Sicily & the Barbary Coast
Discover the Roman sites of Sicily & North Africa aboard the MS Serenissima
- 20 October 2020
Located in Sicily and on the North African coast, betwixt the desert and the sea are some of Rome’s most magnificent sites which we will discover during this fascinating voyage from Malta to Casablanca. Our cruise begins with three days of exploration in Sicily, an endlessly fascinating island which lends itself beautifully to discovery by small ship as most points of interest are close to the sea.
We will visit the magnificently sited Doric temples of Agrigento, the Imperial Roman Villa of Casale, regarded as one of the finest Roman sites on the island and Segesta, one of the grandest Doric monuments to survive.
Like Sicily, North Africa’s Barbary Coast is best explored by sea and after a morning in the Sardinian capital of Cagliari we will sail south to Algeria where the favourable desert influenced climate has been remarkably kind to the historic sites. During our three days in Algeria we will visit Bejaia from where you can discover the Roman ruins of Djemila, some of the finest preserved in North Africa. We also spend a morning exploring the ancient city of Tipaza which was probably founded by the Phoenicians but really came into being under the Romans. Our final day in Algeria focuses on Medieval Tlemcen, one of country’s finest cities. For those who enjoy exploring the ancient world, this itinerary has it all. The magnificent sites provide an unparalleled experience of life in classical times which with the help of our knowledgeable Guest Speaker and local guides, will be brought vividly back to life.
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.
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Travelling with You
Chris Bradley - Guest SpeakerChris Brandley is an Arts Society lecturer who specialises in the Middle East and North Africa having lived and worked in the region for over 40 years. As a professional tour guide and lecturer he has led many tours in Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia, Libya and Egypt and his books include the Berlitz guides to Libya; Cairo; Egypt’s Red Sea; Oman; Abu Dhabi; the Insight Guides to Egypt; Jordan; The Silk Road; Travel Photography, and the Discovery Guide to Yemen.
In the early 2000s he was an invited consultant for the United Nations World Tourism Organisation analysis on tourism development of Libya helping to open the country to tourism for more than a decade. He still leads several tours each year to a variety of destinations, designing many specialist itineraries. He is also a lecturer to noted societies, such as the Royal Geographical Society, the Royal Scottish Geographical Society and the Australian Decorative and Fine Arts Societies.
He has been a cameraman and producer on many television documentaries films for the BBC, Channel 4 and National Geographic TV. In Morocco he developed and filmed Atlas Biker which became Nicholas Cranes first television adventure documentary.
His lectures on this cruise will feature archive photographs to help uncover the rich layers of North African and Mediterranean history from pre-history through the classical era to the modern day. In particular he will be focussing on the Roman period whose contemporary mosaics give us a fascinating insight into Roman life in Sicily, Algeria and Morocco.
Chris Bradley will be on the following tour dates: 20 to 30 October 2020
Serenissima
The charming MS Serenissima began her career as the Harald Jarl, cruising the Norwegian coastline and fjords. Extensively renovated in 2003 she was rechristened MS Andrea and began her life as a classic cruise ship, and was chartered by Noble Caledonia for a number of years. In spring 2012 MS Andrea was purchased by our longstanding associates Volga Dream and renamed the MS Serenissima. After a thorough renovation and upgrading, the charming MS Serenissima commenced cruise operations in April 2013 and we have chartered her for the majority of each year since knowing her to be perfect for small ship cruising. 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. Arrive this afternoon and transfer to the MS Serenissima moored in Valletta. Enjoy welcome drinks and dinner on board as we set sail this evening.
Day 2 Licata for Piazza Armerina, Sicily.
From the port of Licata we travel inland to what is regarded as the finest Roman site in Sicily, the Imperial Roman Villa of Casale, which is located close to Piazza Armerina amidst wooded rolling countryside. This huge villa was built in the 3rd century and has some stunning floor mosaics. Our return drive takes us through the province of Caltanissetta, recognised today as one of the best wine making regions in Italy thanks above all to its production of high quality, prestigious red wines including Nero D’Avola. We will break our journey at one of the vineyards and enjoy a chance to sample some wine over a Sicilian lunch. Return to the MS Serenissima in the late afternoon and sail tonight.
