CRUISE GUIDE
25 September – 5 October 2018 Venice to Athens
DALMATIA & ANCIENT GREECE
A journey across history from timeless Venice to Roman Split, Medieval Dubrovnik and Ancient Greece, with an extended overnight stay in the off-the-beaten-track Greek highlight of Pylos.
INTRODUCTION In this booklet, you will find useful destination information and a comprehensive guide to both included and optional shore excursions. It also introduces your guest speakers and includes an invaluable reading guide to add an extra dimension of appreciation to your cruise. We look forward to welcoming you on board.
Please note – while we will do our best to adhere to this full itinerary, there may be changes at the discretion of the captain, due to weather advisories, port traffic and other unforeseeable circumstances. 2
An unforgettable journey between two undoubted European icons, Venice and Athens, begins with the myriad Renaissance and later artistic treasures of Venice and Urbino, followed by the imposing palace of 3rd century emperor Diocletian in Split and the less-visited Dalmatian beauty of Korcula. Other cruise highlights include the stunning walled city of Dubrovnik, once described by George Bernard Shaw as ‘paradise on earth’; the fjord-like natural wonderland of Kotor Bay; a stop at Gerald Durrell’s beloved island of Corfu, whose magic settles upon you ‘as gently and clingingly’ as pollen; plus visits throughout Greece’s fertile Peloponnesus. With overnight stays on this voyage in Venice, Dubrovnik and Pylos, Voyages to Antiquity allows you the time to gain a deeper appreciation of these enchanting towns after the day trippers have departed.
Venice
YOUR ITINERARY
AEG180925
ARRIVE
DEPART
VOYAGE HIGHLIGHTS
2018
PORT
25 SEP
VENICE Italy Embark Aegean Odysssey
Overnight
26 SEP
VENICE Italy
7.00pm
• The walled Pearl of the Adriatic, Dubrovnik
27 SEP
ANCONA (Urbino) Italy
8.00am
8.00pm
• Cruising the breathtaking Bay of Kotor
28 SEP
SPLIT Croatia
8.00am
10.00pm
29 SEP
KORCULA Croatia DUBROVNIK Croatia
7.00am 6.00pm
1.00pm Overnight
30 SEP
DUBROVNIK Croatia Cruising Kotor Bay
01 OCT
CORFU Greece
7.00am
7.30pm
02 OCT
KATAKOLON Greece PYLOS Greece
7.30am 6.30pm
1.00pm Overnight
03 OCT
PYLOS Greece
04 OCT
MONEMVASIA Greece HYDRA Greece
7.00am 5.00pm
05 OCT
ATHENS Greece Disembark Aegean Odysssey
7.00am
Noon
• The Old Town of Split, formed around the monumental palace of the Roman emperor Diocletian
• Visit to Olympia, birthplace of the Olympic Games • Overnights in Venice, Dubrovnik and Pylos, to get the most from these stunning cities and appreciate them after the day trippers have departed
8.00pm Noon 11.59pm
Ship at anchor
Please note – this is the cruise itinerary. If you have booked a longer programme with a post-cruise hotel stay, you can find this information on page 12. Kotor Bay
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YOUR CRUISE DAY BY DAY
25 SEPTEMBER 2018 VENICE, ITALY Embark Aegean Odyssey in Venice and enjoy an overnight docked in this magnificent city.
26 SEPTEMBER VENICE, ITALY Memorably described by Erica Jong as ‘the city of mirrors, the city of mirages, at once solid and liquid, at once air and stone’, Venice is an undoubted icon of world travel.
INCLUDED EXCURSION Choice A
A WALKING TOUR OF VENICE (Half day, AM) With canals instead of streets and hundreds of bridges to negotiate, Venice can be difficult to navigate for the visitor. Our walking tour, in the company of a knowledgeable local guide keen to share the city’s stories and reveal its treasures, encompasses highlights including views of St Mark’s Square and Basilica (a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture), and the glorious Gothic Doge’s Palace. We also travel by boat down the Guidecca Canal into the historic heart of the city and the bustling Riva degli Schiavoni promenade. After just a couple of hours, you are sure to appreciate modern art collector and Venice resident Peggy Guggenheim’s sentiment ‘to live in Venice or even visit it means you fall in love with the city itself ’.
