Deckplan
The seas between Malta and Greece offer access to a wealth of ancient sites, unspoiled islands and traditional towns. Join us aboard the 50-passenger MS Monet in May and take advantage of comfortable temperatures and the absence of high season crowds as we sail from Valletta’s Grand Harbour to Athens. During our journey through the Mediterranean and the Aegean, our small ship will take us on a voyage through a rich collection of archaeological, historical and beautiful sites in Italy and Albania and onto the playground of the Greek Gods, learning of the myths and legends which surround the enchanted islands.
Our eleven nights of discovery will begin with a day in Sicily to visit timelessly beautiful Syracuse and appreciate the island’s rich legacy of so many invading civilisations. We then spend time in the heel of Italy to discover some of the region's many gems before arriving in Albania where we visit the marvellous site of Butrint, where settlement can be traced back to the 8th century BC. Continuing on to the Peloponnese we will sail through turquoise waters, call into charming villages and admire some wonderful scenery. We will explore the Ancient World’s most fascinating sites including Olympia, the principal shrine of Zeus and Hera and the site of the original Olympic Games, the picturesque port of Nafplio and the Medieval castle town of Monemvasia.
Our custom-made itinerary focuses on many places that the mega cruise ships cannot access and, in addition to our included guided excursions and the magnificent sites we will explore, also on offer is beautiful mountainous scenery, mysterious caves, vast gorges, charming villages and superb beaches, and there will be ample time at leisure for some independent exploration.
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 Syracuse, Sicily.
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 before we return to the ship and sail in the evening.
Day 3 Crotone, Italy.
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. This afternoon we will take a scenic drive inland to Santa Severina, one of Italy’s prettiest towns overlooking the Neto River valley. Here 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. The castle contains intricate underground labyrinths and stables, with the remains of Medieval frescoes. Also see the cathedral, the beautiful Byzantine baptistery and enjoy some time to wander the town’s tangled streets. Before returning to the ship we will stop at a local farmhouse for a tasting of typical Calabrian food served with local wine.
Day 4 Otranto.
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. Alternatively, perhaps take a swim from the nearby beaches.
Day 5 Sarande, Albania.
This morning we will 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.
Day 6 Preveza, Greece.
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. Return to the ship for lunch and the afternoon is free to explore this pretty, yacht lined harbour town.
Day 7 Katakolon.
The port of Katakolon will be our base for our excursion to Olympia. Pastoral and lush, Olympia’s plentiful ruins are shaded by Aleppo pines and olive trees. The fame of Olympia rests upon the Olympic Games. During the celebrations that accompanied the Games, competitors, while not forgetting that they were Athenians, Spartans or from other city states, remembered that they were Greeks and regarded an Olympic victory as the highest honour. We will see the gymnasium, the stadium and the palestra or wrestling school. We will also explore the Altis, or sacred precinct of Zeus, which houses structures including the Temple of Zeus, one of the largest temples on the Greek mainland and the Archaeological Museum which houses some fine sculptures and artefacts from the site. After our visit return to the ship for lunch and a relaxing afternoon at sea.
Day 8 Gythio.
We arrive in picturesque Gythio this morning and board our coach heading east towards magical Monemvasia. A massive rock rises dramatically out of the sea and on top there is a fortress. However, the real attraction is the Medieval town with its narrow, cobbled streets and winding stairways which lead to a warren of stone houses with walled gardens and courtyards, and the main square dominated by an old cannon and the cathedral. On a walking tour we will visit the castle, followed by a short transfer to Liotrivi mansion. The estate was cultivated by the family of Eleftherios Ritsos (the father of Greek poet Yiannis Ritsos), and it was used as a summer house by the poet’s family. We will sample the local specialities at an olive oil tasting followed by a buffet lunch of local products and wines. Return to the MS Monet for a leisurely afternoon in Gythio.
Day 9 Nafplio.
Looking out across the translucent water of the bay towards the Arcadian Mountains, Nafplio’s sheltered location below a rocky headland and large natural fortress crowned by a Venetian castle is perhaps unrivalled in Greece. After a relaxing morning at sea and lunch on board, we will head to the famous citadel of Mycenae which is located high above the confluence of two boulder-strewn ravines and accessed by way of the Lion Gate. Once inside the gate, we will explore the Royal Palace, the shaft graves and the remains of the city walls. An archaeological briefing within the Treasury of Atreus (also known as the Tomb of Agamemnon) will add to our understanding and appreciation of the sights. We moor in Nafplio tonight for anyone for anyone who wishes to take an after-dinner stroll.
Day 10 Nafplio.
