Lost Empires of the Mediterranean
A springtime voyage from Malta to Lisbon aboard the MS Serenissima with Guest Speaker George Hart
- 26 April 2020
Join us for this relaxing and informative voyage to some of the greatest historic cities, ancient sites and charming islands as we explore the Mediterranean and all its wonders from aboard the MS Serenissima. Our journey is perfectly timed to take advantage of the gentle temperatures and for us to witness the coast and islands at their springtime best before the crowds of summer arrive. Sailing from Malta we make our way to Sicily with its incredible wealth of treasures and, over the course of three days we will visit timelessly beautiful Syracuse, the spectacular Greek theatre in Taormina and the Norman Royal Palace in Palermo. Following a day at sea to relax we have included some interesting calls on the North African coast including the ancient city of Tipaza in Algeria and Melilla, the fascinating Spanish city on the northern coast of Morocco. Continuing on to mainland Spain, we will visit the naval port of Cartagena with its fine Roman remains and the great maritime city of Cadiz from where we will explore the beautiful city of Seville.
The itinerary has been carefully designed to combine some ‘must see’ sites together with some smaller places that are totally unsuitable for vessels larger than ours. Owing to the fact that our small ship can moor centrally, we have the added advantage of being able to access the towns by foot in many ports of call and we have also included time at leisure for individual exploration enabling you to soak up the atmosphere at your own pace. We have the added benefit of excellent local guides and our knowledgeable Guest Speaker who will add much to your experience and knowledge of this fascinating region. Enjoy discovering ancient cities and sites, timeless islands with their aura of history and spectacular beauty which will capture our hearts as we travel a less well trodden path across the Mediterranean.
Useful links & Travel Advice
Please find a selection of useful websites to refer to for information from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, on visa requirements, NHS travel health advice and other useful travel tips.
Serenissima
The charming MS Serenissima began her career as the Harald Jarl, cruising the Norwegian coastline and fjords. Since 2003, when she was extensively renovated, she has been operating as a classic cruise ship. Previously known as the MS Andrea, she was upgraded again in 2013 and started her new life as the MS Serenissima. With her small size she can navigate into small, remote ports inaccessible to the big cruise ships and appears an impressive sight when moored. With her fleet of Zodiacs, she is capable of both destination and expedition cruising.
Itinerary
Day 1 - London to Valletta, Malta.
Fly by scheduled flight and on arrival we will transfer to the MS Serenissima. Enjoy Welcome Dinner and Drinks as we sail this evening.
Day 2 - Syracuse, Sicily.
Syracuse was founded by the Greeks in 734 BC and by the 5th century was a political and military power throughout the Mediterranean rivalling Athens as the largest and most beautiful city in the Greek world. On leaving the vessel we visit the Neapolis Archaeological Park where we find a well preserved Greek theatre with seats carved from limestone. Paradise Quarry, now an attractive garden and orange grove, was the primary source of that limestone and is the site of the curious ‘Dionysius’ Ear’, a vast grotto with an amplifying resonance. We will continue to explore the island of Ortigia where we find the Temple of Apollo, considered to be Sicily’s most ancient Doric temple and the Baroque Cathedral, erected over the remains of the Temple of Minerva. The afternoon and evening are free to explore independently before we sail tonight.
Day 3 - Taormina.
From the nearby port of Messina we will visit Taormina, a walled town lying in the shadow of Mount Etna, Europe’s highest volcano. The town has been a popular tourist destination since the 19th century and our guided tour will include walking the characteristic alleys before viewing the 15th century Palazzo Corvaja and the impressive Greek Theatre from where there are marvellous views over the town and coast. For those who wish to enjoy longer here, you will be able to take lunch independently in one of the local restaurants and spend an afternoon exploring at leisure before our coach returns to Messina. Alternatively, return to the MS Serenissima for lunch and enjoy free time in Messina before we sail this evening.
Day 4 - Palermo.
