Mediterranean Serenade - 17 nights, September 2013

Corfu is famous for its scenery, lush countryside and most of all, the beaches and warm waters of the Ionian Sea.

A return transfer will transport you from the ship to one of the Island’s most famous beaches at Glyfada, where you will have approximately five hours to enjoy the sun, relax or swim in the sea.

Glyfada Beach is said to be where Odysseus washed up on the final leg of his Odyssey to his way back to Ithaca.

The beach is flanked by cafeterias and kiosks where you may purchase refreshments. The beach offers sun beds and umbrellas for hire so please remember to bring local currency with you.

Note: There is a 450 feet elevated walk to the beach. Before you book this excursion, you must refer to the ‘Beach / Water Related’ paragraph under the Guide to Symbols in this brochure. Please remember sun-cream and 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.

Enjoy a visit to the magnificent Royal residence of Windsor Castle followed by free time to explore the historic town of Windsor.

Windsor Castle, the largest and oldest inhabited castle in the world, is one of the official residences of Her Majesty The Queen. The Castle's dramatic site encapsulates 900 years of British history and dates back to the time of William the Conqueror.

Enjoy an audio tour around the opulent rooms of the Castle including the splendid State Apartments and grand St Georges Hall where the Queen entertains visiting heads of states. The rooms are furnished with some of the finest works of art from the Royal Collection, including paintings by Rembrandt, Reubens and Gainsborough. You will be able to admire the world famous Queen Mary's Dolls' House, which took three years to complete and involved 1,500 craftsmen, artists and authors. The house has electric lighting, hot and cold running water and even flushing lavatories.

One of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in England can be found in St George's Chapel. The chapel contains the tombs of ten sovereigns, including Charles I, Henry VIII and his third wife Jane Seymour.

After visiting the Castle, there will be around one hour of free time to explore the town of Windsor with its Georgian shops, houses and inns.

Note: The transfer time to Windsor is 1½ hours. There is a ½ mile walk from the car park to the Castle entrance and two hours walking within the Castle. If the Royal Family is in residence some of the state rooms will be unavailable. St George’s Chapel is closed on Sundays. Queues may be experienced due to the strict security procedures. Luncheon is not included to allow maximum flexibility. Please remember to carry local currency (pounds sterling).

Discover Sicily’s most famous and dramatic landmark, Mount Etna, and enjoy a visit to the charming Gival Jewellery Workshop.

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. You will have a short while to explore this amazing location independently and take photographs of the foreboding scenery.

Afterwards, you will take a drive to Giarre to visit the Gival Jewellery Workshop. Upon arrival, you will be given a welcome cocktail, before enjoying a tour of the small workshop. See how individual masterpieces of fine Italian gold are made and learn how amber and shells of lava are used to make unique creations. To round off your visit, you will be offered some tasty Sicilian delicacies and an opportunity to visit the exhibition room, where you may wish to make some purchases.

Note: The journey time to Etna is around two hours. Due to time limitations, comfort breaks will not be made during the drive. The visit to Etna is half way up to the main sightseeing area only and does not go to the summit. Guests wishing to use the café restrooms at Etna are expected to make a purchase. The time spent at the volcano will be around 30 minutes. 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 and credit or debit cards are accepted for purchases. There are 30 steps to negotiate at the Gival Jewellery Workshop.

A limited number of guests have the opportunity to experience the remarkable St Mark’s Basilica, after it has closed to the public.

From the ship, take a motor launch cruise along the Giudecca Canal, enjoying panoramic evening views of The Redeemer Church, St George’s Island, the Salute Church and St Mark’s Basin. On arrival in the St Mark’s area, you will be met by your guide, who will escort you to the Basilica to share its fascinating history with you.

Saint Mark is the patron saint of Venice and the Byzantine Basilica is where his remains are kept. St Mark’s Basilica is one of the most popular sites in the city and can be crowded with visitors during the day before reverting to a quiet temple of worship once evening falls.

This after-hours viewing of St Marks’ is a wonderful opportunity to see the glory of the Basilica. Illuminated from within, the interior is bathed in a soft glowing light making your experience of this magnificent church even more atmospheric.

