Valletta
Valletta 05/09/2024
Arrive in Valletta, Malta's capital city, surrounded by daunting limestone fortifications that date back to the 16th century. Embark Sea Cloud in the late afternoon, settle in, and enjoy the first night onboard. (D),
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05/09/2024 |
05/09/2024 |
Gozo
Gozo 05/10/2024
This morning, we visit Malta's "second island", Gozo, with our focus on the ancient megalithic temples of Ggantija, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Older than both the Pyramids of Giza and Stonehenge, the giant structures of Ggantija were built by civilizations that thrived here more than 5,000 years ago. We'll also visit the artfully restored medieval windmill of Ta' Kola—one of the many structures built by the Order of the Knights of Malta, who ruled the Maltese islands for centuries—before returning to Sea Cloud and an afternoon cruising to Sicily, with hopes of sailing in the afternoon winds. (B,L,D),
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05/10/2024 |
05/10/2024 |
At Sea
At Sea 05/10/2024
This morning, we visit Malta's "second island", Gozo, with our focus on the ancient megalithic temples of Ggantija, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Older than both the Pyramids of Giza and Stonehenge, the giant structures of Ggantija were built by civilizations that thrived here more than 5,000 years ago. We'll also visit the artfully restored medieval windmill of Ta' Kola—one of the many structures built by the Order of the Knights of Malta, who ruled the Maltese islands for centuries—before returning to Sea Cloud and an afternoon cruising to Sicily, with hopes of sailing in the afternoon winds. (B,L,D),
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05/10/2024 |
05/10/2024 |
At Sea
At Sea 05/11/2024
Join the expedition leader for a play-by-play description of the crew in the rigging and the action of the setting of square sails, staysails, and jibs as Sea Cloud shows her full glory. Bask in the comfort and intrigue of this legendary and historic square-rigger—enjoy delicious meals, complimentary drinks, and talks by the expedition staff as we sail toward Sicily. (B,L,D),
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05/11/2024 |
05/11/2024 |
Trapani
Trapani 05/12/2024
After Sea Cloud docks in Trapani this morning, we depart on an excursion up nearby Mount Erice to the intriguing medieval town of Erice. Perched 750 meters above Sicily's western coast, the panoramic views from the walled town are spectacular. Explore Erice with local guides and take time to wander on your own. Perhaps stop in at the renowned Pasticceria Maria Grammatico, or one of the many other local favorites, before more exploration in the town of Marsala. Famous for its fortified wines, this port city also houses an excellent museum devoted to its Punic (Carthaginian) history, as well as an excavated Punic warship and a recently opened excavated Roman merchant vessel. We finish with a visit and tasting at Marsala's most historic winery, Casa Florio, before returning to Sea Cloud in Trapani. Sail overnight to Porto Empedocle to visit Agrigento. (B,L,D),
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05/12/2024 |
05/12/2024 |
Erice
Erice 05/12/2024
After Sea Cloud docks in Trapani this morning, we depart on an excursion up nearby Mount Erice to the intriguing medieval town of Erice. Perched 750 meters above Sicily's western coast, the panoramic views from the walled town are spectacular. Explore Erice with local guides and take time to wander on your own. Perhaps stop in at the renowned Pasticceria Maria Grammatico, or one of the many other local favorites, before more exploration in the town of Marsala. Famous for its fortified wines, this port city also houses an excellent museum devoted to its Punic (Carthaginian) history, as well as an excavated Punic warship and a recently opened excavated Roman merchant vessel. We finish with a visit and tasting at Marsala's most historic winery, Casa Florio, before returning to Sea Cloud in Trapani. Sail overnight to Porto Empedocle to visit Agrigento. (B,L,D),
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05/12/2024 |
05/12/2024 |
Marsala
Marsala 05/12/2024
After Sea Cloud docks in Trapani this morning, we depart on an excursion up nearby Mount Erice to the intriguing medieval town of Erice. Perched 750 meters above Sicily's western coast, the panoramic views from the walled town are spectacular. Explore Erice with local guides and take time to wander on your own. Perhaps stop in at the renowned Pasticceria Maria Grammatico, or one of the many other local favorites, before more exploration in the town of Marsala. Famous for its fortified wines, this port city also houses an excellent museum devoted to its Punic (Carthaginian) history, as well as an excavated Punic warship and a recently opened excavated Roman merchant vessel. We finish with a visit and tasting at Marsala's most historic winery, Casa Florio, before returning to Sea Cloud in Trapani. Sail overnight to Porto Empedocle to visit Agrigento. (B,L,D),
