treasures of the mediterranean cruise

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Marella Discovery Cruise: Treasures of the Mediterranean – Review

By Mason Oldridge, July 2022

“You can teach to serve but you can’t teach service” were the words of Harlequin, the Head of Entertainment on our cruise (and yes, that IS his real name). His words stood out as it was a pretty good overview of the outstanding service we received throughout our week aboard the Marella Discovery.

Arriving in Palma, we sailed towards our first stop, Sardinia. Italy is a beautiful country and from our first morning dock, it became apparent what astonishing views we would be waking up to each day. The next arrivals offered up trips to the eerie archaeological site of the destroyed city of Pompeii, monuments such as the Colosseum and the Vatican in the stunning capital Rome, before moving on to the French island of Corsica and finally back to Spain for the chance to visit Barcelona. However, despite the opportunity to visit so many amazing places, it was the experience on board that stood out the most.

Dock view of Corsica, France

“Impressive”

The entertainment team, simply put, were fantastic. You’d maybe think that poolside sunbathers would wish to be left alone to sizzle in the sun but all the fun and games that the reps brought made our time on the pool deck a much funnier one (the 90s and 00s rave game was my personal favourite). Whether a quiz or a puzzle, the reps gave it their all and had both the port and starboard side in stiches. A massive shout-out to reps Ross, who was constantly hilarious and even played my song request in the nightclub, and Antony, a lovely guy despite always being on the losing side of the games.

The evening shows might not have been my cup of tea, but the cast were all fantastic in their performances and brought some impressive talent to the stage. At the helm of the entertainment was Harlequin who presented these shows and joined in with the fun and games in his friendly manner – a true credit to the ship’s crew.

Harlequin, the entertainment director (left), with Mason

“Quality service”

The cruiseliner was packed to the rafters with food and drink venues. You could help yourself at the Islands buffet or alternatively be dined on hand and foot at the fancier 47O club. Whichever venue you chose, you were guaranteed top quality service from the kindest of staff that ensured your dining experience was top notch. Unfortunately, the waiter service offered at 47 was counteracted with miniature portion sizes. Luckily, there were plenty of other places to fill up at! These included 47’s Italian counterpart Gallery 47 and The Glass House, a refreshing restaurant centred around the indoor pool and located next to the gym and spa.

Specialising in pizza, pasta and tapas, the crew went overboard (pun intended) to cater to your every whim and were a real asset to the team. We would have perhaps eaten here more if they didn’t require a dress code. The Snack Shack was fantastic to grab a quick bite of lunch, offering all the unhealthy favourites such as fish and chips, burgers, hot dogs and fried chicken as well as pre-packed sandwiches. The remaining eateries were at an additional cost which defies the concept of all-inclusive and therefore we didn’t try The Coffee Port, Sushi Bar, Asian fusion restaurant Kora La or the Surf & Turf Steakhouse.

Come night time (or perhaps earlier) there was plenty of choice of where to drink. The Pool Bar was a favourite in the daytime and the Squid & Anchor was popular for the evening. Karaoke was always a fun feature here but for those who fancied a bit more class to their evening, they could head downstairs to the Atrium Bar or Live Room for piano sessions and music performances. The Live Room also featured a casino for those who wanted to try their hand at rolling the dice.

Banana daiquiri from the Pool Bar

“Great selection”

Understandably, Marella is going to tailor their holidays to their audience but it would have been nice to have seen some more inclusion of nightlife for the younger generation. Bar Eleven was a fantastic bar on the very top floor and would have made a brilliant nightclub for the youth on board and so it was a shame that when the lights came on and the dancefloor opened up, the soundtrack still matched the older demographic. Whichever venue you found yourself in though, there was a great selection of drinks on offer; frustratingly, many were on a separate premium list, once again defying the purpose of all-inclusive and it wasn’t always clear which fell under which list.

The pool was definitely the centrepiece of the ship and a mainstay for the daytime. A great way to cool down from the glaring sun and paired with two hot tubs, it was just a shame that the time in it was spent keeping our heads dry to avoid the saltwater. Furthermore, the pool was not of an adequate size in relation to the size of the ship. However, it was almost impossible to not look at the blue waves with the reflection of the sun and think how fortunate you are to be there in that moment.

For the more active guests, the ship offered an array of activities. This included a climbing wall, a running track, a mini golf course and table tennis, plus an escape room (at an extra cost). One evening, the pool deck turned into an outdoor cinema which received a positive turnout to say it coincided with the evening show. This was not the only occurrence of the pool deck becoming alive at night as there was a midweek party which saw the majority of the guests head up to celebrate.

Amazing towel animals left by housekeeping

“Dedication”

However you spent your time, you’d retreat to your cabin at the end of the day to find a towel animal on your bed alongside chocolates. Whether you were returning to a swan, crab, or mouse, this particular gesture highlighted the dedication of the housekeeping team and so it was joyous to see them display their creations in the final night’s flag parade. Even when heading back to your room in the day, you’d be met with friendly smiles and polite welcomes across the whole floor, which is probably why Harlequin’s statement was met with an overwhelming applause.

In conclusion, despite the minor shortcomings, the holiday was one to really look back in fondness on and was a remarkable week of top quality service whether in the middle of the ocean or witnessing one of Europe’s stunning landmarks.

For info on booking visit: tui.co.uk/cruise

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Discover the Treasures of the Mediterranean

• Fully Guided

• Introduction
• Day 1 Ashdod, Israel
• Day 2 Ashdod, Israel
• Day 3 Haifa, Israel
• Day 4 Larnaca, Cyprus
• Day 5 Paphos, Cyprus
• Day 6 Antalya, Turkey
• Day 7 Kas, Turkey
• Day 8 Rhodes, Greece
• Day 9 Kos, Greece
• Day 10 Patmos, Greece
• Day 11 Kusadasi, Turkey
• Day 12 Athens (Piraeus), Greece
• Day 13 Transit through Corinth Canal - Itea, Greece
• Day 14 Lefkada, Greece
• Day 15 Parga, Greece - Corfu, Greece
• Day 16 Corfu, Greece
• Day 17 Corfu, Greece - Sarandë, Albania
• Day 18 Kotor, Montenegro – Dubrovnik, Croatia
• Day 19 Dubrovnik, Croatia

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What's Included

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Where You'll Stay

Emerald cruises ship.

Reviews About This Operator

• Tour Operator Emerald Cruises 4.4
• Nicholas · 11th September 2023 Superb experience with professional crew and minute attention to detail. Service excellent and staff always friendly... Show more
• David · 17th August 2022 So much fun. I would recommend this trip to anyone. Beautiful views. Friendly staff on board. Fun times. Great... Show more
• William · 24th July 2019 Excellent,knowledgeable and very well organized.

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• Tuesday 15 Apr, 2025 Saturday 3 May, 2025 English Emerald Azzurra €30,395 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates Hold space for 48h

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Treasures of the Mediterranean- Southbound

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This Mediterranean sea cruise takes in Provence, the French Riviera, Italy's Amalfi Coast, and remote Mediterranean islands by land and yacht. Prepare for sheer enchantment (and lots of walking) in Provence, where sights include a hilltop citadel, charming Aix-en-Provence, Avignon’s Palace of Popes, a Roman aqueduct, and legendary wineries. Experience Monte-Carlo, and board your 60-passenger motor-sailing yacht to discover the islands of Lipari, Ponza, Stromboli, Corsica, Sicily, and Malta. See fortified medieval towns, ornate cathedrals, ancient castles, and the incredible cliff-side drive along the Amalfi Coast. Feel like a jetsetter pulling into ports aboard Le Ponant, designed to access the small harbors and remote destinations that large ships can’t maneuver.

