Nice
Nice 05/15/2024
Arrive in Nice and embark Sea Cloud II in the late afternoon. (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!
-
Nice - Shore Excursion - Discovery of Saint-Paul de Vence, Haut de Cagnes & Gourdon - 8 hours
Overview:
Meet your private English speaking driver guide who will wait for you with a nominative board at the main exit of your ship and depart for a visit of Saint Paul de vence, Haut de Cagnes & Gourdon.
Highlights:
- Saint Paul de Vence, built on a rocky outcrop and surrounded by its ramparts built on the order of Francois 1st, St Paul is certainly one of the most beautiful villages in Provence.
- Then enjoy a visit of Haut de Cagnes, a medieval quarter full of tiny streets, stairs, little restaurants and old houses that gradually descend down and blend with the modern lower city.
- Gourdon clings to the summit of a breathtakingly steep cliff at a height of 760 m and offers an unobstructed view of the Gorges du Loup and the Mediterranean. Clustered behind an imposing castle surrounded by gardens that were designed by Le Nôtre, the old houses have been well preserved and restored in this lively village where craftspeople are a driving force.
End of the tour at your ship
Tour Duration: 8 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: NO
Physical Activity Level: Light
Package includes
- English speaking licensed driver guide with a deluxe car with AC at disposal
- All entrance fees
- All tax and Vat
Does not include
- Lunch
- Gratuities
- Travel insurance and personal expenses
Departure dates
- All day, all year - except for French Bank Holidays, contact us for those dates
-
Nice Shore Excursion - Discovery of Nice, Eze & Monaco - 8 hours
Meet your private English speaking driver guide who will wait for you with a nominative board at the main exit of your ship and depart for a visit of Nice, Eze & Monaco.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Nice, the fifth largest city in France, acts as a magnet attracting people from all over the world, for a multitude of reasons. Elegant and simple, Nice's charm comes from its exceptional climate as well as its beauty. Even in the winter the café terraces are filled with people happily drinking and contemplating the ultra-famous Promenade des Anglais. Always in flower this wonderful walk follows along the bay, looking out onto the Baie des Anges and the beaches on one side, and on the other such luxury hotels as the Negresco.
- From Nice, take the Corniche road to Eze, a medieval village perched like an eagles nest on a narrow rocky peak overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.
- Monaco, one of those magic glamorous places that have a worldwide reputation, is situated on the French Riviera between Cap d'Ail and Menton, just a few kilometers from the Italian Riviera
End of the tour at your ship
Tour Duration: 8 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: NO
Physical Activity Level: Light
Package includes
- Transportation: pick up/drop off at the Port
- English speaking licensed driver guide with a deluxe car with AC at disposal
- All entrance fees
- All tax and Vat
Does not include
- Lunch
- Gratuities
- Travel insurance and personal expenses
Departure dates
- All day, all year - except for French Bank Holidays, contact us for those dates
-
Nice: Picturesque Towns of the Cote d’Azur – 8 hours
No visit to the stunning Cote d'Azur would be complete without a visit to Nice's wonderful Old Town and the charismatic village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence. Begin with a warm welcome from your driver-guide who will be delighted to discuss the local culture, history and lifestyle of the area. Discover the historic atmosphere of Nice's Old Town whilst taking in the aromas of its bustling market.
Continue on a scenic journey to the medieval village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence. This charming village, with its bohemian atmosphere, is a mecca for artists and here you have time for lunch at leisure ( payable locally). Later this afternoon, stop at the wonderful Rosary Chapel, considered by Henri Matisse to be his finest work. After your tour you will be privately transferred back to your cruise ship.
Highlights:
- Discover the historic atmosphere of Nice's Old Town and the bohemian charm of the village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence
- Make a stop at the wonderful Rosary Chapel, considered by Henri Matisse to be his finest work
Tour Duration: 8 Hours
Tour Can Operate: Morning/Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Private transport by luxury car or minivan
- An expert local driver-guide for 8 hours
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
- All taxes
Exclusions:
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
-
Nice - Full Day Tour - 8 hours
Nice Shore Excursion. This excursion will give you a wonderful glance at the beautiful city of Nice on the Riviera. You will be impressed by the colors of its market and during the afternoon you could visit Matisse Museum showing an important collection of the painter.
9:00 am: Be met at the foot of your cruise ship.
