Day 1 | Friday

ATHENS, MARINA ZEAS (PIRAEUS) - CORINTH CANAL – KEFALONIA
Your journey kicks off at Marina Zea in Athens, boarding the M/Y Harmony G. between 2-3 pm. Set the tone with a warm welcome, refreshing drink, and a sumptuous Welcome Dinner. As the ship gracefully sails through the Corinth Canal towards Kefalonia, embrace the anticipation of the adventure ahead. Overnight at sea.

Day 2 | Saturday

SAMI - KEFALONIA
Wake up to the tranquility of a beautiful beach on Kefalonia's coast. Enjoy a morning swim, followed by a lunch onboard. Explore Sami, the backdrop for "Captain Corelli’s Mandolin," or opt for an excursion to Mellisani Cave, Karavomilos Lake, or the Drogarati cave. Choose your dinner experience. Early morning, sail to Antipaxos.

Day 3 | Sunday

ANTIPAXOS - PAXOS ISLANDS
Discover the natural beauty of Paxos. Swim at Antipaxos' stunning beach and indulge in an onboard BBQ. Sail to Gaios, the main town of Paxoi, for a charming evening exploring local cuisine and nightlife. After midnight, set sail for Corfu.

Day 4 | Monday

CORFU ISLAND
Explore Corfu's Old Town, a tapestry of narrow streets reflecting its rich history. Enjoy a full day at your leisure or join our optional morning excursion. Greek Night celebration on board. After midnight, sail to Meganisi and Ithaca.

Day 5 | Tuesday

ITHACA - VATHI
Wake up to the tranquility of Meganisi for a refreshing swim or a leisurely breakfast. After a Greek BBQ lunch, sail to Vathi, Ithaca's capital. Stroll along the waterfront and choose a taverna for dinner. Overnight in Vathi.

Day 6 | Wednesday

ITHACA - MESSOLONGHI
Early departure to Messolonghi with a swim stop en route. After lunch, explore Messolonghi's lagoon and charming old town. Enjoy dinner in a local taverna. Late evening, sail to the Corinth Canal.

Day 7 | Thursday

CORINTH CANAL – ANGISTRI - AEGINA
Pass through the Corinth Canal in the morning. Reach Agistri for a final swim. Lunch onboard, then explore Aegina or join an optional excursion. Captain's Farewell Dinner before heading back to Marina Zeas.

Day 8 | Friday

ATHENS - MARINA ZEAS (PIRAEUS)
Your final day begins with breakfast and Disembarkation at 8:30 am. Disembarkation is not goodbye but a "see you later." Cherish newfound friendships as you bid farewell, hoping for a reunion on future cruises. Until then, safe travels and may the seas call you back soon.

Day 1 | Friday

ATHENS, MARINA ZEAS (PIRAEUS) - KEA
Join us - and your fellow explorers - at Marina Zea in Athens for a welcome drink. Today we start our adventure. First stop: Cape Sounion to visit the Temple of Poseidon. Next up, the short sail across to Kea for dinner and exploration before we set sail again, this time to Delos. Overnight at sea.

Day 2 | Saturday

DELOS - MYKONOS
A day of contrasts: wake up in sacred Delos, the mythological birthplace of revered ancient Greek God, Apollo. The entire island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, one that we are proud to have pioneered the road to tourism to. Then onto cosmopolitan Mykonos - stopping en route for your first chance to dive from boat to sea. In Mykonos, the afternoon, evening and night are yours. Overnight in Mykonos: join us back on board after a night of partying with the jetset.

Day 3 | Sunday

SANTORINI
Relax with coffee and breakfast on deck this morning as we sail from Mykonos to Santorini. We know you’ll fall in love with this picturesque, volcanic island. Yes, the famous blue-domes overlooking the caldera are here, but so are archaeological sites, traditional villages, and more. Let us show you Santorini’s secrets on an optional tour.. Overnight sail to Crete.

