Voyage from Mallorca to Malta
A journey of discovery from Mallorca to Malta including an exploration of Sicily on MS Hebridean Sky
- 19 September 2021
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 Malta 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.
We have created our itinerary to combine time in the islands of the Balearics, Sardinia, Corsica and Elba as well as including an in-depth exploration of Sicily, all of which are easy to visit individually but difficult to combine independently. 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, ensuring that each day has an enjoyable mix of culture with some time at leisure for independent exploration. The island of Sicily is a celebration of the greatest achievements of Mediterranean cultures and with such a wealth of ancient sites it is certainly not somewhere which should be visited in a hurry. We have the benefit of seven full days exploring the island and with the luxury of time we are able to visit the stunning Greek theatre at Taormina, the superbly well-preserved Greek temples of Segesta and the Valle dei Templi, the Norman Royal Palace and Palatine Chapel in Palermo, Byzantine Monreale Cathedral, the Roman mosaics of Villa Romana di Casale as well as the beautiful Baroque villages of Noto and Ragusa.
Added to our fascinating itinerary 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. Our Guest Speaker will contribute greatly to the enjoyment and understanding of these timeless islands which 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
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.
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.
Enjoy a day at leisure to relax on board or explore Naples independently.
Day 9 Trapani, Sicily.
Spend the morning at sea arriving into Trapani over lunch. This was the landing point for Peter of Aragon in 1282 to start the Spanish occupation of Sicily. This afternoon choose to 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 where you can enjoy excellent views of the countryside and distant coastline. Alternatively visit 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.
Day 10 Palermo.
Arrive this morning in the Sicilian capital of Palermo. After breakfast we will explore the city, famous for its jumbled and picturesque streets punctuated with ornate Baroque churches, domed Arab mosques and the glittering Byzantine mosaics that reveal a unique and diverse heritage. We visit the impressive 12th century cathedral which houses the royal tombs of Henri VI and King Ruggiero. Return to the ship for lunch and this afternoon either enjoy some time to explore independently or join an excursion to Monreale Cathedral, said to be the most beautiful Norman Church in Italy, designed and completed by William the Good in 1174. With its thick walls and powerful towers, the exterior looks like an austere fortress yet it is the interior of this great cathedral which is its crowning glory. Here the large nave, with its side aisles and grey granite columns set off the exquisite Byzantine mosaics on the walls above the arches.
Day 11 Messina for Taormina.
From the nearby port of Messina we will visit Taormina, a walled town lying in the shadow of Mount Etna, Europe’s highest volcano. The town has been a popular tourist destination since the 19th century and our guided tour will include walking the characteristic alleys before visiting the 15th century Palazzo Corvaja and the impressive Greek Theatre from where there are marvellous views over the town and coast. Those who wish to spend longer here will be able to take lunch independently in one of the local restaurants and spend an afternoon exploring at leisure before our coach returns to Messina. Alternatively, return to the ship for lunch and enjoy free time in Messina before we sail this evening.
Day 12 Syracuse.
Syracuse was founded by the Greeks in 734 BC and by the 5th century was a political and military power throughout the Mediterranean which rivalled Athens as the largest and most beautiful city in the Greek world. On leaving the vessel we visit the Neapolis Archaeological Park where we will find a well preserved Greek theatre with seats carved from limestone. Paradise Quarry, now an attractive garden and orange grove, was the primary source of that limestone and is the site of the curious ‘Dionysus’ Ear,’ a vast grotto with an amplifying resonance. We will continue to explore the island of Ortigia where we find the Temple of Apollo, considered to be Sicily’s most ancient Doric temple and the Baroque Cathedral, erected over the remains of the Temple of Minerva. The afternoon is free to explore independently before we meet this evening for a private concert in one of the town’s palazzos accompanied by local food and wine.
Day 13 Noto & Ragusa.
From our berth in Pozzallo we will explore the Baroque villages of Noto and Ragusa. Built in 1703 Noto is a picturesque city located on the terraced slopes of Mount Iblei, among olive groves and almond trees. Here we find Sicillian Baroque style palaces and monuments. A quiet walk along the central streets will reveal the 18th century Palazzo Ducezio and some baroque churches: San Francesco Immacolata, the cathedral, San Carlo, Santa Chiara and the imposing Palazzo Nicolaci di Villadorata, built in 1737. We return to the MS Hebridean Sky for lunch and this afternoon continue to charming Ragusa. It has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage list for its artistic architectural heritage with its Baroque palaces, churches, squares, stairways and winding narrow streets, all of which create an evocative and ancient atmosphere. We will discover the wonderful Ragusa Ibla: the “Pearl of the Baroque”, the gardens, the magnificent palaces, the splendid church of San Giuseppe and the Dome of San Giorgio, built in the 18th century on the site where an older church stood before the earthquake of 1693.