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05/12/2024 |
05/12/2024 |
Porto Empedocle
Porto Empedocle 05/13/2024
Our next call is devoted to Agrigento's Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is a collection of some of antiquity's most magnificent Greco-Roman temples. Founded by the Greeks in the 6th century BC, the site served as a prominent city in Magna Graecia before eventually changing hands between the Carthaginians, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, and Normans. Explore the valley's grand row of Doric temples devoted to the likes of Zeus and Heracles. Return to Sea Cloud and cast off for a relaxing afternoon under sail. (B,L,D),
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05/13/2024 |
05/13/2024 |
Agrigento
Agrigento 05/13/2024
Our next call is devoted to Agrigento's Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is a collection of some of antiquity's most magnificent Greco-Roman temples. Founded by the Greeks in the 6th century BC, the site served as a prominent city in Magna Graecia before eventually changing hands between the Carthaginians, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, and Normans. Explore the valley's grand row of Doric temples devoted to the likes of Zeus and Heracles. Return to Sea Cloud and cast off for a relaxing afternoon under sail. (B,L,D),
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05/13/2024 |
05/13/2024 |
At Sea
At Sea 05/13/2024
Our next call is devoted to Agrigento's Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is a collection of some of antiquity's most magnificent Greco-Roman temples. Founded by the Greeks in the 6th century BC, the site served as a prominent city in Magna Graecia before eventually changing hands between the Carthaginians, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, and Normans. Explore the valley's grand row of Doric temples devoted to the likes of Zeus and Heracles. Return to Sea Cloud and cast off for a relaxing afternoon under sail. (B,L,D),
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05/13/2024 |
05/13/2024 |
At Sea
At Sea 05/14/2024
Grab your favorite deck chair, indulge in a good book, and listen to the ship part the surf as we sail along Sicily's southern coast. Weather permitting, stand on deck, and watch the orchestrated frenzy of crew members go aloft in the web of Sea Cloud's riggings to handset 30 sails. Or, attend a presentation from onboard historian or cultural expert about the region's rich history.,
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05/14/2024 |
05/14/2024 |
Siracusa
Siracusa 05/15/2024
Wake this morning to Siracusa, a city that once rivaled Athens in cultural and economic wealth. We'll explore the archeological park, which showcases one of the world's largest theaters of antiquity, a 15,000-seat arena hewn from bedrock, which is still in use today. We'll also visit the nearby limestone quarry, the cave of "Dionysus' Ear", and the Roman amphitheater before returning to Sea Cloud for lunch. This afternoon, venture to the enchanting island town of Ortygia to discover its numerous little piazzas and twisting alleys. But the main feature is the Duomo, or Cathedral, which was built from the ruins of Sicily's ancient Temple of Athena. The history of Sicily can be told in the walls of this incredible construction. (B,L,D),
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05/15/2024 |
05/15/2024 |
Taormina (Giardini Naxos)
Taormina (Giardini Naxos) 05/16/2024
We anchor off the port of Giardini Naxos and drive up to the intoxicatingly beautiful town of Taormina, which spills across the slopes at the foot of Mount Etna, dominating to the south. The stunning medieval town boasts the now-fashionable walk on the pedestrian Corso Umberto, lined with exquisite buildings, and ends at the Greco-Roman Theater. This unforgettable theater was built right into the cliffside, overlooking the vast sea below, in the 3rd century BC. From Taormina, we continue to the Castello degli Schiavi, a phenomenal 18th-century privately-owned villa, for a very special private lunch. Meet members of the family that still owns the villa and explore the extensive buildings and grounds that served as the setting for many scenes in The Godfather. Return to Sea Cloud, docked in the port of Messina. Enjoy dinner on deck as our vessel follows the wake of Odysseus through the narrow Strait of Messina, the bustling waterway that separates Sicily from the boot of Italy. It's the mythical location of Homer's monsters Scylla and Charybdis—the rock and the hard place whirlpools through which Odysseus had to sail. (B,L,D),
Optional Private Excursions
Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!
