Discover Mediterranean Gems from Athens to Rome: 17 days Athens (Piraeus) to Civitavecchia (Rome)

Your cruise begins in the bustling Greek capital, Athens. The birthplace of democracy and Western civilisation, it’s home to some of the ancient world’s most famous landmarks. Here, 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 Athens prior to 06:00 PM.

Today you’ll cruise through the 19th-century Corinth Canal. A feat of engineering, this narrow waterway was cut from solid rock and is more than six kilometres long with walls rising 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. Cruise 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. This well-preserved World Heritage site is nestled within the mountainside and was a sacred space where pilgrims could hear prophecies believed to come directly from the Gods.

Known as the ‘Caribbean of Greece’ for its lush landscape and crystal-clear waters, 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, which dates to the 14th century and was 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. 

Located on the north-west coast of mainland Greece, Parga is built like an amphitheatre around a tranquil bay, its buildings vibrant in pastel colours and its waterfront home to a host of tavernas and bars. The 11th-century Parga Castle was built by the Venetians on a hilltop, boasting views across the resort town and the Ionian Sea. The coastline has a string of postcard-worthy beaches, and the Ionian islands are a short boat excursion away.

One of Greece’s most beloved and beautiful islands, Corfu lies in the Ionian Sea and has a rich history and magnificent architecture displaying Renaissance and Baroque influences. Its World Heritage-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 impressive Spianada – the largest square in Greece – a leafy space with gardens and historical monuments. The island is home to authentic Greek villages, as well as beaches lapped by aquamarine waters. Your luxury yacht will spend the evening in Corfu, allowing you to wander the atmospheric Old Town after dark. 

Your yacht will leave Corfu early this morning and cruise towards Sarandë, a coastal town perched on a crescent-shaped bay in southern Albania. The once sleepy fishing village comprises 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. 

Encircled by medieval walls, the fortified city of Kotor is an enthralling place of ancient history and modern culture. Nestled between imposing mountains and the Adriatic Sea, this World Heritage-listed setting is a blend of Venetian palaces, a 12th-century cathedral, 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. 

Coined the Pearl of the Adriatic, this UNESCO World Heritage-listed city is renowned for its breathtaking architecture: its red terracotta tiled roofs and whiteish walls striking against the turquoise waters that laps below. Stroll through the iconic Old Town, where cobbled streets lead you past magnificent baroque buildings, enjoy a drink on the Stradun, the main thoroughfare through the city, and take a walk along the ancient city walls for panoramic views over the rooftops and Adriatic Sea. And be awed by the impressive Rector's Palace, a 15th-century Gothic Renaissance palace that was once the administrative centre of Dubrovnik.

Split is a stunning city laden with culture, history, and striking architecture. Take a stroll along the Riva, a palm-lined promenade that is the beating heart of the city, past beautiful terraces and bustling eateries with harbour views. Built from the 4th century AD and added to over millennia, the ruins of the Diocletian's Palace dominate the city centre. This incredible UNESCO World Heritage Site comprised an imperial residence, military fortress, fortified town, with gates and walls; its remnants housing myriad bars and cafés today.

The heart of Hvar is the Old Town; while this has developed as a modern-day hotspot, it reveals multiple layers of history and architectural wonders. The Old Town of Hvar presents a photogenic jumble of whitewashed buildings topped with terracotta roofs, and beyond, scenic rolling hills peppered with lavender fields, olive groves, and grapevines.

Tracing its origins back to 545 AD when it was founded by the Greeks, Monopoli is a melting pot of Byzantine, Venetian, and Turkish influence. Located in Puglia, on Italy’s south-eastern coast, Monopoli’s charming harbour, which is busy with fishermen, is surrounded by medieval stone walls and a 16th century fortress. Take a walk on lungomare, the seafront promenade that wraps around the town, take a dip at Cala Porta Vecchia, the town’s main beach or visit The Church of the Purgatory, a Baroque chapel which houses mummified remains of past citizens.

One of Greece’s most beloved and beautiful islands in the Ionian Sea, Corfu harbours a rich history and magnificent architecture displaying Renaissance and Baroque influences. Its UNESCO-listed Old Town dates to the 8th century and is a labyrinthine of alleyways and home to the largest square in Greece, the impressive Spianada, a leafy green space with gardens and historical monuments. The island is home to authentic Greek villages, as well as beaches lapped by aquamarine waters.

Spend time on board your luxury yacht today as you cruise towards Sicily. Read a book in your suite or stateroom, swim in the infinity-style Aqua Pool, unwind in the infrared sauna, socialise with fellow guests in the Observation Lounge or ascend to the Sky Deck for a drink with panoramic views. Enjoy delectable meals onboard and attentive service from your on board crew as you enjoy some relaxation in between exciting days on shore.

Nestled on Sicily’s eastern shores, the picturesque town of Giardini Naxos reveals stunning views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna, the fabled active volcano. This seaside town is known for its beautiful sandy beaches, clear aquamarine waters and a vibrant waterfront promenade lined with restaurants, shops, and cafés popular with locals and visitors alike. Giardini Naxos also harbours a rich tapestry of history, with archaeological sites dating back to ancient Greek and Roman times and is near to the esteemed Taormina Archaeological Park.

Built into the cliffside of the Amalfi Coast, overlooking the azure waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, the town of Amalfi is known for its stunning views but also has a rich history. Its striking cathedral, the Duomo di Amalfi, dates to the 9th century and features intricate Byzantine mosaics. Explore the historic centre of Amalfi, with its narrow alleyways, colourful buildings, and quaint shops selling local ceramics. In the evening we’ll sail overnight in Sorrento.

Another steep, cliffside town of the Amalfi Coast with a hotchpotch of pastel-coloured buildings that teeter over the sea, Sorrento is a mix of breathtaking scenery, delicious cuisine, and charming historic villas. Sorrento boasts breathtaking views of the Bay of Naples and imposing Mount Vesuvius across the water, with a coastline filled with colourful parasols. The town's centre is filled with atmospheric narrow streets, lined with shops selling traditional products, such as ceramics and limoncello, a liqueur made from locally grown lemons.

Your luxurious yacht cruise returns to Civitavecchia, an ancient seaport which traces its origins back to the 2nd century AD. Here, your memorable journey concludes, and 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 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 be operated unaltered from the itinerary states above.