POMPEII
One of Europe's most awe-inspiring roads, the circuitous Amalfi Drive is a thrill to travel. You will follow its every twist and turns, as it threads along the high rocky sea cliffs and passes several picturesque villages clinging precariously to the steep coastline. The views of the Italian Riviera and Bay of Naples are breathtaking. This time of the year, the landscape is blanketed in bright-hued flowers, and the coastal air is fresh and tinged with pleasant aromas of the sea.
After your drive along the Amalfi Coast and motorway, you will reach Pompeii. On August 24 in 79 AD, Mount Vesuvius erupted, and live cinder and ash began to fall, quickly submerging Pompeii and embalming its 30,000 inhabitants. The eruption left the town's architecture, furnishings, artwork, and even foodstuffs remarkably intact. Walk through paved streets rutted by chariot tracks and along wide sidewalks past a stadium, theaters, and temples. See the Forum, the baths, the patrician villas, and the shops of the common people. View body casts of the victims, caught in the moment of death.
After exploring Pompeii with you will be able enjoy some free time to check out the souvenir shops outside the main gates and also enjoy a delicious snack of famous Italian pizza from a local pizzeria before reboarding your motor coach for the return drive back along the Amalfi Coast to Amalfi and to the pier.
Notes: This tour requires two hours of walking over uneven terrain; comfortable shoes and sun protection are recommended. The drive involves many winding curves.
POSITANO DELUXE
Departing the pier by mini-coach, begin your day with a very pretty and panoramic drive along one of the most famous and popular coastlines in the world, the Amalfi Drive. On arriving in the town of Positano, the prettiest village along this stretch of the coast, view the white Moorish style houses that cling to the slopes encircling a small sparkling bay. Back when John Steinbeck lived here in 1953, the town was a forgotten fishing village loved by artists. It has since become a retreat for the wealthy and is now a popular resort area. Spend time browsing in some of Positano's boutiques that offer the casual, locally made cotton apparel for which the village is known.
Proceed to the luxurious San Pietro Hotel, frequented by the international elite and take in the spectacular views of the gulf. Situated on a cliff high above the sea, the San Pietro, with its sumptuous Neapolitan Baroque décor and garden terraces, is considered one of the world's most beautiful hotels. This will be the setting for your delicious Southern Italian lunch. During the scenic return drive, let your senses soak up the spectacular ever-changing panorama as you make your way back to the ship in Amalfi.
Notes: Order of sites visited may be reversed. If San Pietro Hotel is not available, Le Sirenuse Hotel or similar will be substituted. Participation is limited.
PRIVATE CAR / DRIVER 4 HRS
PRIVATE CAR / DRIVER 8 HRS
PRIVATE CAR / DRIVER EXTRA 1 HRS
PRIVATE ENGLISH SPEAKING GUIDE 4 HRS
PRIVATE ENGLISH SPEAKING GUIDE 8 HRS
PRIVATE ENGLISH SPEAKING GUIDE EXTRA 1 HRS
PRIVATE VAN / DRIVER 4 HRS
PRIVATE VAN / DRIVER 8 HRS
PRIVATE VAN / DRIVER EXTRA 1 HRS
RAVELLO
Depart the pier in Amalfi for a panoramic drive climbing up from the harbor to Ravello, one of the most famous and popular locations on the Amalfi coast. Perched high atop a promontory overlooking the sea, Ravello is the most romantic spot along the Costiera, and is frequented by many intellectuals and artists. The town's secret lies in the subtle intertwining of nature and culture, best witnessed through its many splendid gardens and historic villas. Your tour includes a visit of Villa Rufolo, a spectacular complex featuring a main "palazzo" built during the second half of the 13th century, and other buildings of Arabian-Sicilian style on a wide terrace facing the gulf.