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Giardini Naxos: Greek Taormina Walking Tour - 3 hours
Meet your expert local guide today for the ascent up to the wonderful town of Taormina which has overlooked Mount Etna since Greek times. Perched atop a high cliff, Taormina seems to float above the azure waters of the Bay of Naxos. The air in Sicily’s most glamorous spot is perfumed with the scent of orange and lemon blossom, and here you’ll find narrow streets full of local colours and flavour.
Explore this little corner of paradise today with your guide. A stroll through Taormina’s main street, Corso Umberto, reveals numerous chic stores and a wealth of historic interest. Visit the Greek Theatre, whose unparalleled position offers spectacular views of Mt. Etna and the surrounding landscape.
Highlights:
- Take in the incredible views from the town of Taormina, which overlooks the Bay of Naxos
- Wonder through Taormina's charming streets and visit the Greek Theatre
Tour Duration: 3 hours
Tour can Operate: Morning/Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Luxury car or minivan transfers between Giardini Naxos and Taormina
- An expert English-speaking guide throughout (3 hours)
- Entrance fees to the Greek Theatre
- All taxes
Exclusions:
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
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Giardini Naxos: Syracuse & Ortigia Island - 8 hours
The city of Syracuse, birthplace of Archimedes, was once described by Cicero as: "the greatest Greek city and the most beautiful of them all." What began as a small Greek outpost would eventually become one of the most prosperous and powerful states in the entire ancient world.
From here take a short drive to the Neapolis to visit the Greek theatre, one of the most important examples of ancient theatre architecture in the world and once the centre of Siracusan life. Testament to its stature, it is said that famous Greek playwright Aeschylus once premiered works here. Sights also include the Roman Amphitheatre and the Latonia del Paradiso, the impressive ancient stone quarries and caves - the most famous of which was named "the Ear of Dionysius" by Caravaggio for its peculiar acoustic qualities.
A highlight of your day will be exploring the island of Ortigia, one of Sicily's most picture-perfect destinations and known for its beautiful white baroque architecture and the 5th century BC Temple of Athena.
Highlights:
- Explore the beautiful city of Syracuse
- Visit the Greek theatre at Neapolis, one of the most important examples of ancient theatre architecture in the world
- Discover the charming island of Ortigia
Tour Duration: 8 hours
Tour Can Operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
- An expert English-speaking guide throughout (8 hours)
- Entrance fees to the Neopolis Site
- All taxes
Exclusions:
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
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Giardini Naxos: Catania and Piazza Armerina - 8 hours
Enjoy two sides of Sicily today: modern life and ancient history. First stop of the day is the city of Catania, which sits at the foot of Mount Etna. Discover the very vibrant morning fish market and the many baroque buildings in the city built using the lava stones of Etna.
From here, continue into the beautiful, rural landscapes of central Sicily and the town of Piazza Armerina. Here you will visit the site of Villa Romana del Casale, considered to be one of the finest examples of aristocratic dwellings from the Western Roman Empire, both in terms of beauty and complexity. While little remains of the structure today, an unparalleled series of mosaics depict scenes from mythology, hunting and Roman domestic lifestyle in exquisite detail.
Highlights:
- Explore the city of Catania,including the morning fish market and the many buildings in the city built using the lava stones of Etna.
