This Mediterranean journey begins and ends in elegant Nice, sailing between the French and Italian Rivieras and the storied islands of Elba, Corsica, and Sardinia. Discover the pastel waterfront and cliff-top church of Porto Venere, explore Napoleonic history in Portoferraio, and marvel at the dramatic limestone citadel of Bonifacio. The voyage continues through the Catalan-flavoured streets of Alghero and the imperial heritage of Ajaccio, before pausing in sun-kissed Menton and returning to the timeless glamour of the Côte d’Azur.


Highlights


• UNESCO-listed Porto Venere and the scenic beauty of Elba, once home to Napoleon.

• Spectacular Corsican landscapes, from Bonifacio’s white cliffs to Ajaccio’s imperial legacy.

• Riviera elegance and Mediterranean charm in Menton and Nice, blending French sophistication with Italian warmth.

 

Nice seduces with its enchanting mix of Mediterranean glamour and sun-drenched beaches. Stroll along the famous Promenade des Anglais, explore the historic charm of Vieux Nice with its colourful alleyways and bustling markets, and savour delicious cuisine. With its mild year-round climate, Nice offers the perfect escape where French elegance meets natural beauty.

 

Porto Venere is a stunning seaside village on the Ligurian coast of Italy, known for its colorful waterfront houses and medieval charm. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it boasts the impressive Church of San Pietro, perched on a rocky cliff overlooking the sea. The town’s historic castle and narrow, winding streets add to its timeless appeal. Nearby, the beautiful Palmaria Island offers scenic hiking trails and crystal-clear waters for swimming. Often considered a quieter alternative to Cinque Terre, Porto Venere is a hidden gem perfect for those seeking history, nature, and breathtaking coastal views.

 

From his villa in Portoferraio, Napoleon, the exiled Emperor of France, looked out over the waiting ships in the harbour and dreamed of returning to glory. Enjoy a local vineyard tour, and near Portoferraio, discover the remains of an ancient Etruscan civilisation.

 

Bonifacio, a magnificent town in the far south of Corsica, is renowned for its spectacular medieval architecture, impressive limestone cliffs and picturesque harbour. Nestling atop steep cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, Bonifacio offers breathtaking views of the crystal-clear waters and neighbouring islands.

 

Alghero is the main resort in the northwest of Sardinia and one of it's most beautiful medieval cities. It's bustling historic centre is packed with excellent bars and restaurants making it a great place to hang out. It is also ideally placed for exploring the beaches of nearby Riviera del Corallo. Interestingly a form of medieval Catalan is still spoken even though the Iberians left three centuries ago.

 

Ajaccio, the capital of Corsica, is situated on the west coast of the island and is a bustling port city with a relaxed atmosphere. Known for its charming cobbled streets, relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere and rich cultural heritage as the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte. Ajaccio offers a unique experience combining history, nature and gastronomy.

 

Bathed in golden light on the border between France and Italy, Menton charms visitors with its pastel-coloured façades, lush gardens and relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere. Stroll through the colourful old town, wander along the lively pedestrian street with its cafés and shops, or enjoy the magnificent Promenade des Sablettes with its beach and views of the harbour and old town. Blessed with a subtropical microclimate that favours the cultivation of lemon trees and exotic flowers, as evidenced by the Val Rahmeh botanical garden, Menton truly deserves its nickname, ‘Pearl of France’. Combining French elegance and Italian warmth, the town invites you to enjoy its sunshine, scenery and the timeless charm of the French Riviera.

 

Nice seduces with its enchanting mix of Mediterranean glamour and sun-drenched beaches. Stroll along the famous Promenade des Anglais, explore the historic charm of Vieux Nice with its colourful alleyways and bustling markets, and savour delicious cuisine. With its mild year-round climate, Nice offers the perfect escape where French elegance meets natural beauty.

Itineraries are subject to change. 

Category 6 - INSIDE CABIN

$4,060 AUD
$3,248 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

$4,300 AUD
$3,440 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

$4,775 AUD
$3,820 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

$5,095 AUD
$4,076 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

$5,405 AUD
$4,324 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

$6,130 AUD
$4,904 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

$8,280 AUD
$6,624 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)

$8,930 AUD
$7,144 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

Category 6

$3,865 AUD
$3,092 AUD pp
Category 6
Inside cabin, upper/lower berths, bathroom with shower.

Category 5

$4,295 AUD
$3,436 AUD pp
Category 5
Inside/outside cabin, raised double bed, two lower beds or triple berths etc, bathroom with shower.

Category 4

$4,775 AUD
$3,820 AUD pp
Category 4
Outside cabin, two lower beds, double bed or triple berths, bathroom with shower.

Category 3

$5,095 AUD
$4,076 AUD pp
Category 3
Outside cabin,twin/double/triple beds, bathroom with shower.

Category 2

$5,405 AUD
$4,324 AUD pp
Category 2
Large outside cabin, twin/double/triple beds, bathroom with shower.

Category 1

$6,130 AUD
$4,904 AUD pp
Category 1
Deluxe deck cabin, two lower beds convert to double bed, minibar, bathroom with whirlpool bath, cabin doors open onto deck.

Owners Suite

$8,280 AUD
$6,624 AUD pp
Owners Suite
Deluxe outside cabin, double bed, sitting are, minibar, bathroom with whirlpool.

Additional charges:

Port Charges: $390 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

Vessel Type: Tall Ship

Length: 115 m

Passenger Capacity: 166

Star Clipper is a modern clipper ship that captures the romance of classic sailing while offering contemporary luxury. At 115 metres in length and carrying just 166 guests, it provides an intimate, yacht-like atmosphere with spacious accommodations, expansive teak decks, and two swimming pools. The ship’s interiors reflect its proud maritime heritage, with polished brass, gleaming mahogany rails, and antique nautical prints creating a rich, elegant ambiance.

On board, guests enjoy open-seating dining in an elegantly appointed restaurant, a Tropical Bar and Piano Bar, and an Edwardian-style library with a Belle Époque fireplace. Generous outdoor spaces, attentive service, and a relaxed sailing pace combine to create a private, immersive experience where the traditions and spirit of the sea are fully celebrated.

Cabin layout for Star 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
Italy and France Small Ship CruiseSmall Ship Cruise
8 Days from
$387 AUD per day

or call us on

NZ Freephone
0800 945 3327

AUS Freephone
1800 107 715

to help you make your reservation

Get Our Latest Brochure

Featuring the latest small ship cruises to a number of destinations, our Small Ship Cruising brochure is carefully curated to include small ship cruises from expeditions to luxury cruises to the world's most fascinating destinations including Alaska, Croatia, the Galapagos and the Antarctic and Arctic.

Our Associates Include

Adventure Canada
Heritage
Hutigruten
Lindblad
Pandaw
Ponant
Uncruise
Variety
Poseidon Expeditions
Havila
Royal Galapagos
Polar Quest
Oceanwide
Silverseas