This Adriatic and Ionian voyage links Italy, Sicily, Albania and Croatia in a rich sweep of culture, coastline and volcanic drama. Departing Civitavecchia, gateway to Rome, the route calls at pastel-hued Ponza and the Aeolian island of Lipari, sailing past smouldering Stromboli before reaching elegant Taormina beneath Mount Etna. Continue to historic Crotone and the Ionian shores of Sarandë, then north to whitewashed Monopoli and the island harbour of Komiža. Discover the architectural heritage of Šibenik and Rovinj before returning to romantic Venice.


Highlights


• The Aeolian Islands, with Lipari’s volcanic landscapes and a sail-by of active Stromboli.

• Classical and medieval heritage from Taormina and Crotone to Šibenik and Rovinj.

• Contrasting coastlines of Italy, Albania and Croatia, from Ionian bays to Adriatic island harbours.

 

Civitavecchia is an important seaport serving Rome, the Italian capital. As a key entry point for Mediterranean cruises and ferries crossing the Tyrrhenian Sea, Civitavecchia offers a gateway to a variety of destinations in Italy and beyond. The city is 70 km from Rome and 62 km to Fiumiccino airport.

 

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.

 

The Aeolian archipelago is made up of 7 islands of volcanic origin, of which only Stromboli and Vulcano are still active volcanoes. The main island is Lipari, which offers travellers arriving by boat a beautiful panorama of its Acropolis, presided over by the Cathedral. Its marina is bustling with shops, boutiques and stalls... it's an island where life is good.

 

Known as the “Lighthouse of the Mediterranean,” Stromboli is one of the world’s most active volcanoes, rising dramatically from the sea in a perfect cone of black lava. As the ship sails in the surrounding waters, passengers gather on deck to watch the island’s smoking summit and the famous Sciara del Fuoco, where glowing ash and stones occasionally tumble down the slope. The volcano last erupted significantly in 2019, and its gentle, frequent activity creates a mesmerising natural spectacle. Whether at sunrise or sunset, sailing near Stromboli is an unforgettable moment of raw beauty and quiet awe.

 

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.'

 

Crotone is a historic coastal city in southern Italy, known for its rich Greek heritage and beautiful beaches along the Ionian Sea. The city boasts ancient ruins, including the remains of the Temple of Hera Lacinia at Capo Colonna, and a charming old town with narrow streets and vibrant piazzas. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood and traditional Calabrian cuisine at local trattorias. Crotone’s scenic waterfront and historical sites make it a captivating destination for those exploring the Calabria region.

 

Set on a sun-drenched bay overlooking the Ionian Sea, just opposite the island of Corfu, Saranda is Albania’s most elegant coastal resort — and a perfect gateway to two of the country’s greatest treasures. Passengers can enjoy the relaxed waterfront atmosphere or join optional excursions (available at an additional cost) to explore the UNESCO-listed ancient city of Butrint, rich in Greek and Roman ruins, or the beautifully preserved Ottoman town of Gjirokastër, famed for its stone houses and hilltop fortress. Albania boasts a rich and ancient history, yet remains one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. Whether discovering history or simply soaking up the Adriatic sun, Saranda offers a captivating blend of culture, scenery, and Mediterranean charm.

 

Set along the Adriatic coast, this historic Italian town captivates with its whitewashed buildings, narrow alleys, and charming seaside views. The ancient harbor is filled with colorful fishing boats, giving the town an authentic and lively atmosphere. Visitors can explore medieval churches, relax on pristine beaches, and savor delicious Apulian cuisine in this picturesque coastal destination.

 

Nestled between steep hills and sapphire‑ blue waters on Vis Island, Komiža is one of Croatia’s most enchanting island harbours. Passengers can stroll along the palm-lined waterfront, where fishing boats and elegant yachts share the quay, or wander through narrow lanes of stone houses with colourful shutters. For moments of relaxation, you can unwind at the beautiful Gusarica Beach, beneath the charming church of St. Mary. There is also the possibility to walk up to the hilltop St. Nicholas Church, offering lovely views across the town and sea. Food lovers may enjoy lunch at the famous Konoba Jastožera, a historic lobster tavern right by the water. With a rich maritime heritage, Komiža has been a centre of fishing for centuries. Those seeking adventure may join an optional excursion to the Blue Cave on nearby Biševo Island (available at an additional cost), a natural wonder illuminated by ethereal light. Peaceful and picturesque, Komiža is pure Adriatic charm.

 

Šibenik, Croatia, is a charming coastal town on the Adriatic Sea known for its rich history and stunning architecture. The town is home to the UNESCO-listed St. James Cathedral, a masterpiece of Renaissance art. With its narrow, winding streets and views of the sea, Šibenik offers a blend of medieval charm and beautiful coastal scenery, making it a popular destination in Croatia.

