Discover Coastal Classics: 15 days Dubrovnik to Athens (Piraeus)

Your Mediterranean yacht cruise begins in the historic city of Dubrovnik. Often referred to as the Pearl of the Adriatic, this World Heritage-listed city is celebrated for its breathtaking architecture – red terracotta rooftops and pale stone walls creating a striking contrast against the turquoise waters below. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your Emerald luxury yacht to embark on a voyage through intriguing cities and extraordinary coastlines. 

Please book your flight to arrive into Dubrovnik prior to 06:00 PM.

Enveloped by medieval walls, the fortified city of Kotor is a place of ancient stories and modern culture. Nestled between imposing mountains and the Adriatic Sea, this World Heritage-listed setting is brimming with Venetian palaces, cobblestone lanes and café-hemmed squares. Climb the 1,350 steps up to St John’s Fortress, where you’ll have spectacular views over the Bay of Kotor. 

Sarandë is a popular coastal town on a crescent-shaped bay in Albania. The once-sleepy fishing village has a bustling seaside promenade, pebbled beaches and ancient ruins, including the ruins of an ancient synagogue thought to date from the fifth or sixth century, adorned with intricate mosaics and historical artefacts. From Sarandë, you’ll journey across the strait to Corfu, a large island with sandy coves and hills studded with olive, cypress and citrus trees. 

One of Greece’s most beloved and beautiful islands, Corfu is in the Ionian Sea and has a rich history and magnificent architecture displaying Renaissance and Baroque influences. Its UNESCO-listed Old Town has roots dating back to the 8th century BC and features architecture shaped by later Venetian and European influences. It is a labyrinthine maze of alleyways, home to the largest square in Greece, the impressive Spianada, a leafy green space with gardens and historical monuments. The island is also dotted with authentic Greek villages and beaches lapped by aquamarine waters. 

Parga, on mainland Greece, has a carefree holiday atmosphere. Enjoy the sunshine on one of the many beaches, explore traditional Greek villages, and marvel at the 11th-century Castle of Parga, which offers an incredible bird’s-eye view of the resort town and coastline. 

Known as the ’Caribbean of Greece’, Lefkada is connected to the mainland by a narrow bridge, making it one of the few Greek islands accessible directly by road. One of the most fascinating places in Lefkada is the Castle of Agia Mavra, dating to the 14th century and built to protect the island from invasions. The island’s modern marina has a thriving drinking and dining scene, while the town centre has many churches and museums. 

Sail to the small port of Itea, then embark on a journey to the archaeological site of Delphi, regarded by the Ancient Greeks as the centre of the world. After your visit, it’s time to pass through the 19th-century Corinth Canal. A feat of engineering, this narrow waterway was cut through solid rock and is more than six kilometres long, with walls that rise to about 79 metres (260 feet) at their highest point. It crosses the isthmus of Corinth in Greece, linking the Gulf of Corinth with the Saronic Gulf and shortening the sea route between the Ionian and Aegean Seas.

After breakfast, enjoy time at leisure to explore Athens, the enthralling capital of Greece. Named after the Goddess of wisdom and warfare, Athens was once the epicentre of ancient Greece. Today, you’ll not only be captivated by the city’s historical legacies, such as the Acropolis, but also by the alluring Greek modern-day dynamism and cosmopolitan charm. In the afternoon, you’ll be welcomed back on board your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht, ready to embark on the second half of your journey, where you’ll get to explore the breathtaking Adriatic.

A small rocky island at the heart of the stunning Cyclades archipelago, Delos is one of the most important mythological and archaeological sites in Greece and a World Heritage-listed Site believed to be the birthplace of the Greek God Apollo and his twin sister, Artemis. Wander among remarkably preserved ruins, grand mosaics and ancient temples that paint a vivid picture of classical civilisation. 

Later, sail to glamorous Mykonos, where Cycladic charm meets cosmopolitan flair. Lose yourself in the maze of narrow lanes lined with whitewashed houses and chapels. Discover chic boutiques, waterfront tavernas and the island’s iconic windmills overlooking the Aegean. As evening falls, Mykonos reveals its vibrant energy, offering the ideal blend of tradition and modern sophistication. 

Known for its stunning turquoise waters, pebbly and sand beaches, and vibrant nightlife, Bodrum, set along Turkey’s southwest shores, attracts both local and international visitors year-round. 

This alluring town is also steeped in history and home to several historical sites, including the impressive Bodrum Castle, built by the Knights of St. John in the 15th century. The castle now houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, displaying artifacts from shipwrecks discovered in the Aegean Sea. 

The lovely Greek island of Rhodes harbours a rich history, evident in fascinating landmarks. These include the ancient Acropolis of Lindos and Palace of the Grand Master, one of the few examples of Gothic architecture in Greece, within the Medieval City of Rhodes, a designated World Heritage Site. Rhodes is also popular for its stunning natural scenery, extending to lovely sandy beaches lapped bycrystal-clear waters and lush green hills.   

One of the world’s most photogenic islands, Santorini enchants with its whitewashed buildings cascading down dramatic cliffs overlooking the Aegean. Arriving by sea at Santorini offers a breathtaking first impression. Visit the main town of Fira for breathtaking caldera views or charming Oia, where blue-domed churches and cascading bougainvillea create postcard-worthy scenes in narrow lanes. Relax on distinctive volcanic-sand beaches or sample crisp local wines cultivated in mineral-rich soil. As you sail away, the sun sinks into the Aegean and Santorini’s legendary sunset paints the sky in hues of gold and crimson – a moment to cherish forever. 

Welcome to Chania, a charming coastal town located on the northwest coast of the Greek island of Crete. Chania is known for its picturesque Venetian harbour, narrow winding streets and vibrant atmosphere. The town boasts a rich history that is evident in itseclectic blend of architectural styles, with Venetian, Ottoman and Greek influences. Here, spend your day relaxing on one of the beautiful beaches, exploring historical sites, or hiking through lush landscapes.  

Life slows down on Hydra. Renowned for its stunning natural beauty and historic charm, there are no cars or motor vehicles allowed on the island, making it a peaceful and low-key getaway from the usual hustle and bustle of urban life. It’s ideal for walking, hiking or getting around by donkey, admiring the stone mansions, pebbly beaches and clear turquoise waters. The island’s main centre, also named Hydra, presents a charming and bustling port town, brimming with narrow cobblestone streets and traditional, whitewashed buildings adorned with bougainvillea-covered balconies.  

Your luxurious yacht cruise concludes as you return to the ancient city of Athens. After bidding farewell to your crew and fellow guestsfrom the yacht, 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 Athens after 01:00 PM.

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.