Grand Mediterranean Odyssey - 22 nights, November 2013

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.

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 5 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.

The original palace of Knossos was raised around 1900 BC, but was destroyed by an earthquake 200 years later. It was rebuilt on a grander scale, only to be severely damaged by the eruption of Santorini in 1600 BC and ravaged by fire in 1400 BC.

Your guided tour will take you through the marvellous ruins of the ancient complex, restored by Sir Arthur Evans. His work has been criticised by some for its modernity, but it does help you visualise the palace as it was, when it served as the administrative centre for the region.

There will be over an hour of free time for you to stroll at leisure in the town of Heraklion. Perhaps visit the Fountain of Morosini, near the colourful fruit and vegetable market, or shop for some Cretan souvenirs.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The archaeological site, which will be explored on foot, has uneven pathways and rough ground and there are 15 steps to be negotiated in various places. Flash photography is not permitted at the archaeological site. Heraklion will be explored on foot during the free time.

As you rise up towards the Top of the Rock Station aboard the cable car, enjoy views of the town, across to Africa and over to Spain. Walk from the Top of the Rock down to St Michael's Cave with your guide, who will point out views and places of interest along the way. Marvel at the amazing stalactites and stalagmites in the Cave.

Think of Gibraltar and the apes come to mind. The Rock's most popular tourist attraction, these tail-less apes roam about freely, much to the delight of photographers. (Please note they are wild animals, and are not to be touched or fed however friendly they may seem).

Take a guided walk of approximately 45 minutes through the unique system of the Great Siege Tunnels, carved through solid limestone. Excavated during the Great Siege of 1779-83, they allowed the mounting of gun emplacements along the north face of the rock towards enemy positions.


This excursion will operate by mini-coach, cable-car and on foot. Guests are advised that there is a lot of walking involved in this tour over uneven ground and steep gradients within the Tunnels. Sturdy, non-slip shoes are recommended. Please expect queues at the cable car.

Marseille was founded in the 6th century BC by Greek settlers from Phocea, and was named ‘Massalia’. Today it is the second largest city in France, and is home to the country’s largest commercial port. Sit back, relax and enjoy your drive as you pass by the shopping district, and have your cameras at the ready, as a stop will be made outside Longchamp Palace and the beautiful fountain.

Winding your way round one of Europe’s oldest cities, admire the Cathedral de la Major, a huge and extravagant construction started in the 19th century in Neo-Byzantine style. View the gilded statue of the Virgin and Child housed over the bell tower of the Basilica Notre-Dame de la Garde, perched high above the city of Marseille.

A scenic drive will take you along the promenade to the Corniche. Admire the stunning views of the craggy coves and little beaches tucked away along the coastline, spot the spooky Château d’If, the city’s penal colony in a bygone era. Enjoy a little free time at ‘Le Vieux Port’ and watch the world go by from one of the many cafés or shop for souvenirs.



This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Guests are advised to carry local currency should you wish to shop for souvenirs or purchase any refreshments. There is approximately 30 minutes of free time at the Old Port.

Dominating the Athenian landscape, the Acropolis is unsurpassed in its beauty, architectural splendour and historic importance. Your guided tour of the Acropolis will include headsets to enhance your visit and begins with a walk up the upper city entrance through the Propylea.

Your knowledgeable guide will lead you through the National Archaeological Museum. Marvel at the perfection, presence and power of the bronze statue of Poseidon and consider the excitement felt by Schliemann at Mycenae when he discovered the so-called death mask of Agamemnon along with a plethora of gold items.

Overlooked by the mighty monuments of the Acropolis stands the famous shopping district of Athens, The Plaka. The mazy and cobble-stoned pedestrian streets are a haven, which hide numerous plazas filled with boutiques and shops of every description.

After free time in the Plaka, luncheon will be served in one of the most unique restaurants in Athens. The restaurant produces food to traditional recipes as eaten by the population of ancient Greece. Dine as Gods of Ancient Greece - in a truly unique and unforgettable experience.



This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Please refer to the port’s important information for 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. The Acropolis is currently undergoing extensive restoration and parts are covered in scaffolding.

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 will 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, enjoy wonderful views from the Sorrento coast of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius in the distance.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Guests are advised that 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.

