Grand Mediterranean & Riviera Escape

Portugal's bustling capital showcases a rich contrast of the historical and modern. Situated near the Tagus River and endlessly sunny, Lisbon embodies a unique beauty and an internationally acclaimed architectural singularity. Its charming hilly neighborhoods boast winding, cobblestone streets and pastel-painted homes and cafés, which happily serve up the city’s signature cuisine, including pastel de nata and custard tarts. From imposing Sao Jorge Castle, the view encompasses the city’s Old Town, Tagus Estuary, and suspension bridge; the National Azulejo Museum displays 5 centuries of decorative ceramic tiles.

Setubal sits pretty in the Lisbon and Tagus Valley region of Portugal on the edge of the Setubal peninsula, on the north bank of the Sado Estuary. This lovely historic town boasts notable landmarks such as the 16th-century Monastery of Jesus and the São Julião Church. A charming, strollable destination, Setubal is known for its vibrant food culture, including its local wines, fresh seafood, and local specialty, choco frito (fried cuttlefish). Stroll its waterfront, where traditional fishing boats bob gently against the backdrop of St. Philip fortress and the rugged Arrabida mountain range, or lounge one of its several beautiful beaches.

Sitting pretty at the mouth of the Bensafrim River and dominated by limestone cliffs, the lovely seaside town of Lagos charms for its scenic coastline and natural beauty. Once a center of the Portuguese Age of Discovery and home to Henry the Navigator, Lagos enjoys a rich history expressed in its Mercado de Escravos Museum and charming Old Town. Its narrow cobblestone streets, old churches, and tiled buildings are ripe for discovery, as are the vineyards and wineries above the town. Lagos boasts several golden-sand beaches, including Meia Praia, perfect for swimming, strolling, or snorkeling. Wooden steps point to the sandy cove of Praia do Camilo, and the nearby cliffs of Ponta de Piedade offer panoramic views and a stone lighthouse that stands guard over the Atlantic Sea.

A coastal town sitting along the Costa de la Luz coastline in the Gulf of Cádiz, Huelva lies next to the estuary formed by the confluence of the Odiel and Tinto rivers. Huelva is surrounded by the unique landscape of dunes, marshes, and pines of the Doñana National Park, pristine beaches, and golf courses. Rich is maritime history, the province is noted for its Palos de la Frontera, and Moguer, where Christopher Columbus sailed out of on his first voyage in 1492.

Cadiz is believed to have been founded some 3,000 years ago which could make this port city the oldest in Western Europe. The city has so much to offer its visitors with its commercial importance, stunning beaches, regional cuisine and the Unesco Awarded Donana National Park. There’s several significant landmarks in Cadiz, some of which include the yellow-domed Cathedral, the ancient roman theatre, an 18th-century watch tower, the city walls and so much more. SeaDream docks in the heart of this Andalusian town.

This Spanish city bordering northern Morocco is located on a narrow isthmus that connects Mt. Hacho to the Spanish mainland. Ceuta has a unique natural setting where the waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea meet, making it perfect for kayaking and spotting the area’s resident dolphins and turtles. For a panoramic view of the city and stunning views of the Strait of Gibraltar, visit Mirador de Isabel II. Ceuta’s close proximity to northern Africa flavors its cuisine, architecture, and more, blending Christian, Muslim, Jewish, and Hindu influences. With an area of just seven square miles, Ceuta is easy to explore by foot—with the historic Royal Walls, Plaza de los Reyes, House of the Dragons, Church of San Francisco, and Shrine of Our Lady of Africa—within easy reach.

Puerto Banus is a very upscale marina to the west of Marbella, Spain on the Costa del Sol. It was built in 1970 by Jose Banus, a local property developer, as a luxury marina and shopping complex for the jet-set. The focal point of Puerto Banus is the marina. It is also a scene for many exotic cars that are owned by international celebrities and wealthy owners that also own large mega yachts. Our local agent tells us that SeaDream is the only commercial yacht that has docked in Banus.

Malaga, together with adjacent towns and municipalities such as Rincon de la Victoria, Torremolinos, Benalmadena, Fuengirola, Alhaurin de la Torre, Mijas, and Marbella, forms the Malaga Metropolitan area. The important cultural infrastructure and the rich artistic heritage have culminated in the nomination of Malaga as a candidate for the 2016 European Capital of Culture. The internationally acclaimed painter and sculptor Pablo Picasso and actor Antonio Banderas were both born in Malaga. SeaDream calls to Malaga both as an embarkation point as well as a typical port of call. Kindly check on the land adventures tab to see all of the activities and options. Should you need embarkation information, it’s also available there.

Malaga, together with adjacent towns and municipalities such as Rincon de la Victoria, Torremolinos, Benalmadena, Fuengirola, Alhaurin de la Torre, Mijas, and Marbella, forms the Malaga Metropolitan area. The important cultural infrastructure and the rich artistic heritage have culminated in the nomination of Malaga as a candidate for the 2016 European Capital of Culture. The internationally acclaimed painter and sculptor Pablo Picasso and actor Antonio Banderas were both born in Malaga. SeaDream calls to Malaga both as an embarkation point as well as a typical port of call. Kindly check on the land adventures tab to see all of the activities and options. Should you need embarkation information, it’s also available there.