- Explore central Sicily and the town of Piazza Armerina, where you will visit the site of Villa Romana del Casale
Tour Duration: 8 hours
Tour can Operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Low
Inclusions:
- Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
- An expert English-speaking guide throughout (8 hours)
- Entrance fees to the Villa Romana del Casale
- All taxes
Exclusions:
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
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05/16/2024 |
05/16/2024 |
Taormina (Giardini Naxos)
Taormina (Giardini Naxos) 05/16/2024
We anchor off the port of Giardini Naxos and drive up to the intoxicatingly beautiful town of Taormina, which spills across the slopes at the foot of Mount Etna, dominating to the south. The stunning medieval town boasts the now-fashionable walk on the pedestrian Corso Umberto, lined with exquisite buildings, and ends at the Greco-Roman Theater. This unforgettable theater was built right into the cliffside, overlooking the vast sea below, in the 3rd century BC. From Taormina, we continue to the Castello degli Schiavi, a phenomenal 18th-century privately-owned villa, for a very special private lunch. Meet members of the family that still owns the villa and explore the extensive buildings and grounds that served as the setting for many scenes in The Godfather. Return to Sea Cloud, docked in the port of Messina. Enjoy dinner on deck as our vessel follows the wake of Odysseus through the narrow Strait of Messina, the bustling waterway that separates Sicily from the boot of Italy. It's the mythical location of Homer's monsters Scylla and Charybdis—the rock and the hard place whirlpools through which Odysseus had to sail. (B,L,D),
Optional Private Excursions
Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!
-
Giardini Naxos: Greek Taormina Walking Tour - 3 hours
Meet your expert local guide today for the ascent up to the wonderful town of Taormina which has overlooked Mount Etna since Greek times. Perched atop a high cliff, Taormina seems to float above the azure waters of the Bay of Naxos. The air in Sicily’s most glamorous spot is perfumed with the scent of orange and lemon blossom, and here you’ll find narrow streets full of local colours and flavour.
Explore this little corner of paradise today with your guide. A stroll through Taormina’s main street, Corso Umberto, reveals numerous chic stores and a wealth of historic interest. Visit the Greek Theatre, whose unparalleled position offers spectacular views of Mt. Etna and the surrounding landscape.
Highlights:
- Take in the incredible views from the town of Taormina, which overlooks the Bay of Naxos
- Wonder through Taormina's charming streets and visit the Greek Theatre
Tour Duration: 3 hours
Tour can Operate: Morning/Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Luxury car or minivan transfers between Giardini Naxos and Taormina
- An expert English-speaking guide throughout (3 hours)
- Entrance fees to the Greek Theatre
- All taxes
Exclusions:
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
-
Giardini Naxos: Syracuse & Ortigia Island - 8 hours
The city of Syracuse, birthplace of Archimedes, was once described by Cicero as: "the greatest Greek city and the most beautiful of them all." What began as a small Greek outpost would eventually become one of the most prosperous and powerful states in the entire ancient world.
From here take a short drive to the Neapolis to visit the Greek theatre, one of the most important examples of ancient theatre architecture in the world and once the centre of Siracusan life. Testament to its stature, it is said that famous Greek playwright Aeschylus once premiered works here. Sights also include the Roman Amphitheatre and the Latonia del Paradiso, the impressive ancient stone quarries and caves - the most famous of which was named "the Ear of Dionysius" by Caravaggio for its peculiar acoustic qualities.
A highlight of your day will be exploring the island of Ortigia, one of Sicily's most picture-perfect destinations and known for its beautiful white baroque architecture and the 5th century BC Temple of Athena.
Highlights:
- Explore the beautiful city of Syracuse
- Visit the Greek theatre at Neapolis, one of the most important examples of ancient theatre architecture in the world
- Discover the charming island of Ortigia
Tour Duration: 8 hours
Tour Can Operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
- An expert English-speaking guide throughout (8 hours)
- Entrance fees to the Neopolis Site
- All taxes
Exclusions:
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
-
Giardini Naxos: Catania and Piazza Armerina - 8 hours
Enjoy two sides of Sicily today: modern life and ancient history. First stop of the day is the city of Catania, which sits at the foot of Mount Etna. Discover the very vibrant morning fish market and the many baroque buildings in the city built using the lava stones of Etna.