Day 4 | Monday

RETHYMNON, CRETE
The day is yours in Crete. We’ll arrive early and leave late - how you spend the time in between is up to you. Perhaps you’ll take a wine tour, an archaeological excursion, learn about Cretean mythology? Tell us what you want to see and do and we’ll make it happen. Overnight at sea.

Day 5 | Tuesday

KYTHIRA
Ready. Steady. Jump! This morning is another chance to dive into those famous Aegean waters as we drop anchor on our way to Kythira. This lesser-known island is quickly gaining popularity; now is your chance for laid-back exploration. Ask our crew for restaurant recommendations in the main town of Chora. Overnight in Kythira.

Day 6 | Wednesday

MONEMVASIA - NAFPLION
We’ll depart early for the medieval, fortified town of Monemvasia. The stories here are endless, and come to life via the uniquely preserved Byzantine and Venetian architecture. In the early afternoon we’ll depart for Nafplion, with a swim stop on the way. Here, explore the narrow streets of the old quarter at leisure. Overnight in Nafplion.

Day 7 | Thursday

NAFPLION - HYDRA - MARINA ZEA- ATHENS
A short drive inland from Nafplion is Mycenae: a cradle of Greek civilization and home to the mythological kingdom of Agamemnon. Join us for an optional tour of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Come afternoon, we set sail for small yet historical Hydra; an island that enchanted the likes of Chagall and Picasso. End the day with our signature Captain’s Farewell Dinner as we sail back to Marina Zea.

Day 8 | Friday

ATHENS - MARINA ZEAS (PIRAEUS)
Breakfast on board before disembarkation. Though this adventure has come to an end, we hope to sea you on another soon!

Day 1 | Saturday

GRUZ PORT, DUBROVNIK
Your adventure begins at the picturesque Dubrovnik Cruise Port in Gruz, where you'll board the elegant M/Y Callisto. As you step on board, immerse yourself in a world of ambience and hospitality with a gracious welcome, a refreshing drink, and a delectable Welcome Dinner that sets the perfect tone for your journey ahead. As twilight descends, we'll bid farewell to Dubrovnik and set sail for the enchanting island of Korcula.

Day 2 | Sunday

KORCULA
Today, we arrive at Korcula, a natural wonderland boasting a captivating wine culture, a picturesque old city, secluded beaches, and endless olive groves. Explore the charming lanes of Korčula's historic old town, marvel at the bell tower, and visit St. Mark's Cathedral. Lose yourself in its labyrinth of streets steeped in history. Enjoy Korcula at your own pace or join our optional tour to discover its wine heritage at Bire winery, where you'll taste the unique Grk wine with roots dating back to the 5th century AD. In the evening, savor a Signature Cocktail Demonstration Experience before our onboard dinner.

Day 3 | Monday

VIS, CROATIA
In the morning, we arrive at Vis Island, a unique gem in Croatia's archipelago where time seems to slow down. Enjoy a swim in the alluring azure waters, followed by an onboard BBQ lunch with ouzo! Luxuriate in the tranquility or join our optional walking tour to explore the island's rich history, including its military base, museums, and hidden Yugoslavian tunnels. In the evening, gather with fellow travelers for an onboard dinner.

Day 4 | Tuesday

BAR, MONTENEGRO
Today, we explore Bar, Montenegro's bustling commercial center, blending modernity with remnants of socialist architecture evident in its urban landscape and diverse churches. After lunch onboard, join our optional tour to discover the origins of Montenegro's renowned olive oil amidst lush olive groves at the mountain foothills. Witness ancient olive oil production techniques, including a visit to one of the oldest fruit-bearing olive trees. Uncover the hidden gem of "Stari Bar," the abandoned old town steeped in centuries of history, with its haunting ruins and ancient gates. Enjoy dinner onboard as we bid farewell to Montenegro and sail towards Albania.

