Itinerary
On one of the best stretches of the Mediterranean, this classic luxury destination is one of the most sought-after addresses in the world. With all the high-rise towers you have to look hard to find the Belle Époque grace of yesteryear. But if you head to the town’s great 1864 landmark Hôtel de Paris—still a veritable crossroads of the buffed and befurred Euro-gentry—or enjoy a grand bouffe at its famous Louis XV restaurant, or attend the opera, or visit the ballrooms of the casino, you may still be able to conjure up Monaco’s elegant past. Prince Albert II, a political science graduate from Amherst College, traces his ancestry to Otto Canella, who was born in 1070. The Grimaldi dynasty began with Otto’s great-great-great-grandson, Francesco Grimaldi, also known as Frank the Rogue. Expelled from Genoa, Frank and his cronies disguised themselves as monks and in 1297 seized the fortified medieval town known today as Le Rocher (the Rock). Except for a short break under Napoléon, the Grimaldis have been here ever since, which makes them the oldest reigning family in Europe. In the 1850s a Grimaldi named Charles III made a decision that turned the Rock into a giant blue chip. Needing revenue but not wanting to impose additional taxes on his subjects, he contracted with a company to open a gambling facility. The first spin of the roulette wheel was on December 14, 1856. There was no easy way to reach Monaco then—no carriage roads or railroads—so no one came. Between March 15 and March 20, 1857, one person entered the casino—and won two francs. In 1868, however, the railroad reached Monaco, and it was filled with Englishmen who came to escape the London fog. The effects were immediate. Profits were so great that Charles eventually abolished all direct taxes. Almost overnight, a threadbare principality became an elegant watering hole for European society. Dukes (and their mistresses) and duchesses (and their gigolos) danced and dined their way through a world of spinning roulette wheels and bubbling champagne—preening themselves for nights at the opera, where such artists as Vaslav Nijinsky, Sarah Bernhardt, and Enrico Caruso came to perform. Along with the tax system, its sensational position on a broad, steep peninsula that bulges into the Mediterranean—its harbor sparkling with luxury cruisers, its posh mansions angling awnings toward the nearly perpetual sun—continues to draw the rich and famous. One of the latest French celebrities to declare himself “Monégasque,” thus giving up his French passport, is superchef Alain Ducasse, who said that he made the choice out of affection for Monaco rather than tax reasons. Pleasure boats vie with luxury cruisers in their brash beauty and Titanic scale, and teams of handsome young men—themselves dyed blond and tanned to match—scour and polish every gleaming surface. As you might expect, all this glitz doesn’t come cheap. Eating is expensive, and even the most modest hotels cost more here than in nearby Nice or Menton. As for taxis, they don’t even have meters so you are completely at the driver’s mercy (with prices skyrocketing during events such as the Grand Prix). For the frugal, Monaco is the ultimate day-trip, although parking is as coveted as a room with a view. At the very least you can afford a coffee at Starbucks. The harbor district, known as La Condamine, connects the new quarter, officially known as Monte Carlo with Monaco-Ville (or Le Rocher), a medieval town on the Rock, topped by the palace, the cathedral, and the Oceanography Museum. Have no fear that you’ll need to climb countless steps to get to Monaco-Ville, as there are plenty of elevators and escalators climbing the steep cliffs. But shuttling between the lovely casino grounds of Monte Carlo and Old Monaco, separated by a vast port, is a daunting proposition for ordinary mortals without wings, so hop on the No. 1 bus from Saint Roman, or No. 2 from the Jardin Exotique – Both stop at Place du Casino and come up to Monaco Ville.
