The glamour of the rivieras
Your cruise begins in Italy at Civitavecchia, the historic seaport and main gateway for the ancient capital of Rome.. Known as the ‘Eternal City,’ Rome is littered with iconic landmarks that bear testament to its former status as the epicentre of the mighty Roman Empire. From here, you’ll be transferred to your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht and begin your wondrous voyage exploring the glamorous French and Italian rivieras.
Please book your flight to arrive into Rome prior to 01:00 PM.
Docked: 18:00
Your first port of call is Calvi, on the northwest shore of the French Island of Corsica. According to local legend, Calvi was the birthplace of the 15th century Italian explorer, Christopher Columbus. While historians may debate this, the natural beauty and rich culture of Calvi is undisputed. Calvi's gorgeous beach presents a crescent-shaped bay of powdery white sand fringed by maritime pines, while the town has evolved to become Corsica’s ‘culture capital,’ hosting several music festivals over the idyllic summer months.
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Discover Old Corsica and its villages (extra expense)
Discover the rugged landscapes and historic villages of Corsica's Balagne region, where winding mountain roads reveal spectacular scenery and timeless Corsican charm. Begin with a visit to Calenzana, a peaceful village nestled at the foot of the mountains and the traditional starting point of the famous GR20 hiking trail. Stroll through its quiet streets lined with traditional stone houses before continuing to Zilia, renowned for its natural mineral spring, and the panoramic Col de Salvi, offering magnificent views across the coastline and fertile valleys. Continue to the hilltop village of Sant'Antonino, founded in the 9th century and recognised as one of “The Most Beautiful Villages of France.” Wander its maze of narrow cobbled lanes and vaulted passageways while enjoying breathtaking panoramic views stretching across the Balagne countryside, the Mediterranean Sea, and the surrounding mountains. Your return journey follows a scenic route through the picturesque villages of Cateri, Lavatoggio, and Lumio, each reflecting the authentic character and natural beauty of inland Corsica.
Activity Level: Active, Duration: 3 hours 45 minutes
Anchored: 10:00–21:00
Along the western coast of Italy’s beautiful Tuscany region, the bustling city of Livorno boasts a modern seaport, but is best known for its scenic 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 is a must-try for anyone who visits here.
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The Best of Florence & Pisa (extra expense)
Travel through the rolling Tuscan countryside en route to Florence, cradle of the Renaissance and one of Italy’s most celebrated cultural capitals. On arrival, enjoy a guided walking tour through the city’s most iconic landmarks. In Piazza del Duomo, admire the striking façade of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. Continue to Piazza della Signoria, an open-air gallery of sculptures and political history, before reaching the historic Ponte Vecchio, lined with traditional goldsmith shops. The walk also includes Piazza Santa Croce, home to its magnificent basilica and vibrant atmosphere. Free time allows for lunch at a local trattoria, a relaxed coffee break, or browsing Florence’s elegant boutiques and artisan shops. The journey then continues to Pisa. From the coach parking area, a pleasant walk leads to the renowned Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles), where you can admire the impressive Cathedral, Baptistery, and the world-famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. Time is provided for photographs and independent exploration before the return drive concludes the day.
Activity Level: Active, Duration: 9 hours
Docked: 08:00–23:00
Further along the Tuscan coast, you’ll arrive in Marina di Carrara. This lovely seaside town famous for the pale and premium Italian marble that is mined and quarried from the nearby mountains. The highly-prized Carrara marble 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 purest marble contrast beautifully with Marina di Carrara’s pretty coastal scenery.
EmeraldPLUS
Soprano Serenade (performance on board)
Immerse yourself in the rich and timeless world of Italian music with an unforgettable performance by the talented opera singer Luisa Kurtz, accompanied by the acclaimed pianist Carlos Morejano. Together, they will take you on a captivating journey through Italy's extraordinary musical heritage, featuring iconic opera arias, traditional art songs, and beloved classics. Feel the passion and emotion as Luisa’s powerful and expressive voice fills the room, perfectly complemented by Carlos’ intricate and masterful piano playing (performed on an electronic keyboard). This magical evening offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the beauty, artistry, and elegance of Italian music, leaving you inspired and truly enchanted.