Arrive this morning in the Sicilian capital of Palermo. After breakfast we will explore the city, famous for its jumbled and picturesque streets punctuated with ornate Baroque churches, domed Arab mosques and the glittering Byzantine mosaics that reveal a unique and diverse heritage. We visit the impressive 12th century cathedral which houses the royal tombs of Henri VI and King Ruggiero. Return to the MS Serenissima for lunch and this afternoon either enjoy some time to explore independently or join an excursion to Monreale Cathedral, said to be the most beautiful Norman Church in Italy, designed and completed by William the Good in 1174. With its thick walls and powerful towers, the exterior looks like an austere fortress yet it is the interior of this great cathedral which is its crowning glory. Here the large nave, with its side aisles and grey granite columns sets off the exquisite Byzantine mosaics on the walls above the arches.
Day 5 - Cagliari, Sardinia.
Spend the morning at sea as we sail to Sardinia arriving over lunch. This afternoon we will explore the Sardinian capital of Cagliari, an ancient city which dates back to the Phoenicians and Romans. On a walking tour we will stroll around the old town with its narrow streets running along a steep hillside. See the terraced Piazza del Palazzo and the 14th century Cathedral of St Mary. Alternatively, drive along the south-western coast to reach Nora which was founded by the Phoenicians but also has Carthaginian and Roman ruins. After a period of Roman prosperity, there was a decline and in the 3rd century AD the city was engulfed by the sea. Still visible today are the remains of Carthaginian warehouses and various Roman buildings including the baths with splendid mosaics and the theatre.
Day 6 - At Sea.
Enjoy a lecture or spend some time on deck as we have a day of cruising.
Day 7 - Algiers, Algeria.
Depart this morning for the ancient city of Tipaza which was probably founded by the Phoenicians but really came into being under the Romans. The city was extended by Emperor Claudius and grew wealthy on Mediterranean trade. It was built on three small hills, which overlooked the sea. There are ruins of three Basilicas, two Cemeteries, the Baths, the Theatre, the Nymphaeum and the unusual oval shaped Amphitheatre. We will enjoy a typical Algerian lunch before continuing to the mysterious Mausoleum of Mauretania, which lies in the hills above the sea about 18 kilometres away from Tipaza. It is one of the most breathtaking sights in Algeria. The vast pyramid-like structure is named the Tomb of the Christian on account of the large crosses that decorate the tomb which predates Jesus Christ. We return to the ship via the Martyrs‘ Monument which offers spectacular views over the city.
Day 8 - Cartagena, Spain.
After a morning at sea we arrive at the Murcian port of Cartagena. We will enter the deep natural harbour through two fortified rocky headlands for an afternoon of exploration in this historic city that dates back to the Phoenicians. Hannibal used it as his capital city on the Iberian peninsula and named it after Carthage in North Africa whilst the Romans used it as a strategic port and administrative centre. The city walls remained intact until the 20th century, creating a dense historic centre which we will explore before taking the lift or walking up to Concepcion Castle where we will learn of the city’s past and enjoy amazing views of the city and harbour below. We will also see the Roman theatre which was able to hold up to 7000 people. For those wishing to explore further, perhaps visit the archaeological site of Molinete, where work continues to uncover the Roman city, the naval museum or simply enjoy a stroll along the tree-lined harbour promenade before we sail this evening.
Day 9 - Melilla.
This morning we visit a little bit of Spain in North Africa. Situated on the northern coast of Morocco, the Spanish city occupies a rocky peninsula which juts out into the Mediterranean. It has been in Spanish hands since 1497 and previous colonisers included the Phoenicians, Greeks and Romans. It is a fascinating place to spend a few hours observing the co-existence of Catholic and Muslim faiths, the influences of Spanish and Moorish architecture and the old walled city, fortress and busy market place. Return to the ship for lunch and an afternoon at sea.
Day 10 - Cadiz for Seville.