Day 5 | Wednesday

VLORAS, ALBANIA
Enjoy a morning swim break at tranquil Orikum Bay, soaking up the sun's warmth while awaiting clearance to enter Vloras port, nestled in southern Albania. Renowned for its rich culture and vibrant folklore, Vloras promises enchantment and discovery. After a delicious lunch onboard, join our optional tour to explore Vloras' storied past. Wander through the newly renovated old town, filled with charming cafes and eateries, and stroll along historic cobblestone streets as knowledgeable guides share tales of bygone eras. Savor our signature wine tasting before an onboard dinner. After an evening of culinary exploration, bid farewell to Vloras as we head to our next destination, Durres.

Day 6 | Thursday

DURRES, ALBANIA
Upon morning arrival, consider joining our optional tour to Tirana, Albania's vibrant capital. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you'll witness the city's remarkable transformations since the era of Enver Hoxha, reflecting a significant shift towards openness and global engagement after years of isolation. Despite its modest size, Tirana boasts a wealth of cultural treasures awaiting discovery. Explore its museums, monuments, and historic landmarks, including the iconic Skanderbeg Square, named after the national hero pivotal in Albania's independence struggle from the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century. After dinner onboard, we'll set sail for our next destination: the enchanting shores of Kotor, Montenegro.

Day 7 | Friday

KOTOR, MONTENEGRO
In the morning, we embark on a scenic journey through the magnificent "Fjord" of Boka Kotorska, nestled within the Balkan Peninsula. Take in the breathtaking vistas of towering mountains and charming villages along the shoreline, creating an awe-inspiring panorama. Enjoy lunch onboard. Kotor itself is a marvel of history and architecture, centered around its iconic Stari Grad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the afternoon, consider joining our optional tour exploring the highlights of the Kotor area, including the majestic Lovćen Mountain massif. Indulge in local flavors with samples of Njeguški pršut paired with a refreshing local beer or homemade liqueur. As the sun sets, delight in our Captain's Dinner onboard as we sail towards our next destination, Dubrovnik.

Day 8 | Saturday

DUBROVNIK
This morning finds us at Dubrovnik and disembarkation is set for 9 am after breakfast. Our cruise manager will assist with any prearranged transfers you've organized. We look forward to welcoming you back aboard one of our VARIETY CRUISES around the world soon!

Day 1 | Friday

ATHENS, MARINA ZEAS (PIRAEUS) - CAPE SOUNION
Athens (2pm - 3pm) - Cape Sounion All aboard! Our exploration begins as we head from Athens to Cape Sounion. As the sun sets on our first day of adventure, enjoy an al fresco, get-to-know-each-other dinner under the ancient Greek Temple of Poseidon, Cape Sounion. As night falls, we start our sail to Ikaria. Overnight at sea.

Day 2 | Saturday

IKARIA
Wake up in paradise: aka Seychelles Beach, Ikaria. Surrounded by craggy rocks, the beach is best accessed by boat (luckily you’ve chosen to cruise with Variety!) Enjoy your first of many swim stops before we sail onwards to Ikaria’s quaint port. Hike the wildlife, take a dip in thermal spas, join a family cooking class, or visit an ancient village. You’ll soon realise this is an island like no other. Fun fact: locals here live an average of 10 years longer than elsewhere in Greece. Overnight in Ikaria.

Day 3 | Sunday

PATMOS - LIPSI
Today we’ll voyage from Ikaria to Patmos to Lipsi. Patmos is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites and is often considered divine. As we sail onwards to Lipsi, enjoy lunch al fresco before diving into the glittering sea. We also invite you to join our on board tasting of Lipsi’s famous wine, Aposperiti. This elusive bottle is produced only on the island. You can thank your lucky grapes - and us! - later. Evening at leisure, overnight in Lipsi.

Day 4 | Monday

KALYMNOS
Early morning sail to Kalymnos, but not without a swim stop on our way. Simple, authentic and packed to the shores with hiking routes, Kalymnos is a utopia for modern adventurers. It’s also home to the famous Greek sponge divers. Join us to meet the locals who harvest them, and learn all about the process from reef to market. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure; relax with a coffee, hike one of the famous island trails or - and we recommend this one - visit the stunning Esperidon fjord. Overnight in Kalymnos.

