Mediterranean Grace

Welcome to the ancient city of Athens, the 'Cradle of Western Civilisation'. If your schedule is tight, savor traditional Greek coffee at a café with a view of the city's iconic ruins, soaking in the historic ambiance before your cruise departs. If you've got time to explore the Acropolis stands as a must-see, a UNESCO World Heritage site, adorned with iconic structures like the Parthenon and nearby Temple of Olympian Zeus. The nearby Acropolis Museum showcases stunning artifacts from ancient Greece, providing deeper insight into the city's heritage.

Piraeus is located about 12 km (7.5 miles) from the city center and it takes roughly 20-30 minutes to reach by taxi or train. A taxi ride from the airport to Piraeus port will take approximately 40-60 minutes, depending on the traffic. The taxi fare (indicative only) is around 45 euros in the daytime and 64 euros at night (24:00-05:00).

The tiny island of Bozcaada floats peacefully off the western coast of Turkey in the Dardanelles Strait. This charming port boasts untouched bays with a rich marine life, delightful local culture, significant historical heritage, and world-class wine. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to the shore.

Top Things to Do in Bozcaada:

• taste some wines at the Corvus Vineyard
• explore the Bozcaada Castle
• enjoy a scenic drive to Polente Lighthouse
• stroll the cobblestone streets of Bozcaada town

Once the seat of two massive empires, Istanbul has been shaped by its colourful history. From massive Byzantine churches, to towering Ottoman mosques, history can be found in each building no matter what part of the city you wander through. Ships will dock at the Galataport cruise ship terminal which is a 40 minute drive from the Istanbul Airport.

Top Things to Do in Istanbul:

• marvel at the Blue Mosque
• haggle at the Grand Bazaar
• explore the Underground Cistern
• visit the Hagia Sofia

Messina is located on the northeastern corner of Sicily and is the panoramic gateway to the island. Sitting on a sickle-shaped harbour and under the gaze of Mt. Etna, the city is a patchwork of churches and antique palaces. Ships will dock at the cruise terminal.

Top Things to Do in Messina:

• take the scenic drive up Mt. Etna
• explore Taormina’s medieval streets
• enjoy a tasting at a local winery
• admire the Messina Cathedral's bell tower
• sail along the Strait of Messina
• eat a Sicilian Cannoli
  
  

Sorrento's colourful, sun-faded facades cascade down from green hills and cliffs to the Bay of Naples. Looking out from Sorrento, in the Gulf of Naples, is the isle of Capri. Well known for its sparkling Blue Grotto and as the playground of the rich and famous. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to the marina.

Top Things to Do in Sorrento and Capri:

• stroll the alleyways of Sorrento's Old Quarter
• drive along the scenic Sorrentine Peninsula
• spend the day exploring the isle of Capri
• explore the ancient city of Pompeii
• take the scenic drive along the Amalfi Coast

The ancient capital of the Western World and the centre of Christianity for nearly 2,000 years, Rome provides an inexhaustible feast of historical and cultural landmarks to explore. Visit the ruins of the Forum and the Colosseum, view the splendours of the Sistine Chapel, throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain or climb the Spanish Steps, once the heart of Rome's Bohemian Quarter.

Don't forget to treat your taste buds to the delights of authentic Roman cuisine, which is as captivating as the city's ancient wonders. Indulge in creamy gelato, savour the perfection of al dente pasta, and relish the thin, crispy crust of Roman-style pizza. Buon Appetito!

Serving as Rome’s seaport since the 13th century, Civitavecchia is located about an hour (80km/50mi) from the centre of Rome. For guests arriving and departing from the airport in Rome, a transfer to Civitavecchia port should be organised ahead of time with your cruise line. Details will be provided in your travel documentation after booking. The port area itself offers diverse dining options, and inside, facilities include accessible bathrooms, Wi-Fi, and a spacious waiting area. The port also offers complimentary shuttle buses to transfer guests between the ship and the port terminal.

Marvel at masterpieces in Florence's Uffizi Gallery and stroll across the iconic Ponte Vecchio. Visit the awe-inspiring Florence Cathedral with its magnificent dome designed by Brunelleschi. The city's rich history is reflected in its stunning architecture and vibrant street life, making it a treasure trove for art and history enthusiasts.

A short trip away, Pisa beckons with its world-famous Leaning Tower. Climb the tower for a breathtaking view of the Piazza dei Miracoli, home to the beautiful Pisa Cathedral and Baptistery. Explore the quaint streets of Pisa, enjoying its delightful cafes and shops. This city offers a perfect blend of history, art, and Italian charm.

Cinque Terre, on the rugged Italian Riviera coastline, comprises five charming villages: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Each village offers breathtaking views, colorful houses, and narrow winding streets. Monterosso features a lovely beach and the Church of San Giovanni Battista, while Vernazza captivates with its picturesque harbor and ancient Doria Castle. Indulge in local seafood delicacies and savor the region's renowned Sciacchetrà wine. 

The gateway to the Tuscany region and one of Italy's oldest port cities, Livorno is a small but historically rich city. Best known for its red-hued Fortezza Nuova and the surrounding area known as 'New Venice' where you can take a boat ride through its charming canals. While in Livorno, don't miss the Terrazza Mascagni, a picturesque promenade offering stunning views of the Ligurian Sea.

Cruise ships docking in Livorno typically use the Porto di Livorno, which is located approximately 13 kilometers (8 miles) from the historic city center of Pisa, and about 95 kilometers (59 miles) from Florence, requiring a 1.5-hour journey by coach.

A glitzy, glamorous coastal resort, Saint Tropez is the French Riviera hotspot of choice for A-listers and flotillas of gleaming yachts. While spectacular white sand beaches line the Gulf de Saint-Tropez, the Provencal countryside rises up behind the town with medieval villages, vineyards and lavender fields. Ships will anchor offshore and tender guests to shore.

Top Things to Do in Saint-Tropez:

• explore the medieval village of Grimaud
• relax on the famous Tahiti Beach
• enjoy a scenic drive of the peninsula
• shop the elegant boutiques

Your cruise finishes today in Barcelona, a captivating city on Spain's northeastern coast. If you're extending your stay in the city, start with a visit to La Sagrada Família, Antoni Gaudí's masterpiece, then wander through the narrow, historic streets of the Gothic Quarter.

The bustling La Boqueria Market offers a sensory overload with its colorful stalls and local delicacies. Stroll down Las Ramblas for street performances and shopping, and don't miss the stunning views from Park Güell. For art lovers, the Picasso Museum showcases an impressive collection of the artist's early works.