Day 1 — Barcelona, Spain

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

Day 2 — Eclipse Day: Palma de Mallorca, Mallorca, Balearic Islands

A relaxing morning of sailing brings you to Mallorca, the largest of the Balearic Islands. Here, limestone cliffs plunge into the sea and almond orchards and vineyards blanket the plains of the interior. Step into history on a tour of Palma de Mallorca, the cosmopolitan capital of the archipelago. Admire the Catalan Gothic architecture of the magnificent sandstone Palma Cathedral, constructed over 300 years beginning in 1230, and take in the view from the hilltop Bellver Castle. This evening, conditions permitting, experience the total solar eclipse from the comfort of the ship, witnessing the transformation of land and sea as totality is reached at 8:31 p.m. Soon after, watch the sunset and toast the eclipse at dinner tonight.  (B,L,D)

Day 3 — Ciutadella, Menorca, Balearic Islands

The easternmost of Spain’s autonomous Balearic Islands, Menorca is edged in beautiful beaches and rocky coves. Drive across the island to Ciutadella, a city founded by the Carthaginians that served as the island's capital until 1772. A walking tour of the city's old town reveals a treasure trove of architectural styles, including a Gothic cathedral and well-preserved palaces built by British nobility in the 17th and 18th centuries.Alternatively, travel inland to Binissues to visit a living museum where traditional farm life in Menorca is recreated on the estate of the local lord.  (B,L,D) 

Day 4 — Alghero, Sardinia, Italy

Perched on clifftops above the sea, the fishing port of Alghero on Sardinia's northern coast is a lovely fishing town known as “Barcelonetta” for its strong Catalan legacy dating back to the Middle Ages. Meander along its picturesque cobblestoned streets and fortifications, and visit the 14th-century Church of San Francesco and the Cattedrale di Santa Maria. Then board a coach for a panoramic drive along the coast to Capo Caccia, where a craggy limestone headland juts into the sea. Along the way, pass through landscapes dotted with nuraghi, the prehistoric monumental towers that are found all over the island. (B,L,D) 

Day 5 — Calvin, Corsica, France

Dock in the port of L'Ile-Rousse on Corsica’s northern coast and journey to Calvi, once a Genoese stronghold and now a picturesque seaside town. On a guided walking tour, explore the 15th-century Citadel, which offers views of the city and the sea beyond, as well as the Place d'Armes and the Cathedral Saint Jean Baptiste. Step into the house of Christopher Colombus, who is believed to have been born in Calvi. Then make your way to the lower town and the Quay Landry for a stroll along the café-lined promenade and the lively marina. (B,L,D) 

Day 6 — Portoferraio, Elba, Italy

Trace European history from the Renaissance to Napoleon on the rugged island of Elba, only 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 former Spanish port of Porto Azzurro and visit a traditional wine farm to sample local wines, cheeses, and charcuteries. Alternatively, take a beautiful drive across Elba to see the exotic species cultivated at the Ottone Botanical Garden. (B,L,D)

Day 7 — Porto Ercole

Your first port of call on mainland Italy is the Porto Ercole, a harbor town on the small peninsula of Argentariothat is nestled between the lush vegetation of Monte Argentario and the azure Tyrrhenian Sea. Set off on foot to explore, choosing from a variety of walking tours and trails that lead to viewpoints or fortifications built by the Spanish to protect against the Ottomans. (B,L,D)

Day 8 — Portofino

Cruise past the elegant resort towns that dot the rugged shores of the Italian Riviera. Anchor in the picturesque fishing village of Portofino, and take a walking tour of its winding lanes, lined with houses painted in warm hues. Then enjoy time at leisure to explore this magical spot on your own. (B) 

Day 9 — Nice, France

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