September in the Mediterranean
A voyage of discovery from Mallorca to the Bay of Naples with Guest Speaker John Lippiett aboard the MS Hebridean Sky
- 19 September 2021
"From time to time we may pass a huge cruise liner and at moments like this we can be thankful that we are able to visit atmospheric ports and villages which the big ships cannot access."
There are of course no shortages of cruise vessels plying the major ports and cities of the Mediterranean, but few are inclined to focus on the islands as we have done with this delightful journey from Mallorca to Naples aboard the MS Hebridean Sky. Our intention has been to design a voyage as if it were to be undertaken on a small private yacht, staying away from the larger commercial centres and concentrating on some of the most picturesque and interesting places in the region.
Late summer is the perfect time for our voyage, when the crowds of August have dispersed but the weather is perfect for touring and sightseeing. We have created our itinerary to combine time in the islands of the Balearics, Sardinia, Corsica and Elba, all of which are easy to visit individually but difficult to combine independently, before ending our voyage in Naples with an afternoon exploration of Herculaneum. We will have time on each island to see the main sites but also to explore some of the smaller ports and less visited destinations and have ensured that each day has an enjoyable mix of culture with some time at leisure for independent exploration.
In addition to exploring fascinating ports of call we have the pleasure of cruising aboard the MS Hebridean Sky. From time to time we may pass a huge cruise liner and at moments like this we can be thankful that with just 118 passengers, we are able to visit atmospheric ports and villages which the big ships cannot access. We will discover timeless islands with their aura of history, unique island lifestyles and spectacular beauty which will capture our hearts as we travel a less well trodden path across the Mediterranean.
Useful links & Travel Advice
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Hebridean Sky
The MS Hebridean Sky is one of our two flag ships and sister vessel to the MS Island Sky. Both vessels were built in the same ship yard in Italy at similar times and share the same excellent attributes that make them three of the finest small ships in the world. Formerly known as the Sea Explorer, the vessel underwent a multi-million pound refurbishment in Sweden in Spring 2016 before being re-launched as the MS Hebridean Sky.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Palma, Mallorca.
Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to the MS Hebridean Sky. Enjoy welcome drinks and dinner as we sail this evening.
Day 2 Mahon, Menorca.
Over breakfast we arrive in Menorca, the most northerly of the Balearics and the least dedicated to tourism. The island offers pastoral countryside, historic towns and superb beaches. This morning choose to join an island drive including the mysterious rock mounds (talayots) and megalithic stone monuments which were erected some 4,000 years ago before making our way to aristocratic Ciudadella, the architectural showpiece of Menorca. Situated at the head of a long channel from the sea, the city has had its share of disputes over sovereignty, and its character reflects the influence of Moorish, Turkish and Spanish rule. Alternatively, spend the morning exploring the pretty harbour town of Mahon at your own pace. Return to the MS Hebridean Sky for lunch and enjoy an afternoon at sea as we sail to Sardinia.
Day 3 Alghero, Sardinia.
The Medieval city of Alghero was colonised by the Catalans in the 14th century and today there is still a strong Catalan identity throughout the town, and it is often even referred to as “Barceloneta”. We will use the attractive port as our base for a day of exploration in the region. This morning’s panoramic drive takes us to Nuraghe Palmavera with its main tower of the Nuraghe, which still has its domeshaped ceiling that dates back to 1100 years BC. The complex, which was abandoned in the 5th century BC due to fire, shows the different phases of social life and political organisation of the tribal community. We return to Alghero for lunch on board and the afternoon is free to explore the town at your own pace. Maybe enjoy a walk through the Medieval streets and along the city walls or visit the archaeological museum before we sail in the early evening. Please note that we will be at anchor today and will use the vessel’s Zodiacs or local tender to transfer ashore.
Day 4 L’Ile Rousse & Calvi, Corsica.
Arrive this morning in Corsica and the prosperous Balagne region of the island. A morning tour will take us to Calvi where our guide will lead us through the alleyways and cobbled streets before continuing to the imposing citadel. Built by the Genoese, this 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. This afternoon, 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, figs and over 100 varieties of olive trees. Alternatively, spend some time exploring L’ile Rousse at your own pace.
Day 5 Portoferraio, Elba.
Today we call into the enchanting island of Elba, best known as Napoleon’s island of exile from 1814 to 1815. Departing from the island’s busy capital Portoferraio, we set out for a delightful drive exploring the southern region of this charming island with superb views over the coastline. The first stop will be 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 the 17th century country wine farm, La Chiusa which is beautifully nestled in a vineyard estate surrounded by olive trees and overlooking the ocean. As any self-respecting mansion on Elba, La Chiusa claims to have once housed Napoleon during his exile here. Experience the estate’s interesting cellar to learn how the wine is handled and produced and in the estate’s garden facing the sea we will enjoy a delicious sampling of the local wine. Return to the ship for lunch and enjoy an afternoon at leisure in Portoferraio.
Day 6 Bonifacio, Corsica.
Return to Corsica and Bonifacio’s stunning natural harbour. Well known by Odysseus as the home of the savage and giant laestrygonians, today Bonifacio’s breathtaking cliff-top setting and relaxed pace make it one of the most welcoming ports in the Mediterranean. On our morning tour we will explore the narrow streets and the historical heart of the town. We will discover the Bosco quarter with the St Francis Convent, the 14th century church of St Marie Majeure and take in the views from the clifftop on which the city is built. Return to the ship for lunch and enjoy the afternoon in port to explore further at your own pace. Maybe take a local boat ride to the Lavezzi Islands or a walk in the nearby Marine Park which offers some stunning views.
