Day 1 — Nice, France

Arrive in Nice, and transfer to the port to embark the ship. (D)

Day 2 — Calvi, Corsica, France

Cruise first to the French island of Corsica, where you may join a guided walking tour of the town of Calvi including its Citadel, with stunning views over the sea and the houses below, and the house of Christopher Columbus, who is believed to have been born here. Or you may travel outside of the city to enjoy a panoramic drive through the natural beauty of the island's interior, or to snorkel off the beach of the Revellatta Peninsula. (B,L,D)

Day 3 — Propriano, Corsica, France

From the small marina-like harbor of Propriano, it is about an hour's drive to the fortress town of Bonifacio, perched on cliffs high above the sea.  Set off on foot into the labyrinthine streets of the medieval Citadel, visiting historic landmarks along the way. Stop at the old market where a viewpoint atop 230-foot-high cliffs offers panoramic views. For those who would prefer a day of relaxation, sun, and sand, shuttles will be available from the ship to Propriano's lovely beach. (B,L,D)

Day 4 — Porto Ercole, Italy

Porto Ercole on the Italian mainland is a seaside resort less well-known than some. But nestled between the lush green vegetation of Monte Argentario and the surreal blue of the Tyrrhenian Sea, it is a marvelous place to explore on foot. You may choose among options for walking tours on a variety of trails that lead to great views and to fortifications built by the Spanish to protect Tuscany from Ottoman attacks. (B,L,D)

Day 5 — Giglio Island, Italy

On the tiny island of Giglio, visit its main town, Giglio Castello, a member of the consortium of Borghi più belli d’Italia, "The Most Beautiful Villages in Italy." There are two ways for you to reach the village—by minivan or by hiking to the hilltop along paths lined with local flora. Whichever mode of transport you choose, your guide will lead you through the town and the fortress that gives it its name, followed by a tasting of local wines. (B,L,D)

Day 6 — Portoferraio, Elba, Italy

Trace European history from the Renaissance to Napoleon on the rugged island of Elba, just over six miles off the Tuscan coast. Dock in Portoferraio and visit Villa San Martino, Napolean's summer residence during his brief exile on the island.  Continue to the charming fishing village, Porto Azzurro.  Then travel through stunning scenery to a traditional wine farm to sample local wines, cheeses, and charcuteries. Alternatively, take a beautiful drive across Elba to visit Ottone Botanical Garden. (B,L,D)

Day 7 — Portofino, Italy

Portofino, once a small fishing village and now a favored haunt of the rich and famous, is fittingly located at the southern end of the Italian Riviera. Enjoy a guided tour of this iconic resort town, walking among the brightly colored houses and pausing for stunning views at the Portofino Promontory and at the lighthouse at Punto del Capo. Or, take to a kayak and paddle through the harbor and along the coast for a perspective on Portofino from the water. (B)

Day 8 — Saint-Florent, Corsica, France

Your final day of discovery is based in the port town of Saint-Florent on Corsica's north coast, where options include a panoramic drive through the rugged and beautiful landscapes of Cap Corse Peninsula; a nature walk through the aromatic gardens of oleander, cypress, rosemary, and wild olive in Saleccia Park; and a guided tour of the town of Saint-Florent, enclosed by walls built by the Genoese in the 15th century. (B,L,D)

Day 9 — Nice, France

Disembark in Nice, France and transfer to the airport for your flight home. (B)