Renaissance Italy & Historic Islands Cruise Book

CRUISE GUIDE

30 May − 11 June 2018 Rome to Seville, 13 days

RENAIS SANCE ITALY & HISTORIC ISLANDS A memorable crossing of the Middle Sea from east to west, Rome to Seville, with visits to Florence, Pisa, Lucca, Elba, Corsica, the Balearic Islands, Malaga and Cadiz.

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.

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This richly varied cruise, westbound from Rome to Seville, is packed with Mediterranean highlights.

Marvel at the artistic and architectural treasures of Florence, Pisa and Lucca, including the sublime Florence Duomo and the iconic Leaning Tower, then set sail for enchanting Elba, Napoleon Bonaparte’s place of exile for 300 days in 1814-15. The ‘Little Corporal’ who built an empire was born on Corsica, and two stops are made on that wildly beautiful island – in the dramatic fortified city of Bonifacio and Napoleon’s birthplace, Ajaccio.

Following an appreciation of the stunningly scenic Balearic Islands of Menorca and Majorca (the latter with a glorious Gothic cathedral to explore in Palma), Aegean Odyssey reaches the shores of mainland Spain, taking in Picasso’s Malaga, the splendid historic port of Cadiz, and a cruise along the Guadalquivir River to Seville.

Lucca

YOUR ITINERARY

AEG180530

2018

PORT

30 MAY

ROME Italy Embark Aegean Odyssey in Civitavecchia

31 MAY

FLORENCE (from Livorno) Italy

1 JUN

PISA/LUCCA (from Livorno) Italy

2 JUN

ELBA Italy

8.00am

1.00pm

3 JUN

BONIFACIO Corsica

1.00pm

10.00pm

4 JUN

AJACCIO Corsica

7.00am

1.00pm

5 JUN

MAHON Menorca

8.00am

8.00pm

6 JUN

PALMA Majorca

8.00am

6.00pm

7 JUN

At Sea

8 JUN

MALAGA Spain

8.00am

8.00pm

9 JUN

CADIZ Spain

1.00pm

10 JUN

CADIZ Spain SEVILLE Spain

11 JUN

SEVILLE Spain Disembark Aegean Odyssey

O Overnight stay in port

ARRIVE

DEPART

• The greatest artistic and architectural wonders of the Renaissance in Florence and Lucca

6.00pm 8.00am

VOYAGE HIGHLIGHTS

O

• The iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa and ‘Miracle Square’ • Napoleon Bonaparte’s birthplace, Ajaccio; and place of exile, Elba

6.00pm

• Palma’s extraordinary Gothic Cathedral • Sherry tasting in its spiritual home, Jerez

O 8.00am

7.00pm

O

7.00am

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 11-12.

Bonifacio Old Town

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YOUR CRUISE DAY BY DAY

30 MAY 2018 ROME, ITALY

Embark Aegean Odyssey in Civitavecchia, the port of Rome, in the afternoon. The ship sets sail in the evening.

31 MAY LIVORNO, ITALY

An enchanting city built on a steep-sided bay of the Ligurian Sea, Livorno has plenty to interest travellers already familiar with Florence and Pisa – not least its fine Renaissance-era fortifications.

INCLUDED EXCURSION Choice A

INCLUDED EXCURSION Choice B

THE CHURCHES OF FLORENCE (Full day) Commonly called the Duomo in honour of Brunelleschi’s magnificent dome, Santa Maria del Fiore is the fourth largest church in the world. Along with Giotto’s bell tower and Baptistery adorned with stunning gold mosaics, the Cathedral is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In Santa Croce, Italy’s largest Franciscan church, are entombed eminent Italians such as Michelangelo, Galileo, Rossini and Machiavelli. Lunch is at your own arrangement.

RENAISSANCE FLORENCE (Full day) A guided tour of Florence, powerhouse of the Italian Renaissance and one of the world’s great centres of historic art and architecture, includes visits to the medieval Ponte Vecchio, the Galleria dell’Accademia (home to Michelangelo’s sublime David) and the Uffizi (showcasing numerous iconic artworks, including Botticelli’s Birth of Venus and La Primavera, and Ucello’s Battle of San Romano), where queues are avoided thanks to our group reservation.

Lunch is not included today, giving you the flexibility to spend more time in the galleries if you wish.

Pisa

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Please note – due to limited group reservation space, some guests may have the days of their Florence and Pisa/Lucca excursions reversed.

