Greek Isles and Mediterranean Treasures - 12 nights, October 2013

The charming resort town of Taormina is perched high on a cliff over-looking the Bay of Naxos. Half way up the winding hillside road, your coach will stop in the underground parking area, where you will take the lifts to street level and the Square of Porta Catania.

Your guide will introduce you to the delights of Taormina on a guided walk, including the Piazza Vittorio Emanuele and the bustling main street of Corso Umberto, lined with former mansions and flower-filled balconies. Enjoy wonderful panoramic views from the balcony of Piazza IX Aprile.

Follow your guide up the narrow street for a visit to the Greek-Roman Theatre. This is Taormina’s most famous antiquity, dating back to the 2nd and 3rd centuries BC and which still hosts performances today. The Theatre’s dramatic location is nothing less than breathtaking, with an incredible view of the coast and Mount Etna in the distance.

Time permitting, you will have a short while to browse the shops and boutiques that line the main street of Taormina.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Lifts must be used from the parking area to access the town centre. If queues form for the use of the lift, then the return to the parking area will be via 140 steps. The majority of this tour is conducted on foot, over some cobbled and uneven ground. Flat, comfortable walking shoes are advisable. Taormina is a popular destination, which can be very crowded in peak season. Guests wishing to use the restrooms in Taormina are expected to make a purchase. Euros and credit or debit cards are accepted for purchases.

An informative, narrated drive will take you from Piraeus to Athens, past a wealth of important sites, including Temple of Olympian Zeus, Constitution Square, and Tomb of the Unknown Warrior, Presidential Palace, and the University Library.

Walk up to the entrance of the Acropolis, through the Propylea, which extends 150 feet across the 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. Built between 447 and 432 BC, it was dedicated to the Virgin Athena, the patron goddess of the city. To the north of the Parthenon is the Erechtheion, a temple honouring Athena and Poseidon, God of the sea. The Porch of the Caryatids, with sculptures of lovely maidens, is one of the Acropolis' most graceful structures.

There will be a short time for souvenir shopping in the area close to the Acropolis.

Stop to admire the Old Olympic Stadium (traffic permitting), built for the first modern Olympic games. This stadium was also used for the Marathon finish during the 2004 games.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Please be advised that guests aged 17 years and under are entitled to free entrance to the Acropolis. Parents and/or guardians should, therefore, book any 13 – 17 year olds in their party as a child ticket. All guests between 3 and 17 years of age MUST carry their passport on the above tours in order to gain entrance to the Acropolis.

Note that all minors (those under 18) must be accompanied by an adult on shore excursions. Please be advised that some of the walking at the Acropolis is very slippery and flat comfortable shoes are recommended.

Headsets will be used for the visit to the Acropolis, which involves climbing approximately 80 steep steps and walking along uneven pathways – comfortable non-slip shoes are recommended. The Acropolis is currently undergoing extensive restoration and parts are covered in scaffolding.

An air-conditioned minibus with an English-speaking guide and local driver is offered on this tour. 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 passengers to form a private group for the vehicle. Vehicles and guides are extremely limited and so early reservation is recommended to avoid disappointment. No deviations to duration, venues if included or departure and return times can be made.

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 credit card. Once on board, you’ll 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.

Minibuses will take up to twelve guests.

Your tour begins with a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary, where it is said that Mary, accompanied by John the Apostle, visited at the end of her life. Upon reaching the City of Ancient Ephesus, the guided walking tour will take you through one of the most magnificent excavations in the world. Highlights will include the Fountain of Trajan, the impressive Library of Celsius and the Grand Theatre.

Visit the recently excavated Terrace Houses, also referred to as ‘the houses of the rich’. The wealthy and important people of Ephesus resided in these houses, which appeared very plain from the outside. However inside they were decorated with mosaic flooring and frescoes. Excavations of the Terrace Houses started in 1960 and are still continuing today.

Afterwards, you will visit the glorious St John’s Basilica, this once great church built over a 2nd century tomb is thought to hold the remains of St John.

A traditional luncheon will be served in a five star hotel before the return drive to Kusadasi. Once back in downtown Kusadasi you will have the option of visiting a local carpet store for a carpet demonstration or returning directly to the ship.


Private tours are non-refundable once confirmed. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability and the number of guests in your party. Only one person in the party is required to book a ticket. 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.

There is approximately three hours of walking over slippery and cobblestoned ground, with uneven terrain and some climbing required through the ruins. There are approximately 20 steps at the entrance to the Terrace Houses plus many steps inside to reach the different levels. The tour itinerary may vary in order to avoid congestion. Soft drinks and water are included with lunch; any alcoholic drinks must be purchased. Euros, Sterling and US Dollars are accepted.

