The Tyrrhenian & Riviera

Venice has been known as the "Queen of the Adriatic", "City of Water", "City of Masks", "City of Bridges", "The Floating City", and "City of Canals". Luigi Barzini, writing in The New York Times, described it as "undoubtedly the most beautiful city built by man". Venice has also been described by the Times Online as being one of Europe's most romantic cities. Founded in the 5th century, the city stretches across 118 small islands in the marshy Venetian Lagoon along the Adriatic. In 1987 Venice and its Lagoon was inscribed as a UNESCO Heritage site. SeaDream typically docks at the San Basilio pier after navigating by the famous St. Mark’s Square down the grand canal. With its yacht stature, SeaDream vessels are amongst the very few commercial vessels that can navigate this famous waterway. SeaDream does offer Land Adventures when overnighting. You can also contact our destination specialists should you need a private arrangement, transfer or hotel recommendation.

Once the capital of the Western Roman and Byzantine empires, Ravenna guards the finest mosaics outside Istanbul. Stand beneath the gold-ground dome of the Basilica of San Vitale, then the star-strewn ceiling of the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, sights that stopped even Cole Porter in his tracks. Dante wrote his final lines here and lies in a quiet tomb near San Francesco, while the Po Delta's wetlands just beyond town shelter flamingos and herons among the reeds. Round out the day with a glass of Sangiovese di Romagna and a folded piadina, Ravenna's own street food. History, wine and birdlife in one understated port.

The easternmost town on the Italian mainland, Otranto enchants with its medieval architecture and relaxed beachfront atmosphere. As you approach the modest façade of the town’s 11th-century cathedral, admire the delicately carved rose window, a preview of the wonders found within, which include an extraordinary mosaic floor known as the Tree of Life. The imposing Castello Aragonese invites exploration both along the ramparts and in the dry moat, a perfect vantage point from which to admire the fort’s massive cylindrical towers. Sun-lovers flock to the town’s beaches, which wrap around a protected cove lapped by gentle waves. While roaming the Old Town’s warren of narrow streets and cozy squares, you’ll discover enticing shops and eateries housed in age-old stone buildings. Later in the day, both residents and visitors congregate on the seaside promenade for their passeggiata, a typical Italian stroll that affords marvelous views of the sparkling sea. Stop at one of Otranto’s many excellent restaurants for a taste of orecchiette, which amusingly means small ear in Italian and is a popular regional pasta often served with savory ricotta.

The easternmost town on the Italian mainland, Otranto enchants with its medieval architecture and relaxed beachfront atmosphere. As you approach the modest façade of the town’s 11th-century cathedral, admire the delicately carved rose window, a preview of the wonders found within, which include an extraordinary mosaic floor known as the Tree of Life. The imposing Castello Aragonese invites exploration both along the ramparts and in the dry moat, a perfect vantage point from which to admire the fort’s massive cylindrical towers. Sun-lovers flock to the town’s beaches, which wrap around a protected cove lapped by gentle waves. While roaming the Old Town’s warren of narrow streets and cozy squares, you’ll discover enticing shops and eateries housed in age-old stone buildings. Later in the day, both residents and visitors congregate on the seaside promenade for their passeggiata, a typical Italian stroll that affords marvelous views of the sparkling sea. Stop at one of Otranto’s many excellent restaurants for a taste of orecchiette, which amusingly means small ear in Italian and is a popular regional pasta often served with savory ricotta.

SeaDream yachts anchor in the bay of Giardini Naxos and offer fantastic views of recently awarded UNESCO Natural Site of Mt. Etna (2013) as well as Taormina perched on the cliffside. Shuttle bus service has been arranged to transport guests from Giardini Naxos to the entrance gate of Taormina town up to Castelmola which provides amazing views of the surrounding areas. Perhaps the “must do” adventure here would be to ascend Mt. Etna with your fellow SeaDreamers. Kindly check the Land Adventure tab for the specifics. Other options include an incredible and authentic feast at the Godfather Villa. As we are anchored and if conditions allow, we will offer water sports both in the morning and in the afternoon.