At first glance, it really doesn’t look all that impressive. There’s a pretty port with cafés charging €5 for a coffee and a picturesque old town in sugared-almond hues, but there are many prettier in the hills nearby. There are sandy beaches, rare enough on the Riviera, and old-fashioned squares with plane trees and pétanque players, but these are a dime a dozen throughout Provence. So what made St-Tropez an internationally known locale? Two words: Brigitte Bardot. When this pulpeuse (voluptuous) teenager showed up in St-Tropez on the arm of Roger Vadim in 1956 to film And God Created Woman, the heads of the world snapped around. Neither the gentle descriptions of writer Guy de Maupassant (1850–93), nor the watercolor tones of Impressionist Paul Signac (1863–1935), nor the stream of painters who followed (including Matisse and Bonnard) could focus the world’s attention on this seaside hamlet as did this one sensual woman in a scarf, Ray-Bans, and capris. Vanity Fair ran a big article, “Saint Tropez Babylon,” detailing the over-the-top petrodollar parties, megayachts, and Beyoncé–d paparazzi. But don’t be turned off: the next year, Stewart, Tabori & Chang released an elegant coffee-table book, Houses of St-Tropez, packed with photos of supremely tasteful and pretty residences, many occupied by fashion designers, artists, and writers. Once a hangout for Colette, Anaïs Nin, and Françoise Sagan, the town still earns its old moniker, the “Montparnasse of the Mediterranean.” Yet you might be surprised to find that this byword for billionaires is so small and insulated. The lack of train service, casinos, and chain hotels keeps it that way. Yet fame, in a sense, came too fast for St-Trop. Unlike the chic resorts farther east, it didn’t have the decades-old reputation of the sort that would attract visitors all year around. For a good reason: its location on the south side of the gulf puts it at the mercy of the terrible mistral winter winds. So, in summer the crowds descend and the prices rise into the stratosphere. In July and August, you must be carefree about the sordid matter of cash. After all, at the most Dionysian nightclub in town, a glass of tap water goes for $37 and when the mojo really gets going, billionaires think nothing of “champagne-spraying” the partying crowds—think World Series celebrations but with $1,000 bottles of Roederer Cristal instead of Gatorade. Complaining about summer crowds, overpricing, and lack of customer service has become a tourist sport and yet this is what makes St-Tropez—described by the French daily newspaper Le Figaro as the place you can see “the greatest number of faces per square meter”—as intriguing as it is seductive.
The fishing village of Sète serves as gateway to Montpellier, in the North. Other noteworthy destinations in this area include Carcassone, Aigues Mortes, the Abbaye de Fontfroide, and Pezenas. For a look at the real fisherman’s life, however, stay right where you are. Sète is the Mediterranean’s biggest fishing port. Canals winding through town make it fun to stroll around, and there are a number of good walking paths leading to the beach (about 30 minutes to the west). Although it’s small and unspectacular, Plage de la Corniche has calm, pristine waters that are perfect for swimming. For a panoramic view of the area, climb Mont St-Clair or Les Pierres Blanches and pick a beach to settle down on.
The capital of Menorca since 1721, Mahon has a impressive natural deep water harbour, which is one of the largest in the world. This, coupled with its strategic location, has made it a stronghold for many nations throughout history. Mahon has an abundance of historical buildings, the oldest being the Arch of Saint Roc which is all that remains of the wall that once encircled the whole town. The island was occupied by the British during the 18th century and Lord Nelson is thought to have stayed there. Indeed, San Antoni Mansion, located on the north side of the harbour, houses a collection of Nelson memorabilia. The legacy of colonial rule can be seen in the muted Georgian style of some of the buildings, but Mahon still boasts attractive examples of neo-Classical, Baroque and Romanesque architecture. With narrow streets to explore, pleasant shaded squares and welcoming pavement cafés, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Please be aware that most shops in town close for a siesta between 1330 and 1730.
The infinite variety of street life, the nooks and crannies of the medieval Barri Gòtic, the ceramic tile and stained glass of Art Nouveau facades, the art and music, the throb of street life, the food (ah, the food!)—one way or another, Barcelona will find a way to get your full attention. The capital of Catalonia is a banquet for the senses, with its beguiling mix of ancient and modern architecture, tempting cafés and markets, and sun-drenched Mediterranean beaches. A stroll along La Rambla and through waterfront Barceloneta, as well as a tour of Gaudí’s majestic Sagrada Famíliaand his other unique creations, are part of a visit to Spain’s second-largest city. Modern art museums and chic shops call for attention, too. Barcelona’s vibe stays lively well into the night, when you can linger over regional wine and cuisine at buzzing tapas bars.
