Charming Mediterranean

Day 1: Lisbon, Portugal

Welcome to Portugal and its vibrant capital, Lisbon. You’ll be transferred to your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht to embark on your discovery of the Western Mediterranean.

Please book your flight to arrive into Lisbon prior to 12:00 PM.

Docked: 17:00 

Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Portimão, Portugal

After a picturesque cruise south along the Atlantic Coast of Portugal, sail into the Mediterranean and the beautiful city of Portimão. At the heart of the sparkling Algarve region, it gets more than 300 days of sunshine each year and has long been a bustling hub for fishing and ship building. Admire its historic centre, characterised by a distinctively Portuguese ambience, stroll through plazas filled with open-air cafés, and swim in the turquoise waters of Praia da Rocha.

DiscoverMORE
The Moorish City of Silves (extra expense, must be pre-booked) 
Journey into the heart of the Algarve, combining the medieval charm of Silves with the flavours of the region's renowned wines. Travel through the Algarve countryside to Silves, once the capital of the Algarve and home to the impressive Silves Castle, one of Portugal's finest Moorish fortresses. Pass the historic Silves Cathedral while discovering the town's rich Moorish heritage. Continue to Villa Alvor for a guided tasting of locally produced wines and regional specialities. Learn about the vineyard's unique terroir, shaped by the Algarve's clay and limestone soils, while enjoying views across the surrounding vineyards. 
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 4 hours 

DiscoverMORE
Cabo St. Vicente and Sagres fort (extra expense, must be pre-booked) 
Explore the dramatic coastline of the western Algarve, where rugged cliffs, historic landmarks, and charming towns reflect Portugal's rich maritime heritage. Visit Sagres Fortress, dramatically perched above the Atlantic Ocean and forever linked to Henry the Navigator and the Age of Discoveries. Continue to Cape St. Vincent, the southwesternmost point of mainland Europe, where towering cliffs, an iconic lighthouse, and breathtaking ocean views await. The excursion concludes in the historic town of Lagos, where a guided walk is followed by free time to browse local shops, relax in a café, or explore its atmospheric streets at your own pace. 
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes 

Docked: 12:00 –18:00 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Cádiz, Spain

The coastal town of Cádiz, in the Andalusian region of Spain, is your stop for today. Considered to be the oldest continually inhabited city in Europe, it was founded by the Phoenicians around 1100BC.  Cádiz has been a prominent trading port for centuries and is often referred to as the ‘City of the Watchtowers’ for its striking defensive structures from the 16th and 17th centuries. With a rich cultural, historical and architectural heritage, the city is filled with landmarks, antique quarters and lush gardens that will capture all your senses.

DiscoverMORE
Jerez and the unique taste of sherry (extra expense) 
Step into the heart of Andalusia with a visit to the historic city of Jerez de la Frontera, renowned for its rich heritage and world-famous sherry. Discover the city's highlights on a guided walk, including the impressive Alcázar of Jerez, a magnificent Moorish fortress that reflects centuries of Andalusian history. Continue to the renowned Tio Pepe Winery, where you'll explore its historic cellars, learn about the traditional art of sherry production, and enjoy a tasting of its celebrated wines. Your excursion concludes with a scenic drive back to Cádiz, offering a final opportunity to admire the landscapes of Andalusia. 
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes 

DiscoverMORE
The Best of Seville (extra expense) 
Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of Seville, the elegant capital of Andalusia, where magnificent architecture and colourful streets reflect centuries of cultural influence. Enjoy a panoramic drive past the iconic Plaza de España and the lush María Luisa Park before visiting the magnificent Casa de Pilatos, an exquisite palace blending Mudéjar, Gothic, and Renaissance architecture. Continue with an exterior visit to the magnificent Seville Cathedral and its famous Giralda, the former Moorish minaret that has become one of the city's most recognisable landmarks. Complete your visit with a guided walk through the enchanting Barrio de Santa Cruz, Seville's historic Jewish quarter, where narrow streets, flower-filled squares, and whitewashed houses capture the city's timeless charm. Afterwards, enjoy free time for lunch at your own expense before returning to Cádiz. 
Activity Level: Active, Duration: 8 hours 

Docked: 08:00 – 22:00 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Tangier, Morocco

Enjoy a morning sail to Tangier. Guarding the Strait of Gibraltar, Tangiers has been Europe's gateway to Africa for centuries, welcoming with a blend of exotic cultures and influences unique to Morocco. Look, listen and smell: the diversity of the bustling local crowds, the heavy fragrances of spices in the colourful markets and murmurs of the sea and vibrant Old Town   – a feast of sensations that stuns the senses.