2008 Itinerary 2007 itinerary departures may still be available.

Southbound Click here for northbound itinerary.

• Indicates day of cruising

Day 1: Arrive in Arles Tour begins: 6:30 PM at Hôtel Jules César, Arles. Tauck’s Mediterranean sea cruise includes a transfer from Marseille-Provence International Airport to Hôtel Jules César in Arles. Welcome to Arles, one of Vincent Van Gogh’s favorite painting subjects. Meet your travel companions this evening at the welcome reception and dinner. Meals: Dinner Lodging: Hôtel Jules César, Arles, France

Day 2: Roman ruins and wine in Provence Take a walking tour of the Gothic cloisters at the Church of St-Trophime, dating from the 12th century. See Pont du Gard, a 2,000-year-old, three-tiered Roman bridge and aqueduct with impressive arches spanning the Gardon River. Next stop is the heavily fortified 14th-century Palace of the Popes in Avignon. Tour the Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine-growing region, and end the day with a local wine and food event. Meals: Breakfast, dinner Lodging: Hôtel Jules César, Arles, France

Day 3: Citadel of Les Baux Check out Van Gogh Bridge, and then walk up to the Citadel of Les Baux, once a hilltop stronghold of feudal lords. Travel to beautiful Aix-en-Provence, the city of a thousand fountains, featured in many paintings by Paul Cezanne. Meals: Breakfast, dinner Lodging: Grand Hotel Mercure Roi René, Aix-en-Provence, France

Day 4: Monte-Carlo magic Poke around the medieval hill town of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, a long-time artists’ magnet. Arrive in the Principality of Monaco, where your luxurious hotel is located above the harbor, near the world-famous Monte-Carlo Casino. Meals: Breakfast Lodging: Fairmont Monte Carlo, Monaco

• Day 5: Discover Nice Journey to Nice for a city tour, and then meander through the maze of streets in Old Town, where you’ll see pastel-colored buildings. Walk the Promenade des Anglais along the seafront, and discover the daily flower market in Cours Saleya. Board your yacht, Le Ponant, for the start of your Mediterranean Sea cruise to Corsica. Meals: Breakfast, dinner Lodging: Cruising aboard Le Ponant

• Day 6: Able was I ere I saw… the Island of Elba Aboard Le Ponant in the Mediterranean Sea cruise to the picturesque island of Elba and the secluded harbor of Porto Azzuro. Today you'll learn about the secluded, isolated life of Napoleon Bonaparte, who spent a brief exile on the island in 1814 prior to his daring escape. There's local entertainment aboard the ship this evening as you sail along the coast. Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner Lodging: Cruising aboard Le Ponant

• Day 7: Hidden Bonifacio Sail into the nearly hidden Corsican port of Bonifacio with a deep, narrow harbor sitting at the base of sheer limestone cliffs – a highlight of your Mediterranean Sea cruise. The fortified 12th-century town is built on the top of the cliffs with great views of the sea. Tour the walled fortress, explore medieval lanes, and see the former barracks of the French Foreign Legion. Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner Lodging: Cruising aboard Le Ponant

• Day 8: Island life in Ponza Stop to explore Ponza, the largest island in Italy’s Pontine Archipelago. The island features dramatic coves and cliffs, while the main town features yellow and pink houses, and a harbor full of fishing boats. Sail for Italy’s Amalfi Coast. Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner Lodging: Cruising aboard Le Ponant

• Day 9: The Amalfi Coast to Ravello Go ashore today to set out on the mountainous route along the Amalfi Coast, one of the most spectacular drives in the world. After a stop in the town of Amalfi, arrive in stunning Ravello, perched on cliffs overlooking the sea. Visit Villa Rufolo, the former residence of several popes, where you'll get some pretty spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea below. Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner Lodging: Cruising aboard Le Ponant

• Day 10: Sailing the Aeolian Isles Sail to Lipari, the largest of the seven Aeolian Islands. On your shore excursion, enjoy a guided sightseeing tour with free time to explore. Sail by the island of Stromboli, and see if its active volcano will provide a natural show. Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner Lodging: Cruising aboard Le Ponant

• Day 11: Taormina on Sicily Admire the view as you sail toward Taormina, a terraced town clinging to high cliffs on the east coast of Sicily with Mt. Etna towering in the distance. Stroll the Corso Umberto, Old Town’s main pedestrian street lined with cafés and pâtisseries. Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner Lodging: Cruising aboard Le Ponant

Day 12: Malta memories Sail into the dramatic Grand Harbor of Valletta on Malta, founded by the Knights of St. John in the 16th century, and disembark Le Ponant for the end of your Mediterranean Sea cruise. Tour the medieval walled city of Mdina, and take a coastal drive around St. Julian’s Bay. A highlight of your Valletta walking tour is the art treasure-filled Co-Cathedral of St. John, one of the world’s finest examples of Baroque architecture. Share favorite tour highlights at the farewell reception and dinner. Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner Lodging: Le Méridien Phoenicia, Valletta, Malta

Day 13: Ciao Mediterranean Tauck's incredible Mediterranean Sea cruise ends in Malta. A transfer is included from Le Méridien Phoenicia to Malta International Airport; you should allow 2 1⁄2 hours before the departure of our selected flights. If you are departing at other times, you may have to arrange your own transportation to the airport. Meals: Breakfast

Dates & Prices

May 22 Aug 28 Sep 11

13 Day Land / Cruise from $6,790 plus airfare

Special departures where the single price is $7990: May 11 and October 19, 2008 (northbound direction, begining in Malta).

30 meals included.

International Airfare is additional. Call Tauck for special rates on international air for travel originating in the U.S. (subject to availability). Departure tax is additional.

Land / Cruise Price includes private Tauck shore excursions, cruise fare, port charges, wine with dinner aboard Le Ponant, and gratuities to ship staff.

Travel North or South: This cruise operates both Northbound from Malta and Southbound from Marseille.

Please ask at time of booking about additional hotel nights before your tour begins and about our comprehensive Cruise Protection Plan.

All prices are per person in U.S. dollars.

• Cruise ID : 11410
• Cruise Type : Ocean
• Book By : 01 Jan 00
• Embarkation :
• Disembarkation :
• Region : Europe
• Departure : 07 Jun 16
• Cruise Line : Tauck Cruising
• Cruise Ship :
• Cruise Package Type : Cruise Only
• Ports of Call :

Important Terms

• * This product is priced in USD (USD), AUD rates can fluctuate depending on exchange rates, final rates in AUD will be confirmed by your consultant at time of booking.
• Prices shown are fully inclusive of taxes unless otherwise stated.
• Advertised price includes any bonus nights, special offers or discounts listed in the inclusions.
• Surcharges may apply due to demand, Christmas & New Year's Eve, school or public holidays, trade shows, special events & other unforeseen circumstances.
• Prices may be based on Dynamic Rates and as such, may fluctuate at anytime without notice, due to matters outside our control, such as adverse currency fluctuations, fuel surcharges, taxes and airfare increases, or at the property's discretion.

Cruise Line

Tauck cruising.

