The Western Mediterranean has many regions to offer, from the beaches, coastlines and culture of Spain to the dazzling French and Italian Riviera scenes. This exquisite destination has drawn the most cosmopolitan of travelers since the beginning of time. The distinctiveness of these cruising grounds is unequalled anywhere for the experiences they offer.
The Cote d' Azur and North West Italy are the place to be seen, with glamorous boutiques, dazzling nightlife and special world class events that create a vibrant atmosphere. Combine that with secluded bays, historic towns and picturesque fishing villages and the Western Mediterranean is an ever popular destination for superb cruising.
There are cruising itineraries too numerous to mention but some of the more popular ones are listed below. The best cruising months are April to October.
Sample Itinerary - 8 Days
Cote d'Azur to Rome
Day 1. Join the yacht in the dazzling lights of Monaco, adorned with magnificent ancient architecture and affluence, it is the premier hotspot for a glamorous lifestyle.
Day2. Cruise to Cannes and anchor in the islands or take the tender ashore and have lunch or dinner at the famous Ritz Carlton.
Day 3 Enjoy lunch and join in the festivities and frivolities on the famous Nikki Beach. On your arrival in the sleek harbor of St Tropez you will be greeted with a vibrancy of markets, quayside cafes, winding streets full of glamorous shops and of course the high profile nightlife.
Day 4. Stop for lunch in the charming bay of Villefranche on your way to picturesque harbor of Portofino, renowned for its restaurants and striking beauty set amongst the hillsides.
Day 5. Cruise down the dramatic coastline of Cinqueterra dotted with pretty fishing villages and for the energetic you can go hiking between these 5 villages.
Day 6. Take an overnight cruise to Elba, the small island famous for being ruled by Napoleon for only 9 months, to enjoy its old buildings and anchor in its small inlets.
Day 7. Anchor off and enjoy the clear water of Giglio and bask in the sunset.
Day 8. Depart the yacht in Porto Santo Stefano a beautiful fishing village and enjoy the local seafood. From here it is just a short drive to Rome.
For a longer cruise you can discover the wild rocky red mountains and gorgeous bays and unspoiled harbors of Corsica.
Sample Itinerary - 7 days
Naples and Amalfi Coast
Day 1. Arrive in Naples and take a tour of the ancient buried city of Pompeii.
Day 2. Cruise to Ischia and relax in the thermal springs, or purchase some famous artisan ceramic pottery from the southernmost town of San Angelo.
Day 3. Anchor under the cliffs of Palmarola and swim through the caves in these crystal clear waters. Then cruise the coastal rock formations around Ponza and anchor for the evening and take a stroll through town.
Day 4-5 Head for the exciting island of Capri. Discover the famous Blue Grotto and explore the hillside town of Anacapri. At night, shop the fabulous boutiques and enjoy the freshest seafood at any of the acclaimed restaurants.
Day 6-7 Cruise along the stunning Amalfi Coast line dotted with cliff top residences draped in colorful bougainvillea. Enjoy superb food and wine in swanky restaurants in a spectacular setting.
Sardinia may be explored on a longer cruise. Known for its glamorous resort of Porto Cervo and the bay of Cala di Volpe, it also has secluded bays ideal for water sports and relaxation.
Sample Itinerary - 10 days
Spanish Coast and the Balearic Islands
Day 1-2 Join the yacht in Barcelona and discover Gaudis beautiful city. Wander through the museums and absorb yourself in the culture.
Day 3-4 Take an overnight cruise to Menorca and marvel at the limestone cliffs and drop anchor in one of the many ravines that open up onto white sandy beaches. Go ashore to the many archeological sites and charming cities.
Day 5-8 Cruise over to the largest of the Balearic islands, Mallorca. Beautiful beaches, tranquil secret hideaways, caves, dramatic mountains, shopping, restaurants and golf. A year round destination with something for everyone.
Day 8-10 Head over to Ibiza where the beaches are heavenly and the pace is slow during the day. At night get swept up in the atmosphere of the legendary nightlife or shop for fashions along the quaint streets.
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