DiscoverMORE
Tangier City Tour with American Legation & Tea (extra expense) 
Uncover the vibrant sights, flavours, and rich heritage of Tangier, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean Sea and Europe and Africa are separated by just a narrow strait. Explore the historic Kasbah, the city's fortified hilltop quarter, and visit the Kasbah Museum of Mediterranean Cultures, housed within the former Dar El-Makhzen Palace. Admire its elegant courtyards, tranquil gardens, remarkable Roman mosaics, and fascinating collections reflecting Tangier's multicultural past. Continue through the winding streets and lively souks of the Medina, where colourful stalls display traditional Moroccan crafts, spices, and textiles, offering time to browse for local souvenirs. Your visit also includes the historic American Legation, the first American public property established outside the United States and a symbol of the long-standing friendship between the two nations. Before concluding your exploration, relax with traditional Moroccan hospitality while enjoying mint tea, freshly squeezed orange juice or coffee, accompanied by a selection of Moroccan pastries at Palais Zahia. 
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 4 hours 

DiscoverMORE
Cooking Class at the Blue Door (extra expense) 
Step into the heart of Tangier's Medina and discover the flavours and traditions of Moroccan cuisine on this immersive culinary experience. Follow your guide through the bustling souks and vibrant market, where you'll gain an insight into daily life while learning a few useful Arabic phrases along the way. Continue to a local culinary school for a hands-on cooking class, where you'll prepare a traditional Moroccan tagine using authentic ingredients and time-honoured techniques. Working together under the guidance of local chefs, you'll discover the secrets behind one of Morocco's most iconic dishes before sitting down to enjoy the delicious meal you have helped create. 
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 4 hours 

Docked: 08:00 – 21:00 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Malaga, Spain

Arrive in Malaga this morning, one of the great cultural hubs of Spain and the capital of the Costa del Sol. The birthplace of Pablo Picasso, it has an impressive collection of galleries, a buzzing art district and exceptional dining. You’ll also find many impressive historic sights, including the Alcazaba, which is one of the largest Arab fortresses in Andalusia. Climb up to Gibralfaro Castle, 132 metres above sea level, to take in the best views over the city.

Today choose between our Included Excursion or DiscoverMORE option

Included Excursion
Captivating Malaga 
Explore the rich history of Málaga, where Moorish fortresses, Roman remains, and elegant boulevards tell the story of one of Spain's oldest cities. Begin with a panoramic drive to Gibralfaro Castle, perched high above the city, where sweeping views extend across Málaga, its harbour, and the historic bullring. Continue to the impressive Alcazaba, the beautifully preserved 11th-century Moorish fortress inspired by the Alhambra, before discovering the adjacent Roman Theatre, one of the city's most important archaeological landmarks dating back to the 1st century BC. Complete your visit with a refreshment at a traditional Málaga bar, offering a taste of the city's warm Andalusian hospitality. 
Activity Level: Active, Duration: 4 hours 

DiscoverMORE
Charming White Villages of Mijas (extra expense) 
Journey into the hills above the Costa del Sol to discover Mijas, one of Andalusia's most picturesque whitewashed villages, where narrow streets, panoramic views, and centuries of history create an unmistakably Spanish atmosphere. Follow the scenic coastal route before ascending to Mijas, beautifully perched on the mountainside overlooking the Mediterranean. Visit the charming Virgen de la Peña Chapel, a unique sanctuary carved into the rock, and admire the traditional Mijas Bullring and, where possible, the local parish church. Pause at one of the village's panoramic viewpoints to take in sweeping views of the coastline before continuing to the Mayan Monkey Mijas Chocolate Factory. Learn about the fascinating history of chocolate, see beautifully restored antique machinery still in operation today, and conclude your visit with a tasting of handcrafted organic chocolates accompanied by a glass of local wine. 
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 5 hours 

Docked: 08:00 – 18:00 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Cartagena, Spain

Wake up early this morning and stand on your balcony to admire the spectacular natural harbour of Cartagena as your yacht sails into port. Part of the Mediterranean's Costa Cálida, Cartagena was one of the most important naval ports in Spain until the 18th century. This portside town has been inhabited by several cultures over the centuries, all of whom have left their mark on its streets. Walk its beautiful streets and see layers of history unfold before you, from the Roman Amphitheatre to the Torre Ciega and the Castillo de la Concepción.

