Greek Isles and Mediterranean Treasures - 12 nights, September 2013

Discover Sicily’s most famous and dramatic landmark, Mount Etna.

Take a southbound drive along the highway, passing through the villages of Santa Venerina and Zafferana Etnea. The scenery gradually grows more forbidding as you approach the Sapienza Refuge.

Considered to be a very active volcano, Mount Etna has erupted more than 130 times and is the largest and highest volcano in Europe. A stop will be made at the Silvestri Craters to take in the dramatic scenery and see the ancient lava flows. Take in the views of the city of Catania, which was overwhelmed by an eruption 300 years ago.

You will have a short while to explore the lunar-like landscape independently and take photographs of the foreboding scenery. During your visit you will be offered refreshments in one of the local restaurants.

Your return drive will take you back along the highway to Messina.

Note: The drive to Etna is around two hours. Due to time limitations and facilities comfort breaks will not be made during the drive. The time spent at the volcano will be around one hour. The visit to Etna is half way up to the main sightseeing area only and does not go to the summit. The terrain around the crater is uneven and rocky, so covered shoes with good grip are essential. A jacket is advisable. Photograph opportunities and views of and from Mt Etna are dependent on weather conditions, which can be very changeable. Euros are accepted for local purchases.

An excellent way to become acquainted with any historic city is on foot armed with a lightweight iPod® and a detailed map.

Enjoy an easy walking tour of the cobblestoned streets and historic sights of Athens and since there are no schedules to keep, you are free to have a meal, take a break for refreshments, or hit the shops whenever you wish. Your stereo iPod® allows you to listen to all the interesting facts and descriptions of this timeless city and its historic sights while walking through the streets at your own pace. Simply consult the customised map to find each location and then go to the indicated number on the player for a detailed description of the site and its history.

Follow the suggested route or set out on your own adventure, moving about the city with ease thanks to your map and audio directions. Highlights covered include the Marine Gate, defensive walls, Turkish Library and Mandraki harbour to name but a few.

We recommend that you purchase this tour in conjunction with ATH014 Athens On Your Own.

Note: Please present photographic ID when picking up your iPod®. Meals and any admission fees required are not included. Ideally, participants will be familiar with iPod® technology prior to booking this tour, but a brief explanation of the equipment will be provided at the time of its delivery.

No visit to Athens would be complete without a tour of the Acropolis. Enjoy some free time to explore the Plaka district.

Dominating the Athenian landscape, the Acropolis is rich in beauty, architectural splendour and historic importance. Your guided tour of the Acropolis begins with a walk up the steep steps to the upper city entrance, through the Propylea, extending 150 feet across the whole western front of the Acropolis. Adjoining the entrance is the Temple of Athena Nike or Wingless Victory. Beyond the Propylea, on the highest part of the hill, is the Acropolis’ crowning glory, the Parthenon.

Enjoy free time at the Plaka to further explore the delights of Athens. The narrow cobble-stoned streets are lined with neo-classical buildings and tempting shops. View the Old Olympic Stadium (traffic permitting), built for the first modern Olympic games. The stadium was also used for the Marathon finish and archery during the 2004 games.

Drive past a wealth of important sites, including Hadrian’s Arch, Statue of Lord Byron, Temple of Olympian Zeus, National Gardens, Academy and the University Library.

Note: Please refer to the port’s important information regarding children aged 13-17 years. The visit to the Acropolis involves climbing approximately 80 steep, marble steps and walking along uneven pathways; comfortable non-slip shoes are recommended. The Plaka area will be explored on foot. Luncheon is not included, so please remember to take sufficient Euros. The Acropolis is undergoing extensive restoration and parts are covered in scaffolding.

A private tour is the perfect solution for guests who wish to tour together and discover Ephesus.

Vehicles with an English-speaking guide and local driver are offered on tours shown below. No deviations to duration, venues if included, departure or return time can be made. This is a private vehicle; those accompanying you are family or friends with whom you agree to share costs. We do not match groups of guests to form a private group for the vehicle. Vehicles and guides are extremely limited and so early reservation is recommended to avoid disappointment. These are selected tour itineraries.

The tour fare is per vehicle and only one person in the party should book a ticket. The entire cost of the vehicle and tour will be charged to that person’s onboard account and cannot be divided between the party. Once on board, you will receive a request for the names of each individual in your party. This information is required to allow your party to disembark the ship for the tour.

Entrance fees, meals, refreshments and gratuities are not included unless otherwise stated.

