European Connoisseur Cruise book

CRUISE GUIDE

11 − 23 June 2018 Seville to London, 13 days

EUROPEAN CONNOIS SEUR

A four-country ‘feast for the senses’ cruise from the shores of Spain to London, with time to appreciate iconic cathedrals and vineyards, picturesque harbours and gardens.

INTRODUCTION In this booklet, you will find useful destination information and a comprehensive guide to both included and optional shore excursions.

It also introduces your guest speakers and includes an invaluable reading guide to add an extra dimension of appreciation to your cruise.

We look forward to welcoming you on board.

Please note – while we will do our best to adhere to this full itinerary, there may be changes at the discretion of the Captain, due to weather advisories, port traffic and other unforeseeable circumstances.

2

This Atlantic adventure from the shores of Spain to the UK’s vibrant capital is full of sensory pleasures.

We begin with a cruise along the picturesque Guadalquivir River from Seville out to sea.

Lisbon Lisbon, the ‘city of the explorers’ is our next stop, with the chance to admire monuments and monasteries and taste the delicious pasteis de Belem.

More tasting, this time of outstanding port wines, is the order of the day in lovely Oporto, then we visit Vigo, gateway to Santiago de Compostela and the iconic cathedral which has attracted so many pilgrims. A cruise along the Gironde River brings us to another world-famous wine city – Bordeaux – before we continue north to England’s stunning West Country and the pretty harbour town of Honfleur, so beloved of the Impressionists.

Seville

YOUR ITINERARY

AEG180611

2018

PORT

ARRIVE

DEPART

11 JUN

SEVILLE Spain Embark Aegean Odyssey

12 JUN

At Sea

13 JUN

LISBON Portugal

7.00am

6.00pm

14 JUN

OPORTO Portugal

1.00pm

8.00pm

15 JUN

VIGO Spain

6.00am

8.00pm

16 JUN

At Sea

17 JUN

BORDEAUX France

18 JUN

BORDEAUX France

19 JUN

At Sea

20 JUN

FALMOUTH England

21 JUN

• UNESCO World Heritage Sites galore! Lisbon’s spectacular Monastery of Jeronimos; historic Bordeaux, the poetically-named ‘Port of the Moon’; and the magnificent Old Town of Santiago de Compostela, dominated by the pilgrim’s cathedral.

6.00pm

11.30am

VOYAGE HIGHLIGHTS

• Sublime wine tasting in Oporto, home of port, and Bordeaux, capital of perhaps the world’s most renowned wine region.

O

• Memorable small-ship cruising along the Guadalquivir and Gironde rivers.

10.45pm

• The Eden Project, the world’s largest indoor rainforest, along with the forgotten D-Day history of Slapton Sands.

8.30am

11.00pm

DARTMOUTH England

7.00am

5.00pm

• Appreciate the clarity of light and painterly scenes that so bewitched the impressionists in Honfleur.

22 JUN

HONFLEUR France

8.00am

noon

23 JUN

TILBURY England Disembark Aegean Odyssey

7.00am

O Overnight stay in port

Ship at anchor

Please note – this is the cruise itinerary. If you have booked a longer programme with pre- and post-cruise hotel stays, you can find this information on page 12.

The Eden Project

3

YOUR CRUISE DAY BY DAY

11 JUNE 2018 SEVILLE, SPAIN Embark Aegean Odyssey in Seville in the afternoon. The ship sets sail this evening.

12 JUNE AT SEA A relaxing day at sea is the perfect opportunity to acquaint yourself with the many excellent amenities and activities on board.

13 JUNE LISBON, PORTUGAL Lisbon tops many a list of great cultural cities, but surprisingly it remains one of the least-visited. Join those ‘in the know’ in appreciation of its lovely historic quarters, elegant squares and glorious seafaring history.

INCLUDED EXCURSION

LISBON CITY HIGHLIGHTS (Half day, AM) We begin in the pleasant riverside Belem district, home to three of the city’s great landmarks – the thrusting Modernist Monument of the Discoveries, the fairytale Belem Tower and the spectacularly ornate UNESCO World Heritagelisted Monastery of Jeronimos, built more than 500 years ago to celebrate Vasco da Gama’s discovery of a sea route to India.

Our tour then continues through the old quarter of Alfama to downtown Baixa, Restauradores and the Avenida da Liberdade, stopping at Alto do Parque to admire the fine city views. Rossio Square is the liveliest and most beautiful of Lisbon’s plazas, witness to key historical events from celebrations to revolutions, executions to bullfights; and Almada’s monumental Christ the King statue recalls Rio’s iconic Christ the Redeemer in scale and impact.

Lisbon Old Town

4

KEY TO SYMBOLS

OPTIONAL EXCURSION

INCLUDED EXCURSION

SINTRA AND QUELUZ $45 per person (Half day, PM)

OPORTO CITY HIGHLIGHTS AND PORT TASTING (Half day, PM)

Extensive walking

As an alternative to an afternoon at leisure, join this optional tour to Sintra and Queluz, known as the ‘Land of Kings’. In this fine mountain setting are a host of splendid royal palaces, and a romantic town that rewards leisurely exploration.

Oporto’s Romanesque Cathedral, built in the 12th century and extensively rebuilt in the 17th and 18th centuries, is the first stop on our included city tour, followed by the 19th century Stock Exchange Palace, whose Moorish-influenced rooms are now used by the Chamber of Commerce, the President and members of the government. We’ll then cross the Douro by way of the unique double-decker Dom Luis Bridge, to Gaia for a visit to a well-known wine cellar for a tasting of port wine.

