Day 1 | Saturday

DAKAR, SENEGAL
Meet us on board between 3PM and 4PM. Spend some time getting to know your home at sea and fellow voyagers, then join us for a welcome dinner before we set sail southwards, towards the Saloum River Delta. Overnight at sea.

Day 2 | Sunday

DJIFFER, SENEGAL – BANJUL, THE GAMBIA
Dolphins, crocodiles, turtles and manatees. Keep your eyes peeled for all of these and more as we venture into the Sine-Saloum Delta, Senegal. A UNESCO biosphere reserve, this important birding area is home to around 200 different bird species including flamingos, pelicans and raptors. From here, join our optional excursion to JOAL FADIOUTH, an island built on and of clam shells. Come afternoon, we begin our sail to Banjul, The Gambia. Overnight in Banjul.

Day 3 | Monday

BANJUL - BAKAU, THE GAMBIA
Banjul is The Gambia’s capital city and gateway to the 700 mile Gambia River. We’ll sail the river this afternoon, but first join our optional half day tour of Banjul itself, plus the town of Bakau; known for its kachikally crocodile pool and botanic garden. Mid-afternoon we sail upstream on the Gambia River to Tendaba. Overnight docked in Tendaba.

Day 4 | Tuesday

TENDABA, THE GAMBIA
Today, we offer two optional excursions. Both begin in Tendaba, a small Muslim fishing village with a population of around 600 people. It’s reachable from our ship by motor pirogue - small canoe-like boats. In the morning we’ll walk from Tendaba to Batelling to visit the Kiang West National Park - home to many rare species of bird as well as Guinea baboons, Senegal bushbaby and marsh Mongoose. When you’re all primate-d out, we’ll jump in a safari truck heading back to the ship, via Tendaba, and passing local villages as we go. In the afternoon the excursion is to Bao Bolong Wetland Reserve - with six major bolongs (creeks) and remarkable birding and boating opportunities. Overnight docked in Tendaba.

Day 5 | Wednesday

GAMBIA RIVER – KUNTAUR - RIVER GAMBIA NATIONAL PARK, THE GAMBIA
Early morning we continue our journey upstream on the Gambia River, heading to the bustling port town, Kuntaur. This is the last inland stop navigable for ocean-going ships. Yes, even our small ship. The optional excursion this afternoon is a motor pirogue journey further inland to Baboon Island, a part of The Gambia National Park. Listen and learn as a local park ranger teaches us all about the park's flora and fauna. Then, as we drift slowly and peacefully back towards Kuntaur, keep a look out for the chimpanzees at a rehabilitation project en route. You may also spot hippos, crocodiles, Red Colobus monkeys, and more. An exceptional dance, the Kankurang, is performed on our return to Kuntaur. The Kankurang is believed to dispense justice and ward off evil spirits. Overnight docked in Kuntaur.

Day 6 | Thursday

KUNTAUR – JANJANBUREH - KAUR, THE GAMBIA
We hope you’ve slept well as we have a varied and active optional tour today. First to Janjanbureh via bus and local ferry. Janjanbureh is one of the oldest towns in The Gambia, formerly known as Georgetown. Wander the streets and take in the laid back vibes before we head back to the bus and on to our second destination: Lamin Koto. Here, you’ll see a new school in the process of being built, thanks to generous donations from Variety Cruises and our clients. From here we’ll visit the mysterious stones of Wassu, a sacred burial ground thousands of years old, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After lunch we sail downstream to the small fishing village, Kaur. Explore and see how local Gambians live here today. Lastly, join us in the evening for our signature Captain’s Farewell Dinner as we sail downstream, back towards Banjul.

Day 7 | Friday

KUNTA KINTEH ISLAND - BANJUL, THE GAMBIA
One more day in The Gambia, with lots more to learn and discover. This morning we anchor at Kunta Kinteh Island. Strategically located in the middle of the Gambia River, the island has a dark history in the slave trade, the story of which has been told to the world via author Alex Haley’s book, Roots. A local guide will teach us about the history, after which you’ll have some time to walk around before we head back to Banjul. Tonight we host Gambian Night on board, complete with a concert performed on the kora, a west African string instrument. Overnight at sea, heading towards Dakar.