1 JUNE LIVORNO, ITALY If you decide to stay in Livorno, be sure to sample some of the city’s famously good seafood at the characterful waterfront.

INCLUDED EXCURSION

PISA AND LUCCA (Full day) Our full day excursion begins in Lucca with a stroll around the great sites of this beautiful historic city, taking in the splendid façade and interior of the Cathedral of San Martino, the remains of a colossal Roman amphitheatre and the impressive Basilica Lucca of San Frediano. Then it is on to Pisa, and the Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles), so called because it was virtually the only part of the city to escape bomb damage during the war. Here is a genuinely breathtaking collection of religious buildings acclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Best known, of course, is the 12th century ‘Leaning Tower’ – a glorious, multi-tier bell tower listing at a seemingly impossible angle – but the white marble Baptistery and grand Cathedral, with tranquil cloisters and great works of art and sculpture, enthral in equal measure. Lunch is at your own arrangement.

Please note – due to limited group reservation space, some guests may have the days of their Florence and Pisa/Lucca excursions reversed.

2 JUNE ELBA, ITALY Spend a day on this enchanting island of picturesque bays, friendly villages and dramatic mountains, and you’ll wonder why Napoleon ever decided to leave his minifiefdom.

KEY TO SYMBOLS Extensive walking Uneven surfaces

INCLUDED EXCURSION Choice A Archaeological ground

NAPOLEON’S ISLAND OF EXILE (Half day, AM) Our tour of Elba begins with a scenic drive from Portoferraio, the main port and town (and mythological site of Argos, from which the Argonauts sailed), to glittering Golfo Stella and the lovely fishing harbour of Porto Azzuro, dominated by a medieval fortress. We continue to Punta delle Grotte, where the ruins of a Roman villa may be found, for magnificent views of Portoferraio.

When the defeated Napoleon was exiled to Elba in 1814, he built an elaborate villa above the city, a large part of which remains unchanged. Our walking tour of Portoferraio also includes the first-floor apartment he used upon arriving on the island, the star-shaped Fort Stella, a theatre built by the Emperor and the historic Piazza Cavour.

Significant steps Uphill sections Features a boat ride Cable car Bustling streets Winding roads Lunch included Insect repellent required

Aegean Odyssey continues her journey later this evening.

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Bonifacio

INCLUDED EXCURSION Choice B

INCLUDED EXCURSION Choice A

CAPOLIVERI AND WINE TASTING (Half day, AM)

AN INTRODUCTION TO AJACCIO (Half day, AM)

Alternatively, visit Capoliveri for some wine-tasting at the old country wine-farm ‘La Chiusa’, where the vineyard presents sensational ocean views and a tour of the estate’s cellar reveals how the wine is handled and produced.

Discover Napoleon’s legacy on this tour of the city where he spent his early years. We walk the main shopping street (Cours Napoleon), turning to ‘La Grotte de Napoleon’ where the young Bonaparte supposedly learned of his acceptance into a French military academy. After enjoying spectacular views of the so-called ‘Bloody Islands’ from Pointe de la Parata, we stroll through Ajaccio’s old quarter to the cathedral where Napoleon was baptised and the house where he was born, which is now a museum.

3 JUNE BONIFACIO, CORSICA Set high on a clifftop promontory, Bonifacio could scarcely present a more dramatic first impression. The old part of the town, with its narrow streets, characterful shops and fine restaurants, is a pleasure to explore independently, so no set excursions are planned for this afternoon. Seek out in your wanderings the attractive Rue du Palais-de-Garde, the Escalier du Roi d’Aragon (the historical ‘King of Aragon’s Steps’), the fortified gateway Porte de Genes and the lovely churches of Saint-Dominique and Sainte Marie Majeure. Aegean Odyssey sets sail late this evening.

4 JUNE AJACCIO, CORSICA Birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte, the self-styled ‘Imperial City’ of Ajaccio is a grand, confident port city on Corsica’s ruggedly beautiful west coast packed with cultural attractions.

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INCLUDED EXCURSION Choice B

COASTAL DRIVE AND INLAND VILLAGE (Half day, AM) Our alternative tour takes in some of the coastal towers built by the Genoese Republic to protect the island’s inhabitants from Ottoman pirate raids, the seemingly endless beaches from Plage d’Agosta to Ruppione, the Forêt de Chiavari, the eerie remains of a Second Empire hard labour penitentiary, picturesque Coti Chiavari, the La Castagna peninsula and the soft sands of Plage de Portigliolo.