Uneven surfaces Archaeological ground Significant steps Uphill sections Features a boat ride Cable car Bustling streets Winding roads

14 JUNE OPORTO, PORTUGAL After a morning at sea, we arrive in Oporto, set on the banks of the Douro downstream from the terraced vineyards, which gave its name to the iconic wine which made its fortune and worldwide reputation. The great port houses are still there, and the rest of the city has an unpretentious, higgledy-piggledy charm, with narrow cobbled streets and lovely historic houses and churches.

Lunch included Insect repellent required

Oporto

voyagestoantiquity.com 5

15 JUNE VIGO, SPAIN Though perhaps better known to cruise travellers as the gateway to Santiago de Compostela, Vigo has much to interest the visitors, with an enthralling heritage and natural beauty, from unspoilt soft sand beaches to the forested mountains of Galicia, on its doorstep.

Vigo

INCLUDED EXCURSION Choice A

SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA (Full day) As the reputed burial place of the apostle St James, Santiago de Compostela was one of the most significant sites of Christendom and the culmination of the great Europe-wide network of pilgrimage routes known as the Camino, or ‘Way of St James’. The Cathedral impresses as much today as it must have then, towering above Obradoiro Square, fringed with palaces and porticos on its other sides. This full day guided tour also includes the Hostal dos Reis Catolicos, a 15th century hospital for pilgrims, the crypt where St James is believed to be interred, the pilgrimage museum and medieval town.

6

INCLUDED EXCURSION Choice B

LEISURELY SIGHTSEEING OF VIGO (Half day AM) For a more leisurely day, choose this morning tour of Vigo and an afternoon at leisure. As you drive through the city to enjoy the panoramic views from La Guia, learn more about the fountains, monuments and statues of Plaza de Espana and Plaza de America.

There is free time to enjoy the palace and Frenchstyle gardens of 17th century Castrelos Park, and a stop is made at the 19th century Galician country manor of Pazo Los Escudos.

16 JUNE AT SEA The Daily Journal on board Aegean Odyssey details a comprehensive list of activities, should you be undecided how to spend another laid-back day at sea.

17 JUNE BORDEAUX, FRANCE Aegean Odyssey turns from the Bay of Biscay into the tranquil waters of the Gironde, cruising inland to the magnificent city of Bordeaux, capital of perhaps the world’s greatest wine region. The afternoon is at leisure.

Please note – the Tall Ships Regatta is taking place in Bordeaux 14-18 June 2018. On this voyage, Aegean Odyssey will be docking in the Bordeaux-Bassens terminal, approximately six miles downstream from central Bordeaux.

18 JUNE BORDEAUX, FRANCE Said to have the most beautiful streets in France, lined with splendid 18th century buildings, Bordeaux is the largest urban UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Be sure to sample some of the food and wine for which the city is so renowned.

INCLUDED EXCURSION Choice A

UNESCO BORDEAUX (Half day, AM or PM) The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bordeaux is perfectly suited to exploration on foot. Our guided walk begins at the Second World War German submarine base, and continues to one of Europe’s largest squares (L’Esplanade des Quinconces), the 18th century Archbishop’s Palace, the Cathedral of St Andrew and the Grand Theatre de Bordeaux. We conclude with a stroll to La Place du Parlement, in the heart of the historic St Pierre district, and elegant Place de la Bourse, dedicated to Louis XV.

Bordeaux

7

INCLUDED EXCURSION Choice B

OPTIONAL EXCURSION

PANORAMIC BORDEAUX AND WINE-TASTING (Half day, AM or PM)

SAINT EMILION VILLAGE $75 per person (Half day, PM)

Alternatively, enjoy a panoramic view of the city’s main sights en route to wine tasting at one of this acclaimed region’s most prestigious estates.

Yet more opportunities to sample world-famous vintages await this afternoon on an optional excursion to the village of Saint Emilion, combining rich history, beautiful architecture and exceptional wine estates.

INCLUDED EXCURSION Choice C

MEDOC VINEYARDS AND WINE CHATEAUX ROAD (Half day, AM or PM) At the mouth of the Gironde is the wine-making area of Medoc, where the temperate climate and soil properties encourage vine growth. We visit one of the great estates of the Medoc.

19 JUNE AT SEA How will you spend your final full day at sea? An indulgent spa treatment? A good book from the well-stocked library?

8

20 JUNE FALMOUTH, ENGLAND We arrive in England’s wild and wonderful West Country at breakfast time. In the summer months, Cornwall’s coastline, dotted with lovely bays, could almost be mistaken for the Mediterranean. If you decide not to join one of our included excursions, why not take a short taxi ride from the vibrant and creative port of Falmouth to blue flag Gyllyngvase Beach, an arc of golden sand and tempting, sparkling shallows. Fingers crossed for great weather!

INCLUDED EXCURSION Choice A

THE EDEN PROJECT (Full day) The Eden Project, which opened in April 2001, is the world’s largest global garden, housing thousands of exotic plants and trees from the Amazon, West Africa, Southeast Asia and beyond, housed inside a glass dome large enough to fully enclose the Tower of London. On this full-day tour, we drive through the characterful city of Truro and into the peaceful countryside on our way to this dramatic Garden of Eden, where you will have some three hours to enjoy it at your leisure.