Day 5 | Tuesday

LEVITHA - AMORGOS
From the Dodacanese to the Cyclades. Destination Amorgos, with a stop at Levitha island. The grand total of people living on Levitha is four. Yes, you read that right. The dedicated family raise animals and run a restaurant for visiting yachts - dine on their freshly-grilled fish. Trust us, you won’t regret it. In the afternoon, we sail onwards to Amorgo where Luc Besson’s movie, Big Blue, was shot. The island will transport you to the past with its authentic, laid-back villages. Evening at leisure in the mediaeval capital, overnight in Amorgos.

Day 6 | Wednesday

AMORGOS - KOUFONISSIA - IRAKLIA
Before we set sail today, we’ll stop at Panagia Chozoviotissa - a monastery carved into the dramatic sea-facing cliffs and bursting with significant ancient heirlooms. Then on to Koufonisia, a playground for water-lovers packed with caves and rock pools accessible only by boat. Jump off deck and snorkel, kayak or paddle board to explore them. Our afternoon cruise passes scenic Schinoussa to reach the tiny island of Iraklia, protected by Natura 2000 and offering incredible mountainous footpaths. Take a walk along them for awe-inspiring views. Enjoy laid-back Greek island life at leisure this evening. Overnight in port.

Day 7 | Thursday

SERIFOS
It’s the penultimate day, but it’s one to remember. We’ll sail to Serifos and start with a swim at a remote beach. Refuel with a barbecue on board then on to Chora, the island’s castle-village. Sit back at a cafe, indulge in souvenir shopping at the boutique stores, join us at a winery, or show off your creative side at the island’s pottery studio. We’ll enjoy a special dinner this evening: a chance to remember and reminisce about the hidden gems of Greece. Midnight sail back to Athens.

Day 8 | Friday

ATHENS - MARINA ZEAS (PIRAEUS)
Athens, Greece (8.30-9am) Breakfast, disembarkation, and a chance to swap contact details with your fellow explorers, who we’re sure have become friends. With new islands explored, where to next? Find all our cruise itineraries here, and we hope to sea you on board again soon!

Day 1

VALLETTA, MALTA
Valletta, Malta (3pm):
Enjoy a welcome drink on board, and a chance to settle in as well as meet your crew and fellow passengers. Overnight in port before we set sail on our adventure the following morning.

Day 2

VALLETTA - GOZO ISLAND, MALTA
Morning sail to Gozo Island, stopping for our first swim stop on the way.. We’ll arrive after lunch, ready for an afternoon of exploration. Join us on our optional excursion to sightsee the Citadel and its beautiful Baroque Cathedral, or tell us what you want to sightsee and we’ll be happy to arrange it. Come afternoon, celebrate the fruits of the local vineyard’s labour with a wine tasting session, then back to the ship for departure to Sicily. Overnight at sea.

Day 3

SYRACUSE, ITALY
Syracuse, on the Sicilian Ionian Coast, is rich in Greek and Roman history. Indeed it’s one of the most prestigious cities of the Hellenic Word, and was once a rival to Athens! Today’s optional excursion explores this heritage: we’ll visit a spectacular 15,000-seat Greek theatre, a Roman amphitheatre, the Temple of Apollo, the Fountain of Arethusa, and more. In the afternoon, visit the UNESCO protected town of Noto, known for its Baroque architecture. Reboard the ship in time for our evening sail to the Aeolian Islands. Overnight at sea.

Day 4

LIPARI, ITALY
Morning arrival in Lipari, the largest of the Aeolian islands and scattered with important archeological sites; ruins and remains here date back to 1700 BC and include Neolithic stones, ancient tombstones, Greek walls, and Roman villas. Join our optional morning tour to learn about them, as well as the 16th Century Spanish castle and 12th Century harbour Cathedral. Afternoon at leisure. Overnight in Lipari.

