Magical Amalfi Coast Discovery Aboard a Caicco

Within eyesight of the bustling port of Naples and the towering slopes of an ancient volcano, your orientation to Italy will begin in dramatic style. This introduction will outfit you for your 7-day excursion along the picturesque Italian coast. Your vehicle for this excursion will be the traditional Caicco, which is similar to those that plied the waves of the Gulf of Naples for centuries; however, this one will be outfitted with modern luxury. After a brief presentation from your charming tour manager, your first evening in Italy will be capped by a delicious three-course meal, featuring the finest ingredients in addition to being organized against a setting sun over the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Unlike some trips, you will not need to sacrifice enjoyment on days that you travel to your next destination. Today, the bow of your Caicco will be directed for Sorrento. As you begin cruising along the Sorrentine peninsula, your eyes will be met by stunning villa atop limestone cliffs that fall into the waves sea. This stretch of coast rivals any in the Mediterranean world. When you reach Sorrento, you will have the remainder of the day to explore the city and savor the limoncello for which the town is famous.

Rounding the end of the peninsula between Capri and the mainland, you will find yourself gazing down the length of the Amalfi Coast. Wrought by some geologic marvel, the terraced gardens and fertile highlands crash down into the water and are accentuated by beautiful pastel villages. After a memorable stop in a quiet cove to swim, you will step into one of these villages at Positano. Here, you will have time to explore the narrow lanes and plazas that are far too quaint for the noisy tour buses to reach.

After departing Positano, you will continue your cruise along the Amalfi Coast. Like a limestone quilt, the rugged coast folds in and out, hiding tiny villages and coves that are great for swimming and sunbathing. You will work up an appetite on a visit to the Fiordo di Furore and its Emerald Grotto before enjoying a trip to a secluded beach to enjoy the sun and waves. An onboard lunch will help fortify you in preparation for your arrival at the charming town of Amalfi, which was once a thriving maritime power that was virtually destroyed by an earthquake in the 14th century.

After bidding a fond ciao to Amalfi, your journey will continue Westward toward the towering cliffs of Capri. The island boasts some of the best views in the region and was an idyllic getaway for Roman emperors who sought a saltier climate. The Faraglioni rocks will welcome you with stunning vistas before you dock at the Marina Piccola to continue your adventure. As the sun sets on your first evening in Capri, you will be treated to a fresh seafood meal at one of the island's luxurious restaurants.

The early morning is a great time to explore Capri before the day trippers from the mainland arrive and the temperature intensifies. Before your departure, you will have the opportunity to explore the terraced gardens wreathed by Bougainvillea or the crumbling villas of previous royalty. The nearby Monte Solaro is the highest point on the island and offers visitors breathtaking panoramas of the Italian mainland. After hopping over to the Island of Ischia, you will sail across the mouth of the Bay of Naples before enjoying a well-earned dinner aboard your Caicco.

Your final full day on this tour will afford ample time to stop and smell flowers as you amble the alleys and secret gardens of Ischia. Protected by an imposing Aragonese castle, Ischia boasts a unique blend of history and culture that will dazzle your senses and delight your imagination. After a short stop on nearby Procida to enjoy the crystal-clear water, you will close the loop on your journey by returning to the Marina di Stabia at the foot of Mt. Vesuvius.

Dry land will feel unnatural after your 7-day cruise of Southern Italy. After savoring one final meal from your expert chef, you will exchange your traditional Caicco for a modern, private car to convey you home. As you transfer to the airport, you will feel satisfied in knowing that you have experienced what is best of this region.