EmeraldPLUS
Andalusian Horses Cartagena Spain 
Step into the world of the magnificent Pure Spanish Horse with a visit to a traditional family-owned ranch just outside Cartagena, where generations of the Conesa family have dedicated themselves to breeding these elegant animals. Meet mares and their foals in the paddocks before witnessing impressive demonstrations showcasing the beauty, intelligence, and agility of these celebrated horses. Learn about the art of breeding and training while experiencing daily life on this authentic working ranch. Your visit concludes with traditional Spanish tapas and refreshments, accompanied by a captivating performance combining the grace of an Andalusian dancer with the precision and harmony of a beautifully trained stallion. 
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 3 hours

Docked: 13:00 – 19:00 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Ibiza, Spain 

The most famous party island in the world, Ibiza has become synonymous with electronic dance music, luxury living and late-night revelry. But while it’s a clubber’s paradise, it is also home to glorious beaches, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town and Bohemian wellness retreats. Despite its hedonistic reputation, Ibiza promotes responsible tourism, with initiatives to ensure the island's natural beauty is preserved for future generations.

EmeraldACTIVE
D'alt Vila Walking Tour  
Wander through the enchanting streets of Dalt Vila, Ibiza's beautifully preserved Old Town and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where centuries of history unfold within impressive Renaissance walls. Enter the historic quarter through the iconic Ses Taules Gate before exploring its maze of narrow cobbled streets, picturesque squares, and panoramic terraces overlooking Ibiza Town and its harbour. Along the way, admire landmarks including the magnificent Cathedral of Santa María, the elegant Episcopal Palace, the historic Town Hall, and the former Dominican Convent, while your guide shares stories of the island's fascinating past. Following the guided walk, enjoy free time to explore at your own pace before relaxing over a traditional ensaimada pastry accompanied by coffee. 
Activity Level: Active, Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes 

Docked: 09:30 – 17:00 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Mahón, Menorca, Spain

The quietest and most relaxed of the Balearic Islands, Menorca gives you a taste of how these islands used to be. The island’s capital, Mahón, is on the east coast and is yours to explore today. It sits on the largest natural harbour in the Mediterranean and was colonised by the British in the 18th century, leaving a legacy of grand naval buildings and Georgian townhouses. Beyond that, there’s a wealth of prehistoric structures to explore and the interior of the island remains largely untouched, dotted with rolling farmland and whitewashed villages.

DiscoverMORE
Cultures of Menorca (extra expense) 
Discover the authentic charm of Menorca, where picturesque fishing villages, local culinary traditions, and elegant historic streets offer a true taste of island life. Begin in the peaceful harbour village of Fornells, where whitewashed houses and a relaxed waterfront invite you to explore at your own pace. Continue to a traditional cheese farm to learn how the island's famous Mahón Cheese is produced, before enjoying a tasting of this celebrated local speciality. Conclude your excursion with a guided walk through Mahón, Menorca's historic capital. Admire its elegant architecture and visit landmarks including the Church of Santa María, while discovering the island's rich history and cultural heritage. 
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 4 hours 

Docked: 09:00 – 17:00 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Alghero, Sardinia, Italy

Cross into Italy and the island of Sardinia, sitting off the west coast of the mainland in the Tyrrhenian Sea. The charming city of Alghero is on the island’s northwestern tip and is known for its gold sea walls, built in the 16th century. White sandy beaches, crystal clear water and blissful climate make it one of the Sardinia’s most popular resorts. Alghero’s culture is a fascinating blend of Spanish and Italian (the official language is Catalan) and you’ll see it in the architecture, lifestyle and cuisine.