Activity Level: Easy, Duration: 1 hour
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Carrara Marble Quarries Adventure (extra expense)
Travel into the dramatic Apuan Alps to explore the world-renowned Carrara Marble Quarries, where some of the world's finest marble has been extracted since Roman times. Enjoy a scenic drive along the Ligurian and Tuscan coastline before ascending into the spectacular quarry district. Discover how the prized Carrara marble, used in ancient Rome and later by renowned artists including Michelangelo, Nicola Pisano, and Giovanni Pisano, is quarried and processed. Gain a fascinating insight into the daily lives and traditions of the Carrarini, the skilled marble workers whose craftsmanship has shaped the region for centuries. Following your quarry visit, enjoy a tasting of local specialities, including the famous Lardo di Colonnata IGP, before departing for the return journey.
Activity Level: Easy, Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
Docked: 08:00 – 05:00 (overnight)
Today, you’ll set sail early in the morning, bound for the Italian Ligurian coast and Porto Venere. This ancient town dates back to the first century BC and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. It harbours 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 swam 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.
Included Excursion
Walking tour of Portovenere
Immerse yourself in the rich history and authentic atmosphere of Portovenere, a picturesque UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled along the Gulf of La Spezia. Meet your local guide and begin a leisurely walk through the ancient Roman Gate, entering the heart of this charming medieval village. Stroll along the lively main street lined with colourful houses, boutiques, and cafés, while admiring the distinctive Genoese-Gothic architecture crafted from black and white marble. Along the way, enjoy views of the imposing Doria Castle, which has watched over Portovenere for centuries. Complete your experience at a favourite local café, where you will savour a tasting of traditional Italian snacks while enjoying the warm hospitality and relaxed atmosphere that make Portovenere so special.
Activity Level: Active, Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
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Cinque Terre by Private Boat (extra expense)
Discover the spectacular beauty of the Cinque Terre National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as you explore two of its most iconic villages by boat. Begin in Portovenere, a picturesque UNESCO World Heritage Site, before boarding a boat for a scenic cruise along the dramatic Cinque Terre coastline, where colourful villages cling to rugged cliffs above the Ligurian Sea. Your first stop is Monterosso al Mare, the largest of the five villages, surrounded by terraced vineyards, olive groves, and lemon orchards. Enjoy a guided walk through the historic centre before sampling traditional pesto bruschetta accompanied by a glass of local wine. Continue to the charming fishing village of Vernazza, celebrated for its picturesque harbour, pastel-coloured houses, and narrow medieval lanes. Enjoy free time to explore at your own pace before departing for the return journey.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes
Anchored: 08:00–23:00
Welcome to Santa Margherita Ligure, a charming Italian 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. Nestled along the Italian Riviera, the 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.
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Culinary experience in Rapallo (extra expense)
Discover the flavours of Liguria with a visit to the enchanting Gulf of Paradise and the elegant seaside town of Rapallo, often called the “Pearl of the Tigullio Gulf.” Framed by a picturesque bay dotted with anchored boats, Rapallo blends Riviera charm with a rich culinary heritage shaped by both mountains and sea. Here, meet your host Guido, a passionate connoisseur and master chef, at the distinctive Musical Kiosk, one of the town’s most recognisable landmarks. Accompanied by Guido, explore Rapallo’s lively food market, discovering the fresh produce, fragrant herbs, and local ingredients that define Ligurian cuisine. The experience continues at Guido’s traditional bottega, where you take part in preparing authentic pesto alla Genovese, blending aromatic basil, garlic, pine nuts, cheese, and Ligurian extra-virgin olive oil. Also on the menu is pandolce, a traditional cake filled with raisins and nuts, enjoyed with a glass of sweet Moscato from nearby Portofino. Following the tasting, enjoy free time to explore Rapallo's attractive waterfront and historic centre before departing for the return journey.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 4 hours 45 minutes
EmeraldACTIVE
Portofino & Brown Castle Walk
Experience the timeless elegance of Portofino, one of Italy's most exclusive seaside villages, renowned for its colourful harbour, historic landmarks, and spectacular coastal scenery. Follow your guide through the picturesque harbour lined with pastel-coloured houses before ascending to Castello Brown, a historic fortress surrounded by beautiful Mediterranean gardens. Explore its fascinating museum and enjoy panoramic views across Portofino Bay from one of the Riviera's most celebrated viewpoints. Next visit the Church of St. George, home to relics of the legendary dragon-slaying saint. Conclude your guided walk at the famous Piazzetta, where free time allows you to browse elegant boutiques, relax at a waterfront café (own expense), or simply soak up the atmosphere before departing for the return journey.
