History & Gardens of the Mediterranean
A voyage from Nice to Valletta aboard the luxurious World Explorer with Guest Speakers Dr Alan Borg & Caroline Holmes
- 3 May 2020
Join us for this relaxing and informative voyage as we explore the Mediterranean and all its wonders. We have chartered the World Explorer, a perfect vessel for this journey of discovery as we cruise to some of the most culturally fascinating and scenically beautiful places in France and Italy. The combined effect of the natural beauty of the coasts and islands along with the stunning gardens, intriguing history and magnificent architecture of the towns and cities makes this journey unforgettable and a very different experience to that which can be undertaken aboard the larger cruise liners in the region.
We have chosen the perfect time of year for our voyage and can expect verdant gardens and landscapes awash with blossoms, moderate temperatures with the absence of high season crowds. Our itinerary has been planned to ensure the balance is just right between exploring ashore, relaxing on board and with some time at leisure in some picturesque ports for individual exploration. We will sail from the French Riviera to Malta with calls in northern and southern Italy as well as the islands of Corsica, Elba and Lipari before we spend the two final full days in Sicily before sailing across to Malta.
On most days during our voyage there will be a choice of included tours which you can choose from depending on your interest or perhaps based upon where you have visited before. Whilst in Menton there will be a choice of garden focused tour or a visit to Monaco; during our time in Tuscany you may choose to visit Florence or Lucca; when in Naples, explore the island of Ischia or the magnificent ruins of Herculaneum and from Anzio you can choose to visit the beautiful villas of Tivoli or alternatively explore Rome independently.
With just 150 or so like-minded travellers and an expert team on board, together with informative local guides, by the end of the voyage you will have seen and learnt so much. All this will be achieved with great ease from the comfort of the newly built World Explorer which has the advantage of allowing us to moor centrally in places such as delightful Syracuse and access to many ports which the big ships simply cannot including Lipari in the Aeolian Islands, L’Ile Rouse for our exploration of Calvi on the island of Corsica and the glorious town of Menton on the French Riviera.
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.
World Explorer
We are delighted to have chartered the newly built, World Explorer which launched in summer 2019. This luxurious vessel, with just 100 cabins and suites offers all the conveniences and comforts that you expect from a five star vessel from a wellness area, pool and running track to two lounges, a lecture theatre in addition to spacious cabins and suites. The onboard crew of over 100 will ensure your comfort on board and offer a high level of personalised service. They will be joined by a Noble Caledonia team including our experienced Cruise Director, Tour Managers and excellent Guest Speakers. After a day of exploration you can return to an exceedingly comfortable vessel to enjoy high quality cuisine, superb onboard facilities, informative briefings and interesting lectures.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Nice, France.
Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to the World Explorer. Enjoy welcome drinks and dinner as we moor overnight.
Day 2 Nice.
This morning we drive to Saint Jean Cap Ferrat for our visit to Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild. Built in 1900 in Italian palazzo style and surrounded by magnificent gardens, the villa houses a magnificent collection of works including tapestries, furniture, candelabras, terracottas, porcelains and Chinese vases. Alternatively there will also be an excursion to the quaint village of Eze which is perched on a rocky peak overlooking the Mediterranean. We will have some time to wander the cobblestone streets before returning to the ship for lunch. Spend the afternoon at leisure to explore Nice independently. This evening we sail the short distance for an overnight mooring in Menton.
Day 3 Menton.
Spend the morning at the Val Rahmeh Botanical Gardens. Established in the late 19th century by Lord Radcliffe the garden contains subtropical and tropical plants which thrive in the unique microclimate between the mountains and the sea which the garden benefits from. We continue to the Serre de La Madone, designed in the 1920s by Lawrence Johnston. Spread over nine hectares the garden is divided into compartments by hedges and walls and includes plants sourced from his travels around the world. Alternatively there will be the option to spend the morning in Monaco, the epitome of Riviera chic where our visit will include Monaco Old Town and Monte Carlo. After lunch on board enjoy a leisurely afternoon on board or explore ashore independently.
Day 4 L’Ile-Rousse, Corsica.
This morning we arrive in L’Ile-Rousse from where we will explore Calvi, the capital of the prosperous Balagne region of the island of Corsica. A guided tour will lead us through the alleyways and cobbled streets before continuing to the imposing citadel. Built by the Genoese, the 15th century structure has seen off several assaults through the centuries and offers wonderful views from its five bastions. We will also see the Caserne Sampiero and 13th century Cathedral St Jean Baptiste. After lunch on board there will be an opportunity to explore the flora of Corsica with a visit to the seven hectare Parc de Saleccia where you can explore the range of paths through the gardens and see the tough plants of the maquis, pines, myrtles and over 100 varieties of olive trees.
