Mediterranean Grand Voyage

Some of the best moments of cruising are the days spent at sea where you can relax and enjoy the wonderful programme of events and activities we have planned for you.

The vibrant 9th-century port town of La Coruña, on the Iberian Peninsula, is a delicate combination of old and new architecture, with the shimmering glass of modern buildings prompting the local’s to nickname it ‘The Crystal City’ juxtaposed against the deeply historical medieval district; rich in Galician culture, history, gastronomy and natural beauty. The centrepiece of this region is the Santiago de Compostela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where it is said the Relics of James the Apostle are buried – an incentive for the pilgrims who make the journey along the Camino de Santiago each year. From climbing up the world’s oldest working lighthouse to exploring the small collection of immaculate bays, La Coruña’s many treasures make this a town worth discovering.

Some of the best moments of cruising are the days spent at sea where you can relax and enjoy the wonderful programme of events and activities we have planned for you.

One of Europe’s oldest cities, Cádiz is known for its palm trees, ancient buildings and maritime history. The Old Town is home to the striking 18th century Cádiz Cathedral and over 100 watchtowers, as well as traditional Tapas bars. Tapa derives from ‘cover’, where one legend has it that bartenders would cover drinks with a saucer to keep out the dust created by the breeze in the city, and would add little treats of olives and ham to entice customers to visit again. Tapas are best served with a glass of Spanish wine from Jerez de la Frontera.

Some of the best moments of cruising are the days spent at sea where you can relax and enjoy the wonderful programme of events and activities we have planned for you.

An archipelago of islands and islets, The Balearic Islands are located near the coast of the Iberian Peninsula, and all have a Mediterranean climate. While some parts of Ibiza are well known for their buzzing nightlife, Ibiza Town offers many cultural attractions, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The fascinating architecture of the fortified town of Dalt Vila is housed within the Renaissance built city walls, reached by winding cobbled streets.

Away from the tourist area of San Antonio, the west coast of Ibiza is renowned for the beauty of its golden-sand coves and beaches, sprawling vineyards, olive and carob trees, and enchanting whitewashed villages. A number of historic churches – such as the ancient San Agustín’s church – and fortifications stand proudly as the west coast’s architectural highlights. Seeing the sun rise or set here is an iconic experience.

A beautiful city full of history, with sandy beaches and a lively marina, Barcelona is capital city of Catalunya – a region with its own unique traditions and culture. Famous for many UNESCO-listed buildings by Gaudi, including the impressive Sagrada Familia – still in construction since building started in 1882, with 18 towers, each of special significance. The city is also home to the iconic football club, FC Barcelona, located at Camp Nou.

Synonymous with Spain, the delicious paella rice dish originated in Valencia and was originally known as arroz a la Valencia, which takes its name from the pan it is cooked in, typically large, round and shallow. Believed to have been created in the 15th century for Valencian farmers working in the rice fields using ingredients local to their surroundings; nowadays it is popular with chicken or seafood. Close by is Albufera Natural Park – an important stopover for migratory birds.

An iconic Ibiza beach, Benirras is renowned for its cove of white sand, with turquoise seas and craggy rocks that surround the bay – the perfect setting for sunsets and sunrises on the White Island. It’s also possible to see Cape Bernat, a rocky islet set out to sea from Benirras Beach, and the subject of countless legends, where it’s known locally as ‘the finger of God’, guardian of the sunset, or Es Cavall Bernat, translated as ‘the horse Bernat’.

Located on the east coast of Menorca, Mahón is the largest city on the island and has a maze of narrow streets lined with Georgian architecture, including buildings with sash windows and balconies. The city has a sheltered harbour, full of islets and coves, which are home to the protected Mediterranean pillow coral.

Positioned on the island’s south-west coast at the head of the Valinco Gulf, Propriano is a traditional Corsican town, with a charming harbour and marina area. There are many 19th century buildings in the town, along with remains from Roman and Greek settlements. Close by is the scenic town of Sartene, with houses so tall they seem to be carved from the rockface, but also renowned for its highly rated wine, of which Rose is the most popular.

The charming city of La Spezia, located on the Ligurain coast of Italy, offers a colourful blend of maritime heritage, natural beauty and culture. Known for its strategic maritime importance, the naval base here was reconstructed after it was decimated in World War Two, and still produces naval warships for the Italian Navy. The tranquil bay in La Spezia is known as the “Gulf of Poets”, and has inspired many writers and poets, including Lord Byron and Mary Shelley. The city is also gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cinque Terre, with its beautifully coloured villages perched on rugged cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

Some of the best moments of cruising are the days spent at sea where you can relax and enjoy the wonderful programme of events and activities we have planned for you.

