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Corso Vittorio Emanuele in the historic center of Trapani, Sicily, Italy

3 Islands Malta, Sicily & Corsica

Valletta - Civitavecchia - Example 10 Day Cruise aboard Royal Clipper
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Embark on a 10-day cruise sailing from Valletta, Malta’s walled capital, to Civitavecchia, the port for Rome, aboard the Royal Clipper. Start on Gozo, Malta’s rural sister island, then explore Syracuse's Neapolis Archaeological Park. Continue to Taormina, perched on the slopes of Mount Etna, and sail through the Strait of Messina to Lipari in the Aeolian Islands. From Trapani, wander the baroque old town or ride up to hilltop Erice on an optional excursion. After a day at sea, reach Corsica for a beach stop at Sant’Amanza and a visit to Bonifacio, set atop limestone cliffs. Then swim and snorkel at L’Arinella beach before exploring the colorful harbor town of Bastia. Finish in Civitavecchia.
Civitavecchia, the historic port city that opens the gateway to Rome. Taormina port with planters seen commonly around Sicily Bastia (Old town), Corsica, France Stop in beautiful Malta Bonifacio, Corsica, France Fortress on Gozo, Malta where Count of Monte Cristo was filmed Explore ruins in Taormina within view of volcanic Mount Etna Corso Vittorio Emanuele in the historic center of Trapani, Sicily, Italy

Highlights

  • Visit the Knights’ watchtowers and tiny chapels of rural Gozo
  • Discover the Neapolis Archaeological Park in the ancient city of Syracuse
  • Stroll the hillside town of Taormina on the slopes of Mount Etna
  • Sail through the Strait of Messina past legendary Scylla and Charybdis

Activities

Places Visited

Activity Level: Variable

Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.

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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Valletta, Malta | Embark

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.

Day 2: Gozo, Malta

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.

Day 3: Syracuse, Sicily, Italy

Syracuse is a city on Sicily's Ionian coast, 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 that surround its beautiful baroque piazzas before wandering down its medieval lanes towards the sparkling blue sea.

Day 4: Taormina, Sicily, Italy

Barreling under full sail through the narrow Strait of Messina past Scylla and Charybdis, where rock and whirlpool almost claimed Ulysses, you arrive in lovely Taormina. Perched on the shoulder of Mt. Etna, Taormina inspired Goethe to say that'It is the greatest work of art and nature.'

Day 5: Lipari, Aeolian Islands, Italy

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.

Day 6: Trapani, Sicily, Italy

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.

Day 7: At Sea

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 (Royal Clipper only) and a peaceful library.

Day 8: Sant'Amanza Beach | Bonifacio, Corsica, France

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.

Day 9: L'Arinella Beach | Bastia, Corsica, France

L'Arinella beach in eastern Corsica is known for its golden sand and clear waters, making it a picturesque spot for relaxation. Surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation, it offers activities like swimming and snorkeling. The tranquil atmosphere and stunning sunsets over the Tyrrhenian Sea make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

The most important town in northern Corsica, with its narrow streets, colorful buildings and lively Mediterranean atmosphere, Bastia offers a unique blend of traditional charm and urban dynamism. Its harbor is the historic heart of the city, where traditional boats rub shoulders with numerous restaurants and cafés.

Day 10: Civitavecchia (Port for Rome), Italy | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
Disembark after breakfast and continue your independent trip back home.

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.

Ship/Hotel

Royal Clipper

Royal Clipper exterior

Royal Clipper

The Royal Clipper is the largest full-rigged sailing ship in the world, carrying just 227 privileged guests aboard. She offers the ultimate tall ship sailing experience, balancing the grandeur, adventure, and tradition of sailing with the superb service, amenities, and accommodations of the finest modern yacht. .
Water Sports on the Royal Clipper
Royal Clipper interior stairs

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

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Per person starting at
$3,630 2-3 travelers
Royal Clipper Cabin
Category 6
Located on the Clipper Deck, this inside cabin features double beds, a marble bathroom with shower and is 108 sq. ft. There is one 97 sq. ft dedicated solo cabin as well.
Royal Clipper Cabin
Category 5
Located on the Commodore Deck, this outside cabin features a double bed, a marble bathroom with shower and is 118 sq. ft.
Royal Clipper Cabin Category 4
Category 4
Located on the Clipper & Commodore Decks, this outside cabin features twin/double/triple beds, a marble bathroom with shower and is 150 sq. ft.
Royal Clipper Cabin Category 3
Category 3
Located on the Clipper & Commodore Decks, this outside cabin features twin/double/triple beds, a marble bathroom with shower and is 150 sq. ft.
Royal Clipper Cabin Category 2
Category 2
Located on the Clipper Deck, this superior outside cabin features twin/double/triple beds, a marble bathroom with shower and is 150 sq. ft.
Royal Clipper Cabin
Category 1
Located on the Main Deck, this deluxe deck cabin features double beds, minibar, marble bathroom with whirlpool, cabin doors that open onto deck and is 226 sq. ft.
Royal Clipper Cabin
Deluxe Suite
Located on the Main Deck, this deluxe outside suite features a private verandah, twin/double beds, sitting area, minibar, marble bathroom with whirlpool, room service and is 225 sq. ft.
Royal Clipper Cabin
Owner's Suite
Located on the Clipper Deck, this deluxe outside suite features two double beds (sleeps 2-4 guests), separate sitting area, minibar, marble bathroom with whirlpool, room service and is 450 sq. ft.

Notes

Single supplement: A single supplement fare is available at 150% of the published cruise fare for categories 2-6 during the season in which passengers are traveling. It is available at 200% for category 1 cabins, Deluxe Suites, and Owner's Suites. Single space is capacity controlled.

Children's rate: Savings may be available for children under 18 years when traveling with a full-paying adult on select sailings and subject to availability. Contact us for details.
Included
  • 9 Breakfasts, 8 Lunches, 9 Dinners

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Kate was great to work with in the planning stage. She was prompt, helpful, and efficient. Our tour guide, Edwin, was knowledgeable and passionate. We were very happy to have traveled with Adventure Life, it made the trip easy and a true pleasure. We could concentrate on enjoying the experience rather than the details of travel.
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The ship was beautiful. I loved being able to swim off the platform! Great food, good drinks, great atmosphere. The staff is wonderful as well.
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5 months ago
This is a fabulous, very upscale sailing experience. Star Clipper is a tall clipper ship with masts and sails. You actually feel the waves and the movement of the ship. You get to see and experience the excitement of the raising and lowering of the sails depending on the winds. The ships hold only about 150 people so the experience is nothing like regular cruise ships that carry thousands of passengers. The small number of passengers allow you to get to know people and make friends.
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I wanted to visit some of the islands in the Mediterranean that most cruise ships don’t go to. A friend recommended that I try a sailing ship so I googled and found the sea clippers and Adventure Life. My experience booking with them was excellent. They were professional and responsive. I’d use them again plus recommend them.
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Our Balkans trip was the perfect blend of adventure, history, and cultural discovery. Each country offered something special—from Albania’s lively energy and stunning mountain landscapes to Montenegro’s breathtaking Bay of Kotor and Bosnia’s rich mix of cultures and moving history. The fall colors and scenic drives made every mile memorable. We loved the balance of guided tours, hikes, local food and wine experiences, and time to explore on our own. Our guides, Loren and Ernest, were outstanding—knowledgeable, engaging, and full of local insight and humor. Even after traveling more than 1,000 miles together, the journey never felt long or dull. It was a beautifully curated itinerary that captured the very best of the Balkans.
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Knowledgable and responsive staff made the booking go smoothly!
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