Dubrovnik to Malaga

Ports

• Dubrovnik
  

  Dubrovnik (Pearl of the Adriatic) is one of the most prominent destinations in the Adriatic Sea. It lies in the region of Dalmatia and was awarded World Unesco Heritage status in 1979. The population is approximately 43,000 and is considered to be among the 10 best medieval walled cities in the world. SeaDream anchors off the walled city as a port of call and tenders directly to the town gate. If you check the land adventures here, you will find that there are many different excursions to consider in this incredible town. Dubrovnik is also an embarkation point on select voyages. On these occasions, the yacht is docked at the cruise terminal.

• Kotor
  

  Kotor is a coastal town in Montenegro. The old Mediterranean port of Kotor is surrounded by an impressive city wall built by the Republic of Venice and the Venetian influence remains dominant among the architectural influences. In 1979 the Bay of Kotor, City of Kotor and the surrounding territory have been listed in the UNESCO Heritage as a Cultural Site. SeaDream usually navigates close by the small islands of St. George and Our Lady of the Reef. The Bay of Kotor stretches 28 km and is one of the most indented parts of the Adriatic Sea. It is sometimes called the southern-most fjord in Europe (though it is actually a submerged river canyon called a ria). SeaDream typically docks steps away from the town. SeaDream has arranged a few different Yachting Land Adventures. One of them is a walking discovery and the other will show you the heritage and countryside of Montenegro. For the active guests, there’s incredible biking along the coast as well as a hike up to the fortress. On occasion, SeaDream may dock in the bay and tender directly to the town. We regret that watersports are not allowed in this protected area.

• At Sea
  

• Taormina (Etna) Sicily
  

  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. For the SeaDream active guests, office led hikes and bike rides could also transport you to Taormina town or continue 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. This “SeaDream Exclusive” Land Adventure requires a high minimum to operate, but it’s worth every penny! As we are anchored and if conditions allow, we will offer water sports both in the morning and in the afternoon. Multo Bene!

• Amalfi
  

  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.

• Capri
  

  Capri may very well be the most popular island on the planet. It is a beautiful Italian island in the Tyrrhenian Sea just off the Sorrentine Peninsula, on the south side of the Bay of Naples. Capri town is the island’s main population center. The island has two harbors, Marina Piccola and Marina Grande (the main port of the island). The separate village of Anacapri is located high on the hills to the west. From there, visitors can continue up to the highest point Mt. Solero. Besides some simply amazing shopping boutiques, the island has so much to offer including the famous Grotta Azzurra, Villa Jovis, Giardini di Augusto, Certosa di San Giacomo, Villa San Michele di Axel Munthe and the uniquely shaped Faraglioni rocks. SeaDream has put together most of the sights into one adventure called “Discovering the Island of Love” Kindly check the Land Adventures tab for more information. There’s also some great hikes available on the island, check with the activities team on board for details.

• Rome (Civitavecchia)
  

  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.

• Portovenere (Cinque Terre)
  

  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!

• Portofino
  

  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.

• Monte Carlo
  

  The Principality of Monaco is an independent sovereign state composed of four quarters Fontvieille (the newest), Monaco-Ville (the oldest), La Condamine, and Monte Carlo. Monte Carlo is widely known for its casino as well as the Monaco Grand Prix. Monte Carlo is one of Europe's leading tourist destinations as it simply has so much to offer. Some of the sights include the Cathédrale Paroisse, Eglise Sainte Dévôte, Jardin Exotique et Grottes de l'Observatoire, Monaco Top Cars Collection, Musée Océanographique and of course the Palace. SeaDream calls to Monte Carlo for embarkation and on certain voyages as a port of call typically docking along the new pier. There are a few occasions where the yacht may anchor offering tender service to the pier downtown or at Fontvieille. Kindly check the Land Adventures tab to see all of the options including transfers and private arrangements.

