Italian Treasures: Amalfi Coast, Sicily and Malta

Welcome to the Eternal City, where ancient monuments and elaborate churches sit alongside busy cafes and designer boutiques. Your Discovery Yacht, Scenic Eclipse II, will be waiting at Civitavecchia, a Roman port dating back to the second century. When you arrive, you’ll be warmly welcomed on board by the Captain and crew. Meet your butler and settle into your spacious suite. Head to the Sky Bar on Deck 10 to toast the beginning of your voyage as you look over the city’s twinkling lights.

Capri’s mythical charm has captured hearts for more than 2,000 years. Roman Emperor Caesar Augustus fell in love with the island in 29BC, building villas, temples and gardens for his own private paradise. Today, its jaw-dropping beauty still draws royalty, celebrities and fashionable travellers from all over the world. Spend today exploring Capri. Wander through the Piazzetta and listen to the melodious chiming of the clock tower, admire the blue ocean as it crashes onto the cliffs, and taste its famous flourless chocolate cake or a fresh caprese salad. A late departure means you can soak in the atmosphere of the village after dark.

This morning you’ll arrive in Amalfi, the historic village that gave this region its name. Nestled between mountains and the sea, Amalfi was one of the four Maritime Republics of Italy in the Middle Ages, bringing great wealth and power. Wander along its meandering alleyways to admire historic buildings, grand churches and ornate fountains, or just relax at one of the many cafes that spill out onto the street. The nearby village of Ravello offers spectacular views of the Bay of Salerno and peaceful gardens surrounding medieval ruins.

The World Heritage-listed Aeolian Islands are seven volcanic outcrops set off the north coast of Sicily with a rich history dating back to 5000BC. As you sail into the islands this morning, look out for the huge rock formations that rise dramatically from the water. Lipari is the largest and most populated of the islands, known for its pebbled beaches, hiking trails and historic harbour. From its panoramic position, a castle overlooks the seafront of pastel-coloured townhouses, with windswept highlands and steep cliffs in the distance.

Known as the Jewel of Sicily, Taormina is one of the island’s most popular resorts. Once a stop on the famed Grand Tour of the 19th century, today it is packed with luxury hotels, exceptional restaurants and designer boutiques. It’s also the gateway to Mount Etna, the largest active volcano in Europe, which dominates the picturesque backdrop. This charming small town set high above the Ionian Sea is known for its stunning ancient theatre, beautifully resorted medieval buildings, astonishing vistas and exclusive atmosphere.

This morning, Scenic Eclipse II will sail into the spectacular deep harbour of Valetta, the capital of Malta. You’ll dock right alongside the historic waterfront, lined with grand Baroque warehouses and just a short walk from the fascinating walled city, built by the Knights Templar in the 16th century. It’s a fitting end to this grand exploration of the Mediterranean, immersing you in history, architecture and natural beauty. Enjoy a final breakfast on board before farewelling the crew and your fellow guests, taking with you memories of an unforgettable voyage.