Cruise Advice
Duration
8 Nights
Journey Type
Sailing from Spain
Ports
8 Ports
25 October
Setting sail from Barcelona
Barcelona, the cosmopolitan capital of Catalonia, is one of our favourite ports of call. From the warren-like medieval streets of the Barri Gòtic to the fantastical modernist architecture of Antoni Gaudí, from the dizzy heights of Mount Tibidabo to the golden sands of Barceloneta, there's never a dull moment in this most beguiling of cities. Take a stroll along the Ramblas, soak up the wonderful art of Picasso and Miró, or experience the electrifying atmosphere of a match at the Camp Nou. Barcelona is truly a city with something for everyone.
Our tip
For the ultimate boozy lunch head to Can Paixano, also known as La Xampanyeria, where local residents, office workers and the odd adventurous tourist crowd around the bar and tuck into sandwiches washed down with Cava.
26 October
Spain: Castellon
27 October
Spain: Palma de Mallorca
Mallorca is renowned for its beaches, ranging from big, bustling resorts to small, secluded coves. The island interior offers ruggedly beautiful scenery and quaint little towns, while the charming capital, Palma, boasts an attractive old quarter dominated by the imposing Gothic cathedral.
28 October
Spain: Alicante
Much more than just a gateway to the Costa Blanca, Alicante is an attractive and atmospheric city with plenty to recommend it. Founded by the Romans, then ruled by the Arabs for 500 years, the city has a rich history and a lovely old town, along with superb beaches and an excellent modern art museum.
29 October
Spain: Cartagena
Cartagena was founded by the Carthaginians around 227 BC, who named it after their home city in North Africa. These days the city is best known for its well-preserved Roman theatre, which was remarkably only discovered in 1987, in spite of its location in the centre of town.
30 October
Spain: Almeria
Situated on the sunniest stretch of the Andalusian coast, Almeria is little visited by tourists, but the narrow streets of the old town contain some intriguing Mudejar-style architecture. The surrounding landscape is almost lunar in appearance, and has served as the backdrop for many films, from spaghetti westerns to 'Lawrence of Arabia'.
31 October - 1 November
Gibraltar: Gibraltar
Sovereignty of ‘The Rock’ has been a thorny issue ever since Gibraltar was ceded to Britain in 1713, though on the ground it’s clear where most locals’ sympathies lie. Gibraltar is often described as ‘more British than Britain’, a curious enclave of red postboxes, double decker buses and chip shops.
2 November
Arriving in Málaga
Málaga has at times had its reputation dragged down by association with the overdevelopment and high rise horrors of the Costa del Sol, which is a great shame, as there is plenty to satisfy the discerning traveller. The labyrinthine historic centre is right next to the cruise port, and has been given something of a makeover in recent years. Nowadays there are plenty of chic restaurants and bars where you can ease into the rhythms of life in southern Spain, before exploring sights including the intriguing, unfinished Gothic cathedral, and a museum devoted to Málaga's most famous son, Pablo Picasso.
Don't miss
Merienda time! The Spanish eat late, so you’ll need to indulge in this late afternoon snack to keep you going until your evening meal.
Your home from home
Emerald Azzurra and Sakara are the first ships in the Emerald yacht fleet, carrying just 100 lucky travellers in sleek and stylish surroundings.
What we love
Enjoy small ship cruising in style, with comfortable staterooms and suites (most with private balcony), an à la carte restaurant, infinity-style pool, al fresco Sky Bar, wellness area and a marina at the back of the yacht, allowing you to hop straight into the water and have fun with a host of water toys.
| Capacity | 100 Guests |
|---|---|
| Crew | 64 Staff |
| Style |
Intimate and informal, with an emphasis on relaxed, al fresco living and exploration ashore. |
| Inclusions |
|
Tailor-make your trip
Ways to make it better
Where to stay in Barcelona
The lovely Hotel Arts on the sea front is perfectly located for a pre- or post-cruise stay, and has great restaurants too.
Explore Catalonia
Take a day trip to the attractive city of Girona, with its fascinating mix of Gothic, Moorish and Modernist architecture, as well as an exceptionally well preserved Jewish Quarter.
Where to stay in Málaga
We love the Málaga Gibralfaro Parador, in the old quarter with views over the harbour.
Explore Andalusia
Travel north to Granada and the Alhambra Palace, an unmissable example of Moorish architecture in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada.
