French Riviera Delight

Nice is the fifth most populous city in France and the second largest on the Mediterranean coast. The city's famous seaside promenade, the Promenade des Anglais ('the Walkway of the English') owes its name to the earliest settlers to this seaside resort. For over a quarter century, the picturesque Nicean surroundings have attracted not only those in search of relaxation but also those seeking inspiration. SeaDream docks in the small port and offers several land adventure options as well as private arrangements and transfers.

Beaulieu-sur-Mer, meaning "Beautiful Place on the Sea” and commonly referred to by locals as Beaulieu, is a seaside resort on the French Riviera between Nice and the Principality of Monaco. Often described as one of the jewels of the Riviera, in the late nineteenth century Beaulieu-sur-Mer was a popular winter resort for European royalty. Today it is known for its beautiful beaches, yacht-lined marina, luxurious boutiques, and charming bistros. Historic charm and Belle époque architecture outline this seaside gem, its waterfront promenade offering views of the Mediterranean Sea, surrounding mountains, and marina.

Beaulieu-sur-Mer, meaning "Beautiful Place on the Sea” and commonly referred to by locals as Beaulieu, is a seaside resort on the French Riviera between Nice and the Principality of Monaco. Often described as one of the jewels of the Riviera, in the late nineteenth century Beaulieu-sur-Mer was a popular winter resort for European royalty. Today it is known for its beautiful beaches, yacht-lined marina, luxurious boutiques, and charming bistros. Historic charm and Belle époque architecture outline this seaside gem, its waterfront promenade offering views of the Mediterranean Sea, surrounding mountains, and marina.

The picturesque fishing village of Portofino can be found along the Italian Riviera, and is one of the most popular resort getaways in all of Italy. Portofino has been a staple of tourism in Italy since the 19th century, officially replacing fishing as its chief industry in 1950. Portofino is twinned with Kinsale, Ireland, and Palma (de Mallorca), Spain. Roman philosopher and military commander Pliny the Elder declared that Portofino was founded by the Romans, and with the high concentration of dolphins found in the Tigullian Gulf, it was named the “Port of the Dolphin” - Portus Delphini. Portofino was primarily a member of the Republic of Genoa in early days, and never provided more than a resting area for the merchant navy due to its naturally cramped harbor. The Republic of Florence purchased Portofino in 1409 from French King Charles VI, yet returned when the Florentines were ousted. Portofino became a part of the Kingdom of Sardinia in 1815, and during Risorgimento, it became a member of the Kingdom of Italy in 1861. Aristocratic visitors from Northern Europe began visiting the town in the 19th century, leading to eventual vacation homes and celebrities appearing in Portofino. Portofino is naturally beautiful port with colorful, iconic architecture that was even replicated as a hotel resort at the Universal Orlando Resort in Orlando. The Tokyo Disney Resort in Japan also created a seaside town based on Portofino. Tourists like to visit the museum Castello Brown, which provides a great view of the town, as well as the churches of St. Martin, Oratorio di Nostra Signora Assunta, and St. George - the latter containing some relics of saints. When visiting Portofino, be sure to take a guided dive to the Portofino Marine Park, as well as take a glimpse at the recently restored famous underwater statue, the Christ of the Abyss.

Not only is Livorno a fantastic hub to visit neighboring Pisa, Lucca and Florence. Livorno itself is a great destination. To start with, SeaDream docks in the city center rather than further down in the commercial port that would require shuttle bus service. SeaDreamers can easily walk into town or even to the train station. Some of our officers may offer a bike ride from the port to either Pisa or Lucca – possibly both for the extremely active guest. SeaDream has arranged some expertly guided land adventures to take you to the Unesco Awarded Sites. See the Land Adventures tab for more information.

The name Portoferraio, meaning “Iron Port” in Italian, comes from the iron mills that prospered the small town during the 19th century. Due to Napoleon’s exile to Elba in 1814, the entire island enjoyed an age of glory and soon blossomed into a melting pot of different cultures. There are several memories of the past worthy of exploration—from the archaeological findings in Portoferraio’s museums to the impressive fortresses and military constructions such as the Castello del Volterraio and Napoleonic residences. Today Elba’s main attractions include the tranquil beauty of its rugged hills and the crystal-clear blue waters of its bays.

Bonifacio is one of our favorite arrivals! As we approach, the Captain navigates along the limestone cliffs giving guests a sea view of incredible Bonifacio as well as the great Aragon steps leading to the water’s edge. Shortly after the pilot will embark and the Captain will turn the yacht around and back into this very impressive fjord-like marina. This could be one of our highest rated arrivals as the guests always find it both impressive and awe inspiring.

Calvi located on the northwest coast of Corsica in the Haute-Corse department of France. Some have speculated that Christopher Columbus came from Calvi, which at the time was part of the Genoese Empire. SeaDream has an option to dock in the heart of town or anchor off the marina to offer marina possibilities. As most of the main sites are just a stone throw away, we have arranged a guided walking land adventure. Other options include the popular Villages of Corsica adventure, Golf, mountain biking or relaxing on the beach.

Nice is the fifth most populous city in France and the second largest on the Mediterranean coast. The city's famous seaside promenade, the Promenade des Anglais ('the Walkway of the English') owes its name to the earliest settlers to this seaside resort. For over a quarter century, the picturesque Nicean surroundings have attracted not only those in search of relaxation but also those seeking inspiration. SeaDream docks in the small port and offers several land adventure options as well as private arrangements and transfers.