An air-conditioned people carrier with an English-speaking guide and local driver is offered on this tour. 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. No deviations to duration, venues if included or departure and return times can be made.

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 credit card. Once on board, you’ll 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.

People Carriers will take up to four guests.

This private people carrier tour will allow you to take in the ancient site of Ephesus with family or friends.

Enter the magnificent site of the Ancient City of Ephesus at the Magnesia Gate. Whilst Ephesus is now deserted and in ruins, the past glories come to life as the impressive array of temples, agoras, porticoes and fountains come into view. Of particular interest are the Odeon, the Celsius Library, the Temple of Hadrian, the Fountain of Trajan and the Great Theatre.

Built over a 2nd century tomb believed to hold St John the Evangelist, St John's Basilica was once topped with 11 domes and rivalled Istanbul’s St Sophia Basilica in scale. The church is now in ruins, but there are many frescoes, mosaics and columns that attest to the glory that once marked this holy place.

The scenic drive, past countryside cultivated with olive groves, vineyards, tobacco and cotton plantations, will come to life as your guide takes you to the former site of the Temple of Artemis for a memorable photo stop.

The tour will end at a carpet shop in downtown Kusadasi. This is an optional visit to learn about the art of Turkish carpet manufacture. Alternatively you may wish to explore independently or return directly to the ship.


Private tours are non-refundable once confirmed. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability and the number of guests in your party. Only one person in the party is required to book a ticket. 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.

There is approximately 2½ 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. Entrance fees are included. Refreshments and gratuities are not included.

Your scenic drive will take you along the beautiful Adriatic coastline to your first stop at the small, charming village of Orasac. Here, you will have the opportunity to experience the production of olive oil in the old fashioned way with the mill powered by a horse, and taste some home made cheese, smoked ham and wine in the setting of a traditional Croatian house.

After your visit to Orasac, you will continue towards the small town of Ston, which is the oyster capital of Croatia. This little town is often referred to as a smaller version of Dubrovnik with its magnificent walls that surround the town. The walls are three miles long and the construction started in 1317 and was completed in the 16th century, producing one of the longest defensive walls in the world.

After free time in Ston you will have the opportunity to relax with tea or coffee or another glass of wine, to accompany your dessert. This will be followed by a beautiful drive along the Adriatic coast back to the ship.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The amount of walking on this tour is at your own discretion during the free time.

Paleokastritsa consists of six small coves with incredibly turquoise water, nestling in a coastline of hills and promontories, draped in olive, cypress and lemon trees. Legend tells us that this is the location where Odysseus met Nausica after his final shipwreck. Here you will visit The Monastery of the Virgin Mary which is located on a cliff and inhabited by monks. It was founded in 1228 but the present day complex was erected in the 18th century and offers unrivalled views of the area.

Situated in the fertile Ropa Valley and owned by one of the oldest families on the island is the Theotoky Estate. The Estate produces some of the best wine on the island as well as the most sought after olive oil. Experience the production process for both the wine and olive oil, followed by a sampling of the wine with some local cheese, fresh bread, olive oil and olives grown on the Estate. At the end of your visit there will be the opportunity to purchase wines and olive oil from the Estate.

The Town of Corfu is bustling, elegant, often charming and sometimes bewildering, and combines the picturesque ambience of a medieval town with many of the comforts of a modern resort. You will have a guided tour of the Old Town and some free time to explore on your own.

This tour will include a brief stop outside the Church of St Spyridon, the Patron Saint of the Island, to view the church and its distinctive bell tower.


This excursion will operate be coach and on foot.The town of Corfu will be explored on foot and involves walking over level terrain. Respectful attire must be worn when visiting the Monastery. Please note that ladies must have their shoulders covered and shorts are not permitted. There are up to 15 steps to negotiate at the Virgin Mary Monastery. Photography and filming are not permitted in the Monastery of the Virgin Mary.

Rhodes has been one of the Mediterranean’s biggest and most popular holiday resorts for over 30 years and it is easy to see why. A big element of the popularity is the beaches boasting crystal clear waters of the Aegean with fine golden sand.

A return transfer will be provided for you from the ship to one of the Island’s most famous beaches at Tsambika where you will have approximately three hours to enjoy a morning in the sun, swim in the sea and relax with a soft drink or juice at a taverna. The beach is named after the Church of the Virgin Tsambika which was built upon a high cliff overlooking the beach.

Whilst this is a reasonably unspoiled part of Rhodes, the beach still offers a limited selection of water sports, several tavernas and a mini market situated just a little off the beach.



