Italy, Montenegro, Albania & Croatia

Venice stands as the heart and soul of romance. Admire the rounded domes of San Marco, pause at the Bridge of Sighs, and gaze upon the golden lions and Renaissance splendors of the Doge's Palace. Listen for the echoes of Verdi, Puccini, and Caruso at La Fenice Opera House, or marvel at the classic Palladian proportions of the Church of San Giorgio Maggiore. Glide down the Grand Canal in a gondola and experience the romance that fills the air.

Discover Losinj, known as the "Island of Vitality" for its favorable climate, rich biodiversity, and enduring legacy of health tourism. Stroll through the old town of Mali Losinj to step back in time, wandering among stone houses, historic residences with lush gardens, intimate squares, and winding staircases. Visit the famous Cikat Bay, framed by thick vegetation and often cited as the most beautiful bay on the Adriatic.

Sibenik, Croatia, is a charming coastal town on the Adriatic Sea known for its rich history and stunning architecture. The town is home to the UNESCO-listed St. James Cathedral, a masterpiece of Renaissance art. With its narrow, winding streets and sea views, Sibenik offers a blend of medieval charm and beautiful coastal scenery, making it a popular destination in Croatia.

The heavenly scent of lavender perfumes the air in the fields and valleys around the island of Hvar. Idyllically located just off the Dalmatian Coast, the island and the little port named after it have been a favorite getaway ever since the time of the Romans, the Byzantines, the Venetians and even Austro-Hungarian royalty.

This stunning rock-walled chasm splitting the coastal mountains of Montenegro is the longest arm of the sea in southern Europe. Boka harbors the medieval city of Kotor, one of the prettiest, unspoiled towns you have ever seen. Founded by the Romans, fortified during the Byzantine era, and then ruled by Venice for much of its history, Kotor has been naturally preserved by its isolation.

Set on a sun-drenched bay overlooking the Ionian Sea, Saranda is Albania’s most elegant coastal resort - and a gateway to two of the country’s greatest treasures. Passengers can enjoy the relaxed waterfront atmosphere or join optional excursions (available at an additional cost) to explore the UNESCO-listed ancient city of Butrint, rich in Greek and Roman ruins, or the beautifully preserved Ottoman town of Gjirokastër, famed for its stone houses and hilltop fortress. Whether discovering history or simply soaking up the Adriatic sun, Saranda offers a fascinating blend of culture, scenery, and Mediterranean charm.

Each Star Clippers ship offers a traditional and elegant way to see the world. Feel the wind fill the sails and gently carry you from one gorgeous destination to the next. During your time on board, you can choose to relax on a sun lounger or cool off in one of the pools on the top deck, while more adventurous passengers may enjoy the opportunity to climb the rigging or even have a go at steering the ship. Alternatively, you can wander the interior areas of the ship and discover relaxing lounges, a revitalizing spa, and a peaceful library.

Syracuse is a city on the Ionian coast of Sicily known for its ancient ruins. It was once the largest city in the 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 surrounding its beautiful baroque piazzas before wandering down its medieval lanes towards the sparkling blue sea.

The Aeolian archipelago comprises seven islands of volcanic origin, of which only Stromboli and Vulcano are active volcanoes. The main island is Lipari, which offers travelers arriving by boat a beautiful panorama of its Acropolis, presided over by the Cathedral. Its marina is bustling with shops, boutiques, and stalls, and 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 last erupted significantly in 2019, 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.

Sorrento, whose city walls rise straight out of the sea, is located on the lovely Amalfi Coast and overlooks the Bay of Naples. Optional excursions might include taking a trip back in history to Pompeii, where the ashen remains of ancient Romans lie frozen in time.

The pastel houses of Ponza Town rise in neat terraced rows from the busy harbor, where sleekly groomed yachts and ramshackle fishing boats moor side by side. Happily, there are few tourists here, so it's a delight to wander through the unspoiled town.

Palmarola is a snorkeling heaven part of a group called The Pontine Islands, located off the coast between Rome and Naples. A craggy landscape with pink coral beaches and emerald coves beckons, so don't forget your swimsuit and flippers. Unique, isolated, and stunning.

Disembark after breakfast and continue your independent trip back home.