Catalonia to Andalusia: 9 days Barcelona to Malaga

Welcome to Spain and the cosmopolitan city of Barcelona. Your journey begins here, among the vibrant colours and cultures of the Catalan region. You’ll be transferred to your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht to begin your cruise around the Spanish coast.

Please book your flight to arrive into Barcelona prior to 01:00 PM.

The capital of the Balearic Islands, Mallorca is famous for its stunning coastline, historic towns and delicious cuisine. Its capital city, Palma de Mallorca, dates to the 13th century and is a vision in honey-coloured stone. Marvel at its grand Gothic cathedral, walk the medieval streets lined with aristocratic townhouses and sip coffee in bustling public squares. Elsewhere on the island, discover the authentic village of Valldemossa, the unspoilt beaches and natural beauty of the landscape.

Ibiza's party scene is legendary, attracting thousands of revellers each year from around the world. This gorgeous Balearic Island, just off the coast of Spain, has become synonymous with electronic dance music, jetsetters lifestyle, and late-night revelry. Despite its hedonistic reputation however, Ibiza also promotes responsible tourism, with initiatives to ensure that the island's natural beauty, including beautiful sandy coves backed by pine-clad hills, is preserved for future generations. 

Part of Spain’s southeastern Costa Blanca coast, Alicante enjoys a lovely Mediterranean climate of hot summers, mild winters and almost endless sunshine, making it a popular holiday destination year-round. This picturesque port city is known for its beautiful beaches such as Playa de San Juan and Postiguet Beach, which entice travellers from around the world. Set atop a hill in the heart of Alicante, you can discover the Castle of Santa Barbara, dating back to the ninth century.  It’s also considered one of the best cities for eating out in Spain, so expect street snacks, delicious restaurants and late-night haunts.

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.

Tucked away on the southeast corner of Spain's Mediterranean coast, Almeria is one of the quieter ports of Andalusia. The city has a handsome historic centre, with palm tree-lined plazas, stone churches, the incredible Moorish Alcazaba and many excellent tapas bars. On the northern edge of the town is the remarkable Tabernas Desert, the only desert in Europe. This dramatic, bone-dry landscape has been used as a filming location for classic Westerns since the 1950s. 

A little slice of England on the edge of Spain, Gibraltar has been under British rule since 1704.  It's incredible position on the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula has made it the guardian of the entrance to the Mediterranean Sea for centuries. You’ll be amazed by the highlight of this British Overseas Territory: the towering limestone monolith known as the Rock of Gibraltar, which dominates the landscape. From its summit, you can enjoy breathtaking views across the Strait. Designated as a nature reserve, the rock is also home to a colony of Barbary apes—the only wild monkeys found in Europe.

Enjoy a morning sail across the Strait of Gibraltar to Tangier. Europe's gateway to Africa for centuries, Tangier welcomes you with a blend of exotic cultures and influences unique to Morocco. The diversity of the bustling local crowds, the fragrances of spices in the colourful markets and the murmurs of the sea and – it’s a feast of sensations that stuns the senses.

Your luxurious yacht cruise returns to the beautiful Andalusia region, concluding in Málaga, 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 Malaga after 01:00 PM.

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.