INCLUDED EXCURSION Choice B

CRUISE VIDEO

ST MICHAEL’S MOUNT (Half day, AM)

Scan the QR code below to go straight to the online video for this cruise*

Alternatively, transfer from the ship to Marazion for a morning visit to stunning St Michael’s Mount, isolated from the mainland by a tidal causeway. After the Norman Conquest of 1066, our continental invaders were struck by the similarity of the rock to their own Mont Saint-Michel, and they invited the monks of that abbey to build this smaller, but no less impressive, version in Cornwall. After a guided tour, cross back to Marazion to explore Cornwall’s oldest town. The afternoon is at leisure in Falmouth.

* UK version

21 JUNE DARTMOUTH, ENGLAND Aegean Odyssey sails among elegant yachts and myriad other vessels to dock in the historic town of Dartmouth, home to the distinctive Britannia Royal Naval College and with easy access to a host of other fine Devon attractions.

voyagestoantiquity.com 9

INCLUDED EXCURSION Choice A

SLAPTON SANDS AND THE FORGOTTEN HEROES OF D-DAY (Half day, AM) This excursion offers a unique insight into the largest seaborne invasion in history with a focus on the tragic events of ‘Exercise Tiger’, a rehearsal which went tragically wrong. A local guide will explain the details of that fateful night, before a visit to the memorial presented by the United States to local residents in gratitude for their help. We then continue to Torcross to see one of the Sherman tanks brought up from the beach, and afterwards return to Dartmouth for a walking tour of the town and some time for independent exploration.

Dartmouth

10

Slapton Sands

INCLUDED EXCURSION Choice B

MEDIEVAL TOTNES AND BUCKFAST ABBEY (Half day, AM) Alternatively, join us in appreciation of an 11th century abbey painstaking rebuilt at the turn of the 20th century by a group of monks, with such skill that only the absence of a patina of age distinguishes this splendid church from its original fabric. A presentation and exhibition explains more, and then there is time to explore the abbey and its gardens before continuing to the medieval market town of Totnes, where you may climb the steep hill for a guided tour of the well-preserved castle or make your own discoveries.

There is further time at leisure in the afternoon.

22 JUNE HONFLEUR, FRANCE The picturesque harbour town of Honfleur is bathed in a natural light which enchanted the Impressionists and inspired other famous residents such as the composer Erik Satie. Its narrow streets are a delight to explore on foot.

Honfleur Honfleur

INCLUDED EXCURSION

HONFLEUR WALKING TOUR (Half day, AM) A walking tour through the quaint, photogenic streets of Honfleur takes us to the 15th century wooden Church of St Catherine, the 17th century salt warehouses, the former governor’s residence and the charming old port. Then there is a little time at leisure – to sample some local Calvados, perhaps, or dash off a quick sketch or two in the spirit of Monet.

Aegean Odyssey sets sail for London this afternoon.

23 JUNE TILBURY, ENGLAND Disembark Aegean Odyssey after breakfast.

111

PRE-CRUISE SEVILLE STAY AND OPTIONAL MADRID AND LONDON EXTENSIONS

Voyages to Antiquity offers a variety of cruise packages, include land touring elements before and/or after the cruise itself, in this case a two-night stay in Seville.

OPTIONAL 2-NIGHT MADRID HOTEL STAY (7-9 June 2018) Add a stay in the Spanish capital including two nights in a centrally located hotel, a sightseeing tour of the historic old town, Plaza Mayor and the Royal Palace and a high speed, first class rail journey. Call your local booking office for prices and availability.

9 JUNE SEVILLE, SPAIN Upon arrival in Seville, we transfer you to your centrally located hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure.

10 JUNE SEVILLE, SPAIN Take your time appreciating Lonely Planet’s ‘Best City to Visit in 2018’, which still has the air of the legendary about it, with its grand, sun-drenched plazas, and fairytale palaces.

INCLUDED EXCURSION Choice B

PANORAMIC DRIVE & PLAZA DE ESPANA (Half day, AM) Take in other city highlghts on a panoramic drive.

11 JUNE SEVILLE, SPAIN Seville is gateway to the magical UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cordoba, home to the iconic Mezquita CathedralMosque. Alternatively, transfer directly to the ship.

INCLUDED EXCURSION

CORDOBA (Full day) Cordoba’s Mezquita cathedral-mosque is one of the great travel icons. Our tour includes a visit, along with the old Jewish Quarter and the stunning Street of Flowers.

INCLUDED EXCURSION Choice A

Alcazar Queen’s Bath, Seville 12 12

SEVILLE CITY SIGHTSEEING (Half day, AM)

OPTIONAL 2-NIGHT LONDON HOTEL STAY (23-25 June 2018) – Non-UK travellers

Our tour takes in views of Seville’s 15th century Cathedral, a visit to the Alcazar Royal Palace, and a stroll through the narrow streets of the old Jewish Quarter of Santa Cruz.

An extended stay in London, including panoramic sightseeing from the water, reveals the best of the UK’s vibrant capital. Call your local booking office for prices and availability.

Voyages to Antiquity cruises include shore excursions in almost all ports of call. Some ports offer different sightseeing opportunities – in these instances, we may offer additional, optional alternatives at extra cost.

WHAT TO EXPECT Our sightseeing programmes are outstanding, but can be

challenging. Visits to historic sites and natural wonders often require walking over uneven surfaces, up and down multiple steps or steep paths. Therefore a reasonable level of fitness and mobility is recommended. Some passengers may decide to take a break from excursions on more strenuous days and instead explore the environs of the port.