Day 3 Agrigento & Valley of the Temples.
Although handsome in its own right and awash with Medieval atmosphere, Agrigento is not our main reason for calling at this southern coast port. Close by is the Valle dei Templi, a series of Doric temples and the most captivating of Sicilian Greek remains, and a grouping unique outside Greece. Surrounded in greenery of olive and almond trees, admire the Temple of Hera, the Temple of Concord, the Dioscuri Temple, the Temple of Olympic Jove and the Temple of Hercules. After lunch on board the afternoon is free to explore Agrigento and shuttles will run from the port to the town and the excellent archaeological museum where you can explore at leisure.
Day 4 Trapani.
Trapani was the landing point for Peter of Aragon in 1282 to start the Spanish occupation of Sicily and is our base for the day. This morning we will travel to the nearby town of Erice, famed in antiquity for its temple dedicated to the goddess of love, the Phoenician Astarte, Greek Aphrodite or Roman Venus. A tour will take us to this stunning site high above the sea and to the beautifully preserved Medieval town characterised by its winding cobblestone streets and beautiful courtyards. Alternatively travel inland to explore Segesta, one of the grandest Doric monuments to survive. See the unfinished temple dating from 424 BC as well as the theatre from which you can enjoy excellent views of the countryside and distant coastline. Return to the ship for lunch and a relaxing afternoon at sea.
Day 5 Cagliari, Sardinia.
Arrive over breakfast in the Sardinian capital of Cagliari, an ancient city which dates back to the Phoenicians and Romans. During our 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. Return to the ship for lunch as we sail this afternoon towards the North African coast.
Day 6 Bejaia, Algeria.
Bejaia is built on a beautiful bay protected by mountains which give the city a splendid backdrop. A minor port in Roman times it was named Saldae having been founded by the Roman Emperor Vespasian and is our base for a choice of options today. Maybe choose a full day tour to Djemila which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981 due to its unique adaptation of Roman architecture to a mountain environment. In a remarkable setting the ruins are some of the finest preserved in North Africa. We will drive along a very scenic route and traverse spectacular scenery as we climb from little Kabilya towards the high plateau of Setif where the Roman ruins are located. View the Arch of Caracalla, the Forum, the Basilica and the Temples before viewing the mosaics which are displayed in the museum, representing the best collection in Algeria. This is a long but rewarding excursion. An alternative excursion will be a drive through the valley of the Soumman, the legendary meeting place of the leaders of the Freedom Fighters. It was here that they launched the revolution of the 1st November 1954 which lasted for seven years until they gained independence for Algeria on the 5th July 1962. Afterwards visit a Berber village in Kabylia where we visit a typical house and various workshops where things are still made in the old-fashioned unhurried way. Enjoy a “dégustation” of Berber olive oil whilst tasting the different types of bread and other local produce and we gain an insight into Berber culture and history.
Day 7 Algiers.
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 At Sea.
Spend the day at sea, maybe join a lecture or find a spot on deck.
Day 9 Ghazaouet for Tlemcen.
This morning we reach the western side of Algeria and the port of Ghazaouet located close to the border with Morocco. From here we drive approximately 50 miles inland to Tlemcen, an interesting and cultured city. Our visit will include the 11th century Great Mosque and the deconsecrated Sidi Bel Hassan Mosque which was transformed into a museum in 1901 and houses a selection of mosaics, carvings and pottery. After a local lunch we will continue to El Mansourah to see the remains of an old minaret and El Mechouar, which was built as a citadel in 1145 before it became the royal residence of the Zianide dynasty in the 13th century.
Day 10 Tangiers, Morocco.