People Carriers will take up to 4 guests.

Note: Private tours are non-refundable once confirmed. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability and number of passengers in your party. Request only one ticket per group and not the number in your party. Vehicles are air-conditioned and come with an English-speaking guide and local driver. No deviations to tour content, duration, departure or return time can be made.

Ephesus and Highlights - There is approximately two hours of walking over uneven, slippery and cobblestoned ground, flat comfortable shoes are recommended. The removal of any pieces from the site is strictly forbidden. Please refer to KU1001 for a full description of this tour.

Enjoy a motor launch ride across the Venetian Lagoon admiring the picturesque aspects of this wonderful city, without the walking.

Your motor-launch will glide along the broad Giudecca Canal to Saint George’s Island, before traversing the southern lagoon to San Servolo and San Lazzaro.

Continue along a part of the Lido, a long strip of land dividing the Lagoon of Venice from the Adriatic Sea. You will then enter the canal that separates the two islands of Le Vignole and Sant’Erasmo.

Enjoy a view the island of Murano, renowned for its glass making. Cruising back towards Venice view the Arsenale, a vast, walled dockyard that was once the most efficient industrial complex in Europe. Your panoramic tour also passes the ancient church of San Pietro di Castello, the city’s Cathedral until the beginning of the 19th century.

Approaching St Mark’s Basin, capture a wonderful view of St George’s Island, St Mark’s Square and, in the distance, the Grand Canal.

Note: This tour is a panoramic motor launch tour, there are no stops included. Guests must be able to negotiate gangways and steps onto and off the launches. It is not possible to transit the Grand Canal as large private launches are prohibited from doing so. There are no toilets on the motor launches. The seating on board the motor-launches is made from hard wood material. The order of highlights may vary.

Enjoy a comprehensive introduction to the most historic sights in this beautiful medieval city.

Your scenic drive takes you along the coastal highway for a panoramic view of the city walls, ancient rooftops and picturesque surroundings.

Continue with a walking tour of the city, which is on UNESCO’s List of World Patrimony due to its exceptional beauty and rich cultural heritage. This ancient town, surrounded by strong ramparts and fortresses, is a treasure-trove of architectural and cultural masterpieces.

The pleasant walk will take you past the Rector’s Palace and the Franciscan Monastery, with visits to the Dominican Monastery and the Cathedral.

The Sponza Palace, Church of St Blaise, Bell Tower and Fountain of Onofrio will all be viewed from the outside.

There will be free time for independent sightseeing and shopping before returning to the ship.

Note: The majority of this tour is on foot, over flat, smooth surfaces, although there are steps at the museum entrances. Comfortable, flat, walking shoes are recommended.

Discover Tarquinia by bike, and sample the area’s famous ice cream.

After a short coach transfer from the port of Civitavecchia, you will follow the coastline for approximately 30 minutes until you enter one of the most important Etruscan centres of Lazio, Tarquinia.

Begin your two mile guided biking tour through the narrow streets of the historical centre of Tarquinia, which is still surrounded by its medieval walls. Discover some of the highlights of this town, including the St Francesco Church, 14th-century Town Hall Lodge, Cathedral and the 15th-century Palazzo dei Priori.

Visit a traditional Gelateria to discover the secrets of Italian ice cream making and enjoy a taste of traditional Italian ice cream.

Enjoy a short stop to browse for souvenirs in the shops located in the quaint streets of Tarquinia before your journey back to the pier.

Note: A safety briefing will be given before you commence your tour. Helmets must be worn and a parent or guardian must accompany children under the age of 18. Before you book this excursion, you must refer to the ‘Activity Excursion’ paragraph under the Guide to Symbols in this brochure.

The best of both worlds. Not only will you discover Corfu’s breathtaking scenery, but also visit its colonial palaces.

Corfu is more lush and verdant than most Greek islands and this is apparent as you drive through groves of olive, orange and lemon trees, interspersed with tall, graceful cypresses.

In the village of Gastouri is the Achilleion Palace, or Elisabeth's Folly. You are sure to find the views impressive and there will be time to explore the manicured, gardens, containing statues including the dramatic Dying Achilles.

Today the Mon Repos Palace, where Prince Phillip, Duke of Edinburgh was born, has been turned into the Paleopolis Museum, housing finds from various archaeological sites. Set in beautiful gardens, the grounds have ancient Greek temples and a Byzantine town. Sweeping views of the sea from high up, add to the beauty of the location.

A stop for refreshments will be made at a local venue.