Note: Guests should dress appropriately ensuring that shoulders and knees are covered. Photography is not permitted within the Basilica. Please note that although the Basilica is closed to the public, there may be other groups allowed to visit during your time there. In the event that religious services are held in the evening, this tour will be cancelled.

Enjoy the best bits of Malta, during a scenic tour.

Embark on a scenic drive through Malta’s stunning countryside before reaching one of the islands largest natural harbours, Marsaxlokk. Admire this enchanting fishing village with its colourful fishing boats, known locally as luzzu. Continuing along the coastal road, you’ll visit Zurrieq where you can see the Blue Grotto and the eerie rock island of Filfla. Filfla is a sanctuary for numerous migrating birds, but was once used as target practise by the British Forces.

Heading inland you’ll drive to the outskirts of the old capital, Mdina, where you’ll enjoy views of the medieval walled town. Passing through Mosta you’ll see Mosta Church, its unsupported dome is the third largest in the world. Have your camera at the ready, for a photograph stop overlooking St Paul’s Islands. The island is believed to be the place where St Paul was shipwrecked whilst on his way to Rome to face charges.

Back in the capital, Valletta, admire the stunning harbour views from the high vantage point at the Valletta fortifications. Before returning to the ship, you’ll also see the Great Siege Bell, which commemorates over 7000 serviceman, merchants and civilians who died whilst defending Malta during World War II.

Note: There is minimal walking included in this tour, however guests must be able to negotiate the steps of the coach.

What better way to enjoy a day on a Greek island than to take a boat trip along the coast and swim in coves, inaccessible by road.

Start your day on a chartered boat, with a leisurely cruise along the north-eastern coast of Corfu. Gentle rolling plains give way slowly to cliffs overlooking small, quiet bays.

Approximately one and a half hours’ sailing will bring you to the remote beach of Limnopoula. Please bear in mind that due to its isolated nature and locality there are no facilities on the beach.

As you relax on the beach, the crew will be setting out your luncheon. As soon as it is prepared you will be invited to re-board to enjoy their spread, accompanied by local wine.

Afterwards set sail for the beautiful seaside resort of Kassiopi. Spend free time here strolling around the village, before heading for the bay of Aghios Arsenios for more swimming and relaxing.

Note: Before you book this excursion, you must refer to the ‘Beach / Water Related’ paragraph under the Guide to Symbols in this brochure. Please remember your swimwear and towel along with sun protection. In the height of summer there may be other boats at the beach. The beach is pebbly. Please take all possessions onto the beach, as the boat will anchor at sea. Please bear in mind that Aghios Arsenios Bay requires that you step off straight into deep water in order to swim. You will be required to climb down a step ladder and wade ashore. Please note for safety reasons it is not permitted to barbecue on the beach or on board the boat and food is prepared in the morning prior to departure. Space on the open deck is limited and cannot be reserved.

The former capital of Mdina and the beautiful 16th century walled Valletta will provide a perfect introduction to Malta.

Embark on a scenic drive to Malta’s old capital, Mdina, one of the world’s finest examples of a living medieval city.

Once in the heart of the ‘Silent City’, your guide will host you on a walking tour through the narrow, winding medieval streets. Soak up the atmosphere of this old Arab capital, where the squares and houses are characterised by their Norman architecture. Admire the stunning views from the bastions, over the valley and the surrounding areas. Following your guided walk, enjoy some free time to explore further. Mdina Cathedral is certainly worth a visit, with its beautiful mosaics of St Peter and St Paul, or simply relax at one of the cafés watching the world go by.

Your next stop is the present day capital, Valletta. Continuing through the historic streets you’ll visit St John’s Co-Cathedral, complete with elaborate in-laid marble tombstones and monumental artwork. Have your camera at the ready, as you pass the Grand Master’s Palace, which today houses Malta’s Parliament and President’s Office. From the highest point of the 16th-century bastion walls that the Knights of St John built to protect the city are the Barrakka Gardens. From the vantage point, enjoy splendid views of the Three Cities and the Grand Harbour.