Having passed the Straits of Gibraltar this morning we arrive in Tangier at lunchtime. Since Tangier was founded in the 4th century BC, Carthaginians, Romans, Phoenicians, Vandals, Arabs, Spaniards, Portuguese and the English have jealously fought for the right to control it. On an afternoon walking tour we will explore the Medina, see the views from the Kasbah situated at the highest point of Tangiers, visit the museum and then wander through the Grand Souk. Alternatively drive across the beautiful Rif Mountains to Tetouan. Visit the unique School of Art Dar Sanaa which is situated in a former palace and teaches the most traditional of Moroccan crafts to its students before we continue to the Medina which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The ancient medina is full of narrow alleys and streets with vendors selling local handicrafts, foods and spices. Our tour will end at the old Royal Palace, a 17th century building which is itself a reflection of the Hispano-Moresque architecture, and the nearby Hassan II square. Stop to savour the Moroccan tea and fresh pastries at a local Riad in the heart of the Medina before returning to Tangiers.
Day 11 Casablanca to London.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled indirect flight to London.
Dates and Prices
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £300 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY
Prices per person based on double occupancy
| 20 to 30 October 2020 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| 2 Standard Stateroom | £4295 | £3995 |
| 3 Classic Stateroom | £4495 | £4195 |
| 4 Superior Stateroom | £4895 | £4595 |
| 5 Deluxe Stateroom | £5395 | £5095 |
| 6 Junior Suite | £5895 | £5595 |
| 7 Owner’s Suite | £6795 | £6495 |
| 8 Serenissima Suite | £6995 | £6695 |
| 10 Standard Single | £4995 | £4695 |
Tour Reference Code: SCSE201020
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • 10 nights aboard the MS Serenissima on a full board basis • House wine, beer & soft drinks with lunch & dinner on board • Noble Caledonia onboard team including Guest Speaker • Shore excursions • Gratuities • Transfers • Algeria group visa • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
Please note: We have included a group visa for Algeria in the price which covers all participants for the included tours described. For any passengers wishing to explore independently whilst in Algeria, you will need to arrange a visa before arrival through the Algerian embassy which can take around four weeks to process.
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Deckplan
Serenissima
The charming MS Serenissima began her career as the Harald Jarl, cruising the Norwegian coastline and fjords. Extensively renovated in 2003 she was rechristened MS Andrea and began her life as a classic cruise ship, and was chartered by Noble Caledonia for a number of years. In spring 2012 MS Andrea was purchased by our longstanding associates Volga Dream and renamed the MS Serenissima. After a thorough renovation and upgrading, the charming MS Serenissima commenced cruise operations in April 2013 and we have chartered her for the majority of each year since knowing her to be perfect for small ship cruising. 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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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 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 and in November 2019 further refurbishments were completed including the cabins on Decks 3 & 4, the reception area and the Venice Restaurant. 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.
VESSEL TECHNICAL DETAILS
Number of crew: 52
Beam: 43.6 feet
Draft: 15.5 feet
Length: 286 feet
Gross tonnage: 2598 tonnes
Classification: CRS
Cruising Speed: 14 knots
Built: 1960
Refurbished: 2018 & 2019
Registered: St Vincent & GrenadinesAIR-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 cabins 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 • Minibar (Serenissima Suites only) • Balcony (Serenissima Suites only) • Dressing gown 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 at 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 & 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 not all dietary requests can be guaranteed.
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/suite 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.
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 sanitisers 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.
LIFT
There is a lift on board that serves decks 3 to 6. Please note that, due to the layout of the ship, the following cabins are accessible by at least one flight of stairs: 417 – 421, 424 & 701 – 704.
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.
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 & 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.
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. • 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 AUDIO SYSTEM
During our excursions, we use an audio headset 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 & 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.
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
Previously the MS Serenissima used 200 plastic bottles of water every day. In order to help reduce the damage caused to the environment by waste plastic, we are replacing plastic water bottles where possible with eco-friendly, reusable water bottles. We have chosen stainless steel bottles, made of durable, high quality stainless steel. It will keep your drink fresh and cool for longer and fit neatly into your bag or backpack. You can fill it up from the water station on board, located in Reception area, deck 5. We recommend that you do not drink nor refill your bottles from the tap in your cabin. The tap water is not potable. The bottle in your cabin is for your personal use during the cruise to take on excursions. Please leave the bottle/s in your cabin at the end of the cruise.
