Discover the Eastern Mediterranean: 15 days Dubrovnik to Athens (Piraeus)

Your Mediterranean yacht cruise begins in the historic city of Dubrovnik. Often referred to as the Pearl of the Adriatic, this World Heritage-listed city is celebrated for its breathtaking architecture – red terracotta rooftops and pale stone walls creating a striking contrast against the turquoise waters below. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your Emerald luxury yacht to embark on a voyage through intriguing cities and extraordinary coastlines. 

Please book your flight to arrive into Dubrovnik prior to 06:00 PM.

Enveloped by medieval walls, the fortified city of Kotor is a place of ancient stories and modern culture. Nestled between imposing mountains and the Adriatic Sea, this World Heritage-listed setting is brimming with Venetian palaces, cobblestone lanes and café-hemmed squares. Climb the 1,350 steps up to St John’s Fortress, where you’ll have spectacular views over the Bay of Kotor. 

Sarandë is a popular coastal town on a crescent-shaped bay in Albania. The once-sleepy fishing village has a bustling seaside promenade, pebbled beaches and ancient ruins, including the ruins of an ancient synagogue thought to date from the fifth or sixth century, adorned with intricate mosaics and historical artefacts. From Sarandë, you’ll journey across the strait to Corfu, a large island with sandy coves and hills studded with olive, cypress and citrus trees. 

One of Greece’s most beloved and beautiful islands, Corfu is in the Ionian Sea and has a rich history and magnificent architecture displaying Renaissance and Baroque influences. Its UNESCO-listed Old Town has roots dating back to the 8th century BC and features architecture shaped by later Venetian and European influences. It is a labyrinthine maze of alleyways, home to the largest square in Greece, the impressive Spianada, a leafy green space with gardens and historical monuments. The island is also dotted with authentic Greek villages and beaches lapped by aquamarine waters. 

Parga, on mainland Greece, has a carefree holiday atmosphere. Enjoy the sunshine on one of the many beaches, explore traditional Greek villages, and marvel at the 11th-century Castle of Parga, which offers an incredible bird’s-eye view of the resort town and coastline. 

Known as the ’Caribbean of Greece’, Lefkada is connected to the mainland by a narrow bridge, making it one of the few Greek islands accessible directly by road. One of the most fascinating places in Lefkada is the Castle of Agia Mavra, dating to the 14th century and built to protect the island from invasions. The island’s modern marina has a thriving drinking and dining scene, while the town centre has many churches and museums. 

Sail to the small port of Itea, then embark on a journey to the archaeological site of Delphi, regarded by the Ancient Greeks as the centre of the world. After your visit, it’s time to pass through the 19th-century Corinth Canal. A feat of engineering, this narrow waterway was cut through solid rock and is more than six kilometres long, with walls that rise to about 79 metres (260 feet) at their highest point. It crosses the isthmus of Corinth in Greece, linking the Gulf of Corinth with the Saronic Gulf and shortening the sea route between the Ionian and Aegean Seas.

This morning, enjoy time at leisure exploring Athens, the ancient capital of Greece. The historic birthplace of democracy and western civilisation, this enthralling city offers a remarkable array of architectural wonders and storied Greek heritage, such as the iconic Acropolis and Parthenon. You’ll also find yourself charmed by Athen’s modern dynamism and vibrant Greek lifestyle.

In the afternoon, you’ll be welcomed back on board your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht for the second half of your journey, ready for further explorations of wondrous Greece and Turkey.

This morning, step ashore on Delos, one of Greece’s most significant mythological and archaeological treasures. According to legend, this sacred island was the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. Wander among remarkably preserved ruins, grand mosaics and ancient temples that paint a vivid picture of classical civilisation. 

Later, sail to glamorous Mykonos, where Cycladic charm meets cosmopolitan flair. Lose yourself in the maze of narrow lanes lined with whitewashed houses and chapels. Discover chic boutiques, waterfront tavernas and the island’s iconic windmills overlooking the Aegean. As evening falls, Mykonos reveals its vibrant energy, offering the ideal blend of tradition and modern sophistication. 

Often referred to as the ‘Island of the Apocalypse’, tranquil Patmos holds deep spiritual significance. In a cave overlooking the sea, Saint John is believed to have received the visions described in the Book of Revelation. Its historic centre, Chora, is a World Heritage Site made up of whitewashed buildings and narrow cobblestone streets lined with traditional Greek tavernas, shops and some 40 chapels. The island has a wild and rugged volcanic landscape that rolls down to deserted pebbled beaches and the sparkling Aegean Sea. Spend time soaking up the beauty, spirituality, and cultural significance of this island.   

Set along Turkey’s western Aegean coast, Kusadasi is a lively Turkish coastal town rich in history and culture. Its strategic location has made it a crossroads of civilisations for thousands of years. From here, you may explore the nearby ancient city of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved classical cities in the Mediterranean. Wander along marble streets lined with grand columns, temples, and the magnificent Library of Celsus. Back in Kusadasi, vibrant bazaars and seaside promenades offer a colourful taste of Turkish hospitality. 

Kos welcomes you with glorious landscapes and remarkable historical heritage. Known as the birthplace of Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, the island offers a fascinating journey into the ancient world. Explore the Asklepion, once a renowned healing sanctuary, along with Roman villas, ancient agora and medieval fortifications. The main town is a mishmash of architectural styles, and you’ll find whitewashed dwellings side by side with Muslim mosques, 1930s Italian-style buildings and the medieval Neratzia Castle. Kos also boasts beautiful beaches and relaxed island charm, perfect for leisurely exploration. 

Arriving by sea at Santorini offers a breathtaking first impression, with whitewashed villages perched dramatically atop volcanic cliffs above the Aegean. Stroll through Oia’s narrow lanes, where blue-domed churches and cascading bougainvillea create postcard-worthyscenes at every turn. Relax on distinctive volcanic-sand beaches or sample crisp local wines cultivated in mineral-rich soil. As you sail away, the sun sinks into the Aegean and Santorini’s legendary sunset paints the sky in hues of gold and crimson – a moment to cherish forever. 

The paradise island of Paros rose to power and prosperity in the sixth century BC for its high-quality marble, Parian marble, used for the construction of many temples and public buildings. It’s home to ancient ruins, Venetian castles and traditional Greek architecture,and draws in visitors to its stunning beaches, crystal-clear azure waters and charming local villages. The main town, Parikia, is nestled on a hill overlooking the port. Its cobbled lanes are bustling with activity, lined with shops, cafés and restaurants serving delicious local Greek cuisine. It also has a historic Frankish castle built in the 1200s. The island’s other town, Naoussa, is a picturesque harbour wherewooden boats sway and waterside restaurants grill freshly caught seafood. 

Your luxurious yacht cruise concludes in the dynamic Greek capital, Athens. Farewell your crew and fellow guests, taking with you a lifetime of memories. You will be transferred to the airport for your return flight home or to continue your journey. 

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