Day 8 | Saturday

DAKAR, SENEGAL
Early morning arrival in Dakar. Join your fellow adventures - who we’re sure are now friends - for one last breakfast before our trip comes to an end.

Day 1 | Monday

BANJUL - BAKAU, THE GAMBIA
Meet us on board at 4PM. Banjul is The Gambia’s capital city and gateway to the 700 mile Gambia River. We’ll sail the river this afternoon, but first join our optional half day tour of Banjul itself, plus the town of Bakau; known for its kachikally crocodile pool and botanic garden. Mid-afternoon we sail upstream on the Gambia River to Tendaba. Overnight docked in Tendaba.

Day 2 | Tuesday

TENDABA, THE GAMBIA
Today, we offer two optional excursions. Both begin in Tendaba, a small Muslim fishing village with a population of around 600 people. It’s reachable from our ship by motor pirogue - small canoe-like boats. In the morning we’ll walk from Tendaba to Batelling to visit the Kiang West National Park - home to many rare species of bird as well as Guinea baboons, Senegal bushbaby and marsh Mongoose. When you’re all primate-d out, we’ll jump in a safari truck heading back to the ship, via Tendaba, and passing local villages as we go. In the afternoon the excursion is to Bao Bolong Wetland Reserve - with six major bolongs (creeks) and remarkable birding and boating opportunities. Overnight docked in Tendaba.

Day 3 | Wednesday

GAMBIA RIVER – KUNTAUR - RIVER GAMBIA NATIONAL PARK, THE GAMBIA
Early morning we continue our journey upstream on the Gambia River, heading to the bustling port town, Kuntaur. This is the last inland stop navigable for ocean-going ships. Yes, even our small ship. The optional excursion this afternoon is a motor pirogue journey further inland to Baboon Island, a part of The Gambia National Park. Listen and learn as a local park ranger teaches us all about the park's flora and fauna. Then, as we drift slowly and peacefully back towards Kuntaur, keep a look out for the chimpanzees at a rehabilitation project en route. You may also spot hippos, crocodiles, Red Colobus monkeys, and more. An exceptional dance, the Kankurang, is performed on our return to Kuntaur. The Kankurang is believed to dispense justice and ward off evil spirits. Overnight docked in Kuntaur.

Day 4 | Thursday

KUNTAUR – JANJANBUREH - KAUR, THE GAMBIA
We hope you’ve slept well as we have a varied and active optional tour today. First to Janjanbureh via bus and local ferry. Janjanbureh is one of the oldest towns in The Gambia, formerly known as Georgetown. Wander the streets and take in the laid back vibes before we head back to the bus and on to our second destination: Lamin Koto. Here, you’ll see a new school in the process of being built, thanks to generous donations from Variety Cruises and our clients. From here we’ll visit the mysterious stones of Wassu, a sacred burial ground thousands of years old, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After lunch we sail downstream to the small fishing village, Kaur. Explore and see how local Gambians live here today. Lastly, join us in the evening for our signature Captain’s Farewell Dinner as we sail downstream, back towards Banjul.

Day 5 | Friday

KUNTA KINTEH ISLAND - BANJUL, THE GAMBIA
One more day in The Gambia, with lots more to learn and discover. This morning we anchor at Kunta Kinteh Island. Strategically located in the middle of the Gamibia River, the island has a dark history in the slave trade, the story of which has been told to the world via author Alex Haley’s book, Roots. A local guide will teach us about the history, after which you’ll have some time to walk around before we head back to Banjul. Tonight we host Gambian Night on board, complete with a concert performed on the kora, a west African string instrument. Overnight at sea, heading towards Dakar.

