Islands of the Mediterranean: Spain to Malta

Your unforgettable cruise begins in Spain and the cosmopolitan city of Barcelona, where you’ll be transferred to your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht to begin a voyage discovering the Mediterranean’s beautiful islands. Please book your flight to arrive into Barcelona prior to 01:00 PM.

Part of the Spanish Balearic Islands, Menorca may not be as famous as its neighbouring islands of Mallorca and Ibiza, but equals them in natural beauty, blessed with stunning white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lush green landscapes. The island’s capital, Mahón, welcomes as a bustling port town with a charming old quarter and is worth exploring for its narrow cobblestone streets, colourful buildings, and bustling waterfront lined with restaurants and cafés. 

Perched atop a narrow limestone peninsula on the southern shores of the French island of Corsica, Bonifacio reveals breathtaking views of the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. This picturesque town is known for its deep natural harbour and atmospheric Old Town, an imposing medieval citadel perched atop white limestone cliffs.

Sitting high above the Mediterranean Sea, Bonifacio is known for its dramatic cliffs, ancient fortifications, and a labyrinth of medieval streets. The town is built on a promontory carved out by wind and wave erosion over time, creating a stunning backdrop of white cliffs. You will overnight in Porto Cervo.

Welcome to Sardinia and Porto Cervo, one of Italy’s most renowned beach resort towns and a favourite holiday playground for yachting enthusiasts and the rich and famous. Porto Cervo’s impressive marina is crammed with gleaming mega yachts and is known for hosting prestigious sailing competitions, such as the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup. Despite its reputation for luxury, Porto Cervo has not however, lost its unmistakable Sardinian charm and its striking architecture is defined by colourful villas, narrow winding streets, and lovely piazzas.

The capital of Sardinia, Cagliari comes prettily sandwiched between rolling verdant hills and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. It is home to one of the longest beaches in Italy, Poetta Beach, and Molentargius-Saline Regional Park, known for its bright pink flamingo colonies. For a unique culinary experience, sample some of the traditional local dishes, such as malloreddus (Sardinian gnocchi) and porceddu (roast suckling pig).

Located on the western coast of Sicily, Trapani is famous for its storied history as a trading port, interwoven with influences from diverse civilisations, including the Greeks, Romans, Arabs, and Normans. Trapanis scenic setting, nestled between the sea and nearby hills, offers visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. The city centre is defined by narrow winding streets, baroque-era architecture, and bustling markets selling fresh seafood and local produce. Noteworthy historic landmarks include the 14th-century Castello di Terra and 17th-century Palazzo della Giudecca.

Lipari is the largest and most populated of the Aeolian Islands, a volcanic archipelago off the coast of Sicily amid the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea. Its stunning scenery is characterised by rugged coastline, beautiful beaches lapped by crystal-clear waters and lush vegetation. In the charming Old Town, explore the winding, narrow streets and alleys lined with a contrasting blend of pastel-hued town houses and simple dwellings and the 16th-century castle, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Set 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 popular for its beautiful sandy beaches, clear blue waters, and vibrant waterfront promenade edged with bustling restaurants, shops, and cafés. Giardini Naxos also harbours a rich history, with archaeological sites dating back to ancient times.

Syracuse is a historic city located on the southeastern coast of Sicily, renowned for its ancient ruins, picturesque architecture, and stunning waterfront views. Syracuses historical centre, Ortygia, is a charming island connected to the mainland by a series of bridges. Stroll through the meandering narrow streets lined with Baroque-era buildings, visit the stunning Cathedral of Syracuse, and enjoy fresh seafood at the delightful waterfront restaurants.

Your luxurious yacht cruise concludes in the tiny capital of Malta, Valletta – the entire city designated a UNESCO World Heritage Centre – where 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 Valletta after 12:00 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. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.