Rail & Sail: The Grand Tour Reimagined
Long before travel became measured by checklists, Europe's great journeys were defined by the experiences between destinations. Travellers crossed the continent by rail, lingered in cities that inspired generations, and continued by sea towards new horizons. This contemporary voyage echoes that tradition, pairing the iconic Orient Express with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection in a seamless journey through Europe's cultural heart, where every mile is part of the story.
Journey highlights
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Travel Europe's Timeless Routes: Board the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express in Paris before continuing your journey by yacht aboard The Ritz-Carlton Evrima, following historic railways and maritime routes that have connected Europe for centuries.
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Stay at Europe's Most Iconic Addresses: From the grandeur of Venice's The Gritti Palace to the elegant Minerva Orient Express in the heart of Rome, experience a collection of exceptional hotels that embody the character and heritage of each destination.
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Discover the Adriatic by Yacht: Sail aboard the intimate Ritz-Carlton Evrima, calling at enchanting ports including Piran, Zadar, Dubrovnik, Kotor and Sorrento, with the freedom to explore hidden corners of the Mediterranean inaccessible to larger ships.
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Enquire NowItinerary
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At a Glance
This journey departs on June 20th 2027
Day 1: Paris to the French Countryside
Board the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Arrive in Paris and step aboard the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, where the golden age of travel comes vividly to life. Settle into your beautifully restored cabin before raising a glass of champagne as the train glides through the French countryside. As evening falls, prepare for an exceptional multi-course dinner crafted from seasonal ingredients, served in one of the train's exquisite dining cars. End your first day in the iconic Bar Car '3674', where live piano music, expertly crafted cocktails and an atmosphere of timeless glamour mark the perfect beginning to your journey through Europe.
Day 2: The Alps to Venice | Arriving in La Serenissima
Wake to the ever-changing landscapes of Europe as breakfast is served in your cabin by your steward. Watch the scenery unfold as the train winds through the dramatic Alpine passes and past the Dolomites before descending towards the shimmering waters of the Venetian Lagoon. Enjoy a leisurely lunch on board as anticipation builds for your arrival into Venice.
Stepping onto the platform at Santa Lucia station, your journey continues by private boat transfer through the city’s iconic waterways to your Venetian residence. Settle into the legendary Hotel Cipriani, where sweeping lagoon views, impeccable service and a tranquil setting offer the perfect retreat in the heart of La Serenissima. Spend the afternoon at leisure, perhaps relaxing beside the iconic pool, wandering through the Casanova Gardens or enjoying a treatment at the hotel’s spa.
Day 3: The Artisans of Venice | A City of Craft and Culinary Tradition
Begin your morning overlooking the lagoon before discovering the artistry and traditions that have shaped Venice for centuries. Venture behind the scenes of the city’s renowned glassmaking heritage with an exclusive visit to a historic Venetian furnace, meeting the artisans who continue this remarkable craft. Alternatively, remain at Hotel Cipriani for a private Bellini-making experience at Bar Gabbiano, learning the secrets behind Venice’s most celebrated cocktail.
As evening falls, dine at ORO, the hotel’s acclaimed restaurant overlooking the lagoon. Here, Chef Massimo Bottura and Head Chef Vania Ghedini present a refined interpretation of Venetian cuisine.
Where to stay
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (3 nights)
Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
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At a Glance
Day 4: Venice | A New Chapter in La Serenissima
After a leisurely breakfast at Hotel Cipriani, bid farewell to your first Venetian retreat before continuing deeper into the heart of the city. A private boat transfer carries you across the lagoon to The Gritti Palace, one of Venice’s most iconic addresses, where historic elegance and timeless hospitality await.
Settle into your room overlooking the Grand Canal before spending the afternoon at leisure. Wander through Venice’s atmospheric alleyways, discover hidden squares and artisan boutiques, or simply relax and watch the rhythm of the city unfold from the hotel’s celebrated terrace. As the sun sets over the lagoon, savour your first evening in Venice at your own pace, surrounded by the romance and beauty of La Serenissima.
Where to stay
Gritti Palace (1 night)
Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
More Experiences in This Area
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At a Glance
This voyage departs on June 24th 2027
Day 5: Venice to the Adriatic | Board The Ritz-Carlton Evrima
Following your time in Venice, continue your journey from rail to sea as you step aboard The Ritz-Carlton Evrima, your elegant yacht for the next seven nights. Departing La Serenissima in the evening, watch Venice’s domes and campaniles fade into the distance as you sail towards the Adriatic, following historic maritime routes once travelled by merchants, explorers and adventurers.
Settle into your suite, discover the yacht’s intimate spaces and enjoy your first evening at sea, where exceptional dining, attentive service and the freedom of yacht-style cruising set the tone for the days ahead.
Day 6: Piran | Slovenia’s Coastal Gem
Arrive in Piran, a beautifully preserved seaside town where Venetian influences meet the rugged landscapes of Slovenia’s Adriatic coast. Wander through narrow cobbled streets lined with colourful façades, discover the elegant Venetian architecture of Tartini Square, or venture beyond the town to explore the region’s vineyards, salt pans and dramatic coastal scenery.