From here, continue into the beautiful, rural landscapes of central Sicily and the town of Piazza Armerina. Here you will visit the site of Villa Romana del Casale, considered to be one of the finest examples of aristocratic dwellings from the Western Roman Empire, both in terms of beauty and complexity. While little remains of the structure today, an unparalleled series of mosaics depict scenes from mythology, hunting and Roman domestic lifestyle in exquisite detail.
Highlights:
- Explore the city of Catania,including the morning fish market and the many buildings in the city built using the lava stones of Etna.
- Explore central Sicily and the town of Piazza Armerina, where you will visit the site of Villa Romana del Casale
Tour Duration: 8 hours
Tour can Operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Low
Inclusions:
- Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
- An expert English-speaking guide throughout (8 hours)
- Entrance fees to the Villa Romana del Casale
- All taxes
Exclusions:
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
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05/16/2024 |
05/16/2024 |
Castello degli Schiavi
Castello degli Schiavi 05/16/2024
We anchor off the port of Giardini Naxos and drive up to the intoxicatingly beautiful town of Taormina, which spills across the slopes at the foot of Mount Etna, dominating to the south. The stunning medieval town boasts the now-fashionable walk on the pedestrian Corso Umberto, lined with exquisite buildings, and ends at the Greco-Roman Theater. This unforgettable theater was built right into the cliffside, overlooking the vast sea below, in the 3rd century BC. From Taormina, we continue to the Castello degli Schiavi, a phenomenal 18th-century privately-owned villa, for a very special private lunch. Meet members of the family that still owns the villa and explore the extensive buildings and grounds that served as the setting for many scenes in The Godfather. Return to Sea Cloud, docked in the port of Messina. Enjoy dinner on deck as our vessel follows the wake of Odysseus through the narrow Strait of Messina, the bustling waterway that separates Sicily from the boot of Italy. It's the mythical location of Homer's monsters Scylla and Charybdis—the rock and the hard place whirlpools through which Odysseus had to sail. (B,L,D),
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05/16/2024 |
05/16/2024 |
Messina, Sicily
Messina, Sicily 05/16/2024
We anchor off the port of Giardini Naxos and drive up to the intoxicatingly beautiful town of Taormina, which spills across the slopes at the foot of Mount Etna, dominating to the south. The stunning medieval town boasts the now-fashionable walk on the pedestrian Corso Umberto, lined with exquisite buildings, and ends at the Greco-Roman Theater. This unforgettable theater was built right into the cliffside, overlooking the vast sea below, in the 3rd century BC. From Taormina, we continue to the Castello degli Schiavi, a phenomenal 18th-century privately-owned villa, for a very special private lunch. Meet members of the family that still owns the villa and explore the extensive buildings and grounds that served as the setting for many scenes in The Godfather. Return to Sea Cloud, docked in the port of Messina. Enjoy dinner on deck as our vessel follows the wake of Odysseus through the narrow Strait of Messina, the bustling waterway that separates Sicily from the boot of Italy. It's the mythical location of Homer's monsters Scylla and Charybdis—the rock and the hard place whirlpools through which Odysseus had to sail. (B,L,D),
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05/16/2024 |
05/16/2024 |
Strait of Messina
Strait of Messina 05/16/2024
We anchor off the port of Giardini Naxos and drive up to the intoxicatingly beautiful town of Taormina, which spills across the slopes at the foot of Mount Etna, dominating to the south. The stunning medieval town boasts the now-fashionable walk on the pedestrian Corso Umberto, lined with exquisite buildings, and ends at the Greco-Roman Theater. This unforgettable theater was built right into the cliffside, overlooking the vast sea below, in the 3rd century BC. From Taormina, we continue to the Castello degli Schiavi, a phenomenal 18th-century privately-owned villa, for a very special private lunch. Meet members of the family that still owns the villa and explore the extensive buildings and grounds that served as the setting for many scenes in The Godfather. Return to Sea Cloud, docked in the port of Messina. Enjoy dinner on deck as our vessel follows the wake of Odysseus through the narrow Strait of Messina, the bustling waterway that separates Sicily from the boot of Italy. It's the mythical location of Homer's monsters Scylla and Charybdis—the rock and the hard place whirlpools through which Odysseus had to sail. (B,L,D),