Amalfi is a picturesque town in the province of Salerno, in the Campania region of Italy. With its incredible views, it is the central town that makes up the very famous and UNESCO awarded Amalfi Coast (Costiera Amalfitana). Amalfi sports some impressive medieval architecture including; its cathedral of Sant'Andrea (St. Andrew), the church tower, the convent of the Cappuccini, founded by the Amalfitan Cardinal Pietro Capuano. They richly represent the artistic movement prevailing in Southern Italy. From Amalfi, we have created two exciting land adventures for you. One to Scenic Ravello and the other to Fascinating Pompeii. You may also choose to play from the yacht’s marina (Permission and conditions pending) or go on a very scenic hike with one of the officers.

Amalfi is a picturesque town in the province of Salerno, in the Campania region of Italy. With its incredible views, it is the central town that makes up the very famous and UNESCO awarded Amalfi Coast (Costiera Amalfitana). Amalfi sports some impressive medieval architecture including; its cathedral of Sant'Andrea (St. Andrew), the church tower, the convent of the Cappuccini, founded by the Amalfitan Cardinal Pietro Capuano. They richly represent the artistic movement prevailing in Southern Italy. From Amalfi, we have created two exciting land adventures for you. One to Scenic Ravello and the other to Fascinating Pompeii. You may also choose to play from the yacht’s marina (Permission and conditions pending) or go on a very scenic hike with one of the officers.

Sitting pretty in the Gulf of Naples, just off the Sorrentine Peninsula, the island of Capri is well known today for its breathtaking landscapes and upscale beach resorts. The island has two harbors, Marina Piccola and Marina Grande. While human presence on the island can be dated back to the Neolithic and the Bronze Age, it was Emperor Augustus who most famously developed Capri by building villas, temples, and planted gardens. Popular to both visitors and native Italians alike, Capri is known for its boutique hotels, trendy restaurants, and annual international film festival, and is a favorite yachting destination. The island also offers many historic landmarks and highlights, including Grotta Azzurra, Villa Jovis, Giardini di Augusto, Certosa di San Giacomo, Villa San Michele di Axel Munthe, and the uniquely shaped Faraglioni Rocks. Mt. Solero marks the highest point of Capri, at 589 meters (about 1932 ft) at its peak. There is also a statue of Emperor Augustus on the mount, who first landed on Capri, over 900 species of vegetation, and, of course, incredible views. Two different hiking routes lead up the mountain and are worthy of exploration. On many itineraries, SeaDream yachts dock alongside in Capri until midnight, allowing guests to step off the yacht and into Capri with ease, without tendering ashore—a unique experience due to the intimate size of our yachts. For those who may not be familiar with the island, Capri offers a sophisticated charm that comes alive in the evening. A guest favorite includes boarding the funicular that runs between the port in Marina Grande and the Piazzetta in Capri town above, where incredible views, buzzing bistros, and luxe boutiques await.

Civitavecchia is a major port located in Rome, primarily utilized for maritime transportation of goods, as well as a fishing port. The commune’s name means “ancient town” and is one of the “Motorways of the Sea” in the Mediterranean, functioning as one of the main links between the mainland of Italy and Sardinia. The ancient name of the port was “Centumcellae,” first mentioned in a letter written by Pliny the Younger in 107 A.D., although scholars debate on whether the name was about the number of rooms of the Trajan Villa, or the number of natural creeks on the coast. Civitavecchia is a part of the Lazio Territory, an area which was confirmed to have social groups since pre-historic times, and the modern town was built over a pre-existing settlement of the Etruscan people in 107-108 B.C.E. (who debated to have founded Rome). In the beginning of the 2nd century, the harbor and town of Centumcellae were simultaneously developed by Emperor Trajan in the territory of Aquae Tauri. As the town became more popular for ships traveling westbound, the Thermal Baths were constructed on the hill of Ficoncella. Centumcellae flourished in the Imperial Age, and by 538 A.D., it had become a Byzantine stronghold. In 728 A.D., it became a member of the Papal States. The Saracens raided Centumcellae many times in the 9th century, prompting Pope Leo VII to have a newer and more secure settlement built by 854. The town, then known as Civita Vetula, was under the rule of several lords, and the Popes temporarily lost control during the French Rule in 1798-1815. In 1870 it entered the Kingdom of Italy. Civitavecchia was severely damaged during WWII, destroying many of the ancient monuments including Forte Michelangelo, which would be rebuilt in the 1950’s. Popular points of interest include the Forte Michelangelo, Terme Taurine, and Cattedrale di San Francesco. There is a wealth of Roman and Vatican architecture and tourists are encouraged to visit many of the museums and take the cultural tours available in this important sea port.