Everything is emphasized in Nice; the bright sunlight makes the colors flash. The green pines happily rub shoulders with the blue of the Mediterranean Sea and that of the sky. It is easy to see why the Côte d’Azur fascinates so many people. Many of the artists, painters, writers, sculptors and musicians who contributed to the city’s fame, have museums here, dedicated to their works.
In the morning, the Cours Saleya has daily flower and food markets. Low buildings border the length of Cours Saleya, separating it from the sea.
You will view the luxurious Belle Époque-style residences, including the fabulous Négresco palace, built on the sea front. The Négresco, whose dome can be admired from the Promenade des Anglais, is the finest example of Belle Époque architecture. Visit the Russian Church (open from Tuesdays to Sundays from 9:00 am to 12:00 and from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Closed during religious ceremonies).
Enjoy a walking tour of the old town. The old town’s soul and history are reflected in the narrow streets and alleys that curve, in an irregular fashion, among old buildings and red-tiled roofs. Give your taste buds a new experience and enjoy some socca with a glass of wine. Socca is a local specialty made from chickpea flour, and a trip to Nice would not be complete without having tasted it! Enjoy lunch at leisure in a typical restaurant in Nice. During the afternoon you could visit Matisse Museum. Situated on the hill of Cimiez, it displays an important monographic collection of works.
5.00 pm: return to your Hotel.
Tour Duration: 8 hours.
Tour can operate: Any Day
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes.
Physical Activity Level: Moderate.
Included:
Deluxe minivan that can carry up to 6 passengers
Professional English-speaking guide-driver who will chauffeur you on your sightseeing-tour and is licensed to guide and accompany you on walking tours as well as into museums and monuments.
24-hour assistance available during your stay
All taxes
Free entrance to Matisse Museum
(Matisse Museum is open every day except on Tuesdays from 10:00 to 6:00 pm)
Not Included:
Tips
Lunch or dinner
-
Nice & Cannes - Full Day Tour - 8 hours
Nice and Cannes Shore Excursion. This excursion is perfect for those who wish to discover the chic French Riviera: in Nice, you will be impressed by the colors of its market and during the afternoon pursue this excursion with the beautiful city of Cannes, famous for hosting every year the Film Festival.
9:00 am: Be met at the foot of your cruise ship.
Drive to Nice. Everything is emphasized in Nice; the bright sunlight makes the colors flash. The green pines happily rub shoulders with the blue of the Mediterranean Sea and that of the sky. It is easy to see why the Côte d’Azur fascinates so many people. Many of the artists, painters, writers, sculptors and musicians who contributed to the city’s fame, have museums here, dedicated to their works. You will view the luxurious Belle Époque-style residences, including the fabulous Négresco palace, built on the sea front. The Négresco, whose dome can be admired from the Promenade des Anglais, is the finest example of Belle Époque architecture. Visit the Russian Church (not available on Sunday mornings). Enjoy a walking tour of the old town. Enjoy lunch at leisure in a typical restaurant.
During the afternoon, drive to Cannes. Your guide will escort you to visit the city main points of interest:
Old town— The usual narrow winding streets filled with restaurants and souvenir shops. Covered Market (Marché Forville)— For a spectacular eating and viewing food experience, no other market in Cannes beats this for scale and variety.
Palais des Festivals— Down La Croisette is the famous Palais des Festivals, where stars of the screen gather and watch films screened during the festival. Irresistible not to pose for a photograph on the 22 steps leading up to the entrance.
Port— Admire the yachts of the rich and possibly famous - though true mega-yachts will be found at the International Yacht Club down the coast in Antibes.
La Croisette— Cannes catwalk beside the sea, it is the center of the city's tourist activity and known for its luxury hotels and boutique shops.
5.00 pm: return to your Hotel.
Tour Duration: 8 hours.
Tour can operate: Any Day
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes.
Physical Activity Level: Moderate.
Included:
Deluxe minivan that can carry up to 6 passengers
Professional English-speaking guide-driver who will chauffeur you on your sightseeing-tour and is licensed to guide and accompany you on walking tours as well as into museums and monuments.
24-hour assistance available during your stay
All taxes
Not Included:
Tips
Lunch or dinner
-
Nice, Villefranche & St Jean Cap Ferrat - Half Day Tour - 4 hours
Nice, Villefranche and St Jean Cap Ferrat Shore Excursion. You will be impressed by Nice’s lights and colors. In Villefranche you will have the opportunity to see the Chapelle Saint-Pierre which was restored by Jean Cocteau. Then, visit St. Jean Cap Ferrat, an exceptional site on the Mediterranean coast.