Day 14 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, a grouping unique outside Greece. Surrounded in greenery of olive and almond trees, admire the Temple of Hera, the Temple of Concordia, 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 which you can explore at leisure.
Day 15 Licata for Piazza Armerina.
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 winemaking 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 these vineyards and enjoy a chance to sample some wine over a Sicilian lunch.
Day 16 Malta to London.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London.
Combined Voyage
This voyage is a combination of September in the Mediterranean and Sicilian Odyssey.
Dates and Prices
19 September to 4 October 2021 | ||
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Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
Amundsen Deck Standard Suite | £7995 | £7495 |
Byrd Deck Superior Suite | £8295 | £7795 |
Mawson Deck Premium Suite | £8595 | £8095 |
Mawson Deck Corner Suite | £9295 | £8545 |
Scott Deck Deluxe Balcony Suite | £10195 | £9445 |
Shackleton Deck Owner's Balcony Suite | £10895 | £10145 |
Shackleton Deck Hebridean Suite | £11895 | £11145 |
Amundsen Deck Standard for sole use | £10295 | £9795 |
Byrd Deck Superior for sole use | £10895 | £10395 |
Tour Reference Code: SCHKSCOMB
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • 15 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
This voyage is a combination of September in the Mediterranean and Sicilian Odyssey.
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 your 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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If you would like to spend some time in Malta after disembarking the MS Hebridean Sky we are offering a two night stay at the five-star Phoenicia Hotel providing the chance to explore Valletta and the surrounding area.
Valletta Harbour
The Itinerary
Day 1 Valletta, Malta.
After breakfast we will disembark and begin a city tour of Valletta, the 16th century “Fortress City” built by the Knights of St John. Our morning tour will include the highlights of Valletta with its stunning views across the harbour from the Barakka Gardens. We will explore Merchants Street, containing the surviving auberges built by the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem, together with the palace where Napoleon Bonaparte is believed to have stayed in 1798. Our final stop will be at St John’s Cathedral. After lunch we transfer to the Phoenicia Hotel for check in and the remainder of the afternoon and evening are free for independent exploration.
Day 2 Valletta.
A morning tour will take us to Mdina. Originally this city was given the name of “Citta Nobile” and is now known as the “Silent City” at the heart of the island. Mdina 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 before meeting this evening for dinner.
Day 3 Valletta to London.
Check out after breakfast and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London.
Prices per person based on double occupancy
4 to 6 October 2021 Category Price Twin £745 Single £1045 Price Includes: Two nights hotel accommodation with breakfast at the Phoenicia Hotel, Tour Manager, gratuities, transfers, tours as described, lunch on day 1, dinner on day 2.
Not Included: Travel insurance, meals not mentioned in the itinerary.
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Also of Interest
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
Hebridean Sky
Hebridean Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Palma / Mahon / Alghero / L'Ile Rousse / Calvi / Portoferraio / Bonifacio / Naples
Sicilian Odyssey
A voyage from the Bay of Naples to Malta including an exploration of Sicily aboard the MS Hebridean Sky
Hebridean Sky
Hebridean Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Naples / Trapani / Palermo / Taormina / Syracusa / Noto / Ragusa / Agrigento / Valley of the Temples / Piazza Armerina / Malta
Passage through Antiquity
A voyage of discovery visiting Cyprus, Israel, Egypt & Jordan aboard the MS Serenissima with Guest Speaker David Price-Williams
Serenissima
Serenissima
Itinerary at a glance
- Limassol / Haifa / Ashdod / Suez Canal / Cairo / Luxor / Aqaba / Wadi Rum / Petra / Madaba / Dead Sea / Amman
Passage through the Levant
Spend Christmas discovering the wonders of the Eastern Mediterranean aboard the MS Serenissima with Guest Speaker Ernie Rea
Serenissima
Serenissima
Itinerary at a glance
- Antalya / Limassol / Haifa / Ashdod / Suez Canal / Cairo / Luxor / Aqaba
La Dolce Vita & Land of Gods & Heroes
A voyage from Malta to Athens aboard Sea Cloud II with Guest Speaker Dr Steve Kershaw
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
Passage to Andalucia
A late summer voyage from Portsmouth to Malaga aboard the MS Serenissima with Guest Speaker Rear Admiral David Snelson
Serenissima
Serenissima
Itinerary at a glance
- Portsmouth / Guernsey / Herm / Tresco / Belle Ile / Ile de Re / La Rochelle / Vilagarcia de Arousa / Oporto / Lisbon / Cadiz / Malaga
Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000