Riviera Rendezvous

Summary

Fly from the UK to Nice. Your luxurious yacht cruise begins in Nice, where you’ll be transferred to your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht and embark on your discovery of the French and Italian coasts.

Flight to arrive into Nice prior to 01:00 PM.

Docked: 18:00

Summary

The multicultural city of Marseille in the south of France is a must-see destination for culture and atmosphere. The eclectic seaport has a bold arts scene — see Musée d'Histoire de Marseille for artifacts from the city's past, or Musée d'Art Contemporain for modern pieces. Marseille's music scene is also vibrant, and it's known as the birthplace of French hip hop.

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A gastronomic walk-through Marseilles (extra expense, must be pre-booked)
Marseilles, one of the Mediterranean's oldest ports, was essential for ancient Greek and Phoenician trade and launched the French wine industry. Today, it's France's largest commercial port and second-largest city. Explore the historic Panier District with its narrow, cobblestone streets and colorful buildings. Enjoy cafes and visit landmarks like the Town Hall and Vieille Charity Cultural Centre to experience the local culture. Stop by the Mucem Museum, inaugurated in 2013, and indulge at a local artisan chocolate shop, sampling unique chocolates with olive oil, aged vinagers, and regional delicacies.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 3.45 hours 

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Aix-en-Provence (extra expense, must be pre-booked)
Departing from Marseille, your bus and guide will take you through the picturesque roads of Provence to Aix-en-Provence, the region's capital. This charming city, known for its stunning townhouses, vibrant flower-filled squares, and historic fountains, has earned the title "Florence of Provence." It's the birthplace of renowned figures like painter Paul Cézanne and writer Emile Zola. Explore the narrow cobblestone streets and the bustling Cours Mirabeau, blending medieval and 18th-century architecture. Enjoy some free time before returning to Marseille.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 4.15 hours 

Docked: 08:00 - 19:00

Summary

The resort town of Saint-Tropez is one of the most famous holiday destinations in Europe. From the soft white sand edging blue water to the on-trend beach clubs, decadent dining and luxury boutiques, Saint-Tropez is the ultimate French Riviera experience.

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Tour of Gassin and port Grimaud (extra expense)
Discover the charming villages of Gassin and Port Grimaud on a half-day excursion from St Tropez. Start with a scenic drive to Gassin, a picturesque village offering stunning views of vineyards and the Gulf of St Tropez. Enjoy wandering its quaint alleyways. Next, visit Port Grimaud, a vibrant coastal community that blends fishing village charm with modern luxury. Take a scenic 20-minute boat ride through the canals, admiring the colourful homes before returning to your motor coach and heading back to the pier. 
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 4.15 hours  

Offshore: 08:00 - 20:00

Summary

Bonifacio is a picturesque hamlet located on the southern tip of the French island of Corsica. It's often mistaken for an Italian township due to its proximity to the Italian island of Sardinia. Bonifacio is recognised for its deep natural harbour and the captivating medieval citadel perched atop white limestone cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Today choose between our EmeraldPLUS or DiscoverMORE option.

EmeraldPLUS
Highlights of Bonifacio with local produce tastings
Begin your Bonifacio adventure with a mini train ride through the Bosco quarter, featuring St. Francis convent and a mariners' cemetery. Enjoy panoramic views of Sardinia before visiting the Corsican Gothic St. Dominique church, likely built by the Templars in 1270. Stroll through narrow streets, past the 14th-century St. Marie Majeure church, and explore historical sites like Two Emperors Street and Place des Armes. Savor local delicacies and Corsican wine at a wine bar.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 3.5 hours    

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Coastal boat trip (extra expense)
Join an exclusive coastal exploration starting from the pier aboard a comfortable boat. Sail through Bonifacio's narrow channel and pass the historic "Madonetta" lighthouse. Be amazed by the Sdragnato marine cave, featuring a natural skylight that highlights Corsica’s silhouette. Glide by "Fazio Creek," spotting landmarks like the "Rudder of Corsica" and the legendary King of Aragon's staircase, built for practical water transport in 1420. The excursion concludes at the iconic "Grain of Sand" rock, a stunning erosion-sculpted formation perfect for memorable photos.
Activity Level: Easy, Duration: 1.15 hours

Offshore/Docked: 13:00 - 07:00 (next day)

Summary

Porto Cervo is a favoured holiday playground for yachting enthusiasts and the rich and famous. The impressive marina is brimming with mega yachts and noted for hosting prestigious sailing competitions. Despite its reputation for luxury, Porto Cervo has not lost its Sardinian charm.

