Deckplan
Aegean Antiquities
A voyage from Istanbul to Athens with Guest Speaker, Lord Chartres aboard the MS Monet
- 23 September 2020
September in the Aegean is the perfect time for visiting some of the unspoiled islands, timeless villages and ancient sites. Join us aboard the 50-passenger MS Monet and explore ancient sites where 3000 years of history can be viewed in relative peace and quiet at a time of year when the absence of high summer crowds will contribute towards making this a memorable journey. We will explore some truly fascinating sites including sacred Delos, the ancient city of Ephesus where digging has been taking place for over a century and is rightly one of the most famous Graeco- Roman sites in the Mediterranean as well as Pergamum which was one of the cultural capitals of antiquity and is one of the finest archaeological sites in Turkey.
After many years of experience of operating cruises in the Aegean, we believe we have the perfectly balanced itinerary with a mix of guided excursions and time at leisure to explore the charming villages independently or perhaps visit a nearby beach. We have planned some late departures from port, which affords the opportunity to enjoy an after dinner stroll in some towns which are particularly atmospheric in the evening. Owing to the fact that our small ship can moor centrally, we have the added advantage of being able to access the towns and villages by foot in many of the ports of call instead of by long coach transfers. Whether you are interested in ancient history, Greek myths or simply enjoy cruising amongst beautiful scenery, this voyage has a lot to offer.
Useful links & Travel Advice
Please find a selection of useful websites to refer to for information from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, on visa requirements, NHS travel health advice and other useful travel tips.
Monet
We are delighted to have chartered the MS Monet, a 220 foot motor yacht accommodating a maximum of 50 guests, for a series of cruises through the Adriatic and Aegean in 2020. 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 Heathrow to Istanbul, Turkey.
Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to the MS Monet and embark.
Day 2 Canakkale.
Be on deck this morning as we pass through Dardanelles. We arrive in the early afternoon at Canakkale, our gateway for Troy, where ongoing archaeological excavations have revealed nine different layers of cities superimposed in rings on a massive mound rising above the Plain of Ilium. It was at one of these cities, as legend has it, that the Greeks fought the Trojans as told by Homer in the Iliad. Our tour follows the excavations made by Heinrich Schliemann, the archaeologist who discovered Troy and “Priam’s Treasure”, the jewels that, Schliemann claimed, were worn by Helen of Troy. We will walk the walls that held Helen of Troy and look down at the plain where Achilles dragged the dead body of Hector. We can also visit the new Troy museum on site.
Day 3 Dikili.
From the port of Dikili we will drive inland to Pergamum with its splendid Acropolis towering above the valley of the Caicus River. This city, built by Alexander’s warring generals became one of the cultural capitals of antiquity, its library rivalling those of Athens and Alexandria. Today Pergamum is one of Turkey’s finest archaeological sites. Take a cable car up to the Acropolis to see the remains of the citadel and the city walls, the foundations of the Zeus Altar and the Royal Palace. We will enjoy a local lunch before returning to MS Monet for some time at leisure before sailing in the early evening.
Day 4 Kusadasi.
From our berth in Kusadasi we will drive to the nearby ancient city of Ephesus, a stunning and partially excavated site where digging has been taking place for over a century. Broad streets are lined by impressive buildings including the library of Celsus and the temples of Serapis and Hadrian. Once the capital of Ionia, St Paul preached here on his second missionary journey and we will see the Church of the Virgin Mary, the most important Christian monument in Ephesus. Also see the spectacular Grand Theatre, originally built in the 3rd century BC by the Greeks, and later expanded by the Romans to its present capacity of 24,000. We will enjoy a local lunch and visit the lesser known site of Priene, once a small but wealthy Ionian town on the slopes of the Mycale escarpment overlooking the broad expanse of the Menderes River plain.
Day 5 Patmos, Greece.
Of all the Greek islands, Patmos is the most sacred to Christians both Orthodox and Western and it was here that St John received his revelation. This morning, we will make our way to the grotto of St John. This small cave, now converted into the beautiful chapel, is where the Saint lived, had his revelation and wrote ‘Book of the Apocalypse’. From here continue to the village of Chora, with its simple houses and Byzantine churches and climb to the Monastery of St John the Theologian. Upon entering into the courtyard, admire the intricate pebbled floor, decorated arches and frescoes adorning the entrance to the chapel of Christodoulos. Return to the MS Monet for lunch and an afternoon and evening at leisure. Perhaps explore the picturesque town of Skala or maybe enjoy a swim at a nearby beach.
