Star Collector: Iconic Italy And Croatia

No other sea approach in the Adriatic raises goose bumps like Venice, a small ship exclusive where the entire city and its lagoon are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On your luxurious home-away-from home, you arrive already equipped with a sense of what it's like to live in the city that's neither land nor water. Add your own sigh to the Bridge of Sighs, sip a spritz al bitter as you plot your agenda, and let the water taxis do your navigating unless you don't mind getting lost. Not such a bad prospect, with serendipitous discoveries around every corner.

The lovely fishing port of Rovinj on the west coast of the Istrian peninsula bordered on three sides by the Adriatic Sea. You can tour the maze of cobblestone streets that lead to the hilltop St. Euphemia Cathedral with its towering steeple dominating the skyline. Old Town Rovinj is a delightful tangle of medieval streets and twisting stairways. Seek out the Bronze Age ruins of Monkodonja, the hidden beaches or the breathtaking natural beauty of the 6-mile-long Lim Fjord.

Split welcomes you with open arms, Mediterranean style, and a bustling harbor lined with busy cafés. Beyond, looms stately Diocletian's Palace a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the center of town. Within the palace walls, a majestic cathedral soars, surrounded by polished marble streets lined with every type of tempting shop. If you're longing for a quiet respite, head for the western end of town for an easy stroll through a verdant mountain park. Or take an optional tour to Trogir, another UNESCO site.

While larger ships must pass by, we anchor right beyond the famous walled city so you can admire its beauty with every glance. Tender ashore and step right into Old Town, a UNESCO site where no cars are allowed, just eons of history. Capture the exhilarating views on your camera - and in your memory. End your day at the Buza Café (if you can find it) watching bold divers leap off the cliffs into the crystalline sea. 

This is one of Montenegro's most beautiful bays, and the approach offers one breathtaking fjord-like view after another. Just when you've reached your fill of blues and greens, the bright red rooftops of the medieval Old Town come into view. The entire area has been proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The charming streets of Old Town remain car free, filled with 12th century Baroque palaces and Romanesque churches. For a fresh perspective, climb to the fortress on the hill for a breathtaking vista. 

This small ship exclusive port has a mix of beautiful beaches and gorgeous landmarks.  The town's main attraction is the Otranto Cathedral, famous for its intricate 12th-century mosaic floor, rose windows, and the Chapel of the Martyrs. The nearby beaches, like Baia dei Turchi, are renowned for their crystal-clear waters, perfect for an afternoon swim.

SEAD

The cobblestone streets of Messina, Sicily, are the perfect launching point for an optional visit to nearby Taormina. Stroll along flower-filled streets in search of a delightful lunch or an artist's palette of colorful gelati. The ancient Greek Theater is an ideal place to sit back and admire shimmering waters below and Mount Etna, languidly smoking in the distance.

Vibo Valentia, situated in the Calabria region of southern Italy, is a captivating destination rich in history and natural beauty. Perched on a hilltop, the town offers stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the surrounding landscape. Norman-Swabian Castle, home to the State Archaeological Museum, showcases artifacts from the ancient Greek city of Hipponion. The town is characterized by charming streets, vibrant piazzas, and notable churches like the Santa Maria Maggiore. Nearby, the scenic Capo Vaticano offers stunning coastline views with rugged cliffs and pristine beaches.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites abound in Sorrento.   Optional tours will take you to the archaeological areas of Pompeii and Torre Annunziata, or the 4th century B.C. city of Herculaneum. Perhaps your choice will be a boat ride to Positano, the legendary home of the Sirens. Perched on a terrace on the spectacular Amalfi Coast, Sorrento offers exceptional views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius. 

UNESCO World Heritage Sites abound in Sorrento.   Optional tours will take you to the archaeological areas of Pompeii and Torre Annunziata, or the 4th century B.C. city of Herculaneum. Perhaps your choice will be a boat ride to Positano, the legendary home of the Sirens. Perched on a terrace on the spectacular Amalfi Coast, Sorrento offers exceptional views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius. 

In this enchanting city the past and present intersect in perfect harmony. Casually intermingled among ancient ruins and majestic cathedrals are the trappings of a modern metropolis: Skyscrapers,cafes, boutiques selling designer footwear. But of course what you seek first in the heart of Rome is its breathtaking history.  A good place to begin is the Vatican, with its Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica. Works by Bernini, Michelangelo, Caravaggio, and Raphael are just a few of those on display, any one of which is worth hours of contemplation. Then the ancient ruins-Colosseum, Forum, Circus Maximus. And of course the Trevi Fountain for the obligatory coins promising your return to the Eternal City.

Bonifacio, located on the southern tip of Corsica, is renowned for its dramatic limestone cliffs and medieval citadel. The town's ancient fortifications and narrow, cobbled streets offer a glimpse into its rich history. Bonifacio's picturesque marina is filled with colorful yachts and cafes, providing stunning views of the Mediterranean. Notable sites include the King of Aragon's Staircase, carved into the cliffside, the Old Town, and Sartene, an ancient hillside community dating back to the 16th century.

Alghero, Sardinia is a small ship exclusive. This charming coastal city in northwestern Sardinia, is often referred to as "Little Barcelona". It features cobblestone streets, vibrant piazzas, and the imposing Alghero Cathedral. The city's old town, enclosed by ancient walls, is filled with lively markets, seafood restaurants, and boutiques. Alghero's coastline offers stunning beaches and clear, turquoise waters, and the nearby Neptune's Grotto, a spectacular sea cave, is a popular attraction. Alghero is also known for its coral jewelry; you'll be able to find coral pieces constructed by local artisans in many of the shops.

Golfo Aranci, located on Sardinia's northeastern coast, is a picturesque town known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. The town is surrounded by nature reserves, making it perfect for bird and marine life watching. Golfo Aranci is also a great spot for diving, snorkeling, and other water sports. The promenade is lined with seafood restaurants and cafes, offering delicious local cuisine.

In this enchanting city the past and present intersect in perfect harmony. Casually intermingled among ancient ruins and majestic cathedrals are the trappings of a modern metropolis: Skyscrapers,cafes, boutiques selling designer footwear. But of course what you seek first in the heart of Rome is its breathtaking history.  A good place to begin is the Vatican, with its Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica. Works by Bernini, Michelangelo, Caravaggio, and Raphael are just a few of those on display, any one of which is worth hours of contemplation. Then the ancient ruins-Colosseum, Forum, Circus Maximus. And of course the Trevi Fountain for the obligatory coins promising your return to the Eternal City.