CRUISE GUIDE
ANCIENT GREECE, SICILY & SPAIN
Sail across the southern Mediterranean in the autumn sunshine to the fascinating island of Sicily and the sites of Moorish Spain
October 18 – 31, 2017 Athens to Seville
YOUR ITINERARY In response to recent feedback, we are now pleased to introduce our new dedicated cruise guides, produced individually for each Voyages to Antiquity cruise. In this guide, you will find useful information and expert tips about the destinations you will visit, plus a comprehensive guide to both included and optional shore excursions. There is also information on your guest speakers and an invaluable reading guide to help you discover even more. Be sure to take this guide with you and we look forward to welcoming you on board.
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AEG171018 2017
PORT
OCT 18
ATHENS Greece Embark Aegean Odyssey in Piraeus
OCT 19
SANTORINI Greek Islands
8.00am
5.00pm
OCT 20
HERAKLION Crete
6.00am
5.00pm
OCT 21
At Sea
OCT 22
VALLETTA Malta
8.00am
7.00pm
OCT 23
PALERMO Sicily
1.00pm
OCT 24
PALERMO Sicily
OCT 25
TRAPANI Sicily
OCT 26
At Sea
OCT 27
CARTAGENA Spain
2.00pm
6.00pm
OCT 28
MALAGA Spain
8.00am
Midnight
OCT 29
CADIZ Spain
2.00pm
OCT 30
CADIZ Spain Cruise the Guadalquivir River SEVILLE Spain
OCT 31
SEVILLE Spain Disembark Aegean Odyssey
O Overnight stay in port
ARRIVE
DEPART
8.00pm
O
10.00pm 7.00am
1.00pm
Cadiz
O
5.00am 4.00pm
O
SPAIN
Cartagena
SEVILLE Cadiz
Malaga
INTRODUCTION
VOYAGE HIGHLIGHTS
Start your voyage with some of the best sights of ancient Greece, including the Minoan sites of Akrotiri on Santorini and Knossos on Crete. Sail to the Grand Harbour of Valletta in Malta before arriving in Sicily, where you’ll visit Monreale Cathedral, tour the palaces of Palermo and explore the ancient temples at Segesta.
• Visit the Minoan excavations on the island of Santorini and the Palace of Knossos on Crete
Relax as Aegean Odyssey takes you to Spain for sherrytasting in Jerez and a visit to the Alhambra, followed by a tour of Cadiz and a cruise along the Guadalquivir River to spend a night on board in the heart of Seville, before disembarking the next morning.
• The ancient Greek temple at Segesta
• Sail into the Grand Harbour of Valletta on the island of Malta • Chance to visit the Palazzo Gangi in Palermo, home of the Princess Carine Vanni Mantegna
• Explore the Moorish Alhambra Palace in Granada • Sip sherry in its home – Jerez de la Frontera • Cruise up the Guadalquivir River to berth and overnight in the heart of Andalusian Seville
Palermo
ATHENS
GREECE Santorini
Trapani
SICILY Valletta Heraklion Palermo
Trapani
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YOUR CRUISE DAY BY DAY
OCTOBER 18 ATHENS, GREECE Embark Aegean Odyssey in Piraeus, the port of Athens, this afternoon, with time to settle in before an evening sail.
OCTOBER 19 SANTORINI, GREEK ISLANDS Arrive on the island of Santorini in the morning, where among the Aegean’s most spectacular sights are the amazing cliffs rising from the great half-moon caldera. Santorini was also home to the ancient Minoan settlement of Akrotiri, which was wonderfully preserved beneath ash following a volcanic eruption around 1600BC. Here you will enjoy a full day of included sightseeing as you explore an amazing city of houses, streets, squares and workshops featuring a wealth of archaeological material. Then continue to the dramatic settlement of Oia, perched high on the edge of the island’s caldera, followed by the old capital of Pyrgos and its large Venetian castle. Finally, in the scenic capital of Fira, you may have some free time before your return to the ship for an early evening sail.
OCTOBER 20 HERAKLION, CRETE, GREEK ISLANDS
Knossos
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The heyday of Minoan civilisation (2000-1600BC) was marked by the construction of great palaces, with the best known being Knossos on the island of Crete where legend has it the wife of King Minos gave birth to a half-man, half-bull Minotaur which lurked deep within the labyrinth. Excavations began in 1899 by
OCTOBER 21 AT SEA A leisurely day at sea to enjoy the Mediterranean sunshine, or take advantage of Aegean Odyssey’s on-board facilities and programme of lectures and activities.