Arrive this morning in Cadiz. Situated on a peninsula jutting out into a bay and almost entirely surrounded by water, it is amongst the oldest surviving cities in Spain having been founded by the Phoenicians in 1100 BC and later occupied by the Carthaginians, Romans, Visigoths and Moors. Choose to join a half-day guided panoramic and walking tour which will pass by the most beautiful monuments and landmarks of the city including Santo Domingo Church and the Santa Catalina Fortress and also visit the interior of the Cathedral of Cadiz and Diocesan Museum in the old city. After lunch on board the afternoon is free to explore independently. Alternatively, take a full day tour to Seville which will include time at the Alcazar with its exotic terraced garden. Built by Pedro the Cruel in the 14th century with the help of Moorish craftsmen, it is still used as a residence by the King of Spain. Also see the Christian cathedral, reputed to be the largest Gothic style church in the world.
Day 11 - Portimao, Portugal.
Over breakfast the MS Serenissima arrives on the Algarve Coast at the fishing port of Portimao on the banks of the Arade River. During a morning call we head west to explore the more rugged Algarve and discover its place in history. We visit the historic town of Lagos, its sturdy Medieval walls testifying to its importance as a 15th century shipbuilding and trading post. We then head to the wild headland of Cabo Sao Vicente, its 200-foot cliffs face the Atlantic waves and it lies at the extreme southwestern corner of Europe. At nearby Sagres, Henry the Navigator built his school of navigation and it was from here that many sailors set out to discover the New World.
Day 12 - Lisbon to London.
Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London.
Dates and Prices
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £200 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY
Prices per person based on double occupancy
| 26 April to 7 May 2020 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| 2 Standard Stateroom | £5195 | £4995 |
| 3 Classic Stateroom | £5495 | £5295 |
| 4 Superior Stateroom | £5795 | £5595 |
| 5 Deluxe Stateroom | £5995 | £5795 |
| 6 Junior Suite | £6395 | £6195 |
| 7 Owner’s Suite | £6995 | £6795 |
| 8 Serenissima Suite | £6995 | £6795 |
| 10 Standard Single | £5995 | £5795 |
Tour Reference Code: SCSE260420
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class air travel • 11 nights aboard the MS Serenissima on a full board basis • House wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner on board • Noble Caledonia onboard team • Shore excursions • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance, visa.
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Deckplan
Serenissima
The charming MS Serenissima began her career as the Harald Jarl, cruising the Norwegian coastline and fjords. Since 2003, when she was extensively renovated, she has been operating as a classic cruise ship. Previously known as the MS Andrea, she was upgraded again in 2013 and started her new life as the MS Serenissima. With her small size she can navigate into small, remote ports inaccessible to the big cruise ships and appears an impressive sight when moored. With her fleet of Zodiacs, she is capable of both destination and expedition cruising.
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For your comfort
For your comfort
There are so few ships of this generation still cruising and MS Serenissima is a great testament to her present and previous owners that they have seen fit to invest considerable sums over the years to keep her in top form and complying with the stringent health and safety requirements. There is a doctor onboard and during your voyage you will have the opportunity to visit the Captain and Officers on the bridge.
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Ship Directory
Ship Directory
Please find below further details pertaining to the vessel or click on the booklet to download.
We are delighted to have had the MS Serenissima on long term charter since 2013. There are so few ships of her generation still cruising and she is is a great testament to her owners who invest considerable sums to keep her on top form. At the end of 2018 she underwent a refurbishment which included both of the lounges. MS Serenissima is a charming vessel and one of her best known and loved features is her unique style.
The vessel is equipped with a fleet of Zodiac landing craft allowing us to visit remote places where normal tender arrangements are not possible. The Captain, Officers, Expedition Staff, and crew offer a first class service and have been selected for their professionalism and caring attitudes. The atmosphere on board is warm and welcoming and dedicated to discovery and relaxation.
We hope this information booklet answers any questions you may have pertaining to the vessel and wish you a pleasant voyage.
AIR-CONDITIONING
The ship is air conditioned throughout. Please note that only the Serenissima Suites have individually controlled air-conditioning.