Go beyond the ordinary and experience cruise travel at its best with Tauck. What makes Tauck’s Small Ship Cruising and River Cruising unique is the focus on the destination. Each scenic ports of call connect you with people and places,  which will give you a moving, compelling and heart-warming experience both onboard and ashore.

Time ashore is enriched by in-depth cultural exploration and insider access that ensures up-close-and-personal connections with the locals and daily life. Tauck’s cruise travel adventures include guided sightseeing with local experts such as naturalists, historians, and accomplished lecturers. You’ll dine on regional cuisine on land at aboard ship that showcases specialties of the destination. After a day of extraordinary sightseeing, Tauck welcome you back onboard the hand-picked vessels for warm camaraderie and lively conversation that’s inherent on every Tauck cruise travel experience. The stories are endless, the memories are timeless and the connections priceless.

You can expect to see the sights a bit differently than you would with anyone else. Tauck explores Europe’s great waterways from the Rhine and the Danube to the Rhône and the Seine in France. Their luxurious riverboats are spacious and comfortable, welcoming you to an onboard experience characterized by the Tauck. Discover river cruises that go beyond the ordinary!

Tauck Voted World’s Best River Cruise Line

For the second time in three years, Tauck has been named the “World’s Best River Cruise Line" by the readers of Travel + Leisure, one of the world’s most authoritative and respected publications for travellers. The World’s Best Awards from Travel + Leisure are selected by the magazine’s readers. Every year, T+L holds a survey for readers to fill out on their main website. The survey remains open until April.

Winners are announced in the August/September issues of Travel + Leisure. These awards are given in categories such as hotels, resorts, spas, cruises, airlines, travel companies, tour operators, cities, islands, family travel, and more.

River Cruising

The heart of history meets the art of sophisticated river cruise travel aboard Tauck’s river cruises. Experience the Tauck difference on cruise travel days along great European waterways from the Rhine to the Danube, from the canals of the Netherlands to the Rhône, from the Main to the Danube and the Moselle…

You’ll cruise aboard spacious riverboats that have been custom designed to meet American standards with well appointed outside facing cabins and suites, a choice of on-board dining venues, complimentary wine with dinner, fitness centers and attentive personal service from Tauck’s staff and the ship’s crew.

Ancient civilizations beckon on cruise travel days along the River Nile in Egypt and China’s Yangtze River on Tauck’s Exotic journeys, where 3- and 4-night river cruise travel enhances land journeys.

Small Ship Cruising

The difference in Tauck’s small ship cruise travel lies in the choreography of the total cruise travel experience – the combination of personalized cruising with cultural land exploration. How you spend your days ashore – where you go, what you do, who you meet – that’s the Tauck difference. From the moment you step ashore, with 85 years of expertise on land ensures that on every cruise travel day, every moment of your shore excursions (all included in the price) count! Smaller ships hold fewer passengers, which means more personal attention from the captain and the crew – you’ll find the on-board atmosphere to be both club-like and comfortable. The pace is more relaxed, the conversations are richer, and the day-to-day experiences are shared with like-minded travelers.

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Treasures of the Mediterranean Isles

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• Explore the Corsican citadel of Bonifacio, perched on soaring sea-cliffs, with its medieval fortress, maze of streets, churches, mausoleums, and unique history
• Visit the prehistoric temple complex at Hagar Qim on Malta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site older than Stonehenge
• Discover Ortigia, a small island-city within the city of Siracusa – a romantic enclave of ancient temples and baroque architecture
• Explore the summit of Mount Etna, Europe’s largest volcano, with an experienced mountaineer-guide, and savor some of the most dramatic panoramic views of Sicily and the Mediterranean

What's this trip about?

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Travel themes.

• Local Immersion & Homestays
• Nature & Wildlife
• Small Ship Cruise

Destinations

Attractions, trip includes.

• Visit the waterfront Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean in Marseille, chronicling centuries of Mediterranean cultural influences in Europe
• Private Tauck Shore Excursions – $2,912 value!
• Enjoy exclusive visits to private villas and art collections in Palermo, drinks and canapes included
• Enjoy a gala Sardinian lunch at the Convent di San Giuseppe in Cagliari
• Enjoy a private wine-tasting and family-style lunch at a historic family winery on the foothills of Mount Etna
• Take a ride on a historic lift to the summit of Mount Capanne in Elba for the fabulous views
• Spend two nights at luxury hotels in Marseille or on the island of Malta
• Aboard ship – alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are available throughout the day aboard ship including house wines and spirits; premium spirits and wines are available at extra cost
• Airport transfers upon arrival and departure as noted
• 26 meals on land and sea, applicable fuel surcharges, service charges, porterage and taxes

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Meals: Dinner

Tour begins: 6:00 PM. A transfer is included from Marseille's international airport to the InterContinental Marseille Hotel Dieu, near the historic Panier district, or the Sofitel Marseille Vieux Port, overlooking the old harbor. Join us this evening for a welcome reception followed by dinner at your hotel.

Meals: Breakfast

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Tour ends: Valletta. Transfers are included from your hotel to Malta's Luqa International Airport. Transfers are approximately 20 minutes depending on time of day and traffic. Please allow three hours for check-in at the airport.

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Dates & Availability

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Tauck .

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

Tauck Reviews & Ratings

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My husband and I went on the Treasures of the Mediterranean Isles Trip jn October 2022. This was our third Tauck cruise with Ponnant but our first post covid and the...

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It's easy to see the world's sights. To stand in long lines, push through the crowds, and generally have the same standard-issue vacation as everyone else. But that's not good enough for us, and it's not good enough for you. We believe that travel should be easy. It should be fun. It should be worth your time and the price you paid. It should re-energize and transform. And above all else, it should be beyond the ordinary. Because how you see the world matters.

In 1882, Herman Tauck arrived in New York City from Germany in search of the American dream. His determination and values were passed on to his son, Arthur Tauck, who would realize that dream. With ingenuity and an innovative spirit, Arthur started Tauck Motor Tours, a travel company that would give birth to a new industry. The first tour, through the back roads of New England, was created by this 27-year-old in 1925. It embodied the same successful formula used by Tauck today: do the right thing. Craft a life-enriching travel experience; provide it at a single all-inclusive price; ensure there is great value for money; and rely on recommendations of satisfied customers to build a following and grow the business.

Two elements that did change over the next 90+ years – and three generations of Taucks – were the scope of destinations served and the variety of modes of travel used. Today Tauck delivers life-enriching travel experiences to every corner of the globe, incorporating small cruise ships, premium riverboats, trains, helicopters and more. What started as a New England motor coach tour company has truly evolved into an extraordinary global travel company. The fourth generation of Taucks is now involved in the company. While remarkable in any business, this seamless continuity across generations speaks to shared vision and values.

Throughout its history, the concept of “family” at Tauck has gone far beyond those sharing the surname to include hundreds of valued employees, and hundreds of thousands of loyal guests. The story of Tauck is the story of a unique American family company celebrating a passion for travel – a story that will continue to inspire generations to come.

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Treasures of the mediterranean cruise, ports of call: palma, majorca;  palamos, spain; ajaccio, corsica; civitavecchia (for rome), italy; salerno (for pompeii & amalfi coast), italy; palermo, sicily; palma, majorca, description.