Day 5

VULCANO ISLAND - PANAREA - STROMBOLI, ITALY
From Lipari to Catania stopping at the striking Vulcano Island. No points for guessing this is home to a majestic volcano, but we will give you some credit if you know that it’s famous for its therapeutic mud baths. Optional walking tour towards the volcano crater. Afternoon sail to Panarea, a quaint Aeolian Island. Enjoy time the in port before we up anchor for Catania, sailing past Stromboli, an active volcano. The sight of live lava eruptions is something you’ll never forget. Overnight at sea.

Day 6

CATANIA (FOR MT. ETNA), ITALY
Breakfast followed by a volcano. We bet there aren’t many days in life where you can say that - but today is one of them. Our optional morning tour is to Mount Etna, with a resident volcanologist to talk you through the volcanic activity across Italy’s south. Wander nearby Catania in the afternoon to get a feel for the laid back lifestyle of the historical Italian city influenced by Romans, Arabs, and Normans.

Day 7

CATANIA (FOR TAORMINA), ITALY
Today starts with an optional tour of hill-top town, Taormina - where mediaeval streets meet secluded gardens. Stroll the vibrant main street - Corso Umberto - lined with cafés, restaurants and shops. Explore the nearby 14th Century Palazzo Duchi Di Santo Stefano, once home to Spanish aristocrats. Or tour the nearby ancient Greek Theatre (side note: it’s worth it for the sea views alone). In the evening we’ll gather on board for our signature Captain’s Farewell Dinner, before sailing back to Malta. Overnight at sea.

Day 8

VALLETTA, MALTA
Breakfast in Valletta Port, then time to say goodbye. For now. We hope to see you on another one of our cruises soon!

Day 1

VALLETTA, MALTA
Valletta, Malta (3pm):
Embarkation at Valetta's charming port begins at 14:00. Our dedicated Variety Cruises crew conducts an essential safety drill before we set sail. Join us for a delightful welcome cocktail and dinner as we prepare to depart for our next destination, Port Empedocle, around 9 pm. This enchanting start to your cruise adventure promises unforgettable moments against the backdrop of the sparkling Mediterranean sea!

Day 2

PORT EMPEDOCLE
Awake in the serene embrace of Port Empedocle, a coastal gem on Sicily's southern shore, where tranquility meets storied maritime legacy. Opt for our exclusive tour to Agrigento, home to the UNESCO-listed Temple Valley, where ancient Greek ruins whisper tales of antiquity. Traverse this archaeological wonderland before visiting the famed "Turkish Stairway," a spectacle of white cliffs by the sea. With the afternoon yours to explore or unwind, join our Cocktail Demonstration before tonight's onboard dinner. Led by our skilled Bar Manager, uncover the secrets behind crafting signature cocktails to impress loved ones back home. Bid farewell to Port Empedocle as dusk descends, setting course for our next stop: the charming town of Trapani. Departure is around 10 pm, promising another night of adventure on the shimmering Mediterranean waters!

Day 3

TRAPANI
At 7 am, our vessel docks at Trapani, an idyllic coastal enclave steeped in maritime history. Explore the charming old town and lively harbor, filled with the legacy of its seafaring past. Navigate cobblestone streets adorned with pastel facades, discovering hidden gems like quaint piazzas and ornate churches. Alternatively, join our optional tour to the medieval town of Erice, offering panoramic views and iconic landmarks like the Castle of Venus. Enjoy leisurely moments at the port, relishing lunch at your own pace. As evening approaches, savor a sumptuous dinner onboard!

Day 4

TRAPANI - PALERMO
The morning in Trapani is yours to enjoy at leisure. At approximately 1:30 pm, our boat departs for our next destination, the vibrant capital of Sicily, Palermo. Spend the afternoon as you please before joining our Wine Tasting Experience, featuring a selection of Italian and Greek wines, to prepare your palate for our 4-course dinner on board. We'll arrive in Palermo around 8 pm, giving you the chance to continue your evening with an aperitivo at a trendy bar, sipping on a refreshing Aperol spritz or sampling local wines paired with savory snacks!