Take a scenic drive along the coastal road to Nice, passing through Beaulieu and Villefranche-sur-Mer. Upon arrival in Nice, you will take a guided walk through the narrow streets of the Vieille Ville — the Old Town. Afterwards, enjoy some free time to explore on your own, relax in a café or stroll through the delightful flower market.

Leaving Nice, you will drive along the famous Promenade des Anglais, then take the motorway to the glittering resort of Cannes. Upon arrival, you will have some free time to explore the Côte d’Azur’s most famous resort, home to the internationally renowned film festival. Stroll La Croisette, which separates the elegant town from parkland and beaches, browse the boutiques or view the pleasure boats in the marina.

A delicious luncheon of local delicacies will be served in a restaurant in Cannes.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. This tour involves approximately two hours of walking over relatively flat ground. Comfortable, flat shoes are recommended. Guests are advised to purchase a drink from one of the small cafés in Nice and Cannes in order to use the restroom facilities. On Mondays the flower market is replaced with a flea market.

Step inside the colossal Colosseum and imagine the glory of ancient Rome as you look over the vast arena. Pass by the Roman Forum, a once chaotic place with markets, temples and the Senate House. See the beautiful Trevi Fountain, Rome's largest and most famous fountain.

The Vatican Museum houses one of the most impressive collections in the world. Admire the many works of art and visit the Sistine Chapel, dominated by the efforts of Michelangelo. The conception and execution of 'Creation of the World' and 'Last Judgment' are positively titanic.

Magnificent St Peter's Basilica took over 100 years to build and features Renaissance and Baroque stylings. Resting on over 800 pillars and adorned with 44 altars, St Peter's is by far the largest church in the world.

There will be an opportunity to 'refuel' during your tour, with an Italian-style luncheon.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Guests booking this tour will have privileged access to the Vatican Museum, avoiding the main bulk of the crowds and queues for entrance. This is a fast paced comprehensive tour with substantial walking. The itinerary is subject to local conditions. Please dress appropriately for entering churches. For security reasons, St Peter's may close entrance altogether. In the event of excessive queues, free time will be given in St Peter's Square. Queues at the Sistine Chapel are to be expected. This tour is not operable on Sundays or on religious holidays.

A ride on Lisbon’s most famous and typical form of transport – the tram – is an absolute must. With the added dimension of local waiters serving port wine and traditional pastries on board, this unique tram tour is an ever-popular option. To further enhance this Lisbon experience, you will step from ancient tram to modern coach as your tour is rounded off with a panoramic drive of the city’s most famous monuments.

At the famous Black Horse Square, step aboard the tram for a leisurely circuit through this seven-hilled metropolis. See many fascinating glimpses of the ‘old city’ and the Tagus, passing landmarks such as the Parliament, Cathedral and Santa Luzia Belvedere. At Estrela Square, say goodbye to your traditionally-dressed waiters as you step onto a coach for the second part of your tour.

As you stand before the impressive Gothic-Manueline-style Jeronimos Monastery, your guide will provide you with details of this imposing building. Nearby, you will be equally impressed by the lavishly-decorated Belem Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries, which commemorate Henry the Navigator and Portugal’s incredible voyages of exploration.


This excursion will operate by coach and tram. Guests are advised there are some fairly high steps to be negotiated when boarding the tram.

Cosmopolitan Mykonos is probably the most well-known and talked about of all the Greek islands. The town rises in a natural amphitheatre style, set around a half moon bay. The small narrow streets are a labyrinth of whitewashed walls and hanging bougainvillea. You will certainly appreciate why the layout is so confusing, as it was designed to foil attacking pirates.

After a short coach transfer, your guide will navigate you through the maze of streets lined with exclusive boutiques and cafés to the Aegean Maritime Museum. Set in a traditional family house, this small but intriguing museum houses models of sailing crafts and ships from ancient times. In the back garden is the restored first lighthouse of Mykonos from the 19th century.

Photograph stops will include the island's most famous church, the Paraportiani, Little Venice, offering sweeping views of the Aegean and the famous sight of the old windmills. During the walking tour a stop will be made for some cooling refreshments.

The guided tour will finish at the sea front of Mykonos Town where you will be given the option of either returning to the ship by shuttle bus from the edge of town or staying to further explore on your own and returning at leisure.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Comfortable shoes, a hat and sun protection is strongly recommended.

