Deckplan

An exploration of Italy's islands combined with a call in Corsica aboard the MS Monet
This is a voyage that will appeal to those who love Italy and enjoy hopping between islands as it provides the opportunity to discover the delightful islands of Sicily, Lipari, Sardinia and Elba combined with a day on the beautiful French island of Corsica. The islands feature an array of ancient ruins, attractive towns and villages and we will have time on each to visit the main sites whilst also exploring some of the smaller ports and less visited regions that are perfectly suited for the MS Monet.
Sailing from the historic port of Valletta, we first visit Sicily which, with a history of 3000 years has a wealth of sites to discover from magnificent Doric temples to great Byzantine cathedrals and bizarrely styled villas. Lying just off the coast of Sicily, we will make the short hop over to the charming Aeolian island of Lipari for a day of exploration. Continuing to Sardinia, from Cagliari we will have the opportunity to visit the wonderful ruins of Nora and we will explore the Medieval city of Alghero as well as the Nuraghe Palmavera archaeological complex. We then sail to Corsica which, despite officially being a part of France, has its own identity and benefits from magnificent geographical diversity ranging from stunning natural harbours to picture perfect hilltop villages and majestic countryside. Our last call is the enchanting island of Elba, best known as Napoleon’s island of exile, before our voyage concludes in the Tuscan port of Livorno.
With a maximum of just 50 guests, our included guided tours will be relaxed, and our local guides and Guest Speaker will greatly enhance your enjoyment and understanding of these island gems which you will find yourself wanting to return to time and time again.
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.
Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to the MS Monet. Enjoy welcome drinks and dinner as we sail this evening.
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 choose between two excursions. 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. 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. After lunch on board, the afternoon is free to explore Syracuse independently.
From our berth in Messina there will be a choice of excursions. You may travel to the walled town of Taormina, a favoured tourist destination since the 19th century, lying in the shadow of Mount Etna, Europe’s highest volcano. Our guided tour will include a walk through the characteristic narrow alleys, a visit to the 15th century Palazzo Corvaja, and the impressive Greek Theatre, from where there are splendid views over the town and coastline. Alternatively, join an excursion to the town of Tindari, founded by Syracusan merchants during the war against Carthage in 396 BC. The ruins of the ancient city are relatively well preserved including the 4th century Greek Theatre which is a marvel of acoustic engineering. However, the foremost attraction is the Sanctuary of the Madonna Nera containing the sculpture of the Virgin and Child, in citron wood, and which is said to have reached Tindari in an attempt by the faithful to keep it safe from the 8th century Byzantine Iconoclast movement. Return to the ship for lunch and enjoy an afternoon at leisure.
We anchor this morning off the picturesque island of Lipari situated in the Aeolian Islands off the north coast of Sicily. We will use local tenders to land at Lipari town, a thriving little place prettily located between two harbours. Our tour will include a visit to the upper town set within fortress walls and a drive around the volcano followed by a visit to the Archaeological Museum with its impressive relics from nearby excavations. Please note that we will be at anchor today and use local tenders to go ashore.
This morning we visit the fascinating salt pans 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. Return to the ship for lunch and spend a relaxing afternoon at sea.
Arrive over breakfast in the Sardinian capital of Cagliari, an ancient city which dates back to the Phoenicians and Romans. From the port we drive along the south-western coast to reach Nora which was founded by the Phoenicians but also has Carthaginian and Roman ruins. After a period of Roman prosperity, there was a decline and in the 3rd century AD the city was engulfed by the sea. Still visible today are the remains of Carthaginian warehouses and various Roman buildings including the baths with splendid mosaics and the theatre. After lunch on board, there will be a guided walking tour through the old town with its narrow streets running along a steep hillside. See the terraced Piazza del Palazzo and the 14th century Cathedral of St Mary.