 

Rovinj is a typical example of a Mediterranean town. The town is dominated by the Baroque three-nave church of St. Euphemia (Fuma). Close to the harbour are the clock tower, the Baroque Balbi's Arch and the former 17th century Town Hall. To the east lies the complex of the Franciscan monastery and to the south, Rovinj's oldest monument, the Romanesque heptagonal chapel of the Holy Trinity.

 

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.

Itineraries are subject to change. 

Category 6 - INSIDE CABIN

$5,800 AUD
$4,640 AUD pp
Category 6 - INSIDE CABIN
Small double bed or triple berth Bathroom with shower Average cabin dimensions - 10m2 D - Cabin has a fixed double bed S - Single cabin △ - Cabin has an extra fold down bunk with a ladder

Category 5 - OUTSIDE CABIN

$6,145 AUD
$4,916 AUD pp
Category 5 - OUTSIDE CABIN
Double bed or triple berth Bathroom with shower Average cabin dimensions - 11m2 D - Cabin has a fixed double bed

Category 4 - OUTSIDE CABIN

$6,820 AUD
$5,456 AUD pp
Category 4 - OUTSIDE CABIN
Two lower beds or double bed Bathroom with shower Average cabin dimensions - 13m2 D - Cabin has a fixed double bed Category 4 cabins on the Clipper Deck may be slightly smaller than Category 4 cabins on the Commodore Deck.

Category 3 - OUTSIDE CABIN

$7,280 AUD
$5,824 AUD pp
Category 3 - OUTSIDE CABIN
Two lower beds or double bed Bathroom with shower Average cabin dimensions - 13m2 D - Cabin has a fixed double bed Category 3 cabins on the Clipper Deck may be slightly smaller than Category 3 cabins on the Commodore Deck.

Category 2 - LARGE OUTSIDE CABIN

$7,720 AUD
$6,176 AUD pp
Category 2 - LARGE OUTSIDE CABIN
Two lower beds - double bed or triple berth Bathroom with shower Average cabin dimensions - 13m2 △ - Cabin has an extra fold down bunk with a ladder

Category 1 - DELUXE DECK CABIN

$8,755 AUD
$7,004 AUD pp
Category 1 - DELUXE DECK CABIN
Double beds Minibar Bathroom with whirlpool Cabin doors open onto deck Average cabin dimensions - 14.5m2 D - Cabin has a fixed double bed

DELUXE OUTSIDE SUITE

$11,830 AUD
$9,464 AUD pp
DELUXE OUTSIDE SUITE
Private verandah Twin/double beds Sitting area Minibar Bathroom with whirlpool Room service Average cabin dimensions - 26m2 including balcony

OWNER'S SUITE - DELUXE OUTSIDE SUITE (NO PRIVATE VERANDAH)

$12,755 AUD
$10,204 AUD pp
OWNER'S SUITE - DELUXE OUTSIDE SUITE (NO PRIVATE VERANDAH)
Two double beds Seperate sitting area Minibar Bathroom with whirlpool Room service Average cabin dimensions - 40m2

Additional charges:

Port Taxes: $640 AUD

Vessel Type: Tall Ship

Length: 133.8 m

Passenger Capacity: 227

Built: 2000

Royal Clipper is the world’s largest and only five-masted full-rigged sailing ship, inspired by the legendary Preussen. Measuring 134 metres, she combines the grandeur and adventure of classic tall-ship sailing with modern luxury, accommodating just 227 guests in refined style. With 42 sails, three swimming pools, and 1,760 square metres of open deck, Royal Clipper offers expansive outdoor spaces perfect for relaxation, exploration, and panoramic ocean views, including hidden balconies and passenger lookouts high in the masts.

Inside, the ship features elegant and light-filled interiors, including a three-deck atrium leading to the stylish dining room with no-tie dining, and a unique Captain Nemo Lounge housing the spa and health club with underwater glass portholes. Guests can also enjoy watersports from a convenient marina platform, while the combination of modern navigation systems, attentive service, and luxurious amenities ensures an exceptional and unforgettable sailing experience.

Cabin layout for Royal Clipper

20% OFF

Early Booking Discount 20%, till 31 January, 2027. Terms and conditions apply. This special offer is subject to availability. Please contact us for more details.

Inclusions


• Voyage on board in selected cabin category
• All meals while on board
• On board entertainment
• Complimentary watersports programme where applicable including: water-skiing, paddle boards and windsurfing (where possible, subject to weather conditions and local authorities)

Exclusions


• International and domestic flights
• Passport and visa costs where applicable
• Travel insurance
• Transfers to/from the ship
• Optional shore excursions
• Port charges/fees
• Alcoholic beverages & soft drinks
• On board purchases including laundry service
• Gratuities (Pre-paid gratuities are added to invoice)
• Scuba diving available on some itineraries at additional cost
Adriatic Small Ship CruiseSmall Ship Cruise
11 Days from
$422 AUD per day

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0800 945 3327

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1800 107 715

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