Venice is the heart and soul of romance. Cast your eye on the rounded domes of San Marco, take a deep breath at the Bridge of Sighs, gaze on the golden lions and the Renaissance glories of the Doge's Palace, listen for the ghosts of Verdi, Puccini and Caruso at La Fenice Opera House, gape at the classic Palladian proportions of the Church of San Giorgio Maggiore, glide in a gondola down the Grand Canal. And know that love is always in the air in Venice.

The warm sands of Cikat Bay, situated near the port of Mali Losinj where we anchor, are an irresistible magnet for beachgoers. And no wonder, the beach is 30 kilometres long and offers every watersport imaginable. For those who prefer to wander farther afield, our bicycle tour takes you around the island past the fortified town of Veli Losinj.

The heavenly scent of lavender perfumes the air in the fields and valleys around the island of Hvar. Idyllically located just off the Dalmatian Coast, the island and the little port named after it have been a favorite getaway ever since the time of the Romans, the Byzantines, the Venetians and even Austro-Hungarian royalty.

It was George Bernard Shaw who said,'Those who seek paradise on earth should come to Dubrovnik.' Indeed, Dubrovnik is a treasure by any measure made more precious by its miraculous restoration. Crowned by the Minceta Tower, the 10th century city walls are the proud symbol of Dubrovnik's colourful history.

This stunning rock-walled chasm splitting the coastal mountains of Montenegro is the longest arm of the sea in southern Europe. Boka harbours one of the prettiest, unspoiled towns you'll ever see, the medieval city of Kotor. Founded by the Romans, fortified during the Byzantine era, then ruled by Venice for much of its history, Kotor has been naturally preserved by its isolation.

Otranto, a coastal gem nestled in the heel of Italy's boot, is a captivating town that effortlessly blends history, natural beauty, and Mediterranean charm. Its crown jewel is the breathtaking Otranto Cathedral, adorned with a stunning mosaic floor that narrates biblical tales. The town's labyrinthine streets lead to charming piazzas, vibrant local markets, and seafood restaurants serving delectable Apulian cuisine. With its crystal-clear waters and a pristine sandy shoreline, Otranto boasts some of the Adriatic's most inviting beaches. The town also offers a gateway to the Salento region's cultural and historical treasures, making it a delightful destination for those seeking a blend of sun, sea, and Italian heritage.

Each Star Clippers ship offers a traditional and elegant way to see the world. Feel the wind fill the sails and gently carry you from one gorgeous destination to the next. During your time on board, you can choose to relax on a sun lounger or cool off in one of the pools on the top deck, while more adventurous passengers may enjoy the opportunity to climb the rigging or even have a go at steering the ship. Alternatively, you can wander the interior areas of the ship and discover relaxing lounges, a revitalising spa (Royal Clipper only) and a peaceful library.

Barreling under full sail through the narrow Strait of Messina past Scylla and Charybdis, where rock and whirlpool almost claimed Ulysses, you arrive in lovely Taormina. Perched on the shoulder of Mt. Etna, Taormina inspired Goethe to say that'It is the greatest work of art and nature.'

Italy's seven volcanic Aeolian Islands, just off the north coast of Sicily, are obviously a place favored by the Gods. In Lipari, climb narrow streets to the medieval castello and enjoy a secluded beach. As Royal Clipper sails past Isola Strómboli, watch the sky for frequent volcanic fireworks.

During the Middle Ages, Amalfi was a powerful republic of 70,000 people, rivalling nearby Ravello. For a sense of Amalfi's medieval glory, wander through the grand Duomo, containing the remains of St. Andrew. In the evening we visit nearby Positano, said to be the most beautiful town in the Mediterranean.

The pastel houses of Ponza Town rise in neat terraced rows from the busy harbour where sleekly groomed yachts and ramshackle fishing boats moor side by side. Happily, there are few tourists here, so it's a delight to wander through the unspoiled town.

St. Peter's, with its breathtaking Sistine Chapel, newly restored to its former glory- the Spanish Steps, where all Rome passes by- the Colosseum, where gladiators fought to the death, and the Pantheon, considered to be the most perfect architectural statement of the ages.

During the Middle Ages Gaeta, a coastal city south of Rome, was a fortified settlement, and vibrant port which carried out trade with countries in the eastern Mediterranean. Gaeta is shrouded in history and rich in ancient monuments. Here you will find Monte Orlando Park, a protected area with Roman ruins, Access to Monte Orlando is only on foot or by a shuttle bus during summer months. As you ascend the mountain you will pass the statue of the Madonna and Child which looks out protectively over the beautiful Bay of Gaeta. It is a paradise for bird watchers and nature lovers.

During the Middle Ages, Amalfi was a powerful republic of 70,000 people, rivalling nearby Ravello. For a sense of Amalfi's medieval glory, wander through the grand Duomo, containing the remains of St. Andrew. In the evening we visit nearby Positano, said to be the most beautiful town in the Mediterranean.

Sorrento, whose city walls rise straight out of the sea, is located on the lovely Amalfi Coast and overlooks the Bay of Naples. Optional excursions might include taking a trip back in history to Pompeii, where the ashen remains of ancient Romans lie frozen in time.

The pastel houses of Ponza Town rise in neat terraced rows from the busy harbour where sleekly groomed yachts and ramshackle fishing boats moor side by side. Happily, there are few tourists here, so it's a delight to wander through the unspoiled town.

St. Peter's, with its breathtaking Sistine Chapel, newly restored to its former glory- the Spanish Steps, where all Rome passes by- the Colosseum, where gladiators fought to the death, and the Pantheon, considered to be the most perfect architectural statement of the ages.