Day 7 Naples, Italy.
After a morning at sea we arrive in Naples at lunchtime and see the Norman castle that protects the port and the backdrop of Vesuvius in the distance. An afternoon tour will visit Herculaneum, a wealthy Roman town which was completely submerged by volcanic mud following the 79 AD eruption of Vesuvius. Since its rediscovery in 1709, excavations have revealed beautiful public baths, villas and gardens of noble families, decorated with murals and floor mosaics, and the remains of a theatre. Return to the ship this afternoon as we moor overnight.
Day 8 Naples to London.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London.
Combined Voyage - Mallorca to Malta 19th September to 4th October 2021
It is possible to combine this voyage with the following one from Naples to Malta, click here for full details.
Dates and Prices
19 to 26 September 2021 | ||
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Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
Amundsen Deck Standard Suite | £3995 | £3795 |
Byrd Deck Superior Suite | £4195 | £3995 |
Mawson Deck Premium Suite | £4395 | £4195 |
Mawson Deck Corner Suite | £4795 | £4595 |
Scott Deck Deluxe Balcony Suite | £5195 | £4995 |
Shackleton Deck Owner's Balcony Suite | £5495 | £5295 |
Shackleton Deck Hebridean Suite | £5995 | £5795 |
Amundsen Deck Standard for sole use | £5295 | £5095 |
Byrd Deck Superior for sole use | £5595 | £5395 |
Tour Reference Code: SCHKS190921
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Seven nights aboard the MS Hebridean Sky on a full board basis • Wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner • Shore excursions • Onboard team including Guest Speaker • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
Combined Voyage - Mallorca to Malta 19th September to 4th October 2021
It is possible to combine this voyage with the following one from Naples to Malta, click here for full details.
Hebridean Sky
The MS Hebridean Sky is one of our two flag ships and sister vessel to the MS Island Sky. Both vessels were built in the same ship yard in Italy at similar times and share the same excellent attributes that make them three of the finest small ships in the world. Formerly known as the Sea Explorer, the vessel underwent a multi-million pound refurbishment in Sweden in Spring 2016 before being re-launched as the MS Hebridean Sky.
Travelling with You
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Rear Admiral John Lippiett
John Lippiett had a 36 year career in the Royal Navy, serving in a large number of ships from aircraft carriers to minesweepers and deployed to all of the world’s operational theatres. He was second-in-command of the frigate HMS Ambuscade throughout the Falklands War, and his book “War and Peas; Intimate letters from the Falklands War” was broadcast on BBC’s Today programme for the 25th anniversary. John commanded three ships, a Frigate Squadron, and then the School of Maritime Warfare. On promotion to Rear Admiral, he flew his Flag at sea as Flag Officer Sea Training before serving in Naples as Chief of Staff of the NATO maritime forces in the Mediterranean. His final posting was as the Commandant of the Joint Services Command and Staff College. John retired and for nearly 13 years was the Chief Executive of the Mary Rose Trust, during which time he led the project to build the award-winning new museum and ensure Henry VIII’s flagship is conserved and displayed for future generations. John retired from the Mary Rose Trust in 2016 and spends much time back at sea as a speaker on maritime history - and this time with his wife Jenny. He much enjoys telling the stories both of exploration, often using old maps, and of naval ventures that have taken place on the world’s oceans over the last two thousand years.
Rear Admiral John Lippiett will be on the following tour dates: 19 to 26 September 2021
Tour Extensions
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Before embarking the MS Hebridean Sky we are offering the opportunity to join a two night extension in Mallorca including a city tour and full day excursion to the charming towns of Soller and Valldemossa as well as time to explore at leisure.
Palma de Mallorca
The Itinerary
Day 1 London to Palma, Mallorca.
Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to our hotel for a two night stay and spend the remainder of the day at leisure. Meet this evening for dinner at the hotel.
Day 2 Palma.
After breakfast, join a guided walking tour of the city’s highlights. Visit Palma’s most impressive landmark and Spain’s second largest Gothic style cathedral. The central apse contains the high Chapel of Trinity, where the tombs of the Kings of Mallorca are located. During our walking tour, discover the avenues and a maze of quaint streets with shops and cafes. We pass by the Royal Palace, the fishing harbour and the city walls. Enjoy some free time in the city centre before returning to the hotel with the remainder of the day at leisure.
Day 3 Palma, Soller & Valldemossa.
Check out after breakfast. Today we will take the beautifully maintained vintage train that connects Palma with the pretty town of Soller on the island’s west coast and enjoy splendid mountain views of the Serra de Tramuntana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Over the course of just seven kilometres the railway rises 199 metres and runs through thirteen tunnels and crosses several bridges. We will enjoy some time to explore Soller before taking a scenic drive to the village of Valldemossa. With a population of around 2,000, Valldemossa is a quiet and traditional town with narrow streets and lanes constructed with blonde stone. Each doorway and street is lined with beautiful green plants and flowers making the town one of the most attractive in Mallorca. We will enjoy a walk around the town and lunch at a local restaurant before embarking the MS Hebridean Sky later this afternoon.
Prices per person based on double occupancy
17 to 19 September 2021 Category Price Twin £945 Single £1395 Price Includes: Two nights hotel accommodation with breakfast, tours as described, lunch on day 3, dinner on day 1, Tour Manager, gratuities, transfers.
Not Included: Travel insurance, meals not mentioned in the itinerary.
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