Day 6 | Saturday

DAKAR, SENEGAL
Early morning arrival in Dakar. After breakfast, we will take you in an optional excursion to Goree Island and Dakar city tour, an exploratory adventure of Dakar surroundings, inviting you to discover the traces of slave trading, and its transformation into today’s African modernity. The history makes room for the present development. Lunch outside the ship. Returning to the ship in late afternoon and preparing for dinner. After dinner, we set sail southward towards the Saloum River Delta. Overnight at sea, cruising south wards along the coast.

Day 7 | Sunday

DJIFFER/SENEGAL – BANJUL, THE GAMBIA
Dolphins, crocodiles, turtles and manatees. Keep your eyes peeled for all of these and more as we venture into the Sine-Saloum Delta, Senegal. A UNESCO biosphere reserve, this important birding area is home to around 200 different bird species including flamingos, pelicans and raptors. From here, join our optional excursion to JOAL FADIOUTH, an island built on and of clam shells. Come afternoon, we begin our sail to Banjul, The Gambia. Overnight in Banjul.

Day 8 | Monday

BANJUL, THE GAMBIA
Early morning arrival in Banjul. Join your fellow adventures - who we’re sure are now friends - for one last breakfast before our trip comes to an end.

Day 1

ARRIVAL USHUAIA, EMBARKATION
Arrive in Ushuaia, Argentina - the world’s southernmost city. Explore this vibrant Patagonian city, or stretch your legs in the surrounding forests. Alternatively, consider a day trip off the beaten path into the raw nature of Tierra del Fuego. The island of Tierra del Fuego is a hiker's paradise with rugged snow-capped mountains, glaciers, flower-filled meadows and rich boggy wetlands. In the afternoon, we board our vessel, waiting to welcome us in port. After our mandatory safety drill, our expedition begins as we navigate through the calm waters of the famous Beagle Channel (named for Charles Darwin's ship). This steep-sided strait divides southern Tierra del Fuego between Chile and Argentina, and has been the jumping-off point for thousands of expeditions into the unknown. Watch out for whales and dolphins as we sail off the edge of the map into the tempestuous Drake Passage.

Day 2-3

AT SEA - CROSSING THE DRAKE PASSAGE SOUTHBOUND
Sailing onward, we cross the famed Drake Passage - the body of water separating Patagonia and the Antarctic Peninsula. The Drake Passage is known for rollicking conditions and strong westerly winds, nicknamed the Roaring Fifties. While this passage may be challenging, you can rest comfortably aboard our expedition vessels, which are purpose-built with stabilizers, powerful engines and manned by a highly-qualified crew. The most spirited sailors consider Drake Passage a lifetime achievement - and you will complete the crossing twice! Our days in the Drake Passage will be put to good use preparing for our arrival in Antarctica - your Expedition Leader will brief you comprehensively on how to stay safe and minimise your impact on this precious wilderness, as well as briefing you thoroughly on our plans for our time spent exploring, including hints and tips for wildlife watching. Our dedicated Expedition Team will assist you to biosecure your clothing and equipment (a vital process to protect Antarctica's delicate ecology), as well as sharing tailored lectures on Antarctic exploration history, wildlife, geology, glaciology and more! We will cross into the Antarctic Convergence on the third day of our voyage - watch the mercury plummet as we sail southwards into Antarctic waters, an abrupt cooling that marks the intersection of Antarctic waters with the warmer waters of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. As the sea cools, wildlife multiplies; these are some of the most biologically productive water on Earth, so expect to see petrels, albatrosses and potentially penguins, seals and whales in abundance. Weather permitting, we may be able to make landfall in the South Shetland Islands (a small but spectacular archipelago to the north of the Antarctic Peninsula) on the afternoon of our second day in the Drake Passage, marking the start of our exploration on the Last Continent.