Look for the symbols alongside each excursion description. The key to these symbols may be found on page 5. These give a good idea of the level of walking involved.

Tour durations are approximate and, to avoid overcrowding and ensure you enjoy the best experience, the sequence of site visits and operating times may vary. The staff on board Aegean Odyssey will brief you each evening on the plans for the following day and all departure times and meeting points will be advised in the Daily Journal.

Some countries require you to carry certain documents ashore and this will be advised on board at the appropriate time.

As a result of severe weather or unforeseen changes to opening/closing times, we reserve the right to alter, cancel or substitute an included excursion at any time. This happens extremely rarely and every reasonable effort is made to ensure that the advised schedules are followed. If a change is made, guests will be advised in their final documents or at the shore excursion briefings on board.

EXCURSIONS WITH THE EXTENSIVE WALKING SYMBOL Some excursions which feature in our programmes are not suitable for guests with any mobility restrictions. In accordance with our Fitness to Travel statement and in order to ensure Voyages to Antiquity can deliver a high quality land programme, the ship reserves the right to transfer you to an alternative excursion if they believe that your original choice is unsuitable. Please consider your fellow guests and only select this option if you are certain you are able to meet the activity level.

THE SHORE EXCURSION TEAM Our Shore Excursion Manager and Assistants are on hand to make sure you get the most out of your excursion experience.

Informative briefings will be provided on the tour options and more generally on

upcoming ports of call, and the team can field any further questions in the Reception area.

During the excursions, we endeavour to have a representative on every coach, but this is not always possible and cannot be guaranteed. The role of the team ashore is to ensure the smooth running of the excursion in conjunction with the local guide and operator. This often means rotating between groups. Though always keen to assist, the team therefore cannot be responsible for providing walking support or making sure that everyone in the group is present at a particular time. Please ensure that you sign up for your preferred excursions at the embarkation desk at the start of the cruise. Some excursions may operate subject to minimum numbers, and we need to know in advance how many passengers are joining each excursion in order to book coaches and guides.

SHORE EXCURSION INFORMATION

OUR GUIDES A good local guide, keen to share his or her knowledge and

enthusiasm for a particular attraction can transform a visit. All of our shore excursions feature qualified, highly-rated English-speaking guides with just this expertise and passion.

SHOPPING Whilst Voyages to Antiquity shore excursions focus on the history and

culture of a particular destination or attraction, some offer the chance to visit local workshops and view demonstrations of crafts and artistic techniques. Unlike other cruise operators, we have no affiliation with any shopping establishment. We do not assume responsibility for purchases made ashore and recommend insuring anything you choose to ship home.

TRANSPORTATION Various modes of transportation may be used depending on the excursion. Motorcoaches are deluxe, air-conditioned vehicles unless not available in that port. Wi-Fi is not generally available on coaches.

CLOTHING TIPS Although high summer temperatures are not expected at this

time of year, we strongly recommend the use of sun hats and sunscreen during excursions. Sturdy walking shoes are also advised, especially when visiting archaeological sites. Please dress respectfully for visits to sites of a religious nature – generally this means that shoulders and knees should be covered. Further clothing tips will be provided at the on-board briefings, along with weather forecasts for the following day.

13

YOUR GUEST SPEAKERS

A quintessential element of the Voyages to Antiquity experience is our programme of on-board lectures from world-renowned guest speakers, carefully chosen for their expertise, their passion and enthusiasm for their subject, and their ability to engage with an audience. 6-9 talks per cruise, held in the Ambassador Lounge, add an extra dimension of understanding and appreciation to a destination or culture. Topics range from art and history to archaeology and architecture, food and wine to theology and the natural world.

DR JOHN HUGHES Judge for the Royal Horticultural Society

Dr John Hughes

Dr Carrie Gibson

John Hughes has grown plants since childhood, with a particular passion for cacti and other succulents. Unable to do Botany at ‘A’ level, as only Zoology was offered, he went on to study Industrial Chemistry at university and stay on for his PhD. He then embarked on a career as a forensic scientist which included a secondment to work in Peru where he fell in love with all things Latin and with South America in particular. He has spent over three years there, often backpacking and looking to learn about all manner of plants from alpines to tropicals.

Having looked after his parents’ garden from his early teens, John become an active amateur showman and later a horticultural judge. He loves

Sintra

14 14

to share his enthusiasm for plants and has been a frequent speaker to horticultural societies, cactus societies and Alpine Garden Society groups. He is Chairman of the London Group of the Alpine Garden Society, a member of a field club where members study the British flora and fauna in the countryside, a member of the Royal Horticultural Society’s Tender Ornamental Plant Committee for more than a decade and a judge at all the major RHS shows such as Chelsea and Hampton Court. His lectures will introduce some of the beautiful plants that we should be seeing and describe his experiences as a Royal Horticultural Society judge.

Before embarking on a career as a historian, Carrie was a journalist for the Guardian and Observer. She continues to contribute to media outlets, and has most recently worked with BBC Radio 4 and Vox Media in the USA. Her next book, El Norte: The Forgotten Hispanic Past of the United States, is due out in 2018, and continues her work on Spain’s global links, this time examining the relationship between Spain and North America, from the 15th century to the present day.

DR CARRIE GIBSON Author and Journalist Dr Carrie Gibson received her PhD from Cambridge in 2011, and has spent much of the past decade researching the workings of the Spanish Empire, clocking up countless hours in the imperial archives in Seville and travelling extensively through Spain and Portugal to trace this part of the Iberian past. Although her first book, Empire’s Crossroads: A History of the Caribbean from Columbus to the Present Day (2014), concerns connections across the Atlantic, she remains drawn to the roots of the Spanish Empire, returning time and again to Spain.