Fly from Cork or Dublin to Majorca and board the Marella Voyager for this seven-night, all-inclusive cruise to Spain, Corsica and Italy- including the island of Sicily. Enjoy an all-inclusive cruise, with your drinks and tips taken care of before you fly.

Sail back to Palma where you transfer to the airport for your flight home, or choose to extend your holiday with a week in Majorca. Ask us for more information.

More Information

Palma: Envision lush boulevards resonating with the clack of stylish stilettos and cosy tapas bars nestled along narrow alleys. Uncover architectural treasures within the historic quarter, with the iconic cathedral gracing the skyline of cosmopolitan Palma.

Palamos, adorned with sun-drenched beaches, harbours a rich fishing heritage. Witness the daily auction of the day's catch on the quayside, or escape to the seaside for a day of relaxation and exploration.

Corsica captivates with its rugged peaks, verdant landscapes, and azure waters. Ajaccio, rising from a stunning gulf, exudes charm and serves as your gateway to the island's breathtaking scenery and quaint villages.

Rome, a city steeped in history and artistic magnificence, awaits with endless wonders and culinary delights. Lose yourself in its labyrinth of historical marvels and indulge in shopping amid designer boutiques.

Palermo, Sicily's vibrant capital, boasts a mesmerizing blend of Middle Eastern and Baroque architecture, along with bustling marketplaces teeming with vibrant colours. Explore its exotic allure and immerse yourself in its rich cultural tapestry.

Cruise Itinerary

DAY 1: Palma, Majorca

DAY 2: Palamos, Spain

DAY 3: Ajaccio, Corsica

DAY 4: Civitavecchia (for Rome), Italy

DAY 5: Salerno (for Pompeii & Amalfi Coast), Italy

DAY 6: Palermo, Sicily

DAY 7: At sea

DAY 8: Palma, Majorca

Onboard Marella Voyager

As the newest member of the Marella Cruises family, Marella Voyager’s facilities are fresh out of the wrapper. It set sail for the first time in June 2023 with a bar and restaurant offering that counts up to 10, as well as an indoor cinema, a pool deck – complete with a swimming pool and whirlpools – and a big show lounge. There are plenty of places where you can take in the sea views, too, from the mini golf course at the top of the ship to The Veranda, where cosy Balinese beds point towards the big blue.

DINING OPTIONS

The dining scene packs in a variety of restaurants, including a food hall that deals in globetrotting meal stations, waiter-service speciality spots and all-day grab ‘n’ go snacks. Marella Voyager boasts some exclusive eateries, too – its Mexican restaurant is the only one of its kind in the entire fleet. And, when it comes to bars, the line-up ticks off everything from the Squid & Anchor – our popular British-style pub – to the stylish Speakeasy Bar, which is brand new for this ship.

ENTERTAINMENT VENUES

Marella Voyager’s Broadway Show Lounge will be big enough to rival the theatres you’d find in London’s West End, and the shows will be best-in-class. There’ll be 12 for you to watch throughout your cruise, with a couple of showings every evening. Alternatively, you’ll be able to head to the Squid & Anchor and get involved with a quiz or a game show. Make your way to the Bar, Club and Casino, meanwhile, and you’ll be able to let loose on the dancefloor or try your luck at the blackjack and roulette tables.

SHIP FACILITIES

There’s something for everyone to enjoy onboard Marella Voyager. Little cruisers will have the game-filled M Club to kick back in, while older kids and teens will be in charge of Hideout – it’ll be loaded with games consoles. Elsewhere, grown-ups will be able to unwind during a pampering session at the spa and beauty salon. The whole family, meanwhile, can make the most of the crazy golf course and pool deck – the latter will boast a big swimming pool and a pair of whirlpool baths.

ACCOMMODATION

Every cabin on Marella Voyager comes with:

• Air-conditioning
• A hairdryer
• A flatscreen TV
• Wardrobe space
• Tea and coffee-making facilities

Price Details

Price per person is based on 2 adults sharing and includes:

• Return flights from Cork or Dublin
• Checked luggage
• Return airport transfers
• 7 night Treasures of the Mediterranean cruise onboard  Marella Voyager , in an inside cabin
• Marella Cruises are All-Inclusive: transfers, meals, drinks, tips & service charges are all included as standard

Please ask us about adding great value:

• Travel insurance
• Upgrade your cabin type

Subject to availability. Terms & conditions apply. 

For more information please call us on 021 493 5806 or 0818 300205, email  [email protected] , request a call back using the red button, or submit an enquiry through the form below.

Enquire about this holiday

Fill out the form below and one of our travel experts will be in touch with more information and to help you book.

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Treasures of the Mediterranean Isles

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• 2024 Northbound
• 2024 Southbound
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Accommodations

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Uniquely Tauck

EXPERIENCE WITH TAUCK

Explore the Corsican citadel of Bonifacio, perched on soaring sea-cliffs, with its medieval fortress, maze of streets, churches, mausoleums, and unique history

Visit the prehistoric temple complex at Hagar Qim on Malta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site older than Stonehenge 

Discover Ortigia, a small island-city within the city of Siracusa – a romantic enclave of ancient temples and baroque architecture

Explore the summit of Mount Etna, Europe's largest volcano, with an experienced mountaineer-guide, and savor some of the most dramatic panoramic views of Sicily and the Mediterranean

TAUCK VALUE INCLUDES

Private Tauck Shore Excursions – $3,866 value!

Visit private villas and art museums in Palermo, drinks and canapés included

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Guests should be able to easily walk one to two miles, which may include climbing one or two flights of stairs and walking over uneven pavement, groomed hiking trails or cobblestones. Standing up to one hour or more may be required.

Moderately paced, and may include some early morning hotel departures, one or two on-tour flights, and extended motor coach travel.

Cultural journeys and expeditions

Sail the Mediterranean to fabled islands of antiquity and romance... to turquoise seas, archipelagos, and out-of-the-way places where Jason searched for the Golden Fleece and Odysseus pursued Destiny. From the South of France to the island of Malta, enjoy world-renowned wine, local delicacies, and the cultural treasures of historic empires.

Discover the medieval harbor of bonifacio on the island of corsica.

In the 12th century, Boniface II of Tuscany built a fortified town at the tip of Corsica, perched above soaring white cliffs and crashing surf. The town of Bonifacio was meant to guard the Tuscan coast from Saracens and pirates, and its brilliant defensive position defied foreign assaults for centuries. The fjordlike harbor is only accessible to small ships and private yachts – oh, like the one you'll be sailing! Once ashore, you can hop a minitrain for a ride up to the citadel, wander the maze of medieval lanes, marvel at the fort and the breathtaking views, and drink in its turbulent history.

Ortygia, the magical little island within the island of Sicily

Cicero called Ortygia the most beautiful of Grecian cities, but that was then. Today, it's typically called the most beautiful of Italian cities, tucked away in the heart of Syracusa, on a romantic urban island of labyrinthine alleys, Greek temples, Baroque churches, palazzos of honey-hued stone, elegant piazzas, fountains, outdoor cafes, sea walls and promenades, and 3,000 years of history. From the Temple of Apollo to the Arab marketplace, the Byzantine church, the harborside medieval castle, and the anomalous statue of Athena atop the Duomo, the faded glories of past empires blend in this lively, enchanting place, a step outside of time.

