Yachting gems of the French & Italian Rivieras - Barcelona to Nice

Welcome to Spain and the cosmopolitan city of Barcelona. Your journey begins here, among the vibrant colours and cultures of the Catalan region. Youll be transferred to your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht to begin your cruise around the rivieras of the Mediterranean.
Please book your flight to arrive into Barcelona prior to 04:00 PM.

The Costa Brava (meaning the Rugged Coast) is arguably the most beautiful of Spains three holiday coasts. The seaside village of Roses sits on its northern edge, close to the border with France, making for a captivating blend of cultures in a stunning setting where the mountains meet the sea. Roses began as a fishing village and is still the place to sample exceptional fresh seafood. Be sure to try the local speciality of Suquet de Peix, a hearty fish soup prepared with the catch of the day along with garlic, tomatoes and saffron.

Sailing into France, your first port along the famed Cte d'Azur (French Riviera) is Sanary-sur-Mer., This classic Provenal port town still has colourful wooden fishing boats bobbing in the harbour and pastel houses lining the shore. Its famous for its bustling daily market in the town centre, which has been named the most beautiful in France. Walk through the stalls to see fresh produce, just-caught seafood and roasting chickens, then sample a cade, a traditional wood-fired pancake that has been a popular snack here for more than 200 years.

A shining jewel of the Cte dAzur, the legendary resort town of Saint-Tropez is one of the most famous holiday destinations in Europe. It has been drawing celebrities and royalty since the 1950s look out over the superyachts jostling for space in the marina, a sure sign that the international jet set is in town. From the soft white sand lapped by clear blue water to the on-trend beach clubs, decadent dining and luxury boutiques, Saint-Tropez is the ultimate French Riviera experience. For history buffs, learn the story of Saint-Tropez at the Muse d'Histoire Maritime, or peruse the incredible modern art inside a former chapel at the Annonciade.

Today, youll arrive in Calvi, on the northwest shore of the French Island of Corsica. According to local legend, Calvi is where the 15th century Italian explorer Christopher Columbus was born. 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. The town has evolved to become Corsicas culture capital, hosting several music festivals over the idyllic summer months.

Situated along the Ligurian coast on Italys northwest shores, Porto Venere is an ancient city dating back to the first century BC. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its imbued with a romantic history thanks to its penchant for attracting famous poets and artists over the centuries. Porto Veneres wonderful swimming spots were beloved by, amongst others, the legendary English poet Lord Byron, who regularly bathed 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.

Welcome to Santa Margherita Ligure, a charming resort town with panoramic views thats revered for its timeless elegance and style. For those seeking la dolce vita, youre 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 fishermens catch of the day. Later in the morning, youll sail on to delightful Portofino. Embedded along the Italian Riviera, 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.

Your luxurious yacht cruise concludes in Nice, France, where youll be transferred to the airport for your return flight home or to continue your travels. Please book your flight to depart out of Nice after 01:00 PM.