Longing For La Dolce Vita

Departure 7:00 pm

This strategically important location has always attracted foreign conquerors. More than 7,000 years ago, a civilisation existed here, leaving behind enormous temple complexes. Just like proud Valletta, these are now UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Jean Parisot de la Valette, Grand Master of the Order of St John, founded a modern fortified city on a rock in 1566, between the two splendid natural ports of Marsamxett and Grand harbor. Long rows of facades made from golden-yellow blocks of chalk stretch along the straight streets. Splendid Renaissance and Baroque buildings are evidence of riches and power, such as the Palace of the Grand Master and the impressive St John's Co-Cathedral.

Climbing the rigging, untying ropes, setting sails – today is all about sailing. Time to lean back and relax in the deck chair and watch the passionate crew hoisting the sails by hand.

Arrival 8:00 am, Departure 7:00 pm

The old town and port of Trapani lies on a picturesque crescent-shaped headland at the foot of Monte Erice. You will discover many little treasures browsing through the beautiful town center. For the last 1,000 years, fine black and red coral jewellery has been made here. The mountain town of Erice is a real architectural gem. Not far from Tapani, this idyllic little town is tucked away in a picturesque hilltop setting overlooking the countryside and the sea. Protected defiantly by a wall, the town retains its splendid medieval atmosphere.

Arrival 8:00 am, Departure 11:00 pm

The character of Palermo, Sicily's vibrant capital, was mainly forged by the Arabs, Swabian dynasty and Normans. Noble palaces line the magnificent streets, cheerful-looking Art Nouveau houses stand next to Baroque buildings and a little further on you are faced with pure Gothic facades. The medieval quarter towers above the huge Palazzo Reale with its "Capella Palatina", a masterpiece in the Arab-Byzantine-Norman style. The small mountain town of Monreale gives you a breathtaking view over the town and the bay, as well as the 12th century cathedral whose interior combines Romanesque, Byzantine and Arab art with rich gold mosaics.

Arrival 1:30 pm, Departure 6:00 pm

Lipari is a tranquil little spot and the largest of the Aeolian Islands, with a cultural heritage stretching back over 6,000 years. Right from first glance you can see its volcanic heritage, with some of the rock formations resembling sculptures, and the entire group of islands is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Aeolian Museum is set on the castle hill and holds an impressive collection of prehistoric and ancient artefacts from this volcanic group of islands. You will find the southern Italian way of life in this little port infectious.

Arrival 7:00 am, Departure 2:00 pm

Taormina is perched on a rock with a majestic view over the sea. In the 19th century, this small town had already developed into a dream destination for well-heeled travellers and artists. The town's fascination lies in its elegance, the many ancient buildings, the stunningly beautiful coastline, the mild climate, and the view over the silhouette of Etna. Europe's largest volcano is over 9,843 feet high, has four summit craters and around 400 subsidiary craters, and is covered with snow almost all year round. In ancient times it was considered the seat of the gods, but nowadays large sections of it are a nature reserve.

Arrival 04:00 pm, Departure 11:00 pm

The beautifully curving Amalfi Coast, which meanders along the starkly protruding Sorrento peninsula, has been listed as a UNESCO world heritage site. In the pretty little town of Amalfi, whose history as an influential maritime republic is still clear to see, a dense labyrinth of pastel-colored houses clings to the rocky coastline. Boasting three naves, the beautiful 10th century cathedral with an enchanting cloister, colorful marble façade, Arabic-Norman campanile and magnificent steps leading to the lively Piazza Duomo is the heart of this small coastal town.

Arrival 8:00 am

Naples rises from the sea around a huge bay and extends up into the hills like an amphitheatre. From the Castello Sant' Elmo on the Vomero you can enjoy a fantastic view over the sea of houses, the port and the Gulf. The pretty center of this chaotic Campanian city is the old town, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its huge fortresses, dignified churches and monasteries, splendid squares and palaces, and maze of winding streets.