• Cannes
  

  Cannes is a well-known destination in the French Riviera that is home to many international festivals celebrating the arts, including Midem, Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, and the global film festival founded in 1946, the Cannes Film Festival. It’s the first European satellite manufacturer, home to the Cannes Mandelieu Space Center, as well as the headquarters for Thales Alenia Space. Originally a small fishing port heavily tied to the Lerins Islands, Cannes is most characterized by luxury, fame, and hosting conferences. Despite becoming a glamorous destination in the Côte d'Azur, the history of Cannes and the Lerins Islands was quite rocky. Cannes was initially named Aegitna, and established by the Ligurian tribe of Oxybii in the 2nd Century B.C. In 410 A.D. two monks settled on Lerina and established a monastery, housing several hundred monks by the 6th century. Out of fear of a Saracen invasion, Le Suquet was procured by the monks in the 11th century, which led to the birth and expansion on what became known as Cannes. Piracy remained a general problem and by the 12th century, the monastery was finally attacked by Saracen pirates, which further fueled insecurity. In 1520, when French King Francis I and Holy Roman Emperor Charles V declared war, Cannes became a passageway for their armies. The situation in Cannes would worsen when the great plague of 1579 annihilated much of the population. In 1635, the Spanish occupied the town for a couple of years before returning to Spain in 1707 for the War of Spanish Succession. It wasn’t until the 18th century where Cannes finally became tranquil and began flourishing in the 19th century. The economy for Cannes is sustained by business fairs, trade, tourism, and aviation. Points of interest include the Iles de Lerins, Marches Forville, Casino Croisette and Rue Meynadier. During the summer, from May to September, Cannes remains sunny for 12 hours a day. Its warm climate allows lemon, orange and olive trees to thrive, as well as fig, almond, oak, lotus and cypress trees. When sailing to Cannes, be sure to visit La Croisette and stroll along the white sandy beaches on this mile-long promenade where the very essence of this town thrives. SeaDream typically anchors so we can offer water sports to our valued guests. You may occasionally see the yacht docked alongside when we are chartered from the festival.

• St. Tropez
  

  St. Tropez located on the French Riviera quite simply may be the most famous resort town in Europe. It is a playground for the fashion models, athletes, movie stars, entertainers and other extremely wealthy summertime guests. There’s much to offer in this resort town, shopping, nightlife (Byblos hotel’s Les Caves du Roy nightclub) exceptional beach clubs such as Le Club 55 and Nikki Beach at Pampelonne. Nearby you can explore some of the hill towns and visit the award winning rose wineries. You can also visit neighboring Grimaud and Port Grimaud or just a little further out golf at a few highly rated courses. SeaDream anchors just off the break wall and tenders directly to the pier downtown.

• Cassis
  

  Cassis is a small port situated east of Marseille in the administrative department of the Bouches-du-Rhone in the Provence-Alpes-Cote d’Azur region in southern France. It is a very popular tourist destination and is famous for its steep cliffs (falaises) and the sheltered limestone inlets called calanques. The wines of Cassis are white and rose, and not to be confused with creme de cassis, a specialty of Burgundy which takes its name from blackcurrants (cassis), not the village here. SeaDream anchors in the bay and offer a land adventure to the impressive Aix en Provence. Other options are taking a local boat to the calanques, hiking along the coast, visiting some of the local vineyards, water sports, mountain biking or simply relaxing in a Balinese bed on the yacht.

• Barcelona
  

  Barcelona, a Unesco Awarded City, is the second largest in Spain. It was the 12th-most-visited city in the world, and 4th most visited in Europe after London, Paris, and Rome. Especially remarkable is the work of architect Antoni Gaudi, which can be seen throughout the city. His best-known work is the immense but still unfinished church of the Sagrada Familia, which has been under construction since 1882 and is still financed by private donations. Completion is planned for 2026. SeaDream almost always docks downtown at the World Trade Center and is steps away from the famous boulevard of La Rambla. SeaDream has several land adventure options for you, view voyages for the various activities to participate in.

• Tarragona
  

  In this bustling city, Roman history is mingled with gorgeous beaches, high-end bars, and a food setting that fills the boardwalks with unimaginable culinary aromas. Perhaps its biggest allures are the ruins of a seaside amphitheater and a mosaic-decorated museum, historical emblems made for inquisitive exploring. Don’t forget to savor the medieval center of Tarragona by visiting the towering Romanesque Cathedral and grab a bite at any eatery that tickles your taste buds.

• Valencia
  

  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”.