5 JUNE MAHON, MENORCA Elegant and understated, the Menorcan capital is set above the Mediterranean’s biggest natural port. Georgian houses reveal a legacy of 18th century British occupation, and alfresco cafes invite instant adjustment to the island’s laidback pace of life.

INCLUDED EXCURSION Choice A

HISTORIC CIUTADELLA (Half day, AM) The city known as ‘Vella i Bella’ (Old and Beautiful) has known numerous occupiers throughout history. Its delightful old quarter, converging on Placa des Born (where this tour begins), was originally fortified in the Moorish tradition. Here, a large obelisk commemorates the ‘Year of Misfortune’, when thousands were slaughtered or enslaved by Turkish invaders, and 17th century Neo-classical palaces belong to ancient noble families. The nearby Catalan-Gothic Cathedral and Baroque Roser Church demonstrate the evolution of religious architecture, and there is time too to wander the beautiful Ses Voltes arcade, noted for its porticos and handicraft shops.

INCLUDED EXCURSION Choice B

ISLAND HIGHLIGHTS (Half day, AM) Menorca’s highest peak, Monte Toro, has been a place of pilgrimage since the 13th century, when a bull is said to have led a group of monks to a cave containing an image of the Virgin Mary. Near to the summit is a 17th century church known as the Sanctuary of the Virgen del Toro, maintained by an order of nuns and open to visitors. The views are truly breathtaking. Continuing to the coast, Fornells is a charming fishing village at the mouth of an impressive natural harbour, with castle ruins, a marina full of traditional Menorcan fishing boats (llauts) and a reputation for excellent seafood. Our final stop is the extraordinary model fishing village of Binibeca, designed to recreate an authentic island settlement of whitewashed houses and narrow, cobbled streets.

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

* UK version

Monte Toro

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Soller Railway

6 JUNE PALMA, MAJORCA The resort city of Palma, a symphony of honey-coloured stone, is both beautiful to behold and packed with historical treasures, not least the monumental Gothic Cathedral.

INCLUDED EXCURSION Choice A

PALMA CITY HIGHLIGHTS (Half day, AM) The only circular castle to be built in Spain, 14th century Bellver is a masterpiece of aesthetic design and strategic defence, presenting vistas of the Bay of Palma that earned its name (meaning ‘beautiful view’). Our tour includes the ground floor Museu d’Historia de la Ciutat, showcasing Palma’s history, and graffiti in the stonework of the upper levels carved by Napoleonic ‘enemies of the state’.

We then proceed to the old quarter of the city and the breathtaking Catalan-Gothic Cathedral, more commonly known as ‘La Seu’, inspired by NotreDame de Paris but exceeding its French cousin in scale. The Cathedral boasts one of the world’s largest stain glass windows, 12m across and containing over 1,200 pieces of glass, and flourishes added by Antoni Gaudi during his involvement in its restoration.

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INCLUDED EXCURSION Choice B

SCENIC PALMA AND VALLDEMOSSA (Half day, AM) A guided driving tour is the perfect way to appreciate the major attractions of Mallorca, from the magnificent Cathedral and Royal Palace in Palma to the idyllic mountain town of Valldemossa and the monastery where Frederic Chopin and George Sand sojourned together, inspiring her novel A Winter in Majorca. After a brief recital of Chopin music, we return to Palma and the fairytale fortress of Bellver.

OPTIONAL EXCURSION

HISTORIC SOLLER RAILWAY $75 per person (Half day) A narrow-gauge railway has connected Palma with the charming town of Soller for more than a century.

After a panoramic drive through the capital, we board vintage carriages with authentic wood and brass fittings at the station of Son Reus. The journey through the Mallorcan countryside, by way of pretty villages, spectacular viaducts, fruit groves and an extraordinary mountain tunnel, takes around 50 minutes.

Please note – this optional excursion must be combined with the Palma City Highlights included excursion.

7 JUNE AT SEA A relaxing day at sea to enjoy the many excellent amenities of Aegean Odyssey.

8 JUNE MALAGA, SPAIN Too often dismissed as a gateway to more celebrated attractions of Andalusia, Malaga is a dynamic and exciting city with close links to Picasso and a lovely port and old town to discover.