MAGNIFICENT OCEAN VIEWS – Large private terrace overlooking the ocean, with private whirlpool
SPACIOUS SUITE ACCOMMODATIONS – Luxurious and modern living and dining area, Luxury custom king bed sleep system, Double vanity bathrooms
DEDICATED PERSONAL ASSISTANT – Dedicated Personal Assistant is your single onboard touch point to ensure a flawless, seamless journey from beginning to end, 24-hour in-suite dining, state of the art espresso machine, complimentary coffee and teas, and a fully stocked refrigerator
BED & BATH – Luxury custom king sleep system, Double vanity bathroom with modern, sleek bathtub and separate shower, Second bathroom with modern, sleek shower system, Luxury bed and bath linens created exclusively for The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
SUITE FEATURES – Private, spacious terrace overlooking the ocean, Luxurious and modern living and dining area, Walk-in wardrobe, Convertible sleep sofa
SERVICES AND AMENITIES – 24-hour in-suite dining, Luxury bath amenities & individual robe and slippers, Complimentary WiFi, Choice of complimentary chilled bottle of Champagne or wine upon arrival, State of the art espresso machine, with complimentary coffee and teas, Digital flat screen smart television, In-suite safe, Vanity mirror, Hair dryer, Hypoallergenic pillows upon request, 220v and 110v outlets, as well as USB charging capabilities, Set of high-zoom binoculars.
MAGNIFICENT OCEAN VIEWS – Dramatic floor to ceiling glass throughout, Private terrace overlooking the ocean
SPACIOUS SUITE ACCOMMODATIONS – Luxurious and modern living and dining area, Luxury custom king bed sleep system, Double vanity bathrooms
DEDICATED PERSONAL ASSISTANT – Dedicated Personal Assistant is your single onboard touch point to ensure a flawless, seamless journey from beginning to end, 24-hour in-suite dining, state of the art espresso machine, complimentary coffee and teas, and a fully stocked refrigerator
BED & BATH – Luxury custom king bed sleep system, Double vanity bathroom, Modern, sleek bathtub with separate shower, Luxury bed and bath linens created exclusively for The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
SUITE FEATURES – Private, spacious terrace overlooking the ocean, Convertible sleep sofa
SERVICES AND AMENITIES – 24-hour in-suite dining, Luxury bath amenities & individual robe and slippers, Complimentary WiFi, Choice of complimentary chilled bottle of Champagne or wine upon arrival, State of the art espresso machine, with complimentary coffee and teas, Digital flat screen smart television, In-suite safe, Vanity mirror, Hair dryer, Hypoallergenic pillows, upon request, 220v and 110v outlets, as well as USB charging capabilities
MAGNIFICENT OCEAN VIEWS – Private terrace overlooking the ocean on the upper level, Picture window on the lower level
SPACIOUS SUITE ACCOMMODATIONS – Innovative two story suite, Luxurious and modern living and dining area on the upper level, Luxury custom king bed sleep system on the lower level, Double vanity bathrooms
DEDICATED PERSONAL ASSISTANT – Dedicated Personal Assistant is your single onboard touch point to ensure a flawless, seamless journey from beginning to end, 24-hour in-suite dining, state of the art espresso machine, complimentary coffee and teas, and a fully stocked refrigerator
BED & BATH – Luxury custom king bed sleep system on the lower level, Double vanity master bathroom on the lower level, plus a powder room on the upper level, Modern, sleek bathtub with separate shower, Luxury bed and bath linens created exclusively for The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
SUITE FEATURES – Innovative two story suite, Private, spacious terrace overlooking the ocean on the upper level, Luxurious and modern living and dining area on the upper level, Convertible sleep sofa on the upper level
SERVICES AND AMENITIES – 24-hour in-suite dining, Luxury bath amenities & individual robe and slippers, Complimentary WiFi, Choice of complimentary chilled bottle of Champagne or wine upon arrival, State of the art espresso machine, with complimentary coffee and teas, Digital flat screen smart television, In-suite safe, Vanity mirror, Hair dryer, Hypoallergenic pillows, upon request, 220v and 110v outlets, as well as USB charging capabilities
MAGNIFICENT OCEAN VIEWS – Private terrace overlooking the ocean
SPACIOUS SUITE ACCOMMODATIONS – Luxury custom king bed sleep system, Double vanity bathrooms