Oporto

LECTURES

Bordeaux

MEDITERRANEAN CLIMATE PLANTS (John Hughes)

SEVILLE AND THE GOLDEN AGE OF SPAIN (Carrie Gibson)

John Hughes showcases beautiful plants from each of the five areas of the world considered as having ‘Mediterranean’ climates (including southern California and South Australia) and discusses how they have adapted to survive, combining functionality with beauty.

By the late 15th century, Seville’s glory days seemed to belong in the past. But the new trade routes to and from the Americas established in the wake of Columbus’ pioneering voyage, upon which Seville was granted a monopoly by royal decree, ushered in a treasure-filled golden age and elevated the city into an economic powerhouse.

MONET, PAINTER AND GARDENER (John Hughes) This fascinating talk introduces the Impressionists’ love of gardens, particularly Monet, Renoir and Caillebotte, including images of Monet’s garden at Giverny, an overview of the development of his painting style as he battled with cataracts and after their removal, and descriptions of some of the plants and flowers featured in these beautiful works of art.

THE EDEN PROJECT (John Hughes) How was an old clay pit – a scar on the landscape – transformed into a stunning, world-renowned botanical garden with enormous bio-domes housing huge collections of tropical and Mediterranean plants? John Hughes traces the history of Cornwall’s amazing Eden Project.

Florence

REBUILDING LISBON (Carrie Gibson) The Portuguese capital was almost wiped off the map after a devastating earthquake in 1755, but the prime minister, Marquis de Pombal, was determined to make a modern – and earthquake-proof – city rise from the rubble.

BORDEAUX’S IMPERIAL CONNECTION (Carrie Gibson) These days most associated with fine wine, for centuries Bordeaux was the hub of commerce between France and its colonies in the West Indies, which increased tenfold between 1717 and 1789. Tragically it also took its place on the slave trade map.

15

READING GUIDE Oxford’s renowned bookseller Blackwell’s has designed a reading guide specifically for this outstanding cruise itinerary.

Order online at blackwell.co.uk, or enjoy a 10% discount when quoting ‘voyages’ if you order directly on 01865 333623.

Book descriptions may be found at voyagestoantiquity.com.

NON-FICTION Jan Morris Spain £8.99, paperback, ISBN 9780571241767 John Gill Andalucia: A Cultural History £12.00, paperback, ISBN 9781904955443 Brigitte Hintzen-Bohlen Andalusia: Art & Architecture £9.99, paperback, ISBN 9783848003266 Norman Lewis The Tomb in Sevcille £12.99, paperback, ISBN 9781780600086 Gerald Brenan South from Granada £9.99, paperback, ISBN 9780141189321 Diarmaid MacCulloch A History of Christianity £14.99, paperback, ISBN 9780141021898

16

Tony Kevin Walking the Camino: A Modern Pilgrimage to Santiago £9.99, paperback, ISBN 9781921372339 Rene Freund The Road to Santiago: Walking the Way of St James £10.00, paperback, ISBN 9781909961227 Roger Crowley Conquerors: How Portugal Forged the First Global Empire £9.99, paperback, ISBN 9780571290901 Barry Hatton The Portuguese: A Modern History £12.99, paperback, ISBN 9781904955771 Karen Wheeler Sweet Encore: A Road Trip from Paris to Portugal (via Northern Spain) £10.99, paperback, ISBN 9780957106628

Graham Robb The Discovery of France £9.99, paperback, ISBN 9780330427616

Anthony Beevor D-Day £8.99, paperback, ISBN 9780241968970

Ross King Mad Enchantment £9.99, paperback, ISBN 9781408861974

Tim Smit Eden £9.99, paperback, ISBN 9781909513075

Piu Marie Eatwell They Eat Horses Don’t They? £8.99, paperback, ISBN 9781781854464

N A M Roger The Command of the Ocean £20.00, paperback, ISBN 9780141026909

Dr Richard Taylor How to Read a Church £11.99, paperback, ISBN 9781846040733

Simon Jenkins A Short History of England £9.99, paperback, ISBN 9781846684630

Marc Millon Wine: A Global History £10.99, hardback, ISBN 9781780231112 Hugh Johnson Pocket Wine Book 2018 £12.99, hardback, ISBN 9781784722937 Stefan Zweig Marie Antoinette £11.99, paperback, ISBN 9781906548308

Sophia Kingswell & Jennifer Westwood The Fabled Coast £10.99, paperback, ISBN 9780099551072 Carrie Gibaon Empire’s Crossroads £9.99, paperback, ISBN 9781447217282

Collins Bird Guides The Birds of Britain & Europe £19.99, paperback, ISBN 9780007268146 The Wildlife Trusts Concise Coastal Bird Guide £4.99, paperback, ISBN 9781472921796

FICTION Graham Greene Monsignor Quixote £8.99, paperback, ISBN 9780099283942 Jose Saramago Baltasar & Blimunda £9.99, paperback, ISBN 9781860469015 Pascal Mercier Night Train to Lisbon £8.99, paperback, ISBN 9781843547136 Choderlos de Laclos Les Liaisons Dangereuses £7.99, paperback, ISBN 9780199536481

