The Cote D'Azur & Corsica: Nice to Rome

Embark on the Crystal Esprit at the port of Nice.

One of the most famous locales on the Côte d’Azur, celebrity jet setters and sun-seekers flock to these shores throughout the year. Nice is a hub for international commerce, but it’s the celebration of all things beautiful that reigns in this retreat for the world’s elite, making Nice an artists’ mecca for centuries. Open-air markets occur daily, providing access to the freshest local everything – from produce to lavender, handmade keepsakes to watercolor works painted before your eyes.

Today sail from Nice to St-Tropez.

A summer playground for celebrities, artists and writers vacationing here since the height of its popularity in the 1950s and 60s, St-Tropez’s famous beaches are still frequented by an international clientele who seek a lively nightlife and piece of the "St-Trop" allure. Magnificent yachts line the port, as owners vie to achieve titles the biggest, most luxurious or most enthusiastic crew.

Head from St-Tropez to Cannes.

One of nature's miracles, the Cote d’Azur is blessed with superb natural beauty. This sun-drenched slope stretches some 60 miles westward from the border of the fairy-tale Kingdom of Monaco. And here in glamorous Cannes, where yachts dot the harbor and chic striped sun loungers line the beach, be sure to take some time to explore the designer bars and couture shops of La Croisette.

Rivaling Portofino for the attentions of jet-set travelers, this charming cliffside town has grown from a fishing village into a bustling resort, infused with sunshine and the wealth of sybarites in search of the good life. Explore this Riviera playground to discover a pretty collection of cafés and venerable buildings with faded Trompe-l’oeil frescoes still adorning their walls.

Welcome to Corsica, a Mediterranean gem known for its white sandy beaches, dense forests, snow-capped mountains, and rolling countryside. A prosperous citadel town, Calvi sits atop a promontory surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Golfe de Calvi. Journey to Bonafacio in the south, or inland to see Les Calanches, a dramatic mountain landscape of red and orange granite renowned as one of Corsica’s most stunning natural sights.

True, Bonifacio has chic restaurants, bars, and cafés. Yes, it offers an array of water sports like surfing, jet skiing, and scuba diving. But what undoubtedly draws visitors from around the globe to this Corsican town is the startling Haute Ville, one of the world’s most visually spectacular sights. Here, tall and narrow medieval houses perch precariously on the edges of steep limestone cliffs, looking as if they are dangling above the sea. The steep walk up is worth it for the amazing views.

Today sail from Bonifacio to Porto Cervo.

In the heart of Sardinia’s legendary Costa Smeralda – so named for its jewel-toned waters – this jet-set yachting haven is a magical mix of sea, sun, music, and glee. Home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, this utopian town welcomes with posh boutiques and trendy cafés serving up Sardinia’s famed cuisine and local wines. Beyond the gleaming white mega-yachts dotting the harbor, Sardinia is home to a rich culture and UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Venture through Civitavecchia, noted for its fine seafood and beautiful monuments. Then, travel to the Eternal City of Rome, with more than 2,500 years of history and ancient landmarks that will leave you with memories for a lifetime.

After breakfast aboard the ship, disembark at Civitavecchia.