INCLUDED EXCURSION Choice B
THE ISLANDS OF MURANO & BURANO (Half day, AM) Returning visitors to Venice, or those with a particular interest in its crafts, may prefer this alternative excursion. We take a boat to the island of Murano, once the centre of the lucrative glassmaking trade and still world famous for its intricate, brightly coloured glassware. Then it is on to the island of Burano, noted for the production of lace and its gaily painted fishermen’s houses. Though guided, there will be time to enjoy some independent exploration and shop for souvenirs on each island.
Murano Glass Venice 4
27 SEPTEMBER ANCONA (URBINO), ITALY With two millennia of history, some fine Renaissance palazzi and an excellent archaeological museum, there is plenty to enjoy in Ancona.
INCLUDED EXCURSION
RENAISSANCE URBINO (Full day)
Perched on two hills, the walled town of Urbino is a true artistic treasure-house, and this full day excursion takes in plenty of highlights. We visit the birthplace of Raphael, the Palazzo Ducale, Italy’s most beautiful Renaissance palace, and the magnificent Duomo, built in 1789 atop a 6th century sacred site. The Duomo houses several important artworks, including Barocci’s Last Supper, while the Museo Diocesano boasts a superb collection of glass, ceramics and religious items. We give free time for independent lunch today, so that everyone can make the most of the time in this Renaissance gem.
28 SEPTEMBER SPLIT, CROATIA Croatia’s second-largest city is the epitome of a Dalmatian Coast resort – rich history, golden beaches and a deliciously fresh cuisine. Its beating heart, the Old Town, was once the mighty palace of Roman emperor Diocletian.
KEY TO SYMBOLS Extensive walking Uneven surfaces
INCLUDED EXCURSION Archaeological ground
THE PALACE OF DIOCLETIAN (Half day, AM) One of the most dramatic and expansive Roman structures, the 4th century Palace of Diocletian comprised more than 200 buildings, including the Temple of Jupiter and the emperor’s mausoleum, which could accommodate 9,000 people. Uniquely, this extraordinary complex has been subsumed into the Old Town of Split. Labyrinthine streets are now lined with shops, restaurants and bars, and a local guide is essential in uncovering its myriad ancient highlights. We also visit the city museum, where 15th century furnishings evoke aristocratic life of the period, with some free time to follow.
Significant steps Uphill sections Features a boat ride Cable car Bustling streets Winding roads Lunch included Respectful dress
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Salona
OPTIONAL EXCURSION
SALONA & TROGIR $35 per person (Half day, PM) Our afternoon optional excursion takes in two jewels of the Dalmatian Coast: Salona, home to the most important Roman excavations in Croatia – followed by 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. We also explore the town, admire medieval castles built by the Venetians as defence against the Turks, and visit the 13th century Cathedral of St Lawrence.
Trogir
6
29 SEPTEMBER KORCULA, CROATIA Korcula, said to be the birthplace of Marco Polo, is a pine-forested island and home to some splendid Venetian architecture. The afternoon will be spent cruising past the beautiful islands of Hvar and Brac, for an arrival and overnight in Dubrovnik.
30 SEPTEMBER DUBROVNIK, CROATIA / CRUISING KOTOR BAY Considered the best-preserved walled city in the Mediterranean, set between mountain and sea, Dubrovnik is nothing short of spectacular. To visit is to discover why Lord Byron acclaimed it the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’.