Perfectly located between the Amalfi Coast and Cilento National Park, Salerno is an often overlooked destination in the Campania region. With centuries of rich history, influenced by the Romans, Goths and Byazantines, there are many churches and authentic trattorias laced through the towns narrow cobbled streets. The 11th century cathedral in Salerno is the city’s most important church, and has an abundance of artefacts dedicated to Saint Matthew, with stunning artwork on its ceilings and walls.

Best known for having one of the most iconic coastlines in Italy, and listed as a UNESCO Heritage Site in 1997, the Amalfi Coast is painted with rocky shores, golden beaches and picture-perfect towns perched at the top of craggy cliffs, which when cruised past during the eveningtime, throws beautiful shadows and sunset light across the region. Passing the island of Capri, the Roman Imperial Palace Ruins of Villa Jovis are perched on a high peninsula, and the island of Procida has remained untouched for many years, allowing it to hold on to its rustic charm.

The southern Italian city of Naples dates to the 2nd millennium BC, and boasts centuries of volcanic drama, art and architecture all robustly perched on the Bay of Naples. Go beyond the ruggedness and a city of breathtaking frescoes, elegant sculptures and superb panoramas can be uncovered. Naples’ centro storico (historic centre) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its cache of archaeological treasures are among the most important globally. The Duomo di San Gennaro cathedral is filled with sublime frescoes, while the lavish Royal Palace and Castel Nuovo ensure a spot for Italy’s third largest city on any must-see list.

Sorrento’s rugged cliffs line the Amalfi Coast above the topaz-hued waters, where it is possible to see Capri Island and Mount Vesuvius across the Bay of Naples. Many of the town’s structures date back to Roman times, including St. Francis Monastery and the Basilica di Sant’Antonio. Nearby is Pompeii, the best-preserved ancient Roman city in the world, famously destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79AD.

The coastal port of Civitavecchia is gateway to the Eternal City of Rome, so named because ancient Romans believed that no matter what happened to the world, the city would go on forever. Alongside the many inviting trattoria in Rome, there are many deeply historical structures, including the imposing Colosseum, Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain. From Rome, the holy Vatican City is easily accessible and is home to His Holiness, the Pope.

Situated just north of Sicily, Stromboli Island is one of the smallest Aeolian Islands, but arguably the most famous thanks to its intense volcanic activity. One of Europe’s most active volcanos after Mount Etna, Stromboli has been erupting for over 2,000 years and almost non-stop since 1932. The island’s eruptions are so distinctive that geologists use ‘Strombolian’ to describe similar eruptions around the world.

Located between the eastern tip of Sicily and the western tip of Calabria, the Strait of Messina separates mainland Italy with the island of Sicily with its narrowest point measuring just one nautical mile. The strait is home to strong tidal currents and a unique marine ecosystem, with a natural whirlpool at the northernmost point of the strait, said to be linked to the Greek legends of Scylla and Charybdis. Sailing through the Straits during the eveningtime offers the chance to experience the sun setting beyond the horizon from the comfort of your cruise ship.

Some of the best moments of cruising are the days spent at sea where you can relax and enjoy the wonderful programme of events and activities we have planned for you.

Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor has towering peaks and a rocky coastline dotted with waterside towns. The Orjen Mountains to the west and the Lovćen mountains to the east, surround this bay of water; where there are many architectural and natural sites, including the Saint George Benedictine Monastery on the waters edge and the twin islands of St George and Our Lady of the Rocks, both of which are religious pilgrimage sites.

Located on the beautiful Bay of Kotor, the town of the same name is one of the best-preserved Medieval towns in the Adriatic. Kotor has ancient architecture that’s displayed in Venetian palaces and Romanesque churches, earning itself a listing as a UNESCO World Natural and Historical Heritage Site. The winding cobbled streets are also home to numerous museums, including the Maritime Museum which explores the town’s maritime history.

Some of the best moments of cruising are the days spent at sea where you can relax and enjoy the wonderful programme of events and activities we have planned for you.

Known as the ‘town of a hundred suns’ and the oldest town in Slovenia, Koper has unforgettable sea views, extensive vineyards and olive groves. After the Second World War, Koper became part of Yugoslavia, but then regained independence in 1991, and officially became part of Slovenia. The spectacular Lake Bled, nominated as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, is close by and is considered one of the most picturesque spots in the country.

St. Anthony’s Channel is a scenic and narrow stretch of water close to the historic town of Sibenik on the Adriatic coast of Croatia. Renowned for its picturesque surroundings and lush greenery along its banks, it also offers fantastic views of St. Nicolas’ Fortress from the decks of your cruise ship as you sail past. At the entrance to the channel you will also see a Franciscan monastery dedicated to St. Anthony.

