Destination Reviews
Duration
7 Nights
Journey Type
Cruise only (Please call for flight options)
Ports
9 Ports
11 June
Setting sail from Cannes
Few ports conjure up images of glitz and movie star glamour quite so readily as Cannes. Even if you find yourself unmoved by the ostentatious displays of wealth on show along the Croisette, where multi-million dollar yachts bob in the azure waters, you'll still find this stretch of the Côte d'Azur to be rich in natural beauty. May is when the glitterati roll into town for the Film Festival, but there's still plenty to divert you the rest of the year; Le Suquet, the old quarter, merits exploration, and the tranquil Îles de Lérins, just off the coast of Cannes, make for a relaxing day trip.
Our tip
Cannes is a great base to explore the Riviera and the back country. Travelling by rail is a good option and there are reduced fares for over 60s.
12 June
Monaco: Monte Carlo
Renowned for its casino, its Grand Prix and its oligarch-friendly tax policies, Monte Carlo is glamour and hedonism personified, with a price tag to match. This little principality enjoys a lovely setting, the villas and penthouses tumbling down the hillside towards the sweeping blue expanse of the Mediterranean.
13 June
France: L'Île-Rousse
L'Île-Rousse was founded by Corsican statesman Pasquale Paoli in 1758 as a rival to Genoese-controlled Calvi, and wandering the atmospheric streets of the old town is the main attraction. The town takes its name from the red rocks on which it sits, and we recommend worth walking up to the Île de Pedra lighthouse for the wonderful views.
14 June
France: Ajaccio
The attractive, oceanfront capital of Corsica was the birthplace of the island’s most famous son, Napoleon Bonaparte. You can find out more about the emperor at his childhood home, the Maison Bonaparte, which is now a museum.
15 June
France: Bonifacio
Bonifacio sits atop brilliant white limestone cliffs on the southern tip of Corsica, with the harbour down below filled with fishing boats and glitzy yachts. The town's history as a Genoese stronghold, along with its proximity to Sardinia, means that the Italian influence is strong here.
16 June
France: Casabianda Beach (Aleria, Corsica)
16 June
France: Bastia
The bustling port of Bastia provides a more authentic slice of Corsican life than glitzy Calvi or Bonifacio, and the compact historic core, the Terra Vecchia, has bags of character. The photogenic old harbour, the Vieux Port, is another popular spot, surrounded by lively bars and restaurants.
17 June
Italy: Portoferraio (Elba)
The island of Elba, just off the Tuscan coast, is where Napoleon Bonaparte was famously forced to live in exile between 1814-15. It’s hard to feel too sorry for him, though; the views from his plush Villa dei Mulini, situated high above the town of Portoferraio, are quite spectacular.
18 June
Arriving in Rome (Civitavecchia)
One of the world's great cities, Rome continues to dazzle and delight visitors with a potent mix of architectural marvels, continent-defining history and buzzing nightlife. As the saying goes, the city wasn't built in a day, and if you want to make the most of Rome you'll need to spend at least a couple of nights here. The Colosseum, the Vatican and the Forum are among the big ticket items, with the crowds to match, though in truth you will find history around almost every corner.
Don't miss
The Via Appia - this ancient Roman road is now part of a national park, and closed to car traffic on Sundays. Take a picnic, stroll, and visit the extraordinary catacombs.
Your home from home
True clipper ships, these beautiful four-masted vessels reflect a proud seafaring heritage in their elegant sails, warm woods and polished brass.
What we love
Sister ships Star Clipper and Star Flyer certainly stand out from the crowd. In full sail they are an awe-inspiring sight, reminiscent of a bygone age, yet combining this tradition with the comfort of a modern cruise line, ideal for those who wish to experience a tall ship cruise. Climb the mast or relax by the small pool; you can be as involved as you wish on these easy-going and friendly ships.
| Capacity | 170 Guests |
|---|---|
| Crew | 74 Staff |
| Style | Friendly, welcoming staff help make this an informal and relaxed style of cruise. |
| Inclusions |
|
Tailor-make your trip
Ways to make it better
Where to stay in Cannes
Some great options, but we think the ultimate is the Martinez, with its large private beach and double Michelin starred restaurant.
Private tours from Cannes
Visit the perfume centre at Grasse and design your very own fragrance.
Extend your stay in Rome
There are so many great hotels but we particularly love the Campo de’ Fiori, for its great location in the centre of everything.
Beat the queues
Get a private guide to help you jump the queues into the Vatican who can whizz you through the galleries to see the essentials and ensure your best view of the Sistine Chapel.
