CRUISE GUIDE
DALMATIA & ANCIENT GREECE
Cruise through the beautiful Adriatic Sea to the serene splendour of Kotor Bay en route to the classical sites of ancient Greece
September 27 – October 7, 2017 Venice to Athens
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.
VENICE CROATIA
AEG170927 2017
PORT
SEP 27
VENICE Italy Embark Aegean Odyssey
SEP 28
VENICE Italy
SEP 29
ANCONA Italy
SEP 30 OCT 1 OCT 2 OCT 3 OCT 4 OCT 5 OCT 6 OCT 7
ARRIVE
Ancona
DEPART
ITALY O
Korcula Dubrovnik
8.00am
ALBANIA
Sarande
8.00pm
SPLIT Croatia
7.00am
10.00pm
KORCULA Croatia
7.00am
1.00pm
DUBROVNIK Croatia
6.00pm
Overnight O
Corfu
KOTOR BAY Montenegro
Cruising
SARANDE Albania
7.00am
CORFU Greek Islands
2.00pm
7.30pm
KATAKOLON Greece
7.30am
1.00pm
PYLOS Greece
6.30pm
Overnight O
12.30pm
5.00pm
PYLOS Greece MONEMVASIA Greece
7.00am
Noon
HYDRA Greek Islands
5.00pm
9.00pm
ATHENS Greece Disembark Aegean Odyssey in Piraeus, the port of Athens
7.00am
ATHENS GREECE
Katakolon Pylos
1.00pm
DUBROVNIK Croatia
MONTENEGRO
Kotor Bay
7.00pm
O Overnight stay in port
Venicel
2
Split
Hydra Monemvasia
INTRODUCTION
VOYAGE HIGHLIGHTS
A day spent in Venice is the perfect way to begin this cruise before sailing to Ancona, for a full day excursion to Urbino, birthplace of Raphael, followed by Split in Croatia, Dubrovnik and the natural wonder of Kotor Bay on the Dalmatian coast.
• Spend a day in the romantic city of Venice
Explore the classical ruins of Sarande in Albania and the Byzantine relics of Corfu. Cruise the coast of the Peloponnese with excursions to sites of antiquity in Katakolon, Pylos, Monemvasia and more, before arriving in Hydra, one of the most beautiful islands in the Aegean. Your cruise finishes in Piraeus, close to the Greek capital, Athens.
• Call in at Split, Korcula and Dubrovnik as you sail along the picturesque Dalmatian coast • Sail into the spectacular Bay of Kotor in Montenegro • Visit the site of the first Olympic Games • Explore the castles of southern Greece from Pylos • Spend an evening ashore on the traffic-free Greek island of Hydra
Dubrovnik
Athens
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YOUR CRUISE DAY BY DAY
SEPTEMBER 27 VENICE, ITALY Board Aegean Odyssey in Venice this afternoon, so that you may settle in and start enjoying the facilities, before dinner and an overnight spent on-board ship.
SEPTEMBER 28 VENICE, ITALY “To live in Venice or even visit it means you fall in love with the city itself.” The veracity of this remark by the famous American art collector Peggy Guggenheim will be clear after your overnight stay in the city, and there is no better way to start your trip than with a morning’s Venice Walking Tour, during which a knowledgeable guide will navigate the city for you, uncovering its treasures as they share their tales. Travel by boat down the Guidecca Canal to the heart of Venice, St Mark’s Square, where sights include the Campanile and the 15th-century clock tower. St Mark’s Basilica is a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, while the Doge’s Palace is a 14th-century Gothic masterpiece. Alternatively, take a boat ride to The Islands of Murano and Burano. On the Venetian Lagoon, you’ll visit Murano of glassmaking fame, and Burano with its gaily painted fishermen’s houses. En route, your guide will provide information, before you enjoy some independent exploration at each destination. The afternoon will then be at leisure, with an evening sail.
SEPTEMBER 29 ANCONA, ITALY
St Mark’s Basilica, Venice
4
Breakfast arrival in the port of Ancona for an included fullday excursion to Renaissance Urbino. Perched on two hills, this walled town contains some true treasures. Here you will
visit the birthplace of Raphael, where he lived until the age of fourteen, tour the Palazzo Ducale, Italy’s most beautiful Renaissance palace, and view the magnificent Duomo, built in 1789 atop a 6th-century sacred site. The Duomo houses several important artworks, including a painting of the Last Supper by Federico Barocci, while the Museo Diocesano has a collection of glass, ceramics, and religious items. After visiting the cathedral there will be some free time before an evening sail.
