Piraeus

Your journey begins in Greece in its dynamic capital, Athens. Rich in history, this ancient city is renowned as the birthplace of democracy and Western civilisation. From here, you’ll be transferred to your Emerald... Your journey begins in Greece in its dynamic capital, Athens. Rich in history, this ancient city is renowned as the birthplace of democracy and Western civilisation. From here, you’ll be transferred to your Emerald luxury yacht to embark on a memorable voyage exploring fascinating towns and extraordinary coastlines. Please book your flight to arrive into Athens prior to 02:00 PM. Read More

Delos

A small rocky island in the heart of the Cyclades archipelago, Delos is regarded as one of the most important mythological and archaeological sites in Greece. In the afternoon, you’ll continue to the world-famous island... A small rocky island in the heart of the Cyclades archipelago, Delos is regarded as one of the most important mythological and archaeological sites in Greece. In the afternoon, you’ll continue to the world-famous island of Mykonos, which captivates visitors with its blend of traditional Greek culture and cosmopolitan flair. Take a stroll through the winding, narrow streets of atmospheric Mykonos town to admire the trademark whitewashed dwellings fronted by distinctive blue doors. Be sure to also visit the historic windmills, another iconic sight on this popular island.   Read More

Mykonos

Although the fishing boats still go out in good weather, Mykonos largely makes its living from tourism these days. The summer crowds have turned one of the poorest islands in Greece into one of the richest. Old Mykonians complain that their young, who have inherited stores where their... Although the fishing boats still go out in good weather, Mykonos largely makes its living from tourism these days. The summer crowds have turned one of the poorest islands in Greece into one of the richest. Old Mykonians complain that their young, who have inherited stores where their grandfathers once sold eggs or wine, get so much rent that they have lost ambition, and in summer sit around pool bars at night with their friends, and hang out in Athens in winter when island life is less scintillating. Put firmly on the map by Jackie O in the 1960s, Mykonos town—called Hora by the locals—remains the Saint-Tropez of the Greek islands. The scenery is memorable, with its whitewashed streets, Little Venice, the Kato Myli ridge of windmills, and Kastro, the town's medieval quarter. Its cubical two- or three-story houses and churches, with their red or blue doors and domes and wooden balconies, have been long celebrated as some of the best examples of classic Cycladic architecture. Luckily, the Greek Archaeological Service decided to preserve the town, even when the Mykonians would have preferred to rebuild, and so the Old Town has been impressively preserved. Pink oleander, scarlet hibiscus, and trailing green pepper trees form a contrast amid the dazzling whiteness, whose frequent renewal with whitewash is required by law. Any visitor who has the pleasure of getting lost in its narrow streets (made all the narrower by the many outdoor stone staircases, which maximize housing space in the crowded village) will appreciate how its confusing layout was designed to foil pirates—if it was designed at all. After Mykonos fell under Turkish rule in 1537, the Ottomans allowed the islanders to arm their vessels against pirates, which had a contradictory effect: many of them found that raiding other islands was more profitable than tilling arid land. At the height of Aegean piracy, Mykonos was the principal headquarters of the corsair fleets—the place where pirates met their fellows, found willing women, and filled out their crews. Eventually the illicit activity evolved into a legitimate and thriving trade network. Morning on Mykonos town's main quay is busy with deliveries, visitors for the Delos boats, lazy breakfasters, and street cleaners dealing with the previous night's mess. In late morning the cruise-boat people arrive, and the shops are all open. In early afternoon, shaded outdoor tavernas are full of diners eating salads (Mykonos's produce is mostly imported); music is absent or kept low. In mid- and late afternoon, the town feels sleepy, since so many people are at the beach, on excursions, or sleeping in their air-conditioned rooms; even some tourist shops close for siesta. By sunset, people have come back from the beach, having taken their showers and rested. At night, the atmosphere in Mykonos ramps up. The cruise-boat people are mostly gone, coughing three-wheelers make no deliveries in the narrow streets, and everyone is dressed sexy for summer and starting to shimmy with the scene. Many shops stay open past midnight, the restaurants fill up, and the bars and discos make ice cubes as fast as they can. Ready to dive in? Begin your tour of Mykonos town (Hora) by starting out at its heart: Mando Mavrogenous Square. Read More

Crossing the Corinth Canal

On board your luxury yacht, you’ll pass through the 19th-century Corinth Canal, a slender waterway and feat of engineering that crosses the Isthmus of Corinth in Greece. This is a rare sailing experience, as few cruise vessels ca... On board your luxury yacht, you’ll pass through the 19th-century Corinth Canal, a slender waterway and feat of engineering that crosses the Isthmus of Corinth in Greece. This is a rare sailing experience, as few cruise vessels can navigate through this man-made canal. Cruise on to the small port of Itea, before embarking on a journey to Delphi, a World Heritage-listed archaeological site, regarded by the Ancient Greeks as the centre of the world.  Read More

