Boutique cruise along Malta, Italian coast, Nice and Corsica

Day 1: Valletta

The entire Maltese capital of Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site: from the fountain of the Tritons to the Saint-Elme fortress, there are as many majestic streets as there are narrow staircases to explore. Embarkation is possible yes from 4 to 5 p.m. and the boat departs at 6 p.m.

Day 2: Gozo

Located north of Malta, the small island of Gozo is a lot less urbanized than its bigger brother and is protected from mass tourism. The island has managed to remain natural and authentic. Lush hills and valleys are interspersed with a mosaic of fields. The buildings, some of which are medieval, are constructed of honey-colored limestone and blend perfectly with the surrounding landscape. Gozo also has a unique historic site that is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site: the megalithic temples of Ggantija near the town of Xaghra. An archaeological museum next to the site presents some of the artifacts found there. Red sand beaches and a crystal clear sea add to Gozo's peace and serenity. You can participate in excursion discovering maritime history at the Xlendi Underwater Archaeological Park . There are several additional excursions available on the island from visiting the temples and salt pans to wine tasting.

Day 3: Syracuse, Sicily

The undulating rocky coast, the endless sandy beaches, Mount Etna overlooking the island like a patriarch, the flowery gardens on the hills.... Sicily presents its varied landscapes like a shopkeeper displays his wares. Syracuse, described by Cicero as "the most beautiful city in the world," was one of Sicily's most prestigious cities and at its height was even a rival to Athens. As the central city of ancient Greece, it was home to a succession of civilizations, each of which left its mark. The mix of Arab, Roman, Norman, Byzantine and Spanish cultures makes Syracuse a city extraordinarily rich in scents, colors and flavors.

Day 4: Stromboli

In the early morning you sail in front of the jagged volcano Stromboli, the lighthouse of the Mediterranean. You will enjoy the facilities on the ship today.

Day 5: Porto Ercole

With its landscapes of rolling hills covered with lush meadows, narrow streets lined with colorful houses and quaint paths shaded by pine trees.... Porto Ercole is a concentration of all the beauty Tuscany has to offer. And what would it be without a fascinating, mysterious history? On the Monte Argentario peninsula, you might have the chance to meet the fishermen of the Orbetello Lagoon or local wine, olive oil and cheese producers. For our sports enthusiasts, the surrounding wild and unspoiled nature offers the opportunity to hike along the island's heights to enjoy breathtaking views.

Day 6: Giglio

Giglio is a small island that holds all the secrets and beauty of Tuscany. Fine sandy beaches and hidden coves form a landscape where the emerald green sea serves as a backdrop for the wild nature. Stroll past pine forests and vineyards or visit the medieval village of Giglio Castello.

Day 7: Portofino

Near the Cinque Terre lies Portofino, the pearl of the Ligurian Riviera. today a beautiful, lively little port that has managed to preserve the authenticity of its maritime traditions. The village is built in the hollow of a small natural cove, sheltered by the pine forest, and lies in the heart of a protected maritime reserve. The shimmering colors of the facades and the exceptional location of this village have inspired many writers and artists. The Portofino lighthouse is also not to be missed.

Day 8: Portoferraio, Elba

As you approach the coastline, you will see the powerful and majestic outline of the Medici fortresses in Portoferraio. Napoleon Bonaparte spent many of his days in exile here. The Palazzina dei Mulini, his first imperial residence, whose gardens offer stunning views of the sea, is a must-see. Historical treasures are followed by another kind of treasures, namely white sandy beaches and equally tempting local specialties such as gurguglione and rice with squid ink.

Day 9: Saint-Florent, Corsica

Located in one of the Mediterranean's most beautiful bays, Saint-Florent is an ancient city whose citadel dominates the bay. A link between the mountains of Upper Corsica and the Agriates desert, the fishing village has become a well-known seaside resort.

Day 10: Calvi, Corsica

Nestled on a rocky spur in northwestern Corsica, the port of Calvi offers its whiteness between two sapphire-colored bays. From the promontory of the Notre-Dame-de-la-Serra chapel, contemplate the sublime panorama of the sea, the mountains and the citadel of Calvi. A little further west, you have the opportunity to discover the peninsula of Revelatta, a wilder and more preserved part of Corsica.

Day 11: Nice, Côte d'Azur

On your last day, you will arrive in Nice, Côte d'Azur. Disembarkation is at 8 in the morning. You will probably want to explore the Promenade des Anglais, where you can sit on one of the famous blue chairs set up across from the baie des Anges. The hill of the Château is also a pleasant place to stroll. This is the entrance to the old town, with its busy markets and regional produce along the main street, the Cours Saleya. A nice place to end your trip.