Arrive this morning in Oristano our base for an excursion to Tharros and San Giovanni. The ancient town of Tharros was erected by the Phoenicians in the 8th century BC on the ruins of a nuraghic settlement. In the 6th century BC it became a Punic stronghold and trading centre and grew further in importance under the Romans. The site still shows chamber and cremation burial grounds, temples and Roman baths together with buildings belonging to the early Christian period. The Church of San Giovanni di Sinis is a small early Christian structure dating from the 6th century AD, and one of the oldest in Sardinia. Return to the ship for lunch and an afternoon sailing.
We spend our final morning in Sardinia in Porto Torres. Here, a panoramic drive takes us to Nuraghe Palmavera with its main tower of the Nuraghe, which still has its dome shaped ceiling that dates back to 1100 BC. The complex, which was abandoned in the 5th century BC due to fire, shows the different phases of social life and political organisation of the tribal community. Continue to the Medieval city of Alghero, which was colonised by the Catalans in the 14th century and today there is still a strong Catalan identity throughout the town, and it is often even referred to as ‘Barceloneta’. Enjoy some free time to walk through the Medieval streets and along the city walls. Return to the ship for lunch and an afternoon at sea.
Situated on the north of the island of Corsica, Bastia was the old Genoese capital and is now a busy port. Its setting is handsome, the classic Mediterranean allure of pale, sunlit streets flanked by tall colourful buildings. Our walking tour of the historic quarter will include the 15th century cathedral, chapels, and Baroque buildings such as the Oratoire St Roch, Oratoire de l’Immaculee Conception and the Roccoco church, St Jean Baptiste, famous for its twin campaniles. After lunch on board you can spend some free time in Bastia or alternatively join an excursion to the small fishing port of St Florent. Our drive will take us through the Nebbio which takes its name from the thick mist that sweeps over the region and is now reputed for its fine wines from Patrimonio. On arrival in St Florent we will have time to wander the maze of narrow streets and to enjoy a coffee in one of the waterfront cafes whilst watching the yachts in the marina.
Today we call into the enchanting island of Elba, best known as Napoleon’s island of exile from 1814 to 1815. Departing from the island’s busy capital Portoferraio, we set out for a delightful drive exploring the southern region of this charming island with superb views over the coastline. The first stop will be Villa San Martino which was the summer residence of Napoleon Bonaparte and has been transformed into a museum. Later enjoy some time at leisure in Porto Azzurro with its picturesque harbour. Our drive continues along the coast to the 17th century country wine farm, La Chiusa, which is beautifully nestled in a vineyard estate surrounded by olive trees and overlooking the ocean. Like many of the island’s historic villas, La Chiusa claims to have once housed Napoleon during his exile here. We will tour the estate’s interesting cellar and learn how the wine is handled and produced and in the estate garden, which faces the sea, we will enjoy a delicious sampling of the local wine. Return to the ship for lunch and enjoy an afternoon at leisure in Portoferraio.
Disembark after breakfast and transfer to Pisa Airport for our scheduled flight to London.
Fly by scheduled flight to Pisa. On arrival transfer to the MS Monet which will be moored in Livorno. Enjoy welcome drinks and dinner as we sail this evening.
Today we call into the enchanting island of Elba, best known as Napoleon’s island of exile from 1814 to 1815. Departing from the island’s busy capital Portoferraio, we set out for a delightful drive exploring the southern region of this charming island with superb views over the coastline. The first stop will be Villa San Martino which was the summer residence of Napoleon Bonaparte and has been transformed into a museum. Later enjoy some time at leisure in Porto Azzurro with its picturesque harbour. Our drive continues along the coast to the 17th century country wine farm, La Chiusa, which is beautifully nestled in a vineyard estate surrounded by olive trees and overlooking the ocean. Like many of the island's historic villas, La Chiusa claims to have once housed Napoleon during his exile here. We will tour the estate’s interesting cellar and learn how the wine is handled and produced, and in the estate garden, which faces the sea, we will enjoy a delicious sampling of the local wine. Return to the ship for lunch and enjoy an afternoon at leisure in Portoferraio.