ALTERATIONS TO THE SCHEDULE
Our planned schedule may be changed at short notice due to weather conditions or technical reasons. Should there be any alterations the Captain or Cruise Director will inform you of any changes.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
The ship uses a public address system to advise guests of all important information and activities during the cruise. Announcements can be heard throughout the public areas of the ship and in all cabins.
CABINS
The cabins are attractively designed for comfort and convenience. There are eight different grades of cabins arranged over five decks, and all staterooms feature either windows or portholes. Windows and portholes do not open in the cabins/suites, except for the Serenissima Suites (numbers 701 – 704) which have a window and a balcony door which opens out onto the balcony.
Facilities include: • Air conditioning (please note that only the Serenissima Suites have individually controlled air-conditioning) • Dressing table with chair or stool • En-suite bathroom with shower, (please note cabins 601-605 and 507 have a bath with shower attachment) • Hairdryer • Mini Bar (Serenissima Suites only) • Balcony (Serenissima Suites only) • Robe and slippers • Safe • Flat screen television • Telephone (charges apply) • Wardrobe • Wi-Fi access – You will require your own laptop, tablet or smartphone (charges apply).
COMMUNICATION
In case you wish to contact the ship, please call + 47 2367 4607. This is a Norwegian telephone number so calls will be charged at an international rate. The ship can also be contacted by Email: cruise@msserenissima.com (please indicate passenger name and cabin number as the subject).
The telephone system for ship to shore functions is via satellite and charged at €7 Euros per minute for outgoing calls. Please be advised of the following for internal communication:
Cabin to cabin: dial cabin number International line: dial 000+ code of the country + telephone number Reception: dial 800 Doctor: dial 331 or 332
DAILY PROGRAMME
A Daily Programme, detailing the following day’s arrangements as well as any specific information about the day’s activities is produced onboard and delivered to your cabin each evening during the turn down service.
DINING, DRINKING AND DIETARY REQUIREMENTS
The Venice Restaurant onboard serves international cuisine and accommodates all guests at a single open seating. Tables seat 4 to 10 diners. In addition, there is an outside dining area for when the weather and itinerary permit. Breakfast and lunch are both buffet style, dinner is waiter service only. Complimentary (red and white) house wine, beer and soft drinks are included with lunch and dinner. Bar drinks and other beverages with meals are not included; these may be purchased onboard and paid for at the end of your cruise. Complimentary tea and coffee are available 24 hours a day at the tea and coffee station located in the Andrea lounge.
Please advise of any special dietary requests such as vegetarian, vegan, low salt, low cholesterol, gluten free, lactose intolerant to Noble Caledonia (in writing) in advance and we recommend that you also reconfirm with your Cruise Director and Maitre D’ once on board. We regret that the ship is unable to guarantee special requests and is not equipped to prepare or serve kosher or halal cuisine.
DISABLED FACILITIES
The ship can accommodate passengers with mobility restrictions and wheelchair dependent passengers in cabin 407, which has a wider door. There is a lift serving decks 3 to 6, but there is no stair lift.
DISEMBARKATION
Your Cruise Director will provide you with disembarkation information prior to the end of your cruise.
DRESS CODE
During the day, comfortable and casual attire is appropriate. The evenings are smart casual (e.g. a shirt and trousers for gentlemen and a skirt/trousers and blouse for ladies). There will be a Welcome and Farewell dinner, so you may like to bring something a little dressier for these events, for example, gentlemen may wish to wear a jacket and tie, and ladies a dress or trouser suit. Black tie is not required.
DOCTOR
A medical doctor is available on board 24 hours a day. A fee is charged for any consultations and medication prescribed. Please ensure you carry adequate supplies of any regular medications you may require. If you have any medication which must be kept cold, please ask at reception to store it in the fridge.
ELECTRICITY
The electrical outlets in the cabins and public areas are 220V and take a two-round-pin plug (as in continental Europe). There is a 110/220V, 60Hz outlet for electric shavers in the bathroom. We recommend that you bring an international adaptor.
EMERGENCIES
In case of an emergency please leave your cabin and follow the instructions given by the Captain and Hotel Manager. All public areas have an emergency button. We request that you read the safety instructions on the back of your cabin door.
