Unhurried Islands of the Mediterranean: Corsica, Sardinia & Sicily

Italy's vibrant capital lives in the present, but no other city on earth evokes its past so powerfully. For over 2,500 years, emperors, popes, artists, and common citizens have left their mark here. Archaeological remains from ancient Rome, art-stuffed churches, and the treasures of Vatican City vie for your attention, but Rome is also a wonderful place to practice the Italian-perfected il dolce far niente, the sweet art of idleness. Your most memorable experiences may include sitting at a caffè in the Campo de' Fiori or strolling in a beguiling piazza.

Your unforgettable cruise begins in Italy and Civitavecchia, a historic seaport and gateway to Rome, the ancient capital of Italy, aptly known as the ‘Eternal City.’  From here, you’ll be transferred to your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht and begin your voyage discovering the charms of the West Mediterranean.

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

Located in the South of Corsica, Bonifacio is one of the island’s most beautiful destinations. From its breathtaking views and sandy white islands to its historic citadel, the city is a must visit for anyone travelling to the island.

Perched atop a narrow limestone peninsula on the stunning French Island of Corsica, Bonifacio reveals breathtaking views of the sparkling 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.

Welcome to Italy and the gorgeous Island of Sardinia. Your first port of call is Porto Cervo, a popular hotspot on the island’s northern coast favoured by discerning travellers drawn to its upscale hotels, luxury boutiques, exceptional gourmet restaurants and vibrant nightlife. Porto Cervo's marina is crammed with opulent yachts and is the illustrious host of prestigious sailing events such as the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup. Despite its reputation for luxury, Porto Cervo however has not, lost its unmistakable Sardinian charm.

Arbatax is best known for its maritime heritage, and its port has been a hub of activity since ancient times due to its strategic coastal location along Sardinia’s eastern shores. One of the most iconic sights in Arbatax is the Rocce Rosse, or Red Rocks, a dramatic outcrop of red porphyry cliffs plunging into the sparkling blue sea.

Known in Sardinia as Casteddu, the island's capital has steep streets and impressive Italianate architecture, from modern to medieval. This city of nearly 160,000 people is characterized by a busy commercial center and waterfront with broad avenues and arched arcades, as well as by the typically narrow streets of the old hilltop citadel (called, simply, “Castello”). The Museo Archeologico makes a good starting point to a visit. The imposing Bastione di Saint Remy and Mercato di San Benedetto (one of the best fish markets in Italy) are both musts.

At the southern tip of the island, nestled between the rolling hills and the sea, today, you’ll discover the capital of Sardinia, Cagliari.  The 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, which include traditional dishes like malloreddus (Sardinian gnocchi) and porceddu (roast suckling pig).

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.

Cruise south across the Mediterranean Sea for the exotic North African coast and Tunisia, arriving in its colourful capital, Tunis. With a rich cultural heritage that blends an intriguing tapestry of Arab, Berber, French, and Italian influences, this historic city is characterised by its distinctive architecture, bustling markets and vibrant atmosphere.

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.

Returning to Italy, today, you’ll arrive at the magnificent Island of Sicily and a visit to 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 like freshly-caught seafood and the world-famous Sicilian pastry, cannoli.

Once the intellectual capital of southern Europe, Palermo has always been at the crossroads of civilization. Favorably situated on a crescent-shaped bay at the foot of Monte Pellegrino, it has attracted almost every culture touching the Mediterranean world. To Palermo's credit, it has absorbed these diverse cultures into a unique personality that is at once Arab and Christian, Byzantine and Roman, Norman and Italian. The city's heritage encompasses all of Sicily's varied ages, but its distinctive aspect is its Arab-Norman identity, an improbable marriage that, mixed in with Byzantine and Jewish elements, created some resplendent works of art. No less noteworthy than the architecture is Palermo's chaotic vitality, on display at some of Italy's most vibrant outdoor markets, public squares, street bazaars, and food vendors, and above all in its grand climax of Italy's most spectacular passeggiata (the leisurely social stroll along the principal thoroughfare).

Welcome to Palermo, the enthralling capital of Sicily, nestled on the island’s rugged northern shores. Here, you’re sure to be enchanted with the city’s storied Sicilian history, stunning architectural wonders and vibrant street markets. Palermo reveals a fascinating mix of cultures, including Italian, Arabic, and Norman influences, which is evident in its diverse architectural styles and cuisine. The historic centre is today a UNESCO World Heritage Site, brimming with beautiful churches, palaces and bustling squares. You can also discover Palermo’s renowned street food scene, with markets like Mercato Ballarò and Mercato Vucciria serving up a wide array of delicious local specialties that include arancini, panelle, and sfincione.

Situated between Italy and Tunisia within the Strait of Sicily, you'll visit the picturesque Italian island of Pantelleria – part of the Sicilian Province of Trapani. As well as centuries of history, Pantelleria is distinctive for its stunning volcanic landscapes and unique geological features, revealing rugged coastlines, dramatic cliffs, and beautiful coves.

Located on the southern shores of Sicily, Porto Empedocle presents a charming port town, named in honour of the ancient Greek philosopher, Empedocles, who, as local legend attests, was born in the area. Here, within this picturesque town, enjoy exploring a lively waterfront area filled with fishing boats and yachts and sampling the renowned fresh local seafood and traditional Sicilian cuisine. Porto Empedocle  also makes a convenient base for exploring the surrounding area, including the striking Scala dei Turchi cliffs and historic sites of Agrigento.

Malta's capital, the minicity of Valletta, has ornate palaces and museums protected by massive fortifications of honey-color limestone. Houses along the narrow streets have overhanging wooden balconies for people-watching from indoors. Generations ago they gave housebound women a window on the world of the street. The main entrance to town is through the City Gate (where all bus routes end), which leads onto Triq Repubblika (Republic Street), the spine of the grid-pattern city and the main shopping street. Triq Mercante (Merchant Street) parallels Repubblika to the east and is also good for strolling. From these two streets, cross streets descend toward the water; some are stepped. Valletta's compactness makes it ideal to explore on foot. City Gate and the upper part of Valletta are experiencing vast redevelopment that includes a new Parliament Building and open-air performance venue. The complex, completed mid-2013, has numerous pedestrian detours in place along with building noise and dust. Before setting out along Republic Street, stop at the tourist information office on Merchant Street for maps and brochures.

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, comes 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.

Malta's capital, the minicity of Valletta, has ornate palaces and museums protected by massive fortifications of honey-color limestone. Houses along the narrow streets have overhanging wooden balconies for people-watching from indoors. Generations ago they gave housebound women a window on the world of the street. The main entrance to town is through the City Gate (where all bus routes end), which leads onto Triq Repubblika (Republic Street), the spine of the grid-pattern city and the main shopping street. Triq Mercante (Merchant Street) parallels Repubblika to the east and is also good for strolling. From these two streets, cross streets descend toward the water; some are stepped. Valletta's compactness makes it ideal to explore on foot. City Gate and the upper part of Valletta are experiencing vast redevelopment that includes a new Parliament Building and open-air performance venue. The complex, completed mid-2013, has numerous pedestrian detours in place along with building noise and dust. Before setting out along Republic Street, stop at the tourist information office on Merchant Street for maps and brochures.

Your luxurious yacht cruise and grand Mediterranean journey concludes in Malta and its enchanting capital, Valletta. From here, 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 Rome after 11:00 AM.

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 states above.