DAY 4-10

THE ANTARCTIC PENINSULA - ADVENTURE AWAITS
With no set itinerary in Antarctica, this voyage offers adventurous travellers the chance to experience Antarctica as it was meant to be - flowing with the wind, sea and ice, and taking the best opportunities Mother Nature provides. This voyage departs in the first half of the brief Antarctic summer, when sea ice is at its maximum - this offers us ample opportunities to explore in the icy wilderness of the last continent. Our exact route will be subject to careful planning by the Expedition Leader and Captain - however we will aim to visit a range of sites which showcase the best of this staggeringly beautiful region. Marvel at the massive icebergs and vast glaciers on a Zodiac cruise in Paradise Bay. Be moved by penguins tenderly caring for their precious eggs, and fiercely defending their nests on Cuverville Island. Watch cataracts of ice tumble into clear blue ocean on a hike over the active glaciers of Neko Harbour. Experience the Antarctica of old at historic huts such as Damoy Point, lovingly restored and open to all. Feel the spray of water from the blow of a humpback whale on a Zodiac safari in Wilhelmina Bay. Wonder at awe-inspiring scenery on a ship cruise through the Lemaire Channel. Watch city-sized tabular icebergs drift silently past the ship in the Antarctic Sound. Wherever we go on the Antarctic Peninsula, endemic wildlife, tantalising history and breathtaking natural beauty abound. This time of year, expect to see penguins carefully tending their fluffy chicks, while their partners frantically hunt for food at sea. As the snow melts, opportunities for hiking onshore increase. Antarctic fur seals start to arrive in their summer feeding grounds, and humpback whale numbers increase as more of these gentle giants arrive at the end of their long migration. With luck, we may even see the young of these gentle giants. Perhaps the ice will retreat far enough to allow us access to the unknown islands south of the Antarctic circle - where the midnight sun never sets. There is no set itinerary on this trip, which allows our staff onboard to maximize the experience for all onboard. Whilst our suggestions above are just possible routes and landings, we can be sure that this will be the ultimate Antarctic experience.

DAY 11-12

AT SEA - CROSSING THE DRAKE PASSAGE NORTHBOUND
We eventually depart Antarctica, and spend two days at sea on our way northwards back across the infamous Drake Passage towards the more welcoming shores of the Beagle Channel and Ushuaia, Argentina. During our time at sea, a variety of activities will be arranged on board to provide our guests with the chance to reflect on their voyage. Relax with an expertly crafted cocktail in the Nordic Bar in the company of new friends, soak up the knowledge and passion of our Expedition Team during lectures in the Shackleton Lounge, or simply enjoy the flight of the albatross which accompany us northwards. During your last evening onboard, join the Captain and Officers for the Farewell Cocktail Party, followed by a presentation of photos and video by our onboard photographer - the ideal opportunity to re-live your Antarctic adventure. Skål!

DAY 13

RETURN TO USHUAIA AND DISEMBARKATION
On the morning of the final day of our voyage, we will arrive back at the pier of Ushuaia, Argentina. Trees, grass and a busy city may seem strange to you after the white wilderness of Antarctica! After a hearty breakfast, it is time to bid a fond farewell to the Crew and Albatros Expedition Team, and descend the gangway back to dry land with memories of the voyage of a lifetime.

Day 1

Kusadasi (Turkey), Depart 12:30
Your adventure begins in the dynamic beach resort of Kusadasi, famous for its warm and friendly ambiance. Before you set sail with us, take the time to enjoy the scenic seafront promenade and the town’s impressive Grand Bazaar to really kickstart your Aegean adventure.

Day 1

Patmos(Greece), Depart 21:00
In the afternoon, we head to the volcanic island of Patmos with its enchanting lace-like coastline and dramatic sheer cliffs. Patmos is where John the Apostle is thought to have penned the Book of Revelation and you have the opportunity to visit the “Cave of the Apocalypse” and monastery or indulge in a traditional feast.

Day 2

Santorini(Greece), Depart 20:00
The romantic charm of Santorini is one of the most celebrated Greek islands in the Aegean. Here you will have the opportunity to explore the magical villages of Fira and Oia and photograph the whitewashed houses and blue-blue-domed churches perched on caldera cliffs. With extraordinary from an elevated position, this idyllic island is the perfect location to watch the sunset.

