Mediterranean delights

Your unforgettable cruise begins in the island-nation of Malta and its tiny capital city, Valletta, which has been designated a World Heritage Site. Here, you’ll be transferred to your luxury Emerald yacht for the start of your marvellous voyage through the Mediterranean. Please book your flight to arrive into Valletta prior to 07:00 PM.

Your first stop is Mgarr, a small harbour village on Gozo known for its ferry port, surrounding rural landscapes, and traditional Maltese character. The village has a quaint, traditional feel, with charming old stone houses and winding cobbled streets that offer a unique and authentic Maltese experience. 

Located on the southern coast of Sicily, Porto Empedocle is a charming port town named after the ancient Greek philosopher Empedocles, who is historically associated with the nearby region of Agrigento. Here, you’ll discover a picturesque town with a lively waterfront area filled with fishing boats and yachts, and a reputation for the freshest seafood and traditional Sicilian cuisine. Porto Empedocle  also makes a convenient base for exploring the surrounding area, including the striking Scala dei Turchi cliffs and historic sites of Agrigento. 

Translating as ‘castle’ or ‘port’ in Arabic, Mazara looks directly out across the Strait of Sicily. This position is the exact reason it developed as a strategic focal point and crossroads for cultures that successively arrived here over the centuries. Mazara proudly shows the world its splendid historic centre, the Casbah, where Islamic philosophers and men of letters, judges and merchants once walked. 

Cruise across the Mediterranean to the northwestern coast of Africa and the clifftop village of Sidi Bou Said overlooking the Gulf of Tunis. Perched on steep cliffs, it is acclaimed for its quaint, whitewashed buildings adorned with vivid blue doors and windows draped with tumbling fuchsia bougainvillea. A haven for artists, writers and musicians, Sidi Bou Said is often compared to Santorini because of its similar striking architectural style and beauty.

Blessed with one of the most enchanting coastlines in Italy, Trapani is a serene side of Sicily. Located on the island’s western coast, it has a storied history as a trading port with influences from Greek, Roman, Arabic and Norman civilisations. Trapanis scenic setting, nestled between the sea and the nearby hills, offers visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. The city centre is characterised by narrow winding streets, Baroque architecture, and lively markets selling fresh seafood and local produce. Notable historic landmarks here include the 14th-century Castello di Terra and 17th-century Palazzo della Giudecca. 

Welcome to Palermo, a vibrant and historic city located on the northern coast of Sicily, renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant street markets. The island’s capital reveals a mix of cultures, including Italian, Arabic, and Norman influences, which is evident in its diverse architectural styles and cuisine. Palermos historic centre is a World Heritage-listed Site, brimming with beautiful churches, palaces and bustling squares. Palermo is also popular for its street food scene, with markets like Mercato Ballarò and Mercato Vucciria serving up a wide range of local specialties, such as arancini, panelle, and sfincione. 

Lipari is the largest and most populated of the Aeolian Islands, a volcanic archipelago off the coast of Sicily amid the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea. The stunning landscape is characterised by a rugged coastline, beautiful beaches lapped by crystal-clear waters, and lush vegetation. In the charming Old Town, explore the winding, narrow streets and alleys, a contrasting blend of pastel-hued, elegant townhouses and simple dwellings, as well as the 16th-century castle, which presents panoramic views of the surrounding area.  

Set on Sicily’s eastern shores, the picturesque town of Giardini Naxos offers stunning views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna – the fabled active volcano. This seaside town is known for its beautiful sandy beaches, clear blue waters, and vibrant waterfront promenade lined with restaurants, shops, and cafés. Giardini Naxos also harbours a rich history, with archaeological sites dating back to ancient times. Explore the remnants of Sicily’s earliest Greek settlement nearby and access to the Taormina Archaeological Park, which is nearby. It is also the gateway to the exclusive resort of Taormina, perched on the side of the mountain above. One of Italy’s most popular summer destinations, it draws the rich and famous from around the world to its luxury hotels and fine dining restaurants. 

Syracuse is an historic city nestled along the southeastern shores of Sicily, renowned for its ancient ruins, picturesque architecture and stunning waterfront views. Syracuses historical centre, Ortygia, is a charming island connected to the mainland by a series of bridges. Stroll through meandering narrow streets lined with Baroque-era buildings, visit the stunning Cathedral of Syracuse, and enjoy fresh seafood at one of the delightful waterfront restaurants.

Your luxurious yacht cruise concludes back in Malta and its compact yet charming capital city, Valletta. 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 Valletta after 12:00 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 stated above.