Henri Alain-Fournier Le Grand Meaulnes £8.99, paperback, ISBN 9780099529729

Footprint Handbooks Camino de Santiago £8.99, paperback, ISBN 9781911082187

Daphne du Maurier Frenchman’s Creek £8.99, paperback, ISBN 9781844080410

Eyewitness Guides Portugal £16.99, paperback, ISBN 9780241208281

Winston Graham Ross Poldark £7.99, paperback, ISBN 9781447281528

Marco Polo Lisbon Pocket Guide with Map £6.99, paperback, ISBN 9783829707176

MAPS & GUIDES AA Maps Western Europe £5.49 ISBN 9780749575298 Eyewitness Guides Cruise Guide to Europe £15.99, paperback, ISBN 9781409370222 Eyewitness Guides Seville & Andalusia £13.99, paperback, ISBN 9780241306017

Eyewitness Guides France £17.99, paperback, ISBN 9780241207178 Time Out Guides Devon & Cornwall £12.99, paperback, ISBN 9781846702433 Eyewitness Guides London Top 10 with Map £7.99, paperback, ISBN 9780241209226

Lisbon

17

AEGEAN ODYSSEY

Carrying an average of just 350 passengers, the premium class Aegean Odyssey is small enough to sail along rivers such as the Yangon and Guadalquivir, and into the most characterful ports of call inaccessible to the mega-ships. The service is more personal, the atmosphere more convivial and you get plenty of time to interact with the guest experts.

Yet on the other hand she is large enough to offer a superb range of amenities, including a choice of dining venues and comfortable bars, a relaxing spa centre and one of the best stocked libraries at sea.

Cabins and staterooms are spacious and intelligently designed, and dedicated solo cabins at a low supplement are available across almost all categories, including balcony level.

ON-BOARD FACILITIES • A choice of restaurants • Internet centre • Three lounges

• Outdoor pool

• Four bars

• Athena Health Spa

• Lecture theatre

Aegean Odyssey cruising the Guadalquivir River, Seville

18

and gym

• Library

• Beauty salon

• Shop

• Medical centre

DELIGHTFUL DINING Fortunately, the fascinating and beautiful regions sailed by Aegean Odyssey are also renowned for their strong culinary traditions, sublime local ingredients and delicious signature dishes. We draw on these inspirations to deliver a dining experience of sustained quality in keeping with your chosen itinerary.

MARCO POLO Though the more 'formal' dining option, with full waiter service and multi-course meals, Marco Polo has a casual country club elegance appreciated by guests. Join us here for dinner (and lunch on full days at sea) and enjoy a selection of expertly prepared dishes reflecting the countries visited and accompanied by complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks*.

TERRACE CAFE With a mix of indoor and alfresco seating, the informal Terrace Cafe is a charming alternative to the white glove refinement of the Marco Polo restaurant. Here, friendly staff serve up splendid breakfast buffets and mouthwatering lunch and dinner delights from a variety of stations, including sizzling grilled meats and succulent fish, crisp pizzas and indulgent pasta, fresh salads and fruit, again to the accompaniment of complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks*.

AFTERNOON TEA AND LATE NIGHT SNACKS There is something uniquely pleasurable about afternoon tea aboard a classic cruise ship, and you won't want to miss the scones, pastries and finger sandwiches served up in the Terrace Cafe most days of your cruise.

And if you can manage even more gastronomic delights, hors d'oeuvres and late night snacks, from filo prawns to chocolatedipped strawberries, are available in the Charleston Lounge at 5pm and 10.30pm.

MARCO POLO RESTAURANT Appetisers SHRIMP ROYALE Tiger prawns marinated in pink Champagne sauce on radicchio and endive ANGUS BEEF CARPACCIO Served with porcini mushrooms, arugula lettuce and fresh parmesan flakes SEA SCALLOPS AND CHERRY TOMATO BROCHETTE Served on gorgonzola-flavoured spinach with light tarragon foam

Soup & Salad

WEST INDIAN PUMPKIN & GINGER SOUP INSALATA DI TAORMINA Mediterranean-style salad with lobster, salmon, shrimps green beans, endive, shallots and roasted pine seeds

Main Courses

CASARECCE ALLA SORRENTINA Fresh sautéed pasta with tomatoes, garlic, basil, oregano, parmesan and mozzarella GRILLED FRESH SEA BREAM FILLET Served with Mediterranean herbs, almond broccoli, green asparagus, butter-sautéed Parisienne potatoes and sauvignon sauce GLAZED BARBARIE DUCK SUPREME In Grand Marnier sauce served with red cabbage and almond potato LIGHT MEDIUM FRENCH LAMB RACK In thyme-ciabatta crust with vegetable ragout and lemon potato

Fom the Vegetarian Kitchen

GRILLED EGGPLANT AND BELL PEPPER MASALA Braised in yogurt with Indian spices, served with coconut-pistachio basmati rice ASPARAGUS AND ZUCCHINI TARTER Served with wild rice and sun-dried tomato coulees

Desserts

WARM CHOCOLATE SOUFFLÉ CAKE Served with raspberry sorbet APRICOT - MANGO TART with mocha sauce ICE COUP “BELLINI” with peach and vanilla ice cream CHEESE TROLLEY with a selection of International cheeses SLICED FRESH FRUITS SELECTION OF ICE CREAM & SORBETS

* Complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks with dinner

voyagestoantiquity.com 19

AWARD-WINNING ENRICHMENT Voyages to Antiquity operates the most culturally immersive cruise programme, with internationally renowned guest speakers, a comprehensive selection of expertly-designed shore excursions in every major port of call, an extensive on-board library and a host of other enrichment elements from reading lists prepared by Blackwell’s of Oxford and on-board book clubs to exclusive private visits and local entertainment.