The gardens at Villa Rufolo inspired Richard Wagner to create the magical garden of Klingsor for the second act of Parsifal. See what inspiration you can derive by exploring the luxurious garden, the "knights" room, and the Moorish courtyard. Departing the villa, free time is afforded in Ravello to visit a café, walk the peaceful gardens, or enjoy the dramatic views of the "Golfo di Salerno." During the return drive to Amalfi, let your senses become saturated as you reflect on the spectacular, ever-changing panorama of today's adventure.
Notes: The driving portion of this excursion is along slopes and hills of the coastline.
AIRPORT / HOTEL - SEDAN SINGLE
AIRPORT / HOTEL - VAN DOUBLE
AIRPORT / HOTEL - VAN SINGLE
AIRPORT / SHIP - SEDAN DOUBLE
AIRPORT / SHIP - SEDAN SINGLE
AIRPORT / SHIP - VAN DOUBLE
AIRPORT / SHIP - VAN SINGLE
AIRPORT /HOTEL - SEDAN DOUBLE
HOTEL / SHIP - SEDAN DOUBLE
HOTEL / SHIP - SEDAN SINGLE
HOTEL / SHIP - VAN DOUBLE
HOTEL / SHIP - VAN SINGLE
ROMA ON YOUR OWN
This is the ideal option for those who would like to explore the rich city of Rome entirely on their own. A convenient motorcoach transfer has been arranged with an English-speaking escort to provide you with valuable information and to answer your questions en route. The motorcoach departs shortly after the ship's arrival, and arrives in Rome after approximately 1½ hours. The drop-off and pickup point in Rome is on Viale Washington, near the Piazza del Popolo. Please return to the pickup point 15 minutes prior to departure, as the coach is not permitted to wait. Reflect on your wonderful day exploring Rome as you relax on the scenic return drive to the ship.
This is strictly a transfer with no sightseeing or other services included. For those guests intending to visit St. Peter's Basilica on their own, please note women must cover shoulders and knees and men must wear slacks.
Notes: On disembarkation days, this tour is for our guests who are remaining on board and continuing on the next sailing only.
SHIP / AIRPORT - MOTORCOACH
SHIP / DOWNTOWN - MOTORCOACH
PRIVATE CAR / DRIVER 4 HRS
PRIVATE CAR / DRIVER 8 HRS
PRIVATE CAR / DRIVER EXTRA 1 HRS
PRIVATE ENGLISH SPEAKING GUIDE 4 HRS
PRIVATE ENGLISH SPEAKING GUIDE 8 HRS
PRIVATE ENGLISH SPEAKING GUIDE EXTRA 1 HRS
PRIVATE VAN / DRIVER 4 HRS
PRIVATE VAN / DRIVER 8 HRS
PRIVATE VAN / DRIVER EXTRA 1 HRS
SPLIT MOUNTAIN & HISTORICAL GAETA
You will be going through the heart of Gaeta to discover the famous Montagna Spaccata or "Split Mountain", which still receives pilgrimages that go there to pray. This extraordinary geological phenomenon and the constant religious tradition made the Split Mountain internationally famous: during the centuries it has been visited by Saints, Popes and Kings.
Afterwards your walking tour will discover the historical center of Gaeta, which is represented by three gates. After your guided tour, you will be free to remain in the historical center to explore further on your own or to return with your guide and group back to the pier.
Note: Recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. At Split Mountain there are steps and grades to negotiate.
THE ABBEY OF MONTECASSINO
Join this half day excursion to the Abbey of Montecassino, located on the hill of the Town of Cassino, approximately a 90-minute drive to Gaeta. The Montecassino Monastery was founded by St. Benedict about 529 A.D. on the remnants of a pre-existing Roman fortification. Montecassino became famous for the prodigious life and the Sepulchre of its founder. Through the ages, the abbey was looked upon as a place of holiness, culture and art for which it became renowned world-wide.