9:00 am or 2:00 pm: Be met at the foot of your cruise ship or your hotel.
Everything is emphasized in Nice. In this natural, rocky setting, the sun highlights the yellow shades of flowers and the ochre-colored houses. It is easy to see why the Côte d’Azur fascinates so many people. Many of the artists, painters, writers, sculptors and musicians who contributed to the city’s fame, have museums here dedicated to their works. You will view the luxurious Belle Époque-style residences, including the fabulous Négresco palace that is built on the sea front. The Négresco, whose dome can be admired from the Promenade des Anglais, is the finest example of Belle Époque architecture. In the morning, the Cours Saleya has daily flower and food markets. There are scores of stands, and you will find everything from professional merchants with their well-displayed wares to farmers that offer their fresh produce and live fowl on folding tables. Low buildings border the length of Cours Saleya, separating it from the sea.
Continue on to Villefranche and visit the Chapel Saint Pierre. This old "Norman" style chapel, devoted to St-Pierre, the patron saint of fishermen, was completely restored and decorated by Jean Cocteau. The artist wanted to decorate the chapel and make it into a place of worship, dedicated to the fishermen from Villefranche, Beaulieu and St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. Jean Cocteau wanted his artwork to evoke certain episodes in the Saint's life in a way that would be comprehensible to all.
Time permitting, continue your trip and drive towards St. Jean Cap Ferrat, an exceptional site on the Mediterranean coast. Its tranquility and warm climate make it a well-known vacation spot.
1:00 pm or 6:00 pm: Return to your ship or to your hotel.
Tour Duration: 4 hours.
Tour can operate: Any Day
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes.
Physical Activity Level: Moderate.
Included:
Deluxe minivan that can carry up to 6 passengers
Professional English-speaking guide-driver who will chauffeur you on your sightseeing-tour and is licensed to guide and accompany you on walking tours as well as into museums and monuments.
24-hour assistance available during your stay
All taxes
Not Included:
Tips
Lunch or dinner
|
05/15/2024 |
05/15/2024 |
At Sea
At Sea 05/16/2024
Gather on deck for a play-by-play description of the crew in the rigging and the action of setting square sails, staysails, and jibs as Sea Cloud II shows her full glory. Relax with a book on deck, and enjoy delicious meals and complimentary drinks. After lunch, begin your exploration of La Superba (Genoa's nickname meaning "The Proud One"). See its old city center, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the old port (Porto Antico), and the Arco della Vittoria, a monument to fallen solders of WWI. You can't miss the dramatic Cathedral of San Lorenzo, built originally as a Romanesque Basilica in the 1100s, remodeled in the Gothic style in 1307, and topped with a Renaissance dome in 1557. Inside, the large 15th-century Cappella di San Giovanni Battista is the earliest example of Renaissance architecture in Genoa, built to hold what are believed to be the remains of St. John the Baptist. Explore Plaza De Ferrari and pay a visit to Palazzo Ducale, or "Doge's Palace". Doges were chief magistrates during medieval times and the Renaissance, found particularly in Venice and Genoa. Originally constructed in 1298, the palace is now the cultural center of Genoa. Here you'll enjoy a tasting of some local delights such as gelato, Genoa's famous pesto, extra virgin olive oil, and—of course—wine and salami. Return to Sea Cloud II for the captain's welcome evening and an overnight docked in Genoa. (B,L,D),
|
05/16/2024 |
05/16/2024 |
Genoa, Italy
Genoa, Italy 05/16/2024
Gather on deck for a play-by-play description of the crew in the rigging and the action of setting square sails, staysails, and jibs as Sea Cloud II shows her full glory. Relax with a book on deck, and enjoy delicious meals and complimentary drinks. After lunch, begin your exploration of La Superba (Genoa's nickname meaning "The Proud One"). See its old city center, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the old port (Porto Antico), and the Arco della Vittoria, a monument to fallen solders of WWI. You can't miss the dramatic Cathedral of San Lorenzo, built originally as a Romanesque Basilica in the 1100s, remodeled in the Gothic style in 1307, and topped with a Renaissance dome in 1557. Inside, the large 15th-century Cappella di San Giovanni Battista is the earliest example of Renaissance architecture in Genoa, built to hold what are believed to be the remains of St. John the Baptist. Explore Plaza De Ferrari and pay a visit to Palazzo Ducale, or "Doge's Palace". Doges were chief magistrates during medieval times and the Renaissance, found particularly in Venice and Genoa. Originally constructed in 1298, the palace is now the cultural center of Genoa. Here you'll enjoy a tasting of some local delights such as gelato, Genoa's famous pesto, extra virgin olive oil, and—of course—wine and salami. Return to Sea Cloud II for the captain's welcome evening and an overnight docked in Genoa. (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!