Itea

Lefkáda Island

Known as the ‘Caribbean of Greece’, Lefkada is connected to the mainland by a narrow bridge, making it one of the few islands accessible by car. One of the most fascinating places on this beautiful island is the Castle of A... Known as the ‘Caribbean of Greece’, Lefkada is connected to the mainland by a narrow bridge, making it one of the few islands accessible by car. One of the most fascinating places on this beautiful island is the Castle of Agia Mavra, dating back to the 14th century and built to protect Lefkada from invaders. As well as soaking up the island’s natural beauty and centuries-old history, enjoy sampling the delicious local wines produced here.    Read More

Parga

On mainland Greece, the resort town of Parga radiates a carefree holiday atmosphere. Enjoy the Mediterranean sunshine on one of the many lovely beaches, wander through traditional Greek villages and marvel at the hilltop... On mainland Greece, the resort town of Parga radiates a carefree holiday atmosphere. Enjoy the Mediterranean sunshine on one of the many lovely beaches, wander through traditional Greek villages and marvel at the hilltop Venetian castle, with origins in the 11th century, which reveals an incredible bird’s-eye view of this popular town and sparkling Ionian coastline. From Parga, you’ll cruise Corfu, known for its sandy coves and rugged, verdant hills studded with olive, cypress, and citrus trees.  Read More

Corfu

Explore Corfu today, one of Greece’s largest and greenest islands. Explore authentic Greek villages and take a refreshing dip in the inviting, clear waters. Don’t miss a visit to... Explore Corfu today, one of Greece’s largest and greenest islands. Explore authentic Greek villages and take a refreshing dip in the inviting, clear waters. Don’t miss a visit to the picturesque UNESCO-listed Old Town, which harbours a rich history and magnificent heritage architecture displaying Renaissance and Baroque influences. Here, stroll through the largest square in Greece, the impressive Spianada and soak up the local ambience and history.  Read More

Sarandë

Today you’ll cruise the Straits of Corfu to Albania and Sarandë, a popular coastal town perched on a crescent-shaped bay. This once sleepy fishing village welcomes you with a bustling seaside promenade and&nbs... Today you’ll cruise the Straits of Corfu to Albania and Sarandë, a popular coastal town perched on a crescent-shaped bay. This once sleepy fishing village welcomes you with a bustling seaside promenade and pebbled beaches. Its relaxed atmosphere makes it a perfect base for exploring the nearby ancient ruins of Butrint, a World Heritage-listed Site renowned for its archaeological significance.  Read More

Kotor

Encircled by medieval walls, the fortified city of Kotor on Montenegro’s beautiful coastline is a fascinating port that seamlessly combines ancient history and vibrant modern culture. Nestled between imposing mountains and the Adriati... Encircled by medieval walls, the fortified city of Kotor on Montenegro’s beautiful coastline is a fascinating port that seamlessly combines ancient history and vibrant modern culture. Nestled between imposing mountains and the Adriatic Sea, the Old Town of Kotor, a World Heritage-listed site, is sure to charm with its elegant Venetian palaces, cobblestone narrow lanes and café-hemmed squares.   Read More

Vis Island

Set off the Croatian mainland, the charming Island of Vis was closed to visitors until 1989. Today, this historical background has given Vis a rare sense of tranquillity and authenticity. Its rocky coastline, azure waters and well... Set off the Croatian mainland, the charming Island of Vis was closed to visitors until 1989. Today, this historical background has given Vis a rare sense of tranquillity and authenticity. Its rocky coastline, azure waters and well-preserved Venetian architecture made Vis the ideal backdrop for the popular film, Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again in 2018. Read More

Dubrovnik

Welcome to the dazzling city of Dubrovnik on Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian Coast. Known as the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’, this World Heritage-listed city is renowned for its breathtaking architecture with red terracotta-... Welcome to the dazzling city of Dubrovnik on Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian Coast. Known as the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’, this World Heritage-listed city is renowned for its breathtaking architecture with red terracotta-tiled roofs and white stone walls contrasting against the turquoise waters that lap below. Read More

Dubrovnik

Your time aboard comes to an end. From your luxury yacht, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your journey home or to continue your holiday.Please book your flight to depart out of Dubrovnik after 11:00 AM.The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for... Your time aboard comes to an end. From your luxury yacht, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your journey home or to continue your holiday.Please book your flight to depart out of Dubrovnik after 11:00 AM.The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Emerald Cruises cannot guarantee the cruise will operated unaltered from the itinerary states above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information. Read More