A brief photograph stop will be made near the Old Fortress of Corfu to take in views of the beautiful Old Town.

Note: Please note that the journey is along some winding roads and this excursion does not include a guided tour of Corfu Town. You may opt to remain in the town and make your own way back to the ship, please advise your guide, if you wish to do this. There are 50 steps to visit the Gardens of Achilleion Palace and the stairs do not have handrails. Total walking time during this tour is 1½ hours. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are recommended.

Discover the charm of Viterbo, one of the best preserved medieval towns in central Italy.

Your journey from Civitavecchia takes you through the beautiful Italian countryside, heading towards the Lazio region of central Italy and onto the ancient town of Viterbo.

Upon arrival your guide will take you on a delightful walking tour through the cobblestoned streets, passing Piazza del Plebiscito and Piazza del Gesύ, where some of the best preserved buildings can be seen. An inside visit of The Cathedral of Saint Lorenzo, one of the town’s most important monuments, will show you beautiful Romanesque style architecture.

Enjoy an exterior view of the imposing Pope’s Palace (Palazzi dei Papi). The Palace once served as the Pope’s country residence and is one of the main attractions of Viterbo. See for yourself why the pontiff chose this wonderful location as a countryside retreat.

Your walking tour ends at the Quartiere San Pellegrino District, where some free time will be given for you to explore independently.

During your tour, a refreshment will be served.

Note: The journey time to Viterbo is approximately one hour. This tour involves approximately 2 ½ hours of walking over some uneven and cobblestoned ground. Flat, comfortable non-slip walking shoes are recommended. The majority of shops are open from Tuesday through to Saturday from 9:00am- 1:00pm and from 4:00pm- 8:00pm. Please dress appropriately when entering the Cathedral.

See the highlights of Rome at a more leisurely pace. Enjoy the drive and the sights without the walking.

As you drive around Italy’s legendary capital, you will be intrigued by the stunning picture of its past and present, by the tranquil fountains that adorn the squares and streets, and by the sculptures and frescoes that cover every church.

Once in the city you take a panoramic sightseeing tour passing by the Vatican walls, which outline the area of the Vatican City, the Lungotevere and the Ara Pacis.

Next, you will pass by Muro Torto (the Roman walls), Villa Borghese and enter the old town by Porta Pinciana. Pass through Via Vittorio Veneto, symbol of the Italian ‘dolce vita’, the white marble Victor Emmanuel Momument, the Roman Forum, the Colosseum, the Arch of Constantine and the Circus Maximus.

A brief stop will be made for you to photograph a building of epic proportions, The Colosseum; an image that will no doubt become a precious memento of your visit to the eternal city of Rome.

Note: All sightseeing will be done from the coach. No entrances are included. A comfort stop will be made during the one hour and 30 minute transfer to/from Rome. Guests must be able to negotiate the steps onto and off the coach.

Do not miss this opportunity to sail along the amazing Corinth Canal and visit Ancient Corinth with its 6th century Temples.

In the days of St. Paul, Ancient Corinth possessed a forum larger than Rome, with temples, theatres, baths, shops and basilicas. See the remains of the beautifully-paved Lechaion Road and 6th century BC Doric Temple of Apollo. A visit will be made to the Museum, which houses some of the finds from the site.

The Corinth Canal never fails to impress. Four miles long, 75 feet wide and 26 feet deep, it represents a great feat of engineering. An unforgettable sight, the Canal separates the narrow causeway joining the Peloponesse to the mainland.

The highlight will be the Canal transit. Boarding a boat, you will travel serenely through the Canal, with the walls rising sheer on either side. Depending on Canal traffic, the trip through the Canal may be made twice, and if that is the case you will return to the original starting point. There may be a short wait whilst queuing to enter the Canal.

A buffet luncheon including wine and coffee is included. There will be a short time available for shopping in the area outside the site of the Ancient Corinth.

Note: The site of Corinth has uneven pathways and some steps to be negotiated. Comfortable non-slip shoes are recommended. Please note that due to the restrictions of the transit, luncheon may not be served until mid-afternoon. We recommend you have a hearty breakfast. The drive to Corinth will be by motorway and takes approximately 1¼ hours each way. Flash photography is not permitted in the Corinth Museum.

See the Acropolis, shop in the famous Plaka and enjoy local entertainment during luncheon, which includes wine.

Your scenic drive will take you to a vantage point to capture one of the world’s most recognisable sights, the Acropolis. Witness spectacular views of the monuments of the Acropolis and the Parthenon, the pride and joy of Athens.