SEPTEMBER 30 SPLIT, CROATIA Breakfast arrival in Split, home to one of the greatest of all Roman sites, The Palace of Diocletian, for an included morning sightseeing tour to this remarkable building, including the Temple of Jupiter and Diocletian’s mausoleum, which held three temples and could accommodate 9,000 people. You’ll also tour the city museum, where 15th-century furnishings recapture aristocratic life of the period, with free time to visit the colourful local market or to explore Split on your own. In the afternoon, there’s an option of visiting Salona, one of the gems of the Dalmatian coast and home to the most important Roman excavations in Croatia, the tiny island of Trogir, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where archaeologists have excavated temples, baths, a necropolis and an amphitheatre dating from the 1st century AD. Your tour then continues into the town, past castles built by Venetians to defend against the Turks in the Middle Ages and the 13thcentury Cathedral of St Lawrence. There will then be some leisure time in port, before a late evening sail.
OCTOBER 1 KORCULA – DUBROVNIK, CROATIA Early arrival in Korcula, said to be the birthplace of Marco Polo; this pine-forested island is home to some splendid Venetian architecture. After breakfast take an included morning sightseeing Walking Tour of Korcula, from the Old Town and the Cathedral of St Mark, past the family home of Marco Polo to the 14th-century Bishop’s Palace, which houses an art collection including works by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo and Tiepolo. The 16th-century Gabrielli Palace and City Museum then have an array of Greek and Roman artefacts. Return to ship for a lunchtime sail, cruising past the beautiful islands of Hvar and Brac to arrive in Dubrovnik in time for an evening ashore.
Split
OCTOBER 2 DUBROVNIK, CROATIA Lord Byron described Dubrovnik as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” and it is easy to see why. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is held to be the best-preserved walled city in the Mediterranean with a seafront setting and dramatic mountain backdrop. The city skyline is a medley of bell towers and copper domes. The included morning sightseeing Dubrovnik Walking Tour features the magnificent fortifications, 10th-century walls, Baroque Church of St Blaise and the Cathedral of Our Lady, originally built in the 12th century then destroyed in the 1667 earthquake and triumphantly rebuilt. Then return to Aegean Odyssey for another lunchtime sail, heading south to the stunning fjord of Kotor Bay in Montenegro.
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OCTOBER 3 SARANDE, ALBANIA – CORFU, GREECE
DESTINATION TIP
Arrive at breakfast time in Sarande, for an included morning excursion to the Archaeological Site of Butrint, a rich repository of the past and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, which has been occupied since at least the 8th century BC. Roman Emperor Augustus founded a colony here, and Butrint’s medieval history was turbulent as the town was involved in the power struggles between Byzantium and successive Norman, Angevin and Venetian states.
PYLOS We are one of the few ships that stop at this small, historic town in the Peloponnese, plus we are small enough to dock alongside in its port. With the deep blue waters, white houses and bougainvillaea-lined streets, it is easy to forget that you are on the mainland – even the name is reminiscent of a Cycladic island! Our destination team urge you to head out and experience this hidden gem on the evening of arrival – the area near the port comes alive with bustling tavernas. It is a crime not to sample the fresh fish in this part of the world!
At lunchtime, we will sail to Corfu for a choice of included afternoon excursions on an island where cricket is played on the green and the legacy of British rule is still evident in its architecture and sights, as you will see during the included Corfu Town Highlights tour. Enjoy a stroll along the Venetianbuilt Esplanade and discover the Old Town’s narrow stepped streets, Georgian mansions and red-domed Agios Spyridon church, containing the remains of Corfu’s patron saint. You will also visit the Byzantine Museum in the Church of Panagia Antivouniotissa. Alternatively, Achilleion Palace & Paleokastritsa features one of the most renowned royal villas in Europe, full of work inspired by Greek mythology, including Herter’s garden centrepiece, Achilles Dying, followed by one of the most picturesque areas on the island, where the Monastery of Paleokastritsa was founded in 1225, although the present building, from the 18th to 19th centuries. St Mark’sdates Basilica, Venice After your tour, return to Aegean Odyssey for an evening sail. Butrint
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OCTOBER 4 KATAKOLON – PYLOS, GREECE Arrive at breakfast in the small village of Katakolon, our first port of call on the Greek mainland, for an included morning sightseeing tour to Ancient Olympia, where the inaugural Olympic Games took place in 776BC and the outstanding Temple of Zeus housed the gold-and-ivory statue of Zeus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. In 2004 the famous Stadium, the largest of its day with a capacity of 45,000 spectators, was restored for the historic return of the modern Olympics to Athens. You will also visit the archaeological museum, with artefacts including the Head of Hera and ornaments from the Temple of Zeus, the famous statue of Hermes created by Praxiteles and the helmet of Miltiades. Then return to Aegean Odyssey for a lunchtime departure to Pylos, arriving in the early evening after a leisurely afternoon cruising the Ionian Sea, to spend a relaxing evening ashore with an overnight aboard ship.