Day 5 Livorno, Italy.
Today we will discover Florence on a full day tour from our berth in Livorno. The city of Florence is a vast monument to the Renaissance, where writers like Dante and Machiavelli and artists such as Botticelli, Michelangelo and Donatello made the city into one of the world’s greatest treasures. Alternatively you may wish to discover charming Lucca, one of the most picturesque towns in Tuscany. The present town has evolved since Etruscan and Roman times: the oval Piazza Anfiteatro stands on the site of the original Roman amphitheatre, the structure of which has been incorporated into Medieval buildings. A third option for today will be the opportunity to spend some time in the Tuscan countryside, where we will visit a beautiful villa and its gardens.
Day 6 Portoferraio, Elba.
The enchanting island of Elba is best known as Napoleon’s island of exile from 1814 to 1815. Departing from the island’s busy capital Portoferraio, we will set out for a delightful drive exploring the southern region of the island with superb views over the coastline. Visit Villa San Martino which was the summer residence of Napoleon Bonaparte and has been transformed into a museum. Later enjoy some time at leisure in Porto Azzurro to browse around and shop among the many local boutiques of this delightful town which is dominated by an ancient Spanish fortress and a picturesque harbour. Our drive continues along the coast to a 17th century country wine farm, which is beautifully nestled in a vineyard estate surrounded by olive trees. Experience the estate’s interesting cellar to learn how the wine is handled and produced and enjoy a delicious sampling of the local product. Return to the ship for lunch and enjoy an afternoon at leisure in Portoferraio.
Day 7 Tivoli, Italy.
Today, from the port of Anzio we visit Villa d’Este, a masterpiece of the Italian Garden. With its impressive concentration of fountains, nymphs, grottoes, plays of water and music, it constitutes a much-copied model for European gardens in the mannerist and Baroque styles. The imposing constructions and the series of terraces above terraces bring to mind the hanging gardens of Babylon, one of the Wonders of the Ancient World. After lunch at a local restaurant we continue on to Villa Adriana, an exceptional complex of classical building created in the 2nd century AD by the Roman Emperor Hadrian. It combines the best elements of the architectural heritage of Egypt, Greece and Rome in the form of an ‘ideal city’. Alternatively, if you would rather take the opportunity to explore Rome independently we will be providing a return transfer to the city and back from the vessel.
Day 8 Naples.
There will be a choice of excursions today and you may choose to take the ferry and spend the day on the garden island of Ischia where our guided tour will focus on La Mortella, a wonderful garden designed by architect Russell Page for Sir and Lady William Walton. We will enjoy lunch and some free time to explore the main town. Alternatively enjoy a day in Naples where a morning tour will take us to Herculaneum. Smaller than Pompeii but in many ways better preserved, the town befell the same fate as its neighbour on the other side of the volcano. Herculaneum was largely a residential town, and you will be able to see noble mansions and more modest town houses, together with the public baths and their frescoes. Return to the ship for lunch and enjoy an afternoon at leisure in Naples before we sail to Amalfi.
Day 9 Amalfi.
From our anchorage off Amalfi we will go ashore this morning to visit the nearby beautiful gardens of the Villa Cimbrone in Ravello. The villa was something of a Bohemian retreat in its early days and has had many illustrious former guests. Transformed in the early 20th century by Lord Grimthorpe and Vita Sackville-West it is an essentially English style garden with amazing views of the Amalfi Coast. Return to Amalfi and enjoy an afternoon at leisure.
Day 10 Lipari, Aeolian Islands.
Arriving over lunch we will spend the afternoon at the picturesque island of Lipari situated in the Aeolian Islands off the north coast of Sicily. Here we will find an amazing collection of ruins from the prehistoric through to the Roman period. Lipari town is a thriving little place prettily located between two harbours. Our afternoon guided tour will include a visit to the upper town set within fortress walls and a visit to the Archaeological Museum with its impressive relics from nearby excavations.
Day 11 Giardini Naxos for Taormina or Mount Etna.
Today you can choose to 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 time exploring the characteristic alleys, the 15th century Palazzo Corvaja and the impressive Greek Theatre from where there are marvellous views over the town and coast. Alternatively take a trip up the slopes of Mount Etna, passing bare lava fields to reach the Silvestri crater. This evening we sail the short distance to Syracuse where we will moor overnight.
