Here are some of the best exclusive cruises embarking this summer:
Corsica’s Cap Corse (France)
Known as “le doigt,” or the finger, Cap Corse is a jet-black rocky peninsula at the top end of the island where Napoleon was born.
It’s dotted with picturesque villages, steep cliffs, vineyards, windmills, pink coral sandy beaches and grazing buffalo.
First stop on this catamaran cruise is Macinaggio, where the ruins of Santa Maria tower, bombed by Nelson’s fleet, rise from the sea.
Then there’s the fishing port of Centuri, renowned for its lobsters.
From the medieval St. Florent, the catamaran sails to the almost tropical beach of Saleccia, covered in palms and coconuts below the myrtle-scented wild Agriates Desert.
Sunsets are enhanced by glasses of Rappu passito wine, slices of brocciu cheese and figatelli, fennel-scented sausages.
Four days, from 800 euros ($930) per person. Departure from Scarlino (Tuscany). Sealand Yacht Charter; +39 0521 508275
Egadi Islands & Zingaro Reserve/Marsala (Italy)
A traditional gulet sailing boat is the best way to explore the inlets of these three atolls off Sicily’s western coast.
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The summit of Ravni Zakan rewards visitors with sunsets on pink-colored rocks.
Turquoise waters swarm with bright fish and there’s even a salted lake believed to have healing powers.
One week. From 700 euros per person. Port of departure: Sibenik or Zara; Sealand Yacht Charter; +39 0521 508275
Aeolian Islands & eastern Sicily (Italy)
This trip includes views and walks up the active Stromboli volcano.
On Alicudi and Filicudi, the farthest and wildest of the Aeolians, there are thousands of winding steps, ancient pathways and prickly pears.
Night skies over Alicudi are lit only by stars: there’s hardly any electricity and cars are banned.
“Donkey taxis” are the main means of transportation.
Filicudi — featuring the stunning Dugong Cave, the Rock of Fortune and La Canna stack — produces Italy’s best capers.
The cruise finishes on Sicily’s eastern coast, sailing from Taormina to Syracuse then up to Capo Passero, the southernmost tip renown for its top red wines.
Two weeks. From 1,500 euros per person. Departures from Palermo, Milazzo; Sealand Yacht Charter; +39 0521 508275