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Villages of Sardinia and Coddu Vecchiu Giant’s Tomb (extra expense)Depart for a quick stop in charming San Pantaleo, surrounded by granite peaks. Next, visit the Coddu Ecchiu archaeological site, home to the well-preserved Giants' Tomb, a significant Nuragic funerary structure from the Bronze Age. Explore its intricate design and semicircular ceremonial area with a large arched stele. Finally, head to the tranquil summer village of Baja Sardinia for stunning views before returning to the Porto Cervo parking lot and walking back leisurely.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 4 hours    

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Panoramic tour and visit to La Maddalena (extra expense)
Depart towards Palau, passing through charming San Pantaleo and Arzachena. In Palau, board a ferry to La Maddalena Island, taking in stunning views of Sardinia’s coastline and the Maddalena Archipelago. Explore Maddalena town, shopping and visiting Garibaldi Square, known for its red paving. Afterward, return to Palau and make your way back to Porto Cervo, concluding your day either by heading back to the ship or exploring Porto Cervo further.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 5 hours

Offshore: 12:30 - 18:00

Summary

The Port of Civitavecchia is often called the Port of Rome, and it’s one of the busiest ports in the Mediterranean Sea, playing a crucial role in maritime transport and tourism. Beyond its transportation merit, the Port of Civitavecchia has immense historical value. The seaport was founded in the 2nd century AD, and remnants of the ancient Roman port can still be seen today. 

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Guided tour of Rome (extra expense)
Embark on a scenic city tour of Rome, beginning with a picturesque drive along the Tyrrhenian coast. See (from outside) iconic landmarks like the Colosseum and Circus Maximus, then enjoy free time in charming squares such as the Trevi Fountain and Navona Square. In the afternoon, continue your journey with a drive past Castel Sant'Angelo and a photo stop at Vatican City. Conclude your adventure with a tranquil return to Civitavecchia port, cherishing memories of the Eternal City's beauty and history.
Activity Level: Strenuous, Duration: 9 hours

Docked: 07:00 - 21:00

Summary

Bastia, on the island of Corsica, is renowned for its bustling port, with ferries connecting the island to Italy and mainland France. Bastia is a foodie destination with numerous restaurants and markets serving local Corsican cuisine. Seafood is a menu mainstay, with local specialties such as aziminu, a type of fish bouillabaisse made with rockfish. Today choose between our Included Excursion or EmeraldACTIVE option.

Included Excursion
Highlights of Bastia
Bastia, northern Corsica's main town and largest commercial port, played a pivotal role in the island's development under Genoese rule due to its wealth and agricultural plantations. The excursion begins at Place St Nicolas, a central meeting point, followed by a guided stroll through Terra Vecchia, featuring highlights like St Jean Baptiste Church and its twin campaniles. You will explore charming landscapes, including the baroque Oratoire St Roch and the colorful Oratoire de l’Immaculée Conception, before visiting Terra Nova, home to the citadel and the 14th-century Palais des Gouverneurs.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 3 hours 

EmeraldACTIVE
Hiking tour in Bastia
Begin your tour departing from the port towards Terra Nova, exiting the Citadel through the main gateway beside the Palais des Gouverneurs. Stroll along the uphill chemin des Filipines for about 10 minutes to reach the Scala Santa, a remarkable 19th-century replica of the holy steps of Rome's Basilica of Saint-John Lateran. One of only seven in the world, its construction required papal consent, granted to Corsicans for their compassion during Napoleon's persecution. It’s believed that kneeling here for penance cleanses sins.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 3 hours

Docked: 09:00 - 16:00

Summary

Your luxurious yacht cruise concludes in Nice, where you’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight to the UK or to continue your holiday. 

Flight to depart out of Nice after 11:00 AM.

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.

Docked: 08:00