OCTOBER 22 VALLETTA, MALTA
Santorini
the British archaeologist Sir Arthur Evans, who controversially “restored” the palace with his own eccentric ideas of Minoan interior design. After arriving in Heraklion early in the morning, there will be an included guided tour of The Palace of Knossos, followed by a visit to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, one of the greatest museums in Greece and the best in the world for Minoan art. The afternoon will then be at leisure, or you may take an optional tour of Cretan Village Life at the unique private complex of Arolithos which was constructed in the 1980s to give visitors an unrivalled experience of the island’s architecture, cuisine and tradition. Here you will visit the Rural Life and Popular Art Museum and watch artisans create woven textiles, paintings, mosaics and bread. Then enjoy some olives and cheese with raki at an included tasting, before your return to ship for a late afternoon sail.
Sailing into the impressive Grand Harbour of Valletta, the capital of Malta that was founded by the Knights of St John in 1566, is one of the most wonderful experiences a Mediterranean cruise affords. After a spectacular breakfasttime arrival here aboard Aegean Odyssey, your tour of Valletta & Mdina will begin with a walk through the city to the magnificent Palace of the Grand Master and the Baroque St John’s Co-Cathedral, which is home to Caravaggio’s masterpiece, The Beheading of St John.
Mdina
We will then transfer to Mdina, Malta’s former capital, where Apostle Paul was said to have been shipwrecked, to visit St Paul’s Cathedral, built, according to tradition, on the site where the Roman governor Publius once lived, whom St Paul converted to Christianity. The afternoon will then be at leisure in Valletta, before an evening sail.
OCTOBER 23 PALERMO, SICILY, ITALY Sicily is a celebration of the greatest achievements of Western civilisation and after a relaxing morning at sea we will arrive here at lunchtime for an included sightseeing tour to the island’s capital, Palermo, home to the Norman Royal Palace and the Palatine Chapel which perfectly illustrates the early 12th-century Norman tradition of Latin, Byzantine and Arab
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DESTINATION TIP PALERMO Piazza Marina and the surrounding area is well worth a visit during your time in Palermo. It is easily considered to be one of the most interesting areas of the city with a variety of churches, palaces and restaurants. In the daytime, you might like to visit the art gallery of Palazzo Abbatellis which was built in Catalan Gothic style and exhibits several masterpieces. In the evening, it is an ideal place to seek out a quiet trattoria and sample some local cuisine.
synthesis. This is followed by Palermo Cathedral, site of the porphyry tomb of Roger II and a silver urn containing St Rosalia’s remains. The evening will then be at leisure in Palermo, with an overnight on-board ship.
OCTOBER 24 PALERMO, SICILY, ITALY Monreale Cathedral is considered by many to be the most beautiful Norman church in Italy. The exterior may have the look of an austere fortress, but inside offers visions of the divine. The large nave with its side aisles and grey granite columns draws the eyes upward to the dazzling 12th-century gold mosaics, which cover over one and a half acres of wall space. Our included morning sightseeing tour here also features the Benedictine cloisters, a magnificent combination of Romanesque and Arab architecture. Afterwards you may enjoy an optional, exclusive extension of the tour by visiting the 15th-century, privately occupied Palazzo Gangi, where in 1882 Wagner composed the opening bars of Parsifal and in 1963 Luchino Visconti filmed the ball scene of The Leopard. A process of remodelling begun in 18th-century continues to this day under the auspices of Princess Carine Vanni Mantegna. This afternoon we will visit the fabulous results. (Note: space is limited so please register at the earliest opportunity once on board.) Alternatively, the afternoon and evening will be at leisure in Palermo, before a late evening sail.
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Palermo
OCTOBER 25 TRAPANI, SICILY, ITALY Breakfast arrival in Trapani, for a choice of afternoon sightseeing tours that celebrate the greatest achievements of Western civilisation, including the elegant Greek temple at the ancient city of Segesta, thought to have been founded in the 5th-4th century BC. This archaeological jewel is in an extraordinary state of preservation and makes a superb sight amid its surroundings of rolling hills. Alternatively, Erice is a hill-top Norman town and castle, although the walls encircling it incorporate original Phoenician fortifications. A tour here will take you along the town’s winding, cobblestone streets, with free time to enjoy some stunning views of Trapani and the Egadi Islands, before your return to Aegean Odyssey for a lunchtime sail, with the afternoon and evening at sea.
OCTOBER 28 MALAGA, SPAIN Arrive in the port of Malaga at breakfast and head inland to Granada for an included full-day tour to the 13th-century Alhambra Palace, the last capital of the Moors in Spain. When it fell to Christian armies in the 15th century, they were so impressed with the splendour of the complex they could not bear to destroy it. The tour also includes the Royal Palace and the Generalife, with its splendid gardens built for the Sultans of Granada.
