Poised as if to kiss the continent of Africa, Andalusia hugs the southern coast of Spain and embraces cultural influences from both sides of the strait. This is the birthplace of Don Juan and Carmen, evening paseos by women in lace mantillas, cape-twirling matadors. In short, it is quintessential Spain. The beaches of the Costa del Sol are legendary. And behind lie equally magnificent mountain ranges sheltering picturesque "white villages.

Feast your senses on spectacular landscapes, aromas and flavours as you sail from the golden Balearics into the French and Italian Rivieras, taking in Cannes, Genoa and Cinque Terre. The romance of Tuscany leads to Monte Argentario's secluded beaches and Rome's classical relics. In Naples, meander through lively streets, then drift across the Tyrrhenian to cultural Sicily, historic Tunis and Sardinia's island wonders. Trace the Cote d'Azur from Barcelona and revel in Mediterranean beauty.

This journey features the gift of time to pursue the ship's delightful diversions. Onboard, seek personal enrichments, enhance your wellness, enjoy cooking classes and cocktails on your private terrace. But it's the in-between that stays with you -- the free-spirited shores of Tangier, surfing sand dunes and gentle waves in Gran Canaria, topped with a paradisiacal culmination in the Caribbean's.

Embrace the joys of island-hopping from treasure to treasure, pausing in Sicily, Sardinia and the Balearics, as well as exploring mainland gems like splendid Florence, epic Rome, Ancient Carthage and beautiful Barcelona. Coast through the sparkling panache of Monte Carlo and the Cote d'Azur. Absorb tranquil, timeless whispers at the Pantheon and the elusive secrets of Pompeii. Then sample Palermo's architectural and culinary delights and Sardinia's fine white sands before looping back through Spanish charms.

Experience the dolce vita, from the old-world sophistication of Monte Carlo to the wild coastline and Renaissance elegance of Italy. Linger on sun-drenched shores and marvel at the beauty of Sicily, Sardinia and the Balearic Islands. Barcelona's brilliance guides us towards the rural idylls of Provence and Cannes, then onwards to breathtaking nature in Cinque Terre and Monte Argentario. We wrap up our adventures by treading in the footsteps of Caesar in historic Rome.

The buzz of Rome whisks us to the spirited streets of Naples, across the Tyrrhenian to Sicily's magic and onwards to sultry Tunis. Turquoise waters sparkle from the Balearics to Barcelona and sophisticated Saint-Tropez and Monte Carlo. Relax on Corsica's sun-kissed beaches, witness breathtaking views in Calabria and overnight in the paradise of Sardinia. Then loop back to the crystalline coves of Menorca and the amazing architecture and atmosphere of Barcelona.

Embrace Caribbean scenery and Mediterranean charms on an enchanting odyssey from Miami to Barcelona. Stroll through the old town at San Juan and dive into turquoise waters at Philipsburg's Great Bay.

Embrace the sweet life as you coast through the marvels of the Mediterranean. Leave arty Barcelona to glide along the glittering Cote d'Azur and bask on golden beaches before reaching Rome's ancient wonders.