Day 5

PALERMO
Palermo blends ancient legacies and modern vitality, inviting exploration with its rich cultural heritage and dynamic atmosphere. From Phoenician to Norman, the city's streets resonate with centuries-old influences, creating a vibrant urban mosaic. Explore the historic center, where narrow alleys reveal Baroque wonders and lively markets. Deepen your Palermo experience with our optional tours: uncover the city's underworld lore tracing The Godfather's origins, or indulge in a Sicilian food tour sampling local delicacies like cannoli and arancini. After dinner onboard, we set sail for our next destination: the enchanting island of Lipari!

Day 6

LIPARI
Today, we awaken to the tranquil shores of Lipari, the crown jewel of the Aeolian Islands, steeped in myth and natural beauty. Explore the island's charm with our optional half-day tour, starting with panoramic vistas at Quattrocchi and a visit to Quattropani for captivating views of Salina. Discover a Spanish-built castle-turned-cathedral and museum showcasing artifacts from prehistoric to ancient Greek & Roman times. After the tour, enjoy leisure time in the village for a personalized lunch experience. Tonight, savor a culinary journey inspired by Sicilian and Italian flavors, accompanied by captivating music. We bid farewell to Lipari at 6:30 pm as we sail towards the enchanting shores of Sorrento, promising another unforgettable chapter in our maritime adventure.

Day 7

SORRENTO
As morning arrives, we enter the enchanting embrace of Sorrento, a gem along the Amalfi Coast celebrated for its Mediterranean charm. Perched atop cliffs overlooking the Bay of Naples, Sorrento offers breathtaking vistas and timeless allure. Explore its winding streets, adorned with vibrant bougainvillea-draped buildings, inviting exploration at every turn. Join our morning optional tour to Pompeii, a poignant journey into the Roman Empire's past frozen in time by Mount Vesuvius' eruption in 79 AD. Afterwards, the port awaits for leisurely exploration. Indulge in Sorrento's delights, from sipping limoncello to savoring fresh seafood by the marina. As night falls, enjoy a delightful onboard dinner. For those seeking evening enchantment, wander Sorrento's streets for a cocktail or sumptuous gelato, a perfect finale to your day in this captivating coastal haven.

Day 8

NAPLES
Upon arrival in Naples at dawn, enjoy a leisurely breakfast with fellow travelers. Our Cruise Manager will assist with your pre-arranged transfers, ensuring a seamless transition to your next adventure. We look forward to welcoming you aboard another unforgettable journey with VARIETY CRUISES, wherever your next destination may be!

Day 1

NAPLES, ITALY
Embarkation 2-4pm. Overnight at sea.

Day 2

CAPRI, ITALY
This morning, after a sumptuous breakfast on board, drop anchor at Capri. Located in the Tyrrhenian Sea directly south of Naples, Capri has been a popular resort destination since the time of the Romans. With its impressive scenery, clear skies, and perfect climate, it has earned its reputation as the “jewel” of the Bay of Naples. Here starts our optional half day Capri excursion; we take the island’s iconic funicular from Marina Grande to the village of Capri and then we set off on a guided walk to the Gardens of Augustus, which offer sweeping views of the sea and the stacked rock formations off the coast and visit also the iconic, bustling Piazzetta which, being the centre of Capri, is the focal point of life on the island. We will have some free time to explore the area before returning via the funicular to the port. Lunch is served on board the ship, with the rest of the afternoon is yours to relax before dinner. Overnight at sea to Amalfi.

Day 3

AMALFI OR SORRENTO, ITALY
After breakfast on board, we will spend the morning on the breathtaking Amalfi or Sorrento coast, with its cliff-top villas, azure coastline and luxury boutiques. Optional half day excursion. In the late evening, take in the view as we cruise past Stromboli, an active volcano off the northern coast of Sicily. Overnight at sea to the Aeolian Islands.