Day 3

Athens(Greece), Depart 11:00
You're making your way through your Aegean getaway and dropping anchor in Athens. As one of the oldest cities in the world, the vibrant modern metropolis boasts an intriguing and contrasting mix of old and modern architecture in perfect harmony and balance. Soak up this ancient city's unique blend of cultures and tastes, before you take to the sea once more.

Day 3

Mykonos(Greece), Depart 23:00
The magical sun-kissed island of Mykonos invites you to admire its stunning coastline, soft sandy beaches, and rugged rocky landscape. Affectionately known as the ‘Island of the Winds’, Mykonos is home to the 16th-Century windmills that have become iconic landmarks on postcards. The energetic Greek island is well known for its beauty, diverse range of bars, cafes and restaurants and a vibrant atmosphere.

Day 4

Kusadasi(Turkey), Arrive 07:00
Kusadassi has been an important port for centuries, hosting a variety of civilizations and for a time some of the most infamous pirates of the Mediterranean. Sizzling beaches next to sparkling blue water, lively bars and a bustling Grand Bazaar add up to exciting times in this buzzing Turkish city, but above all, it is the chief point of entry to the magnificent ruins of Ephesus.

Day 1

Athens(Greece), Depart 13:00
Your heavenly Adriatic escape begins in the majestic city of Athens. As one of the oldest cities in the world, the vibrant modern metropolis boasts an intriguing and contrasting mix of old and modern architecture in perfect harmony and balance. Explore the city and soak up the atmosphere by the harbour’s edge as you wait to embark for your exciting adventure.

Day 2

Kefalonia(Greece), Depart 17:00
Fir covered lands dotted with charming villages meet a sparkling coastline on Kefalonia, the largest Ionian island. Delve further into this jewel’s beauty. See nature’s best work in the Melissani Cave where sublime colors reflect off lake within. Or watch yachts jostle as you sip a drink and enjoy the sunset on the harbor of one of the fishing villages.

Day 3-4

Dubrovnik(Croatia), Depart 12:00
As we draw closer to Dubrovnik, all eyes will be on the towering city walls. Take the chance to walk along them to gain a unique perspective of the limestone streets, baroque architecture and the shimmer of turquoise beckoning beyond. Then head further into the city’s myriad streets to soak up the atmosphere in seemingly endless bars, cafes and restaurants.

Day 4

Kotor(Montenegro), Depart 17:00
Where red rooftops contrast with crystal blue waters and towering peaks. Kotor’s spectacular bay is an awe inspiring backdrop to a medieval maze of stunning architecture, Venetian palaces, ornate churches, museums and squares sprinkled with cafes, bars and restaurants. Kotor is a UNESCO world heritage site with a 2,000 year history that can be traced back all the way to its ancient Roman beginnings. This historic city is absolutely mesmerising. Explore the monumental city walls built in the Middle Ages and criss-cross the narrow streets to the most recognisable symbol of the city, the Cathedral of St Tryphon, a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture.

Day 5

Bari(Italy), Depart 17:00
Transport yourself to the captivating port town of Bari, nestled in the stunning region of Puglia, Italy. Immerse yourself in its rich history and vibrant charm, as you explore its ancient streets and marvel at its architectural wonders. As you wander through the bustling local markets, let the scent of freshly baked focaccia and the lively chatter of locals embrace you, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the authentic Puglian lifestyle.

Day 6

Corfu(Greece), Depart 18:00
Corfu Town is cosmopolitan, charming and friendly. You can easily lose yourself here as you explore the narrow alleyways, soak up the atmosphere and meet the locals at one of the many cafes, bars and restaurants. You may be surprised by the Italian feel, largely thanks to the Venetian architecture, but you won’t be surprised by the Greek warm welcome.

Day 7

Katakolo(Greece), Depart 15:00
As you dock in the sleepy fishing village of Katakolo, you would never imagine the secret gem it guards. Nearby, the ancient city of Olympia bears a wealth of priceless artefacts and sculptures. Feel the awe that remains in the world-famous home of the Olympic Games. Here you also have the chance to unwind on a 50-mile sandy beach with crystalline blue waters.

