Passage to Puglia & Beyond
A voyage from Malta to Split aboard the MS Serenissima with Guest Speaker, Ernie Rea
- 14 October 2021
Here is the perfect voyage for those who love Italy, travelling in the company of a small group of like-minded travellers and sailing aboard a delightful small ship with a varied programme of interesting visits ashore. From the historic crossroads island of Malta and its lovely 16th century capital Valletta, we will sail to the wonderful Croatian port of Split, our itinerary taking us off the beaten track to many places that are beyond the reach of the mega-cruise ships. The centrepiece of our voyage is our four days spent sailing around the heel of Italy and discovering Puglia’s many gems. Based on its strategic location, the region was colonised, invaded and conquered for centuries with each dynasty leaving its mark. From prehistoric dwellings and traditional trulli abodes to splendid Baroque architecture and 15th century palazzos, we will explore the region with local guides. As we make our way along the Adriatic coast of Italy and across to Montenegro and Croatia we will call into cities and towns, learning of their intriguing history and witnessing some stunning architecture. A highlight for many will be our exploration of Kotor, Montenegro’s 14th century walled fortress town fronted by a sublime bay and surrounded by limestone cliffs, before arriving for an overnight mooring in the attractive Croatian city of Split, a fitting end to our voyage.
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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. Transfer to the MS Serenissima moored in Valletta and enjoy welcome drinks and dinner on board as we sail this evening.
Day 2 Syracuse & Noto, Italy.
Syracuse was founded by the Greeks in 734 BC and by the 5th century was a political and military power throughout the Mediterranean and 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 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 ‘Dionysius’ 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. This afternoon you can choose to explore independently from our central berth or alternatively join a tour to the beautiful antique town of Noto. Built in 1703 we will see numerous 18th century palaces of incredible architectural value including the Duomo, the Museo Civico and the Convento dei Francescani.
Day 3 Crotone.
After a morning at sea we arrive in Calabria and the port of Crotone which is on the site of the ancient Greek City of Kroton. Whilst little remains of the Greek city it was one of the most important settlements of Magna Graecia, where Pythagoras set up a school in 530 BC and whose athletes were very successful at the Olympic Games. We will take a scenic drive inland this afternoon to Santa Severina, one of Italy’s prettiest towns overlooking the Neto River valley. We will explore the majestic Carafa Castle which was built by the Normans in 1076 and is surrounded by strong, crenellated walls with a moat on three sides and contains intricate underground labyrinths and stables, with the remains of Medieval frescoes. Also see the cathedral, the beautiful Byzantine baptistery and wander the town’s tangled streets. As we return to the ship we will stop at one of the vineyards that produces famous Calabrian wine, Ciro, for a tasting accompanied by typical Calabrian food.
Day 4 Taranto.
Today we arrive in Puglia for our morning tour which will take us into Basilicata as we visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sassi di Matera (stones of Matera). Situated in the old town of Matera, the Sassi are prehistoric dwellings dug into the rock itself and are suspected to be some of the first human settlements in Italy. The site comprises over 1000 buildings including houses, churches, shops, workshops and monasteries covering over 1000 hectares and we will learn more about the history of the town on a walking tour of the labyrinthine streets. Return to the ship for lunch and spend the afternoon at leisure in Taranto. You may want to see the 15th century Aragonese Castle, the 11th century cathedral or the remains of the Poseidon Temple. Afterwards maybe cross the bridge to the newer town and visit the excellent archeological museum.
Day 5 Otranto & Lecce.
From the port of Otranto we will drive to Lecce, often referred to as ‘The Florence of the South’ with its amazing collection of Baroque architecture. A guided walk will include a visit to the beautifully decorated Santa Croce Basilica and Piazza Duomo, considered one of the finest and most impressive squares in southern Italy. We return to the ship for lunch and the afternoon is free to explore Otranto independently, maybe walk the winding streets or along the seaside promenade. The highlight is the wonderful cathedral with its Medieval mosaic floor created by the monk, Pantaleone, between 1163 and 1165. You can also see the Chapel of the Dead which shows the bones and skulls of 813 martyrs killed by the invading Turks in 1480.
Day 6 Monopoli.