EXPERT GUEST LECTURERS 2-3 guest speakers, pre-eminent in their profession and expert in their field, accompany every departure. 6-9 talks per cruise, 45 minutes each, is the norm, often focusing

WINNER

20

on history, archaeology, art and mythology, but also on more unusual subjects such as botany and viticulture. Talks are delivered in the Ambassador Lounge with a host of visual aids (music, video and high quality maps) and recorded so passengers can catch up at their leisure if they are not able to attend in person. These guest lectures are specifically designed to complement shore excursions, not simply repeat or pre-empt the insight presented by the excellent local guides.

SHORE EXCURSIONS AND PRIVATE VISITS More than 90% of Voyages to Antiquity’s shore excursions are included in the cruise fare. We use the best available guides, coaches and land agents, and excursions are meticulously planned, well-paced

and guided in English. QuietVox sets are issued to all guests, enabling them to hear the guide’s commentary even as they linger to take photographs or make their own explorations. The core shore excursion programme is complemented with exclusive private visits, such as that to the Palazzo Gangi in Palermo where the sumptuous ballroom scenes of Visconti’s The Leopard were filmed.

EVERYDAY ENRICHMENT Aboard or ashore, every day brings enrichment opportunities. The Daily Journal details lectures and excursions, but also local cultural performances, musical concerts, wine tastings, interactive classes and fun quizzes.

Aegean Odyssey’s library, surely the biggest in terms of books-to-passenger ratio, houses hundreds of volumes specially selected by Blackwell’s of Oxford to complement the itinerary programme, along with maps, guidebooks, the latest popular fiction, classics and poetry. In this guide, we provide passengers with a recommended reading list, also prepared by Blackwell’s.

or aperitif in one of several comfortable bars before dinner, and appreciate the music of the resident pianist or string trio afterwards.

ATHENA HEALTH SPA Pampering opportunities abound at the Athena Health Spa, with its full menu of revitalising therapies and treatments including massages and facials. The adjoining fitness centre awaits those seeking to stay active, saunas and steam rooms are available, and nail and hair treatments are provided at the beauty centre.

AT YOUR SERVICE Always serving with a smile, our crew will win your hearts. Your cabin steward will refresh your stateroom before you even realise you need it. Your waiter will remember whether you take tea or coffee, and the barman whether you like your martini shaken or stirred. They and the rest of our officers and crew are dedicated to making your cruise a delightful experience.

...AND REFRESHMENT FOR BODY AS WELL AS MIND Small ship though she is, Aegean Odyssey offers plenty of other amenities to enhance your time aboard and occupy relaxing days at sea. Unwind on the sun deck's padded wooden loungers and cool off with a splash in the outdoor pool; enjoy a cocktail

voyagestoantiquity.com 21

DECK PLANS M

STANDARD INSIDE

L

PREMIUM INSIDE

K

PREMIUM INSIDE

J

STANDARD OUTSIDE

HH* GG*

PREMIUM OUTSIDE PREMIUM OUTSIDE

EE

DELUXE STATEROOM OUTSIDE

CC

DELUXE STATEROOM BALCONY

• • • •

• •

• •

• •

• •

■

• • • •• • • • ■

429429 ▲ ▲ 431431

442442

439439 441441

444444

449449

447447 450450

452452

713 713

718 718

453453

451451 454454

456456

715 715

720 720

717 717

722 722

RECEPTION RECEPTION

536536

535535 539539

538538

• •

CHARLESTON CHARLESTON LOUNGE LOUNGE

537537

HAIRHAIR

DRESSER 543543 DRESSER 540540 541541 547547 INTERNET 542542 545545 549549 INTERNET

544544

725 725

728 728

551551

727 727

730 730

553553

546546

555555

548548

557557

550550

729 729

732 732

731 731

734 734

733 733

736 736

LIBRARY LIBRARY

559559

552552

561561

554554

SHOP SHOP

563563

• • • •

716 716

• • • •

• •

425425

455455 459459 463463

MARCO POLO MARCO POLO RESTAURANT RESTAURANT

DOU DOUBLE

C CAT

460460

ATHENA ATHENA HEALTH HEALTH SPASPA

735 735

738 738

565565

817 817

818 818

737 737

740 740

819 819

820 820

739 739

742 742

821 821

822 822

741 741

744 744

823 823

824 824

743 743

746 746

825 825

826 826

745 745

748 748

BAR BAR

827 827

828 828

747 747

750 750

THE THE TERRACE TERRACE

TERRACE CAFE TERRACE CAFE

CATE CATEGO

C CAT

464464

C CAT

466466

467467

470470

C CAT

471471

474474

C CAT

475475

476476

C CAT

477477

478478

C CAT

C CAT

C CAT

C CAT

MEDICAL MEDICAL

C CAT

C CAT

C CAT

556556

SINGC SINGLE

558558

C CAT

567567

560560

C CAT

569569

562562

C CAT

571571

564564

C CAT

573573

566566

C CAT

575575

568568

C CAT

577577

570570

C CAT

C CAT

C CAT

*Categories GG, I, II and some HH cabins have partially restricted view

22

816 816

815 815

814 814

416416

• •

PREMIUM OUTSIDE

• •

• •

II*

• •

STANDARD OUTSIDE

813 813

• •

JJ

812 812

421421

435435 534534

533533

412412

417417 418418 420420 419419 422422 424424 426 423423 426 428428 430430 ▲ ▲ 427427 432432 434434 433 ▲ ▲ 433 436436 438438 437437 440440