INCLUDED EXCURSION
INCLUDED EXCURSION
A WALKING TOUR OF KORCULA (Half day, AM)
DUBROVNIK WALKING TOUR (Half day, AM)
This morning’s walk takes us from the ship to the Old Town with its Venetian towers and 14th century walls. Highlights include the Cathedral of St Mark which overlooks the town from up high, the family home of Marco Polo, and 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. Korcula
Dubrovnik
With its marble streets, 10th century fortifications, elegant stone houses and medley of bell towers and copper domes, Dubrovnik is so perfect as to resemble a film set – and indeed, it has recently found fame doubling for King’s Landing in Game of Thrones. Our walking tour of this UNESCO World Heritage Site takes in the magnificent city walls, the Baroque Church of St Blaise and the Cathedral of Our Lady – originally built in the 12th century, it was destroyed in the 1667 earthquake and triumphantly rebuilt. There is further free time to make your own discoveries. Walking the top of the walls is a particular pleasure, or consider the cable car from Ploce Gate, affording stunning views of the Old Town and harbour. The sparkling, butterfly-shaped Bay of Kotor, with its mountainous backdrop, attractive islands and historic towns is one of Europe’s natural wonders, and Aegean Odyssey cruises its sublime, fjord-like waters this afternoon.
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01 OCTOBER CORFU, GREECE With a cultural heritage of Venetian, British and French rule, Corfu is not a typical Greek island, but this idyllic place of refuge for the shipwrecked Odysseus still enchants its visitors.
INCLUDED EXCURSION Choice A Corfu
ACHILLEION PALACE (Half day, AM) The Pompeiian style Achilleion Palace, built in the 19th century, is one of the most splendid and renowned royal villas in Europe. Our visit invites admiration of its works of art, inspired by Greek mythology and particularly the story of Achilles. The imperial gardens, with German sculptor Ernst Herter’s celebrated statue Achilles Dying at their centre, present far-reaching island views.
INCLUDED EXCURSION Choice B
CORFU TOWN HIGHLIGHTS (Half day, AM) Corfu’s multi-faceted heritage is apparent everywhere. Cricket is still played on the village green, and two Venetian fortresses flank Corfu Town. It is also a natural and mythological wonderland immortalised in much-loved works by Gerald Durrell and his elder brother Lawrence. Our highlights tour of Corfu Town begins at the Old Fortress, and includes walks along the Venetianbuilt Esplanade and the Old Town’s narrow, stepped streets, taking in Georgian mansions, the red-domed Agios Spyridon Church, housing the remains of Corfu’s patron saint, and the Byzantine Museum in the Church of Panagia Antivouniotissa.
02 OCTOBER KATAKOLON, GREECE / PYLOS, GREECE Though the majority of visitors simply pass through on their way to the more celebrated attraction of Olympia, the small port town of Katakolon is a very pleasant, authentic place to while away an hour or two.
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Corfu Town
INCLUDED EXCURSION
ANCIENT OLYMPIA (Half day, AM) At the ancient site of Olympia stood the Temple of Zeus, housing a famed 40ft-high gold and ivory statue of the god by the Athenian sculptor Phidias, acclaimed as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. It was also here, of course, that the inaugural Olympic Games took place in 776 BC (and every subsequent games until 393 AD). 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. We also visit the Archaeological Museum, with artefacts including the Head of Hera, ornaments from the Temple of Zeus, Praxiteles’ famous statue of Hermes and the helmet of Miltiades.
A leisurely afternoon cruising the Ionian Sea is followed by an early evening arrival in Pylos, perfect for sampling the many fish tavernas which lie a stone’s throw away from where the Aegean Odyssey docks.
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Methoni Castle
03 OCTOBER PYLOS, GREECE Pylos is a treasure trove of historical sites and in 1827 its bay was the site of the Battle of Navarino.
INCLUDED EXCURSION Choice A
ANCIENT MESSINI (Half day, AM) Ancient Messini is regarded by many as one of the best-preserved archaeological sites in Greece and dates back to 146 BC. Take a short drive to the Arcadian Gate and enter this marvellous, archaeological location which includes an almostintact theatre, the ruins of a 3rd-century temple, a time-worn sanctuary and a Byzantine monastery.