Today we drive into the Puglian countryside which is scattered with ‘trulli’, limestone dwellings built with dome or conical roofs. We will enjoy a pleasant walk in Alberobello, a fairy-tale trulli village and a UNESCO World Heritage Site and see the St Anthony Church also built in trullo style. Afterwards we visit ‘Cantina Albea’ and its wine museum, home to pictures and old instruments used in the past for the production of wine and where we will enjoy a tasting along with a talk on the wine production. Return to the ship for lunch and this afternoon is free to return to the old town to explore independently. You may want to wander through the historic centre, visit the cathedral or see the Castello di Carlo V.
Day 7 Kotor, Montenegro.
Be on deck early this morning as we sail through the stunning fjord-like scenery into Kotor. On arrival at our berth, we will take a morning walking tour to explore this Medieval town and UNESCO World Heritage Site. This really is an extraordinary place full of marvellous architecture and pretty town squares. Our walk will include the 12th century Cathedral of St Tryphon, the ancient town gates, the Maritime Museum and Romanesque churches including St Luke’s. Return to the ship for lunch and enjoy the afternoon to explore at your own pace. Those feeling active may wish to take the strenuous climb to the Castle of San Giovanni which offers wonderful views over the bay and town below.
Day 8 Split, Croatia.
After a leisurely morning at sea we arrive in Split. This afternoon we will take a guided walk through the town including the Palace of Diocletian which was built by the emperor in 295-305 AD as his retirement villa. Much of this large building is well preserved and the palace contains Split’s Old Town within its walls, making it the only Roman palace that has been continuously inhabited since Roman times. It is a wonderful spot to wander the maze of streets. We remain moored overnight for anyone wishing to take an after dinner stroll.
Day 9 Split to London.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London.
Dates and Prices
14 to 22 October 2021 | ||
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Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
2 Standard Stateroom | £3595 | £3395 |
3 Classic Stateroom | £3795 | £3595 |
4 Superior Stateroom | £4195 | £3995 |
5 Deluxe Stateroom | £4595 | £4395 |
6 Junior Suite | £5195 | £4995 |
7 Owner’s Suite | £5695 | £5495 |
8 Serenissima Suite | £6095 | £5895 |
10 Standard Single | £4895 | £4695 |
Tour Reference Code: SCSE141021
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Eight nights aboard the MS Serenissima on a full board basis • House wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner • Noble Caledonia onboard team • Shore excursions • Gratuities • Transfers • Airport taxes • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
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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.
Travelling with You
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Ernest Rea
Ernest Rea is a celebrated British broadcaster who specialises on the history of religions and the way that faith impacts on the contemporary world. His regular national radio programme, Beyond Belief, was awarded the prestigious Sony Gold Award for the Best Speech Programme on British Radio.
He worked for the BBC for 22 years in a variety of production and editorial roles. From 1989 to 2001 he was Head of Religious Broadcasting for the BBC responsible for all religious television and radio programmes nationally and locally. During this period, he spent much time in the United States, brokering co-production television deals with leading American broadcasters. He was closely involved in a variety of key national events, including the Funeral Service for Diana, Princess of Wales.
He is in wide demand as a speaker at international inter faith conferences, literary festivals and academic symposia. In 1997 he was personally awarded the Gold Medal of the International Council of Christians and Jews for his contribution to Inter Faith Understanding. He has First Class Honours Degrees in Theology and in History and Politics which helped to fuel his passion for the study of world religions and the way in which they impact on the ancient and modern worlds.
Ernest Rea will be on the following tour dates: 14 to 22 October 2021
Tour Extensions
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If you would like to spend some time in Malta before embarking the MS Serenissima we are offering the opportunity to enjoy a two night stay in Valletta.
Valletta
The Itinerary
Day 1 London to Malta.
Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to our hotel and spend the remainder of the day at leisure. Meet this evening for dinner in the hotel. (D)
Day 2 Valletta.
Enjoy a morning walking tour of Valletta, the 16th century “Fortress City” built by the Knights of St John. Our 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. The afternoon and evening are free for independent exploration. (B)
Day 3 Valletta.
This morning we will tour the city of 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. We enjoy a lunch in one of the local restaurants before transferring to the MS Serenissima moored in Valletta. (B, L)
Prices per person based on double occupancy
12 to 14 October 2021 Category Price Twin £695 Single £945 Price Includes: Two nights hotel accommodation, meals as indicated (B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dinner), tours as described, Noble Caledonia Tour Manager, gratuities, transfers.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
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Also of Interest
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Sicilian Odyssey
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Itinerary at a glance
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Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000