Day 12 Syracuse.
Founded by the Greeks in 734 BC, by the 5th century Syracuse was a political and military power throughout the Mediterranean and rivalled Athens as the largest and most beautiful city in the Greek world. We have a choice of tours today, either visit the Neapolis Archeological Park where we find a well preserved Greek theatre with seats carved of limestone. Continue to explore the island of Ortigia and the Temple of Apollo, considered to be Sicily’s most ancient Doric temple. Alternatively explore Noto, a striking town built upon a series of terraces connected by massive steps. Its magnificent Baroque architecture has earned it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage list. A final option today will be to enjoy a visit to the gardens of Marquess of San Giuliano where you can see the Mediterranean, Arabian and tropical gardens which owe much to the head gardener, Rachel Lamb.
Day 13 Valletta, Malta to London.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London.
Ship to Shore Information: Please note that during this voyage we will be at anchor in the following ports and will use the vessel’s Zodiacs and/or local boats to tender ashore: Menton, L’Ile Rousse, Anzio, Amalfi, Lipari & Giardini Naxos.
Dates and Prices
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £300 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY
Prices per person based on double occupancy
| 3 to 15 May 2020 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| 1 Expedition Cabin, Deck 3 | £6295 | £5995 |
| 2 Infinity Cabin, Deck 5 | £6895 | £6595 |
| 3 Veranda Cabin, Deck 5 | £7095 | £6795 |
| 4 Infinity Cabin, Deck 6 | £7295 | £6995 |
| 5 Veranda Cabin, Deck 6 | £7495 | £7195 |
| 6 Junior Suite, Deck 6 | £7995 | £7695 |
| 7 Navigator Suite, Deck 5 | £8495 | £8195 |
| 8 Navigator Suite, Deck 6 | £8695 | £8395 |
| 9 VIP Suite, Deck 5 | £9295 | £8995 |
| 10 Explorer Suite, Deck 5 | £9595 | £9295 |
| 11 Explorer Suite, Deck 6 | £9895 | £9595 |
| 1 Expedition Cabin, Deck 3 for sole use | £7795 | £7495 |
| 2 Infinity Cabin, Deck 5 for sole use | £8595 | £8295 |
| 3 Veranda Cabin, Deck 5 for sole use | £8795 | £8495 |
| 6 Junior Suite, Deck 6 for sole use | £9095 | £8795 |
Tour Reference Code: SCWE030520
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • 12 nights aboard the World Explorer on a full board basis • House wine, beer & soft drinks with lunch & dinner on board • Noble Caledonia onboard team including Guest Speakers • Shore excursions • Gratuities • Transfers • Port Taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
Ship to Shore Information: Please note that during this voyage we will be at anchor in the following ports and will use the vessel’s Zodiacs and/or local boats to tender ashore: Menton, L’Ile Rousse, Anzio, Amalfi, Lipari & Giardini Naxos.
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Deckplan
World Explorer
We are delighted to have chartered the newly built, World Explorer which launched in summer 2019. This luxurious vessel, with just 100 cabins and suites offers all the conveniences and comforts that you expect from a five star vessel from a wellness area, pool and running track to two lounges, a lecture theatre in addition to spacious cabins and suites. The onboard crew of over 100 will ensure your comfort on board and offer a high level of personalised service. They will be joined by a Noble Caledonia team including our experienced Cruise Director, Tour Managers and excellent Guest Speakers. After a day of exploration you can return to an exceedingly comfortable vessel to enjoy high quality cuisine, superb onboard facilities, informative briefings and interesting lectures.
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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 chartered the newly built, World Explorer. This luxurious vessel, with just 100 cabins and suites offers all the conveniences and comforts that you would expect from a five star vessel from a wellness area, pool and running track to two lounges, a lecture theatre and elegant restaurant. The onboard crew of over 100 will ensure your comfort on board and offer a high level of personalised service. They will be joined by a Noble Caledonia team including our experienced Cruise Director, Tour Managers and excellent Guest Speakers. After a day of exploration you can return to an exceedingly comfortable vessel to enjoy high quality cuisine, superb onboard facilities, informative briefings and interesting lectures. We hope this information booklet answers any questions you may have pertaining to the vessel and wish you a pleasant voyage.
VESSEL TECHNICAL DETAILS
Built: 2019
Width: 19 metres
Draft: 4.7 metres
Length: 126 metres
Cruising Speed: 16 knots
Number of crew: 105
Zodiacs: 18AIR-CONDITIONING
The entire vessel is air-conditioned.