Note: Modest attire is required in the cathedrals; shorts are not acceptable and shoulders should be covered. The tour has three hours of walking and some stairs. Comfortable shoes are recommended. St John’s Co-Cathedral is closed on Saturday afternoons, Sundays and Public Holidays. Guests will visit the National Museum of Archaeology as an alternative.

Visit a farmhouse and distillery in the pretty little town of Conegliano, set in the rolling hills of the Prosecco wine region.

You’ll board your air conditioned coach and travel approximately one hour to Conegliano Veneto, the capital of Prosecco and Grappa wine region.

Upon arrival in Conegliano, you will visit a traditional family owned and world renowned winery and distillery, where you can personally talk to the proprietors.

The winery personnel will guide you through the vineyards and teach you how to examine the colour, texture, taste and aroma of both the Grappa and Prosecco grapes.

Despite technological progress, distillation is still a ritual and a poetical process and for this reason the distillation master is considered the alchemist of modern times.

Afterwards, you’ll be invited to take a walk through the vineyards and visit the museum where you’ll have the opportunity to see wine and Grappa bottles together with the glass blown bottles that have won many international awards.

During your visit to the distillery, you’ll have the chance to taste both the Prosecco and Grappa wine varieties.

Note: There is approximately 2½ hours of walking on this tour, over some cobblestoned surfaces. There are steps to negotiate at the distillery and farmhouse. Children under the age of 18 may not participate.

Marvel at the beautiful countryside of Andalusia and its attractive white villages, from the comfort of your coach.

When people mention Andalusia, the images that come to mind are white villages, scenic countryside, agriculture and fighting bulls. Join this tour to get a glimpse of real Andalusian culture.

Your panoramic drive will take you through Medina Sidonia, a town located in the heart of the province of Cadiz – between the mountains and the sea. Along this route, one of the most prestigious herds of bulls can be viewed, set against the backdrop of the historical town of Medina.

Travelling along the so called ‘Bull Route’, your guide will take you into the countryside and explain about the region’s agriculture, such as the surrounding olive groves and vineyards. The guide will also intrigue you with the history of fighting bulls, dating back to Tartesinien and Carthaginian times.

Passing by the village of Vejer de la Frontera, you will reach Conil de la Frontera with its stunning beach. Alight here for a refreshing cup of tea or coffee and the chance to enjoy some free time to explore the village.

Note: You will have approximately 1 hour’s free time at Conil.

A tour that captures the very best of Jerez. Sample sherry before watching the training of world renowned horses.

Driving through Cadiz, your panoramic journey will head to Jerez. Take in such sights as the exterior of Domeq Palace and the Convent Church of Santo Domingo. You will also have a glimpse of the Plaza del Caballo, Horse Square, which contains a monument symbolising the city.

A ‘must-see’ on a visit to Jerez is a guided tour of one of the famous ‘bodegas’. An interesting insight into the blending process will be given and, most importantly, a sherry tasting session of the different types of sherry.

The wine aristocrats of this area take their horsemanship very seriously and some of the finest horses can be seen at the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art. Situated in the grounds of a splendid 19th century palace, this prestigious school was established by Alvaro Domeq in the 1970’s. The Spanish-Andalusian Horses are a world-renowned pure breed with incredible grace, speed, stamina and beauty. Admire these magnificent creatures and their skilled riders as they train for their show.

Note: Guests are advised that there is approximately two hours’ total walking during this tour. There are some steps at both the Bodega and the Equestrian School. The use of cameras is strictly forbidden within the building of the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art, however cameras are permitted in the grounds outside.

Venture into Venice’s intricate maze of hidden passageways, clusters of tightly packed buildings, narrow canals and ornate bridges.

Allow your guide to take you on a journey of discovery. Take a stroll into the heart of Venice through narrow streets and bustling piazzas, over tiny footbridges and past beautiful buildings exuding Venetian character and charm.

See the façade of the vast 14th century Santa Maria Gloriosa Dei Frari church, which is simple but beautifully punctuated with a white marble portico and pinnacles. The square of Campo San Polo is one of the oldest and largest piazzas in Venice, in ancient times it was used for ceremonies and theatrical performances.