On a short panoramic tour of the city, you will pass through the Paseo de Gracia, the widest avenue in town. Here, you will see plenty of Modernist houses designed by Gaudi; including the unusual La Pedrera House and other important architects of the period.

Designed by Gaudi; in 1882 and never completed, the Church of Sagrada Familia stands as witness to Gaud's creative, although controversial genius. Construction began again in 1939, but faltered due to confusion over Gaudi's plans. Join your guide for an interior visit and learn about Gaudi's vision for the Church. The final construction is meant to include 18 towers in total and is based on the 12 apostles, four evangelists, the Virgin Mary and Jesus Christ.

Park Guell was designed by Gaudi in the early part of the 20th century. Take a leisurely stroll through this hillside garden suburb of Barcelona, fashioned after the English model of a 'Garden City'.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. This tour involves some walking, including steps uneven surfaces and cobblestones throughout Park Guell. Due to parking restrictions there is a 15 minute walk each way to the Sagrada Familia. Comfortable, flat walking shoes are recommended.

Visit the delightful village of Le Castellet. This remarkable stronghold, formerly owned by the Lords of Les Baux, has well preserved ramparts and a carefully restored 12th century church and a castle dating back to the 11th century.

Enter through one of the two fortified gates, Le Portail and Le Portalet, to begin your guided walking tour around the narrow streets and up to the Castle, which is now home to the town hall. Enjoy some time at leisure, to explore the art and craft workshops.

The small resort of Bandol lies beside a pretty bay and is sheltered by high wooded slopes. A popular holiday spot long before the days of Brigitte Bardot and St Tropez, the resort is home to sandy beaches and inlets and is surrounded by the natural hillside beauty of pines and willows.

During your visit, enjoy some free time to relax in one of the inviting waterfront cafés or browse the fashionable boutiques.

This tour will operate by coach and on foot. This tour involves approximately 1 hour of walking with some cobblestone streets and inclines to negotiate.

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.

Discover ‘sacred’ Olympia, steeped in ancient myth and legend. The Olympic Games are believed to have originated here in 776 BC. Every four years, the Olympic flame is relit and delivered to the Games’ ‘host’ city. Stroll the deserted sanctuary with its temples, altars and treasuries, all overlooked by masses of trees, said to have been planted by Hercules to mark the boundaries of his father's domain. Walk, or for the more active, run the original course in the stadium with its marble starting blocks still intact.

Thought to be one of the most important Museums in Greece, the Archaeological Museum of Olympia is host to a collection of priceless treasures unearthed during archaeological excavations. The Museum offers many awe-inspiring exhibits including the remains of the pediments to the Temple of Zeus, which housed one of the seven wonders of the world, the gold and ivory statue of the God. The marble statue of Hermes, thought to date back to 330 BC will also leave you spellbound with its perfection.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is over two hours of walking on this tour over some gravel pathways and steps. Flash photography is not permitted inside the Museum. To reach the Museum of Olympia, there is a walk of 400 yards on a slight incline, and over a bridge with 30 steps.

Enjoy a leisurely drive along the Amalfi Coast, the most famous drive in all of Italy, described by John Steinbeck as ‘a dream place that isn’t quite real’.

With luxuriant vegetation and a sun-drenched climate, Sorrento became a favourite retreat of wealthy Romans and has been a popular resort ever since. A cliff-top setting and charming streets with bustling boutiques, make the little town of Sorrento a delight to discover.

Whilst in Sorrento, you will enjoy an Italian style luncheon accompanied by wine.

Further along the coast, you will find the coastal town of Amalfi. Take a guided walk to learn of the history and architecture of this quaint town. See the exterior of the Cathedral of St Andrea and admire the Moorish and Gothic architecture.

During your stop in Amalfi, enjoy some free time to wander the narrow streets, or perhaps relax with a coffee or ice-cream in the ‘piazza’ and absorb the atmosphere.

Your return journey will be along the mountain road before taking the motorway to Naples.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There are a few steps to negotiate at the luncheon venue. The streets of Amalfi are cobbled and inclined. Flat, comfortable shoes are advisable. If parking in Amalfi town is restricted, a visit to the town of Maiori, Minori or Vietri sul Mare will be made instead. Amalfi drive is along cliff edges, including hairpin bends. It is not suitable for those who suffer with vertigo.