BEACH/WATER RELATED EXCURSIONS
For any excursion involving water, guests are reminded to exercise particular care. Alcohol and eating a full meal should be avoided before swimming. If buoyancy aids are provided for an activity they must be worn at all times. You should bear in mind that the sea is unpredictable. Lifeguards are unlikely to be present and there may not be a flag system to indicate whether or not it is safe to go in the water. In addition, beach activities may not be supervised or accompanied and so you should take care to satisfy yourself as to the safety of the beach and/or the sea at the time of your excursion. Please exercise caution when entering the sea as the seabed and aquatic environment is capable of springing surprises and we have not inspected the beach or seabed for its safety. Children must be supervised by you at all times near water. All activities on the beach, water and in the sea are undertaken at your own risk. You’ll need to take swimwear, a towel, sunscreen and flat shoes that can be worn in the water.

LIABILITY
Cunard will arrange for the excursions to be performed by the relevant excursion provider. Cunard does not provide or supply the excursion services. Cunard will exercise reasonable care and skill in the selection of the excursion provider, but will not in any circumstances have a greater liability than the excursion supplier and Cunard shall not be responsible for the negligent acts/omissions of the excursion supplier. Please note that in relation to all excursions Cunard is not responsible or liable for any loss, damage, or injury sustained by you unless such loss, damage or injury arises out of a breach of legal duty of Cunard.

TRAVEL INSURANCE
Before booking any activity excursions it is essential that you ensure your travel insurance extends to cover the specified activity. It is your responsibility to obtain adequate insurance.

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. We would advise you to take sun protection, a sun hat and a towel. Please remember to take local currency (Euros). Sun beds and one umbrella, per two beds, have been reserved for you and are included. There may be independent suppliers on the beach that offer watersports. These are provided by parties unconnected to Cunard.

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.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. 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.

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.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. 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.

After a short ride on a motor launch, you‘ll alight and take a delightful walk through the lively area of Rio Terà San Leonardo before arriving at Campo del Ghetto, the heart of the Jewish Community of Venice.

In the 16th Century, the Jewish patrons of Venice were confined to the Ghetto after sunset, and huge gates were locked each night. Jewish residents were obliged to wear distinctive clothing, forbidden to own land, and the only profession open to them was in medicine. Though the Venetians are not proud of this history, the Ghetto has been preserved as to gain a glimpse into the life of those who once lived there.

Although today the Ghetto is home to only a few Jewish families, the ethnic flavour of the neighbourhood still remains. Some of the fine synagogues here date from the 16th Century.

The Schola Grande Tedesca, Schola Canton and Schola Levantini each represent different Jewish nationalities. The interior of the synagogues are opulently decorated with carved woodwork. You’ll have some free time for an independent visit of the little museum, where a varied collection of silver and religious objects is displayed.

Afterwards, you’ll walk back to the launch pontoon for your transfer back to the ship.


This excursion operates by motor launch and on foot. As this excursion involves extensive walking, we recommend guests wear flat, comfortable shoes. Euros and major credit cards are accepted for purchases. Entrance to the museum is included but is unguided. The synagogues visited may vary throughout the season if there are services taking place.

Corfu is one of the most lush and verdant of the Greek islands and, as you drive around on your panoramic tour, you will understand why so many tourists return year after year. Enjoy a trip through traditional mountain villages and across the spine of the island.

A scenic drive around Corfu Town will take you past the New Fortress and onto the Old Fortress, where there are magnificent views of the town. Drive past the Palace of St Michael and St George, the Esplanade and the cricket pitch.

The small village of Paleokastritsa is set amidst six small coves, nestled in the rugged coastline and is surrounded by olive, lemon and cypress groves. This is a popular resort and is considered to have some of the finest scenery in the entire Mediterranean.

The 'Koum Kouat' fruit, which grows only in Corfu, is made into one of the island's most famous products, a liqueur with the same name, along with fruit-preserved sweets. Sample some of the delicious wares and purchase some of the produce made from the Koum Kouat.

Admire the magnificent panoramic views from Lakones, a dreamy mountain village, where you will have free time to purchase refreshments and do a little souvenir shopping from the local vendors.


This excursion will operate by coach. There is some uneven ground at Paleokastritsa village. There are some hairpin bends on this tour and those guests suffering from vertigo should take this into consideration.

The Roman Forum was the religious and political focus of the city in Republican and Imperial times. This interesting ensemble of ancient ruins reflects twelve centuries of history, which created Roman civilisation (exterior view only).

Photograph Rome’s finest amphitheatre, the Colosseum. Commissioned by Emperor Vespasian in 72 AD, this immense structure once held up to 55,000 people. Now standing empty and in ruin, echoes of its glorious past can still be heard (exterior view only).