Messini
10
INCLUDED EXCURSION Choice B
CASTLES OF SOUTHERN GREECE (Half day, AM) Alternatively, Castles of Southern Greece combines ancient history with a taste of everyday local life. Highlights include 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. In Methoni, beaches of golden sand, winding alleyways and cobbled houses set a peaceful backdrop to the Venetian castle of Methoni.
04 OCTOBER MONEMVASIA, GREECE / HYDRA, GREECE
Monemvasia
Monemvasia dates back to the 6th century and has been called the Gibraltar of Greece. During your time here, you may like to seek out a quiet cafe for a sip of Malmsey, the sweet dessert wine that originated in this atmospheric spot. 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. There will be a free evening ashore, before a late evening sail to Athens.
INCLUDED EXCURSION Choice A
MONEMVASIA WALKING TOUR (Half day, AM) A morning’s thorough exploration of Monemvasia’s beautiful, cobbled 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 (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.
05 OCTOBER ATHENS (PIRAEUS), GREECE Disembark Aegean Odyssey after breakfast. 11
POST-CRUISE ATHENS TOUR Voyages to Antiquity offers a variety of cruise packages, some of which include land touring elements before and/or after the cruise itself. In this case, a two-night stay in Athens.
05 OCTOBER 2018 ATHENS, GREECE
06 OCTOBER ATHENS, GREECE
Disembark the Aegean Odyssey and transfer to Athens and your centrally located hotel via one of the included excursions on offer.
Greece’s capital is an unparalleled treasure-trove of ancient wonders, from the iconic Acropolis and Parthenon to temples, stadia and theatres galore. Gritty and edgy, yet warm and welcoming, modern-day Athens also captivates its visitors.
INCLUDED EXCURSION Choice A
ACROPOLIS & MUSEUM (Half day, AM)
OPTIONAL EXCURSION
The zenith of artistic and architectural achievement in the 5th century BC Athenian ‘Golden Age’, the collection of temples atop the Acropolis is unmissable. The Parthenon takes top billing, but the Erechtheion, the grand Propylaia gateway and the tiny, stunning Temple of Athena Nike also merit attention. Below the temple complex is the Theatre of Dionysos, where the dramas of Aeschylus, Sophocles and Euripides were first performed. The Acropolis Museum is a grand timeline of Acropolis history and artefacts.
NATIONAL ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM - $35 per person (Half day, AM)
INCLUDED EXCURSION Choice B
BYZANTINE ATHENS (Half day, AM) Athens
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Never in the history of Christianity has a school of artists infused such a high degree of spirituality into its work than the Byzantine icon painters and mosaicists. Our alternative excursion reveals the glory of Byzantine art with a visit to the Byzantine Museum, with its extraordinary breadth of exhibits dating from the 4th to the 19th centuies; and the Kaisariani Monastery on the slopes of Mt Hymettos.
Founded at the end of the 19th century to house and protect antiquities from all over Greece, the National Archaeological Museum is an extraordinarily rich repository of ancient art and sculpture. Within its walls are more than 11,000 exhibits, providing a panorama of Greek art from prehistory to late antiquity. Marvel at Cycladic, Minoan, Mycenaean and Classical Greek masterpieces, with standout highlights including the iconic golden mask of Agamemnon, the bronze horse and jockey of Artemision, as well as vibrant Minoan frescoes from Santorini. Also on display are Egyptian and Cypriot antiquities, alongside treasures from the sea including a remarkable 1st century BC instrument for making astronomical calculations, that was uncovered from a shipwreck in Antikythera.
07 OCTOBER ATHENS, GREECE Transfer to Athens International Airport for your flight home.
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 able to meet the activity level.
THE SHORE EXCURSION TEAM Our Shore Excursion Manager and Graduate 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. Motor-coaches 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
Duncan Macmillan
Thomas Mannack
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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.
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 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. Elizabeth Blackadder is the subject of one of a number of monographs he has written on contemporary 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.