OCTOBER 26 AT SEA Another leisurely day sailing the Mediterranean towards Spain, giving you time to enjoy the many facilities Aegean Odyssey has to offer.
OCTOBER 27 CARTAGENA, SPAIN A relaxing morning at sea precedes an early afternoon arrival at Cartagena, home to the ruins of the Cathedral of Santa Maria la Vieja and a recently-restored Roman amphitheatre. Built between the fifth and first centuries BC this construction was big enough to seat 6,000 people, as you will discover during your included afternoon sightseeing tour of Cartagena Highlights, alongside the Roman Forum, with its curia, baths, columned courtyard, atrium and many more remnants of the era. Then return to Aegean Odyssey for an early evening sail.
Alternatively, enjoy a leisurely included morning tour of Panoramic Malaga, beginning with a guided drive through the town to the famous Gibralfaro Castle before arriving at the Picasso Museum, which is home to over 200 works by the great master. Finally, don’t miss the archaeological remains of the city’s Phoenician origins in the basement.
Alhambra Palace
The evening will then be at leisure in port before a midnight sail.
OCTOBER 29 CADIZ, SPAIN Spend the morning at sea before an early afternoon arrival in Cadiz, historic gateway to the New World where the old town reflects the city’s rich history. After docking you will have the choice of an afternoon drive to Jerez de la Frontera, famous for the production of its namesake tipple, for a tour of the city followed by a visit to the famous Bodega Gonzalez Byass for some sherry tasting. Alternatively, take a tour of Cadiz City Highlights, including the old quarter, tobacco factory, Santo Domingo Church, old Royal Prison and Cathedral, followed by the ancient
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Phoenician port of La Caleta and the Santa Catalina Fortress. Then finish in the Plaza de Espana, from where you will be able to enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure before your return to Aegean Odyssey for an overnight in port.
OCTOBER 30 CADIZ – SEVILLE, SPAIN
Cartagena
Depart Cadiz early in the morning for the grand finale of this fascinating cruise, a sail up the Guadalquivir River from the Atlantic Ocean right into the heart of Seville, which legend has it was founded by Hercules. Arriving late in the afternoon, you will be able to enjoy an evening of leisure in the beautiful and romantic Andalusian capital, said to be the birthplace of Flamenco. Don’t miss tonight’s spectacular live Flamenco show on board.
OCTOBER 31 SEVILLE, SPAIN Disembark Aegean Odyssey after breakfast this morning, in the port of Seville. For those passengers who have opted for the precruise hotel stay in Athens, the post-cruise hotel stay in Seville, or the Madrid extension, please go online to www.voyagestoantiquity.com for more information. Full itinerary details will be sent with your Final Documents.
Cadiz
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INCLUDED SHORE EXCURSIONS SANTORINI
CARTAGENA
Santorini and Akrotiri
Cartagena Highlights
- Full Day
- Half Day
CRETE
MALAGA
Knossos Palace and Heraklion Archaeological Museum - Half Day
Granada and Alhambra Palace - Full Day Panoramic Malaga and the Picasso
VALLETTA Valletta and Mdina - Half Day PALERMO Palatine Chapel and Cathedral Tour - Half Day Monreale - Half Day TRAPANI Segesta - Half Day Erice - Half Day
Museum - Half Day CADIZ Jerez and Sherry Tasting - Half Day Cadiz City Highlights - Half Day For details of these excursions, please see itinerary on preceding pages or for more in-depth descriptions, visit us online at: www.voyagestoantiquity.com
For details of the optional excursion available on this cruise, please refer to pages 10/11. Excursions listed are half day, either morning or afternoon, depending on time in port, or full day as shown. One excursion is included in each port of call; where more than one excursion is shown, you will be able to choose. All our excursions require a basic level of fitness, although some are more strenuous than others. The symbols next to each excursion will give you an idea of specific things to be aware of. When there is a significant amount of walking involved in an excursion, the walking symbol has been indicated. Generally, this applies when at least 1.5-2 hours of the excursion is made up of continuous walking. Many archaeological sites are visited on this itinerary and so uneven terrain (which can be difficult in places) should be expected. Towns and villages visited on this itinerary often involve walks through historical areas and cobbled/ paved streets are common. Some guests may want to carefully consider before opting to participate in excursions where extensive walking is involved.