Day 6 Kos.
According to Myth, Kos was the homeland of the Giants. The island has given to the world Hippocrates, father of medicine and the 4th century painter Apelles. We will drive the short distance to the Asklepion, the infirmary of Antiquity, which was constructed in the 4th century BC. Among the ruins are part of the Doric Temple of Aesculapius, the altar and the Stoa which housed the famous Hippocrates Medical School. After lunch on board you have the afternoon to explore Kos Town at your own pace.
Day 7 Rhodes.
Our tour this morning will take us to the ancient Acropolis of Lindos. From here the views of the Pelagus and St Paul’s Bay, where the apostle anchored during his voyage to Ephesus, are stunning. The Medieval walls which guard Lindos were constructed by the Knights of St John. This afternoon there will be the opportunity to relax on board or explore the street and walls of Rhodes Town at leisure or on a guided tour before sailing in the late evening.
Day 8 Tilos.
Awake in timeless Tilos, this lovely island of the Dodecanses has still to find its way onto the pages of tour operator’s brochures and so retains its traditional atmosphere. See Livadia, a lively little town and Megalo Chorio, its tiny capital rich in Crusader castles. Enjoy some time at leisure before sailing later in the afternoon. There is a beach nearby for those that prefer to have a swim.
Day 9 Mykonos.
From Mykonos we take a local boat over to the uninhabited island of Delos, which though the smallest of the Cyclades, was once the political and religious centre for the whole of the Aegean. Birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, it boasted an oracle second only to that of Delphi. Explore the magnificent archaeological site including the marble sanctuary of Apollo. Return to the MS Monet and explore Mykonos town at leisure.
Day 10 Athens to London Heathrow.
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
| 23 September to 2 October 2020 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| D Twin/Double with portholes on Camille/Parisien Deck | £3795 | £3595 |
| C Twin/Double with windows on Parisien/Lumiere Deck | £3995 | £3795 |
| B Superior Double with windows on Lumiere Deck | £4295 | £4095 |
| A Deluxe Twin with windows on Lumiere Deck | £4795 | £4595 |
| D Twin/Double with portholes on Camille/Parisien Deck for sole use | £4995 | £4795 |
Tour Reference Code: SCMO230920
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 on board • Noble Caledonia onboard team including Guest Speaker • Shore excursions • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance, Turkish visa.
Monet
We are delighted to have chartered the MS Monet, a 220 foot motor yacht accommodating a maximum of 50 guests, for a series of cruises through the Adriatic and Aegean in 2020. 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
Please find below further details pertaining to the vessel or click on the booklet to download.We are delighted to have chartered the MS Monet, a 220 foot motor yacht accommodating a maximum of 50 guests, for a series of cruises through the Adriatic and Aegean. 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.
The public areas include a main lounge and bar with comfortable sofas on the Lumiere Deck, a restaurant located on the Parisian Deck and the Lumiere Open Deck al fresco dining area where meals can be enjoyed when weather permits. The gym can be found on the Parisian Deck and the Lumiere Sun Deck provides a delightful sun exposed space with sun loungers and a Jacuzzi, ideal for relaxation and fantastic views. The atmosphere on board is informal, warm and welcoming and dedicated to discovery and relaxation. We hope this information booklet answers any questions you may have pertaining to the vessel and wish you a pleasant voyage.
VESSEL TECHNICAL DETAILS
Cabins: 28
Crew: 29
Cruise Speed: 9 knots
Length: 68 metres
Width: 10 metres
Draft: 3.6 metres
Built: 1970, re-launched 1998, renovated 2016 & upgraded in 2018ADAPTORS
Adaptors for hairdryers, mobile phones etc. can be obtained from the Reception Desk. These should be returned to Reception at the end of the cruise.
AIR-CONDITIONING
The ship is centrally air-conditioned throughout.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
The ship uses a public address system to advise guests of all important information and activities during the cruise. Announcements in English can be heard throughout the public areas of the ship and in all cabins.
