3 Islands Sicily, Sardinia & Corsica

Arrive in Valletta, Malta’s compact capital, founded in the 1500s by the Knights of St. John on a peninsula overlooking the Grand Harbor. Explore the walled city’s palaces, museums, and grand churches, and stroll through one of its gardens before boarding the Royal Clipper and setting sail for Gozo.

Arrive on Gozo, Malta’s green and rural sister island, said to be Calypso’s isle from Homer’s Odyssey. Explore the Knights’ watchtowers and tiny chapels, unwind on a quiet beach, or settle into the island’s slower pace, shaped by fishing and farming. Gozo is also one of the Mediterranean’s best-known diving destinations, with reefs, caves, and wrecks offshore.

Syracuse is a city on the Ionian coast of Sicily that's known for its ancient ruins. It was one of the most powerful cities of the ancient Greek world, bigger than Athens and Corinth, and as you can imagine, it's steeped in history. Visit Parco Archeologico della Neapolis, one of Sicily's greatest archaeological sites. Relax in one of its stylish little cafes that surround its beautiful baroque piazzas before wandering down its medieval lanes towards the sparkling blue sea.
 

The Aeolian archipelago is made up of 7 islands of volcanic origin, of which only Stromboli and Vulcano are still active volcanoes. The main island is Lipari, which offers travellers arriving by boat a beautiful panorama of its Acropolis, presided over by the Cathedral. Its marina is bustling with shops, boutiques and stalls... it's an island where life is good.

Known as the “Lighthouse of the Mediterranean,” Stromboli is one of the world’s most active volcanoes, rising dramatically from the sea in a perfect cone of black lava. As the ship sails in the surrounding waters, passengers gather on deck to watch the island’s smoking summit and the famous Sciara del Fuoco, where glowing ash and stones occasionally tumble down the slope. The volcano, and its gentle, frequent activity creates a mesmerizing natural spectacle. Whether at sunrise or sunset, sailing near Stromboli is an unforgettable moment of raw beauty and quiet awe.

On Sicily’s western coast, Trapani is a graceful port city where salt pans, sea breezes, and centuries of history blend in golden light. Passengers can explore the charming old town, with its baroque churches and bustling markets, or join an optional excursion to the medieval hilltop village of Erice (available at an additional cost). Reached by a scenic drive or cable car, Erice enchants with cobbled streets, stone houses, and sweeping views across the coast and the Egadi Islands. Whether exploring history, tasting Sicilian sweets, or strolling the seafront, Trapani offers a captivating blend of culture and coastal serenity.

Cagliari is the capital city of the Italian island of Sardinia. It's known for its hilltop Castello, a medieval walled quarter situated high above the rest of the town. It has a rich and varied heritage reflected in its buildings, which include Baroque churches, Medieval towers, Italian Art Nouveau, as well as Roman stonework. Sardinia's fabled beaches are also accessible, and as you would expect, the restaurants in and around the town are excellent too.
 

Tucked away on the small island of San Pietro, off the southwestern coast of Sardinia, Carloforte exudes Mediterranean charm and authenticity. Founded by Ligurian settlers in the 18th century, this colorful fishing town is known for its pastel houses, cobbled lanes, and seafaring traditions. Passengers can stroll along the waterfront promenade, enjoy freshly caught tuna at a local trattoria, or explore the island’s rugged coastline dotted with hidden coves. With its unique blend of Sardinian and Ligurian culture, warm hospitality, and tranquil atmosphere, Carloforte offers a delightful glimpse into a slower, more timeless rhythm of Italian island life.

Alghero is the main resort in the northwest of Sardinia and one of its most beautiful medieval cities. Its bustling historic center is packed with excellent bars and restaurants, making it a great place to hang out. It is also ideally placed for exploring the beaches of nearby Riviera del Corallo. Interestingly, a form of medieval Catalan is still spoken even though the Iberians left three centuries ago.

Sant'Amanza is considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches on the Island of Corsica. Located on its southernmost tip, it is surrounded by limestone cliffs, granite rocks and scrub, with sands lapped by crystal clear azure waters. It is a popular location for water sports including kite surfing.

Bonifacio, a magnificent town in the far south of Corsica, is renowned for its spectacular medieval architecture, impressive limestone cliffs and picturesque harbor. Nestling atop steep cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, Bonifacio offers breathtaking views of the crystal-clear waters and neighboring islands.

From his villa in Portoferraio, Napoleon, the exiled Emperor of France, looked out over the waiting ships in the harbor and dreamed of returning to glory. Enjoy a local vineyard tour, and near Portoferraio, discover the remains of an ancient Etruscan civilization.

Civitavecchia is an important seaport serving Rome, the Italian capital. As a key entry point for Mediterranean cruises and ferries crossing the Tyrrhenian Sea, Civitavecchia offers a gateway to a variety of destinations in Italy and beyond. The city is 70 km from Rome and 62 km to Fiumicino airport.