INCLUDED EXCURSION Choice A

PANORAMIC MALAGA AND PICASSO MUSEUM (Half day, AM)

OPTIONAL EXCURSION

THE ALHAMBRA PALACE $89 per person* (Full day) We are also pleased to offer an optional full day tour to Granada and the 13th century Alhambra Palace, last capital of the Moors in Spain. When it fell to Christian armies in the 15th century, they were so affected by the beauty of the complex that they could not bear to destroy it. We visit both the Royal Palace and the Generalife (summer palace), with its splendid formal gardens fit for a sultan.

Malaga

*Includes credit for unused included excursion

A sightseeing drive takes us through the old town to the majestic 10th century Gibralfaro Castle and the engaging Picasso Museum, dedicated to the 20th century’s most influential artist, who was born in Malaga, with 285 Picasso-related exhibits on display.

Beneath the museum may be found archaeological remains dating back to Phoenician times.

INCLUDED EXCURSION Choice B

PANORAMIC MALAGA (Half day, AM) Alternatively, enjoy a more leisurely included panoramic tour of this fine city.

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Cadiz

9 JUNE CADIZ, SPAIN

10 JUNE SEVILLE, SPAIN

Considered to be Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited settlement, Cadiz was founded by the Phoenicians in the 12th century BC. These days, it is a fascinating, atmospheric city that appears to shimmer silver when bathed in pure white sunlight.

Setting sail from Cadiz this morning, Aegean Odyssey makes her way to the Guadalquivir river, cruising upstream through the Andalusian countryside to berth in the heart of the beautiful, romantic Seville. You may head ashore for an evening of independent exploration, but don’t miss the live Flamenco performance on board the ship.

INCLUDED EXCURSION Choice A

CADIZ CITY HIGHLIGHTS (Half day, PM)

11 JUNE SEVILLE, SPAIN Disembark Aegean Odyssey after breakfast.

Our afternoon tour of Cadiz includes the old quarter, a tobacco factory, Santo Domingo Church, the Royal Prison and Cathedral, followed by the ancient Phoenician port of La Caleta and the Santa Catalina Fortress. The tour concludes at the Plaza de Espana, where you may wish to spend the evening, as Aegean Odyssey overnights in port.

INCLUDED EXCURSION Choice B

JEREZ AND SHERRY TASTING (Half day, PM) Alternatively, join us on a drive to Jerez de la Frontera, famous for the production of its sherry, a derivation of its name. Enjoy a tour of the city and a visit to the famous Bodega Gonzalez Byass for sherry tasting.

Jerez

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PRE-CRUISE ROME STAY

Voyages to Antiquity offers a variety of cruise packages, some of which include land touring elements before and/or after the cruise itself.

28 MAY ROME, ITALY Upon arrival in Rome, we transfer you to your centrally located hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure.

OPTIONAL EXCURSION

EXPLORING THE VATICAN $79 per person (Half day, PM)) In terms of artistic treasures, the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel (with Michelangelo’s extraordinary ceiling frescoes) and the magnificent St Peter’s Basilica are quite simply in a class of their own.

Strict religious dress required.

29 MAY ROME, ITALY Discover the amazing history of the ‘Eternal City’.

INCLUDED EXCURSION Choice A

THE COLOSSEUM & ST PETER IN CHAINS (Half day, AM) We visit the 65,000-seat Flavian Amphitheatre (Colosseum), the greatest stadium of the Roman world, still evoking the terror and majesty of the gladiatorial games, along with the Arch of Constantine, Nero’s residence, the Baths of Titus and the Basilica of St Peter in Chains. Strict religious dress is required.

INCLUDED EXCURSION Choice B

OSTIA ANTICA (Half day, AM)

Villa d’Este

Buried for centuries, Ostia Antica was the main port of Ancient Rome. Excavations reveal well-preserved apartments, bakeries, baths, bars and temples, so with beautiful mosaics.

30 MAY ROME, ITALY Transfer directly to Aegean Odyssey in Civitavecchia, or enjoy an optional excursion to Tivoli first.

OPTIONAL EXCURSION

TIVOLI & VILLA D’ESTE $75 per person (Half day, AM) The grounds of the Villa d’Este, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, embody Renaissance culture at its most refined.Your visit starts with a drive to Tivoli, the resort of imperial Rome, but our destination is the 16th century Villa d’Este, famed for its spectacular gardens, which feature grottoes, terraces and fountains.