Lesser known than the beautiful cities of Split and Dubrovnik, Sibenik offers all of the quintessential delights that can be expected from destinations situated on Croatia’s glorious Adriatic Coast. Sibenik is situated within one of the best-protected harbours found in the Adriatic region, and boasts spectacular surrounding landscapes, while the city itself has typically Croatian scenes of white-washed, terracotta-topped buildings hinting at the treasures awaiting discovery ashore. Wander the steeply-angled streets and squares framed by a mix of centuries-old architectural gems, including the impressive town hall, the churches of St Barbara and St Fran, and the Cathedral Sveti Jakov. Built in the early 15th century, UNESCO-listed Sveti Jakov is considered one of Croatia’s finest and most important Renaissance-era landmarks.

Situated on the Dalmatian Coast, Split is famous for its beaches and magnificent Riva Waterfront. However, just a 10 minute walk away is the pedestrianised old town, protected by the walls of the UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace. The cobbled streets are full of alleys and courtyards, where perfectly preserved examples of Roman architecture can be found, including St. Dominus Cathedral, the Vestibule and Narodni Trg – The People’s Square.

Mount Biokovo is part of the Dinaric Alps, which extend along the coast of the Adriatic Sea, and is characterised by its dramatic limestone cliffs, deep ravines and lush vegetation. It is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna and is a protected area within the Biokovo Nature Park, where preserving the environment is paramount. Two strictly protected bird species who visit here are the peregrine falcon and golden eagle, who nest on the cliffs annually. The mountain overlooks the charming Makarska Riviera, with its peaceful bays and beaches, and red-roofed houses standing on the waters edge.

Known as the ‘Pearl of the Adriatric’, Dubrovnik is nestled between the mountains and sea on Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast. The deeply historic city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and still has magnificent medieval walls surrounding it, protecting monuments from the Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque periods. The pedestrianised Old Town is full of narrow cobbled streets leading to the 14th century Dominican Monastery, which houses rare books and manuscripts.

Some of the best moments of cruising are the days spent at sea where you can relax and enjoy the wonderful programme of events and activities we have planned for you.

Capital of the beautiful Ionian island of Kefallonia, Argostoli is home to the unusually shaped Saint Theodoroi Lighthouse – located on a man-made peninsular, it has 20 columns around the base, and was rebuilt in 1960 after the original, and much of the town, was devastated by an earthquake. Argostoli has the perfect Mediterranean climate for loggerhead turtles, which can be seen swimming around the waters of the nearby Koutavos Lagoon.

A Greek gem, Zakynthos (or Zante as it’s also known) showcases a coastline of quite unparalleled beauty. Azure seas are framed by golden sands, steep limestone cliffs and intriguing sea caves. Home to loggerhead sea turtles who come to the surrounding islands to nest, it’s also famous for Navagio (or Shipwreck) Beach, which consistently comes up in the list of the world’s best beaches, and is where the MV Panagiotis ran aground in the 1980’s. Marooned on the shore, it adds a touch of mystery to the coastline which you’ll marvel at from your smaller ship.

Located in southern Greece, Kalamata is a vibrant city best known for the production of Kalamata olives, a local speciality grown in nearby olive groves and considered to be some of the finest in the world. The city has a picturesque waterfront with tavernas and cafes overlooking the Messenian Gulf, where fresh seafood, moussaka and souvlaki are popular dishes, along with tasty Greek salads using the local olives and high-quality olive oil. Kalamata’s Old Town is located just below the castle, full of tiny alleyways and charming neoclassical houses. The castle itself was first built in the 13th century, and subsequently rebuilt after it was destroyed by the Venetians; and the Benakeion Archaeological Museum showcases artefacts that offer insight into the rich history of the region.

Having long served as gateway to the Ancient city of Athens, Piraeus has an attractive marina area. However, it is generally used to visit Athens, which has been continuously occupied since the fifth century B.C. Important landmarks here include the Acropolis, the hilltop citadel overlooking the city, also home to the Parthenon Temple and the Temple of Zeus. Close by is the Panathenaic Stadium, originally built as a racetrack in 330 B.C but has been completely rebuilt and is open to the public.

Perched on a cliff edge, Thira is the main town on the stunning Greek island of Santorini and offers panoramic views of the caldera. The town is characterised by its white-washed buildings with blue domes cascading down the volcanic cliffs, contrasting with the azure waters of the Aegean Sea. Narrow winding streets and picturesque squares are home to a vibrant atmosphere of restaurants and cafes, where fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes are accompanied by crisp Assyrtiko wine. Santorini’s crescent-shaped volcanic caldera was formed by a volcanic eruption 3,600 years ago, and close by is Akrotiri, a Bronze Age settlement preserved by volcanic ash.

Surrounded by the sea on three sides and with red-rock cliffs on the other, Agios Nikolaos is a picturesque town in Crete. One of its main landmarks, situated in the heart of the town, is Lake Voulismeni – said to be where the Goddesses Athena and Artemis would bathe. Agios Nikolaos also proudly displays the Horn of Almathea statue, marking the connection that Zeus had with the sea.

