Valletta, Malta - Mediterranean Cruises

Transported to a bygone era, the ancient capital of Mdina is one of the finest examples of a fortified Arab citadel in Europe, this unique city boasts an abundance of magnificent architecture. As you wind your way through a labyrinth of narrow streets it is easy to see how the Maltese withstood several invasions by using the imposing walls and majestic buildings to serve as their defences. Enjoy a visit to the baroque St Paul Cathedral, before continuing to the bastions to capture panoramic views of the island.

In the heart of the picturesque village of Naxxar is the stunning Palazzo Parisio, known to many as 'Mini Versailles'. The relatively modest façade masks a sumptuous and flamboyant chateau, lavishly decorated across the centuries in exuberant style by the most eminent craftsmen of the time. Your guide will host you on a tour of the interior, rich with fine frescoes, magnificent marble, rare paintings and extravagant gilding. The internationally recognised landscaped gardens, are acclaimed as being among the finest in Europe. During your visit you will be served tea, coffee and cake.


This excursion operates by coach and on foot. This tour is not suitable for children under six years old. There is approximately two hours of walking over paved and cobbled terrain.

Your picturesque drive through the city will start off by passing the Valletta fortifications via Fort St Elmo. Along the scenic coast road you will see St Paul's Islands where St Paul was said to have been shipwrecked in AD60. Heading north, you will pass Mdina, the old medieval capital of Malta, its bastions and Cathedral dome dominating the skyline. It is a place of timeless atmosphere, cultural and religious treasures.

Enjoy a brief photo stop at the quaint fishing village of Marsaxlokk, where you can view the local fishermen at work. During the Great Siege of Malta, Marsaxlokk harbour was used as an anchorage by the Turkish fleet. Today, the only boats anchored in the harbour are the colourful Maltese fishing boats known as the ‘luzzu'. Your next stop is at the beautiful 19th century Southport Villa and Gardens, where you will be served some delicious local delicacies including, cheese and pea cakes, galletti and gbejniet. Before you depart, view the elegant mature fruit orchard and windmill.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot.This is a mainly scenic tour with little walking involved, there are several steps at Southport Villa.

Embark on a scenic drive to Mdina, the old medieval capital of Malta. Then it’s all aboard the trolley train for a 30 minute guided tour. Enjoy an informative commentary about the history, culture and architecture of Rabat, Mtarfa and Mdina.

En route, you’ll pass the famous Roman Catacombs of St Paul and St Agatha. Have your camera at the ready to capture the beautiful St Paul's Church, which was built above a grotto where St Paul is said to have taken refuge after being shipwrecked on Malta in 60 AD. As you enter the town of Mtarfa, one landmark stands out above all else, the Clock Tower, built in 1895 by British forces and recently lovingly restored. Your trolley train continues over the old railway bridge past the historic Notabile Railway Station to the Mdina Bastions. Your final destination is through Greek Gate Tunnel up to the terminus near Domus Romana.

Then it’s time for your guide to host you on a walk through the narrow streets of Rabat to discover the city’s charms. Before you head back to the ship, you’ll have some free time to explore Mdina at your leisure, browsing through the souvenir shops or simply relaxing at one of the cafés.


This excursion operates by coach, trolley train and on foot. There is approximately one hour of walking included on this tour. The terrain is uneven in parts. Wheelchairs cannot be stored onboard the trolley train due to space limitations.

San Anton Palace and its Gardens owe their origin to Grand Master Fra Antoine de Paule in 1623. The Palace was planned on generous proportions to accommodate a number of guests and domestic staff.

Successive Grand Masters' continued to use this Palace as their country residence. Captain (later Sir) Alexander Ball resided at the Palace first as Chief of the Maltese Congress and subsequently as Chief Commissioner. In 1974 it became the official residence of the President of Malta.

Upon arrival at the President’s Palace, you’ll visit the inner quarters where foreign dignitaries congregate and are entertained. Your guide will walk you through the various rooms and point out interesting artefacts followed by a stroll in the private gardens with beautiful fountains, lawns and majestic trees. The flower beds provide a colourful contrast against the surrounding greenery.

Enjoy some light refreshments in the gardens.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot All proceeds made by the Palace will go entirely towards the Community Chest Fund, whose only aim is to help philanthropic institutions and persons with special needs. There is up to 2½ hours’ total walking on this tour including steps and stairs.

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 will 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 will drive to the outskirts of the old capital, Mdina, where you will enjoy views of the medieval walled town. Passing through Mosta you will 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 will also see the Great Siege Bell, which commemorates over 7000 serviceman, merchants and civilians who died whilst defending Malta during World War II.


This tour will operate by coach and on foot.There is minimal walking included in this tour, however guests must be able to negotiate the steps of the coach.

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 will 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.


This tour will operate by coach and on foot 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.

See parts of Malta rarely visited by tourists, on an action-packed half day full of scenic beauty and fun.

Travel to the north of Malta to Mellieha, where you‘ll see the Red Tower built by the Knights and a panoramic view over the Maltese Islands.

Drive through the countryside and travel off road to view Popeye Village where the original ‘Popeye’movie was shot, and Golden Bay, recently made famous by Brad Pitt in the shooting of the film ‘Troy’.

Stop for a swim, in crystal clear waters (weather permitting). Proceed to Fomm ir-Rih and Dingli Cliffs, where sloping terrain, dotted with tiny cultivated plots, ends sharply on the edge of steep cliffs that drop straight down into the sea.

You’ll find yourself surrounded by the colours and scents of the Mediterranean as you pass through fishing villages where it seems that time has stood still.


ACTIVITY EXCURSIONS
You and all those in your party should be aware that, in undertaking activity excursions, you will be involved in a degree of physical exertion and/or activity such as hiking, biking, snorkelling, kayaking, diving etc. By booking the excursion you confirm that you and all those in your party are in good physical and mental condition, with no history of conditions such as seizures, dizziness, fainting, heart condition, respiratory problems or back/neck problems (by way of example only). You should also ensure that no one in your party is taking medicine that carries a warning about impairment of physical or mental abilities. If you are pregnant this type of excursion may not be appropriate for you. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are fit and well enough to take part in the activities booked and you are reminded to take care for your own safety. Because of the risks associated with activity excursions, you may be asked by the excursion provider to sign a document which may affect or limit the excursion provider’s liability. Comfortable flat walking shoes are recommended.

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 4X4 and on foot. If wishing to swim, please wear your swimsuit under your clothes and bring a towel. Due to vehicle capacity and configuration, there may be some separation of guests in larger groups. Not recommended for guests with back problems or pregnant women.