Deckplan
The Ionian and Adriatic seas have always been an important sea route, straddling the boundary between the Eastern and Western Mediterranean. Over the centuries trade, warfare, and cultural exchange have informed the rise and fall of many nation states along these storied shores, and during our voyage between Athens and Bari aboard the 50-passenger MS Monet, we will discover the lasting legacies of these civilisations. Autumn is a wonderful time to be in the region and you can expect bright warm days which allow for plenty of exploration, without the intense heat and crowds of summer. It is the perfect time to explore the rich archaeological history that remains left by Greeks, Romans and many other distinct cultures over the millennia.
Upon leaving Athens, our exploration begins with a transit of the Corinth Canal which, whilst only built in the 19th century was conceived as long ago as the 7th century BC. It is only possible to transit the canal on a small ship like the MS Monet and the experience offers a wonderful start to our cruise. Our journey onwards to Puglia in the heel of Italy will introduce you to the history, archaeology and cultures of this corner of the Mediterranean through expertly guided shore excursions and interesting onboard lectures combined with ample time at leisure to explore some of the charming towns independently.
Our guided excursions include impressive ancient Greek sites such as the sanctuary of Delphi, the little known ancient Roman city of Nikopolis, Albania’s fascinating site of Butrint with its remains from multiple eras and the wonderfully atmospheric hillside town of Berat with its Ottoman style houses. Our voyage ends with three days in Italy’s charming region of Puglia where we will witness the Baroque grandeur of Lecce, enjoy a trip into the countryside to the trulli village of Alberobello and discover the Medieval walled old town in Bari. In addition to our guided tours, we have designed our itinerary to ensure there is ample time for you to discover the pretty harbours and picturesque towns at leisure.
This is a journey very much for the connoisseur of romantic landscapes and ancient history and will be particularly enjoyable as, with a maximum of just 50 guests, our trips ashore will be a pleasure as we explore with our Guest Speaker and local guides, adding immeasurably to our knowledge of the region.
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 Athens, Greece.
Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to the MS Monet in Piraeus and embark. Enjoy a welcome dinner on board as we moor overnight.
Day 2 Corinth Canal & Corinth.
Sail this morning across the Saronic Gulf and be on deck later this morning as we navigate the narrow Corinth Canal. Completed in 1893 and only 6.4 kilometres long and 21.5 metres wide, it is only small ships like the MS Monet which can now make this journey. We will moor in Corinth this afternoon for our guided tour. Corinth flourished under both Greek and Roman rule due to its significant location on the Isthmus of Corinth which controlled trade routes as well as being home to the naval power which took colonies in Syracuse and Corfu. It has also been closely linked to St Paul who lived here for a number of years and is known through his letters to the Christian community. During our afternoon tour we will explore the site of Ancient Corinth seeing the Temple of Aphrodite, the 6th century BC Temple of Apollo, built on a hill overlooking the marketplace and the Roman Forum.
Day 3 Itea.
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. After our visit you can choose to enjoy lunch in a local restaurant and drive through breathtaking mountain scenery to the Ossios Loukas Monastery, one of the finest examples of a 12th century Byzantine Church. Alternatively return to the ship for lunch and enjoy a leisurely afternoon on board, take a stroll in Itea or maybe visit one of the nearby beaches.
Day 4 Preveza.
Sail to the port of Preveza from where we head to the little-known ancient city of Nikopolis. One of the largest and most important sites in the whole of Greece, Nikopolis was built by the Roman Emperor Octavianus Augustus following his victory over Anthony and Cleopatra at Actium in 31 BC. 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, but earthquakes and invading Goths and Vandals led to its demise. Return to the ship for lunch and spend the afternoon exploring the pretty, yacht lined harbour town of Preveza.
Day 5 Corfu.
Arrive this morning on the island of Corfu, one of the most richly endowed of all the Greek Isles. 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 6 Sarande, Albania.
The port of Sarande is our base to discover the ancient city of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During our guided tour we will 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 MS Monet for lunch and spend the afternoon exploring at your own pace.
Day 7 Vlore, Albania.
We will sail overnight to Vlore where on arrival we will drive inland to another of Albania’s UNESCO treasures, the hillside town of Berat which artist Edward Lear visited in 1848. Some of his most important works were painted here and even today it is an artist’s dream with its steep cobbled streets and Ottoman style houses surrounded by mountains and olive and grape groves. On a guided walking tour we will explore the oldest quarter of the city known as Kalaja, where the castle has presided over the city for 2000 years and enjoy a local lunch here. En-route to Berat, 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 Roman rule. 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, certainly considerably more than Lear witnessed after spending a draughty night in a 13th century monastery. For a more leisurely option today you can choose to visit Apollonia in the morning followed by a free afternoon.
Day 8 Otranto & Lecce, Italy.
From our berth in 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 a leisurely afternoon 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.
Day 9 Monopoli & Alberobello.
From the port of Monopoli, enjoy a trip 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. This afternoon, enjoy some time at leisure in Monopoli where you can wander through the historic centre, visit the cathedral or see the Castello di Carlo V.
Day 10 Bari.
Over breakfast we arrive in Bari, capital of the region of Puglia. We will explore the walled old town, which dates to the Middle Ages, and displays influences from the various empires and cultures that controlled this key port over the centuries. Admire the architecture of ancient churches, basilicas and theatres hidden amongst the ancient streets, and marvel at the imposing Swabian Fortress that has defended the city and its port since the 12th century. This afternoon is free to explore further independently, perhaps visit Bari’s three kilometre long ocean promenade or seek out some of the culinary delights of Puglia, including the local orecchiette pasta.
Day 11 Bari to London.
Disembark this morning 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
| 14 to 24 October 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: SCMO141026
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • 10 nights aboard MS Monet on a full board basis • House wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner • Noble Caledonia onboard team including Guest Speaker • Shore Excursions • Gratuities • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
Please be aware that our website does not display real-time availability. As a result, the categories and prices listed above are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please call us at 020 7752 0000 and speak with one of our experienced Travel Consultants.
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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Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000