After your guided visit of the Abbey, re-join your motor coach for the return drive to Gaeta and your ship
Note: Recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Conservative dress when visiting churches, knees and shoulders must be covered, shorts are inappropriate. The order of sights visited may vary
THE RUINS OF POMPEII
Departing the pier by motorcoach, you will be traveling approximately 2 hours along the southern scenic coastal highway to the excavations of Pompeii, one of the most famous in the world, and the frenetic city of Naples.
On August 24 in 79 AD, Mount Vesuvius erupted, and live cinder and ash began to fall, quickly submerging Pompeii and embalming its 30,000 inhabitants. The eruption left the town's architecture, furnishings, artwork, and even foodstuffs remarkably intact. Walk through paved streets rutted by chariot tracks and along wide sidewalks past a stadium, theaters, and temples. See the Forum, the baths, the patrician villas, and the shops of the common man. View body casts of the victims, caught in the moment of death.
On your arrival, you will enter Pompeii by the Sea Gate, where you will have an in-depth 90 minute tour of Pompeii with specialized tour guides. Afterwards you will reboard your motorcoach for a 30-minute drive in to Naples, to enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant on the sea-side, before returning to Gaeta and the pier.
Notes: This tour requires walking over uneven terrain; comfortable shoes and sun protection are recommended.
04/24/10 - Correction: The drive time to and from Pompeii is 2 hours each way. Previously published drive time was 1 hour each way. We apologies for any inconvenience this might cause.
PONZA’S GROTTOS BY MOTORLAUNCH
Meet your guide pier side and board your private motor launch. As you depart the harbor you pass a line of small arches, the entrance to the Grotte di Pilate, built by the Romans to harvest salt and breed one of their favorite delicacies, moray eels. The ingenious engineering of the caves means that the ebb and flow of the tide naturally replenishes the water supply. From there, the spectacular geology of the coast unfurls with cinematic drama. After rounding the Punta della Guardia, the island's most southerly tip, you reach the towering 650 feet cliffs of the Chiaia di Luna beach, so called because the color and texture closely resemble a glowing moon.
Each hidden cove reveals a better place to swim, the water a more intense hue of emerald. Be sure to bring your swimsuit and a towel from the ship as your tour will afford time for a swim before your return to the harbor.
Note: Participation is very limited.
FOOTSTEPS OF THE GODFATHER
Devotees of The Godfather: Part III, are sure to recognize many of the film's memorable sites on this tour of the Sicilian homeland of the notorious Corleone family. Follow a scenic coastal route to the hillside village of Savoca, where in the film Michael proposed marriage to Apollonia. Here you visit a private home that was the site for the film's "Bar Vitelli," which today is still open as a bar and houses a collection on the film. Also tour the Cappuccini Church, where the crypt houses an eerie collection of 18th-century mummies. From here, enjoy a walking tour past 15th and 16th-century churches to the panoramic summit. Your drive continues along a twisting corkscrew road to Forza d'Agro, a village that Francis Ford Coppola used in Godfather II and III. Landmarks include a 16th-century castle, the Church of S. Agostino and the Baroque Mother Church. From here, savor the sweeping views of Messina, before winding back from Godfather country to the pier.
Note: At printing, the catacombs are closed as the crypt is undergoing restoration; however, a limited number of mummies may be viewed in a separate room. Shoulders must be covered to enter churches.
MOUNT ETNA
Imagine a thrilling cable car ride up the slopes of Europe's largest active volcano. This adventure starts from the pier, with a drive that takes you through the ancient town of Naxos, before climbing a scenic road up Mt. Etna. Travel through small villages, lemon groves and pine woods. At the Crateri Silestri area, approximately 6,500 feet above sea level, transfer to the highlight of your excursion. Your will first take cable cars up part way, than by 4x4 vans up to the elevation of 9,500 feet. A professional alpine guide meets you here and accompanies you on your walk among the expansive volcanic fields, which afford sweeping vistas across the Catania Gulf. Enjoy 30 minutes of free time to explore the remnants of awe-inspiring streams of lava before beginning your descent from this surrealistic landscape.