Day 4

LIPARI, ITALY
Morning arrival in Lipari, the largest of the Aeolian islands and scattered with important archeological sites; ruins and remains here date back to 1700 BC and include Neolithic stones, ancient tombstones, Greek walls, and Roman villas. Join our optional morning tour to learn about them, as well as the 16th Century Spanish castle and 12th Century harbour Cathedral. Afternoon at leisure. Overnight in Lipari.

Day 5

TAORMINA - GIARDINI NAXOS, ITALY
After breakfast, the ship heads to Taormina and the charming seaside village of Giardini Naxos. The area, having been settled for even before the Greeks founded Naxos in 743 BC, is a popular destination for sun, sand, and sea. On our optional Taormina tour we will discover the village’s narrow alleyways, along with the fifteenth-century Palazzo Corvaja and the impressive Greek amphitheatre, which boasts extraordinary acoustics, before we take a stroll along the Corso Umberto, a pedestrian street which crosses Taormina’s centre. Flanked on both sides by upscale boutiques selling clothes, jewellery and souvenirs, we will understand why Taormina is called the “Sicilian Saint Tropez.” In the afternoon, enjoy the view as the ship cruises towards Catania. Overnight in port.

Day 6

CATANIA (FOR MT. ETNA), ITALY
Following breakfast, we set off in a private coach on a full-day excursion to Mount Etna, Italy’s largest active volcano, and Catania. Pass through Nicolosi, a small Sicilian village that has existed in the shadow of the volcano for centuries. A new road offers scenic views as it winds up the mountain’s slopes. Constructed after an eruption in 1983, it passes through vineyards, woods, and valleys of black lava. At approximately 2000 metres above sea level, the Rifugio Sapienza is the highest point of the mountain accessible by vehicle. We will take a short walk to the Crateri Silvestri, two sizable craters formed during a significant eruption in 1892, to admire 360-degree views of the Gulf of Catania. Lunch is served in a local restaurant overlooking the lava stream. Afterwards, continue to Catania. This city has long been dominated by Mount Etna’s presence. We join our guide for a stroll through the city centre, including the Cathedral of Saint Agatha, the picturesque Piazza del Duomo, and the Fontana dell’Elefante, which features a Roman-era elephant statue carved from Mount Etna’s basalt. The walk continues along Via Crociferi which is lined by imposing churches emblematic of Catania’s Baroque architectural style, then stop at Piazza Stesicoro, one of the main squares in Catania, to admire the monument to Vincenzo Bellini, famed Romantic composer who was born here. The walk will continue back to the port. If you wish, you can continue exploring the town on your own. This afternoon, the ship sails towards Syracuse. Overnight at sea.

Day 7

SYRACUSE, ITALY
After breakfast on the ship, we can have a half-day tour to Syracuse, with its rich Greek and Roman history. The tour begins with a short drive to the Neapolis Archaeological Park, an open-air museum of Sicilian ruins. The spectacular Teatro Greco (“Greek Theatre”) is among the most impressive amphitheaters to survive from antiquity. We will also visit the enigmatic Latomia del Paradiso, a limestone quarry which supplied stone for this ancient city. The Orecchio di Dionisio (“Ear of Dionysus”) is a 23 metre-high man-made cave known for its near-perfect acoustics, and the altar of Hieron II served as a site for animal sacrifices. After exploring the park, we drive to Ortygia, an island which is home to the remains of some of the city’s earliest constructions. Here, we will discover the Temple of Apollo, the Fountain of Arethusa and a Baroque cathedral built over the remains of the famed Temple of Athena. After the tour, we return to the ship or enjoy some free time in the town. The rest of the afternoon is at your leisure. Departure late afternoon to Malta. Overnight at sea to Malta.

Day 8

VALLETTA, MALTA
Breakfast in Valletta Port, then time to say goodbye. For now. We hope to see you on another one of our cruises soon!