Civitavecchia is a major port located in Rome, primarily utilized for maritime transportation of goods, as well as a fishing port. The commune’s name means “ancient town” and is one of the “Motorways of the Sea” in the Mediterranean, functioning as one of the main links between the mainland of Italy and Sardinia. The ancient name of the port was “Centumcellae,” first mentioned in a letter written by Pliny the Younger in 107 A.D., although scholars debate on whether the name was about the number of rooms of the Trajan Villa or the number of natural creeks on the coast. Civitavecchia is a part of the Lazio Territory, an area which was confirmed to have social groups since pre-historic times, and the modern town was built over a pre-existing settlement of the Etruscan people in 107-108 B.C.E. (who debated to have founded Rome). At the beginning of the 2nd century, the harbor and town of Centumcellae were simultaneously developed by Emperor Trajan in the territory of Aquae Tauri. As the town became more popular for ships traveling westbound, the Thermal Baths were constructed on the hill of Ficoncella. Centumcellae flourished in the Imperial Age, and by 538 A.D., it had become a Byzantine stronghold. In 728 A.D., it became a member of the Papal States. The Saracens raided Centumcellae many times in the 9th century, prompting Pope Leo VII to have a newer and more secure settlement built by 854. The town, then known as Civita Vetula, was under the rule of several lords, and the Popes temporarily lost control during the French Rule in 1798-1815. In 1870 it entered the Kingdom of Italy. Civitavecchia was severely damaged during WWII, destroying many of the ancient monuments including Forte Michelangelo, which would be rebuilt in the 1950s. Popular points of interest include the Forte Michelangelo, Terme Taurine, and Cattedrale di San Francesco. There is a wealth of Roman and Vatican architecture and tourists are encouraged to visit many of the museums and take the cultural tours available in this important seaport.

Bonifacio is one of the favorite ports in this area! As the ship approaches, the Captain navigates along the limestone cliffs giving guests a sea view of incredible Bonifacio as well as the great Aragon steps leading to the water’s edge. Shortly after the pilot embarks and the Captain turns the yacht around and back into this very impressive fjord-like marina. This could be one of the highest-rated arrivals as the guests always find it both impressive and awe-inspiring.   

Portoferraio is a beautiful town in the province of Livorno, Tuscany, on the northern coast of Elba Island. SeaDream generally docks just steps away from the main street Via Garibaldi and offers a guided walk of this very historical town called “Walking the Napoleon Trail”. The first site is the Town Hall, proceeding northeast on Via Napoleone, the Misericordia church, in which a mass is said for Napoleon’s soul on May fifth every year. The highest point of the town is the Piazza Napoleone, from which there are beautiful views. To the west rises Forte Falcone (79m/261ft), to the east, above the lighthouse, Forte Stella (48m/158ft), both originally built in 1548 and later completed by Napoleon. On the seaward side of the square is the simple Villa dei Molini. This is believed to be Napoleon’s official residence, which contains his library. The island offers so much more than just the main city; there’s some incredible wine and several other towns to explore. To help make the most of your visit to the island, this is a perfect land adventure for you – “Elba Vistas, Villages & Wine”. If neither sparks your interest, you can borrow one of the mountain bikes to explore the island – the recommended route would be to visit Porto Azzuro.

Disembark at Civitavecchia in the morning.