-
Genoa: Genoa for Families - 8 hours
This morning you will be met by your English-speaking guide for a full day excursion to Genoa. Today you will immerse yourselves into the water world of this city! Your visit will start in the largest and most innovative sea museum of the Mediterranean, the Galata Museum, with a 10,000 sqm area set in a stone-and-glass building. It outlines the evolution of the maritime town’s port using an approach which is not exclusively scientific, in that it gives ample space to interactive and multimedia-related aspects. One of the museum’s gems is the faithful reconstruction of a 17th-century Genoese galley (being 40m long) placed upon its original slipway.
Besides the more traditional halls (about Colombo, Andrea Doria, and so forth), visitors can explore the Arsenal rooms, see the Darsena armoury, go aboard a 19th-century brigantine, finally going through a Cape Horn tempest recreated through virtual reality. Among the other exhibitions you can find the Waterfront Plan (“Affresco”) by Renzo Piano and the panoramic terrace MIRAGenova.
Visit the famous Aquarium, Europe’s largest marine park: 71 tanks, 800 species, and over 10,000 specimens set against the incomparable backdrop of the Gulf of Genoa. The tour (approx. 2 hours and 30 minutes) unfolds through the spectacular scenery of a myriad of sights of the Old Port of Genoa – the Aquarium is indeed located on the old wharf of Ponte Spinola – and through 40 large tanks, in addition to 19 open ones which use the space of a real ship called “Nave Italia”, allowing people to actually touch the fish by hand.
The reproduction of the original natural habitats of the individual species at the Genoa Aquarium is also wonderful: not only marine fauna but also reptiles, amphibians, and generally rainforest and freshwater animals.
Highlights:
- Visit the Galata Museum
- Europe’s largest marine park
- Old Port of Genoa
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
• Entrance fees to the Aquarium
Exclusions:
• All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
• Gratuities
-
Genoa: Portofino Walking Tour - 5 hours
Today you will be met by your local English-speaking guide for a walking tour of Portofino. This exclusive portal town is the perfect base for a stroll up in to the local cyprus lined hills, so capture some of the breath-taking coastal views. Visit the Castello di San Giorgio, built in the 1500s as a defence against the Turks. From here you can continue to the Punta del Capo and the Faro, an old lighthouse, where views are spectacular. Back in the central Piazzetta, visit the Divo Martino church where you can admire works by Maragliano.
Highlights:
• Take a walking tour of Portofino
• Castello di San Giorgio
• Visit the Divo Martino church
• Admire the works of Maragliano
Tour Duration: 5 hours
Tour Can Operate: Morning/Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
• Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
• An expert English-speaking guide in Portofino (3 hours)
• Entrance fees to the Castle
Exclusions:
• All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
• Gratuities
|
05/16/2024 |
05/16/2024 |
Camogli
Camogli 05/17/2024
Take a drive along the stunning Italian coast to the town of Camogli—once one of the Mediterranean's most powerful naval ports, Nicknamed "City of a Thousand White Ships" and inhabited since pre-historic times. Today, Camogli is one of the Italian Riviera's most picture-perfect villages. Take in its stunning panoramas, a charming harbor, narrow lanes lined with towering pastel-colored buildings, lovely cathedral, and ruined castle. Hear about 12th-century Dragone Castle's fascinating history and visit the Camogli Maritime Museum to learn about the city's maritime prowess and traditions. The Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta is the town's largest church, elegantly decorated with art and gold left by many of the town's seamen after they died. During your visit, enjoy a taste of Camogli's specialty: focaccia al formaggio, a staple street food in the region. Return to Sea Cloud II to enjoy onboard presentations, free time to enjoy sailing, and more, as she sails south along the picturesque coast of Italy. (B,L,D),
|
05/17/2024 |
05/17/2024 |
At Sea
At Sea 05/17/2024
