Greek Isles and Turkish Splendours - 12 nights, October 2013

The city of Miletus was one of the greatest Ionian cities in south western Asia Minor. Miletus was destroyed in 494 BC after falling into the hands of the Persians but was later rebuilt by the famous architect, Hippodamus who gave Miletus its street grid plan. This revolutionary feature of urban planning was adopted in nearby Priene, and later by all new Roman cities. The city eventually declined after silt brought down by the river Maeander caused the gulf to close and extended the shore line.

During your visit you will see the ruins of the stadium, Roman baths and the Roman theatre which at one time could hold 25,000 spectators.

Visit the newly opened Archaeological Museum at Miletus and see the wonderful artefacts representing the many ancient sites of the area.

Afterwards, enjoy a stop at the site of Didyma to view the Temple of Apollo. This vast temple was amongst the most famous oracles in the ancient world.

As your tour concludes back in Kusadasi, you will have the option of visiting a local carpet store for a carpet demonstration with some time for shopping or returning directly to the ship.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately 2 hours of walking over uneven, slippery and cobblestoned ground on this tour. Please watch your step at all times and due to the nature of the sites, flat comfortable shoes are recommended. The order of highlights on this tour may vary to avoid congestion.

Drive through the beautiful Sicilian countryside to a nature reserve located on the Peloratini Mountains. Stop briefly for a photographic opportunity offering breathtaking views of Milazzo, Aeolian Islands, the Messina coastline and its strait.

Your next stop will be the Sanctuary of Dinnammare, located at 1180 metres above sea level.

From here, you'll have beautiful views of the Tyrrenian and Ionian sea as well as the city of Messina.

Before you return to Messina, you’ll stop at a local bar to sample a typical Sicilian snack ‘Pagnotta alla Disgraziata’ - local bread, salami, cheese and olive oil, accompanied by a glass of red wine.

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. A substantial amount of walking is involved on this tour. Due to the altitude reached, it is advisable that guests with heart conditions do not participate. Flat, comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes are essential. Due to the elevation, it may get cold and it is advisable to wear layers. On the rare occasions which the reserve is closed, you'll have time to explore the Peloritani Mountains independently. This tour is not suitable for those who suffer from a fear of heights or vertigo.

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.

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.

Begin your tour with a scenic drive through the Old Town of Corfu, passing monuments such as the Old and New Fortress and Esplanade Square.

Continue along the coast towards Paleokastritsa Village, a seaside village built among six small coves nestled in the rugged coastline and surrounded by olive, lemon and cypress groves. The scenery here is considered by many to be the finest in the entire Mediterranean.

The Monastery of the Virgin Mary, was founded in 1288. The present day complex was erected in the 18th century and offers unrivalled views of Paleokastritsa. You’ll pass by lemon trees and a carefully tended flower garden on the way to the chapel where a small museum exhibits Byzantine and ecclesiastical art.

The stunning beach of Glyfada is situated on the western coast of Corfu. You will have approximately three hours of free time to relax on the beach and swim in the Ionian Sea. The beach is fronted with cafés and tavernas, where you can purchase refreshments. The beach offers sun beds and umbrellas for hire so please remember to bring local currency with you.



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. There is a 150 yard elevated walk to the beach. Please remember sun-cream, a hat, towel and local currency. There may be independent suppliers on the beach that may offer watersports. These are provided by parties unconnected to Cunard.

Take this unique opportunity to visit a local farm in the beautiful countryside near Sorrento and sample some wonderful Italian delicacies. The owner will accompany you on a tour of the farm and explain the processes that go into the production of Mozzarella cheese.

Admire the beautiful garden of lemon and olive trees where your host will offer samples of hand-made bread, cheeses and salami. Absorb the relaxing atmosphere of your natural surroundings away from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

After your farm visit, you’ll proceed to the picturesque and popular town of Sorrento – an ideal spot for independent exploration. Stroll along the Corso Italia or visit the Cathedral. You may, of course, prefer to relax in an open-air café and watch the world go by. Shoppers will delight in the array of souvenirs including beautiful, highly polished wood inlaid with marquetry.

During your drive, you’ll have wonderful views from the Sorrento coast of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius in the distance.


This excursion is operated by coach and on foot.There is an uphill walk of approximately 10 minutes to reach the farmhouse. The visit of Sorrento town will be on foot but the amount of walking is at guests’ own discretion. Flat, comfortable shoes are recommended. The order of this itinerary may vary.

Your motor-launch will glide along the broad Giudecca Canal to Saint Georges 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 citys Cathedral until the beginning of the 19th century.

Approaching St Marks Basin, capture a wonderful view of St Georges Island, St Marks Square and, in the distance, the Grand Canal.


This tour is operated by motor launch. 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.

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.

No trip to Venice is complete without a visit to the Doge's Palace. See this opulent residence, steeped in history and lavishly decorated. Venture to the gloomy dungeons, by way of the Bridge of Sighs.

Take in the sights and monuments of the impressive landmark piazza, St Mark's. See the 300-feet-tall Campanile, as well as bustling St Mark's Square. A highlight of the square is St Mark's Basilica, a truly stunning piece of architecture and the jewel in the crown of Venice (entrance not permitted on Sunday mornings).