THOMAS MANNACK The Classical Art Research Centre, University of Oxford Dr. Thomas Mannack is Reader in Classical Iconography at the University of Oxford where he teaches Greek and Roman Art and Architecture, and has taught Greek Art at King's College, London. He is an internationally known expert on Greek figure-decorated pottery and studied Classical Archaeology, Ancient History and European Archaeology in Kiel, Heidelberg and Oxford. He gained a first class doctorate at Kiel University. Dr Mannack has published books and papers in English and German on Greek pottery, Greek sculpture, and the reception of ancient art. He has been invited to present papers by many universities and academies including New York, Berlin, Tours, Brussels, Munich, Copenhagen, Vienna, Basel and Zurich. In his spare time, Dr. Mannack is passionate about flat German tin figures, which his wife Sigrid hates, and on which he has published two scholarly articles, just to irk her. His daughters, Lilith and Fidelis, have rejected the refined and beautiful field of Classical Archaeology in favour of “Science”, but are occasionally willing to accompany him on cruises (and paint toy figures better than him).
LECTURES VENICE AND VENETIAN ART (Duncan Macmillan)
In Bellini, Titian, Veronese and Tintoretto, Venice produced some of the greatest artists of the Renaissance. Reflecting the unique character of their city, it was above all light and colour that characterised their work. But Venetian art did not end with the Renaissance. With Canaletto, Guardi and other masters, it flowered again in the eighteenth century and the city itself was their subject.
THE SPIRIT OF URBINO (Duncan Macmillan)
Under the Montefeltro Dukes, a true Renaissance court flourished in Urbino. Piero della Francesca worked here and the wonderful clarity and harmony of his painting typifies the spirit of the city. Raphael was also born here and as such Urbino continued to characterise his work, even when he joined Michelangelo as a leader of the High Renaissance in Florence and then Rome.
ARTISTS, TRAVELLERS AND THE REDISCOVERY OF GREECE (Duncan Macmillan)
Greek art and architecture inspired the artists of the Renaissance, but Greece itself was inaccessible until the eighteenth century. Then artists went there to paint and archaeologists to explore the ruins of Antiquity. Greek sculpture and Greek vase painting inspired painters and sculptors, Greek buildings inspired architects. Even in the twentieth century, with the discovery of the Minoans, ancient Greece could still inspire and the great Modernists, Matisse and Picasso, paid it tribute.
HOW ANCIENT GREEK PAINTING PLAYED A PART IN THE RENAISSANCE (Duncan Macmillan) When we think of Greek art we think of sculpture first of all, but for the Greeks themselves, painting was their greatest art. Hardly any survives, but nevertheless, through the Romans, and then the Byzantines (above all in their marvellous mosaics) the great tradition of Greek pictorial art lived on. Contrary to what we have always been taught about the art of the early Italian Renaissance, the continuity is still there as the new art grew out of the old.
DIOCLETIAN'S PALACE IN SPALATO (Thomas Mannack)
Breaking with centuries of tradition, Diocletian and his co-ruler introduced a new system of rule and abdicated to make way for two new Augusti. Diocletian retired to Spalato, where he had a large palace built and also a mausoleum. We shall look at the role of the Roman Emperor before and after Diocletian’s reforms, show what the palace looked like, the history of Mausoleis, and the purpose of having a mausoleum built for a living ruler.
the magnificent temple built in the 460s BC, and reconstruct the appearance of the sporting contests.
ATHENS, BUILDINGS AND POLITICS (Thomas Mannack)
Athens is the best known of all Greek cities and the birth place of a contentious new rule known as Democracy. We shall consider the arts of Athens from the Archaic (old) period (600-480 BC) to the imposing building programmes of the great statesman Perikles, begun in 447 BC, who convinced the people to adorn the Acropolis with the most beautiful buildings of the Classical Period, and endeavour to show the relationship between the arts, architecture and politics.
