Moorish Majesty

Lisbon, Portugal's vibrant capital, is a city of hills, history, and stunning views. Start your day at the iconic Belém Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site offering a glimpse into Portugal’s maritime past. Nearby, visit the Jerónimos Monastery, a masterpiece of Manueline architecture, where you can admire its intricate designs.

In the afternoon, explore the historic Alfama district, with its narrow, winding streets and traditional Fado music echoing from cozy taverns. Ride the famous Tram 28 to see landmarks like the Lisbon Cathedral and the São Jorge Castle. For a panoramic view of the city, head to the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte viewpoint.

Seville, the vibrant capital of Spain's Andalusia region, is renowned for its rich history and stunning architecture. Start your visit at the Seville Cathedral, the largest Gothic cathedral in the world, and climb the Giralda tower for panoramic city views. Just a short walk away is the Alcázar of Seville, a breathtaking royal palace with lush gardens and intricate Moorish design.

In the afternoon, explore the charming Barrio Santa Cruz, a maze of narrow streets filled with tapas bars, shops, and picturesque squares. Don’t miss the iconic Plaza de España, with its beautiful tiled alcoves and boating canal. Take a leisurely stroll along the Guadalquivir River, enjoying the lively atmosphere and scenic views.

Situated just across the narrow Strait of Gibraltar from Europe, Tangier has long comprised a hybrid culture that is nearly as European as it is African. Punctuated by blooming flowers, the entire town is a beautiful, moulded artwork of colour, spilling down the mountain like a waterfall. Ships will dock in Port de Tanger Ville.

Top Things to Do in Tangier:

• explore The Kasbah quarter of Tangier
• stroll through the Grand Socco market
• learn the history of Hercules Cave
• visit the blue city, Chefchaouen

Situated at the foothills of the Sierra de Gador mountain range, the Spanish coastal city of Almeria is renowned for its wonderful climate. The sun shines for more than 320 days a year and the city has a coastline of preserved beaches with an interior characterised by its typical desert ecosystem. Ships will dock at the Muelle de Levante.

Top Things to Do in Almeria:

• visit the Alcazaba, a medieval fortress
• explore the Cabo De Gata-nijar Natural Park
• 4x4 through the Tabernas Desert
• visit the Moorish village of Mojacar

Discover Tunis, a city rich with cultural and historical experiences. Wander the UNESCO-listed Medina, a maze of alleyways, souks, mausoleums, and palaces, showcasing the city's storied past. Don't miss the Bardo Museum, home to one of the world's greatest collections of Roman mosaics, for a glimpse into ancient artistry.

For a change of pace, explore Sidi Bou Said, a picturesque village with cobbled streets, vibrant courtyards, and iconic blue-and-white architecture, offering serene views over the Mediterranean.

Transport options from La Goulette port to Tunis are plentiful, with services providing efficient and affordable means to explore the capital's treasures. The connection from the port to the city is approximately 20 minutes (14.5km/9 miles).

La Goulette serves as the main cruise port for Tunis, Tunisia's vibrant capital. Ships dock at the La Goulette Cruise Terminal, located about 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) from central Tunis. The city can be reached in approximately 20 minutes by taxi or shuttle bus.

The entire city of Valletta, the capital of Malta, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cited as one of the most concentrated historic areas in the world, it’s a cultural hub for Baroque art, museums, and historic sites. Ships will dock at the cruise port.

Top Things to Do in Valletta:

• tour the ornate St. John’s Co-Cathedral
• explore the island of Gozo
• take in the view at Dingli Cliffs
• visit the Grand Master's Palace
• explore Malta’s ancient capital, Mdina
• stroll along the Valletta waterfront

Cephalonia, the largest of Greece's Ionian Islands, offers stunning landscapes and rich history. The island is famous for its crystal-clear waters, particularly at Myrtos Beach, known for its dramatic cliffs and turquoise sea. Visitors can explore the captivating Melissani Cave, where a boat tour reveals a mesmerizing underground lake illuminated by sunlight streaming through a hole in the cave’s roof. History enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the ancient ruins of Sami, a testament to the island's rich past. The island also had its part in the Battle of Greece during World War II, which later inspired Louis de Bernières' novel "Captain Corelli's Mandolin".

The modern and cosmopolitan town of Argostoli, stands on the far end of a natural bay surrounded by mountains and verdant forests. It’s a slower life here, especially since the town had to rebuild itself from the ground up following a 1953 earthquake that devastated the area. Ships will dock or anchor at this port.

Top Things to Do in Argostoli:

• explore the dramatic Drogarati Cave
• glide across subterranean Melissani Lake
• ascend Mount Ainos
• relax on the famous Myrtos beach
• taste some local wine at Robola Winery

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.