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POST-CRUISE SEVILLE STAY AND OPTIONAL MADRID EXTENSION

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

INCLUDED EXCURSION Choice A

SEVILLE CITY SIGHTSEEING (Half day, AM) Seville’s 15th century Cathedral, Europe’s third largest, stands on the site of a great 12th century mosque, of which the minaret remains. Our tour takes in views of this majestic Gothic place of worship, a visit to the Alcazar Royal Palace, likened to a vision of heaven on earth, and a stroll through the narrow streets of the old Jewish Quarter of Santa Cruz.

INCLUDED EXCURSION Choice B

INCLUDED EXCURSION

CORDOBA (Full day) Reminders of Cordoba’s heyday as a Roman and Arab capital (and, in the 10th century, the world’s most populous city) surround visitors, in the Roman Bridge, the Arab-style labyrinth of streets, squares and courtyards, and most spectacularly the Mezquita Cathedral-Mosque, considered one of the wonders of the medieval world, with more than 1,000 marble and onyx columns. Other highlights include the old Jewish Quarter, the ancient market and the stunning ‘Street of Flowers’.

13 JUNE SEVILLE, SPAIN Transfer to Seville Airport for your flight home.

PANORAMIC DRIVE & PLAZA DE ESPANA (Half day, AM) A more leisurely tour takes in other highlights of this intoxicating city on a panoramic drive.

12 JUNE SEVILLE, SPAIN Seville is not just a gloriously attractive and interesting city in its own right, it is also gateway to the magical UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cordoba, home to the iconic Mezquita Cathedral-Mosque.

Alcazar Queen’s Bath, Seville 12 12

OPTIONAL 2-NIGHT MADRID HOTEL STAY (13-15 June 2018) Add a stay in the Spanish capital, including a high speed, first class train journey, two nights in a centrally located hotel and a sightseeing tour of the historic old town, Plaza Mayor and the Royal Palace. 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.

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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 DAVID PRICE-WILLIAMS University of London

Dr David Price-Williams

Dr Pieter van der Merwe

Peter Hore

David Price-Williams has a first degree from the University of Wales in Ancient Near Eastern languages (Aramaic, Hebrew, Arabic etc) with a subsidiary in Attic and Koine Greek. His post-graduate work and his doctorate, from the University of London, is in Near Eastern archaeology. His first overseas archaeological field work in the Eastern Mediterranean was in 1969 as a field surveyor at the classical site of Knidos in Turkey. He then worked for the Smithsonian Institute as an archaeological field surveyor on excavations in the Near East before directing his own field research in the same area through the early 1970s.

David has spent many years working in the countries of Africa south of the Zambesi. From 1976 to 1989 he was the director of a multidisciplinary team of up to twenty scientists from several universities researching the effects of climatic change on human evolution in Africa.

He was based in Swaziland, during which time he also oversaw the building of the Swaziland National Museum and where he eventually became Director of Antiquities.

David has been associated with the eastern Mediterranean – Greece, Turkey, Jordan and the Near East – for more than 40 years. He has just

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retired after 37 years lecturing on the Archaeology of Western Asia at the Institute of Archaeology for the University of London. He is the author and co-author of numerous academic papers on the area, and a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society. He speaks Turkish and reads Classical Greek.

DR PIETER VAN DER MERWE MBE Curator Emeritus, National Maritime Museum Dr Pieter van der Merwe was on the full-time staff of the National Maritime Museum (Royal Museums, Greenwich) from 1974 to 2015 and is still its General Editor (part-time) and one of its Curators Emeritus. He has overseen the Museum’s printed output for more than 20 years, editing and contributing to many of its publications during that period, and he has written about and lectured on various aspects of maritime history, mainly from 1500 to 1914, including medieval shipbuilding, marine painting, naval subjects, the history of exploration and that of Greenwich itself.

He is a Vice-President of the Society for Nautical Research, Vice-Chairman of the Turner Society and a committee member and former Chairman of the Society for Theatre Research. He was appointed MBE in 2012 for services to heritage and the community in Greenwich.

PETER HORE Peter Hore served worldwide during a full career in the Royal Navy, spent nine years in the film and TV industry, and is now a full time writer, editor and journalist. A freelance obituarist at the Daily Telegraph since 2002, he has written over 1,000 obituaries on the men and women of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines, along with members of the French Resistance, yachtsmen, shipping magnates and many others. Peter is a busy public speaker, and writes reviews and articles for several newspapers and journals including the influential Warships International Fleet Review. Peter has written or edited more than a dozen books on naval history, biography and strategy, along with the annual Trafalgar Chronicle – the prime source of information and new research on the Georgian navy – also sometimes known as ‘Nelson’s Navy’.