Take a drive along the stunning Italian coast to the town of Camogli—once one of the Mediterranean's most powerful naval ports, Nicknamed "City of a Thousand White Ships" and inhabited since pre-historic times. Today, Camogli is one of the Italian Riviera's most picture-perfect villages. Take in its stunning panoramas, a charming harbor, narrow lanes lined with towering pastel-colored buildings, lovely cathedral, and ruined castle. Hear about 12th-century Dragone Castle's fascinating history and visit the Camogli Maritime Museum to learn about the city's maritime prowess and traditions. The Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta is the town's largest church, elegantly decorated with art and gold left by many of the town's seamen after they died. During your visit, enjoy a taste of Camogli's specialty: focaccia al formaggio, a staple street food in the region. Return to Sea Cloud II to enjoy onboard presentations, free time to enjoy sailing, and more, as she sails south along the picturesque coast of Italy. (B,L,D),
|
05/17/2024 |
05/17/2024 |
Viareggio
Viareggio 05/18/2024
The leaning tower—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—has long been the best-known attraction in the town of Pisa due to its uncanny stature as a result of the sandy base on which it was built. However, the tower is just a single component of a city with many notable architectural and historical achievements. Nowhere else in Italy are a city's key buildings aligned with such precision and or is there so beautiful a contrast of stonework and surrounding meadow. The Campo dei Miracoli (Field of Miracles), Duomo, Baptistery, and Camposanto complete an unrivaled quartet of medieval masterpieces. These—along with more than a dozen churches and palazzos—belong to Pisa's "Golden Age", from the 11th to the 13th century, when the city, then still a port, was one of the leading maritime powers of the Mediterranean. After time in Pisa, head to Pietrasanta, which grew to importance during the 15th century, mainly due to its connection with marble. Michelangelo was the first sculptor to recognize the beauty of the local stone. Today, artists and sculptors from all over the world are drawn to the city, known as "Little Athens" due to its marble studios. These studios mingle with small, elegant shops in the long alleyways lined with ochre-washed buildings with wooden shutters that radiate from Piazza del Duomo. Pietrasanta is the foremost place in the world for marble work, and you'll visit local artists and shops to see this time-honored artisanry in action. (B,L,D),
|
05/18/2024 |
05/18/2024 |
Pisa
Pisa 05/18/2024
The leaning tower—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—has long been the best-known attraction in the town of Pisa due to its uncanny stature as a result of the sandy base on which it was built. However, the tower is just a single component of a city with many notable architectural and historical achievements. Nowhere else in Italy are a city's key buildings aligned with such precision and or is there so beautiful a contrast of stonework and surrounding meadow. The Campo dei Miracoli (Field of Miracles), Duomo, Baptistery, and Camposanto complete an unrivaled quartet of medieval masterpieces. These—along with more than a dozen churches and palazzos—belong to Pisa's "Golden Age", from the 11th to the 13th century, when the city, then still a port, was one of the leading maritime powers of the Mediterranean. After time in Pisa, head to Pietrasanta, which grew to importance during the 15th century, mainly due to its connection with marble. Michelangelo was the first sculptor to recognize the beauty of the local stone. Today, artists and sculptors from all over the world are drawn to the city, known as "Little Athens" due to its marble studios. These studios mingle with small, elegant shops in the long alleyways lined with ochre-washed buildings with wooden shutters that radiate from Piazza del Duomo. Pietrasanta is the foremost place in the world for marble work, and you'll visit local artists and shops to see this time-honored artisanry in action. (B,L,D),
|
05/18/2024 |
05/18/2024 |
Pietrasanta
Pietrasanta 05/18/2024
The leaning tower—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—has long been the best-known attraction in the town of Pisa due to its uncanny stature as a result of the sandy base on which it was built. However, the tower is just a single component of a city with many notable architectural and historical achievements. Nowhere else in Italy are a city's key buildings aligned with such precision and or is there so beautiful a contrast of stonework and surrounding meadow. The Campo dei Miracoli (Field of Miracles), Duomo, Baptistery, and Camposanto complete an unrivaled quartet of medieval masterpieces. These—along with more than a dozen churches and palazzos—belong to Pisa's "Golden Age", from the 11th to the 13th century, when the city, then still a port, was one of the leading maritime powers of the Mediterranean. After time in Pisa, head to Pietrasanta, which grew to importance during the 15th century, mainly due to its connection with marble. Michelangelo was the first sculptor to recognize the beauty of the local stone. Today, artists and sculptors from all over the world are drawn to the city, known as "Little Athens" due to its marble studios. These studios mingle with small, elegant shops in the long alleyways lined with ochre-washed buildings with wooden shutters that radiate from Piazza del Duomo. Pietrasanta is the foremost place in the world for marble work, and you'll visit local artists and shops to see this time-honored artisanry in action. (B,L,D),