The Mysterious Megalithic Temples of Malta

Legend says they were built by giants, a reasonable assumption since the Megalithic Temples on Malta are typically made of 50-ton stone blocks, piled 15 feet high. But more likely the prehistoric people who built them were normal sized, with technical skills beyond our expectations, which is why the temple complexes at Hagar Qim and Mnajdra in Qrendi, older than Stonehenge or the Pyramids, are UNESCO World Heritage sites, cultural monuments where you can delve into ancient mysteries and the building blocks of civilization.

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Welcome Aboard

• Le Bougainville
• Le Dumont-d'Urville

Ship Specifications

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Prestige Suite

(Two combined Prestige Staterooms)

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InterContinental Marseille – Hotel Dieu

Marseille, France

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Sofitel Marseille Vieux-Port

Nights 3-9 On Board

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Nights 10-11 Option 1

Malta Marriott Hotel & Spa

St. Julian, Malta

Nights 10-11 Option 2

The Westin Dragonara Resort, Malta

St. Julian's, Malta

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About Booking This Tour

Travel Documents

If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally, you will need a passport valid for six months beyond the completion of your Tauck journey for entry into France, Italy and Malta; however, you will not need a visa for the short duration of this tour.

If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally, please contact a consulate or embassy of France, Italy and Malta to determine what travel documentation is required.

Please Note: Longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation.

You will be issued a boarding card, which you must present before embarking the ship in each port. This security measure also ensures that only Tauck guests are permitted onboard.

International Maritime Security guidelines require that your passport information be provided to us prior to your embarkation. You need to provide this information to us as soon as you book your cruise or boarding may be denied. Once you board the cruise ship, your passport will be held by the purser until you disembark.

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

• Tour Name and Departure Date
• Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
• Traveler's Address(es)
• Email Address*
• Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
• Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
• Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
• Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposits & Final Payment

The deposit and the fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $1,500 per person

Final Payment is due to Tauck  60  days before departure for lands trips, and  120  days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Cruise Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection

Tauck's Cruise & Event Protection provides you with cancellation protection before your journey begins as well as insurance benefits while you are traveling. It must be purchased within 10 days of your initial deposit. Guest Protection includes the following:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON and Tauck will  reduce the regular cancellation fees outlined herein, provided we are notified of cancellation before your cruise departs. Certain terms and restrictions apply (see below*).

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.  Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  Should you cancel for covered reasons, the plan reimburses cancellation fees imposed, up to your total trip cost. 
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.

Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection is:   $799   per person

This plan provides cancellation coverage for your trip and other insurance coverages that apply only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Cruise and Event Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included in initial payment. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your reservation. Cruise and Event Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit  affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACCREINTL

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit

Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees.

If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit

Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply for this tour.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Cruise Protection Plan:

120 days or more before departure: Loss of cost of Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection fee per person 119 – 60 days before departure: Loss of 25% of the cost of the cruise, not including air (if applicable), plus loss of Cruise and Event Protection fee, per person 59 – 1 days before departure: Loss of 50% of the cost of the cruise, not including air (if applicable), plus loss of Cruise and Event Protection fee, per person Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Cruise Protection Plan: 120 days or more before departure: $1500 per person 119 – 60 days before departure: Loss of 50% of the cost of cruise, not including air (if applicable), per person 59 - 1 days before departure: Loss of 100% of the cost of cruise, not including air (if applicable), per person Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

Tour Interruption Fees

If you have to interrupt your tour en route, you may be entitled to a refund for the unused land portion if it exceeds 24 hours; certain restrictions apply. Such refunds are based upon the number of overnights missed less a fee of $40 per person per day for unused transportation and other fixed expenses.

Partial Room Cancellation

A person who cancels or leaves a tour while a roommate remains constitutes a cancellation of one type of accommodation and rebooking of another type of accommodation. The price charged to the remaining person is the new, higher price for the new accommodation.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation and transfer terms outlined herein. Note: All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Cruise & Event Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Terms and Conditions

Click here  to find Tauck's Travel Terms & Conditions.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Air Information and Luggage Restrictions

AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.

TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck hotel. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents.

AIRLINES and CHECKED LUGGAGE: Due to space limitations during your Tauck journey, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person. Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and are free to revise luggage policies without notice. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies. PLEASE NOTE that if you are booked on a tour that includes on-tour flights, the checked luggage weight restrictions for these flights may be lower than the weight restrictions for your international flights.

Checked Luggage – General

Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm). 

Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

Tauck luggage tags will be provided by your Tauck Director on Day 1 of your itinerary. Please do not attach a Tauck luggage tag to any carry-on items, as the Tauck tags designate luggage that is to be handled and transferred by ground operators and hotel staff during your journey.

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

All Ponant ships have a licensed and registered physician onboard for professional and emergency services, which are available at customary charges. The ship's small infirmary is designed to provide medical care for certain temporary illnesses and accidents, and is not intended to or capable of providing on-going treatment of pre-existing medical conditions.

Ponant ships are registered in France. If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

To enjoy this cruise you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. There is a moderate to significant amount of walking during our onshore excursions. For the most part, however, the amount of walking you do is at your discretion. 

PLEASE NOTE: We regret that this Tauck itinerary cannot accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters.  Likewise, we regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs.  The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest.  Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.On board the ship, certain outer decks have been designated as non-smoking areas. There is no smoking permitted in the interior of the ship. These regulations pertain to e-cigarettes as well.

Some ship to shore transportation is by the ship's tenders. Occasionally you will get wet with spray.

Onboard ship, health and fitness devotees will find a spa and fitness center on Deck 7.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.  Guests must advise Tauck at the time of booking any food allergies or special dietary requirements.

Smoking is not permitted on the motor coaches or inside the ship, including inside staterooms. Smoking is only permitted on the outer decks in the designated smoking areas. These regulations pertain to e-cigarettes as well.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey!

You can view the reading list  here.

Summer along the coast of Italy, France and in Malta ranges from very warm to hot, with temperatures often above 90°F (32°C) during the day and dropping only to 70°F (21°C) at night. In the fall the temperatures range from 60 to 80°F (16 to 27°C).

Rainfall can occur anytime throughout the year, though July and August are the driest months.

To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, noaa.gov , by clicking here.

What To Pack

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we've partnered with Necessary Gear who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site .

Southern France, coastal Italy and Malta in summer have very warm, if not hot, days and warm evenings, though at sea the evening breezes do provide cooler temperatures. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is flexible and allows for layering. Casual, cotton clothing is always advisable. A light jacket or sweater for the evenings on deck is also recommended. Comfortable yet sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in are a must, as many of the sites visited were built in antiquity and have uneven surfaces, some steep inclines and many steps. For the welcome and farewell receptions, casual resort wear is appropriate; formal wear is never required for dining with your fellow guests at a Tauck provided dinner. When traveling abroad, you may have the opportunity to dine at an upscale restaurant on your own, which may require men to dress in coat and tie, and women in more elegant eveningwear.

Shipboard attire is casual and informal. The usual dinner dress aboard the Ponant ship   is also casual and relaxed; while a jacket and tie is not required, shorts and bathing attire are not appropriate at meal times. However, the Captain's dinners aboard the Ponant ship   are occasions for festive attire.

Valet laundry and dry-cleaning services are available for a fee at all the hotels on this itinerary. On board, valet laundry and pressing services are available for a fee.

We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed. No medications are sold on board the cruise ship other than those prescribed and stocked by the ship's physician.

Hairdryers are located in all hotel rooms and shipboard staterooms. Hair curling and clothes irons are not permitted onboard the ship for safety reasons.

