Join us aboard the all-suite MS Hebridean Sky for this exploration of Sicily and all its wonders in the company of just over 100 fellow guests. After embarking in Naples and exploring the ancient site of Paestum on the Amalfi Coast we will sail to Sicily for seven days of discovery of this unique island with its incredible wealth of treasures.
Sicily has 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, the island 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 time sailing around Sicily and we have have timed our voyage for October, when the temperatures will be pleasant for our guided tours and the sites will be free of the summer crowds. We will visit the stunning Greek theatre at Taormina, the charming coastal city of Cefalu, Byzantine Monreale Cathedral from Palermo, the superbly well-preserved Greek temples of Segesta, the Roman mosaics of Villa Romana di Casale and the Valle dei Templi. There will also be opportunities to sample some regional delicacies and wine and in addition, our excellent local guides and our Guest Speaker will contribute greatly to your enjoyment and understanding of Sicily.
Hebridean Sky
The MS Hebridean Sky is one of our two flag ships and sister vessel to the MS Island Sky. Both vessels were built in the same ship yard in Italy at similar times and share the same excellent attributes that make them two of the finest small ships in the world.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Naples, Italy.
Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to the MS Hebridean Sky and enjoy welcome dinner and drinks as we sail this evening.
Day 2 Salerno for Paestum.
Overnight we will have sailed around the Amalfi coast to the ancient city of Salerno, our gateway to the Cilento region, a mix of small villages, coastal paths, archaeological sites, national parks and renowned as the home of the Mediterranean diet. We will visit the site of Paestum, which was founded by Greeks in 600 BC. This well preserved and fascinating site was rediscovered in 1752 and during our time here we will see the impressive Temple Poseidon, the Basilica, Amphitheatre and Athenian before spending some time in the museum, adjacent to the site.
Day 3 Messina for Taormina, Sicily.
We arrive into Sicily in Messina from where 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 enjoy an afternoon exploring at leisure 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 4 Termini Imerese for Cefalu & Palermo.
From our berth at Termini Imerese 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. Return to the ship for lunch and some time at sea before we dock in Palermo in the early evening. We remain overnight and hope to offer a private concert in one of the town’s palazzos accompanied by local food and wine this evening.
Day 5 Palermo.
Today we explore the Sicilian capital of Palermo famous for its jumbled and picturesque streets punctuated with ornate Baroque churches, domed Arab mosques and the 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 Trapani.
This morning there will be the option to travel inland to explore Segesta, one of the grandest Doric monuments to survive. See the unfinished temple dating from 424 BC as well as the theatre from where you can enjoy excellent views of the countryside and distant coastline. Alternatively, visit the fascinating salt pans that are between Trapani and Marsala. This area, used by the Phoenicians who first understood how favourable the natural conditions were for salt extraction, has been declared a Natural Reserve and is full of colours thanks to the unique flora and fauna. Visit the museum of salt before we continue to a nearby farmhouse which is dedicated to promoting Sicilian produce including olive oils and wines which we can try before returning to the ship. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore Trapani at your own pace before we sail this evening.
Day 7 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, we can 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 the port to the town and the excellent archaeological museum which you can explore at leisure.
Day 8 Licata for Piazza Armerina.
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 a chance to sample some wine over a Sicilian lunch before returning to the ship.
Day 9 Syracuse & Noto.
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. This morning 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 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. In the afternoon you can explore further at your own pace or alternatively visit the Baroque village of Noto. Built in 1703 Noto is a picturesque city located on the terraced slopes of Mount Iblei among olive groves and almond trees. A guided walk along the central streets will reveal the 18th century Palazzo Ducezio and some Baroque churches: San Francesco Immacolata, the cathedral, San Carlo, Santa Chiara and the imposing Palazzo Nicolaci di Villadorata, built in 1737.
Day 10 Valletta to London.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London.
Dates and Prices
19 to 28 October 2027 | ||
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Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
Amundsen Deck Standard Suite | £6895 | £6395 |
Byrd Deck Superior Suite | £7195 | £6695 |
Mawson Deck Premium Suite | £7495 | £6995 |
Mawson Deck Corner Suite | £7795 | £7295 |
Scott Deck Deluxe Balcony Suite | £8795 | £8295 |
Shackleton Deck Owner's Balcony Suite | £8995 | £8495 |
Shackleton Deck Hebridean Suite | £9495 | £8995 |
Amundsen Deck Standard for sole use | £8995 | £8495 |
Byrd Deck Superior for sole use | £9295 | £8795 |
Tour Reference Code: SCHKS191027
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Nine nights aboard the MS Hebridean Sky on a full board basis • House wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner • Noble Caledonia onboard team including Guest Speaker • Gratuities • Transfers • Shore excursions • Airport taxes • 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.