Activity Level: Active, Duration: 2 hours
Anchored: 07:30 –12:30 | 14:00 – 21:00
Officially known as the Principality of Monaco, this e 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 is also the host of numerous cultural events throughout the year, celebrating everything from music to the visual arts, while Monte Carlo is renowned for its annual Monaco Grand Prix, a prestigious Formula One motor racing event.
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Highlights of Monaco & Monte Carlo by City Bus (extra expense, must be booked on board)
Experience the glamour and history of the Principality of Monaco with convenient transfers between its most iconic landmarks, minimising the amount of walking normally required. Travel by chartered city bus through the Principality to Monaco-Ville, the historic Old Town perched on the famous Rock. Visit Prince's Palace Square, admire the Cathedral of Monaco, where Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace were married, and enjoy free time to explore the charming streets and shops. Continue to elegant Monte-Carlo, where the famous Casino Square is framed by the legendary Monte-Carlo Casino, the Hôtel de Paris, and the Café de Paris. Admire these world-renowned landmarks and soak up the atmosphere of one of Europe's most prestigious destinations before departing for the return journey.
Activity Level: Easy to Moderate, Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
Anchored: 08:00–21:00
Your unforgettable yacht cruise concludes this morning in the French Riviera, at the alluring port city of Nice. 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.
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Nice Walking Tour (extra expense, must be booked on board)
Discover the captivating charm of Nice on a scenic walking excursion through its most iconic districts. The journey begins along Avenue Jean Médecin, a bustling boulevard known for its refined boutiques and dynamic city atmosphere. Continue to the vibrant Place Masséna, where striking red façades, elegant fountains, and checkered pavements set a lively scene. Stroll through the peaceful Coulée Verte, a green ribbon of parkland in the city center offering shade, serenity, and photo-worthy views. Make your way to the renowned Promenade des Anglais, where sweeping vistas of the Mediterranean Sea unfold beneath rows of graceful palm trees. From there, head toward Place du Palais de Justice, where timeless architecture frames the heart of the Old Town. Wander into the lively Cours Saleya, the city’s open-air market filled with fragrant flowers, spices, and local produce—a feast for the senses. Finally, explore Old Nice, a labyrinth of narrow lanes, colorful squares, and historic buildings that reflect the soul of the Riviera. Free time is provided to wander through the Old Town, browse the market and local shops, or simply relax and soak up the vibrant atmosphere before rejoining your guide.
Activity Level: Active, Duration: 4 hours
Note: This excursion is available for participants continuing on to the next cruise, as well as those disembarking with flights departing after 4:00 pm. Disembarking guests will transfer to the airport, while in-transit guests will return to the ship.
Please book your flight to depart out of Nice after 01:00 PM.
Docked: 06:00
The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Emerald Cruises cannot guarantee the cruise will operated unaltered from the itinerary states above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.
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Discover the world with Emerald Cruises. Whether you’re travelling to unspoilt islands or bustling metropolises, our fleet of river-cruising Star-Ships and ocean-going luxury yachts guarantee an unparalleled voyage. Enjoy modern exploration, pairing authentic adventures with inimitable luxury. Founded in 2013, and first sailing as Emerald Waterways in 2014, Emerald Cruises is an award-winning travel operator specialising in deluxe river cruises and luxury yacht cruises. Just one year later, in 2014, the first Star-Ship, Emerald Sky, set sail. Our extensive fleet of Star-Ships are custom-built to sail Europe’s iconic Rhine, Main, Moselle, Danube, Rhȏne, Saône and Douro rivers, as well as the majestic Mekong River in Southeast Asia, with each ship featuring a range of stylish innovations. Whether you’re travelling by river or sea, your luxury vessel will dock in the heart of amazing destinations. In 2024, we celebrate 10 years of Emerald Cruises by introducing the next generation of superyachts: Emerald Kaia, launching in early 2026.