Deckplan
Cultural and natural wonders abound in the Balkans and the region offers so much for the genuine traveller. At the crossroads of east and west and with a history forged over the centuries and influenced by so many, 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 this unique voyage aboard the MS Monet we will sail from Split to Corfu visiting Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro and Albania along the way, cruising through turquoise waters, admiring the spectacular landscapes and visiting some of the region’s greatest sites in the company of our knowledgeable Guest Speaker and local guides.
Whilst in Split we will visit the Diocletian Palace built by the Romans which we will explore before setting sail for Bosnia and Herzegovina to discover the enchanting World Heritage Site of Mostar. Returning to Croatia we visit the wonderful walled city of Dubrovnik and spend time in the old town before sailing to Montenegro where 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. Next is Albania which, often overlooked, is full of scenic wonders, Medieval towns, culturally rich cities and sweeping landscapes. We will spend four days exploring its treasures including the vibrant city of Tirana, the evocative ruins of the ancient city of Apollonia and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Butrint before our journey concludes in Corfu with its rich historical heritage dating back to the 8th century BC.
This is not an itinerary that a large cruise ship could operate but one that is ideal for the 50-passenger MS Monet. We are able to visit some marvellous places that do not cater for the big ships and our daily tours, accompanied by excellent local guides will introduce you to the fascinating history of the region as we explore Roman ruins, Ottoman houses, Venetian castles, Byzantine churches and some charming towns.
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 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.
After breakfast 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 and a wonderful spot to wander the maze of streets. Return to the ship for lunch and enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore further at your own pace. Alternatively, join us as we drive the short distance to the ancient site of Salona, the Roman capital of Dalmatia and a city that was once home to over 40,000 people. Archaeologists have excavated remains of temples, amphitheatres, early Christian churches, burial grounds, and baths which we can explore with our local guides.
Day 3 Ploce for Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
From our berth in Ploce we will cross the border into Bosnia and Herzegovina for our visit to Mostar. In the 15th century, Mostar became a thriving centre on the banks of the emerald Neretva River under the Ottoman Turks. Damaged by the military conflict in the 1990s, the town has been carefully restored by UNESCO and declared a World Heritage Site. Admire the ethereally graceful Stari Most (“The Old Bridge”), originally built in 1566, the nearby Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque and an old Turkish house, among other sites. After lunch in a local restaurant you may also wish to explore the old bazaar, a haven for the city’s artists and craftsmen.
Day 4 Dubrovnik, Croatia.
After breakfast, enjoy a guided walk through this breathtaking city. Dubrovnik’s many historic and cultural treasures have earned it designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and we will see the major attractions such as the Rector’s Palace, the Romanesque-Gothic Dominican and Franciscan Monasteries, and the Sponza Palace. This afternoon is free to explore independently and perhaps enjoy a walk on the city walls.
Day 5 Kotor, Montenegro.
Be on deck as 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 Shengjin, Albania.
Our exploration of Albania begins this morning from the northern port of Shengjin. We drive inland to the town of Shkodra which was founded in the 4th century BC and has been occupied by the Romans, Serbians and Venetians. Those feeling active can choose to climb up to visit Rozafa Castle which rises majestically on a rocky hill just outside the city, explore the site and enjoy the views of the plains below. Alternatively, a scenic drive of the landscapes of northern Albania will be available before re-joining your fellow travellers for a visit to the local Marubi Museum and a ‘slow food’ lunch of locally sourced ingredients at a nearby farm and restaurant. Return to the ship in the afternoon and we will sail towards the port of Durres where we moor overnight.
Day 7 Durres.
The coastal city of Durres was colonised by the Greeks in 627 BC and still has the remains of a 15,000 seat amphitheatre, the second largest in the Balkans. This morning we will head inland to Tirana to see the fascinating nuclear bunker built by the dictator Enver Hoxha in the 1970s and only recently opened to the public. This underground building is packed with original artefacts from the communist period. Afterwards continue walking through the city centre to see the mosque, Clock Tower and the “Blloku” area of the city. Alternatively, for a more leisurely option, join a panoramic tour of Tirana’s main sights. After lunch at a local farm we return to Durres to visit the Medieval city and the Archeological Museum before sailing late this evening.
Day 8 Vlore.
Just south of Durres is the port of Vlore and from here we drive two hours to another UNESCO treasure, the hillside town of Berat, with its steep cobbled streets and Ottoman style houses surrounded by mountains and olive and grape groves. We will explore the oldest quarter of the city known as Kalaja, where the castle has presided over the city for 2,000 years, and enjoy a local lunch here. En-route back to Vlore, we plan to visit Apollonia, once a great city and an important port. Founded by the Corinthians in 588 BC, it prospered under Greek colonisation and Rome. It was here Octavian learned of the assassination of his great uncle Caesar and set upon his bid for power ultimately becoming emperor. Archaeological excavations by successive French missions dating back to Napoleon III mean a large area of the site is now visible. Alternatively, for a more leisurely option, you may choose to visit Apollonia in the morning followed by lunch on board the MS Monet and an afternoon at leisure.
Day 9 Sarande.
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 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 a relaxing afternoon on board while we sail the short distance to Corfu where we moor overnight.
Day 10 Corfu, Greece.
Praised by Homer in ‘The Odyssey’ and selected by Shakespeare as the setting for ‘The Tempest’, the island retains evidence of cultural heritage from each of its past rulers - Byzantium, Venice, France, Russia and Great Britain. Our guided tour will include the famous Byzantine Monastery of the Virgin at Paleokastritsa which is still inhabited by a community of monks. The small museum houses some priceless Byzantine icons. Spend some time in the serene monastery gardens that afford a splendid view over the turquoise waters of the bay. Continue to Mon Repos Palace, the summer residence of the British Governors of Corfu which now houses a museum, including many Ionian treasures, and is surrounded by a large park. Return to the ship for lunch and this afternoon is free to explore Corfu Town with its idyllic pastel coloured Venetian mansions and fine museums.
Day 11 Corfu to London.
Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for the 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
| 17 to 27 April 2026 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| D Twin/Double with portholes on Camille/Parisien Deck | £4995 | £4795 |
| C Twin/Double with windows on Parisien/Lumiere Deck | £5395 | £5195 |
| B Superior Double with windows on Lumiere Deck | £5895 | £5695 |
| A Deluxe Double with windows on Lumiere Deck | £6495 | £6295 |
| D Twin/Double with portholes on Camille/Parisien Deck for sole use | £6495 | £6295 |
Tour Reference Code: SCMO170426
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • 10 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.
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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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Nirvana Romell
Nirvana left her native Croatia during the turbulent 1990s, with a degree in History of Western and Yugoslav art from the University of Zagreb as well as a MA in English Language and Literature.
After a decade in South Africa, she arrived in England in 2003 where she has worked as a freelance lecturer, and on museum collections interpretations and staff training.
Recently, she’s been ‘commuting’ between the UK and Geneva. For nearly 20 years, she has also led study tours to the places close to her heart -the Balkans, northern Italy, France, Sweden and South Africa – and is passionate about travel that expands cultural horizons and connects people, past and present.
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Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000