446446

723 723

811 811

530530

531531 532532

413413 415415

408408

▲ ▲ 414414

• • • •

POOL POOL

527527528528

529529

522522

406406

409409410410

411411

443443 448448

721 721

Single Accomodation

PREMIUM INSIDE

711 711

523523 524524 ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ 526526 525525

518518

407407

445445

719 719

OWNER'S SUITE BALCONY

KK

714 714

• •

LIDO LIDO BAR BAR

DECK DECK JUNIOR SUITE BALCONY

PREMIUM INSIDE

709 709

517517 520520

521521

708 708

514514

516516 513513

■

808 808

DELUXE STATEROOM BALCONY OBSERVATION OBSERVATION

LL

706 706

519519

712 • 710 • 712 • 710 •

807 807

DELUXE STATEROOM BALCONY

STANDARD INSIDE

704 704

705 705 707 707

LIDO LIDO BAR BAR

MM

703 703

510510

• • • •

806 806

508508

512512 509509

• • • •

804 804

805 805

AMBASSADOR AMBASSADOR LOUNGE LOUNGE

• •

PREMIUM OUTSIDE

803 803

702 702

724 • 724 •

PREMIUM OUTSIDE

701 701

515515

726 • 726 •

PREMIUM OUTSIDE

802 802

• • • •

801 801

506506 505505

■

511511

OBSERVATION OBSERVATION LOUNGE LOUNGE

DELUXE STATEROOM OUTSIDE

A

507507

504504

• •• •

503503

E

B

404# 404#

403403 405405

BRIDGE BRIDGE

DELUXE STATEROOM OUTSIDE

C

Cabin for guests with disabilities Elevator

F

D

Third/Fourth Pullman berth in these cabins

#

810 • 810 •

G



809 • 809 •

H

 Single Cabins  Third Pullman berth in these cabins

Double Accomodation

I*

KEY

LIDODECK DECK LIDO

BRIDGEDECK DECK BRIDGE

PROMENADEDECK DECK PROMENADE

BELVEDEREDECK DECK BELVEDERE

COLUMBUSDECK DECK COLUMBUS

MARCOPOLO POLODECK DECK MARCO

TERMS AND CONDITIONS Itinerary changes The cruise and tour programmes featured in this brochure are planned many months in advance. Occasionally changes have to be made to the itineraries due to circumstances beyond the control of Voyages to Antiquity.

Responsibility Category B - Junior Stateroom with balcony

Category H - Premium Outside Cabin

Category F - Deluxe Stateroom

The responsibility of Voyages to Antiquity and the operator of the vessel is strictly limited according to the Terms and Conditions set forth in the Passage Contract that you receive prior to embarkation. You are urged to read the Passage Contract carefully. A sample is available to be mailed on request or can be viewed and printed from the Voyages to Antiquity website at any time. Transportation on board the ship is provided solely by the ship operator and pursuant to the Passage Contract. Voyages to Antiquity reserves the right to accept or decline any person as a guest for any reason. Voyages to Antiquity shall not be responsible for any act, event or omission during the time passengers are not aboard the Voyages to Antiquity vessel. Voyages to Antiquity acts only as an agent for the supplier of off-ship services such as airlines and other off-ship transportation carriers, meals, shore excursions, accommodations, air ambulance and shoreside physicians. Guests agree not to hold Voyages to Antiquity, its owners, agents or representatives liable for any loss, injury, expense or damage which results directly or indirectly from any act or omission, whether negligent or otherwise, of any third party person or firm which is to, or does, provide goods or services in connection with the trip or any available option. Without limiting the foregoing, Voyages to Antiquity shall have no liability to passengers for the quality of services at, and the condition, cleanliness or safety of a hotel, housing facility, or conveyance, or for any transportation delay, including but not limited to liability for inconvenience, shortened holiday time, additional expenses,

or any other kind of damage. Voyages to Antiquity expressly disclaims all responsibility of any nature whatsoever for any loss, damage or injury to property or person resulting from air, rail, motorcoach or any other form of transportation other than that actually provided by the Voyages to Antiquity vessel.

Services provided by independent contractors

All shoreside tours and services described in this brochure or on the website are provided by independent contractors.

Voyages to Antiquity acts solely as ticketing agent for all shoreside activities and has no legal obligation or liability of any kind to guests for acts or omissions in connection with or arising out of arrangements with independent contractors, including but not limited to airline carriers, ground/tour operators, and hotels since they are neither agents for nor employees of Voyages to Antiquity.

Guests with special needs

The tour programmes featured in this brochure include extensive sightseeing and to fully participate each guest must be reasonably fit and have no walking difficulties. Whenever possible Voyages to Antiquity will try to accommodate guests with special needs as long as the mobility issues are not an impediment to others on the guided tours. For further details, refer to the Essential Travel Information leaflet or to that section of the Voyages to Antiquity website.

Errors & omissions

While Voyages to Antiquity makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of information in this booklet, its promotions and as displayed on the website, Voyages to Antiquity reserves the right not to honour any published fares that it determines were erroneous due to printing, electronic or clerical error.

Voyages to Antiquity is not responsible or liable for any typographical errors, omissions or misprints.

23

THE 2018/19 CRUISE COLLECTION

Cruise guides are available to download from our website voyagestoantiquity.com approximately 90 days prior to departure