Anyone who has sailed through the Aegean and along the Adriatic Coast will tell you that it is one of the most beautiful places on earth. The combined effect of the natural beauty with the intriguing history and stunning architecture of the towns and cities makes for a fascinating voyage. During our voyage between Athens and Split, we will sail through turquoise waters, admire rugged landscapes and visit some of the region’s greatest sites in the company of our knowledgeable Guest Speaker.
This is not an itinerary that a large cruise ship could operate but one which is ideal for the 50-passenger MS Monet. Our fascinating cruise begins with a transit of the remarkable Corinth Canal after which we will explore the Peloponnese including a visit to the ancient Sanctuary of Apollo in Delphi. We will discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Butrint in Albania, whose ruins span some 2,500 years and arriving at the heel of Italy we will explore some of Puglia’s gems. Sailing across to Montenegro a highlight for many will be our arrival into Kotor, a 14th century walled fortress town fronted by a sublime bay and surrounded by limestone cliffs. Our final days will be spent in Croatia including visits to Dubrovnik and the delightful islands of Brac and Korcula before our voyage ends in the historic city of Split.
The rich legacy of multiple civilisations, each building atop another, is evident everywhere during our itinerary and our guided trips ashore will be a pleasure as we explore in small groups with our excellent local guides. Whether your interest lies in ancient history, modern politics or simply the joy of experiencing new places, this journey has much to offer.
Monet
We are delighted to have chartered the MS Monet, a 220 foot motor yacht accommodating a maximum of 50 guests. Originally built in 1970, MS Monet was converted and launched as a passenger ship in 1998, fully renovated in 2016 and upgraded again in 2018. If you find large resort style vessels accommodating many thousands of passengers attractive then of course this isn’t the vessel for you. However, if you prefer an informal and warm atmosphere more akin to a private yacht combined with an itinerary dedicated to both discovery and relaxation then you need look no further.
June Itinerary
Day 1 London to Athens, Greece.
Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to the MS Monet and embark. Enjoy welcome drinks and dinner as we moor overnight.
Day 2 Corinth Canal & Itea.
Be on deck this morning as we transit the Corinth Canal. Completed in 1893 and only 6.4 kilometres long and 21.5 metres wide, it is only small ships like ours which can now make this journey. Later we arrive into the port of Itea from where we visit the sacred site of Delphi, one of Greece’s most important sites of antiquity. The hillside ruins here are exceptional and we will explore the Sanctuary of Apollo, the site of the sacred Delphic Oracle and walk along Delphi’s Sacred Way, visiting the Treasury of the Athenians and the 5,000 seat theatre dating from the 4th century BC. Alternatively, enjoy some free time in Itea or visit one of the nearby beaches.
Day 3 Argostoli, Kefalonia.
The largest of the Ionian Islands, Kefalonia is immortalised in the novel Captain Corelli’s Mandolin and has great charm. From our berth in Argostoli we have a choice of excursions today. A half day tour will drive to the famous lighthouse of Agioi Theodori, the remarkable Venetian castle of Saint George, and the 16th century Monastery of Agios Gerasimos. St Gerasimos is the patron saint of Kefalonia, and his relic is kept in the monastery in a silver urn. Near to the monastery we find the Robala vineyards. Wines have been grown here since the 12th century and we will learn about the processes and enjoy a tasting before we return to the ship. The afternoon is free to explore the town of Argostoli. Alternatively, a full day tour will drive to the north of the island passing the famous Myrtos beach as we drive to the village of Assos. With just 100 residents it is one of the most charming spots on the island. Built on a small peninsula the town is dominated by the ruins of a 16th century Venetian castle. After time to wander the streets viewing the traditional architecture, pretty harbour and pebbled beaches we continue to the small port of Fiskardo which curves serenely beside coral-blue waters, gazing out towards Ithaki. Thanks to its colourful crop of Venetian villas, spared from earthquake damage because they rest on a sturdy bed of flat rock, Fiskardo is home to upscale restaurants built around the small harbour where yachts jostle for space to dock. After lunch in the port and some free time to explore we return to the MS Monet.
Day 4 Preveza.
