Cartagena, Spain - Mediterranean Cruises

Delve into the heart of the Old Quarter at Murcia with a visit to the 13th century Cathedral, the façade of which is considered to be one of the best examples of baroque architecture in Spain. In the interior, the stone tracery of the late Gothic ‘Velez Chapel’ is sure to impress.

Enjoy a refreshment before visiting the Sanctuary of the Fuensanta, one of the region’s most revered religious sanctuaries. Of particular note are the frescoes on the interior of the dome, depicting the yearly pilgrimage of the statue of the Virgin.

A panoramic walking tour of Cartagena, beautifully situated on the superb natural harbour, starts off with a stroll past the monument to the Heroes of Cavite and the Town Hall. Admire the 18th century doorway of the Casino and the delightful modernist houses. Hear of the history behind the Roman Theatre and its commemorative descriptions.



Guests are advised that there is approximately three hours of walking with some steps to negotiate.

Spend a full day in Alicante, doing the things that you like to do. Why not visit the Castle of Santa Barbara, stroll through the charming Old Quarter taking in the Town Hall and the Cathedral, or admire the quaint streets of the Barrio Santa Cruz (the Holy Cross Quarter).

Perhaps you would prefer to simply relax and watch the world go by as you sip a refreshing ‘horchata’ in the shade of the palms of the beautiful Esplanade of Spain or take a dip in the crystal blue Mediterranean sea. If shopping is your thing, head for the famous El Corte Inglés Department Store. You could even treat yourself to a lunch of delicious seafood paella, whilst enjoying the view over the yacht harbour. The day is yours to truly spend as you wish. The options are endless.



This excursion will operate by coach and on foot.: Your guide will give a commentary during your journey to Alicante and provide any information you may require to help you enjoy your day to the full. A map and information booklet will be provided to help you plan your time. Please note no meals or entrance fees are included. The drive to Alicante takes approximately 1¾ hours each way.

Sit back and relax as you drive south through the Murcian countryside to the once thriving mining town of La Unión. The Romans were the first people to begin extracting minerals from the mines here and with a landscape that is dotted with zinc, iron, lead and pyrite you will have some stunning photograph opportunities.

Cartagena was founded by the Phoencians in 227BC but flourished as part of the Roman Empire, when it was known as Cathargo Nova. Around the city there is an abundance of Phonecian, Roman, Byzantine and Moorish remains and as your city panorama continues around Town Hall Square and Calle Mayor (main street) you will see the contrasting architecture.

One of the most interesting remains of the city is the Roman Theatre Museum. Once inside, enjoy a guided walk around the Museum and learn more about the many influences that the inhabitants of this important region had. If you don’t feel like walking, there is the option to watch a DVD about the Museum and Roman Theatre while you wait for the group.


This tour will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately 40 minutes of optional walking at the Roman Theatre Museum.

Set in the heart of Costa Blanca, Elche is surrounded by thousands of palm trees, which were originally introduced by the Phoenicians in around 300 BC. Enjoy a stroll along the paths between the ponds and the abundant plants, shrubs, trees and cacti in the Priest’s Garden. The Garden’s focal point is the magnificent eight trunked ‘Imperial Palm’. Treat your taste buds to a specially-prepared tasting of local produce such as dates, fig bread, dried apricots and date liqueur, while you admire a demonstration of how a palm tree is pruned.

In the old town centre, a short visit will be made to the Basilica de Santa Maria. This delightful, blue-domed baroque church, built in the 17th century is where the yearly passion play, the ‘Mystery of Elche’ is held.

Stroll through the tranquil Municipal Park, before enjoying some free time to explore Elche on your own.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The journey to/from Elche is approximately 1¼ hours each way. This tour involves walking over flat, hard-packed sand and pavements for approximately three hours.

The fascinating Centre of Cartagena History is situated in the Tower of Homage, one of the few buildings that remain from the Castle of Conception. Here, up-to-date technology helps you to enjoy a relaxing ‘journey’ through the different civilisations. Enjoy panoramic views over the city and see the site of the Roman Theatre, discovered by chance in 1897.

Enter the Punic world in The Interpretation Centre of the Punic Wall, which protects the remains of the wall once used to defend Cartagena. An informative audio-visual presentation will highlight the Punic Wars from the viewpoint of one of the characters. A visit will be made to the 16th century crypt to see the now faint frescoes of Death, the Great Leveller, dancing on the Papal Crown.

The Roman period is well represented by two visits beneath the modern city. The Decumano will show you a tract on the main Roman thoroughfare, lined with the remains of the thermal baths and shops.

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Please note three hours of walking is involved on this tour. Order of highlights may vary.

The sleepy town of La Unión is located a short drive from Cartagena, and was once one of the most important mining districts in Spain.

The cluster of mines that contains the Agrupa Vicenta Mine is situated within the Sierra Minera, a small mountain range north of La Unión. Romans and Carthaginians extracted silver from this area over 2,000 years ago but more recently the mines were exploited for their zinc, iron, lead and pyrite – better known as Fools Gold due to its many similarities to Gold.br/>
On arrival in La Union you will be transferred by ‘Mine Train’ to the entrance of the mine and begin your journey into the subterranean maze of chambers vaults and pillars. With the aid of an audio visual presentation, lights and theatrics, the 150 year old workings of the mine will come alive as you pass old wagons used to transport minerals, mining keys and pyrite crystals on the walls. When you are 80m below ground you will discover an underground lake with water coloured by the pyrite to look like thick chocolate.

At the end of your tour enjoy a short flamenco recital from local La Unión residents before your journey back to Cartagena.


This excursion will operate by coach, trolley train and on foot.This tour involves walking over uneven ground. Flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

A leisurely walk along Cartagena’s seafront with your guide will allow you see some of Cartagena’s most famous sights as you head towards the historical Old Town.

The Peral Submarine is located in Cartagena’s harbour and was the first electric battery powered submarine, its operational abilities led some to refer to it as the first U Boat. You will also pass the Palace Hall, Punic Wall and some of the art nouveau buildings which were erected in the early 20th century due to a growth in the local mining industry.

Along the way you will visit five local Tapas bars where each chef will have prepared traditional tapas of the day which may include Albondigas, Spanish Omlette, Jamon or cheeses for you to sample with a glass of sangria or wine to wash it down.

Your final stop on the walking tour will be the recently restored Roman Theatre of Carthago Nova where you will have some time inside for photographs before walking back to your ship.


This excursion will operate on foot.There is approximately 1½ hours’ walking on this tour, flat comfortable shoes are recommended.