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October 2, 2024

Picturesque harbors, sparkling cities, and charming villages, along with dreamlike beaches, define Windstar Cruises‘ itinerary, offering guests the opportunity to discover the magic of the Rivieras in an intimate setting that only a small ship can provide.

The 7-day “Yachtsman’s Harbors of the Rivieras” itinerary, departing on October 25th, takes guests on a journey through these harbors, nestled along coastlines that shine with their own unique charm. This immersive and intimate exploration allows travelers to experience these destinations in a truly special way.

The voyage begins in Rome, a captivating city where ancient ruins and majestic cathedrals blend seamlessly with modern cafés, boutiques, and grand palazzos. For those wishing to dive into the heart of Rome, a must-visit is Vatican City, home to the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica. Works by Bernini, Michelangelo, Caravaggio, and Raphael are just a few of the masterpieces on display. Then, there are the ancient ruins: the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Circus Maximus, and, of course, the iconic Trevi Fountain—where tossing a coin promises a return to the Eternal City.

Next, the itinerary includes two enchanting destinations: Portoferraio and Portofino. In Portoferraio, pine forests and miles of sandy beaches welcome guests to the tranquil island of Elba. While in port, one can enjoy a glass of local Moscato with freshly caught fish, explore the surrounding countryside with its small fishing villages, or simply admire the relaxing beauty of the Tuscan Archipelago National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. In Portofino, with its designer shops and chic cafés, guests can sip a cappuccino by the legendary marina or spend the day shopping in one of the town’s boutique stores.

Sailing aboard the Wind Spirit from Italy, the journey continues to one of Europe’s most exclusive ports, Monte Carlo, home to the dazzling Grand Casino, the royal family’s palace, and the tomb of Princess Grace, originally from Philadelphia, at the cathedral. The next stop is Cannes, a world of exclusive boutiques, palm-lined avenues, sunny beaches, and elegant outdoor cafés. A must-see is the Boulevard of Stars, where visitors can place their hands in the imprints of international celebrities.

The final French stop is Sanary-sur-Mer, the sunniest town in France, located on the Côte d’Azur. Originally a small fishing village, it still boasts a large collection of traditional wooden fishing boats. Here, a group of local artisan fishermen sell their fresh catch daily on the pier, and Jacques Cousteau once had a residence, the Villa Baobab.

Leaving France, the journey arrives in Spain with a visit to Palamos, famous for its locally caught prawns, found in the stunning bay nearby, and renowned for excellent swimming, surfing, snorkeling, and windsurfing. Two major attractions near Palamos are the Dalí Museum, located in his hometown of Figueres, and the UNESCO World Heritage city of Girona, known for its medieval architecture, walled Old Town, and the Roman remains of the Forca Vella fortress. The final stop is Barcelona, the famous and sunny Catalan metropolis, where narrow alleys contrast with grand boulevards. Tapas tastings are a must, and guests are greeted with the warm smiles of the locals. In this vast and imposing city filled with UNESCO sites, admiring the stunning architecture of Antoni Gaudí or the Sagrada Familia Cathedral is nearly obligatory.

This fantastic itinerary, combined with meticulously curated Windstar shore excursions, allows guests to immerse themselves in the heart of local cultures, offering an authentic experience. With over 2,500 excursions to choose from, Windstar provides the opportunity to explore destinations in the most meaningful way, creating experiences for all tastes—whether for outdoor enthusiasts, food lovers, history buffs, and more.

Don’t miss out on Windstar Cruises’ news, updates, and reviews on Cruising Journal, with photos, videos, and cruise deals.

Giorgia Lombardo

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