FIELD STAFF
Throughout your cruise you will be accompanied by your Noble Caledonia Cruise Director/Expedition Leader and an experienced team who will be happy to assist you with any queries or requests.
GOING ASHORE
Please leave your cabin key at reception and take your ship card with you. As soon as you are back on board please hand back your boarding card and pick up your key as this will confirm your presence on board.
SHORE EXCURSIONS
Please be on time for the organised excursions, so as not to keep others waiting. If you do not wish to participate in an excursion, please let your Cruise Director know.
GOING ASHORE INDEPENDENTLY
When you go ashore individually, please be back on board at least 30 minutes before the advertised departure time of the ship.
GRATUITIES
Gratuities to crew and whilst on excursions are included in the cost of your holiday.
HEALTH & HYGIENE
In order to maintain health standards you will find hand sanitizers at key positions around the ship particularly at the entrance to restaurants and near the gangway. We kindly ask you to use these regularly.
INTERNET
Wi-Fi access is available in public areas with your own laptop, tablet or smartphone, and charges apply – 500MB for €15 Euros, or 1GB for €25 Euros. Please note that connection is dependent on weather conditions and location.
LANGUAGE
All members of the crew speak English.
LAUNDRY SERVICE
If you require the laundry service, please leave your laundry bag together with the completed laundry list on your bed before 0900. The laundry bag and list can be found in your wardrobe. Every effort will be made to return your laundry to your cabin within 24 hours. There is no dry cleaning service onboard.
LIFE JACKETS
All life jackets are stored on Deck 6 near the Muster station.
LOST PROPERTY
Before you disembark the ship, please check your cabin to ensure you do not leave anything behind. If you discover you have left any items behind, please contact Noble Caledonia within seven days of disembarking. If we are able to recover your item(s) we will contact you to arrange delivery or collection, and any costs incurred will be at your own expense.
MASSAGE
Please contact reception (charges apply for massages).
MONEY
The official currency on board is the Euro, but British Pounds are also accepted. All passengers will have their own ship account, which allows you to sign for purchases and services such as bar drinks, telephone calls, laundry etc. throughout your cruise. The following payment methods are accepted for settlement of shipboard accounts:
• Cash (Euros,British Pounds or US Dollars) • Credit Card (MasterCard, Visa, American Express) • Debit Card (MasterCard and Visa) Please note that personal cheques and Travellers’ Cheques are not accepted.
As a result of Russian ownership, please note that credit/debit card payments will be charged in Russian Rubles. The debited amount shown on your bank/building society statement in British Pounds will be based on the relevant exchange rates on the day of the transaction. You may need to make your bank/building society aware that your card payment will be authorised ‘in Russia’ so that payment is not declined, and also to ascertain if any additional charges will be applied. Unfortunately, the ship is not able to offer a money-changing service onboard, as this would be contravening official regulations.
PASSPORTS
Your passport will be kept securely at reception throughout the duration of the cruise, and you will be issued with a ship card which we advise you carry with you at all times when ashore.
POST
Please note that although the reception staff may be happy to post letters and postcards on your behalf, they may not be able to do so straightaway or indeed at the port of call at which you make such a request. Please also note that some postal services are unreliable and that any letters or postcards that you ask to be sent on your behalf may be delayed or even lost en route. Under no circumstances can the ship be held liable for such occurrences.
PUBLIC AREAS
• Andrea Lounge (on Deck 5). The bar is open from 09.00 until 24.00. • Harald Jarl Lounge (on Deck 5). There is a small library here with books and games. There is also a computer for public use (charges apply for internet access) • Lido area (on Deck 5) with a Jacuzzi and small fitness room with two running machines • Observation Deck (access from Deck 5 lido area) • Deck 5 and Deck 6 outside seating areas
RECEPTION
Reception is open from 7.00 am to 10.00 pm. Overnight the reception’s phone will be switched over to the bridge.