OCTOBER 5 PYLOS, GREECE Pylos is a treasure trove of historical sites and in 1827 its bay was the site of the Battle of Navarino. Here there will be a choice of included morning sightseeing tours: Ancient Messini is regarded by many as one of the bestpreserved archaeological sites in Greece. Take a short drive to the Arcadian Gate and enter this marvellous location which includes an almost-intact theatre, the ruins of a 3rd-century temple, a time-worn sanctuary and a Byzantine monastery.
Olympia
Alternatively, Castles of Southern Greece features the Venetian castle of Methoni and the castle of Niokastro, built by the Turks in 1573 and one of the most well preserved castles in Greece, which today is home to the Centre for Underwater Archaeological Studies. The afternoon will then be at leisure, before a late afternoon sail.
OCTOBER 6 MONEMVASIA, GREECE Arrive at breakfast time in Monemvasia, which dates back to the 6th century and has been called the Gibraltar of Greece, for an included morning walking tour to the beautiful Old Town. Pass through a gap in a rocky cliff and emerge into a medieval scene to visit the 13th-century Church of Christos Elkomenos
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(Christ Chained to the Cross) featuring several Byzantine icons.Those who wish to do so may then climb on their own to see another 13th-century treasure, the ethereal Agia Sofia, a rare example of a domed octagonal church with original wall paintings. Alternatively, you may prefer to seek out a quiet cafe for a sip of Malmsey, the sweet dessert wine that originated in this atmospheric spot, before returning to ship for a noontime sail to Hydra, where there will be a free evening ashore, before a late evening sail to Athens. Monemvasia
With no cars on the island, Hydra has long been a tranquil refuge from the hustle and bustle of the city for wealthy Athenians, and is perhaps the most charming of all Greek islands.
OCTOBER 7 PIRAEUS, GREECE Disembark Aegean Odyssey after breakfast, in Piraeus, the port of Athens.
For those passengers who have opted for the post-cruise hotel stay in Athens, please go online to www.voyagestoantiquity.com for more information. Full itinerary details will be sent with your Final Documents.
Monemvasia
8
INCLUDED SHORE EXCURSIONS VENICE
SARANDE
Walking Tour of Venice - Half Day
Archaeological Site of Butrint
The Islands of Murano and Burano - Half Day ANCONA Renaissance Urbino - Full Day SPLIT The Palace of Diocletian - Half Day KORCULA Walking Tour of Korcula - Half Day DUBROVNIK Dubrovnik Walking Tour - Half Day
- Half Day CORFU Corfu Town Highlights - Half Day Achilleion Palace and Paleokastritsa - Half Day KATAKOLON Ancient Olympia - Half Day PYLOS Ancient Messini - Half Day Castles of Southern Greece - Half Day MONEMVASIA Old Town - 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.
KEY TO SYMBOLS
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 continuous walking. Of note on this itinerary – some of the excursions take in archaeological sites with quite difficult terrain such as Ancient Messini, Castles of Southern Greece and Butrint. Some guests may want to carefully consider before opting to participate in these excursions. The full day Renaissance Urbino excursion from Ancona also involves extensive walking over a long period. Guests should also be advised that all excursions in Venice involve getting in and out of water transportation and that all routes into St Mark’s Square involve walking over numerous bridges with steps.