|
05/18/2024 |
05/18/2024 |
At Sea
At Sea 05/19/2024
Portoferraio is the main town on Elba Island, and its complex history is matched only by the labyrinth of small alleys and monuments to the passing ages found in its city center. The town was founded by the Romans (with the name of Fabricia) on a pre-existing Tuscan settlement. After the fall of Rome, it was destroyed by buccaneers and rebuilt in the 7th century under the name of Ferraia. In 1442 the Saracens destroyed it, and in the 16th century, the Grand Duke of Tuscany, Cosimo I of the Medici family, ordered the construction of imposing fortifications. The town was named Cosmopoli after him. Napoleon, after his forced abdication following the Treaty of Fontainebleau, was exiled to Elba Island, a time during which he enacted several reforms to improve the quality of life for its residents. Finally, under the reign of the Lorena family, the name Ferraia was reestablished and then changed into the present name of Portoferraio. Pay a visit to Villa dei Mulini (literally "Villa of the Mills"), Napoleon's primary residence on the island. After visiting the town, you will stop in a wine bar along the promenade to taste typical Elban dishes paired with local wines. (B,L,D),
|
05/19/2024 |
05/19/2024 |
Portoferraio, Elba
Portoferraio, Elba 05/19/2024
Portoferraio is the main town on Elba Island, and its complex history is matched only by the labyrinth of small alleys and monuments to the passing ages found in its city center. The town was founded by the Romans (with the name of Fabricia) on a pre-existing Tuscan settlement. After the fall of Rome, it was destroyed by buccaneers and rebuilt in the 7th century under the name of Ferraia. In 1442 the Saracens destroyed it, and in the 16th century, the Grand Duke of Tuscany, Cosimo I of the Medici family, ordered the construction of imposing fortifications. The town was named Cosmopoli after him. Napoleon, after his forced abdication following the Treaty of Fontainebleau, was exiled to Elba Island, a time during which he enacted several reforms to improve the quality of life for its residents. Finally, under the reign of the Lorena family, the name Ferraia was reestablished and then changed into the present name of Portoferraio. Pay a visit to Villa dei Mulini (literally "Villa of the Mills"), Napoleon's primary residence on the island. After visiting the town, you will stop in a wine bar along the promenade to taste typical Elban dishes paired with local wines. (B,L,D),
|
05/19/2024 |
05/19/2024 |
At Sea
At Sea 05/20/2024
A day at sea presents another opportunity to witness Sea Cloud II's sails aloft. Enjoy the ship plying the surf and sip on complimentary drinks as you catch up on reading, sort your photos, and learn from expedition staff presentations. (B,L,D),
|
05/20/2024 |
05/20/2024 |
Amalfi
Amalfi 05/21/2024
Sea Cloud II anchors off Amalfi this morning. This storied town, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site that comprises the entire Amalfi Coast, is known for pastel-hued houses that cling to steep-sided mountains. Stroll the waterfront, with its marina and shops; visit the ornate cathedral, with bronze doors dating from 1066; and wander the winding streets and alleyways to make your own discoveries. After exploring Amalfi, enjoy the captain's farewell evening as Sea Cloud II makes her way to Naples. (B,L,D),
|
05/21/2024 |
05/21/2024 |
At Sea
At Sea 05/21/2024
Sea Cloud II anchors off Amalfi this morning. This storied town, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site that comprises the entire Amalfi Coast, is known for pastel-hued houses that cling to steep-sided mountains. Stroll the waterfront, with its marina and shops; visit the ornate cathedral, with bronze doors dating from 1066; and wander the winding streets and alleyways to make your own discoveries. After exploring Amalfi, enjoy the captain's farewell evening as Sea Cloud II makes her way to Naples. (B,L,D),
|
05/21/2024 |
05/21/2024 |
Naples
Naples 05/22/2024
Arrive in Naples this morning. After breakfast, disembark 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!
-
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
-
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
-
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
|
05/22/2024 |
05/22/2024 |