Alhambra Palace

LECTURES THE MIDDLE SEA: A HISTORY OF THE MEDITERRANEAN (David Price-Williams)

THE SPANISH EMPEROR: HADRIAN (David Price-Williams)

This lecture explores how the geological history of the Mediterranean has shaped the great cultures that flourished upon its shores.

Though his exact place of birth is lost to history, Emperor Hadrian’s family had for generations been Hispanic – some think this inspired a spirit of internationalism which led him to visit the whole of the Roman Empire during his reign. We follow his progress during the 2nd century AD.

THE PURPLE PEOPLE (David Price-Williams) Who were the Phoenicians? David PriceWilliams dispels some of the mystery surrounding these great merchant seafarers from the Near East, inventors of the alphabet and colonisers of the Mediterranean.

AL ANDALUS: THE MOORISH INVASION OF SPAIN (David Price-Williams) The fascinating story of how the Umayyad Caliphate grew from humble beginnings in Arabia to become a world power with the invasion of Hispania in 711 – an international prominence maintained until the fall of Granada in 1492.

Seville

PAINTED SHIPS, PAINTED OCEANS (Pieter van der Merwe) Much of what we know of historic ships comes from their representation in art. This talk will use marine paintings and other images to reveal the development of various sailing vessels from the 15th to the 19th century, with something to say also on the evolution of marine art.

NELSON AND THE FRENCH WAR IN THE MEDITERRANEAN (Pieter van der Merwe) After a brief introduction covering Nelson’s early career, we focus on his part in the French Revolutionary War (to 1798). This included the siege of Toulon, the taking of Corsica (where he lost the sight of one eye) and operations on the Italian seaboard including the occupation of Elba. The British withdrew from the Mediterranean in 1796 but, in 1798, Nelson – by this time a celebrated public figure – returned

there with a strong squadron to investigate Napoleon’s preparations at Toulon. The result was a long chase ending with the destruction of the French fleet at the Battle of the Nile – Nelson’s most spectacular victory.

THE KIDNAP OF BETSEY FREMANTLE (Peter Hore) The route of this cruise as seen through the eyes of a teenage girl rescued from Leghorn (Livorno) during the French advance in 1796, kept in the British fleet until she agreed to marry one of the captains, Thomas Fremantle, a friend and advisor to Nelson.

Florence

THE BATTLE OF TRAFALGAR (Peter Hore) The Trafalgar campaign of 1803-1805 was fought in the waters we are cruising, culminating in an epic sea battle which set the course of British and European history for the next 100 years.

Cordoba

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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

Elizabeth Bowen A Time in Rome £9.99, paperback, ISBN 9780099284956

Andrew Roberts Napoleon the Great £14.99, paperback, ISBN 9780141032016

Steven Nightingale Granada £12.99, paperback, ISBN 9781857886313

Brigitte Hintzen-Bohlen Rome: Art & Architecture £9.99, paperback, ISBN 9783848003204

Marc Millon Wine: A Global History £10.99, hardback, ISBN 9781780231112

Gerald Brenan South from Granada £9.99, paperback, ISBN 9780141189321

Christopher Hibbert The Borgias £9.99, paperback, ISBN 9781849019941

Dorothy Carrington Granite Island £9.99, paperback, ISBN 9780141442273

Robert Irwin The Alhambra £8.99, paperback, ISBN 9781861974877

Mary Beard SPQR: A History of Ancient Rome £9.99, paperback, ISBN 9781846683817

Christopher Hibbert The Rise and Fall of the House of Medici £12.99, paperback, ISBN 9780140050905

Peter Kerr Snowball Oranges £9.99, paperback, ISBN 9781786850423

Marcus Sidonius Falx with Jerry Toner How to Manage Your Slaves £8.99, paperback, ISBN 9781781252529

Goethe Italian Journey £12.99, paperback, ISBN 9780140442335

Colin McEvedy New Penguin Atlas of Ancient History £9.99, paperback, ISBN 9780140513486 John Julius Norwich The Middle Sea: A History of the Mediterranean £14.99, paperback, ISBN 9781844133086

Robert Hughes Rome £16.99, paperback, ISBN 9780753823057

16

Ted Jones Florence & Tuscany: A Literary Guide for Travellers £16.99, hardback, ISBN 9781848858367