After breakfast we depart on a tour to one of the most renowned of Greece’s ancient sites. Situated on the slopes of a beautiful and wooded valley, Epidaurus was known throughout the Hellenic world for its unique medical facilities and healing treatments. Dedicated to Asclepius, the god of healing, the city was filled with curative spas and baths and only priests had access to certain secret rites. Most of the ruins of Epidaurus have been reduced to their foundations, with the exception of the astonishing theatre. Still used for special performances, the theatre is in an admirable state of preservation. Return to the ship for lunch and the afternoon is at leisure in Nafplio to wander the twisting labyrinthine streets and admire the Venetian and Turkish architecture of this charming town.
Day 11 Sifnos.
This corner of the Cyclades is far from the well-trodden tracks of the big ships and you will be greeted by traditional white houses, picturesque churches and narrow lanes and alleys. A morning tour of Sifnos will include Apollonia, the island’s tiny capital, the Virysianni Monastery, and the villages of Kastro and Artemos, both delightful places to wander and admire the traditional architecture.
Day 12 Athens to London.
Disembark this morning in Piraeus and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London.
Dates and Prices
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £200 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY
Prices per person based on double occupancy
| 24 May to 4 June 2025 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| D Twin/Double with portholes on Camille/Parisien Deck | £5295 | £5095 |
| C Twin/Double with windows on Parisien/Lumiere Deck | £5595 | £5395 |
| B Superior Double with windows on Lumiere Deck | £5995 | £5795 |
| A Deluxe Double with windows on Lumiere Deck | £6495 | £6295 |
| D Twin/Double with portholes on Camille/Parisien Deck for sole use | £6795 | £6595 |
Tour Reference Code: SCMO240525
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 & 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.
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Ship Directory
Ship Directory
Please find below further details pertaining to the ship or click on the adjacent Directory to download.
We are delighted you have chosen the MS Monet for your upcoming voyage and hope this information answers any questions you may have pertaining to the vessel.
SHIP TECHNICAL DETAILS:
Cabins: 28
Crew: 29
Cruise speed: 9 knots
Length: 68 metres
Width: 10 metres
Draft: 3.6 metres
Built: 1970
Year refurbished: 2018AIR-CONDITIONING
The ship is centrally air-conditioned throughout.
ALARM
An alarm will be sounded in the event of an emergency. Please follow the instructions provided on board for what to do should an emergency occur. Life jackets are stowed in the closet in your cabin.
BAR/BEVERAGES
Beer, wine and soft drinks are included with lunch and dinner on board. Outside of mealtimes, a selection of wines, spirits and soft drinks are available to purchase from the bar. There is also a self-serve tea and coffee station in the Lounge.
CABIN SIZES & FACILITIES
All cabins are designed for comfort and have twin beds or fixed double beds. Facilities include en-suite bathroom with shower, television, mini-bar, safe, central air-conditioning and hairdryer. Category D (Camille & Parisian) cabins range in size from 9 to 14 square metres and feature two portholes. Please note that cabin numbers with twin beds are 104-107, 112, 119 & 205. All other cabins feature fixed double beds. Category C (Parisian & Lumiere) cabins range in size from 12 to 14 square metres and feature a window. Please note that cabin numbers with twin beds are 210-215. All other cabins feature fixed double beds. Category B (Lumiere) cabins are 17 square metres and feature windows and a double bed. Category A (Lumiere) cabins range in size from 21 to 22 square metres and feature windows and a double bed.
CURRENCY
It is a good idea to exchange some of your funds at a bank before leaving home. Most international airports also exchange funds, though they often charge higher exchange fees. The ship does not facilitate any currency exchange. The currency on board the MS Monet is Euros.
DAILY PROGRAMME
A Daily Programme, detailing the following day’s arrangements as well as any specific information about the day’s activities is produced on board and delivered to your cabin each evening.
DIETARY REQUIREMENTS
If you have any dietary requirements such as vegetarian, low salt, gluten free and low cholesterol, please notify the Reservations Department in advance. We regret that not all dietary requirements can be guaranteed. If you have any specific or special foods that you require we recommend that you take some with you although we will endeavour to accommodate your needs. Once on board, please speak to the Chef or Hotel Manager at dinner on your first night to reconfirm your requirements.
DISEMBARKATION
Disembarkation times will be provided by your Cruise Director or Tour Manager prior to the end of your cruise. This will include transfer information (where applicable).
DRESS CODE
On board the emphasis is on comfortable and casual clothing at all times. The dress code is very informal. You may like to wear smart casual clothing for the welcome and farewell dinners. Please note that no ties or jackets for gentlemen or occasion wear for ladies is required.
ELECTRICITY
Voltage is 220V/50Hz (European standard) and a 220V razor socket. This is only suitable for low voltage electrical appliances, e.g. mobile phone or camera chargers. Adaptors for hairdryers, mobile phones etc. can be borrowed from Reception but we recommend that you bring a two-pin European adaptor for the 220V plug. Hairdryers are provided for your convenience in the bathrooms.
