Andalusia to Catalonia

Your journey begins in the cosmopolitan city of Malaga, the heart of the Costa del Sol. You’ll be transferred to your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht to begin your cruise around the Spanish Peninsula. Please book your flight to arrive into Malaga prior to 04:00 PM.

Enjoy a morning sail across the Strait of Gibraltar to Tangier. Europes 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 heavy fragrances of spices in the colourful markets and the murmurs of the sea and  – it’s a feast of sensations that stuns the senses. In the evening you’ll set sail for Gibraltar.

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. Today, it’s a quirky mix of traditional pubs, fish and chip shops, and fading seaside hotels. Climb or take the cable car to the top of the Rock of Gibraltar to look out across the strait to Africa and watch the cheeky barbary macaques pose for photographs.

Tucked away on the southeast corner of Spains 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.

Wake up early this morning and stand on your balcony to admire the spectacular natural harbour of Cartagena as your yacht sails into port. Part of the Mediterraneans 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.

The most famous party island in the world, Ibiza has become synonymous with electronic dance music, luxury living and late-night revelry. But while it’s a clubber’s paradise, it is also home to glorious beaches, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town and Bohemian wellness retreats.   Despite its hedonistic reputation, Ibiza promotes responsible tourism, with initiatives to ensure the islands natural beauty is preserved for future generations.

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.

The quietest and most relaxed of the Balearics, Menorca gives you a taste of how these islands used to be. The island’s capital, Mahón, is on the east coast and is yours to explore today. It sits on the largest natural harbour in the Mediterranean and was colonised by the British in the 18th century, leaving a legacy of grand naval buildings and Georgian townhouses. Beyond that, there’s a wealth of prehistoric structures to explore and the interior of the island remains largely untouched, dotted with rolling farmland and whitewashed villages.

Your luxurious yacht cruise concludes today in Barcelona, where you’ll be transferred to the airport for your return flight home or to continue your travels. Please book your flight to depart out of Barcelona after 02:00 PM. The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Emerald Cruises cannot guarantee the cruise will be operated unaltered from the itinerary states above.