Everyone had one question today. Why did Napoleon ever leave Elba Island?

On the edge of the eponymous harbor of the island of Elba sits the quaint city of Portoferraio. This capital “city” is closer to cozy than chaos, and Lindblad guests had no trouble finding their way in the sunny cobble stone streets of Portoferraio. While some enjoyed a narrated local wine tasting, others were guided back in time to when Napoleon resided in exile here in Portoferraio. Everyone had a chance to taste and feel what makes this corner of the island so special.

Lunch was served onboard Sea Cloud II, and some folks continued to take full advantage of their free time onshore. Many delighted themselves with a visit to Spiaggia delle Ghiaie—a local beach. Pristine shades of blue gently rolling onto the white pebbled shore were all too tempting to simply observe. Of course, we went swimming! The day was full, and full we were after a hardy day of exploring another precious gem of Italy.