The island of Sicily has an incredible wealth of treasures and a geography which lends itself beautifully to exploration by sea with most points of interest located close to the coast. Owing to its benevolent climate and superb strategic position, Sicily has been coveted, fought over and colonised numerous times with the Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans, Byzantines and Bourbons having all made their mark. From magnificent Doric temples to great Byzantine cathedrals and bizarrely styled villas, there is so much to explore during our circumnavigation of the island which we have timed for May when the crowds of summer have yet to arrive and the temperatures will be pleasant for our guided tours.
During our nine night voyage we will explore Sicily’s rich heritage at a relaxing pace and in the company of just a small group of fellow travellers. We will visit some of the must-see sites such as the ancient Doric temples at Valle dei Templi, Palermo’s Byzantine Monreale Cathedral and the stunning Greek theatre at Taormina as well as some of the lesser-known gems including the Roman mosaics of Villa Romana del Casale, the impressive archaeological park of Selinunte and the charming fishing town of Cefalu. We have also planned some late departures from port, which afford the opportunity to enjoy dining ashore or an after dinner stroll in some towns which are particularly atmospheric in the evening. In addition, local guides and our onboard Guest Speaker will contribute greatly to your enjoyment and understanding of Sicily.
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.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Valletta, Malta.
Fly by scheduled flight. Arrive and transfer to the MS Monet. 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 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 the chance to sample some wine over a Sicilian lunch before returning to the ship. We sail in the early evening towards Porto Empedocle, where we plan to moor overnight.
Day 3 Agrigento for 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 Porto Empedocle to the town and the excellent archaeological museum which you can explore at leisure.
Day 4 Mazara del Vallo for Selinunte.
Founded in the 9th century BC by the Phoenicians, Mazara del Vallo was used as a strategic location for their trans-Mediterranean trading interests, before it became part of Magna Graecia when it served as a port for the nearby city of Selinunte. This morning we will visit the impressive remains of the ancient city of Selinunte. Once one of the most eminent cities of Magna Graecia it was ransacked by the Carthaginians, led by Hannibal, who sent 100,000 soldiers to attack in 409 BC, massacring thousands of the inhabitants with the remainder being taken into slavery. The city was destroyed and forgotten until 1823 when excavations began. Situated on a high plain overlooking the sea, it is a lovely place to walk and our guided tour will explore the acropolis, the eastern temples and the ancient city. Return to the vessel for lunch and a relaxing afternoon at sea sailing towards Palermo.
Day 5 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 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 6 Cefalu.
Enjoy a relaxing morning as we cruise the short distance to reach the port of Termini Imerese from where we drive along the coast to visit the picturesque fishing town of Cefalu. The town exudes typical Sicilian charm and we will see the Gothic-Norman style cathedral and Medieval Wash House on a walking tour before enjoying some free time to stroll among the narrow streets perhaps tasting the famous Sicilian ice creams and cakes.
Day 7 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 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 8 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 ‘Ear of Dionysius’, a vast grotto with an amplifying resonance. We will continue to explore the island of Ortigia where we will 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. We remain moored tonight, for anyone wishing to dine out in town.
Day 9 Noto.
From our berth in Syracuse we will explore the Baroque village of Noto. Built in 1703, Noto is a picturesque city located on the terraced slopes of the Iblei Mountains among olive groves and almond trees. A quiet walk along the central streets will reveal the 18th century Palazzo Ducezio and some Baroque churches: The Immacolata, the cathedral, San Carlo, Santa Chiara and the imposing Palazzo Nicolaci di Villadorata, built in 1737. Return to the ship for lunch and enjoy a final afternoon at leisure in Syracuse.
Day 10 Valletta, Malta to London.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London.
Dates and Prices
15 to 24 May 2025 | ||
---|---|---|
Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
D Twin/Double with portholes on Camille/Parisien Deck | £4495 | £4295 |
C Twin/Double with windows on Parisien/Lumiere Deck | £4795 | £4595 |
B Superior Double with windows on Lumiere Deck | £5095 | £4895 |
A Deluxe Double with windows on Lumiere Deck | £5495 | £5295 |
D Twin/Double with portholes on Camille/Parisien Deck for sole use | £5695 | £5495 |
Tour Reference Code: SCMO150525
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Nine nights aboard the MS Monet on a full board basis • House wine, beer & soft drinks with lunch & 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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Jeremy Paterson
Jeremy Paterson studied Classics and Ancient History at Oxford, where he was also President of the University Archaeological Society. Subsequently he was Craven Research Fellow at The British School at Rome, where he studied the ancient Roman wine trade. For most of his career he taught Ancient History at Newcastle University, where he was also Dean of Arts and chaired the University Teaching Committee. For many years he chaired the Primary Latin Project, ‘Minimus’, which is successfully introducing Latin into primary schools. His research interests include economic history, the ancient wine trade, Cicero, the court of the Roman emperor, the nature of power in the ancient world, and early Christianity. He has travelled extensively throughout the Mediterranean and Europe, and is a very experienced lecturer on cruises and on land-based tours.
Also of Interest
Island Hopping in the Aegean
Discover some of the most beautiful Greek Isles aboard the MS Monet
Monet
Itinerary at a glance
- Athens / Folegandros / Sifnos / Syros / Fourni / Samos / Kusadasi / Patmos / Lipsi / leros / Nisyros / Symi / Rhodes
Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000