Civitavecchia is a major port located in Rome, primarily utilized for maritime transportation of goods, as well as a fishing port. The commune’s name means “ancient town” and is one of the “Motorways of the Sea” in the Mediterranean, functioning as one of the main links between the mainland of Italy and Sardinia. The ancient name of the port was “Centumcellae,” first mentioned in a letter written by Pliny the Younger in 107 A.D., although scholars debate on whether the name was about the number of rooms of the Trajan Villa, or the number of natural creeks on the coast. Civitavecchia is a part of the Lazio Territory, an area which was confirmed to have social groups since pre-historic times, and the modern town was built over a pre-existing settlement of the Etruscan people in 107-108 B.C.E. (who debated to have founded Rome). In the beginning of the 2nd century, the harbor and town of Centumcellae were simultaneously developed by Emperor Trajan in the territory of Aquae Tauri. As the town became more popular for ships traveling westbound, the Thermal Baths were constructed on the hill of Ficoncella. Centumcellae flourished in the Imperial Age, and by 538 A.D., it had become a Byzantine stronghold. In 728 A.D., it became a member of the Papal States. The Saracens raided Centumcellae many times in the 9th century, prompting Pope Leo VII to have a newer and more secure settlement built by 854. The town, then known as Civita Vetula, was under the rule of several lords, and the Popes temporarily lost control during the French Rule in 1798-1815. In 1870 it entered the Kingdom of Italy. Civitavecchia was severely damaged during WWII, destroying many of the ancient monuments including Forte Michelangelo, which would be rebuilt in the 1950’s. Popular points of interest include the Forte Michelangelo, Terme Taurine, and Cattedrale di San Francesco. There is a wealth of Roman and Vatican architecture and tourists are encouraged to visit many of the museums and take the cultural tours available in this important sea port.

Porto Ercole meaning “Port Hercules”, is a town located in the municipality of Monte Argentario, in the Province of Grosseto, Tuscany. It is one the two major towns that form the township, along with Porto Santo Stefano located on the opposite side of this unique peninsula. It’s a very picturesque marina with sidewalk boutiques, cafes and restaurants. This is a great start for the Land Adventure traveling to Montalcino for the tasting of fantastic Brunello in one of the most famous Italian wine regions. Other options include hiking to the few castellos (castles) located on top of the three hills surrounding the port. As well as an adventures bike ride to Porto Santo Stefano or for the really energetic to the convent on top of the mountain. There’s also a great golf course and a fantastic boutique hotel called Il Pelicano where guests can enjoy a nice atmosphere and lunch. As we are anchored, guests will also enjoy water sports from the marina platform (Pending local conditions and approvals).

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.

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.

One word – Incredible! Cinque Terre, Portovenere and the three Island of Palmaria, Tino and Tinetto have been added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1997. They have been selected for being distinguished examples of the ways in which man has been able to modify and transform the environment without altering the beauty of the original natural landscape. Most of our valued guests will participate in the ever popular “Cinque Terre: Don’t go Home Without It” Land Adventure. Others may enjoy the guided village walk or go hiking on several trails leading down the coast. Most guests will make a purchase of the amazing local pesto and we are fairly certain our Executive Chef will do the same. Be prepared for an incredible dinner al fresco this evening!

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.

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.