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05/16/2024 |
05/16/2024 |
At Sea
At Sea 05/17/2024
The Aeolian Islands are not only famous for the winds of the god Aeolus, but also for some of the most well-known classical volcanoes. We'll sail in the morning with the islands of Vulcano and Stromboli in view, anchoring for the afternoon at Lipari. Here we'll go ashore for a scenic drive around the perimeter of the island, with fantastic views of the other Aeolian volcanoes, before returning to the main town. We visit the small but surprising archaeological museum that has an extensive collection of Neolithic artifacts made from the local obsidian, which provided the foundation of the island's prosperity during the Greco-Roman era. This evening, we'll have dinner on deck as Sea Cloud cruises the 25 miles to Stromboli—and with a little luck, we'll see some of the pyrotechnics of this active volcano. (B,L,D),
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05/17/2024 |
05/17/2024 |
Lipari
Lipari 05/17/2024
The Aeolian Islands are not only famous for the winds of the god Aeolus, but also for some of the most well-known classical volcanoes. We'll sail in the morning with the islands of Vulcano and Stromboli in view, anchoring for the afternoon at Lipari. Here we'll go ashore for a scenic drive around the perimeter of the island, with fantastic views of the other Aeolian volcanoes, before returning to the main town. We visit the small but surprising archaeological museum that has an extensive collection of Neolithic artifacts made from the local obsidian, which provided the foundation of the island's prosperity during the Greco-Roman era. This evening, we'll have dinner on deck as Sea Cloud cruises the 25 miles to Stromboli—and with a little luck, we'll see some of the pyrotechnics of this active volcano. (B,L,D),
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05/17/2024 |
05/17/2024 |
Stromboli
Stromboli 05/17/2024
The Aeolian Islands are not only famous for the winds of the god Aeolus, but also for some of the most well-known classical volcanoes. We'll sail in the morning with the islands of Vulcano and Stromboli in view, anchoring for the afternoon at Lipari. Here we'll go ashore for a scenic drive around the perimeter of the island, with fantastic views of the other Aeolian volcanoes, before returning to the main town. We visit the small but surprising archaeological museum that has an extensive collection of Neolithic artifacts made from the local obsidian, which provided the foundation of the island's prosperity during the Greco-Roman era. This evening, we'll have dinner on deck as Sea Cloud cruises the 25 miles to Stromboli—and with a little luck, we'll see some of the pyrotechnics of this active volcano. (B,L,D),
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05/17/2024 |
05/17/2024 |
At Sea
At Sea 05/18/2024
After such an action-packed voyage, we take a full day for sailing, reflection, and relaxation. Join our expedition staff for talks on the Lido Deck, as the captain takes advantage of the prevailing winds for optimal sailing. Aboard Sea Cloud there will be time to catch up on journals, photo reviews, questions, sample a collection of Sicilian wines, and to simply enjoy the thrill of an extended sail on this historic square-rigged tall ship. This evening, we'll celebrate our voyage with the Captain's farewell cocktail party and dinner at sunset. (B,L,D),
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05/18/2024 |
05/18/2024 |
Naples
Naples 05/19/2024
Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for your flight home. (B),
Optional Private Excursions
Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!
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Naples: Food Tour of Naples - 4 hours
Along with your expert guide, head into the heart of the historic centre of Naples and explore one of Naples’ best food markets. Your guide will lead you through the market stalls and shops, where you can sample some of the delicious local specialties. Continue along the alleys of the historic city centre to discover the most picturesque corners of Naples. Sites include the Greek ruins of Bellini square, the street of music (San Biagio dei Librai), San Gregorio Armeno street (famous for shops selling nativity scenes), Decumani and old churches decorated in Rococo style.
