Mediterranean Moments: Spain to Italy

As you sail into Malaga you will notice what an idyllic setting the city enjoys on the famous Costa del Sol. To the east of this provincial capital, the coast along the region of La Axarqua is scattered with villages, farmland and sleepy fishing hamlets - the epitome of traditional rural Spain. To the west stretches a continuous city where the razzmatazz and bustle creates a colourful contrast that is easily recognisable as the Costa del Sol. Surrounding the region, the Penibéetica Mountains provide an attractive backdrop overlooking the lower terraced slopes which yield olives and almonds. This spectacular mountain chain shelters the province from cold northerly winds, giving it a reputation as a therapeutic and exotic place in which to escape from cold northern climes. Malaga is also the gateway to many of Andalusia's enchanting historic villages, towns and cities.

Your luxury cruise begins in Málaga on Spain’s famous Costa del Sol. Here you’ll be transferred to your luxury Emerald yacht to begin your journey through the Western Mediterranean.

Please book your flight to arrive into Malaga prior to 01:00 PM.

The Andalusian city of Almería has an enticing mix of relaxation and rich culture. The vast beaches are popular for swimming and sunbathing, and the palm-lined esplanade along the harbour is a lovely spot for a stroll. home to one of the only true desert landscapes in mainland Europe, Almería is renowned for its lively tapas culture – start with tasty morsels and drinks at a local bar and watch the dancefloors come alive as the night unfolds. 

On the Algerian coast, Oran blends North African energy with echoes of Andalusian Spain. The city’s historic port quarter and whitewashed buildings, adorned with bright shutters and tiled façades, reflect centuries of Mediterranean trade and cultural exchange. Stroll along the waterfront promenade, explore the old town, and discover a rich tapestry of music, cuisine, and art that reflects Oran’s role as a vibrant crossroads of cultures. 

A Mediterranean city and naval station located in the Region of Murcia, southeastern Spain, Cartagena’s sheltered bay has attracted sailors for centuries. The Carthaginians founded the city in 223BC and named it Cartago Nova; it later became a prosperous Roman colony, and a Byzantine trading centre. The city has been the main Spanish Mediterranean naval base since the reign of King Philip II, and is still surrounded by walls built during this period. Cartagena’s importance grew with the arrival of the Spanish Bourbons in the 18th century, when the Navidad Fortress was constructed to protect the harbour. In recent years, traces of the city’s fascinating past have been brought to light: a well-preserved Roman Theatre was discovered in 1988, and this has now been restored and opened to the public. During your free time, you may like to take a mini-cruise around Cartagena's historic harbour: these operate several times a day, take approximately 40 minutes and do not need to be booked in advance. Full details will be available at the port.

Cartagena, on the Mediterranean's Costa Cálida, was one of the most important naval ports in Spain until the 18th century. The town on the southeastern corner of the Iberian Peninsula has been inhabited by several cultures that have left their mark on its heritage over more than 2,200 years. From its Roman Theatre to the Torre Ciega, a monument to the ancient Roman necropolis, there is no shortage of sights to amaze you here.

Hedonistic and historic, Eivissa (Ibiza, in Castilian) is a city jam-packed with cafés, nightspots, and trendy shops; looming over it are the massive stone walls of Dalt Vila —the medieval city declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1999—and its Gothic cathedral. Squeezed between the north walls of the old city and the harbor is Sa Penya, a long labyrinth of stone-paved streets that offer some of the city's best offbeat shopping, snacking, and exploring. The tourist information office on Vara de Rey has a useful map of walks through the old city.

An enchanting island in the Balearics, Ibiza is known for its vibrant nightlife as well as its UNESCO-listed heritage and natural beauty. Beyond the festive facade, you will encounter many hidden gems, such as the laid-back hippy atmosphere of its street markets, the mesmerising Dalt Vila and the natural beauty of the coastline. Its breathtaking beaches range from long stretches of powder-white sand to quiet rocky coves lapped by crystal clear water.

The capital of Menorca since 1721, Mahon has a impressive natural deep water harbour, which is one of the largest in the world. This, coupled with its strategic location, has made it a stronghold for many nations throughout history. Mahon has an abundance of historical buildings, the oldest being the Arch of Saint Roc which is all that remains of the wall that once encircled the whole town. The island was occupied by the British during the 18th century and Lord Nelson is thought to have stayed there. Indeed, San Antoni Mansion, located on the north side of the harbour, houses a collection of Nelson memorabilia. The legacy of colonial rule can be seen in the muted Georgian style of some of the buildings, but Mahon still boasts attractive examples of neo-Classical, Baroque and Romanesque architecture. With narrow streets to explore, pleasant shaded squares and welcoming pavement cafés, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Please be aware that most shops in town close for a siesta between 1330 and 1730.