Extensive walking Cobbled streets Archaeological ground Significant steps Uphill sections Features a boat ride Lunch included Insect Repellent recommended
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OPTIONAL EXCURSION SPLIT, Croatia Salona and Trogir - Half Day - $35 Drive along the Riviera of the Seven Castles to two gems of the Dalmatian coast: the town of Salona, home to the most important Roman excavations in Croatia, and the tiny island of Trogir, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Leave behind busy Split for Solin, as ancient Salona is now called, and enter a world where time stands still. Long before Split even existed this affluent Roman colony buzzed with over 40,000 inhabitants. Here archaeologists have excavated temples, a necropolis and baths dating from the 1st century AD. There is an amphitheatre where it is thought mock naval battles where held. In this arena early Christians were martyred and their relics rest in Salona’s excavated churches. Following your tour through Roman antiquity, your drive continues past the castles built by Venetians to defend against the Turks. Salona
10
Cross a bridge from the mainland and enter the Middle Ages on the island of Trogir. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a remarkable example of urban continuity starting with the Greeks in 300BC, followed by a litany of other conquerors. In the 13th century Trogir was an artistic centre under the kings of Hungary. The 13th century Cathedral of St Lawrence dominates the town, a magnificent example of sacral architecture with three naves, three apses and a grand main portal carved by a local artist known as Master Radovan. Enjoy an unforgettable walk along narrow stone streets whose plan dates to the Hellenistic era. Confront the past at every turn from the bright blue face of the massive Clock Tower to the mullioned windows of Cipiko Palace and Town Hall. Later you will have free time to shop for Trogir embroidery or perhaps try some palacinke (jam-filled pancakes) in a cafe.
Trogir
Salona
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.
12
Professor Robin Cormack Courtauld Institute of Art, London Robin Cormack is an art historian who works on Mediterranean art, particularly from Antiquity and Byzantium, but also from the Renaissance. He teaches in the Classics Faculty, University of Cambridge, and gave lectures in 2014 at the National Gallery of Art, Washington D.C. and at the Universities of California at Los Angeles and Santa Barbara. Robin has published books on Byzantine Art, and co-curated the Royal Academy exhibition, Byzantium 330-1453. He has a special side-interest in British architects who worked in Khartoum and New Delhi, and since he has always made it an aim never to write or lecture about monuments and sites unless he has visited them and studied them at first hand, travel is one of the things he does most often. Fortunately his wife, Professor Mary Beard, agrees with this aim, and travels too (and not just on twitter). So do his children who are both students working in Africa, and who spend time in Cairo and South Sudan. He is currently trying to learn to play the harpsichord, but that does not travel with him.
Dr Gillian Shepherd La Trobe University, Victoria, Australia Gillian studied Classics and Fine Arts at the University of Melbourne before going on to complete a PhD in Classical Archaeology at Trinity College, Cambridge, followed by a research fellowship at St Hugh’s College, Oxford. Until her recent return to Australia to take up her position at La Trobe University, Gillian was Lecturer in Classical Archaeology at the University of Birmingham. Gillian is currently Director of The Trendall Research Centre for Ancient Mediterranean Studies at La Trobe, and her research interests are the ancient Greek colonisation of Sicily and Italy, archaeology and art of Greece and Magna Graecia, and burial customs, the subject of a book she’s currently completing. She is also series editor of the IAA Interdisciplinary Series and coedited its first volume on children in the past, Children, Childhood and Society. Gillian is also Curator of the IAA Museum, a Research Associate of the Beazley Archive, University of Oxford, and a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries.
Peter Medhurst Pianist and lecturer-recitalist, NADFAS accredited Lecturer Peter Medhurst’s work as singer, pianist and lecturer-recitalist has taken him all over the world, and in the last few years he has toured New Zealand, Australia, South Africa and made frequent tours in Europe, giving performances in Berlin, Hamburg, Vienna, Salzburg, Brussels, Antwerp, Amsterdam, Paris and Spain. Closer to home, he has presented events at the Barbican, St John’s Smith Square, and the Royal Festival Hall on Beethoven String Quartets, Mozart Operas, Vermeer’s Music Lesson, The Twelve Days of Christmas, The Golden Age of Vienna, and 18th-century Venetian Art and Music.
and adjudicated and given masterclasses for the British Federation of Music Festivals. Peter is director of The Classical Music Company, and part of the triumvirate – with television director David Coleman and television producer Sheridan Dudley – that has formed Blue Thread Medhurst Productions. The organisation promotes special musical events, creates films about the arts, produces recordings and organises specialist music tours to unusual locations both at home and abroad.