Day 8

Athens(Greece), Arrival 07:00
While your cruise may be drawing to an end, the tantalising city of Athens still lies ahead. Delve deep into the city’s sidestreets, bursting with life and culture. Or, clamber up high to the Acropolis for a stunning view of this thriving, cosmopolitan city. As the sun sets, take in the Athens skyline by night and wonder at the dancing Aegean. There’s no better place to end your cruise than here.

Day 1 | Saturday

VENICE
Start your cruise adventure at the Venice San Basilico port, where embarkation begins at 15:00. Our attentive crew on board at our Calisto prioritizes your safety by conducting a mandatory safety drill before we start our journey. Join us for a pleasant welcome cocktail and dinner, providing the perfect opportunity to mingle and get acquainted with your fellow travelers.

Day 2 | Sunday

VENICE
Spend the day at San Basilico port, where the boat will be docked. Start your day with a delicious breakfast on board, then join our optional Venice Tour. This tour covers all the iconic attractions of this romantic city, including the Rialto Bridge, Rialto fish market, a gondola cruise along the Grand Canal, St. Mark's Basilica, and the Doge's Palace. You'll also have free time to explore Venice on your own and enjoy lunch at a charming restaurant. In the evening, join our Signature Cocktail Demonstration Experience before enjoying dinner on board. The boat stays in Venice overnight, allowing you to explore the city at night.

Day 3 | Monday

VENICE - KOPER
Callisto will leave Venice in the morning and arrive in Koper, Slovenia around 1:30 pm. Koper is a charming coastal town with a picturesque old town, vibrant harbor, and rich history. You can explore the town or join one of our optional tours: Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle, or truffle hunting with a tasting. Spend the rest of the afternoon as you please before enjoying dinner on board. The boat will stay in Koper overnight, allowing you to explore the town at night.

Day 4 | Tuesday

KOPER - PIRAN
In the morning, the ship will leave Koper and head to Piran, Slovenia. Piran is a charming seaside town known for its medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, and stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. Take a leisurely stroll through the old town, visit landmarks like the Venetian House, and indulge in fresh seafood while enjoying the Mediterranean ambiance. You have the option to explore on your own or join our optional food and wine tour, where you can taste local specialties such as olive oil, seafood, truffles, and ice cream. In the evening, enjoy dinner on board as the boat sails to our next destination, the beautiful Opatija in Croatia.

Day 5 | Wednesday

OPATIJA
The boat arrives in Opatija in the morning, a charming coastal retreat with beautiful architecture and parks. You can explore Opatija at your own pace or join our optional tour to Plitvice Lakes, known for its stunning lakes and waterfalls. Enjoy dinner with your fellow travelers before the boat departs at midnight, giving you time to wander the town or relax with a cocktail.

Day 6 | Thursday

PULA
The boat arrives in Pula in the morning, a captivating coastal city known for its well-preserved Roman amphitheater. Pula offers more than just ancient wonders, with pristine beaches, bustling markets, and a rich history and culture to explore. You can discover Pula at your own pace or join our optional guided walking tour to see the city's landmarks and iconic architecture. In the evening, join us for a special Captain's Dinner with Italian cuisine and music. We will soon set sail for our next destination, the beautiful city of Ravenna in Italy.

Day 7 | Friday

RAVENNA
The boat arrives in Ravenna in the morning, a city known for its rich history and stunning Byzantine mosaics. Ravenna is home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Basilica of San Vitale and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia. With its artistic heritage and charming streets, Ravenna is a must-visit for history and art lovers. You can explore the city on your own or join our guided tour of Ravenna's famous landmarks and indulge in the traditional cuisine. There will be free time to explore before our evening dinner on board. The boat leaves after midnight, giving you the chance to enjoy Ravenna's nightlife with a cocktail or gelato.

Day 8 | Saturday

VENICE
We will reach Venice at 8 am, and you can disembark after breakfast at 10 am. Our cruise manager will be available to assist with any prearranged transfers you have organized. We look forward to welcoming you back on one of our VARIETY CRUISES in the future, wherever you choose to explore!

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!