KEY TO SYMBOLS Extensive walking Cobbled streets Archaeological ground Significant steps Uphill sections Cable car Lunch included
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OPTIONAL EXCURSION HERAKLION, Crete Arolithos
Cretan Village Life - Half Day - $35 The traditional village of Arolithos isn’t quite as it first seems. In fact, it was in the spring of 1985 that the foundations of this remarkable complex were set. Two years before that, the masterminds behind this superb reconstruction strived to collect many of the items that would decorate the house interiors along with the stone and wood that would be used for the exteriors, all of which were transported from various villages in Crete. Arolithos was finally completed in 1988 and since then it has given visitors an unrivalled experience into the traditions of the island. Walking along its cobblestone streets you will be able visit the Rural Life and Popular Art Museum, then watch artisans crafting traditional woven textiles, paintings, mosaics and even bread baking. A short walk into the centre of the village is the main square, where a beautiful old church is frequently used for marriages
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and Orthodox ceremonies. There is also an authentic Greek coffee shop where you may relax and enjoy the sunshine. The Cretan diet has been heralded as the Mediterranean’s healthiest, and the ingredients you will find here are all locally-grown cheese products, aromatic plants and herbs, olive oil and vegetables. As a part of our tour we will visit a small exhibition of olive oil products where there will be a tasting of olives and virgin olive oil, cheese and rusks together with raki.
Salona Arolithos
11
YOUR GUEST SPEAKERS A quintessential part of the Voyages to Antiquity experience is our worldclass programme of celebrated guest speakers, all of whom are carefully chosen to provide high quality lectures designed to enrich your time aboard Aegean Odyssey, adding texture and depth to your journey. With topics ranging from art and history to archaeology and architecture, from wine and cuisine to theology and nature, you will find a Voyages to Antiquity talk informative and accessible. Here are the experts who will be providing an array of enlightening talks during your voyage.
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Professor Duncan MacMillan University of Edinburgh Duncan Macmillan is an art historian and art critic. He is Professor Emeritus in the University of Edinburgh where, formerly, he both taught and ran the University’s art gallery. He is also Art Critic of The Scotsman. He has written a number of books and a great many exhibition catalogues and and has won several prizes for his writing. His major work, Scottish Art 1460-1990, was, for instance, Scottish Book of the Year in 1991. It is now the standard text on the subject. His experience as gallery director and art critic has also meant that alongside his writing and teaching as an art historian, he has had an extensive engagement with contemporary art and with living artists. Interviewing the great Surrealist, Joan Miró, was, he feels, one of the most inspiring moments in his career, but he has also worked with and written about many other leading figures of our time in Britain, Europe and America, including the Abstract Expressionists Robert Motherwell and Sam Francis and their great champion, the American critic Clement Greenberg.
Trapani
The Very Reverend Victor Stock Victor Stock is a retired Anglican priest, who was the Dean of Guildford in the Church of England. Apart from his being an Associate of King’s College, he is also a member of the Order of Australia (OAM), Doctor of the University of Surrey, and Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts (FRSA). Victor was educated at Christopher Wren School, West London and King’s College London. Ordained in 1970, he was a curate in Pinner and then Chaplain of the University of London’s Church of Christ the King, Gordon Square. He was Rector of St Mary-le-Bow in the City of London from 1986 where he hosted 15 years of dialogues with
Did you know that: well known people such as Judi Dench, Roy Strong and Jeremy Paxman.Victor is a regular broadcaster, and retirement has meant Victor has more time to teach and preach and is able to live in London which he describes as the greatest city in the world. He also hugely enjoys being a Governor in both state and private Schools and sitting on the Fabric Committee of Salisbury Cathedral as well as being a Priest Vicar at Westminster Abbey. Victor’s interests include travel, politics and gardening. He is a fascinating and highly entertaining raconteur and his reflections embrace social, political and humanitarian issues of global importance, as well as frequently hilarious anecdotes. His diary from 20 years has turned into the entertaining book ‘Taking Stock: Confessions of a City Priest’.
One of the products that the Romans made in Malaga which was exported across their empire was garum or fish paste. Many pits in which garum was made, can still be seen across the city. Cadiz was frequently attacked by English pirates. In 1587, Francis Drake attacked Cadiz and captured or destroyed so many ships that the Spanish Armada was delayed for a year.
