Colourful Cliffside Towns of the Amalfi Coast

Synonymous with Spain, the delicious paella rice dish originated in Valencia and was originally known as arroz a la Valencia, which takes its name from the pan it is cooked in, typically large, round and shallow. Believed to have been created in the 15th century for Valencian farmers working in the rice fields using ingredients local to their surroundings; nowadays it is popular with chicken or seafood. Close by is Albufera Natural Park – an important stopover for migratory birds.

An iconic Ibiza beach, Benirras is renowned for its cove of white sand, with turquoise seas and craggy rocks that surround the bay – the perfect setting for sunsets and sunrises on the White Island. It’s also possible to see Cape Bernat, a rocky islet set out to sea from Benirras Beach, and the subject of countless legends, where it’s known locally as ‘the finger of God’, guardian of the sunset, or Es Cavall Bernat, translated as ‘the horse Bernat’.

Located on the east coast of Menorca, Mahón is the largest city on the island and has a maze of narrow streets lined with Georgian architecture, including buildings with sash windows and balconies. The city has a sheltered harbour, full of islets and coves, which are home to the protected Mediterranean pillow coral.

Positioned on the island’s south-west coast at the head of the Valinco Gulf, Propriano is a traditional Corsican town, with a charming harbour and marina area. There are many 19th century buildings in the town, along with remains from Roman and Greek settlements. Close by is the scenic town of Sartene, with houses so tall they seem to be carved from the rockface, but also renowned for its highly rated wine, of which Rose is the most popular.

The charming city of La Spezia, located on the Ligurain coast of Italy, offers a colourful blend of maritime heritage, natural beauty and culture. Known for its strategic maritime importance, the naval base here was reconstructed after it was decimated in World War Two, and still produces naval warships for the Italian Navy. The tranquil bay in La Spezia is known as the “Gulf of Poets”, and has inspired many writers and poets, including Lord Byron and Mary Shelley. The city is also gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cinque Terre, with its beautifully coloured villages perched on rugged cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

Some of the best moments of cruising are the days spent at sea where you can relax and enjoy the wonderful programme of events and activities we have planned for you.

Perfectly located between the Amalfi Coast and Cilento National Park, Salerno is an often overlooked destination in the Campania region. With centuries of rich history, influenced by the Romans, Goths and Byazantines, there are many churches and authentic trattorias laced through the towns narrow cobbled streets. The 11th century cathedral in Salerno is the city’s most important church, and has an abundance of artefacts dedicated to Saint Matthew, with stunning artwork on its ceilings and walls.

Best known for having one of the most iconic coastlines in Italy, and listed as a UNESCO Heritage Site in 1997, the Amalfi Coast is painted with rocky shores, golden beaches and picture-perfect towns perched at the top of craggy cliffs, which when cruised past during the eveningtime, throws beautiful shadows and sunset light across the region. Passing the island of Capri, the Roman Imperial Palace Ruins of Villa Jovis are perched on a high peninsula, and the island of Procida has remained untouched for many years, allowing it to hold on to its rustic charm.

The southern Italian city of Naples dates to the 2nd millennium BC, and boasts centuries of volcanic drama, art and architecture all robustly perched on the Bay of Naples. Go beyond the ruggedness and a city of breathtaking frescoes, elegant sculptures and superb panoramas can be uncovered. Naples’ centro storico (historic centre) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its cache of archaeological treasures are among the most important globally. The Duomo di San Gennaro cathedral is filled with sublime frescoes, while the lavish Royal Palace and Castel Nuovo ensure a spot for Italy’s third largest city on any must-see list.

Sorrento’s rugged cliffs line the Amalfi Coast above the topaz-hued waters, where it is possible to see Capri Island and Mount Vesuvius across the Bay of Naples. Many of the town’s structures date back to Roman times, including St. Francis Monastery and the Basilica di Sant’Antonio. Nearby is Pompeii, the best-preserved ancient Roman city in the world, famously destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79AD.

The coastal port of Civitavecchia is gateway to the Eternal City of Rome, so named because ancient Romans believed that no matter what happened to the world, the city would go on forever. Alongside the many inviting trattoria in Rome, there are many deeply historical structures, including the imposing Colosseum, Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain. From Rome, the holy Vatican City is easily accessible and is home to His Holiness, the Pope.