The centre of the Roman Catholic faith, St. Peter's Basilica is one of the most famous cathedrals in the world. With its immense dome, lavishly decorated interior, impressive exterior and grand piazza, it truly is a sight to behold. Your guide will offer interesting facts about this incredible monument before you enter independently.

During the afternoon, enjoy some free time to explore Rome independently from St Peter’s Square. Have a spot of luncheon, do some shopping or perhaps visit another of Rome’s top attractions.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The guided element of this tour involves substantial walking. Guests are advised that there are some cobbled and inclined surfaces to negotiate during this tour. Flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. There may be long queues to enter St Peter's Basilica and other popular attractions. Please dress appropriately for entering churches. Guide commentary will not be given within St Peter's Basilica. Free time is generally around two-three hours, but this may vary depending on local conditions. Please pay careful attention to the pick-up point and time.

Your guided walking tour of old Rhodes town takes you along stone-paved lanes and past medieval structures, each recalling the Knights of St John and their Turkish conquerors. Enjoy some free time to browse the many quaint souvenir shops in Rhodes old town.

Built in the early 14th century, the Palace of the Grand Masters was destroyed in 1856 and rebuilt in 1939. A visit to this dramatic structure will show you ancient mosaics from Kos and a monumental marble staircase.

The Acropolis of Lindos is the 'jewel in the crown' of Rhodes. A walk up to the summit of the Acropolis takes you back in time to past civilisations. Marvel at the 4th century BC Doric Temple of Athena Lindia, a double winged portico, Byzantine church, and the remains of the Knights' fortifications.

Luncheon, including wine and coffee, will be provided in one of the island's leading venues.

Visit 'Rodos Gold', a unique jewellery factory and museum, where you will be able to watch craftsmen making jewellery before your very eyes. The museum has a display of replica museum pieces from Greek history in solid gold.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Rhodes old town will be explored on foot along many cobble-stoned streets. Steep narrow, cobble-stoned pathways and 365 steps lead to the top of the Acropolis. The highlights of this tour may operate in reverse order.

Just behind Hadrian's Arch lie the remains of the largest Temple of Antiquity, the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Dedicated to the king and father of the gods, Zeus, it took a mammoth 700 years to complete.

From the viewpoint, gaze at the Acropolis with amazing sights of the Propylea, Temple of Athena Nike, Parthenon and the Erechtheion. The Sacred Way was lined with statues; the Parthenon was decorated with 92 sculptured metopes, 55 statues and a frieze 523 feet long. In the distance rises Mount Parnes, the highest mountain in Attica, and Mount Pentelikon, where Pentelic marble is quarried. Between the mountains spreads the Mesogheia Valley where grapes for retsina-resinated wine are harvested. Your Athens city drive will cover the main points of interest - both ancient and modern. You will see Hadrian's Arch, Statue of Lord Byron, Temple of Olympian Zeus, Constitution Square, the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior, National Gardens, Presidential Palace, Academy and the University Library.

Refreshments and local cake will be served at a leading hotel during the tour.

There will be a short time for souvenir shopping close by the Acropolis.


This excursion will operate by coach. You are advised that the Acropolis will only be viewed from a distance. To enjoy this excursion to the full a little walking is required, with a few stairs. The Acropolis is undergoing extensive restoration and parts are covered in scaffolding.

Setting off from the port, enjoy a scenic drive to the San Michele Winery, one of the most famous wine estates in the Etna Region. The vineyards of San Michele are distributed along a terrace, surrounded by a wonderful panorama that stretches from Taormina to Capo Mulini. Mount Etna dominates this magnificent scene with its towering summit.

The Etna region is characterised by its micro-climate, with rigid winters, temperate summers and abundant rainfall. The particular taste of Etna wine is enhanced by the lava soil, which is rich in potassium and mineral salts.

Enjoy some refreshments of typical Sicilian produce as you sample some of the famous Murgo Wine produced by San Michele. During your visit you will also have an opportunity to purchase some of the fine local delicacies such as wine, olive oil and pickles.

Views of the beautiful Sicilian coast, both the Tyrrenian and Ionian side, can be enjoyed during the journey to and from the Winery.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There will be approximately 45 minutes of walking over uneven and inclined terrain and there are around 30 steps to negotiate at the wine cellar. The wine cellar may be dimly lit in areas. Flat, comfortable non-slip shoes are essential. The journey to and from the winery is around is around one hour. Participants in the wine tasting must be over 18 years of age. Euros and credit or debit cards are accepted for purchases.