THE TEMPLE OF ARTEMIS ON CORCYRA (CORFU) AND THE DORIC ORDER (Thomas Mannack) The Archaeological Museum of Corfu houses the sculptures of the earliest preserved Greek stone temple. The lecture will describe the scenes chosen for the pediment and fitted in without regard for scale, the development of the Doric temple, and the deep and meaningful messages broadcast by their decoration.
OLYMPIA, SANCTUARY AND TEMPLE (Thomas Mannack)
Olympia is probably the most famous of all the Greek sanctuaries. The famous Olympic Games in honour of Zeus (and Hera) were held here every four years, beginning in 776 BC. For the duration of the contests all hostilities between the city-states of Greece ceased and most places dated events in Olympiads, blocks of four years. This lecture will describe the sanctuary, its place among the great All-Greek sacred sites,
Split
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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 Colin McEvedy New Penguin Atlas of Ancient History ISBN: 9780140513486, Paperback, £9.99 John Julius Norwich The Middle Sea: A History of the Mediterranean ISBN: 9781844133086, Paperback, £14.99 Edited by John Julius Norwich Venice: A Traveller’s Reader ISBN: 9781472140302, Paperback, £11.99 Judith Martin No Vulgar Hotel ISBN: 9780393330601, Paperback, £17.99 Javier Maria Venice: An Interior ISBN: 9780241248874, Paperback, £5.00 Mark Mazower The Balkans ISBN: 9781842125441, Paperback, £8.99
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Barnaby Rogerson Croatia: Through Writers’ Eyes ISBN: 9780907871897, Paperback, £12.99
Michael Carroll Greece: A Literary Guide for Travellers ISBN: 9781784533809, Hardback, £16.99
Marcus Tanner Croatia: A Nation Forged in War ISBN: 9780300163940, Paperback, £12.99
Jenny March The Penguin Book of Classical Myths ISBN: 9780141020778, Paperback, £12.99
Elizabeth Roberts Realm of the Black Mountain: A History of Montenegro ISBN: 9781850658689, Paperback, £18.99
Edith Hall The Ancient Greeks ISBN: 9780099583646, Paperback, £8.99
Gerald Durrell The Corfu Trilogy ISBN: 9780141028415, Paperback, £14.99 Lawrence Durrell Prospero’s Cell ISBN: 9780571201655, Paperback, £7.99 Robin Lane Fox The Classical World ISBN: 9780141021416, Paperback, £14.99
Plutarch Greek Lives ISBN: 9780199540051, Paperback, £9.99
Mary Beard The Parthenon ISBN: 9781846683497, Paperback, £9.99 James Davidson Courtesans and Fishcakes ISBN: 9780006863434, Paperback, £14.99 Sofka Zinovieff Eurydice Street ISBN: 9781862077508, Paperback, £7.99 Paul Sterry Birds of the Mediterranean ISBN: 9780713663495, Paperback, £19.99
Nigel Spivey Greek Art ISBN: 9780714833682, Paperback, £17.95 Barbara Graziosi The Gods of Olympus ISBN: 9781846683220, Paperback, £9.99 Anthony Everitt The Rise of Athens ISBN: 9780812984989, Paperback, £15.20 ATHENS
FICTION Rachel Cusk Outline ISBN: 9781784702441, Paperback, £8.99 Homer (Robert Fagles Translation) The Odyssey ISBN: 9780140268867, Paperback, £14.99 Ivo Andric The Bridge Over the Drina ISBN: 9781860460586, Paperback, £12.99
Tia Obreht The Tiger’s Wife ISBN: 9780753827406, Paperback, £8.99 Sarah Dunant In the Company of the Courtesan ISBN: 9781844089109, Paperback, £8.99
MAPS & GUIDES Freytag and Berndt Mediterranean Cruise Map ISBN: 9783707912906, £8.99 Eyewitness Cruise Guide to Europe ISBN: 9781409370222, Paperback, £15.99 Marco Polo Pocket Guide with Map Athens ISBN: 9783829707077, Paperback, £9.99 Athens: The Hidden Gems ISBN: 9781326057336, Paperback, £7.99 Marco Polo Pocket Guide with Map
Greece: Mainland ISBN: 9783829707305, Paperback, £6.99 Marco Polo Pocket Guide with Map Corfu ISBN: 9783829706643, Paperback, £6.99 Croatia Culture Smart ISBN: 9781857334593, Paperback, £6.95 Marco Polo Pocket Guide with Map Dubrovnik & Dalmatian Coast ISBN: 9783829706568, Paperback, £6.99 Marco Polo Pocket Guide with Map Montenegro ISBN: 9783829707565, Paperback, £7.99 Eyewitness Venice and the Veneto ISBN: 9781465467980, Paperback, £15.20 Jonglex & Zoffoli Secret Venice ISBN: 9782361951016, Paperback, £13.99 Venice 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 TART 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