Valletta
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READING GUIDE There’s nothing like a good book to accompany you on your travels. Our associates at Blackwell’s – the famous Oxford bookseller – have put together a selection of books that we feel would provide the perfect accompaniment for this magnificent voyage. For a description of each book, please go online to www.voyagestoantiquity.com, or for a more comprehensive description, please visit Blackwell’s website www.blackwell.co.uk and enter the ISBN number shown. N O N -F I C T I O N
Colin McEvedy New Penguin Atlas of Ancient History
Edith Hall Introducing The Ancient Greeks
ISBN: 9780141977164, Paperback
ISBN: 9780099583646, Paperback
David S H Abulafia The Great Sea
Dr Matthew Nicholls 30-Second Ancient Greece
ISBN: 9781904955771, Paperback
Simon Price and Peter Thonemann The Birth of Classical Europe: A History from Troy to Augustine ISBN: 9780140274851, Paperback
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ISBN: 9781782403883, Paperback
James H McGregor Athens ISBN: 9780674047723, Hardback
Sofka Zinovieff Eurydice Street
Peter Robb Midnight in Sicily
ISBN: 9781862077508, Paperback
ISBN: 9780099595809, Hardback
James Davidson Courtesans and Fishcakes
Daphne Phelps A House in Sicily
ISBN: 9780006863434, Paperback
ISBN: 9780099595809, Paperback
Thucydides The Peloponnesian War
Talia Baiocchi Sherry
ISBN: 9780192821911, Paperback
ISBN: 9781909342989, Paperback
Cathy Gere Knossos
ISBN: 9780226289540, Paperback
John Julius Norwich Sicily: A Short History, from the Greeks to Cosa Nostra ISBN: 9781848548954, Hardback
Horatio Clare Sicily Through Writers Eyes ISBN: 9780907871941, Hardback
Leonie V. Hicks A Short History of the Normans ISBN: 9781780762128, Paperback
David Gilmour The Last Leopard ISBN: 9780955010514, Hardback
Steven Nightingale Granada ISBN: 9781857886313, Paperback
Gerald Brennan South from Granada ISBN: 9780141189321, Paperback
Robert Irwin The Alhambra ISBN: 9781861974877, Paperback
Karen Armstrong Islam: A Short History ISBN: 9781842125830, Paperback
John Gill Andalucia: A Cultural History ISBN: 9781904955443, Paperback
FICTION
Jose Carlos Somoza The Athenian Murders
Title
Publisher
ISBN Number
ISBN: 9780349116181, Paperback
Mediterranean Cruise Map
Freytag and Berndt
9783707912906
Leo Kanaris Codename Xenophon
Cruise Guide to Europe
Eyewitness Travel Guide
9781409370222
Crete
Marco Polo Pocket Guide with Map
9783829706827
Malta
Marco Polo Pocket Guide
9783829706711
Sicily
Blue Guide
9781905131549
Sicily
Eyewitness Travel Guide
9781409370215
Seville & Andalusia
Eyewitness Travel Guide
9780241189245
ISBN: 9781846973130, Paperback
Giuseppe di Lampedusa Childhood Memories and other Stories ISBN: 9781847493989, Paperback Seville
Norman Lewis The Tomb in Seville
Giuseppe di Lampedusa The Leopard ISBN: 9781847493989, Paperback
ISBN: 9781780600086, Paperback
Giuseppe di Piazza The Four Corners of Palermo
Paul Sterry
ISBN: 9781590516652, Paperback
ISBN: 9780713663495, Paperback
Leonardo Sciasia The Wine Dark Sea
Lawson Wood
ISBN: 9781847089281, Paperback
Birds of the Mediterranean
Sea Fishes of the Mediterranean Including Marine Invertebrates ISBN: 9781472921789, Paperback
MAPS, GUIDES & REFERENCE
Arturo Perez-Reverte The Seville Communion ISBN: 9780099453963, Paperback
Segesta
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AEGEAN ODYSSEY
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Carrying around 350 passengers, the size of our ship allows access to ports other vessels cannot reach, meaning we can offer a greater breadth of itinerary and range of destinations. We sail up the Guadalquivir River into the heart of Seville as well as the Gironde River in France to Bordeaux, and are ideally sized to access smaller ports and islands, too.
SHIP’S SPECIFICATION Ship’s Tonnage
11,563
Length
461 Feet
Beam
67 feet
Draft
20.5 feet
Cruising Speed
16 knots
Our on-board experience is also a little different: you’ll discover an intimate and relaxed atmosphere that enables you to get to know your like-minded fellow travellers. Whether it’s over dinner, in conversation about a lecture or on shore excursions, friendships are easily formed.
Passenger Decks
7
Stabilisers
2
Passengers also appreciate our smart, casual dress code – cutting down on the amount of luggage you need.
Ship’s Registry
Passenger Staterooms/Cabins
216
Passengers, lower beds
386
Classification
Lloyd’s Register Society London Panama
ON-BOARD FACILITIES • Two restaurants
• Internet Centre
• Three lounges
• Outdoor pool
• Four bars
• Athena Spa and Gym
• Lecture theatre
• Beauty Salon
• Library
• Medical Centre
• Shop
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What passengers love most about Aegean Odyssey is the warm and intimate atmosphere. Ships, like people, have personalities. Some are proper and formal. Others offer the anonymity of a large hotel. On board Aegean Odyssey you are greeted as a returning family member even if it’s your first time on board.
