Boutique cruise from Tarragona to Barcelona: island hopping across Corsica, Sardinia and Mallorca

Day 1: Starting the journey in Roman Tarragona

Your holiday begins on Spain’s Costa Dorada. Tarragona is famous for its impressive and beautifully preserved Roman heritage, which is rightfully listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Have some spare time? Be sure to head into the historic centre for a walk past the 14th-century cathedral, or visit the seaside Roman amphitheatre. You can embark and settle into your cabin between 16:00 and 17:00. At 18:30, the ship sets sail as you head into the sunset.

Day 2: Exploring the canals of Sète and tasting Languedoc wines

Around midday, you arrive in Sète, often referred to by locals as the 'Venice of Languedoc' due to its charming canals. Today, you will set course for the vineyards of the Languedoc for a wine tasting experience. Sète is also the perfect base from which to discover the rich history of Occitanie, with historic gems such as Narbonne and the medieval citadel of Carcassonne within easy reach.

Day 3: Discovering historic Marseille or sampling le panier & pastis

Early in the morning, you dock in Marseille, France’s oldest port city. Today, you can choose between two fantastic included excursions. Will you wander through the colourful, narrow streets of the historic Le Panier district, combined with a visit to the iconic Mucem and a traditional pastis? Or will you opt for Iconic Marseille, visiting the impressive Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde Basilica and learning how the famous Marseille soap is made? The choice is yours!

Day 4: Soaking up culture in Calvi or strolling through authentic Corsican villages

You reach Corsica. In the early morning, you sail into the Bay of Calvi, where the white citadel stands out strikingly against the blue waters. An included excursion is planned for today. Will you go for a guided walking tour through Calvi’s rich history, or do you prefer to venture inland past the authentic, old villages of the Balagne region? It is entirely up to you!

Day 5: Following in Napoleon’s footsteps or tasting local delicacies in Ajaccio

Today you wake up in Ajaccio, the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte. During the included excursion, you will discover why Ajaccio is called the 'Imperial City' as you walk past the citadel and through the old town centre. Or will you choose a gastronomic outing focused on honey and a traditional Corsican spuntinu? In any case, do not forget to stroll over the market on Place Foch to sample local delicacies such as brocciu, lonzu, or canistrelli. In the evening, you set sail towards Sardinia.

Day 6: Catching the breeze on medieval ramparts or discovering prehistoric Nuraghe in Alghero

Welcome to Sardinia! Early in the morning, you moor in charming Alghero, where the Catalan influence will almost make you feel like you are in Spain. Today, the choice is yours once again: will you opt for a stroll along the medieval city walls? Or will you combine a visit to Alghero with an exploration of the prehistoric Nuraghe?

Day 7: Visiting the mountain village of Valldemossa or admiring art in Palma de Mallorca

Around noon, you arrive in Mallorca. Two lovely included excursions await you. You can choose a visit to the charming mountain village of Valldemossa, surrounded by olive and almond groves. Or choose a cultural afternoon visiting the Fundació Miró Mallorca and the sights of Palma. At the end of the day, you set sail back to the mainland.

Day 8: Disembarkation in Barcelona and extending your stay

In the early morning, the ship enters the port of Barcelona. After a final breakfast on board, disembarkation begins around 08:00. From here, we can arrange your airport transfer for your flight home, or you can choose to extend your trip in one of our boutique hotels in the city.

What budget should you expect?

For this unique experience, you can expect a price starting from 4800 euros per person, flights included. Exact costs vary based on your preferences and the period in which you travel.

Frequently asked questions about this boutique cruise

Is this trip suitable as a first cruise?

Absolutely. This is a small-scale boutique cruise on a comfortable ship that stays far away from mass tourism. The focus is entirely on culture, local gastronomy, and beautiful destinations, without the crowds or overwhelming entertainment of traditional mega cruise ships.

What about stability at sea?

You will sail through the Western Mediterranean, staying relatively close to the coastlines of France, Corsica, Sardinia, and Mallorca. This keeps your route sheltered, meaning you won't experience much of the open ocean swells. Additionally, the ship is equipped with modern stabilisers that absorb any movement perfectly to ensure a comfortable and smooth voyage.

What clothing should I pack?

Opt for comfortable, casual clothing and good walking shoes for city visits and excursions ashore. On board, the atmosphere is relaxed yet stylish ('casual chic'). A light jacket, scarf, or windbreaker is always handy for when you want to enjoy the sea breeze and sunset on deck in the evening.

Are the excursions in the cities accompanied by a guide?

Yes, on several included outings you will be accompanied by an expert. In Corsica, a guided walk through Calvi is on the agenda, and in Ajaccio, you will follow in Napoleon's footsteps during a tour along the citadel or through the old town.