DiscoverMORE
Tour of Alghero and Surroundings (extra expense) 
Travel along one of Sardinia's most scenic coastal routes to the colourful riverside town of Bosa, where medieval streets, historic architecture, and local traditions have remained remarkably unchanged. Dominated by Malaspina Castle, Bosa unfolds along the banks of the Temo River, the island's only navigable river. Stroll through the charming Sa Costa medieval quarter, where narrow alleyways, stone archways, and picturesque squares showcase the town's rich heritage. Along the elegant Corso Vittorio Emanuele, admire historic buildings and discover the traditions of Bosa filet, the intricate lacework for which the town is renowned. Complete your visit with a tasting of the region's celebrated Malvasia di Bosa DOC wine at a traditional cellar, accompanied by a selection of sweet and savoury local specialities. 
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 5 hours 

Anchored: 13:00 – 21:00 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10: Bonifacio, Corsica, France

Perched atop a narrow limestone peninsula on the French Island of Corsica, Bonifacio has 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. Don’t miss 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.

Included Excursion
Highlights of Bonifacio (With Tasting) 
Discover the dramatic clifftop town of Bonifacio, where medieval streets, spectacular coastal scenery, and centuries of Corsican history combine to create one of the island's most unforgettable destinations. Begin with a ride on the tourist train to the upper town, passing the Bosco Quarter, the Convent of St Francis, and the distinctive Marine Cemetery, renowned for its elaborate mausoleums. On clear days, enjoy views across the Strait of Bonifacio to neighbouring Sardinia. Continue on foot through the fortified citadel, exploring its maze of narrow streets and historic landmarks, including St Dominique Church, one of the few examples of Gothic architecture in Corsica, St Marie Majeure Church, Place des Armes, and the spectacular viewpoints overlooking Bonifacio's towering limestone cliffs. Pause at a local wine bar to sample Corsican specialities accompanied by a glass of regional wine while enjoying breathtaking views over the cliffs. Your walk concludes at the Porte de Gênes and St Roch Chapel, before descending the famous Escalier de la Montée Saint-Roch to the marina. You may either return with your group or remain in Bonifacio to continue exploring independently. 
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes 

Docked: 08:00 – 17:00 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11: Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy

Your time on board your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht comes to an end in Civitavecchia, a historic seaport and main gateway for the Italian capital, Rome, the ‘Eternal City’ and former epicentre of the ancient Roman Empire.  After bidding farewell to the crew and your fellow guests, you’ll  be transferred to the airport for your return flight home.

DiscoverMORE
Rome on Your Own (extra expense, must be booked on board) 
Experience the timeless appeal of Rome, where ancient monuments, elegant piazzas, and world-famous landmarks showcase more than two thousand years of history. Travel along the scenic Tyrrhenian Coast before arriving in the Eternal City for a panoramic drive past iconic sights, including the Circus Maximus and the magnificent Colosseum, once the largest amphitheatre in the Roman Empire. Continue into the heart of the city to enjoy free time at leisure, with the opportunity to discover celebrated landmarks such as the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and the lively Piazza Navona, or relax at one of Rome's traditional cafés. In the afternoon, continue your orientation drive past Castel Sant'Angelo, Vatican City, and the magnificent St Peter's Basilica, pausing for photographs before departing Rome. 
Activity Level: Active, Duration: 9 hours  

Notes: This excursion is available for guests continuing on the next cruise.  

DiscoverMORE
Rome Tour & Transfer (extra expense, must be booked on board) 
Make the most of your final day with a journey from Civitavecchia to Rome, combining a comfortable transfer with the opportunity to experience some of the Eternal City's most celebrated landmarks before continuing to the airport.Travel through the scenic Etruscan countryside along the Tyrrhenian Coast before meeting your guide in Rome. Enjoy a guided orientation featuring exterior views of iconic sights including the magnificent Colosseum, the historic Roman Forum, and the beautiful Trevi Fountain, while learning about the fascinating history behind these world-famous monuments. Following your visit, continue directly to Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (FCO) for your onward flight. 
Activity Level: Active, Duration: 5 hours 30 minutes 

Notes: Available only to participants on flights departing from FCO after 4:30 pm. Luggage will remain securely stored on the coach throughout the excursion. 

Please book your flight to depart out of Rome after 01:00 PM.

Docked: 7:00 

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons, including changes to port timings and berth status. Emerald Cruises cannot guarantee that the cruise will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.

Meals: Breakfast