Overlooked by the mighty monuments of the Acropolis, is the famous shopping district of Athens, the Plaka. Its mazy and cobble-stoned pedestrianised streets hide numerous plazas. You will have approximately one hour to wander around this shopping haven.

After free time in the Plaka, enjoy luncheon of local and national dishes accompanied with Ouzo, Metaxa Brandy and wine. During luncheon you will be entertained by local dancers and a folkloric show.

View the impressive Old Olympic Stadium, (traffic permitting) built for the first modern Olympic games.

Note: The Acropolis is viewed from a point at the lower entrance, reached by climbing approximately 30 steps. The Plaka will be explored on foot from the Acropolis, resulting in a walk of approximately 20 minutes, over some uneven ground. The Acropolis is undergoing extensive restoration and parts are covered in scaffolding. The order of highlights may vary and free time may be after luncheon.

Take a scenic countryside drive to Bracciano and visit the impressive Odescastle and tranquil lake.

Just an hour from Civitavecchia is the location of the ancient hillside town of Bracciano, dominated by the imposing Odescalchi Castle.

Odescalchi Castle was built in the second half of the 15th century and combines military architecture with a captivating elegance. The Castle is built around a central courtyard with views over the Bracciano Lake. See for yourself why Hollywood star Tom Cruise chose this fairytale location for his wedding in 2006. Following your visit to the Castle, enjoy some limited free time in Bracciano.

Afterwards, you will take a leisurely boat ride to soak up the wonderful sights and scenery. Formed within an ancient volcanic crater, the tranquil Bracciano Lake mirrors its beautiful surroundings. A refreshment will be offered before arriving on the opposite side of the Lake in Trevignano. Here, you will rejoin your coach for the return drive to Civitavecchia.

Note: There is a 10-15 minute walk from the coach parking area, through Bracciano town, to the castle. The tour of the castle involves around one hour of walking including many steps, gravel and uneven ground and a spiral staircase. Comfortable, flat non-slip shoes are essential. As Odescalchi is a private residence, this tour may be cancelled at short notice. The boat ride is subject to local weather conditions. Shops in Bracciano may be closed on Sundays.

Embark on a panoramic sail around the old city to enjoy some free time in Cavtat, before returning to Dubrovnik by coach.

Glide away from the port of Gruz and enjoy an unforgettable boat ride on a traditional motorboat. Pass by the Fort of St Lawrence and around the city walls to view the old port, where the medieval mariners used to arrive in centuries gone by.

Sail past the Island of Lokrum, where, according to legend, Richard the Lionheart was cast ashore after being shipwrecked in 1192. Continue past the magnificent cliffs, before reaching the Bay of Zupa Dubrovacka (Parish of Dubrovnik). Refreshments of soft drinks will be served on board during the journey.

Your destination is Cavtat, situated in a bay and encircled by 2 peninsulas making it a safe harbour often frequented by numerous sailors and yacht enthusiasts. Enjoy approximately 1 hour of free time to explore the area.

Return to the ship by coach and gain an insight into the coastal beauty of the south coast of Croatia.

Note: There are nine steps to negotiate onto the boat. You are advised to wear appropriate footwear and take warm clothing on the boat. In the event of inclement weather the sea portion of the tour will be replaced by a coach drive and free time and a refund of 30% will be applied to your stateroom account.

Experience the stunning scenery Santorini has to offer and sample some fine local wines.

Perched up high on the cliffs is the small village of Oia in the most northern tip of the island. This quaint little village is famous for its houses, painted in a spectrum of pastel colours which stand out against the whitewash churches with their dazzling blue domes. Enjoy a guided walk, through the narrow streets which twist and turn to reveal many tiny shops offering a varied and unusual collection of works of ceramic art, paintings and jewellery. Cafés perched on the edge of the cliffs offer spectacular views of Fira and the volcano.

Continue through the picturesque countryside and vineyards and learn why Santorini is so popular for wine production with its rich volcanic soil, perfect for the vines. An old winery has been restored to demonstrate the traditional wine producing methods. After a tour of the winery, you are invited to sample some of the wines with local traditional snacks.

Your tour will end in Fira where you make your way back to the ship at leisure, using the cable car (ticket provided).

Note: The excursion involves one hour of walking over cobblestones and with uphill inclines in places. The tour ends in Fira with a walk of 1500 yards to reach the cable car station. Guests under the age of 18 years are not permitted to sample the wines.