Day 1: Southampton, United Kingdom

Day 2: At Sea

Day 3: Vigo, Spain

Situated on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, and with one of the world’s finest natural ports, the Galician gem of Vigo has been an important part of Spain’s maritime industry for centuries. Boasting a wonderful historic quarter, modern marina and pretty centre, this city is alive with attractions.The historic old quarter – like many of Vigo’s other attractions – is a great example of the influence the sea has had on the city. Located around the port, the Cidade Vella has narrow streets lined with old fishing houses and large markets selling locally caught seafood. The Collegiate Church of Santa Maria is a neoclassical cathedral built on the site of a grand gothic church that was burnt down by Francis Drake.In the newer part of town, La Colegiata de la Santa Maria la Mayor is a fine 16th century church with an authentic Renaissance façade. The Pazo de Castrelos, dating from the 17th century, is home to the Quiñones de León Municipal Museum and contains a vast collection of paintings and artefacts that demand discovery. Elsewhere, the Castro de Vigo archaeological site has reconstructed ancient dwellings.Vigo is a firm favourite with many visitors. Its mild climate, renowned estuary and golden beaches of the Rías Baixas, fine mariscada (seafood platter) cuisine and expansive culture all add up to something very special.

Days 4 & 5: At Sea

Day 6: Mahon (Menorca), Spain

Mahon is the capital of the Spanish island of Menorca. The city, situated on the east coast of the island, has a population of 31,000 and is most famous for its natural deep-water harbour, which stretches five kilometres inland and is one of the largest in the world. Mahon is easy to explore by foot. As you wander the streets, you’ll discover traces of the various civilisations that have passed through the town.

Santa María Church, with its ornate 19th century organ, is worth discovery on central Plaça de la Constitució, and City Hall has a Renaissance facade and a clock donated by the island’s first British governor. The Menorca Museum displays art and exhibits on the island's history.

From Mahón the true beauty of Menorca – its sleepy fishing villages, stunning beaches and Monte Toro, the island’s highest peak – is all waiting to be uncovered.

Day 7: Propriano, France

Day 8: Sorrento, Italy

Fronted by glorious blue waters and surrounded by deep valleys, rugged cliffs and soaring mountains; Sorrento looks simply breathtaking as you glide along the Amalfi Coast towards the town. Once ashore, be sure to look back across the Bay of Naples to savour the incredible views of Capri Island and Mount Vesuvius.

Sorrento’s charming streets are an absolute delight to explore in search of an abundance of attractions and historic structures, many of which date back to Roman times. The Cathedral, St. Francis Monastery and the Basilica di Sant’Antonino are not-to-be-missed; while the Villa Pollio Roman ruins, Archaeological Museum and Puntacampanella Nature Reserve are well worth a visit too. You’ll also discover hundreds of tourist-centric shops, lovely cafes and fine restaurants.

Sorrento is also ideally placed for tours to the UNESCO-listed towns of Herculaneum and Pompei, which were both famously destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD79.

Day 9: Salerno, Italy

Situated between two of Italy’s most beautiful and best-known destinations, the Amalfi Coast and Cilento National Park, the lively city of Salerno is – perhaps unsurprisingly, but not justifiably – overlooked by many visitors to, and explorers of, the gorgeous Campania region.

However, the loss of the ‘over lookers’ is certainly the gain of those who do take the time to visit and explore Salerno; there are centuries of rich history – influenced by the Romans, Goths and Byzantines – to delve into here, landmarks, monuments and museums and aplenty awaiting discovery, and authentic local life to immerse yourself in.

Whether you choose to see the medieval churches and capture the gritty elegance of the neighbourhood trattorias; sample traditional cuisine at the finest restaurants, or people watch at one of the cafés over a proper Italian espresso; or take a stroll along the picturesque, tree-lined promenade, Salerno is sure to get under your skin.

Day 10: Amalfi, Italy

The stunning UNESCO-listed town of Amalfi, with its incredible scenery, charming narrow streets, medieval architecture and delightful marina is the heart of Italy’s glorious Amalfi Coast. Situated within a deep ravine at the foot of the 4,314ft-high Monte Cerreto, Amalfi is on many people’s must-see list. It's dearth of notable historical buildings is because most of the old city, and its populace, dropped into the Mediterranean during an earthquake in 1343.

However, the past can still be experienced through the Arab-Romanesque architecture of Amalfi’s Sant'Andrea Cathedral, with its striking Byzantine facade; the Museo Arsenale, a medieval shipyard converted to an exhibition space; and the magnificent Moorish-style Cloister of Paradise. The intriguing Paper Mill Museum is also visit worthy. The town’s network of narrow streets are lined with an array of smart cafes and restaurants serving the finest local cuisine. The picturesque harbour is also perfect for exploring and strolling.

Days 11 & 12: At Sea

Day 13: Cádiz, Spain

Cadiz, one of Europe's most ancient cities, hugs Andalusia’s sunlit Atlantic coast and is characterised by palm trees, lookout towers and weathered old buildings. Now into its fourth millennium, Cádiz's fascinating Old Town district features huge stone walls from the 1500s and is home to a wealth of historic highlights, including the beautifully crafted 18th century Cádiz Cathedral.

Boasting over 100 watchtowers, including the iconic Torre Tavira, traditionally used for spotting ships; traditional tapas bars serving delicious traditional cuisine and local seafood; and fascinating maritime history; Cádiz offers a plethora of authentic sights and experiences. The winding streets assume the feel of a carnival, packed-out with friendly locals and humming to the sounds of upbeat alegrías (flamenco songs).

Cádiz is also the gateway to the stunning city of Seville, with its maze of courtyards, atmosphere old quarters and ornate churches and cathedrals.

Days 14 & 15: At Sea

Day 16: Southampton, United Kingdom