Following is a list of recommended items to pack for a cruise in the Mediterranean:

• Sturdy but comfortable walking shoes that have already been broken in
• Casual daytime wear – shorts, slacks, long and short-sleeved shirts
• Collapsible trekking pole or walking stick
• An optional jacket and tie for men
• Casually elegant evening wear for ladies
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
• A light sweater or jacket for higher elevations or a breezy night
• Binoculars (7x50 preferably)
• Insect repellent
• Camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards and chargers
• Lightweight, comfortable, sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in
• Travel alarm clock/cell phone with alarm function (many hotels do not have clocks in the rooms)
• Rain poncho and collapsible umbrella
• Reusable zipper-lock bags or other waterproof bags
• Daypack for camera equipment
• Sundries and toiletries that may be difficult to find en route
• Copies of your travel documents that should be secured in the safe in your ship cabin while traveling

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Iconic Mediterranean Treasures

• From $7,997
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• 6 Countries
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Iconic Mediterranean Treasures Map

Set sail through the storied ages

Visit ancient sites and cosmopolitan cities when you combine Ancient Mediterranean Treasures, Journey to Antiquities and Iconic Western Mediterranean into one captivating journey. See remarkably preserved ruins in Turkey and Greece, and call on some of the Mediterranean’s most beloved ports in Italy, Monaco, France and Spain. Overnights in Istanbul, Athens, Florence/Pisa and Barcelona allow you to fully explore the region’s wealth of cultural treasures.

SPRING SALE

Viking Inclusive Value

Pricing that covers everything guests need—and nothing they do not.

To learn more about each port of call and our included as well as optional excursions, click on the individual days below.

More features, services and excursions included

One complimentary shore excursion in every port of call

Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)

Beer, wine & soft drinks with onboard lunch & dinner

24-hour specialty coffees, teas  & bottled water

Port taxes & fees

Ground transfers with Viking Air purchase

Visits to UNESCO Sites

Enrichment lectures & Destination Performances

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I've been on 50 cruises. Here are 5 things I wish I'd known before sailing in the Mediterranean.

• I've been on 50 cruises around the world and took my first Mediterranean route last year.
• Picking the right time of the season to go can make a big difference in your trip.
• Before packing, I always check to see if any of the experiences I've booked have a dress code.

As someone who's taken over 50 cruises all over the world, I know firsthand how popular cruising is this year. But one seabound itinerary people often forget to add to their bucket lists is a Mediterranean cruise .

The dreamy ships take passengers around European destinations like Spain, France, Italy, and Greece.

After taking my first Mediterranean cruise last year, here's what I think everyone should know before booking the route.

Going early or late in the sailing season means fewer crowds and better weather.

Many cruise lines, like Virgin, Celebrity, and Disney, start the Mediterranean season in early spring and sail through early fall.

Going early or late in the season usually means you'll have more tolerable weather and smaller crowds in some of the big destinations like Athens .

I made the mistake of going on my Mediterranean cruise at the end of May (over Memorial Day weekend).

Some ports of call, like Nice, France, were easy to get around, but others like Rome were packed to the gills. I wanted the day to end before we even made it to the Vatican on our tour.

Arriving at your embarkation port early is key to having a smooth sailing.

My biggest tip for any cruise — but especially for Americans traveling to Europe for a Mediterranean cruise — is to arrive at your embarkation city at least a day before your sailing starts.

This gives you plenty of time to ensure you make it to the port, especially with the airline delays that typically spike in the summer. The boat isn't going to wait for you i f you don't land on time

Even though it means paying for lodging and likely a few meals before boarding the boat, getting a good night's sleep before a jam-packed vacation is worth it to me.

As a bonus, arriving early also gives you a chance to explore the city.

Be sure to pack at least one shirt with sleeves and bottoms that cover your knees.

Some of the major European tourist destinations have strict dress codes — typically everyone must at least cover their shoulders and knees out of respect.

If you're planning on checking out Vatican Ci t y in Italy or the Meteora monasteries in Greece, b e sure to pack at least one outfit that fits the bill.

Most cruise ships have laundry services (self-serve or valet), so you can wear the same dress-code-approved outfit for a few excursion days if needed.

Food tours are a great way to see a city, taste local dishes, and learn some history.

If you're looking for a unique excursion that still gives you the highlights of a European city, I recommend booking a food tour . I've done tours in places like Amsterdam, Budapest, and Paris, and I've never been disappointed.

Food tours can be booked through third-party travel operators, like TripAdvisor or Viator, and offer the chance to see some of the major landmarks of a city, try local dishes, and learn some history all in one outing.

The tours are usually led by locals, which means the guides can also give you some good recommendations if you have time before you need to return to the ship.

Consider booking tours through third-party sites.

Mediterranean cruises can last anywhere from seven days to two weeks, depending on the company and itinerary. Booking every excursion through the cruise line can add up, but luckily, there are typically more affordable options through third-party companies.

But I only book with third-party operators if the ship docks right at the city I want to explore because I never want to miss the all-aboard time.

For example, on my Mediterranean cruise last summer, the ship anchored at Cannes, and I was able to keep my eye on it throughout my excursion.

If the ship docks in a secondary location and you have to travel to the big tourist destinations , I always book excursions through the cruise line. For instance, the day my family and I explored Rome, the ship docked in Civitavecchia, Italy, and we had to take a two-hour bus ride into the city.

Booking with the cruise company guarantees your return to the ship, even if your excursion runs late.

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CELEBRITY CRUISES BIG BALCONY BONUS SALE! Limited Time Extra Savings & Onboard Credit! Find out more…

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Treasures of the Mediterranean

29th June 2024

Marella Voyager

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Take the hassle out of your holiday search and let our knowledgeable cruise agents find you the perfect cruise by phone! Call 02380 658 386

Your Itinerary

• Date   Port Arrive Depart
• 29/06/2024 Palma de Mallorca – 22:00
• 30/06/2024 At Sea – –
• 01/07/2024 Palermo 11:00 17:00
• 02/07/2024 Naples 07:00 17:00
• 03/07/2024 Civitavecchia 07:00 19:00
• 04/07/2024 Ajaccio, Corsica 09:00 15:00
• 05/07/2024 Palamós 09:00 17:00
• 06/07/2024 Palma de Mallorca 06:00 –
• 07/07/2024 At Sea – –
• 08/07/2024 Gibraltar 09:00 22:00
• 09/07/2024 Cádiz 08:00 18:00
• 10/07/2024 Málaga 08:00 17:00
• 11/07/2024 Almería 08:00 17:00
• 12/07/2024 Alicante 09:00 16:00
• 13/07/2024 Palma de Mallorca 06:00 –

Cabins & Prices

Ship features.

Voyager Suite

If you want to go all out, book one of our two Voyager Suites on Deck 10. Each one’s themed around one of our most-loved ports – cabin number 10042’s based on St Lucia, while cabin number 10046 takes inspiration from Santorini. These cabins measure up to 49m2, with enough room for four people. They come with a sofa bed and two single beds, which can be combined into a queen-sized number. In the bathroom, there’s a shower and a WC, while the balcony flaunts a table, chairs and loungers.

This cabin comes with Premier Service benefits, which include breakfast in bed once per person per week, and a free pressing service – the latter’s perfect for when you want to look your best for the Captain’s cocktail night.