Cartagena was founded in the 3rd century BC and has been a major naval station. It is located in the Region of Murcia, southeastern Spain. Thanks to its strategic position on the Mediterranean, Cartagena has been inhabited by many different cultures which have left their mark on its rich cultural heritage during a glorious and turbulent history. It’s a very pleasant and relaxing city to walk around. SeaDream makes it easy is the yacht docks in the center of town. Guests have an option of a walking discovery adventure as well as resort golf at La Manga. Some guests also enjoy independent usage of the mountain bikes.

Cartagena was founded in the 3rd century BC and has been a major naval station. It is located in the Region of Murcia, southeastern Spain. Thanks to its strategic position on the Mediterranean, Cartagena has been inhabited by many different cultures which have left their mark on its rich cultural heritage during a glorious and turbulent history. It’s a very pleasant and relaxing city to walk around. SeaDream makes it easy is the yacht docks in the center of town. Guests have an option of a walking discovery adventure as well as resort golf at La Manga. Some guests also enjoy independent usage of the mountain bikes.

Valencia is the third largest city in Spain after Madrid and Barcelona. It has more than 2.5 million inhabitants in the metropolitan area. The city is recognized globally partly due to its Unesco Heritage Status as well as the City of Arts and Sciences. The Port of Valencia is a very busy commercial port. It is the 5th busiest container port in Europe and the largest in the Mediterranean. SeaDream docks as close to the city center as possible – just along the Grand Prix Raceway. SeaDream offers both day trips as well as a very popular evening adventure called “Valencia Buzzes at Night”.

Castellón sits along the stunning Mediterranean coastline known as the “Costa del Azahar” (Orange Blossom Coast), defined by its tony beach resorts, sandy beaches, and the volcanic Columbretes Islands, a protected marine reserve for seabirds. Bordered by the Spanish provinces of Valencia, Teruel, and Tarragona, the region boasts mountainous areas like the Sierra de Espadán and Mount Penyagolosaand ample hiking trails. Castellón is heralded for its cuisine, including fresh seafood and local produce, particularly oranges, and is home to the thirteenth-century Gothic Peñíscola Castle, offering panoramic coastal views.

Few travelers have discovered the small Catalan fishing town nestled between the Mediterranean and the Pyrenees. The town’s name comes from Venus (Portus Veneris) and was part of the kingdom of Majorca during the Middle Ages. The natural beauty of Port-Vendres comes alive in its sandy beaches, pebble coves, and many hiking trails, offering views of the Catalan coast and nearby vineyards. You can hike to Fort Saint-Elmo for panoramic views and to learn about the region's military history. Relax and watch fishing boats arrive at port with their daily catch, served up in the town’s many beachfront restaurants. Explore the town’s rich history by visiting the Obelisk, a 100-foot monument in the center of Royal Square—built in1783 to commemorate U.S. independence, supported by France and declared at the Treaty of Versailles that year. Explore the works of Scottish watercolorist Charles Rennie Mackintosh at his namesake museum, or stroll the gardens of the Dynamiterie de Paulilles, a former explosives factory and today a museum and nature preserve.

Sanary-sur-Mer is a Provencal village located in the Var department in the Provences-Alpes-Côtes d'Azur region of France. Most visitors fall in love with the town shortly after they arrive. The harbor has several traditional wooden boats called “pointus” that are used by the fisherman daily. They sell their catch each morning on the harbor front. Market day is always a special treat so plan accordingly. The nearby village of Bandol has some of the oldest vineyards in France. It’s an easy bike ride down the coast from Sanary-sur-Mer. Other options include a land adventure to the nearby town of Castellet a typical hilltop village where you can explore and have a nice wine tasting. Golf at De La Fregate as well as water sports are also on option here.

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.

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.

Often referred to as “the French Pompeii,” Fréjus bursts with ancient monuments and a history that few seaside towns can claim. Here Julius Caesar founded the first Roman military harbor on the Mediterranean coast, and with its 2,000-year-old history you might just feel like you are in gladiatorial times past. Unmissable sites include the Roman Ampitheater, an impressive oval arena perched on the edge of town; the Roman Aqueduct, where channeled waters from the Foux and Siagnole Rivers meet via massive underground conduits; and the Archaeological Museum, which houses the bust of Hermes, the symbol of Fréjus. Take in the open-air street markets and cafés, brimming with local life and culture, and ask your chef to accent your evening’s meal with local flavors.

Bastia is the principal port of the French island of Corsica. This commercial town is especially famous for its local wines. Main sights include the Museum of Corsica, the former palace of the Genoese governors, which now accommodates a museum of Corsican Ethnography. The fortress with its keep and its 16th-century bell tower protects Terra-Nova and offers great views over the old port, Terra Vecchia, the mountain and the coast. Land Adventures can take you for a casual walking exploration to Erbaluga or further out to Nebbio and St. Florent.

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.

Nestled in the Tyrrhenian Sea, between Corsica and Tuscany, sits Capraia, a volcanic island in the Tuscan Archipelago National Park. The mostly mountainous island is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, rich history, and diverse wildlife—accessible only by ferry from Livorno or small sailing vessels such as your SeaDream yacht. Nature lovers can hike, snorkel, and dive here, as well as explore the island’s abundant beaches, coves, and grottos. Cala dello Zurletto and Cala St. Francis Beach are two local favorites, both offering secluded spots to swim. Capraia has many historical sites worthy of exploration, including the Fortress of St. George, the Church of the Assunta, the Church of St. Nicola, and the Church and Convent of St. Antonio. The Roman road of San Leonardo is an idyllic location to walk and enjoy panoramic views.

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.

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.

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).

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.