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.
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. 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
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.
-
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.
Tour Extensions
-
-
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.
-
-
-
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.
-
Also of Interest
Passage through Antiquity - 2020
A voyage of discovery visiting Jordan, Egypt, Israel & Cyprus aboard the MS Serenissima with Guest Speaker Ernie Rea
Serenissima
Serenissima
Itinerary at a glance
- Amman, Jordan
- Dead Sea / Bethany
- Kerak / Little Petra
- Petra
- Wadi Rum / Aqaba
- Aqaba
- Luxor, Egypt
- Cairo
- Suez Canal Transit
- Ashdod, Israel
- Haifa
- Limassol, Cyprus
- Larnaca
Passage from the Peloponnese to Sicily
Discover the Wonders of the Ancient World on a Voyage from Athens to Malta with Guest Speaker Dr Steve Kershaw aboard the MS Serenissima
Serenissima
Serenissima
Itinerary at a glance
- Athens / Piraeus
- Nafplion
- Mystras
- Olympia
- Syracuse, Sicily
- Noto
- Taormina / Tindari
- Palermo
- Mazara del Vallo
- Agrigento
- Piazza Armerina
- Valletta, Malta
Albania & Greece through the eyes of Byron
A journey along the Ionian Sea coast aboard the MS Monet with Guest Speaker George Hart
Monet
Monet
Itinerary at a glance
- Tirana / Vlore / Sarande / Igoumenitsa / Argostoli / Messolonghi / Delphi / Corinth / Lavrion / Athens
Glories of Sicily
A circumnavigation of Sicily aboard the MS Serenissima
Serenissima
Serenissima
Itinerary at a glance
- Malta / Piazza Armerina / Agrigento / Trapani / Palermo / Messina /Taormina / Catania / Syracuse /Noto
La Dolce Vita
A voyage from Malta to Bari aboard Sea Cloud II with Guest Speaker Dr Steve Kershaw
Sea Cloud II
Sea Cloud II
Itinerary at a glance
- Malta / Agrigento / Valley of the Temples / Syracuse / Taormina / Crotone / Taranto / Otranto / Monopoli / Bari
Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000