Split Mountain), a natural sea grotto and 11th-century sanctuary. According to tradition, the mountain split apart at the moment of Christ’s crucifixion, leaving three dramatic fissures plunging into the sea.

Part of Sardinia’s Costa Smeralda, Porto Cervo is a luxurious resort town that blends Italian influences with contemporary Mediterranean design. 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.

Perched atop a narrow limestone peninsula on the French island of Corsica, Bonifacio offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. Take a step back in time, exploring Bonifacio’s atmospheric Old Town, a fortified medieval citadel filled with quaint, narrow streets and historic structures. Don’t miss 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.