DINING DELIGHTS - INDOORS OR OUT! We are very fortunate that the areas we sail to have a strong culinary tradition. The gastronomic culture of using the very best fresh local ingredients cooked in a simple but delicious style is the inspiration for the menus on board Aegean Odyssey. THE MARCO POLO RESTAURANT: The most formal of the ship’s restaurants, the Marco Polo has full waiter service and a casual country-club elegance. THE TERRACE CAFE: With a combination of indoor and outdoor seating, sophisticated Mediterranean interior design and cooking on the open grill, the Terrace Cafe replicates the charm and ambiance of a seaside trattoria.
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Dinner al fresco: In the evenings, the Terrace Cafe recreates the informal yet sophisticated atmosphere of a bistro, the perfect place to start your evening.
SERVICE WITH A SMILE Ask any world traveller where they receive the best service and they will undoubtedly answer the Far East.
REFRESHING THE MIND - AS WELL AS THE BODY! During your cruise you will enjoy a programme of lectures and discussions held in the Ambassador Lounge, designed to bring to life the wonderful sites you visit on your journey. There will normally be a number of guest speakers on your cruise, each with different areas of expertise. Our library is beautifully appointed and houses a well-stocked collection selected by the experts at the Oxford-based bookseller, Blackwell’s. Newspapers are delivered by satellite and are available in the library. Relax on the sun deck and cool off in the outdoor pool. Pamper yourself at the Athena Health Spa,
where you will find wonderful therapies and treatments to revive you. Our hairdressers and beauty centre is also on hand, and there’s a full fitness studio and early morning yoga sessions to set you up for the day.
Of all the nationalities in this part of the world, it is the Filipinos who carry the highest reputation for attention to detail. Fluent in English and always ready with a smile, our Filipino crew will win your heart.
Before dinner, enjoy a drink in the Charleston Lounge or watch the sun go down from The Terrace. After dinner, perhaps take in a lecture about the places you’ll visit the next day, or enjoy the string trio, pianist and vocalist performance. In some ports we organise local entertainment to perform on board.
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Category B - Junior Stateroom with balcony
Category H - Premium Outside Cabin
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Category F - Deluxe Stateroom
DECK PLANS
KEY Single Cabins Third Pullman berth in these cabins
Third/Fourth Pullman berth in these cabins
#
Cabin for guests with disabilities
Double Accomodation
Elevator 404# 403
405
707
708
714
711
716
713
718
713
718
715
720
715
720
717
722
717
722
721 723
815
815 816 817
818
819
820 822
816
537 CHARLESTON LOUNGE
CHARLESTON LOUNGE
539 543
541
531
549
429
427 ▲
▲ 530 431 435
532
535
536
537
538 539
HAIR DRESSER
545
540543 547 542549
541
INTERNET
817 819
820
739
742 739
742
TERRACE CAFE
822
741
744 741
744
823
824
823
824
743
746 743
746
826
825
826
745
748 745
748
BAR
BAR
827
828
827
828
747
750 747
750
THE TERRACE
THE TERRACE
476
478
478
• •
• •
554 556
567
560 567
560
569
562 569
562
571
564 571
564
573
566 573
566
575
568 575
568
577
570 577
570
•
476
477
552
558
460
544 477
561 554
• •
456
474
561
• •
TERRACE CAFE
454
460
475
550
556 563
456451
475
542
559 552
558 565
451
474
557 550
565
453
471
559
563
452
471
557
740
446
450
464
546
738
448
452447
464 ATHENA HEALTH 466 SPA 470
548
740 737
446443
467
546
738 735
448445 450449 454453
ATHENA 459 HEALTH SPA 463
555 548
733 736
443 447
459
553
737
440
540 467
555
735
432 436 ▲
445
455
553
SHOP
438
428
449 536 455
730
SHOP 736
434
424
442
727
734
430
444
730
731 734
426
420
442
727
LIBRARY
422
416
444
544
LIBRARY
418
439
551
732
437
414 ▲
441
551
729 732
433
413 416
418415 420 417 422 419 421 424 426 425 428423 430 429 432427 ▲ 434 ▲ 431 ▲ 436433 438 435 440437
412
441
463
INTERNET
408 409 410
412 411
534 439
538 HAIR DRESSER
408 407
••
• 423
RECEPTION
547 545
419
425
728
818
821
• •
• • 535
518 421 522
534
RECEPTION
825
821
530527 528
532 533
520
725
• •
813 814
527 528 529 531
417
728
•
811 812
813
524 523 524 521 522 526 ▲ 525 ▲ 526 ▲
414 ▲
413 415
725
729 812 731 814 733
• •
• 811
723
520519 518 517
523
533
721
• •
POOL
719
517
525 ▲
529
712 • 710 •
709
716
726 •
POOL
521
•
714
711
719
519
726 •