Return to Evrima in the evening as the yacht continues south, carrying you deeper into the Adriatic’s hidden corners.
Day 7: Zadar | Ancient History and Adriatic Traditions
Today, discover Zadar, a city where layers of history unfold along the Croatian coastline. Explore ancient Roman ruins, medieval churches and atmospheric streets shaped by centuries of cultural exchange, or enjoy a more leisurely exploration of the city’s waterfront.
As the afternoon light fades, experience Zadar’s unique relationship with the sea before returning aboard Evrima for an evening of refined dining and relaxation.
Day 8: Dubrovnik | The Pearl of the Adriatic
Arrive in Dubrovnik, one of the Mediterranean’s most captivating coastal cities. Encircled by magnificent stone walls and overlooking the sparkling Adriatic, the city invites exploration through its historic streets, elegant squares and centuries-old architecture.
With an extended stay into the evening, there is time to experience Dubrovnik beyond the daytime crowds — perhaps enjoying sunset views from the city walls, discovering local cuisine or simply soaking in the atmosphere of this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage city.
Day 9: Kotor | Montenegro’s Dramatic Coastline
Sail into the spectacular Bay of Kotor, where towering mountains rise dramatically from the sea and ancient villages sit along the shoreline. Explore the beautifully preserved medieval town of Kotor, with its winding streets, historic churches and Venetian heritage, or venture further into Montenegro’s landscapes for breathtaking views across the bay.
Later, return to Evrima and continue your voyage through one of the Mediterranean’s most scenic waterways.
Day 10: A Day at Sea | The Art of Unhurried Travel
A day at sea offers the perfect opportunity to embrace the true spirit of this journey — slowing down and enjoying the pleasure of travelling well. Relax on board, take in the views from your private terrace, enjoy the yacht’s exceptional dining experiences or simply allow the rhythm of the Mediterranean to set the pace.
Day 11: Sorrento | The Gateway to the Amalfi Coast
Arrive in Sorrento, perched above the Bay of Naples and surrounded by fragrant citrus groves, dramatic cliffs and sweeping views towards Capri. Spend your final day aboard Evrima exploring this enchanting corner of Italy, whether wandering Sorrento’s elegant streets, discovering ancient history nearby or venturing along the legendary Amalfi Coast.
As evening approaches, enjoy your final night aboard the yacht, reflecting on a voyage that has carried you from Venice’s grand canals through the timeless landscapes of the Adriatic.
Day 12: Rome | Arrival in the Eternal City
After disembarking The Ritz-Carlton Evrima in Civitavecchia, transfer to Rome Fiumicino Airport for your flight home.
Or, extend your stay in Rome for an exploration of the Eternal City.
Where to stay
Ritz-Carlton Evrima (7 nights)
Why book a Journey by Land & Sea
- Our cruise experts will combine the best of ‘On Land’ and ‘At Sea’ to create a bespoke itinerary just for you
- On Land: Enjoy the best in Scott Dunn tailor-made travel, designed completely unique to you, before and/or after your cruise
- At Sea: Our all-inclusive* small-ship cruise partners are handpicked for their exceptional service, space, and design
- Our suggested itineraries are ideal for ‘cruise curious’ travellers who are traditionally land-based but are interested in giving luxury cruising a try
- Check with your consultant for a full list of the inclusions onboard
When to visit
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The warmest months of the year are July and August, during which time the daytime high temperatures will hover around the low 30°C's. The coldest months of the year on average are January and February, during which time the daytime highs will be around 12°C. The rainiest months of the year are generally November and December, with the summer months being fairly dry.
We design each itinerary around you, so this suggested itineraryis a starting point that we can tweak or transform into something completely bespoke to you. Call us on +852 2829 2000 to start planning your holiday.
Why Book a Cruise with Scott Dunn?
Unique to You
- We listen to you, and tailor your cruise to your travel style, pairing you with the right ship and the right destinations.
- We can make your itinerary as relaxing, active or cultural as you like. There is no one size fits all when it comes to cruising with Scott Dunn – it’s all about you.
Seamless Service
- We take care of all the logistics, including your cruise, flights, transfers, and luxury hotels, ensuring a smooth journey from start to finish.
- You are always in safe hands with us and our trusted worldwide partners. As with any Scott Dunn trip, we are just a phone call away 24/7.
Carefully Curated Collection
- Whether before, after or during your luxury cruise, we curate the best experiences on land to compliment your journey by sea, accompanied by our expert local guides.
- We only partner with small-ship luxury cruise lines with high staff to guest ratios – designed to never feel crowded.
Luxury in Every Sense
- Our cruises are carefully chosen for their five-star offering: fine dining, luxe facilities, attentive staff, and personal in-cabin butler service.
- We have personally experienced these ships and will only suggest those that meet the level of service and luxury that our guests expect.