John Berger The Success and Failure of Picasso £9.99, paperback, ISBN 9780241201244 (new ed. 8 April 2018) Talia Vaiocchi Sherry £20.00, hardback, ISBN 9781909342989

Karen Armstrong Islam: A Short History £9.99, paperback, ISBN 9781842125830 Brigitte Hintzen-Bohlen Andalusia: Art and Architecture £9.99, paperback, ISBN 9783848003266 John Gill Andalucía: A Cultural History £12.00, paperback, ISBN 9781904955443

Norman Lewis The Tomb in Seville £12.99, paperback, ISBN 9781780600086

Robert Harris Imperium £8.99, paperback, ISBN 9780099527664

Blue Guides (Concise) Rome £9.95, paperback, ISBN 9781905131303

David Price Williams Looking for Aphrodite £14.99, paperback, ISBN 9781909276512

Irving Stone The Agony and the Ecstasy £8.99, paperback, ISBN 9780099416272

Marco Polo Florence Pocket Guide with Map £6.99, paperback, ISBN 9783829706612

Emylia Hall The Thousand Lights Hotel £8.99, paperback, ISBN 9781472212023

Eyewitness Guides Corsica £12.99, paperback, ISBN 9780241208472

Peter Hore Nelson’s Band of Brothers £25.00, hardback, ISBN 9781848327795 Peter Hore HMS Pickle £14.99, paperback, ISBN 9780750964357 Paul Sterry Birds of the Mediterranean £19.99, paperback, ISBN 9780713663495

FICTION Ed. Helen Constantine Rome Tales £9.99, paperback, ISBN 9780199572465

Robert Wilson The Blind Man of Seville £12.99, paperback, ISBN 9780007322145

MAPS & GUIDES Freytag & Berndt Mediterranean Cruise Map £8.99 ISBN 9783707912906 Eyewitness Guides Cruise Guide to Europe £15.99, paperback, ISBN 9781409370222

Eyewitness Guides Mallorca, Menorca & Ibiza £12.99, paperback, ISBN 9780241207666 Eyewitness Guides Seville & Andalusia £13.99, paperback, ISBN 9780241306017 (new ed. 1 February 2018)

Granada

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

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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 onboard library and a host of other enrichment elements from reading lists prepared by Blackwell’s of Oxford and onboard 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

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 detailed 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

■

• • • •• • • • ■

425425

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

732 732

731 731

734 734

733 733

736 736

LIBRARY LIBRARY

559559

552552

561561

554554

SHOP SHOP

563563

455455 459459 463463

MARCO POLO MARCO POLO RESTAURANT RESTAURANT

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

DOU DOUBLE

C CAT

460460

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

• • • •

729 729

• • • •

716 716

• • • •

• •

416416

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

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816 816

815 815

814 814

412412

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

• •

PREMIUM OUTSIDE

• •

• •

II*

• •

STANDARD OUTSIDE

813 813

• •

JJ

812 812

421421

435435 534534

533533

413413 415415

408408

▲ ▲ 414414

446446

723 723

811 811

530530

531531 532532

• • • •

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

514514

517517 520520

521521

708 708

510510

516516 513513

■

808 808

DELUXE STATEROOM BALCONY OBSERVATION OBSERVATION

LL

706 706

712 • 710 • 712 • 710 •

807 807

DELUXE STATEROOM BALCONY

STANDARD INSIDE

704 704

705 705 707 707

LIDO LIDO BAR BAR

MM

703 703

508508

512512 509509

• • • •

806 806

519519

• •

804 804

805 805

AMBASSADOR AMBASSADOR LOUNGE LOUNGE

724 • 724 •

PREMIUM OUTSIDE

803 803

702 702

726 • 726 •

PREMIUM OUTSIDE

701 701

515515

• • • •

PREMIUM OUTSIDE

802 802

506506 505505

■

511511

801 801

504504

• •• •

507507

OBSERVATION OBSERVATION LOUNGE LOUNGE

DELUXE STATEROOM OUTSIDE

A

404# 404#

403403 405405 503503

E

B

Cabin for guests with disabilities

BRIDGE BRIDGE

DELUXE STATEROOM OUTSIDE

C

Third/Fourth Pullman berth in these cabins

#

Elevator

F

D



810 • 810 •

G

Single Cabins

809 • 809 •

H



 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