Sail to the port of Preveza from where we head for the little known ancient city of Nikopolis, one of the largest and most important sites in the whole of Greece. Built by the Roman Emperor Octavianus Augustus following his victory at Aktiun in 31 BC over Antony and Cleopatra, inside its extensive walls are the Odeum, the Theatre, the Nymphaeum and the monument to Augustus. Later, the city flourished in the early Christian period as the seat of the archbishop of old Epiros, but earthquakes and invading Goths and Vandals led to its demise. Returning to the ship for lunch, the afternoon is free to explore this pretty, yacht-lined harbour town.
Day 5 Sarande, Albania.
The port of Sarande is our base to discover the ancient city of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On a guided tour explore the ruins that feature the remains of many eras and cultures. From the Hellenistic period there are temples, the promenade and the 4th century BC theatre. From the Roman era are the public baths, gymnasium, and fountains. From the Byzantine era we see chapels and the large Basilica of St Peter and St Paul, whilst the Venetians are represented by a watchtower and a small castle with commanding views over the Straits of Corfu. Return to the ship for lunch and spend the afternoon exploring at your own pace.
Day 6 Otranto & Lecce, Italy.
After breakfast 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 7 Monopoli.
From our berth in Monopoli we have the option to 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 St Anthony Church also built in trullo style. Alternatively, spend the morning in charming Monopoli where you can wander through the historic centre, visit the cathedral or see the Castello di Carlo V. Return to the ship for lunch and an afternoon at sea as we cross the Adriatic Sea.
Day 8 Kotor, Montenegro.
Over breakfast we enter the Gulf of Kotor and sail up the fjord-like entrance to the Medieval town and UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kotor. 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 9 Dubrovnik, Croatia.
Dubrovnik is a breathtaking sight and its many historic and cultural treasures have earned it the designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded by the Romans in the 7th century, it eventually came under the influence of the Byzantine Empire, then Venice, Hungary and finally Turkey. This morning our local guides will lead us through the bustling old town taking in the beautiful civic buildings, the Rector’s Palace, the Romanesque-Gothic Dominican and Franciscan Monasteries and the Sponza Palace. This afternoon is free to relax on board or explore independently. Maybe take a walk on the city walls or ride the cable car up Mount Srd for the wonderful views over the city.
Day 10 Korcula.
Spend the day on the island of Korcula, the reputed birthplace of the explorer Marco Polo. A morning guided tour will include a walk along Korcula’s crooked Medieval streets revealing elegant squares flanked with palaces of the old nobility. After lunch on board we drive to the interior of the island, past olive groves and vineyards offering views down to the coast below. On our visit to a winery we will learn more about the, mainly white, wines that have been cultivated on the island for centuries before enjoying a tasting.
Day 11 Brac & Split.
Awake on the island of Brac and the attractive port of Pucisca located at the end of a long bay. Brac is world renowned for the quality of its stone which was used for the Diocletian’s Palace in Split as well as the White House in Washington and other parliament buildings in Europe. Spend the morning in the charming small town, voted one of the prettiest in Europe, where the buildings’ white roofs create an ambient atmosphere. Over lunch we sail the short distance to Split where a guided walk includes the Diocletian’s Palace, 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 moor overnight for anyone wishing to take an after dinner stroll.
Day 12 Split to London.
Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for the return scheduled flight to London.
September Itinerary
Day 1 London to Split, Croatia.
Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to the MS Monet and embark. Enjoy welcome drinks and dinner as we moor overnight.
Day 2 Split & Brac.
A morning guided walk includes the Diocletian’s Palace, 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 sail over lunch to the island of Brac and the attractive port of Pucisca located at the end of a long bay. Brac is world renowned for the quality of its stone which was used for the Diocletian’s Palace in Split as well as the White House in Washington and other parliament buildings in Europe. Spend a few hours in the charming small town, voted one of the prettiest in Europe, where the buildings’ white roofs create an ambient atmosphere.
Day 3 Korcula.
Spend the day on the island of Korcula, the reputed birthplace of the explorer Marco Polo. A morning guided tour will include a walk along Korcula’s crooked Medieval streets revealing elegant squares flanked with palaces of the old nobility. After lunch on board we drive to the interior of the island, past olive groves and vineyards offering views down to the coast below. On our visit to a winery we will learn more about the mainly white wines that have been cultivated on the island for centuries before enjoying a tasting.
Day 4 Dubrovnik, Croatia.