DEDICATED PERSONAL ASSISTANT – Dedicated Personal Assistant is your single onboard touch point to ensure a flawless, seamless journey from beginning to end, 24-hour in-suite dining, state of the art espresso machine, complimentary coffee and teas, and a fully stocked refrigerator
BED & BATH – Luxury custom king bed sleep system, Double vanity bathroom, Modern, sleek bathtub and shower system, Luxury bed and bath linens created exclusively for The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
SUITE FEATURES – Private, spacious terrace overlooking the ocean, Luxurious and modern living and dining area, Dual walk-in wardrobes
SERVICES AND AMENITIES – 24-hour in-suite dining, Luxury bath amenities & individual robe and slippers, Complimentary WiFi, Choice of complimentary chilled bottle of Champagne or wine upon arrival, State of the art espresso machine, with complimentary coffee and teas, Digital flat screen smart television, In-suite safe, Vanity mirror, Hair dryer, Hypoallergenic pillows, upon request, 220v and 110v outlets, as well as USB charging capabilities
MAGNIFICENT OCEAN VIEWS – Private terrace overlooking the ocean
SPACIOUS SUITE ACCOMMODATIONS – Luxury custom king bed sleep system, Double vanity bathrooms
DEDICATED PERSONAL ASSISTANT – Dedicated Personal Assistant is your single onboard touch point to ensure a flawless, seamless journey from beginning to end, 24-hour in-suite dining, state of the art espresso machine, complimentary coffee and teas, and a fully stocked refrigerator
BED & BATH – Luxury custom king bed sleep system, Double vanity bathroom, Modern, sleek bathtub with separate shower, Luxury bed and bath linens created exclusively for The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
SUITE FEATURES – Private, spacious terrace overlooking the ocean, Luxurious and modern living and dining area, Convertible sleep sofa
SERVICES AND AMENITIES – 24-hour in-suite dining, Luxury bath amenities & individual robe and slippers, Complimentary WiFi, Choice of complimentary chilled bottle of Champagne or wine upon arrival, State of the art espresso machine, with complimentary coffee and teas, Digital flat screen smart television, In-suite safe, Vanity mirror, Hair dryer, Hypoallergenic pillows, upon request, 220v and 110v outlets, as well as USB charging capabilities
MAGNIFICENT OCEAN VIEWS – Private terrace overlooking the ocean
SPACIOUS SUITE ACCOMMODATIONS – Luxury custom king bed sleep system, Double vanity bathrooms
DEDICATED PERSONAL ASSISTANT – Dedicated Personal Assistant is your single onboard touch point to ensure a flawless, seamless journey from beginning to end, 24-hour in-suite dining, state of the art espresso machine, complimentary coffee and teas, and a fully stocked refrigerator
BED & BATH – Luxury custom king bed sleep system, Double vanity bathroom, Modern, sleek shower system, Luxury bed and bath linens created exclusively for The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
SERVICES AND AMENITIES – 24-hour in-suite dining, Luxury bath amenities & individual robe and slippers, Complimentary WiFi, Choice of complimentary chilled bottle of Champagne or wine upon arrival, State of the art espresso machine, with complimentary coffee and teas, Digital flat screen smart television, In-suite safe, Vanity mirror, Hair dryer, Hypoallergenic pillows, upon request, 220v and 110v outlets, as well as USB charging capabilities
Designed with intimate seating arrangements, the spacious main restaurant offers a thoughtfully-designed balance of privacy and social connection. A menu of locally inspired creations change with the seasons to reflect the passing scene. The menu highlights the varied cultures, lands, and sights that are best explored at The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection destinations.
Creative interpretations of Southeast Asian cuisine are paired with sophisticated, laidback luxury in this sleek, contemporary restaurant. Sit down at the sushi bar, enjoy a more family-style table experience, or dine outside and watch the day’s destination disappear with the setting sun.
Indulge in a dining experience designed by Chef Sven Elverfeld of Aqua, the three Michelin-starred restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton®, Wolfsburg. This namesake offers an inspired European á la carte journey in a sophisticated setting with a contemporary feel. Reservations required, additional fee applies.