EMERGENCY & SAFETY PROCEDURES
It is mandatory that all guests participate in the safety briefing, which is normally scheduled to take place prior to departure from the port of embarkation. In the unlikely event of an emergency you will be informed by a loudspeaker announcement. Please collect your lifejacket from the cabin, proceed to the marked Muster Station and follow instructions given by the Captain or crew members.
GRATUITIES
Gratuities have been included in your holiday price.
HEALTH & HYGIENE
In order to maintain health standards you will find hand sanitisers at all important contact points around the vessel.
HOUSEKEEPING
Housekeeping is available twice per day, in the morning and afternoon.
LAUNDRY SERVICE
There is a laundry service available for an additional charge. There is no dry cleaning service.
LIBRARY
There is a small library located in the Lounge.
LIFE JACKETS
The vessel is equipped with life jackets which can be located in the cabins. Additional life jackets can be obtained in the muster station from the crew.
LIFT
Please note that there is no lift on board.
LOST PROPERTY
Lost property can be handed in to the ship’s reception. Before you disembark the ship, please check your cabin to ensure you do not leave anything behind. If you discover you have left any items behind, please contact Noble Caledonia directly. If we are able to recover your item(s) we will contact you to arrange delivery or collection and to advise of any associated costs.
MEALS
Meals are served in a single seating with unassigned tables, for an informal atmosphere and easy mingling. Weather permitting, some meals are served al fresco on the Lumiere Deck. The menu is international, with a focus on local specialities.
MEDICAL SERVICES
MS Monet has crew members trained in first aid and further medical services can be obtained at ports of call.
PAYMENTS ON BOARD
All charges for services provided and products purchased on board must be settled in cash (Euros) or by credit card (Mastercard & Visa) before final disembarkation from the ship.
POST
Although reception staff are happy to post letters on your behalf, they may not be able to do so straight away or at the port of call at which you make such a request. Some postal services are unreliable and letters or postcards that you ask to be delivered on your behalf may be delayed or even lost en route.
QUESTIONNAIRES
Your comments are important to us therefore before your cruise ends, you will receive a questionnaire. We are always looking for ways to improve your holiday experience and appreciate the time you take to complete the questionnaire.
SAFE
Your cabin is equipped with a personal safe. Please take great care with your money, jewellery, cameras, binoculars, documents and any other articles that you retain in your personal control.
SAFETY DRILL
The safety briefing will take place prior to sailing. All guests must attend this compulsory and important exercise. Please listen for the announcements.
SMOKING
Aboard the MS Monet, the comfort, enjoyment and safety of all guests are paramount. All cabins are non-smoking. Smoking is only permitted on open decks.
TOILETRIES
Shampoo, conditioner, shower gel and hand soap are provided in your bathroom.
VISITORS
For the safety and security of all passengers no visitors are allowed on board the ship.
WATER
The tap water on board is drinkable. There is also a water dispenser in the bar where water bottles can be refilled on request. One bottle of water is provided per passenger per day.
WI-FI
Complimentary Wi-Fi access is available on board. Depending on the ship’s location, there may be times when the connection is very slow or is disrupted and the same level of connectivity that you enjoy at home cannot be expected on board.
V.1 JULY 2022
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Deck Plan
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Deckplan
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Travelling with You
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David Stuttard
David took an MA in Classics from St Andrews University. He subsequently taught Classics for eleven years in Edinburgh, St Andrews and York. David is a prolific author of books on classical history and literature including A History of Ancient Greece in 50 Lives, A Traveller’s Guide to Greek Mythology and A Traveller’s Guide to Roman Mythology (all for Thames and Hudson), Nemesis: Alcibiades and the Fall of Athens and Phoenix: Cimon and the Rise of Athens (both for Harvard University Press). He edits Bloomsbury Press’ Looking at… and is currently working on Looking at Greek Drama and Looking at Hippolytus (both for Bloomsbury) and Hubris: Pericles’ Parthenon Project and the Invention of Athens (Harvard). In 1993, David founded the theatre company, Actors of Dionysus, to perform productions of Greek drama throughout the UK and beyond, directing his own translations and adaptations of Greek tragedies as Joint Artistic Director until 2004. He has subsequently directed events with actors such as Simon Russell Beale, Tom Conti, Jane Asher and Fenella Fielding. David has curated events at The British Museum (including in association with its exhibitions, Life and Death in Pompeii and Herculaneum and Defining Beauty) and at The Ashmolean Museum (in association with the Last Supper in Pompeii exhibition). David is an energetic champion of Classics and writes for publications such as Minerva, The British Museum Magazine, All About History, History News Network and The Wall Street Journal. He has served on the Council of the Roman Society and speaks at a wide range of venues including academic institutions and literary festivals such as Oxford and Cheltenham. In October 2018, David was elected a Fellow of Goodenough College, London. Later this year his show, Just a Little Murder, performed by Dame Sian Phillips and Stephen Greif, can be seen in and around London.
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Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000