QUESTIONNAIRE
Your comments are important to us therefore before your cruise ends, you will receive a questionnaire. We are always looking for ways to improve your holiday and in order to do this we need some feedback from our guests. Kindly hand your completed questionnaire in to your Cruise Director.
QUIETVOX
During our excursions, we use a whisper system called Quietvox. In your cabin there is a charging station with two devices and two sets of earpieces. Please keep your devices in the charging station (and the station plugged in) whilst you are not on an excursion. Bring the sets with you on excursions as your guides with speak to you through their microphone. The use of the equipment will be explained before the first excursion starts.
SAFE
Although there is a safe in your cabin, we recommend that you leave all extra valuables at home, and bring with you only what you consider necessary. Neither the ship, nor Noble Caledonia, are responsible for any valuables left in the cabins. Beware of petty crime and pickpockets whilst ashore. A money belt worn underneath clothing is useful. Do not take all your money with you when out sightseeing. We advise utmost caution at popular tourist spots. Please do not leave any luggage unattended at any time.
SAFETY AND LIFEBOAT DRILL
The safety briefing will take place prior to sailing. All guests must attend this compulsory and important exercise. Please listen for the announcements. During the drill you will be instructed on how to wear and operate your life jacket.
SEA SICKNESS
As on any seagoing vessel, some marked motion may be anticipated in certain areas, dependent upon weather, season, etc. It is recommended that you bring anti-motion sickness medication just in case, even if you have never experienced motion sickness in the past. Please consult your Doctor/General Practitioner (GP) or local pharmacist regarding which medication is appropriate and its side effects. To avert motion sickness, avoid alcohol, tobacco, excess liquids and confined spaces. Most people feel better sitting on deck looking at the horizon or lying down with their eyes shut. Oddly, you will feel better with some food, such as crackers or dry toast in your stomach. Many people eat to avoid feeling sick. Remember, once you start to experience motion sickness, medications are of little help. SHOP The shop sells branded MS Serenissima merchandise.
SMOKING
Smoking is not permitted in the cabins or public areas. Smoking will only be permitted outside in the designated areas.
SNORKELLING
There is snorkelling equipment available on board the vessel.
TELEVISION
The ship is equipped with a satellite TV system which receives 13 channels. TV reception depends on the satellite dish and on occasion it may not be possible to receive a signal. There is one central video channel on which it is possible to listen to the lectures delivered in the Andrea Lounge. There is also a channel for the ship’s camera located in front of the ship and another which displays the Daily Programme and activities.
TOILETS
The ship is fitted with a sensitive vacuum system. Please do not put anything into the toilet except toilet paper.
TOWELS
Towels will be changed once in the middle of your cruise. Should you need new towels earlier, please let the housekeeper know. Please do not use the bathroom towels on the beach. A separate towel for swimming will be provided.
WATER
We recommend that you do not drink the tap water in your cabin. The tap water in your cabin is not potable. Complimentary bottles of mineral water will be placed in your cabin daily and near reception before an excursion.
ZODIACS
Some destinations may require the use of Zodiacs to go ashore. These are usually on expedition cruises though may sometimes be used on destination cruises.
Please Note: These details should be used as a guideline only. Information is subject to change.
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Videos
Videos
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Deck plans
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Deckplan
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Deckplan
Travelling with You
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George Hart
George Hart was tempted into taking post-graduate studies in Egyptology by the fascinating interconnections between the classical world and the civilisation of the pharaohs. His first visit to Egypt was in 1971 and he has been back there at least once every year since. He has frequently taken tours to Egypt ranging from cruises on the River Nile and Lake Nasser to land trips in the Sinai Peninsula and the oases of the Western Desert. His career at the British Museum lasting over 30 years involved lectures and courses on Ancient Egypt as well as teaching hieroglyphs at introductory and advanced levels. He also researched the civilisations of the Ancient Mediterranean world including the major monuments of the Levant which he has visited on many occasions. During this period he wrote books on the Pyramid Age and on Egyptian deities and mythology. He was the first chairman of the Friends of the Petrie Museum of Egyptian Archaeology attached to University College London. He has also served on the Board of Trustees of the Egyptian Exploration Society. Currently he is a committee member of both the Sudan Archaeological Research Society and the London Centre of the Ancient Near East. His most recent publication is a two volume book on the Pharaohs for the Folio Society, covering 3000 years down to the suicide of Cleopatra.