Enjoy some free time to explore at your leisure, stop for a spot of luncheon or perhaps do some shopping.

Depart St Mark's by motor launch for the charming island of Murano. Here, you will discover how, in the 16th century, this little island became the centre for the most spectacular glass making production in Europe - perhaps the world. See artists at work during a glass making demonstration and browse the gallery for mementos of your visit.




This excursion operates by motor launch and on foot and involves a lot of standing. Flat, comfortable shoes are advisable. The Doge's Palace includes over 100 steps throughout the visit. Bags must be left in a secure store. Flash and video cameras are not allowed in the Palace or Basilica. Please dress appropriately for entering the Basilica. Queuing is to be expected and may delay or prevent entrance to the Basilica. Interior visits in general cannot always be guaranteed as daily services may be taking place.Catholic Mass is held on Sunday mornings and an interior visit of St Mark’s Cathedral is not permitted. During high tides the Cathedral is subject to closure without notice. Luncheon is not included. Option to remain in St Marks for independent exploration is not possible due to time restraints.

Depart from the pier and enjoy a panoramic drive through the Etruscan countryside to the town of Montefiascone, a town of the Alta Tuscia which looks over the Lake of Bolsena.

Here, you’ll visit the well established Antica Cantina Leonardi Winery and sample three of the famous local wines accompanied by local products.

Afterwards, proceed to Marta, a small village on the southern shore of Lake Bolsena. The village, whose economy is based primarily on the traditional activities of fishing and agriculture, is perched on a hill and descends gently to the shores of the Lake.

Enjoy some free time to discover the beauty of this village, characterised by narrow streets, picturesque corners and dominated by the magnificent clock tower.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The drive to Montefiascone takes one hour. There are steps to negotiate at the winery. Flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Euros are accepted for local purchases. There is approximately 20 minutes of walking on this tour.

Your journey from Civitavecchia takes you along the highway, through the city and into the heart of Rome.

Upon arrival, you will visit one of the grandest of all Rome's monuments, the Colosseum. Once inside, it is easy to imagine the magnificence of ancient Rome. From one of the great viewpoints, you will see this enormous arena that once featured 76 numbered entrances, marble seats and subterranean passages where animals and other apparatus were hidden from view.

A short stroll from the Colosseum leads you to the Roman Forum (exterior view). See remains of the Senate buildings, where decisions affecting the entire Roman Empire took place. Your guided walk will continue through Venice Square and on to the Trevi Fountain.

Join the romantic custom of tossing a coin into Rome's most famous fountain to ensure that some day you will return.

To round off your tour, you will head to the Pantheon for an exterior view of the immense columns and awe-inspiring hemispherical dome. Afterwards, free time will be given for you to enjoy the charming Piazza Navona and browse the shops and boutiques.

An Italian-style luncheon will be served to allow you to 'refuel' during your tour.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. This tour involves a substantial amount of walking and standing (approximately six hours in total). Flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Please dress appropriately for entering churches.The itinerary is subject to local conditions.

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.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. 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.

Step back in time with a walk through Lindos village and up to the summit of the Acropolis to see the magnificent remains of past civilisations. Marvel at the 4th century BC Doric Temple of Athena Lindia, a double-winged portico, a Byzantine church and the fortifications of the Knights of St John, including the remains of the Governor’s quarters. The view is truly panoramic and at the very foot of the Acropolis is St Paul’s Bay, where the Apostle is said to have sought shelter during a storm.

Upon returning from Lindos, a short stop will be made at Archangelos, the island’s largest village in the Valley of Aithona. The village is famous for its long tradition in the art of ceramics. A brief stop will be made at the folk art factory where local artists, using age-old methods, make ceramic wares. There will be an opportunity to purchase the unique items on sale.

Return to the old town of Rhodes with its maze of cobble-stoned streets built inside the medieval city walls. Take some free time to browse in the many quaint shops, brimming with Greek souvenirs.



This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There are approximately 365 steps and narrow cobble-stoned pathways leading to the top of the Acropolis in Lindos. The old town of Rhodes will be explored on foot. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are recommended.

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.

Step back in time with a walk through Lindos village and up to the summit of the Acropolis to see the magnificent remains of past civilisations. Marvel at the 4th century BC Doric Temple of Athena Lindia, a double-winged portico, a Byzantine church and the fortifications of the Knights of St John, including the remains of the Governor's quarters. The view is truly panoramic and at the very foot of the Acropolis is St Paul's Bay, where the Apostle is said to have sought shelter during a storm.

Upon returning from Lindos, a short stop will be made at Archangelos, the island's largest village in the Valley of Aithona. The village is famous for its long tradition in the art of ceramics. A brief stop will be made at the folk art factory where local artists, using age-old methods, make ceramic wares. There will be an opportunity to purchase the unique items on sale.

Return to the old town of Rhodes with its maze of cobble-stoned streets built inside the medieval city walls. Take some free time to browse in the many quaint shops, brimming with Greek souvenirs.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There are approximately 365 steps and narrow cobble-stoned pathways leading to the top of the Acropolis in Lindos. The old town of Rhodes will be explored on foot. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are recommended.