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.
CABINS
Accommodation on board is spread over three decks and ranges in size from 17 to 44 m2, all with outside views. All cabins and suites are modern, light and elegantly furnished with a wardrobe, modern bathroom with shower/WC, air-conditioning/heating with individual control, safe and a modern infotainment system with satellite television. Beds can be configured as twin or double. Hairdryers, bathrobes and L’Occitaine toiletries are supplied. The majority of cabins and suites feature a spacious balcony whilst the Infinity Cabins on both Decks 5 and 6 have a unique, drop down window feature comprising of two glass elements. The upper element is easily pushed down to open forming a balcony parapet and in order to enjoy the view and fresh air, two comfortable arm chairs are positioned by the window.
Expedition Cabins: Located on Deck 3, these cabins measure approximately 17m2 and feature a small, fixed window and small seating area with two chairs and a table.
Infinity Cabins: Located on Decks 5 & 6, these cabins measure 25m2 and feature a drop down window comprising of two glass elements. The upper element is easily pushed down to open forming a balcony parapet. There is a sofa, two armchairs and a desk in these cabins.
Veranda Cabins: Located on Decks 5 & 6, these cabins measure 25m2 and feature a private balcony which is furnished with a table and two comfortable chairs. These cabins also feature a comfortable sofa and desk.
Junior Suites: Located on Deck 6, the Junior Suites measure 28m2 and feature a private balcony furnished with a table and two comfortable chairs. The seating area features a comfortable sofa and extra cupboard space along with an extra infotainment system with satellite television.
Navigator Suites: The Navigator Suites measure 36m2 with a large private balcony which can be accessed from the living and sleeping area. The balcony is furnished with a table and two comfortable chairs along with deck chairs. The seating area features a comfortable sofa and armchair along with an extra infotainment system with satellite television.
VIP Suites: The two VIP Suites measure 41 m2 with a large private balcony which can be accessed from the living and sleeping area. The balcony is furnished with a table and two comfortable chairs along with deck chairs. The seating area features a comfortable sofa and armchair along with an extra infotainment system with satellite television. A generous walk-in wardrobe provides plenty of space and the bathroom is equipped with two wash basins.
Explorer Suites: The two Explorer Suites measure 44 m2 with a generous private balcony which can be accessed from the living and sleeping area. The balcony is furnished with a table and two comfortable chairs along with deck chairs. The seating area features a separate entrance, comfortable sofa and armchair along with an extra infotainment system with satellite television. There is plenty of storage in two wardrobes and the bathroom is equipped with two wash basins, a bath as well as shower. The WC is separate.
COMMUNICATION
The telephone system for ship to shore functions is via satellite and charges may apply for outgoing calls. Please check with reception once on board. It is also possible to phone from cabin to cabin. Please be advised of the following for internal communications: Cabin to cabin: dial cabin number International line: dial 0 + code of the country + telephone number Reception: follow instruction in cabin Doctor: following instruction in cabin
DAILY PROGRAMME
A Daily Programme, detailing the following day’s arrangements as well as any specific information about the day’s activities is produced on board and delivered to your cabin each evening during the turndown service.
DINING, DRINKING & DIETARY REQUIREMENTS
The restaurant on Deck 4 can accommodate all guests in a single sitting and with an open seating policy on board you can dine with whom you choose. The excellent kitchen crew will prepare sumptuous meals of varied international cuisine with buffets in the mornings and at lunchtime. For more variety, you can choose light meals at lunchtime from the changing menu in the Lido Café. In the evening, dinner is served at your table. The international cuisine on board will surprise you with many culinary highlights. House wine, beer and soft drinks are served with lunch and dinner. Special dietary requests such as vegetarian, diabetic, dairy free, gluten free, low fat, low salt and low cholesterol should be made with Noble Caledonia in advance. However, we recommend that you also contact the Maitre D’ once on board to reconfirm such requests. We regret that not all dietary requests can be guaranteed.
DISEMBARKATION
Your Cruise Director will provide you with disembarkation information prior to the end of your cruise.
DOCTOR
A medical doctor is available on board 24 hours a day in case of emergency. 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 contact Noble Caledonia in advance so the necessary arrangements can be made to store it in the fridge.
DRESS CODE
During the day, comfortable and casual attire is appropriate. The evenings are smart casual (e.g. shirt and trousers for gentlemen and 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. For excursions on shore, we recommend casual clothing suitable for the weather conditions, plus comfortable shoes. Non-slip shoes should be worn on the outer decks.