Stop for a wine tasting in one of the most famous wine shops in the city before the highlight of your tour: lunch in one of the world’s oldest pizzerias! Naples is the birthplace of the pizza. The Naples pizza margherita features a soft yet satisfyingly chewy base, all puffed up and charred at the edges, the merest smear of tomato sauce, the odd dot of mozzarella and a few basil leaves. Not to be missed is the pizza fritta - the original pizza and unique to Naples - a deep fried pizza filled with ricotta cheese. Heaven on a plate!
Highlights:
- Sample some delicious specialities at one of Naples' best food markets
- Visit one of the world's oldest pizzerias for lunch
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Tour can Operate: Morning/Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Low
Inclusions:
• Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
• An expert local guide (4 hours)
• Entrance fees
• All taxes
• Wine tasting and pizza
Exclusions:
• All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
• Gratuities
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Naples: The City of Naples - 8 hours
Naples' historic city centre is the largest in Europe, covering 4,200 acres and enclosing 27 centuries of history. One of the oldest continuously-inhabited cities in the world with Bronze Age Greek settlements dating back to the second millennium BC, the area was re-founded as Neápolis (‘new city’) in the sixth century BC, becoming a lynchpin of Magna Graecia and playing a key role in the merging of Greek culture into Roman society.
Explore Naples today with your expert guide. Highlights include the Spaccanapoli district, the magnificent Duomo cathedral, the Cappella Sansevero with its virtuosic sculptural masterpiece the Cristo Velato, as well as lesser-known gems such as the San Giovanni a Carbonara. Today’s tour encompasses artistic-historic treasures and plenty of local colour. Along the way, enjoy a bite of Naples’ famous street food ‘frittura’, a sinfully delicious mix of deep fried aubergines (eggplant), zucchini, mozzarella, arancini (rice croquettes), cauliflower, or potato croquettes.
Continue your sightseeing tour in the historic centre of Naples. Visit the Castel Nuovo, the imposing medieval structure built by the Angevins to defend the city. You may also wish to visit the adjoining Palazzo Reale (The Royal Palace Museum and Royal apartments), built in the 17th century. The magnificently decorated halls and rooms contain the original Bourbon furnishings, paintings, statues and porcelain. Enjoy a panoramic drive to reach the magnificent Carthusian Monastery, the Certosa di San Martino situated on Vomero Hill, where you may visit the luxuriously decorated Baroque Style church.
Highlights:
- Try Naples' famous street food as your guide shows you the historic sights of Italy
- Visit the medieval Castel Nuovo, whose magnificently decorated rooms contain original Bourbon furnishings, paintings and statues
Tour Duration: 8 hours
Tour can Operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Low
Inclusions:
• Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
• An expert local guide (8 hours)
• Entrance fees
• All taxes
Exclusions:
• All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
• Gratuities
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Naples: Historic Pompeii & Vesuvius - 9 hours
Travel outside Naples today for an excursion to Pompeii. Upon arrival at Pompeii, enjoy a walking tour of this once opulent town. The extensive and varied ruins of Pompeii now provide us with a rich history of life at the time of the Roman Empire. Destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 BC, this dugout treasure represents an amazing day trip for children and adults alike. On view are temples, forums, amphitheatres, a brothel and the casts of those killed by the falling ash and pumice stone.
Mount Vesuvius – 1281 meters high – was brought into volcanological history after the eruption of 79 BC, when it destroyed the towns and thousands of residents of Pompeii, Stabiae, and Herculaneum. Climb till the summit of the ‘mount’ this afternoon with your guide and admire the splendid views across the Bay of Naples. Lose yourself admiring its slopes, once covered with vineyards and woods that nowadays provide a spectacular backdrop for the bustling town below.
Highlights:
- The ruins of Pompeii provide an unparalleled window into life during the Roman Empire
- Climb to the summit of Mount Vesuvius to admire views across the Bay of Naples
Tour Duration: 9 hours
Tour can Operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Low
Inclusions:
• Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
• An expert local guide (8 hours)
• Entrance fees
• All taxes
Exclusions:
• All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
• Gratuities
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05/19/2024 |
05/19/2024 |