Situated on the north of the island of Corsica, Bastia was the old Genoese capital and is now a busy port. Its setting is handsome, the classic Mediterranean allure of pale, sunlit streets flanked by tall colourful buildings. Our walking tour of the historic quarter will include the 15th century cathedral, chapels, and Baroque buildings such as the Oratoire St Roch, Oratoire de l’Immaculee Conception and the Rococo church, St Jean Baptiste, famous for its twin campaniles. After lunch on board you can spend some free time in Bastia or alternatively join an excursion to the small fishing port of St Florent. Our drive will take us through the Nebbio which takes its name from the thick mist that sweeps over the region and is now reputed for its fine wines from Patrimonio. On arrival in St Florent we will have time to wander the maze of narrow streets and to enjoy a coffee in one of the waterfront cafes whilst watching the yachts in the marina.
After a morning at sea we arrive in Porto Torres. Here, a panoramic drive takes us to Nuraghe Palmavera with its main tower of the Nuraghe, which still has its dome shaped ceiling that dates back to 1100 BC. The complex, which was abandoned in the 5th century BC due to fire, shows the different phases of social life and political organisation of the tribal community. Continue to the Medieval city of Alghero, which was colonised by the Catalans in the 14th century and today there is still a strong Catalan identity throughout the town, and it is often even referred to as ‘Barceloneta’. Enjoy some free time to walk through the Medieval streets and along the city walls.
Arrive this morning in Oristano, our base for an excursion to Tharros and San Giovanni. The ancient town of Tharros was erected by the Phoenicians in the 8th century BC on the ruins of a nuraghic settlement. In the 6th century BC it became a Punic stronghold and trading centre and grew further in importance under the Romans. The site still shows chamber and cremation burial grounds, temples and Roman baths together with buildings belonging to the early Christian period. The Church of San Giovanni di Sinis is a small early Christian structure dating from the 6th century AD, and one of the oldest in Sardinia. Return to the ship for lunch and an afternoon sailing.
Arrive over breakfast in the Sardinian capital of Cagliari, an ancient city which dates back to the Phoenicians and Romans. From the port we drive along the south-western coast to reach Nora which was founded by the Phoenicians but also has Carthaginian and Roman ruins. After a period of Roman prosperity, there was a decline and in the 3rd century AD the city was engulfed by the sea. Still visible today are the remains of Carthaginian warehouses and various Roman buildings including the baths with splendid mosaics and the theatre. After lunch on board, there will be a guided walking tour through the old town with its narrow streets running along a steep hillside. See the terraced Piazza del Palazzo and the 14th century Cathedral of St Mary.
Enjoy a relaxing morning at sea. After lunch on board, we visit the fascinating salt pans 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.
Enjoy the morning at sea. This afternoon we anchor off the picturesque island of Lipari situated in the Aeolian Islands off the north coast of Sicily. We will use local tenders to land at Lipari town, a thriving little place prettily located between two harbours. Our tour will include a visit to the upper town set within fortress walls and a drive around the volcano followed by a visit to the Archaeological Museum with its impressive relics from nearby excavations. Please note that we will be at anchor today and use local tenders to go ashore.
From our berth in Messina there will be a choice of excursions. You may travel to the walled town of Taormina, a favoured tourist destination since the 19th century, lying in the shadow of Mount Etna, Europe’s highest volcano. Our guided tour will include a walk through the characteristic narrow alleys, a visit to the 15th century Palazzo Corvaja, and the impressive Greek Theatre, from which there are splendid views over the town and coastline. Alternatively, join an excursion to the town of Tindari, founded by Syracusan merchants during the war against Carthage in 396 BC. The ruins of the ancient city are relatively well preserved including the 4th century Greek Theatre which is a marvel of acoustic engineering. However, the foremost attraction is the Sanctuary of the Madonna Nera containing the sculpture of the Virgin and Child, in citron wood, and which is said to have reached Tindari in an attempt by the faithful to keep it safe from the 8th century Byzantine Iconoclast movement. Return to the ship for lunch and enjoy an afternoon at leisure.
