Yachting gems of the French and Italian Rivieras: 8 days Nice to Barcelona

Your memorable cruise begins in Nice, on the chic French Riviera, where you’ll be transferred to your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht to begin your voyage through the beautiful Western Mediterranean. 

Please book your flight to arrive into Nice prior to 03:00 PM.

Docked: 20:00

Welcome to Santa Margherita Ligure, an Italian resort town presenting panoramic views and revered for its timeless elegance and style. For those seeking ‘La dolce vita’, you’ll find it here in abundance. Stroll the Santa Margherita promenade, or the pebbly beachfront, admiring the gleaming yachts and vibrant, upscale bars. Explore a beautiful Baroque church, or sample freshly caught, succulent red shrimps.

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Hike to Portofino (extra expense, must be pre-booked)
Meet your guide at Santa Margherita pier and board your vehicle to Nozarego, where your hiking experience to Portofino begins. The path winds through Mediterranean flora, vineyards, and olive groves, with cliffs dropping to the crystal sea. Enjoy a picnic with local focaccia and wine, then continue past elegant villas among tropical plants and olive trees. Upon reaching Portofino, enjoy a guided stroll around this iconic destination before a short boat journey returns you to Santa Margherita.
Activity Level: Strenuous, Duration: 3.5 hours

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Culinary experience in Rapallo (extra expense, must be pre-booked)
Embark on a culinary journey blending Italian cooking with the Ligurian coast. Join your guide at the pier and set sail on a motorboat for a day of pesto, pasta, and the charm of Rapallo and Portofino. Upon arriving in Rapallo, stroll to Chef Guido’s culinary haven. Learn the secrets of pesto and pasta and enjoy a delicious lunch of your creations. Afterward, explore Rapallo’s historic squares, boutiques, or seaside cafés. Continue your journey with a scenic ride to Portofino, famed for its pastel buildings. Discover its charming piazzas, waterfront, and the enchanting Mediterranean atmosphere that defines this coastal gem.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 4.75 hours

Later in the morning, you’ll sail on to Portofino. Nestled along the Italian Riviera, Portofino boasts a rich gastronomic scene, a picturesque harbour and charming narrow streets lined with pastel-hued houses, high-end boutiques and plenty of seafood restaurants. 

EmeraldACTIVE
Portofino lighthouse & Brown Castle Walk
Experience the charm of Portofino as you stroll through its stunning landscapes and historic sites. Soak in the coastal views and vibrant colours of this picturesque fishing village. Discover the ancient Brown Castle and learn about its fascinating 16th-century history while enjoying breathtaking coastal vistas from the grounds. Visit San Giorgio Church, known for its beautiful frescoes and tranquil atmosphere. Admire its architecture and stunning views, perfect for memorable photos before heading to the lighthouse.
Activity Level: Strenuous, Duration: 2 hours

Offshore: 07:00 - 12:30 | 14:30 - 23:00

Set on the Ligurian Coast, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town of Porto Venere harbours a romantic history, thanks to its penchant for attracting famous poets and artists over the centuries, including Lord Byron. In homage, this quaint town overlooks what is known as the ‘Gulf of Poets’.  Discover evocative, narrow stepped lanes, known as Caruggi, which were originally designed to shield locals from the elements and winding streets lined with colourful houses; follow them up to Doria Castle for lovely views of the town and Church of San Pietro.

Included Excursion
Walking tour of PortoVenere
Discover the timeless charm of Portovenere, a picturesque Ligurian seaside village renowned for its colorful waterfront, medieval lanes, and breathtaking views across the Gulf of La Spezia and Cinque Terre coastline. Explore historic landmarks including the striking San Pietro Church and the ruins of Castello di Venere, while wandering through atmospheric streets lined with cafés, boutiques, and elegant Genoese-Gothic architecture. Complete your visit with a tasting of traditional Italian snacks at a local café, soaking in the authentic atmosphere of one of Italy’s most enchanting coastal gems. 
Activity Level: Strenuous, Duration: 2.30 hours

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Cinque Terre by private boat (extra expense)
Start your day in Portovenere, a UNESCO-listed town. From there, board your private motorboat and set off to explore the Cinque Terre coast. Your first stop will be Monterosso with a guided tour of the village, treat yourself to a delicious pesto bruschetta paired with local wine. Next, visit Vernazza, a charming fishing village known for its picturesque port surrounded by soft pastel-coloured buildings. Enjoy some leisure time before returning to Portovenere.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 4.5 hours

EmeraldPLUS
Echoes of the Renaissance
Experience the essence of the Renaissance through this captivating performance of historic dances. The choreography draws inspiration from the Renaissance and Genoese Siglo de Oro, featuring dances based on the works of Cesare Negri and Fabrizio Caroso. Marvel at the elegant movements and period costumes that bring centuries past vividly to life.
Event duration: 1 hour

Offshore: 08:00 - 19:00

According to local legend, Calvi is where the intrepid, 15th century explorer, Christopher Columbus, was born. While historians may debate this, the natural beauty and rich culture of Calvi – set on the French island of Corsica – is undisputed. Calvi's beach presents a crescent-shaped bay of powdery white sand fringed by maritime pines, while the town has evolved as Corsica’s ‘culture capital’, hosting several music festivals over the idyllic summer months.