He has also directed presentations at the Wallace Collection, the National Gallery, the National Portrait Gallery and the V&A, linking the visual arts with the world of 17th & 18th century music making. He is a familiar face to audiences of music societies, regional theatres and British festivals as well as to those of arts-based organisations such as The Art Fund, The National Trust. He is also a NADFAS accredited lecturer. Over the years Peter Medhurst has lectured for the universities of Kent and Surrey, directed a wide range of choirs, vocal ensembles and instrumental groups,
Hydra
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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.
ISBN: 9780141977164, Paperback
David S H Abulafia The Great Sea ISBN: 9781904955771, Paperback
Eric Newby On the Shores of the Mediterranean ISBN: 9780007367917, Paperback 14
ISBN: 9780863569593, Paperback
Barnaby Rogerson Croatia: Through Writer’s Eyes ISBN: 9780907871897, Paperback
Clarissa de Waal Albania ISBN: 9781780764849, Paperback
Judith Herrin Byzantium ISBN: 9780141031026 Paperback
Lawrence Durrell Prospero’s Cell
N O N -F I C T I O N
Colin McEvedy New Penguin Atlas of Ancient History
Robin Harris Dubrovnik
ISBN: 9780571201655, Paperback
Jan Morris Venice ISBN: 9780907871897, Paperback
Jan Morris and J G Links Venice for Pleasure
Edith Hall Introducing The Ancient Greeks ISBN: 9780099583646, Paperback
Dr Matthew Nicholls 30-Second Ancient Greece
Athens
Nigel Spivey The Ancient Olympics ISBN: 9780199602698, Paperback
ISBN: 9780571168972, Paperback
ISBN: 9781782403883, Paperback
Mary Beard SPQR: A History of Ancient Rome
Harry Mount Harry Mount’s Odyssey: Ancient Greece in the Footsteps of Odysseus
Peter Jones Eureka! Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About the Ancient Greeks but Were Afraid to Ask
ISBN: 9781846683817, Paperback
ISBN: 9780571201655, Paperback
ISBN: 9781782395164, Paperback
Ernst Gombrich The Story of Art ISBN: 9780714847030, Paperback
James H McGregor Athens ISBN: 9780674047723, Hardback
Sofka Zinovieff Eurydice Street ISBN: 9781862077508, Paperback
Thucydides The Peloponnesian War ISBN: 9780192821911, Paperback
Robin Cormack (Lecturing on Board) Byzantine Art ISBN: 9780192842114, Paperback
Paul Sterry Birds of the Mediterranean
FICTION
Marina Fiorato The Glassblower of Murano ISBN: 9781848547940, Paperback
Gregory Dowling Ascension ISBN: 9781846973130, Paperback
Olja Savicevic Farewell, Cowboy ISBN: 9781908236487, Paperback
Valerio Massimo Manfredi Tyrant
MAPS, GUIDES & REFERENCE Title
Publisher
ISBN Number
Mediterranean Cruise Map
Freytag and Berndt
9783707912906
Cruise Guide to Europe
Eyewitness Travel Guide
9781409370222
Venice and the Veneto
Eyewitness Travel Guide
9780241199558
Dubrovnik & Dalmatian Coast
Marco Polo Pocket Guide with Map
9783829706568
Albania
Bradt Guide
9781841628554
Greece
Insight Guide
9781780051291
Corfu
Marco Polo Pocket Guide with Map
9783829706643
Athens
Marco Polo Pocket Guide with Map
9783829707077
Athens: The Hidden Gems
-
9781326057336
ISBN: 9781447276685, Paperback
Madeline Miller The Song of Achilles ISBN: 9781408821985, Paperback
ISBN: 9780713663495, Paperback
Lawson Wood Sea Fishes of the Mediterranean Including Marine Invertebrates ISBN: 9781472921789, Paperback
Corfu
Dubrovnik
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AEGEAN ODYSSEY
16
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
20
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
• •
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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
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810 •
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509 512 511510 509 512 513 516
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801
• •
511 802
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504 505 506
507508
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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. Urbino
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 Urbino and quite another to see it in the company of a good guide who speaks your language and 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 Venetian glass to Greek pottery and olive oil, 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 Venice and Piraeus 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: Corfu Town Highlights (if wishing to go inside Agios Spyridon church), Korcula Walking Tour and Dubrovnik Walking Tour. 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.
Venice
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