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 BE ADVISED: These details should be used as a guideline only. Information is subject to change.
V.6 December 2019
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Deck plans
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Deckplan
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Deckplan
Travelling with You
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Chris Bradley
Chris Bradley has lived and worked in North Africa and the Middle East for over 40 years. He is now an Arts Society lecturer and professional tour guide having led many tours to Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia, Libya and Egypt. He first visited Algeria in 1985 as a Tour Leader and photographer, with one of his photographs chosen to be the Royal Geographical Society membership card image. His published books include the Berlitz guides to Libya, Cairo, Egypt’s Red Sea, Oman, Abu Dhabi, the Insight Guides to Egypt, Jordan, The Silk Road, Travel Photography and the Discovery Guide to Yemen. Over the years he has been an invited consultant for the United Nations World Tourism Organisation to conduct analysis on tourism developments across North Africa. He is a lecturer to noted societies, such as the Royal Geographical Society, the Royal Scottish Geographical Society and the Australian Decorative and Fine Arts Societies. He has been a cameraman and producer on many television documentaries for the BBC, Channel 4 and National Geographic TV. In Morocco he developed and filmed ‘Atlas Biker’ which was Nicholas Crane’s first television adventure documentary. His talks on this cruise will help to uncover the rich layers of North African and Mediterranean history from pre-history through the classical era to the modern day, including the Roman period whose contemporary mosaics give us a fascinating insight into Roman life in Malta, Sicily, Algeria and Morocco.
Chris Bradley will be on the following tour dates: 20 to 30 October 2020
Travelling with You
Chris Bradley - Guest Speaker
Chris Brandley is an Arts Society lecturer who specialises in the Middle East and North Africa having lived and worked in the region for over 40 years. As a professional tour guide and lecturer he has led many tours in Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia, Libya and Egypt and his books include the Berlitz guides to Libya; Cairo; Egypt’s Red Sea; Oman; Abu Dhabi; the Insight Guides to Egypt; Jordan; The Silk Road; Travel Photography, and the Discovery Guide to Yemen.
In the early 2000s he was an invited consultant for the United Nations World Tourism Organisation analysis on tourism development of Libya helping to open the country to tourism for more than a decade. He still leads several tours each year to a variety of destinations, designing many specialist itineraries. He is also a lecturer to noted societies, such as the Royal Geographical Society, the Royal Scottish Geographical Society and the Australian Decorative and Fine Arts Societies.
He has been a cameraman and producer on many television documentaries films for the BBC, Channel 4 and National Geographic TV. In Morocco he developed and filmed Atlas Biker which became Nicholas Cranes first television adventure documentary.
His lectures on this cruise will feature archive photographs to help uncover the rich layers of North African and Mediterranean history from pre-history through the classical era to the modern day. In particular he will be focussing on the Roman period whose contemporary mosaics give us a fascinating insight into Roman life in Sicily, Algeria and Morocco.
Chris Bradley will be on the following tour dates: 20 to 30 October 2020
Tour Extensions
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If you would like to spend some time in Malta before embarking the MS Serenissima we are offering a two night stay at a centrally located hotel and the opportunity to explore Valletta and the surrounding area.
Valletta Harbour
The Itinerary
Day 1 London to Malta.
Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to our hotel for an overnight stay and spend the remainder of the day at leisure. Meet 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. 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 which was once the fortified capital of the island before the arrival of the Knights. We will have lunch in one of the local restaurants before transferring to the MS Serenissima.
Prices per person based on double occupancy
18 to 20 October 2020 Category Price Twin £545 Single £895 Price Includes: Two nights hotel accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis, tours as described, dinner on day 1, lunch on day 3, Tour Manager, gratuities, transfers.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
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After disembarking in Casablanca we are offering the opportunity to extend your time in Morocco with a two night stay in the “Red City” of Marrakech.
Koutoubia Mosque, Marrakech
The Itinerary
Day 1 Casablanca to Marrakech, Morocco.