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AWARD-WINNING ENRICHMENT Voyages to Antiquity operates the most culturally immersive cruise programme, with internationally renowned guest speakers, a comprehensive selection of expertly-designed shore excursions in every major port of call, an extensive on-board library and a host of other enrichment elements from reading lists prepared by Blackwell’s of Oxford and on-board book clubs to exclusive private visits and local entertainment. EXPERT GUEST LECTURERS 2-3 guest speakers, pre-eminent in their profession and expert in their field, accompany every departure. 6-9 talks per cruise, 45 minutes each, is the norm, often focusing
WINNER
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on history, archaeology, art and mythology, but also on more unusual subjects such as botany and viticulture. Talks are delivered in the Ambassador Lounge with a host of visual aids (music, video and high quality maps) and recorded so passengers can catch up at their leisure if they are not able to attend in person. These guest lectures are specifically designed to complement shore excursions, not simply repeat or pre-empt the insight presented by the excellent local guides. SHORE EXCURSIONS AND PRIVATE VISITS More than 90% of Voyages to Antiquity’s shore excursions are included in the cruise fare. We use the best available guides, coaches and land agents, and excursions are meticulously planned, well-paced
and guided in English. QuietVox sets are issued to all guests, enabling them to hear the guide’s commentary even as they linger to take photographs or make their own explorations. The core shore excursion programme is complemented with exclusive private visits, such as that to the Palazzo Gangi in Palermo where the sumptuous ballroom scenes of Visconti’s The Leopard were filmed. EVERYDAY ENRICHMENT Aboard or ashore, every day brings enrichment opportunities. The Daily Journal details lectures and excursions, but also local cultural performances, musical concerts, wine tastings, interactive classes and fun quizzes. Aegean Odyssey’s library, surely the biggest in terms of books-to-passenger ratio, houses hundreds of volumes specially selected by Blackwell’s of Oxford to complement the itinerary programme, along with maps, guidebooks, the latest popular fiction, classics and poetry. In this guide, we provide passengers with a recommended reading list, also prepared by Blackwell’s.
or aperitif in one of several comfortable bars before dinner, and appreciate the music of the resident pianist or string trio afterwards. ATHENA HEALTH SPA Pampering opportunities abound at the Athena Health Spa, with its full menu of revitalising therapies and treatments including massages and facials. The adjoining fitness centre awaits those seeking to stay active, saunas and steam rooms are available, and nail and hair treatments are provided at the beauty centre.
AT YOUR SERVICE Always serving with a smile, our crew will win your hearts. Your cabin steward will refresh your stateroom before you even realise you need it. Your waiter will remember whether you take tea or coffee, and the barman whether you like your martini shaken or stirred. They and the rest of our officers and crew are dedicated to making your cruise a delightful experience.
... AND REFRESHMENT FOR BODY AS WELL AS MIND Small ship though she is, Aegean Odyssey offers plenty of other amenities to enhance your time aboard and occupy relaxing days at sea. Unwind on the sun deck's padded wooden loungers and cool off with a splash in the outdoor pool; enjoy a cocktail
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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.
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THE 2018/19 CRUISE COLLECTION
Cruise guides are available to download from our website voyagestoantiquity.com approximately 90 days prior to departure