Executive Suite

With 49m2 of space, our Executive Suites are some of the biggest options available on Marella Voyager. They sleep up to four people. There’s a queen-size bed in the main bedroom, which also boasts a walk-in wardrobe. The living room is fitted with a double sofa bed, and opens out onto a balcony that has loungers, a table and some chairs.

Junior Suite

The suites sleep up to three people, with two single beds that can combine into a queen-size option and a sofa bed. There’s also an en-suite with a shower and a WC. Head out onto the balcony, meanwhile, and you’ll find a table and some chairs.

Family Balcony Cabin

There’s room for the whole pack in our Family Balcony Cabins. Size-wise, they’re 20m2, and sleep up to five people. Each one’s fitted with a double bed, a sofa bed and a fold-down bed. You’ve also got an en-suite bathroom with a shower and a WC, as well as a furnished balcony.

Balcony Cabin – Large Balcony

These cabins give you everything you get from a balcony cabin, and throw a bigger balcony into the mix. They measure up at 16m2, while the balcony adds an extra 9m2 of space. This cabin type comes with two beds that can be put together to make a queen-size option, as well as an extra sofa bed. Plus, the en-suite sports a shower and a WC. 

Balcony Cabin

These cabins are perfect for taking in the sea views. Size-wise, they come in at 17m2, while the balcony adds another 5m2 for you to lounge on – it’s decked out with a table and two chairs. Inside, there are two twin beds that can convert into a queen-sized be, alongside a sofa bed. The en-suite, meanwhile, is fitted with a shower and WC. 

Outside Cabin

All of our Outside Cabins come with a porthole or a picture window. When it comes to size, they’re about 17m2, with two single beds that can be pushed together into a queen-size bed. There’s an en-suite with a shower and a WC. Just so you know, the ship has Outside Cabins that come with extra fold-down beds, too – ideal for parties of four.  

Family Inside Cabin

These cabins measure 19m2 and sleep up to five. They come with an area with a fixed double bed and a sliding door partition, which leads to a double sofa bed and a single fold-down bed. In the bathroom, meanwhile, you’ll find a WC and a shower.

Inside Cabin

These cabins measure up at around 16m2. You’ve got two single beds that can be converted into a queen bed, as well as an en-suite bathroom with a shower and a WC. Just so you know, the ship has Inside Cabins that come with extra fold-down beds, too – ideal for parties of four.  

Single Outside Cabin

These cabins are spot on for solo travellers. They come with twin beds that can be combined into a queen-size option, as well as an en-suite with a shower and WC. What’s more, they’ve got the added bonus of a picture window, so you can take in the sea views. They’re usually booked by cruisers travelling alone or friends who prefer their own cabin. 

Single Inside Cabin

Our Single Inside Cabins are perfect for solo travellers. Each one’s fitted with two single beds – which can be combined into a single queen-size bed – as well as an en-suite with a shower and a WC.  

Other Details

Gratuities: Marella Cruises don’t think tips and service charges should cost you extra, so they’ve included them in the price. You’re not expected to tip any of their crew – unless you want to, of course.

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7 of the best places to cruise in Italy

F ew countries can compete with Italy’s tourist appeal . Anyone who visits can enjoy fantastic cities, quaint villages, a string of picture-perfect coastlines, amazing cuisine and a fascinating history.

Alhough skiing , city breaks or a trip to one of the Italian lakes all have their own merits, there is a way to get a taste of several different parts of the country in one whirlwind trip.

Cruises around the Bel Paese give passengers the opportunity to see Italy ’s full range of sights. You can start with the romance of Venice and wind around to the rugged island beauty of Sicily and Sardinia, or begin surrounded by the stark coastal beauty of the Cinque Terre and end in hectic, characterful Naples , via the enchanting capital of Rome .

Whether you just want to see one destination or a handful, there’s likely a cruise to suit you; we’ve rounded up some of the best below.

Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast contains a little bit of everything that has made Italy so famous: beautiful coastlines, golden sands, picturesque towns, ancient historic sites and a hearty slice of la dolce vita .

The main towns along this coast include Amalfi, Sorrento and Positano , each renowned for offering a taste of the highlife in often luxurious surroundings, whether that be laid-back beaches or grandiose hotels. Pompeii lies close to these towns, offering an incredible insight into a famous bit of world history, while driving part of the Amalfi Coast’s winding roads is the best way to get amazing views while taking in some delightful towns.

How to do it

See both Sicily and the Amalfi Coast with the ‘ Amalfi & Sicily ’ seven-night package offered by Star Clippers. It starts in Civitavecchia, taking you to Amalfi and Sorrento before moving on to Messina and circling back to Rome.

Prices from £3,629pp including seven nights’ accommodation, all meals and drinks and select entertainment. Departing 6 July 2024.

Read more on the best hotels on the Amalfi coast

The capital is a beautiful fusion of historic and contemporary Italian life, from the modern cuisine and nightlife of Monti to the old houses and trattorias of Trastevere or Parione.

The Eternal City is also Europe’s most landmark-filled destination , with everything from Roman ruins to 18th-century fountains. The Colosseum, Roman Forum and Pantheon are the undoubtably highlights, as are the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain. The Vatican City is also contained within Rome, and you don’t want to miss the Sistine Chapel or St Peter’s Basilica.

Most cruises to this part of the country actually dock at nearby Civitavecchia, which is roughly one hour from the capital. Rome is often a starting point for cruises too, as passengers can head north to the Cinque Terre, east to Sardinia and south to Naples and Sicily.

The  Italian Treasures  cruise offered by Atlas Ocean Voyages begins in Valletta , the historic Maltese capital, but after departing very much focuses on the eastern Italian coast. It stops for a night in both Syracuse and Giardini Naxos (on Sicily), before departing to the Amalfi Coast and Capri and then finishing in the capital, where you can explore at your leisure before flying home.

Prices from £2,946pp including eight nights’ accommodation, all meals and drinks and onshore excursions. The company is currently running a promotion where the ‘second guest sails free’, so it is possible to get the entire package for just £2,946. Departing 1 September 2024.

Read more on the best hotels in Rome

Venice is perhaps the most beautiful of all Italian cities, situated on a vast lagoon and criss-crossed by dozens of bridges that hang over its canals. Its waterways are lined with the colourful facades of centuries-old buildings, many of which carry a Venetian style that is unique to the city, making for an eclectic cityscape.

A gondola trip, a stroll around St Mark’s Square, a walk over the Ponte Rialto and a visit to the Doge’s Palace are customary for those seeing the city for the first time, though for many the real attraction is getting lost in the sea of mazy alleys and historic bridges .

Many cruises start and end in Venice too, though due to its location at the top of the Adriatic, it can take a while to cruise down to other popular destinations like Bari, Sicily and the Amalfi Coast. If you’re visiting on a cruise, chances are it’ll be a longer one, or that it’ll stop in destinations in northern Croatia , Dubrovnik or northern Greece .

Azmara Cruises’ ‘ Italy Intensive Voyage ’ takes passengers all the way from Rome to Venice. It begins by going north to Florence , then turning back on itself and going south to the Amalfi Coast and Sicily. After a brief stop in Kotor, Montenegro , you’ll finish in Venice, with the opportunity to explore at your leisure before flying home.

Prices from £2,060pp including 10 nights’ accommodation, all meals and drinks, evening entertainment and select onshore excursions. Departing 10 April 2024.