George Hart will be on the following tour dates: 26 April 2020 to 7 May 2020
Tour Extensions
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Pre-Cruise Malta Extension
24th to 26th April 2020
If you would like to spend some time in Malta before embarking the MS Serenissima we are offering a two night stay providing the chance to explore Valletta and the surrounding area.
Valletta
The Itinerary
Day 1 London to Malta. Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to the Intercontinental Hotel (or similar) for a two night stay. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure before meeting tonight for a welcome dinner in the hotel.
Day 2 Valletta. After breakfast in the hotel we will embark on a city tour of Valletta, the 16th century “Fortress City” built by the Knights of St John. Our morning tour will include the highlights of Valletta with its stunning views across the harbour from the Barakka Gardens. We will explore Merchants Street containing the surviving auberges built by the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem, together with the palace where Napoleon Bonaparte is believed to have stayed in 1798. Our final stop will be at St John’s Cathedral. The afternoon and evening are free for independent exploration.
Day 3 Mdina. Enjoy time at leisure before we check out of the hotel in the late morning and transfer to Mdina. Originally given the name of “Citta Nobile”, the city is now known as the “Silent City”. Mdina is Phoenician in origin and was the fortified capital of the island before the arrival of the Knights. We will have lunch in one of the restaurants before transferring to the MS Serenissima moored in Valletta.
Prices per person based on double occupancy
24 to 26 April 2020 Category Price Twin £595 Single £995 Price Includes: Two nights hotel accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis, tours as described, lunch on day 3, dinner on day 1, Tour Manager, gratuities, transfers.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
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For those who would like to spend some time in Portugal after disembarking the MS Serenissima, we have arranged a two night extension at the beautiful Palacio Estoril Hotel, located a short distance from Lisbon. Our stay will include a half day tour of Lisbon and the remainder of the time will be yours to explore at leisure.
Hotel Palacio Estoril
The Itinerary
Palacio Estoril Hotel
Located in the heart of Estoril, just 20 minutes from the centre of Lisbon, the Palacio is set in beautiful gardens with outstanding views over Estoril and the Bay of Cascais. The Palacio has been updated and has benefited from several refurbishments and renovations. Today, it offers all the comfort and convenience of a modern luxury five-star hotel while retaining all its charm of the past. During World War Two, due to Portugal’s neutrality, several royal families went into exile in Estoril, which became known as the ‘Coast of Kings’. The Palacio Estoril Hotel was the chosen home of numerous members of European royalty and was also the haunt of British and German spies, who could often be found in its bar. Later, these stories of intrigue and espionage inspired famous novelists and filmmakers and the hotel served as the set for the James Bond movie ‘On Her Majesty’s Secret Service’. In February 2011, the Royal Gallery was created where you can view photographs of the important members of European royalty who stayed at the hotel and the gallery is now one of Estoril’s tourist attractions.
Prices per person based on double occupancy
7 to 9 May 2020 Category Price Twin £395 Single £595 Price Includes: Two nights accommodation in a classic room at the Palacio Estoril Hotel on a bed and breakfast basis, half day tour of Lisbon, gratuities, transfers from airport to hotel and hotel to ship, taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
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Itinerary at a glance
- Malta / Piazza Armerina / Agrigento / Trapani / Palermo / Messina /Taormina / Catania / Syracuse /Noto
Wonders of the Ancient World
Discover highlights of the Ancient World on a voyage from Malta to Athens with Guest Speaker Louise Schofield aboard the MS Serenissima
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £200 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY
Serenissima
Serenissima
Itinerary at a glance
- Malta /Syracuse / Crotone / Otranto /Lecce /Butrint / Kalamata / Mystras / Nafplion / Athens
Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000