Come as you are, for lunch or a romantic dinner al fresco. The seafood bar features fresh local catches while prime cuts are prepared to order from the grill. The deck serves as one of the best views on the yacht to enjoy dinner or drinks.
Guests will wake to freshly roasted coffees and baked pastries at the espresso counter and bar. An array of ready-made culinary treats are also available for day trips and late nights.
All-day, all-night dining in the comfort of your suite or on your terrace can be ordered from the 24-hour menu, or during regular hours from the main dining room menu.
From a leisurely breakfast for early risers to late-night dining, this casual eatery serves a variety of cuisines prepared à la minute in an open air space.
Like the yacht itself, entertainment and enrichment onboard are an intimate affair. Our in-house classical and jazz musicians will provide highly personal performances across the many venues onboard throughout each voyage. The yacht’s leisurely pace offers the freedom and flexibility for our team to arrange fully immersive cultural experiences both onboard and ashore. From partnerships with the local arts and music communities, to discussion led by renowned experts and lecturers, each experience is designed to stir the senses in an uncommonly profound way.
Begin your evening with a bubbly cocktail, toast a special event or relax with an after dinner nightcap, this intimate cocktail lounge serves top labels from around the world, as well as premium Champagnes with caviar pairings.
From a leisurely breakfast for early risers to late-night dining, this casual eatery serves a variety of cuisines prepared à la minute in an open air space.
Top-deck views erase the borders between land and sea, an inspired setting for lounging, cocktails or socializing. At twilight, the space is transformed into a venue with cocktails and live entertainment, extending into a late-night hangout.
Cap off your day with a premium cognac in this intimate lounge with its comfortable furnishings. An excellent selection of premium, hand-rolled cigars are showcased in the state-of-the-art humidor.
From exclusive sportswear and branded apparel to jewelry and leather goods, leading labels offer enticing options. In select ports, your shopping experience is further enhanced by bespoke collaborations with local artisans who come on board to showcase their offerings.
Bold shades of blue reflecting the sea provide a vibrant accent to the yacht’s gathering place, with its chic, comfortable furnishings and library with travel guides and best sellers. Diffused lighting transforms the space into a cocktail lounge with piano bar, dancing and live music later on, making The Living Room one of the most popular Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection onboard features.
An infinity oasis of blue is just steps away from The Pool House, where guests can enjoy all-day dining. Frozen treats and refreshing water mistings pamper guests on the sun loungers and banquettes or soaking in the whirlpools. A spacious venue for deck parties and open-air movies.
Exceptional massages, facials, and a variety of locally inspired treatments await you within our serene onboard oasis. Enjoy a rejuvenating spa treatment in one of five private rooms, or al fresco, paired with ocean views. Plus, a full-service Beauty Lounge, Gentleman’s Grooming Salon, and a sauna, steam room and quiet zones allow you to truly disconnect. Reservations required, additional fee applies.
The Gym is home to a health and wellness program that integrates fitness and spa with lectures and nutrition that can be customized for each guest. From personal training in the Gym to sunrise yoga and mat pilates in the Fitness Studio, each voyage has opportunities to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Families exploring the world together are welcome aboard The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. With its own dedicated space on board, Ritz-Kids® is an educational and fun-filled program that encourages children ages 4 to 12 to explore the world around them. Enhanced programming will be available during holidays and summer months.
- The Observation Lounge
- The Observation Terrace
- The Humidor
- The Gym
- Fitness Studio
- The Ritz-Carlton Spa
- The Spa Terrace
- The Barber/The Salon
- Launderette
- The Medical Centre
- Mistral
- Ritz-Kids
- Suites 801 – 824
- Suites 701 – 737
- The Bar
- S.E.A
- Talaat Nam
- Suites 601 – 645
- The Pool House
- The Pool
- Suites 501 – 545
- The Meeting Rooms
- The Living Room
- The Boutique
- Main Dining Experience
- Dining Privée
- 505 – 519 Lower Level
- The Marina Terrace
- The Marina
Get in touch with our team to start planning
Call and speak to a member of our experienced team today on +44 (0)1491 528 988 or email info@authenticcruises.co.uk.
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