Dubrovnik is a breathtaking sight and its many historic and cultural treasures have earned it the designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded by the Romans in the 7th century, it eventually came under the influence of the Byzantine Empire, then Venice, Hungary and finally Turkey. This morning our local guides will lead us through the bustling old town taking in the beautiful civic buildings, the Rector’s Palace, the Romanesque-Gothic Dominican and Franciscan Monasteries and the Sponza Palace. This afternoon is free to relax on board or explore independently. Maybe take a walk on the city walls or ride the cable car up Mount Srd for the wonderful views over the city
Day 5 Kotor, Montenegro.
Over breakfast we enter the Gulf of Kotor and sail up the fjord-like entrance to the Medieval town and UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kotor. 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 6 Monopoli, Italy.
Spend the morning at sea as we cross the Adriatic Sea to Italy. From our berth in Monopoli we have the option to 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 St Anthony Church also built in trullo style. Alternatively spend the afternoon in charming Monopoli where you can wander through the historic centre, visit the cathedral or see the Castello di Carlo V.
Day 7 Otranto & Lecce.
After breakfast 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 8 Sarande, Albania.
The port of Sarande is our base to discover the ancient city of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On a guided tour explore the ruins that feature the remains of many eras and cultures. From the Hellenistic period there are temples, the promenade and the 4th century BC theatre. From the Roman era are the public baths, gymnasium and fountains. From the Byzantine era we see chapels and the large Basilica of St Peter and St Paul, whilst the Venetians are represented by a watchtower and a small castle with commanding views over the Straits of Corfu. Return to the ship for lunch and spend the afternoon exploring at your own pace.
Day 9 Preveza, Greece.
We arrive into Greece at the port of Preveza from where we head for the little known ancient city of Nikopolis, one of the largest and most important sites in the whole of Greece. Built by the Roman Emperor Octavianus Augustus following his victory at Aktiun in 31 BC over Antony and Cleopatra, inside its extensive walls are the Odeum, the Theatre, the Nymphaeum and the monument to Augustus. Later, the city flourished in the early Christian period as the seat of the archbishop of old Epiros, but earthquakes and invading Goths and Vandals led to its demise. Returning to the ship for lunch the afternoon is free to explore this pretty, yacht lined harbour town.
Day 10 Argostoli, Kefalonia.
The largest of the Ionian Islands, Kefalonia is immortalised in the novel Captain Corelli’s Mandolin and has great charm. From our berth in Argostoli we have a choice of excursions. A half day tour will drive to the famous lighthouse of Agioi Theodori, the remarkable Venetian castle of Saint George and the 16th century Monastery of Agios Gerasimos. St Gerasimos is the patron saint of Kefalonia, and his relic is kept in the monastery, in a silver urn. Near to the monastery we find the Robala vineyards. Wines have been grown here since the 12th century and we will learn about the processes and enjoy a tasting before we return to the ship. The afternoon is free to explore the town of Argostoli. Alternatively, a full day tour will drive to the north of the island passing the famous Myrtos beach as we drive to the village of Assos. With just 100 residents it is one of the most charming spots on the island. Built on a small peninsula the town dominated by the ruins of a 16th century Venetian castle. After time to wander the streets viewing the traditional architecture, pretty harbour and pebbled beaches we continue to the small port of Fiskardo which curves serenely beside coral-blue waters, gazing out towards Ithaki. Thanks to its colourful crop of Venetian villas, spared from earthquake damage because they rest on a sturdy bed of flat rock, Fiskardo is home to upscale restaurants built around the small harbour where yachts jostle for space to dock. After lunch in the port and some free time to explore we return to the MS Monet.
Day 11 Itea & Corinth Canal.
The port of Itea is our gateway to the sacred site of Delphi, one of Greece’s most important sites of antiquity. The hillside ruins here are exceptional and we will explore the Sanctuary of Apollo, the site of the sacred Delphic Oracle and walk along Delphi’s Sacred Way, visiting the Treasury of the Athenians and the 5000 seat theatre dating from the 4th century BC. Alternatively, enjoy some free time in Itea or visit one of the nearby beaches. Sail over lunch and in the late afternoon we transit the Corinth Canal. Completed in 1893 and only 6.4 kilometres long and 21.5 metres wide, it is only small ships like ours which can now make this journey. We will arrive into Piraeus late this evening and berth overnight.