Read more on the best hotels in Venice

Sicily is another of Italy’s famous islands, sharing a part of the Mediterranean with neighbouring Sardinia. It is equally as charming as Sardinia, and filled with similarly beguiling towns, a variety of natural landscapes and some of the finest culture and history that the country has to offer.

Tradition is paramount here, something that is reflected in a proud local populace. It is also visible in towns and cities like Palermo, and the timeless beauty of Syracuse, as well as on the olive groves and vineyards that dot the slopes of Mount Etna. It makes Sicily a great place to come if you want to see modern-day Italian living with a dose of outdoor adventure, in places like the Parco dell’Etna, along with historic charm (such as that at Syracuse).

Windstar Cruises’ ‘ Sicilian Spendours ’ cruise begins and ends in the Italian capital, but as the name suggests, this trip very much focuses on the largest island in the Mediterranean. It begins by heading to the Amalfi Coast, but then moves on to three Sicilian towns – Trapani, Porto Empedocle and Catania, via Gozo and Malta .

Prices from £3,105pp including 10 nights’ accommodation, meals and onboard entertainment. Departing 28 May 2024.

Read more on the best hotels in Sicily

Sardinia, which sits off the eastern coast around six hours from Civitavecchia by ferry, is one of Italy’s most popular summer destinations. A favourite among both tourists and Italians, it is home to a slew of great beaches – including Cala Goloritzé and the Costa Smerelda – and so is a good choice for days spent flitting between water sports and lying in the sun.

Though it’s understandable if you want to spend most of your time here on the sands, it would be remiss not to visit some of the pastel-hued towns and verdant national parks that lie inland and on the coast. Places like Alghero, Bosa and San Teodoro contain plenty of history throughout their cobbled streets, while Asinara and Gennargentu are two of the most picturesque natural areas.

Sardinia’s southerly location means that cruises that stop here often carry on to Sicily and Malta, and may go further on to the Balearics, Greek islands or even Tunisia .

The ‘ Enchanting Italian Coastlines ’ tour from Emerald Cruises covers both Sardinia and the eastern coast over a period of seven nights. It begins in the capital, moving first to Sorrento and Amalfi and then crossing the Mediterranean to Sardinia and Corsica before looping back.

Prices from £3,379pp including seven nights’ accommodation, all meals and drinks and airport transfers. Departing 27 April 2024.

Cinque Terre

The Cinque Terre competes with the Amalfi Coast for the title of Italy’s most famous coastal area, but the Italian Riviera offers a different kind of beauty in its emerald waters and pastel-coloured towns. The region is part of Liguria, and consists of five villages: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. 

Each one has an abundance of old Italian charm, from the faded colours that come alive at sunset to the mazes of alleys leading up from tiny harbours. Only Monterosso has a proper beach, but this village quintet isn’t the place for solely a beach holiday, despite the coastlines. Instead, wander aimlessly through the villages, enjoy a laid-back meal or take to any of the surrounding hiking paths.

These once isolated villages are now tourist hotspots in their own right, with the Cinque Terre Express one of the best ways to get between them. Most cruises dock at La Spezia, the province’s main city, which lies just 20 minutes from the nearest Cinque Terre village, Riomaggiore.

The Cinque Terre is a less frequented destination on longer cruises, so the best bet is to visit as part of a multi-country cruise. Celebrity Cruises offers one such option with their ‘ Italian Riviera & France ’ package, which departs from Rome and initially heads south to Naples before circling around to La Spezia and Santa Margherita. After some time spent enjoying the Italian Riviera, you move on to the French one, seeing Cannes and Marseille before finishing in Barcelona.

Prices from £1,209pp including nine nights’ accommodation, return flights, all meals, daily activities and entertainment. Departing 4 June 2024.

Naples is a fascinating city, buoyed by a vibrant and chaotic energy and blessed with beautiful surroundings – including Mount Vesuvius and an azure bay – and an eclectic blend of architecture.

The city itself has a wealth of culture and history, from the recent and immaterial – such as its devotion to pizza or its football club – to the ancient and pertinent, including the Duomo cathedral and a large collection of Greco-Roman artefacts at the National Archaeological Museum. Be sure to talk a walk around the Spanish Quarter, Centro Storico and Spaccanapoli (the city’s main thoroughfare) to get a real sense of how life is lived in this hectic city.

Naples is the closest major city to the Amalfi Coast, and as such many trips here are combined with a visit to towns like Sorrento or Positano.

You’re spoilt for choice when including Naples in a cruise itinerary, and many cruises that stop here also include visits to parts of Greece and Croatia. A seven-day Mediterranean cruise from Norwegian Cruise Line takes advantage of these stops, taking guests from Rome to Venice via Valletta, Split and Corfu. Nevertheless, the focus is still on Italy, taking in the historic capital, the romantic canals of Venice and all of Naples’ characterful chaos (with an added stop in Messina, Sicily).

Prices from £1,573pp including seven nights’ accommodation, all meals and drinks and onboard entertainment. Departing 14 August 2024.

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Oceania Debuts New Mediterranean Sailings for 2025

• April 27, 2024

Oceania Cruises announced new 2025 Mediterranean itineraries, ranging from nine to 56 days, according to a company statement. 

The line’s Marina and Nautica will set sail in the Mediterranean, Aegean and Adriatic.

The 16 new voyages feature destinations including Athens, Barcelona, Istanbul, Rome and Lisbon, allowing guests to explore resort towns such as Monte Carlo, Cannes, Positano and Sorrento.

“Oceania Cruises is rightly renowned for its inventive and captivating itineraries, and our array of 2025 Mediterranean sailings is the perfect way to spotlight one of the most popular and exciting cruise regions of the world,” said Frank A. Del Rio, president of Oceania Cruises. “With shore excursions to inspire everyone, from active adventurous types to history buffs to foodies, our small, luxurious ships are the perfect way to discover this majestic region of the world.”

New 2025 Mediterranean Itineraries include:

• Barcelona to Athens, May 26, 2025, nine days: Barcelona, Valletta, Rhodes, Ephesus (Kusadasi), overnight in Istanbul, Mitilini (Lesbos), Athens 
• Istanbul to Athens, October 16, 2025, 11 days: One overnight stay in Istanbul, Pergamum (Dikili), Bodrum, Ephesus (Kusadasi), Santorini, Rhodes, Limassol, Marmaris, Heraklion (Crete), Mykonos, Athens.
• Athens to Barcelona, October 27, 2025, 11 days: Athens, Split, Kotor, Corfu, Katakolon, Messina (Sicily), Valletta, Tunis, Palma de Mallorca, Barcelona.
• Athens to Santa Cruz de Tenerife, October 27, 2025, 21 days: Athens, Split, Kotor, Corfu, Katakolon, Messina (Sicily), Valletta, Tunis, Palma de Mallorca, Barcelona, Malaga, Seville (Cadiz), Casablanca, Agadir, Arrecife (Lanzarote), Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Funchal (Madeira), Santa Cruz de la Palma, Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
• Istanbul to Athens, July 27, 2025, 12 days: Istanbul, Pergamum (Dikili), Izmir, Samos, Bodrum, Rhodes, Antalya, Alanya, Limassol, Kos, Heraklion, Santorini, Athens.
• Rome roundtrip Grand Voyage, July 7, 2025, 46 days 
• Venice to Rome Grand Voyage, July 17, 2025, 36 days.

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