ION
AMBASSADOR LOUNGE
• •
LIDO BAR
•
709
•
LIDO BAR
AMBASSADOR LOUNGE
409 410
•
708
514
513 516
411
•
707
510
515514
• •
706
810 •
809 •
704
705
509 512 511510 509 512 513 516
702
724 •
806 808
703
706
• •
805 807
704
705
712 • 710 •
806 808
810 • 809 •
805 807
703
•
804
803
701
724 •
804
803
515
702
■
701
407
508
■
802
801
• •
511 802
801
504 505 506
507508
406
■
503 504 505 506
■
503 507
404#
406405
•
BRIDGE
•
403 BRIDGE
466 470
MARCO POLO RESTAURANT
MARCO POLO RESTAURANT
M
STANDARD INSIDE
L
PREMIUM INSIDE
K
PREMIUM INSIDE
J
STANDARD OUTSIDE
I*
STANDARD OUTSIDE
H
PREMIUM OUTSIDE
G
PREMIUM OUTSIDE
F
DELUXE STATEROOM OUTSIDE
E
DELUXE STATEROOM OUTSIDE
D
DELUXE STATEROOM BALCONY
C
DELUXE STATEROOM BALCONY
B
JJUNIOR SUITE BALCONY
A
OWNER'S SUITE BALCONY
Single Accomodation MEDICAL
MEDICAL
MM
STANDARD INSIDE
JJ
STANDARD OUTSIDE
II*
STANDARD OUTSIDE
HH*
PREMIUM OUTSIDE
GG*
PREMIUM OUTSIDE
EE
DELUXE STATEROOM OUTSIDE
CC
DELUXE STATEROOM BALCONY
*Categories GG, I, II and some HH cabins
PROMENADE DECK LIDO DECKLIDO DECK BRIDGE DECK PROMENADE DECK BRIDGE DECK
MARCO POLO DECK MARCO POLO DECK BELVEDERE DECK DECK have partially restricted view BELVEDERE DECKCOLUMBUSCOLUMBUS DECK
www.voyagestoantiquity.com 21
EXCURSION INFORMATION Voyages to Antiquity’s cruises include shore excursions in most ports of call. Some ports offer multiple opportunities for sightseeing, and in these instances, Voyages to Antiquity offers carefully selected excursions – some as an alternative to the main included excursion, some at an additional cost.
WHAT TO EXPECT ON TOUR These sightseeing programmes are outstanding but can be challenging. Visits to archaeological sites require walking over uneven surfaces, up and down multiple steps, and therefore a reasonable level of fitness is recommended. Some passengers may decide to take a break on certain days and explore the environs around the port. Look for the symbols alongside each tour description to get a good idea of what can be expected on each excursion. Tour durations are approximate and, to be sure you get the most out of the excursion and to avoid overcrowding, the sequence of site visits and operating times may vary. The on-board staff will brief you nightly on the expected plans for the following day. All departure times and meeting points will be advised in the Daily Journal on board. Some countries require you to carry certain documents ashore and this will be advised on board at the appropriate time. Please note that we reserve the right to change, cancel or substitute an included excursion at any time. Alhambra Palace
22
OUR SHORE EXCURSION TEAM Our Shore Excursion Manager and Graduate Assistants are on hand to make sure you get the most out of your shoreside experience. Informative briefings will be given regarding the excursions and ports of call, and the team will be on hand at the Reception Desk to answer any further queries you might have. During the excursions, although we endeavour to have a representative on each bus as much as possible, this cannot be guaranteed. The role of our ship’s excursion staff when ashore, is primarily to ensure the smooth operation and delivery of our excursion product in conjunction with the local guide and operator. This often means rotating between groups and working with the local guides. Kindly note that, although keen to assist when required, our team are not responsible for providing walking support or making sure everyone in the group is present.
OUR GUIDES It is one thing to see the ancient Greek temple at Segesta and quite another to see it in the company of a good guide who can share his/her knowledge and passion for history. All of our shore excursions feature qualified English-speaking guides who seek to enlighten your visit with their expertise.
SHOPPING From Greek pottery and olive oil in Sicily to Spanish lace, the crafts of this part of the world have evolved over the centuries. While these shore excursions focus on the history, culture and archaeology of the area, some offer the chance
to visit local workshops and observe demonstrations. Voyages to Antiquity has no connection with any shopping establishment and does not assume responsibility for purchases made ashore. We also recommend insurance on anything you choose to ship home.
TRANSPORTATION Various modes of transportation are used, depending on the excursion. Most motorcoaches are deluxe, air-conditioned vehicles unless unavailable in that port.