Day 12 Athens to London.
Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for the return scheduled flight to London.
Dates and Prices
June Itinerary
Prices per person based on double occupancy24 June to 5 July 2025 | ||
---|---|---|
Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
D Twin/Double with portholes on Camille/Parisien Deck | £5195 | £4995 |
C Twin/Double with windows on Parisien/Lumiere Deck | £5595 | £5395 |
B Superior Double with windows on Lumiere Deck | £6295 | £6095 |
A Deluxe Double with windows on Lumiere Deck | £6795 | £6595 |
D Twin/Double with portholes on Camille/Parisien Deck for sole use | £6995 | £6795 |
September Itinerary
Prices per person based on double occupancy2 to 13 September 2025 | ||
---|---|---|
Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
D Twin/Double with portholes on Camille/Parisien Deck | £5195 | £4995 |
C Twin/Double with windows on Parisien/Lumiere Deck | £5595 | £5395 |
B Superior Double with windows on Lumiere Deck | £6295 | £6095 |
A Deluxe Double with windows on Lumiere Deck | £6795 | £6595 |
D Twin/Double with portholes on Camille/Parisien Deck for sole use | £6995 | £6795 |
Tour Reference Code: SCMO240625/SCMO020925
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • 11 nights aboard the MS Monet on a full board basis • House wine, beer & soft drinks with lunch and dinner • Noble Caledonia onboard team including Guest Speaker • Shore excursions • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
Monet
We are delighted to have chartered the MS Monet, a 220 foot motor yacht accommodating a maximum of 50 guests. Originally built in 1970, MS Monet was converted and launched as a passenger ship in 1998, fully renovated in 2016 and upgraded again in 2018. If you find large resort style vessels accommodating many thousands of passengers attractive then of course this isn’t the vessel for you. However, if you prefer an informal and warm atmosphere more akin to a private yacht combined with an itinerary dedicated to both discovery and relaxation then you need look no further.
Travelling with You
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Professor Andrew Wallace-Hadrill
Andrew Wallace-Hadrill, OBE, FBA is an Emeritus Professor of Roman Studies in the Faculty of Classics at the University of Cambridge, and an Emeritus Fellow and former Master of Sidney Sussex College, Cambridge. Before returning to Cambridge, he was Professor of Classics at the University of Reading from 1987 to 2009, and from 1995-2009 was on secondment from the University as Director of the British School at Rome. He took his first degree in Classics at Oxford (1969-73), where he also gained his doctorate. His first book, based on his doctorate, was Suetonius: the Scholar and his Caesars (Duckworth 1983); this was followed by monographs on Augustan Rome (1993), Houses and Society in Pompeii and Herculaneum (1994), Rome’s Cultural Revolution (2008), and, Herculaneum: Past and Future (2011). His new book, The Idea of the City in Late Antiquity is in press. He has directed archaeological projects in both Pompeii and in Herculaneum, where since 2001 he has played a leading role in the Herculaneum Conservation project, an initiative of the Packard Humanities Institute.
Professor Andrew Wallace-Hadrill will be on the following tour dates: 24 June to 5 July 2025 -
Olga Verstage
Olga Verstage is a versatile presenter, combining her skills as concert pianist, historian, art historian and classicist to make her talks entertaining, lively, informative, and unusual. Olga is an accredited lecturer for the Arts Society and has a PhD in Classics and a BA in Arts History. She was Head of Classics at King William’s College on the Isle of Man and teaches various history classes, Latin and Russian at the University College Isle of Man. Olga also worked as sessional Arts History lecturer for the University of Liverpool for 12 years, and for eight years was a history tutor for the University of Chester, lecturing on various art styles from Renaissance to 20th century, Medieval History and the Crusades. Olga was born in the Crimea and attended Conservatoire in Odessa, graduating with top marks in piano performance. She also has FTCL in Piano Performance, ATCL in Organ Performance and AMusTCL in music theory. Olga has a wide range of lectures on all aspects of art and history, including topics on European history covering the period from Classical times to World War I, on European art from the Classical period through Early Renaissance to Late Romanticism and early 20th century art, and on music.
Olga Verstage will be on the following tour dates: 2 to 13 September 2025
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Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000