Disembark the MS Serenissima this morning and enjoy a brief orientation drive around Casablanca. On arrival in Marrakech we will have lunch before checking into our hotel. Later we will have time to wander in the souks and visit Jemaa El Fna, the main square. Tonight we will meet for dinner in the hotel.
Day 2 Marrakech.
This morning we visit the 19th century Bahia Palace where we see the intricate work undertaken by the local artisans on wood, plaster and tile to decorate this splendid home and garden. Continue to the 16th century El Badi Palace and admire what remains of its huge, four part garden and amazing architecture before arriving at the Majorelle Garden which houses a collection of plants from the four corners of the earth, flourishing amongst elegant ornamental ponds. Return to the hotel and spend the afternoon and evening at leisure.
Day 3 Marrakech to London.
Check out this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London.
Prices per person based on double occupancy
30 October to 1 November 2020 Category Price Twin £695 Single £995 PRICE INCLUDES: Two nights hotel accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis, tours as described, lunch and dinner on day 1, Tour Manager, gratuities, transfers.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
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Also of Interest
Glories of Sicily
A circumnavigation of Sicily aboard the MS Serenissima
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £300 PER PERSON
Serenissima
Serenissima
Itinerary at a glance
- Malta / Piazza Armerina / Agrigento / Trapani / Palermo / Messina /Taormina / Catania / Syracuse /Noto
8 nights
from
£3795
Next Departure
15 September 2020
Albania & Greece through the eyes of Byron
A journey along the Ionian Sea coast aboard the MS Monet
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £200 PER PERSON
Monet
Monet
Itinerary at a glance
- Tirana / Vlore / Sarande / Igoumenitsa / Argostoli / Messolonghi / Delphi / Corinth / Lavrion / Athens
9 nights
from
£3145
Next Departure
22 October 2020
Treasures of Sicily
A circumnavigation of Sicily with Guest Speaker Rear Admiral John Lippiett aboard the MS Monet
SPECIAL OFFER - SAVE £200 PER PERSON
Monet
Monet
Itinerary at a glance
- Valletta / Piazza Armerina / Agrigento / Valley of the Temples / Mazaro del Vallo / Trapani / Palermo / Cefalu / Messina / Syracuse / Catania
10 nights
from
£4095
Next Departure
5 May 2021
La Dolce Vita
A voyage from Malta to Bari aboard Sea Cloud II with Guest Speaker Dr Steve Kershaw
SPECIAL OFFER - SAVE £400 PER PERSON
Sea Cloud II
Sea Cloud II
Itinerary at a glance
- Malta / Agrigento / Valley of the Temples / Syracuse / Taormina / Crotone / Taranto / Otranto / Monopoli / Bari
8 nights
from
£4995
Next Departure
7 June 2021
Voyage from Mallorca to Malta
A journey of discovery from Mallorca to Malta including an exploration of Sicily
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE UP TO £750 PER PERSON
Hebridean Sky
Hebridean Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Palma / Mahon /Alghero / L'Ile Rousse / Calvi / POrtoferraio / Bonifacio / Naples / Trapani / Palermo / Taormina / Syracuse / Not / Ragusa / Agrigento / Valley of the Temples / Piazza Armerina / Malta
15 nights
from
£7495
Next Departure
19 September 2021
Sicilian Odyssey
A voyage from the Bay of Naples to Malta including an exploration of Sicily aboard the MS Hebridean Sky
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £200 PER PERSON
Hebridean Sky
Hebridean Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Naples / Trapani / Palermo / Taormina / Syracusa / Noto / Ragusa / Agrigento / Valley of the Temples / Piazza Armerina / Malta
8 nights
from
£4195
Next Departure
26 September 2021
Passage to Morocco
A voyage from Sicily to Morocco including Algeria aboard the MS Hebridean Sky with Guest Speaker Chris Bradley
SPECIAL OFFER - SAVE £300 PER PERSON
Hebridean Sky
Hebridean Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Valletta / Agrigento / Valley of the Temples / Trapani / Cagliari / Bejaia / Algiers / Ghazaouet / Tangier / Casablanca
9 nights
from
£4495
Next Departure
4 October 2021
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