ELECTRICITY
The electrical outlets in the cabins and public areas are 220V and take a two-round-pin plug (as in continental Europe). We recommend that you bring an international adaptor. Irons, hair straighteners, immersion heaters or other similar devices cannot be used in the cabins for safety reasons. EMERGENCIES
In case of an emergency, please leave your cabin and follow the instructions given by the Captain and Hotel Manager. 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 and an experienced team who will be happy to assist you with any queries or requests.
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.
GYM
There is a gym on board with a range of modern cardio equipment available.
HEALTH & HYGIENE
In order to maintain health standards you will find hand sanitisers at key positions around the ship, particularly at the entrance to the restaurant and main lounge. We kindly ask you to use these regularly.
INTERNET ON BOARD
World Explorer is equipped with a satellite receiver and offers internet access in WLAN form for a fee. Continuous reception cannot always be guaranteed since the network coverage may be temporarily interrupted while at sea.
LAUNDRY SERVICE
There is laundry service available at an additional charge. Dry cleaning is not available.
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 disembarkation. 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.
MONEY
The official currency on board the World Explorer is the Euro. All passengers will have their own ship account, which allows you to sign for purchases and services throughout your cruise. The following payment methods are accepted for settlement of shipboard accounts:
• Cash (Euros)
• Credit Card (MasterCard, VISA, American Express)
Please note that personal cheques and Travellers’ Cheques are not accepted.
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 circumstance can the ship be held liable for such occurrences. Postcards and stamps can be purchased on board, but please note that the prices on board are usually more expensive than on shore.
PUBLIC AREAS
The World Explorer benefits from spacious and finely decorated public areas, the majority of which are conveniently located on Deck 4. The Explorer Lounge is the perfect venue to socialise with fellow travellers over an after dinner drink whist the Observatory Lounge and Bar benefits from panoramic windows allowing you to enjoy magnificent views. There is also a small cigar lounge, casino and shop on board. The onboard spa area features a sauna, gym, small pool and two whirlpools on deck with comfortable loungers and a pool bar. There is also a running track on the outer deck. The theatre which can comfortably accommodate all passengers is where our Guest Speakers will host their informative talks. The onboard restaurant benefits from large windows and in addition there is a small Lido Café (weather dependent). A lift serves all decks on board.
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 our holidays and in order to do this we request feedback from our guests. Kindly hand your completed questionnaire to your Cruise Director.
RECEPTION
Reception is open throughout the day and located on Deck 4.
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.
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.
SMOKING
Smoking is only permitted on the designated outer decks and in the Cigar Lounge. Please make use only of the ash trays provided. All interior areas such as restaurant, salons, cabins, corridors etc. are non-smoking areas.
TELEVISION
Your cabin features a television that operates using a satellite system, meaning that television reception is available for the majority of the trip however on certain occasions it may not be possible to receive a TV signal. The onboard TV system will offer you ‘on demand’ films and documentaries on the topic of your destination.
WATER
We recommend that you do not drink the tap water in your cabin.
PLEASE NOTE:
Please note that at the time of print, the World Explorer is still under construction so all the images are computer animated representations. The ship’s architects have provided an impression of the colour and material combinations as realistic as possible for the illustrations. Photos of the actual vessel will be available after its launch. The information contained in this booklet should be used as a guideline only. Information is subject to change.
V.1 February 2019
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Deck plans
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Deckplan
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Deckplan
Travelling with You
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Dr Alan Borg
Alan began his career teaching history of art at Indiana and Princeton Universities. Returning to Britain in 1970, he became Assistant Keeper in the Royal Armouries in the Tower of London. In 1982 he became Director General of the Imperial War Museum, where he was responsible for the complete refurbishment and reinterpretation of the Museum, the opening of the Cabinet War Rooms, the preservation of HMS Belfast and the development of Duxford Airfield as a major aviation museum. Appointed Director of the V&A in 1996, he undertook the redisplay of the entire sequence of British Galleries. He retired in 2001 and is currently Vice President of the Foundling Museum, and Librarian of the Priory of England and the Islands, the Venerable Order of St John. Awarded the CBE in 1991, he is also a Knight of the Order of St John. His publications include books on Romanesque art, the history of Arms and Armour, War Memorials and A History of Vauxhall Gardens.