VISITS TO SITES/MUSEUMS On occasions, substitutions need to be made due to opening/ closing times of some sites/museums, but all possible is done to ensure schedules operate as described. If a change is made, guests will be advised with their final documents or at the shore excursion briefings on board. Note: For passengers on Grand Voyages, availability of included and optional excursions in Athens and Seville will be advised on board.
CLOTHING TIPS
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Sunhats and sunscreen are recommended when participating in excursions – especially when walking through towns and villages. Sturdy walking shoes are recommended for most of the excursions on this itinerary.
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.
Respectful dress is required for the following excursions as sites of a religious nature are included: Valletta and MDina, Palatine Chapel and Cathedral, Monreale and Cadiz City Highlights. As a rule, this means that shoulders and knees should be covered. Further details will be advised in the on-board briefings, along with weather predictions.
Responsibility 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
vacation 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.
www.voyagestoantiquity.com 23
THE 2017 CRUISE COLLECTION MADEIRA,
May 3 2017
M OR O C C O & SEVILLE
Madeira’s magnificent flora begins this springtime voyage to the Canary Islands, Morocco’s great cities and the charms of Moorish Seville and Cordoba
IBERIA,
HISTORIC SPAIN, SICILY & ITALY
May 11, 2017
ICELAND,
May 25, 2017
FRENCH MOORISH
A springtime voyage combining a two-night hotel stay in Rome, visits to the islands of Sardinia, Corsica and Elba, Renaissance Florence and the French Riviera
June 29 & August 8, 2017
ENGLAND,
Enjoy the sunshine on a two-week voyage from the French Riviera down the western Mediterranean coast to Spain’s historic cities, and the tip of mainland Europe
July 13, 2017
CELTIC
FRANCE &
FAROES &
IRELAND &
S COTLAND &
ENGLAND
SHETLANDS
S COTLAND
IRELAND
Join our magnificent voyage to the edge of the Arctic Circle and the incredible landscapes and nautural wonders of Iceland
From the catles and caves of Scotland to the Isles of Scilly, get to know more about the British Isles and Ireland on this fascinating summer sailing
Two nights in Edinburgh begin this voyage from Scotland to the spectacular west of Ireland and the beautiful Isles of Scilly
Sail from Seville along the Guadalquivir River and onto the Atlantic on a voyage to Portugal’s historic cities, France’s Bordeaux wine region and England’s South Coast
THE BEST OF
August 22, 2017
FRANCE &
MEDITERRANEAN
September 1, 2017
ODYS SEY
ITALIAN &
September 13, 2017
ADRIATIC
PORTUGAL
Sail through the Strait of Gibraltar and accross the Mediterranean as this splendid voyage takes you to charming ports and historic cities
DALMATIA
July 24, 2017
September 27, 2017
& ANCIENT
HIGHLIGHTS
Enjoy the summer sun as you sail south to France’s Chateaux Country and on to Portugal’s historic cities
June 6, 2017
RIVIERA & SPAIN
Moorish cities, monumental Sicily, the mysteries of Pompeii, and the grandeur of Rome - all in one magnificent journey
June 15, 2017
THE RENAIS SANCE & RIVIERA S
GREECE
This leisurely-paced cruise around Italy allows time to enjoy the pleasures of beautiful Sorrento, explore the ruins of Pompeii and Sicily, and sail along the glorius Adriatic coast to Venice
THE MULTI-AWARD WINNING CRUISE LINE
Cruise through the beautiful Adriatic Sea and the serene splendour of Kotor Bay en route to the classical sites of ancient Greece
UK CRUISERS’ CHOICE
CLA S SICAL
October 5, 2017
ANCIENT
GREECE &
GREECE,
AEGEAN
SICILY &
ISLANDS
SPAIN
This fascinating voyage around the Aegean is a true autumn treat. Starting from Athens, you will visit some of the most inspiring monuments of the ancient world
Sail across the southern Mediterranean to the fascinating island of Sicily and the sites of Moorish Spain
October 16, 2017
ANDALUSIAN
October 29, 2017
SEVILLE,
SPAIN &
MOROCCO
MOROCCO
& CANARY ISLANDS
November 9, 2017
2017
Voyages to Antiquity Aegean Odyssey Best Small Ship: Shore Excursions
WINNER Andalusia’s great cities – Seville, Cordoba and Granada – combine with exotic Morocco on this fabulous voyage
Discover the lkesser-known teasures of the canary Islands and enjoy a tour of the very best of Morocco
These Cruise Guides are available to download from our website www.voyagestoantiquity.com
AWARDS
2015 VOYAGES TO ANTIQUITY BEST FOR ENRICHMENT