BAR/BEVERAGES
A selection of wines, spirits, soft drinks, tea, coffee and water are available to purchase from the bar. Beer, wine and soft drinks are included with lunch and dinner on board.
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 double bed.
Category A (Lumiere) cabins range in size from 21 to 22 square metres and feature windows and a double bed.
CRUISE DIRECTOR
A Noble Caledonia Cruise Director and Tour Manager will accompany you on your voyage.
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 on board. 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.
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, and no formal dresses for ladies are 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 charger. We recommend that you bring a two-pin European adaptor for the 220V plug. Hairdryers are provided for your convenience in the bathrooms. If you require electrical medical equipment, please notify the Reservations Department as soon as possible.
EMBARKATION/DISEMBARKATION
Embarkation and disembarkation times will be provided by your Cruise Director or Tour Manager.
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. We ask you to collect your lifejacket from the cabin, proceed to the marked Muster Station and to follow instructions given by the Captain or crew members.
GRATUITIES
Gratuities have been included in your holiday price. GYM The Gym is located on the Parisian Deck.
HOUSEKEEPING
Housekeeping is available twice per day, in the morning and afternoon.
LAUNDRY SERVICE
There is a laundry service available at 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 should be handed to reception. Please ensure you have all of your belongings with you before you return home. Should you leave items on board the ship we are only able to return them to you at your own cost.
MAIL
Although reception staff are happy to post letters on your behalf, they may not be able to do so straightaway 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. Under no circumstances can we be held liable for such occurrences.
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 medical services can be provided at ports of call.
OPERATIONAL CHANGES
Our planned schedule may be changed at short notice due to weather conditions or technical reasons. Should there be any alterations the Captain or Cruise Director will inform you of the changes.
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.
QUESTIONNAIRES
A questionnaire will be provided to all passengers towards the end of their sailing. We would be grateful for you to complete and return this. 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.
SANITISERS
Please use the hand sanitisers near reception and the restaurant.
SMOKING
On MS Monet, the comfort, enjoyment and safety of all guests is paramount. All cabins are non-smoking. Smoking is only permitted on the 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. Please note that connection is dependent on weather conditions and location.
Please Note:
The information contained in this booklet should be used as a guideline only. Information is subject to change.
V.2 October 2019
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Deck plans
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Deckplan
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Travelling with You
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Lord (Richard) Chartres GCVO PC
Richard Chartres is an honorary fellow of Trinity College Cambridge where he studied history. He taught ancient history in the International School in Seville and is a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries.
After serving for more than 20 years as Bishop of London, he retired in 2017 and was appointed a Life Peer. He has over thirty years’ experience as a guest speaker on cruise ships.
Lord (Richard) Chartres GCVO PC will be on the following tour dates: 23 September to 2 October 2020
Tour Extensions
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For those who wish to spend some time discovering Istanbul before embarking the MS Monet we are offering a three night hotel extension with included sightseeing.
Hagia Sophia, Istanbul
The Itinerary
Day 1 London Heathrow to Istanbul, Turkey.
Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to the Marmara Pera Hotel (or similar) and check in for a three night stay. The rest of the evening is at leisure.
Day 2 Istanbul.
After breakfast take a guided tour to the Topkapi Place and explore its restored pavilions, harems and treasury before enjoying the sights of old Constantinople with visits to the Hippodrome and the Blue Mosque. Enjoy a local lunch before seeing the grandeur of the great Byzantine church of Santa Sophia.
Day 3 Istanbul.
Today is free to explore at your own pace. Maybe look for a bargain in the Grand Bazaar, visit the fascinating Basilica Cistern or take a boat trip on the Bosphorus. We meet this evening for dinner in a local restaurant.
Day 4 Istanbul.
After a leisurely morning we continue our exploration of this iconic city and visit the excellent Kariye Museum with its golden byzantine mosaics as well as the Suleymaniye Mosque overlooking the Golden Horn. After a local lunch, transfer to the MS Monet and embark.
Prices per person based on double occupancy
20 to 23 September 2020 Category Price Twin £745 Single £945 Price Includes: Three nights hotel accommodation in Istanbul with breakfast • Lunch on days 2 & 4 • Dinner on day 3 • Tours as described • Tour Manager • Gratuities • Transfers.
Not Included: Travel insurance, Turkish visa.
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Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000