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 choose between two excursions. 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. 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. After lunch on board, the afternoon is free to explore Syracuse independently.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London.
| 5 to 15 June 2028 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| D Twin/Double with portholes on Camille/Parisian Deck | £5595 | £5295 |
| C Twin/Double with windows on Parisian/Lumiere Deck | £5995 | £5695 |
| B Superior Double with windows on Lumiere Deck | £6495 | £6195 |
| A Deluxe Double with windows on Lumiere Deck | £7095 | £6795 |
| D Twin/Double with portholes on Camille/Parisian Deck for sole use | £7295 | £6995 |
| 15 to 25 June 2028 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| D Twin/Double with portholes on Camille/Parisian Deck | £5595 | £5295 |
| C Twin/Double with windows on Parisian/Lumiere Deck | £5995 | £5695 |
| B Superior Double with windows on Lumiere Deck | £6495 | £6195 |
| A Deluxe Double with windows on Lumiere Deck | £7095 | £6795 |
| D Twin/Double with portholes on Camille/Parisian Deck for sole use | £7295 | £6995 |
Tour Reference Code: SCMO050628/SCMO150628
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 • Shore excursions • Gratuities • Transfers • 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.

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.
Dr Steve Kershaw is a tutor in Classics for Oxford University Department for Continuing Education, an accredited lecturer for The Arts Society (ex- NADFAS), and lectures for the Victoria and Albert Museum’s Early Medieval: 300 - 1250 and The Classical World and Classical Revivals courses. His publications include The Penguin Dictionary of Classical Mythology, A Brief Guide to the Greek Myths, A Brief Guide to Classical Civilization, A Brief History of the Roman Empire, A Brief History of Atlantis: Plato’s Ideal State, Barbarians: Rebellion and Resistance to Rome, and Mythologica (a children’s book on the Greek myths). Steve is the author and tutor for Oxford University’s online courses in Greek Mythology, The Fall of Rome, and Minoans and Mycenaeans. In 2016 he appeared as an Expert Contributor to The History Channel’s Barbarians Rising series, and he has travelled widely in the world of the Greeks and Romans, both physically and intellectually. Steve is also an honors graduate of the Musicians Institute in Los Angeles, and is regarded as one of the finest jazz double bass players in the UK.
If you would like to spend some time in Malta, we are offering the opportunity to join a two night extension which includes a guided tour of both Valletta and Mdina.
Day 1 London to Valletta, Malta.
Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to our hotel and check in for a two night stay. After some time at leisure, we will meet for dinner this evening. (D)
Day 2 Valletta.
Enjoy a morning 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 Barakka Gardens. We will explore Merchants Street, containing the surviving auberges built by the Knights of St John of Jerusalem, together with the palace where Napoleon Bonaparte is believed to have stayed in 1798. Our final stop will be at St John’s Cathedral. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. (B)
Day 3 Mdina.
This morning we will tour the city of Mdina. Known as the “Silent City” at the heart of the island, Mdina was the fortified capital of the island before the arrival of the Knights. Enjoy a local lunch before transferring to the MS Monet moored in Valletta. (B, L)
| 3 to 5 June 2028 | |
|---|---|
| Category | Price |
| Twin | £945 |
| Single | £1245 |
Price Includes: Two nights hotel accommodation, meals as indicated (B - Breakfast, L - Lunch, D - Dinner), house wine, beer and soft drinks with lunches and dinners included, tours as described, Noble Caledonia Tour Manager, gratuities, transfers.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
After disembarking the MS Monet, we are offering the opportunity to join a two night extension in Malta.
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.
After breakfast check out and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London. (B)
| 25 to 27 June 2028 | |
|---|---|
| Category | Price |
| Twin | £945 |
| Single | £1245 |
Price Includes: Two nights hotel accommodation, meals as indicated (B - Breakfast, L - Lunch, D - Dinner), house wine, beer and soft drinks with lunches and dinners included, tours as described, Noble Caledonia Tour Manager, gratuities, transfers.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
A voyage between Athens & Split aboard the MS Monet
A voyage from Athens to Bari aboard the MS Monet
A voyage from Bari to Split aboard the MS Monet
A voyage from Split to Naples aboard the MS Monet
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000