The second largest city of the Balearic Islands, and the capital of Menorca, Mahon, is yours to explore today. As soon as you step ashore, you’ll feel things slow down. Menorca is quieter than its island neighbours, with relaxed cities, rural villages and its own laid-back charm. The island is known for its distinctive harbours, historic streets, and spectacular coastline, considered to be some of the most beautiful in the Mediterranean.

South of the Tunisian capital Tunis, Sousse is an ancient city filled with culture and beauty that has become a lively resort for travellers. Take a walk down one of the expansive sandy beaches, explore the catacombs and shop at a traditional souq. The city mixes tradition with contemporary style to create a wonderful destination for visitors.

Cruising south, today you’ll arrive on the northern coast of Africa once again, docking at Tunis, the capital of Tunisia. A fascinating crossroads of cultures for thousands of years, Tunis has at its heart the World Heritage-listed Medina, a maze of winding alleyways filled with bustling souks, historic mosques and ornate palaces. Just beyond the city, the legendary ruins of Carthage stand as a testament to one of history’s greatest civilisations, offering a glimpse into the power and grandeur of the ancient Phoenician and Roman empires.

Trapani, the most important town on Sicily’s west coast, lies below the headland of Mount Erice and offers stunning views of the Egadi Islands on a clear day. Trapani’s Old District occupies a scimitarshaped promontory between the open sea on the north and the salt marshes to the south. The ancient industry of extracting salt from the marshes has recently been revived, and it is documented in the Museo delle Saline. In addition to the salt marshes,Trapani’s other interesting environs include the beautiful little hill town of Erice, the promontory of Capo San Vito stretching north beyond the splendid headland of Monte Cofano, the lovely island of Motya and the town of Marsala. Trips farther afield will take you to the magnificent site of Segesta or the Egadi Islands, reached by boat or hydrofoil from Trapani Port.

Blessed with one of the most enchanting coastlines in Italy, Trapani is a serene side of Sicily. It’s a heady mix of alluring landscapes, inviting beaches and historic intrigue, including the 18th-century Chiesa Anime Sante del Purgatorio, a church depicting the story of Christ’s Passion.

Sorrento may have become a jumping-off point for visitors to Pompeii, Capri, and Amalfi, but you can find countless reasons to love it for itself. The Sorrentine people are fair-minded and hardworking, bubbling with life and warmth. The tuff cliff on which the town rests is spread over the bay, absorbing sunlight, while orange and lemon trees waft their perfume in spring. Winding along a cliff above a small beach and two harbors, the town is split in two by a narrow ravine formed by a former mountain stream. To the east, dozens of hotels line busy Via Correale along the cliff—many have "grand" included in their names, and some indeed still are. To the west, however, is the historic sector, which still enchants. It's a relatively flat area, with winding, stone-paved lanes bordered by balconied buildings, some joined by medieval stone arches. The central piazza is named after the poet Torquato Tasso, born here in 1544. This part of town is a delightful place to walk through. Craftspeople are often at work in their stalls and shops and are happy to let you watch; in fact, that's the point. Music spots and bars cluster in the side streets near Piazza Tasso.

Sorrento is a much-loved resort town on the Amalfi Coast, perched dramatically atop cliffs that overlook the Bay of Naples and boasting 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. The town's historic centre is filled with narrow streets lined with shops selling locally made ceramics, limoncello and other traditional products. Explore the town's ancient Greek and Roman ruins, 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.

Rome, Italy, the Eternal City, is a stunning blend of ancient history and vibrant modern life. Iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, Vatican City, and the Pantheon showcase its glorious past. Cobblestone streets lead to charming piazzas, bustling markets, and world-renowned museums. Rome's culinary scene delights with traditional Italian cuisine and lively cafes. The city's rich culture, impressive architecture, and warm, welcoming atmosphere make it an unforgettable destination for travellers.

Your time on board your luxury Emerald yacht comes to an end in Civitavecchia, the gateway to Rome. After bidding farewell to the crew and your fellow guests, you will be transferred to the airport for your return flight home.

Please book your flight to depart out of Rome after 02:00 PM.

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.