Note: Operation of this tour is dependent on the safety and accessibility of Mt. Etna. Participants must be in good physical condition given the high altitude. Non-skid, closed-toe shoes and a windbreaker or sweater are recommended.
PRIVATE CAR / DRIVER 4 HRS
PRIVATE CAR / DRIVER 8 HRS
PRIVATE CAR / DRIVER EXTRA 1 HRS
PRIVATE ENGLISH SPEAKING GUIDE 4 HRS
PRIVATE ENGLISH SPEAKING GUIDE 8 HRS
PRIVATE ENGLISH SPEAKING GUIDE EXTRA 1 HRS
PRIVATE VAN / DRIVER 4 HRS
PRIVATE VAN / DRIVER 8 HRS
PRIVATE VAN / DRIVER EXTRA 1 HRS
SICILIAN COOKING WITH SIGNORA CONSOLI
Departing the pier by motorcoach, you will enjoy the scenic drive to Catania. Arriving in Catania you will walk to the center where there is one of the most ancient and typical markets in the region. There you will be discover and learn about the various ingredients such as the vegetables, fruits and fish typically used in Mediterranean cuisine, and you will enjoy the colors and the Sicilian folklore before you re-board your motorcoach for the drive to Viagrande.
Arrive at Viagrande, well known for its vineyards and gastronomic traditions, situated on the slopes of Mount Etna, become famous after being mentioned in the novel ("Nedda") by the Sicilian writer Giovanni Verga.
Here Signora Consoli, a well known Sicilian chef and gastronomic journalist, will welcome you in her home to show you how to prepare typical Sicilian Dishes. You will enjoy learning how to make authentic Sicilian specialities that are inspired by old traditional Sicilian recipes using fresh local ingredients that will stimulate all your senses. Afterwards you will have the opportunity to savour the delicacies you just prepared served on the terrace (weather permitting), before its time to reboard the motorcoach for the scenic drive back to the pier.
Note: As part of our new "Epicurean Collection" this tour is designed for a limited number of guests to offer a truly unique experience. Recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes.
TAORMINA & CASTELMOLA
Discover two delightful spots that exemplify the enchanting beauty of Sicily. The first, Castelmola, is considered one of the most beautiful villages in all Italy, yet it is rarely visited by non-Sicilians. A brief drive takes you to its elusive location, approximately 1,800 feet above sea level. At the Bar S. Giorgio visitors such as Rockefeller, Ford and Churchill have left their enthusiastic comments. Continue to Taormina, one of the Mediterranean's most popular resorts and renowned since antiquity for its climate and beauty. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the medieval Old Town where sites include the 15th-century Corvaja Palace and a 3rd-century Greek-Roman theater. Enjoy stunning views of Mt. Etna, the sparkling sea, and your ship far below. Free time is afforded to wander along the Corso Umberto and browse the boutiques tucked in its charming byways before returning from this scenic adventure.
Note: Recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes.
ANCIENT SEGESTA
Depart Trapani and begin the drive to Segesta, the exquisite archaeological site of the capital of ancient Elymian. Called "Egesta" by the Greeks and "Segesta" by the Romans, the city was built sometime in the 4th or 5th centuries BC. Legend holds that this town was founded by Alceste, son of the Trojan Egesta, who hosted Aeneas after the Trojan War. At Segesta, you have the opportunity to visit the magnificent Doric Temple, so well preserved it looks as if it had been built yesterday. Segesta's ancient temple can make a valid claim to being the best preserved in the world. As the tour concludes, re board your coach for the return drive to the pier
Notes: Recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes, there is extensive walking over uneven surfaces
MEDIEVAL ERICE
Visit the delightful medieval village that has been dedicated to love since antiquity. Your drive takes you to Erice, where a panoramic hill-top position offers views of Trapani, the sea and the Egadi Islands. The Norman influence is apparent in the stone buildings, towers and fortifications among the lovely English-style gardens scattered throughout the town. Following a walking tour of Erice, enjoy free time to browse the tempting shops that line the charming streets.