Dr Alan Borg will be on the following tour dates: 3 to 15 May 2020 -
Caroline Holmes
Caroline Holmes is a garden historian of ancient, modern and contemporary landscapes who delves into the people and plants that are integral to their story. She is an international lecturer in the warmth and comfort of halls and houses, Course Director for University of Cambridge ISP as well as leading groups through sites and gardens especially in France. She is at one with Nietzche when he wrote ‘We should call every truth false which was not accompanied by some laughter’ or in the garden sense she sifts the humour from the humus.
Caroline broadcasts on BBC Radio 4 and is the author of 11 books including Water Lilies and Bory Latour-Marliac, the genius behind Monet’s water lilies, RHS Herbs for the Gourmet Gardener, Impressionists in their Gardens, Follies of Europe – architectural extravaganzas and Monet at Giverny. As a consultant designer she devised the planting and guide notes for The Poison Garden in The Alnwick Garden, Northumberland, as well as creating a Humanist Renaissance voyage through gardens that encircle the church of Notre-Dame-de-Calais. The latter have been nominated for jardin remarquable status and are open to the public. The concepts behind them can be viewed on Engraved on my Heart: a new garden for Calais www.mfreeth.com/movies/13.html. Caroline is currently learning Hindi for a forthcoming research trip into the Western Himalayas.
Caroline Holmes will be on the following tour dates: 3 to 15 May 2020
Tour Extensions
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Before embarking the World Explorer in Nice we are offering the opportunity to join a two night pre-cruise extension based in Nice and focusing on the artistic heritage of the region with excursions to the Maeght Foundation, Saint Paul de Vence and the Chagall Museum.
Saint Paul de Vence
The Itinerary
Day 1 London to Nice, France.
Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to your hotel for a two night stay. Meet for dinner in the hotel.
Day 2 Saint Paul de Vence.
After breakfast in the hotel we visit the Maeght Foundation. This exceptional site contains one of the most important collections in Europe with paintings, sculptures, drawings and graphic works of modern art from the 20th century. From here we will continue on to Saint Paul de Vence, a fortified village which from 1920, artists, sculptors, writers and actors elected as their main meeting point, making Saint Paul de Vence a famous Riviera landmark. Return to the hotel for an afternoon and evening at leisure.
Day 3 Chagall Museum.
After a morning at leisure, we will check out of our hotel and take lunch in a local restaurant before visiting the Marc Chagall Museum. After our visit we will continue to the World Explorer and embark.
Prices per person based on double occupancy
1 to 3 May 2020 Category Price Twin £695 Single £845 Price Includes: Two nights hotel accommodation in Nice with breakfast, tours as described, dinner on day 1, lunch of day 3, Tour Manager, gratuities, transfers.
Not Included: Travel insurance, lunch and dinner on day 2.
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If you would like to spend some time in Malta after our voyage we are offering a two night stay on the island which will include a guided tour of both Valletta and Mdina.
Mdina
The Itinerary
Day 1 Valletta, Malta.
After breakfast we will disembark the World Explorer and begin a city tour of Valletta, the 16th century ‘Fortress City’ built by Knights of St John. After lunch we transfer to the Grand Hotel Excelsior and check-in. The remainder of the afternoon and evening are at leisure.
Day 2 Mdina.
A morning tour will take us to Mdina which is Phoenician in origin and was the fortified capital of the island, before the arrival of the Knights. Return to the hotel and spend the afternoon at leisure. Meet tonight for dinner.
Day 3 Malta to London.
Check out after breakfast and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London.
Prices per person based on double occupancy
15 to 17 May 2020 Category Price Twin £495 Single £745 Price Includes: Two nights hotel accommodation in Malta with breakfast, tours as described, lunch on day 1, dinner of day 2, Tour Manager, gratuities, transfers.
Not Included: Travel insurance, dinner on day 1, lunch on day 2.
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23 September 2020
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
Serenissima
Serenissima
Itinerary at a glance
- Malta /Syracuse / Crotone / Otranto /Lecce /Butrint / Kalamata / Mystras / Nafplion / Athens
9 nights
from
£3950
Next Departure
1 October 2020
La Dolce Vita & Land of Gods & Heroes
A voyage from Malta to Athens aboard Sea Cloud II with Guest Speaker Dr Steve Kershaw
SAVE UP TO £800 PER PERSON
Sea Cloud II
Sea Cloud II
Itinerary at a glance
- Malta / Agrigento / Syracuse / Taormina / Crotone / Taranto /Otranto / Monopoli / Bari / Apollonia / Butrint / Preveza / Olympia / Kalamata / Monemvasia / Nafplio / Athens
16 nights
from
£9195
Next Departure
7 June 2021
Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000