After the collapse of several wooden bridges, it was decided that the Rialto Bridge must be constructed in stone. One of only four bridges to cross the Grand Canal, Rialto remains the most famous bridge in Venice.

Campo San Giovanni e Paolo is one of the city’s most monumental squares. Here you’ll find the Church of Santi Giovanni e Paolo, the largest example of Gothic architecture in Venice.

You will make a stop at a nearby café to enjoy some welcome refreshments, before strolling
back to the motor launch for your return journey to the ship.

Note: Flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. If wishing to enter churches independently, please remember to dress appropriately, ensuring your shoulders and knees are covered. Please refrain from taking flash photography within churches.

This leisurely option provides a perfect introduction to Gibraltar followed by a spot of English tea.

A relaxing drive North will cross Gibraltar's unique runway to the border between this small colony and Spain. There will not be a stop here, but as you drive by there is a great opportunity to view this remarkable border and the Spanish mainland beyond.

Proceeding along the outskirts of town and passing the American War Memorial and the Trafalgar Cemetery, you will soon reach Europa Point. From this vantage point, admire the fine views of the coast of North Africa, twelve miles across the famous Straits of Gibraltar. From here, you can appreciate why this territory was, and continues to be, of such strategic importance to the British Navy.

Relax and enjoy refreshments at the renowned Caleta Hotel. From this location overlooking a Genoese fishing village, you can admire the spectacular views to Spain and North Africa. Take in the scenery as you savour a delightful tea accompanied by a tempting selection of sandwiches, scones and cakes.

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Discover Malta’s rich military history from its fortifications to war tunnels.

Sit back, relax and admire the scenery, as you head to the south of the island. At the mouth of the Grand Harbour stands the imposing Fort Rinella. Built by the British between 1876 and 1886 to protect Malta from potential Italian seaborne attacks, the fort housed the largest cannon, an Armstrong 100-ton gun, which could fire shells up to eight miles. Enjoy some free time to explore the Museum and sample the local soft drink, Kinnie, a bitter-sweet orange soda.

Your next stop is in the heart of Valletta at the Lascaris War Rooms. Here, you’ll witness how the WW2 Mediterranean Campaign was controlled and won. Finally, enjoy an age-old tradition, the firing of the Midday Gun at Saluting Battery in the Upper Barrakka Gardens. Afterwards, take a guided tour around the Battery, which was used during the British period to provide ceremonial salutes to visiting dignitaries and ships as well as to synchronise the clocks on all the ships in the harbour.

Note: There is approximately 2 hours of walking over paved streets included on this tour.

Discover the tiny town of Taormina, one of Sicily's most impressive attractions, boasting incredible views and ancient ruins.

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.

Note: 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 café restrooms in Taormina are expected to make a purchase. Euros and credit or debit cards are accepted for purchases.

Wander the gilded halls of the Doge’s Palace, marvel at St Mark’s and enjoy a gondola ride through tranquil canals.

See the Doge’s Palace with its gothic arches and delicate marble façade. Discover the opulent interior allowing the lavishly decorated rooms, golden staircase, and Venetian masterpieces to dazzle you. Venture into the gloomier Palace Prisons, via the sorrowful Bridge of Sighs.

Enjoy the atmosphere of St Mark’s Square, the epicentre of Venice. Admire the architectural delights: the formal public buildings, imposing campanile tower and splendid Doge’s Palace flanked by the stunning Basilica.

Marvel at the one of the most beautiful buildings in the world, St Mark's Basilica (interior visit is unguided).

Complete your Venetian experience with a glide along the city’s enchanting canals on a gondola. Riding six per gondola, enjoy the sights from a different perspective on the city’s most famous form of transport.

Time permitting, you will have a short while for shopping or independent exploration at the end of the tour.

Note: This tour is mainly on foot and involves a lot of standing. Flat, non-slip shoes are recommended. Please refer to the notes from VCE001 & VCE002 regarding the Doge’s Palace, Basilica and gondolas. The order of the itinerary may vary.