Notes: Recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Shoulders need to be covered to enter churches
PRIVATE CAR / DRIVER 4 HRS
PRIVATE CAR / DRIVER 8 HRS
PRIVATE CAR / DRIVER EXTRA 1 HRS
PRIVATE ENGLISH SPEAKING GUIDE 4 HRS
PRIVATE ENGLISH SPEAKING GUIDE 8 HRS
PRIVATE ENGLISH SPEAKING GUIDE EXTRA 1 HRS
PRIVATE VAN / DRIVER 4 HRS
PRIVATE VAN / DRIVER 8 HRS
PRIVATE VAN / DRIVER EXTRA 1 HRS
THE ART OF OLIVE OIL
Sicilian Olive Oil is well known all over the world. This tour offers you the possibility to learn about, and experience, the art of olive oil production. Departing from the pier drive towards the "via del sale" (the salt road) with the famous "Saline" fields and windmills. Reaching the well-known olive oil farm "Fontanasalsa", you will visit the olive tree groves and the production factory and taste the different types of oil produced along with "bruschetta" and other local delicacies. The farm's owner, Mrs Burgarella will briefly inform you about olive oil production and characteristics. A demonstration on the preparation of olive oil ice-cream will complete your unique experience on Sicilian olive oil to take home and share with your relatives and friends.
2-ISLAND DISCOVERY BY POWERBOAT & 4X4
A short distance from the ship, your powerboat will be waiting to take you on an exhilarating high-speed ride to the island of Gozo, which is popularly called The Island of Calypso, a nickname originating from the Greek mythological location of Ogygia referred to in Homer's Odyssey.
You will come in to Mgarr Harbor where your 4x4's and a crew will be waiting to take you to explore Gozo, to discovering its hidden corners and its breath taking photo opportunities. Depart Gozo by powerboat to the tiny Island of Comino, situated right in the middle of the channel that separates mainland Malta from the island of Gozo. The unspoiled island is a haven for all those who love swimming, snorkeling, diving, wind surfing and other water sports. At the Blue Lagoon you will have time to go swimming. With its crystal clear blue sea providing one of the most spectacular sights of the Maltese archipelago. With only about eight residents living on the Island, traffic is non-existent while noise is the exception.
Return to Valletta by powerboat, sit back and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze before returning to the pier in Valletta.
Note: Tour participation is extremely limited. Guests must be a minimum of 10 years of age to participate. Guests will need to wear their swim suits under their clothing, changing rooms are not available. Need to bring towels from the ship. Guests do not drive the 4x4 or powerboats. Recommend hats & sun block, as shade is limited on the powerboats. Itinerary is subject to change depending on weather, sea and road conditions. Visibility from all scenic outlooks is dependent upon the weather and therefore cannot be guaranteed. This tour is not recommended for guests who are pregnant or suffer from hip and back injuries.
ANCIENT HAGAR QIM
This excursion showcases the archaeology of Malta--long associated with prehistoric, megalithic structures that date back 6,000 years. The Megalithic Temples of Malta are amongst the most ancient religious sites on earth, described by the World Heritage Sites committee as a true "unique architectural masterpieces."
Your motorcoach will drive south to visit Hagar Qim's a shrine to Mother Earth, from here you can see the Mnajdra Temples. Your guide will take you to see the largest megalith at Hagar Qim, some 23 feet high and weighing around 20 tons each. Much has been unearthed at Hagar Qim, notably a decorated pillar altar, two table-altars and some of the `fat lady' statues now on display in the National Museum of Archaeology, Valletta.
