Highlights of the Ionian

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and final morning in Athens before checking out and boarding the Ritz-Carlton Yacht, Ilma, home for the next week and a perfect fusion of the finest Ritz-Carlton service and exclusive small ship luxury . Setting sail at 6pm the journey will being with a voyage along the Greek coastline and Ionian Sea.

Corfu the greenest of all the Greek Islands pairs natural beauty with a richly layered past. Wander the UNESCO-listed Old Town, where elegant arcades and Venetian architecture frame the magnificent Esplanade, before discovering regal Achillion Palace and Mon Repos. Beyond the town, olive and orange groves sweep towards the ocean. For a more leisurely escape, explore the sheltered coves and crystalline waters of Paleokastritsa, famed to be where Odysseus was washed ashore and offering an idyllic taste of this captivating Ionian island.

Sailing into the fjord-like Bay of Kotor is a memorable introduction to Montenegro’s dramatic natural beauty. Within its Venetian ramparts, the UNESCO-listed Old Town reveals historic landmarks such as the 12th-century Cathedral of St. Tryphon and the Maritime Museum which showcases a proud maritime heritage. Climb to St. John’s Fortress for sweeping views, or take a gentler boat journey to Our Lady of the Rocks church , a tiny islet set serenely upon the bay.

Dubrovnik’s terracotta rooftops, emerald hills and brilliant Adriatic setting create a scene of enduring splendour and stark contrast. Encircled by formidable medieval walls, the UNESCO-listed Old Town is a treasure trove of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque churches, palaces and fountains. Easily explored by foot, stroll the ancient ramparts for remarkable coastal views and discover the storied streets that earned this beautifully preserved city its celebrated title, the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’ that have survived sieges over the centuries.

Sun-drenched Hvar blends effortless glamour with authentic island character. Beyond its yacht-lined harbour and stylish waterfront, lavender fields and vineyards unfold across the landscape. Explore elegant Hvar Town, admire the UNESCO-recognised lacework created by Benedictine nuns for over 150 years, or discover the timeless Stari Grad Plain. A climb to the historic fortress is richly rewarded with panoramic views across the terracotta rooftops and the shimmering Adriatic beyond, a site that definitely should not be missed.

One of Croatia’s oldest cities, ancient Zadar unfolds along a graceful waterfront, its walled Old Town occupying a peninsula steeped in culture. Within the Venetian fortifications, discover a Roman Forum, Byzantine church and 12th-century Romanesque cathedral amid a maze of narrow streets, the Old Town and the mainland are linked by a pedestrian bridge but tread the path of a bygone era and journey between the sea gate and the marina by rowing boat. As evening approaches, settle into an atmospheric café or waterfront restaurant and watch the city’s celebrated sunset cast a golden glow across the Adriatic, a fitting finale to the day.

Rising elegantly from its lagoon, Venice is a masterpiece of canals, bridges and storied palazzi. Glide beneath the Rialto Bridge by gondola, then admire St. Mark’s Basilica and the Gothic splendour of the Doge’s Palace. World-class collections await at the Gallerie dell’Accademia and Peggy Guggenheim Collection, while nearby Murano and Burano preserve the traditions of exquisite glassmaking and artisan lace. Here you will leave the stunning Ilma behind and you will be transferred by private water taxi to The Gritti Palace for a three-night post-cruise stay. Located in the most perfect position on the Grand Canal, the hotel embodies Venice of the past, and has retained the feel of an elegant private residence. Three nights here will allow more than enough time to explore this fascinating city.

Bid a fond farewell to Venice and enjoy your private water taxi transfer to the airport for your return journey home.