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Discover old Corsica and its villages (extra expense)
Your first stop is the ancient circular village of Sant’ Antonino, perched majestically on a rocky outcrop overlooking the sea. Next, venture to the hilltop village of Pigna, nestled in the heart of the Balagne region. This charming village, adorned with flower-filled streets and a quaint village square, is a haven for artists and artisans. Your journey continues through the scenic countryside, passing through the historic villages of Corbara and Aregno. Marvel at the timeless beauty of these ancient settlements before returning to Calvi. 
Activity Level: Strenuous, Duration: 4 hours

Offshore: 08:00 - 19:00

A shining jewel of the Côte d’Azur, the legendary beach resort town of Saint-Tropez is one of the most famous holiday destinations in Europe. From the soft white sand beaches lapped by turquoise water to the jetsetter beach clubs, decadent dining and luxury designer boutiques, glamorous Saint-Tropez is the ultimate French Riviera experience. For history buffs, learn more about the fascinating story of Saint-Tropez at the Musée d'Histoire Maritime, or peruse the incredible modern art inside a former chapel at the Annonciade. 

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Walking tour of St. Tropez (extra expense)
Embark on a guided tour of Saint Tropez, starting at the pier. Stroll along to see landmarks like café "Senequier" and the historic Town Hall square, reflecting the village's heritage. Visit the church dedicated to Saint Tropez and learn its intriguing legend. Wander through narrow streets and squares with elm trees, symbols of freedom. Trek uphill for stunning panoramic views of the village and the Mediterranean Sea.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 2.5 hours

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Tour of Gassin and port Grimaud (extra expense)
Just a few miles from St Tropez are the charming villages of Gassin and Port Grimaud. This half-day excursion starts with a motor coach ride to Gassin, a picturesque village high on a rock, offering stunning views of vineyards and the Gulf of St Tropez. You'll have time to explore its alleyways and steps. Next, head to Port Grimaud for a 20-minute motor launch trip. While it looks like a fishing village, it’s a modern complex of luxury homes. Enjoy the pastel-coloured walls and Roman tiles as you wander before returning to the pier.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 4.15 hours

Offshore: 08:0 - 23:00

Sanary-sur-Mer, presents the quintessential French Provençal port, complete with traditional wooden fishing boats bobbing in the harbour, pastel-coloured houses lining the shoreline and a bustling daily market in the town centre – regarded as the finest in France for its outstanding variety of local produce. 

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Castellet and wine tasting (extra expense)
Embark on a delightful journey to a medieval village and a renowned wine estate, starting with a scenic coach ride to Castellet, a charming Provençal gem. Perched on a hillside overlooking vineyards, this historic stronghold features well-preserved ramparts, a 12th-century church, and an 11th-century castle. Wander through narrow streets, visit the stunning St. Sauveur church, and enjoy breathtaking views at the “Trou de Madame” viewpoint. Then, head to a Bandol winery to explore winemaking and sample exquisite local wines and olive oil, with a tasting of regional delicacies.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 4.15 hours

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E-bike Tour (extra expense)
Embark on an unforgettable biking adventure through the stunning landscapes of Sanary. Enjoy a scenic ride along the coastal road while soaking in beautiful views. Your safety is ensured with a mandatory helmet provided. After a thorough briefing, you'll explore the area, taking breaks to enjoy the surroundings. An e-bike, helmet, and a backpack with snacks, including fruit, a cereal bar, and water, are included for your comfort. Riders must be at least 140 cm tall, experienced, and proficient in bike gears and hand brakes. The ride covers 10 to 12 kilometres with a pace suited for all.
Activity Level: Strenuous, Duration: 3.5 hours

Offshore: 08:00 - 18:00

Known as the "Venice of Languedoc," Sète is a picturesque Mediterranean port renowned for its charming canals, colorful fishing boats, and relaxed coastal atmosphere. Set between the Mediterranean Sea and the Étang de Thau lagoon, the town offers a blend of maritime heritage, vibrant markets, fresh seafood, and beautiful waterfront promenades. Enjoy panoramic views from Mont Saint-Clair, explore the historic center, or simply soak up the authentic charm of southern France.

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Montpellier & Chateau Flaugergues (extra expense)
Discover the elegant charm of Montpellier, a vibrant city where centuries of history, culture, and learning blend seamlessly with a lively Mediterranean atmosphere. Enjoy a guided walking tour of the historic centre, wandering along medieval streets lined with beautiful 17th- and 18th-century buildings and picturesque squares. Time permitting, enjoy free time at Place de la Comédie, the city's iconic central square.Continue to Château de Flaugergues, one of Montpellier’s finest historic estates and a residence of exceptional character that has remained in the same family for generations. During your guided château visit, admire the grand interiors, including a monumental staircase and magnificent 17th-century Brussels tapestries, before strolling through the elegant French-style gardens featuring rare tree species.Your experience concludes with a wine tasting at the estate, offering a delightful introduction to the region’s winemaking heritage before returning to Sète. 
Activity Level: Strenuous, Duration: 4.5 hours

Offshore: 08:00 - 16:00

Your luxurious yacht cruise concludes in Catalonia’s cosmopolitan capital, Barcelona, 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 Barcelona after 01:00 PM.

*Please verify with the Shore Excursion Manager onboard whether a DiscoverMORE tour is available on disembarkation day. 

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.

Docked: 08:00