You will then visit the Archaeological Museum in Valletta - this is an excellent place to discover Malta's fascinating prehistory. The building, built in 1575, now houses an important collection of archaeological finds from all over the island. The first rooms trace man's early settlement on the Islands up to the temple-building periods using a reconstruction of a rock-cut tomb. The collection includes obsidian cores and the Red Skorba figurines, which are predecessors of the temple period objects and statuary. The main hall is devoted to temple carvings, in particular the giant statue and altar blocks of Tarxien Temples. Of particular note are the exquisite figures of the 'Sleeping Lady' from the Hypogeum, and the 'Venus' of Hagar Qim. The last room exhibits some pottery from the temple period, together with tools of flint and obsidian, beads and other ornaments, all of which illustrate the remarkable artistic skill and sophistication of the Malta's prehistoric dwellers.
Note: Recommend comfortable walking shoes and sun hat
MALTA BY FLOATPLANE
Want to treat yourself to a unique and exhilarating experience? Than seeing the archipelago of Malta from 1000 feet in the air is for you. This breathtaking 30-minute flight will let you view all the highlights of Malta and its dramatic landscapes including the famous St. Paul's islands.
Your floatplane will be taking off and landing on the water from the spectacular Grand Harbor, with its specially modified bubble windows which are perfect for sightseeing and photography.
Note: Guests need to present their ship cards
MALTA ISLAND DISCOVERY
You will depart from the pier by motorcoach for a short drive to the Malta Experience in Valletta, a 45-minute movie presentation on the history of Malta's. Then, you will set out on a panoramic scenic drive to see this island's rich history, going back 6,000 years, despite the damage suffered in the bombing of WWII. Originally known as Birgu, derived from "Borgo" the Mediterranean term for a coastal village under the shelter of a fort or castle, its honorific name of Vittoriosa was granted as a result of its victorious stand in the Great Siege of 1565. You will continue your panoramic drive to the picturesque fishing village of Marsaxlokk with its quaint harbor, and colorful luzzu fishing boats. Than proceed north, past Mdina, Malta's old capital, passing through St Paul's Bay en route to the North of the Island. From the coastal road, you will be able see the island where St. Paul was shipwrecked in 60 AD before returning to the pier.
Note: This is mainly a panoramic driving tour with photo stops only.
MALTA'S CAPITALS: MDINA & VALLETTA
Acquaint yourself with two great capitals, both rich in architectural gems. A scenic drive takes you inland to Mdina; the island's former capital is one of the few great architectural treats in Malta that did not result from the activities of the Knights of St. John. The oldest city on the island, going back to pre-historic times, the word Mdina derives from the Arabic word "medina" which means "city".
Continue to Valletta, named after Grand Master Jean Parisot de la Valletta who inspired the Knights of St. John and led the Maltese to victory in 1565. Visit the monumental St. John's Co-Cathedral, and enjoy a walking tour to landmarks that include the Grand Master's Palace, the ruins of the Royal Opera House, and Our Lady of Victories Church. Cap it all off with great harbor views from the upper Barracca Gardens.
Your guide will walk you through both of these beautiful cities highlighting the main points of interest. You will also have some free time to roam around to discover and enjoy these historic cities.
Note: Ladies need to cover shoulders with shawls (provided) at entrance to Cathedral. Men cannot wear shorts in Cathedrals. Good walking shoes and sunhat recommended.
PRIVATE CAR / DRIVER / ENGLISH SPEAKING GUIDE 4 HRS
PRIVATE CAR / DRIVER / ENGLISH SPEAKING GUIDE 8 HRS
PRIVATE CAR / DRIVER / ENGLISH SPEAKING GUIDE EXTRA 1 HRS
PRIVATE VAN / DRIVER / ENGLISH SPEAKING GUIDE 4 HRS
PRIVATE VAN / DRIVER / ENGLISH SPEAKING GUIDE 8 HRS
PRIVATE VAN / DRIVER / ENGLISH SPEAKING GUIDE EXTRA 1 HRS