Hebridean Sky
The MS Hebridean Sky is one of our two flag ships and sister vessel to the MS Island Sky. Both vessels were built in the same ship yard in Italy at similar times and share the same excellent attributes that make them two of the finest small ships in the world.
Skys Video Tour
Tour Extensions
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If you would like to spend some time exploring the vibrant city of Naples before embarking the MS Hebridean Sky we are offering a two night extension.
Naples
The Itinerary
Day 1 London to Naples, Italy.
Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to our hotel for a two night stay. After some free time to settle in we will meet for dinner. (D)
Day 2 Naples.
Our morning city tour of Naples includes the Piazza del Plebiscito with its range of buildings including the Galleria Umberto I, the Maschio Angioino and the Palazzo Reale. Inside the palace we will visit the Historical Apartment. The rest of the day is at leisure to relax at the hotel or for independent exploration. (B)
Day 3 Herculaneum.
After breakfast we head to the remarkable ruins of Herculaneum at the foot of the awesome Mount Vesuvius. When Vesuvius erupted on 24 August AD 79, it engulfed the two flourishing Roman towns of Pompeii and Herculaneum, as well as the many wealthy villas in the area. Herculaneum is smaller but better preserved than Pompeii and has a wealth of archaeological finds such as inlaid marble floors, mosaics and paintings. During our visit to the site we will discover ancient luxurious properties and villas. Afterwards we will enjoy lunch in a nearby restaurant before returning to Naples and embarking the MS Hebridean Sky. (B, L)
Prices per person based on double occupancy
17 to 19 October 2027 Category Price Twin £895 Single £1485 Price Includes: Two nights hotel accommodation in Naples, meals as indicated (B - Breakfast, L - Lunch, D - Dinner), drinks with included meals, tours as described, Noble Caledonia Tour Manager, gratuities, transfers.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
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After disembarking the MS Hebridean Sky, we are offering the opportunity to join a two night extension in Malta.
Valletta
The Itinerary
Day 1 Valletta, Malta.
After breakfast we will disembark and begin a walking tour of Valletta, the 16th century “Fortress City” built by the Knights of St John. Our morning tour will include the highlights of Valletta with its stunning views across the harbour from the Barrakka Gardens. After lunch we transfer to our hotel and check in. The remainder of the day is free for independent exploration. (B, L)
Day 2 Mdina.
A morning tour will take us to Mdina. Originally this city was given the name of ‘Citta Nobile’, and it is now known as the ‘Silent City’ at the heart of the island. Mdina is Phoenician in origin and was the fortified capital of the island before the arrival of the Knights. The remainder of the day is at leisure. (B)
Day 3 Valletta to London.
Check out this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London. (B)
Prices per person based on double occupancy
28 to 30 October 2027 Category Price Twin £595 Single £985 Price Includes: Two nights hotel accommodation, meals as indicated (B - Breakfast, L - Lunch), tours as described, Noble Caledonia Tour Manager, gratuities, transfers.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
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Also of Interest
Circumnavigation of Sicily
An in-depth exploration of the wonders of Sicily aboard the MS Hebridean Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Valletta / Piazza Armerina / Valley of the Temples / Trapani / Palermo / Taormina / Syracuse / Noto / Ragusa / Valletta
Sicily by Sea
A circumnavigation of Sicily aboard the MS Hebridean Sky with Guest Speaker David Stuttard
Itinerary at a glance
- Valletta / Piazza Armerina / Valley of the Temples / Selinunte / Trapani / Palermo / Cefalu / taormina / Syracuse / Noto / Valletta
Journey through Antiquity
A voyage from Athens to Split aboard the MS Monet with Guest Speaker David Stuttard
Itinerary at a glance
- Athens / Nafplio / Gytheio / Monemvasia / Olympia / Otranto / Lecce / Monopoli / Alberobello / Kotor / Hvar / Brac / Split
Along the Barbary Coast
A voyage between Malta and Gibraltar including Tunisia & Algeria aboard the MS Hebridean Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Valletta / Sousse / El Djem / Kairouan / Tunis / Carthage / Cagliari / Algiers / Oran / Ghazaouet / Melilla / Gibraltar
Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000