• Palma de Mallorca, Balearic Islands
  

  Situated on the southern coast of Mallorca, the largest city in the Balearic Islands archipelago is Palma. Mallorca’s cultural and economic hub is the 12th largest urban area in all of Spain. Palma has an area of 21.4 square kilometers, housing half the population of Mallorca and despite being compared to Barcelona and Florence, it is twinned with Naples, Italy. In 1983, Palma officially became the capital of the Balearic Islands. Originally founded by General Quintus Caecilius Metellus as a Roman camp in 123 B.C.E., the island of Mallorca was a part of the Tarraconensis province of Spain. The Romans established two ports, Pollentia to the northeast and Palma in the south. Palma was utilized as a port for Africa, while Pollentia was used for Roman cities in the northwest Mediterranean. Prior to the Muslim conquest and downfall of the Western Roman Empire, existed a period where the Byzantine Empire was on Mallorca. Due to the lack of documentation, the nature of this presence is unknown, but for the 10th century to 1229 A.D., Palma was under Islamic control as “Medina Mayurqa”. When James I of Aragon captured Palma in 1229, it was given municipality as “Cuitat de Mallorca”, and maintained as the capital of the Kingdom of Majorca. Perpignan and Palma became a joint capital of the Kingdom once James I of Aragon passed away. From 1229 onward, the foundations of Mallorcan society began to flourish, although various war-like events would soon take place. In 1391 began an anti-Jewish movement that forced the Jewish people to flee, convert, or be killed – actions that would ultimately be reinforced in the Inquisition. While the Revolt of 1450 was occurring, it was farmers that were then harassed. A river that divided the city would eventually spur social and economic issues as an Upper and Lower town of the city would be established. Mallorca was on the decline by the 16th century, and became a haven for pirates by the 17th century. Finally, the War of the Spanish Succession ended and destroyed the Crown of Aragon in 1714 when Barcelona fell. The city would eventually begin to thrive again as Charles III of Spain allowed commercial activity to bounce back by removing interdiction of commerce with the Spanish colonies in America. Once Algeria became occupied by France, fear of Maghredi attacks were eliminated, allowing further economic expansion with new maritime routes surfacing. Since 1950, Mallorca has become a prime tourist destination, growing from 600,000 visitors in 1960 to 19.2 million visitors by 2001. Tourists can view the old city, Arab baths, Palma Cathedral, Bellver Castle, or simply indulge in the beautiful Playa de S’amarador. For a glorious, picturesque scene of mountains, be sure to visit the Serra de Tramuntana and explore the UNESCO location overlooking the sea.

• Denia
  

  Dénia is a culturally diverse city on the Costa Blanca, situated on the northern edge of the Alicante province. It is halfway between Valencia and Alicante, and one of the oldest and most representative locations of the “Bous a la Mar” week-long festival (or “fiesta”) in July. Iberian ruins at Mt. Montgo represent evidence of prehistoric inhabitants in Dénia. In the 4th century, the town was a Greek colony of Marseille named “Hemeroscopion”, and allied with the Roman Empire during the Punic Wars. General Quintus Sertorius established a Roman naval base by the 1st century B.C.E. when the town was absorbed into the Roman Empire as “Dianum”. Once the Caliphate of Cordoba dissolved, after the Umayyad conquest of Hispania, Dénia became a Muslim kingdom known as the “Dénia Taifa”, created by a freed slave named Mujahid al-Siqlabi. The Muslim Arabs erected the castle fortress, which would later be rebuilt by the French in the 19th century during the Peninsular War. Dénia was captured by Christians in 1244 A.D., and the Muslim population was exiled. The town was declining, and eventually returned under the Crown of Aragon by 1455. Dénia continued to decline once the Expulsion of the Moriscos was ordered by King Philip III of Spain in 1609. The city fell to the French during the War of Spanish Succession, but once the Treaty of Utrecht declared Philip, Duke on Anjou as King of Spain in 1713, Dénia was returned to Spain. By 1803, Dénia was established as a trading port under the Spanish crown, and it began flourishing with its raisin exports. Dénia is known to be home to the iconic castle overlooking the city, which is now an archaeological museum with guided tours that guests love to visit. Since the 1960’s, the fishing and tourism market has made this port a thriving attraction, offering rich history, and other outdoor activities. Tourists can visit Macizo del Montgo Natural Park, Playa de las Marinas, and of course, visit the castle.

• Cartagena
  

  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.

• Puerto Banus, Marbella
  

  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. Several club members arrange a gathering with the local Ferrari Club and line up 20 or so Italian iconic automobiles along the pier. Just sit back and watch the scenery – awesome!

• Gibraltar
  

  Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory located at the entrance of the Mediterranean on the southern end of the Iberian Peninsula. Most visitors arriving by sea are impressed by the rock’s enormous visual impact. Only covering an area of 2.3 square miles (6.0 sq. km.) several sites are a must-see! Some of the “can’t miss” options include the Great Siege Tunnels, St. Michael’s Cave, The Moorish Castle, The Lighthouse at Europa Point and shopping – yes shopping. SeaDream docks at the passenger terminal and has the coaches for the land adventures just outside. It is an easy walk downtown to the duty-free area. Bikes are available should you want to bike up the rock.

• Malaga
  

  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.