Sicily Unveiled with Italian Treasures

Begin your journey in Civitavecchia, one of the main seaports for Rome, Italy’s capital. As a major hub for Mediterranean cruise lines and for ferries crossing the Tyrrhenian Sea, the city connects you to many destinations throughout Italy and farther afield. Civitavecchia lies 70 kilometers (43 miles) from Rome and 62 kilometers (39 miles) from Fiumicino Airport.

Sail with Star Clippers for a classic, refined way to travel, as the breeze carries you from one beautiful port to the next. On board, stretch out on a sun lounger or take a dip in one of the top-deck pools. If you feel adventurous, climb the rigging or even take a turn at the ship’s wheel. Indoors, explore the Royal Clipper’s comfortable lounges, refreshing spa, and quiet library.

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.

Vibrant and full of character, Palermo is the spirited capital of Sicily - a city where history, culture, and cuisine blend in irresistible harmony. Passengers can explore its dazzling mix of Norman, Arab, and Baroque architecture, from the golden mosaics of the Palatine Chapel to the grand Teatro Massimo. The narrow streets bustle with markets overflowing with color and fragrance, while elegant piazzas invite a slower pace. Whether sampling authentic Sicilian street food, admiring ancient treasures, or simply soaking in the city’s southern warmth, Palermo captures the essence of the Mediterranean - bold, beautiful, and unforgettable.

Situated on the northern coast of Sicily, the quiet port of Termini Imerese is surrounded by rolling hills and sparkling sea views. Passengers can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, or take your transfer to Cefalù, one of Sicily’s most beautiful seaside towns, which is just 32 km away. Nestled beneath a dramatic cliff, Cefalù captivates visitors with its medieval streets, golden beaches and magnificent Norman cathedral. Cobbled lanes lined with cafés and boutiques are perfect for exploring at a relaxed pace. Whether you wish to admire local craftsmanship, enjoy a swim or simply soak up the Sicilian sunshine, Termini Imerese offers a gateway to the island’s charming north coast.

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 travelers 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 near-perfect cone of black lava. As the ship sails through the surrounding waters, passengers gather on deck to observe the island’s smoking summit and the famous Sciara del Fuoco, where glowing ash and volcanic rocks occasionally tumble down the slope. Its frequent eruptions create a remarkable natural spectacle. Whether viewed at sunrise or sunset, sailing near Stromboli offers a memorable display of volcanic activity and natural beauty.

Nestled on the Calabrian coast, Vibo Marina is a quiet coastal town surrounded by lush green hills with a long sandy beach close to the port. Vibo Marina is a gateway to explore Calabria, one of Italy’s most authentic and wild regions. Passengers can relax onboard or join an optional excursion to the coastal town of Tropea, built on the top of a cliff and called the “Pearl of the Tyrrhenian”. Tropea delights with its dramatic cliffside views, narrow streets, and vibrant piazzas overlooking the turquoise sea. Its sandy beaches and warm hospitality capture the essence of Calabria at its finest.

Perched above the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea, Agropoli is a captivating coastal town at the gateway to the Cilento region. Its medieval center, crowned by an ancient castle, overlooks winding lanes, vibrant cafés, and golden beaches below. From here, passengers can join an optional excursion to Paestum (available at an additional cost), one of Italy’s most remarkable archaeological sites. Strolling among the beautifully preserved Greek temples, passengers can imagine life in this ancient colony of Magna Graecia. With its blend of seaside charm, history, and authentic southern Italian warmth, Agropoli is the perfect base for exploring the timeless wonders of Paestum and the surrounding coast.

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 snorkelling heaven that is 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. Totally unique, isolated and stunning.

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.

Disembark after breakfast and continue your independent trip back home.