Sun-Drenched Headwinds – Barcelona, Madeira & Tenerife

About this cruise

A 12-night sailing gives you something shorter trips can't: the feeling that you're not just visiting places but actually living somewhere else for a while. This one leaves Civitavecchia (Rome) on November 11, 2026 and visits Genoa, Marseille and Barcelona, with additional stops along the Western Mediterranean. You finish in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. A few ports come in quick succession, which is great for sightseeing but means you'll appreciate the sea days when they arrive. The route threads through 4 countries along the Western Mediterranean coast: Italy, France, Spain and Portugal. Genoa alone is worth the trip, Columbus' birthplace, a labyrinth of caruggi. Around 9 hours per port on average, which is generous enough to go beyond the obvious. At 185,010 gross tons, Costa Smeralda is big enough that you can find a quiet corner or a crowd, depending on your mood. The longer time on board means you'll catch several shows, themed nights, and start feeling like a regular at your favourite bar. Civitavecchia (Rome) itself is worth spending some time in. Don't just treat it as a departure point. The autumn timing is underrated too. Good weather, calmer seas, and a more relaxed ship. Worth booking. That's the short version.