Largest of the Greek Dodecanese islands, Rhodes importance as a maritime city rose after the death of Alexander the Great in 332BC when the navy was robust and economy thrived. Today, there are still examples of these ancient time, including the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town and the wonderfully preserved Acropolis which overlooks the town. The island is also famed for its delicious honey, and the local mountains provide many varieties of ingredients to ensure the honey from Rhodes tastes the best.

Located on the Aegean coast of Turkey, Bodrum is known for its rich history, beautiful beaches and bustling marina lined with yachts. Local cuisine is a delightful mix of Mediterranean and Turkish dishes, where flavoursome meze and fresh seafood are popular, along with Pide – Turkish pizza – and sweet-tasting Baklava. The town is peppered with historical landmarks such as Bodrum Castle, built in the 15th century, now home to the Museum of Underwater Archaeology; and the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, a monumental tomb erected in honour of notable Persian governor Mausolus, and renowned as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The hills surrounding the town are awash with historical windmills, iconic to the region’s landscape, providing a scenic backdrop.

Known for being a beach resort on Turkey’s Aegean coast, Kusadasi is also the starting point for the UNESCO World Heritage Site at Ephesus, one of the country’s best preserved ancient cities. Close by is the city of Miletus, said to be the birthplace of Cartography. Built in 1495, The Belediye Hamamı Kusadasi is the only traditional Turkish steam bath in the region.

Some of the best moments of cruising are the days spent at sea where you can relax and enjoy the wonderful programme of events and activities we have planned for you.

Situated in north-western Turkey, Istanbul is seen as the place where east meets west, with a cultural diversity stretching back over centuries. Historically known as both Byzantine and Constantinople, it has seen many ancient empires. Skyscrapers sit alongside traditional and historical structures, such as the Blue Mosque – an iconic landmark in the city, and a fully functioning religious site. Istanbul is also home to the Grand Bazaar, the renowned maze of souqs, located under beautifully decorated ceilings.

Some of the best moments of cruising are the days spent at sea where you can relax and enjoy the wonderful programme of events and activities we have planned for you.

The instantly recognizable 16th century walls and Grand Harbour of Valletta have seen many conflicts, and its diverse architecture is testament to them. Influences from the Romans, Greeks, Crusaders and British are evident in the various churches and palaces. Most noteworthy are the National War Museum, housing many military artefacts and the Casa Rocca Piccola Palace. Located in the north of the island is the silent city of Mdina, home to the Roman burial complex of St. Paul’s Catacombs.

Some of the best moments of cruising are the days spent at sea where you can relax and enjoy the wonderful programme of events and activities we have planned for you.

Malaga is a city that is rich in history and culture – located on the shores of the Mediterranean, it is the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, and his childhood spent here is reflected in many of the recurring themes of his paintings, including flamenco and bulls. Known as the olive capital of the world, the Andalusian region accounts for 35% of the olives produced in the EU and are closely monitored by officials from the regional government.

The British Overseas Territory of Gibraltar is dominated by The Rock, a 426m-high limestone ridge, home to the mischievous Barbary apes, which are hugely entertaining but must be remembered that they are still wild animals. Elsewhere, the town is resolutely British, with red pillar boxes, helmeted police officers, traditional pubs and even Marks & Spencer. The waters surrounding Gibraltar are also a haven for various cetaceans, including three species of dolphin.

One of Lisbon’s most iconic monuments, the Cristo Rei – Statue of Christ – stands tall over the Tejo Estuary, and was inspired by the equally iconic Christ the Redeemer Statue in Rio de Janeiro. It overlooks the 25 de Abril Bridge, Europe’s longest suspension bridge, which connects Lisbon with the Almada municipality. Based on the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, it was named to remember the Portuguese Carnation Revolution on 25th April 1974.

Where the Tagus – the longest river in the Iberian Peninsula – meets the Atlantic Ocean, Lisbon is spread along the shores of both riverbanks, connected by the iconic Ponte 25 de Abril Bridge. Belém Tower is a World Heritage Site tower that was originally built here to defend the city before it was transformed into a lighthouse and customs house. Close by is the renowned Discovery Monument, representing the prow of a caravel – led by Prince Henry the Navigator and other prodigious Portuguese pioneers.

Overlooking the River Tagus, Portugal’s capital city offers an abundance of maritime highlights, including the iconic Ponte de Abril Suspension Bridge, and the UNESCO-listed Belém Tower, which served as an embarkation and disembarkation point for Vasco de Gama and other Portuguese explorers. The delicious pastéis de nata are also not to be missed when visiting Lisbon, particularly when sampled at the original bakery, which opened in 1837.

Some of the best moments of cruising are the days spent at sea where you can relax and enjoy the wonderful programme of events and activities we have planned for you.