Best of France & Portugal Cruise Book

CRUISE GUIDE

THE BEST OF FRANCE & PORTUGAL

Enjoy the summer sun as you sail south to France’s Chateaux Country and vineyards and on to Portugal’s historic cities

August 22 - September 3, 2017 London to Lisbon

YOUR ITINERARY In response to recent feedback, we are now pleased to introduce our new dedicated cruise guides, produced individually for each Voyages to Antiquity cruise.

In this guide, you will find useful information and expert tips about the destinations you will visit, plus a comprehensive guide to both included and optional shore excursions.

There is also information on your guest speakers and an invaluable reading guide to help you discover even more.

Be sure to take this guide with you and we look forward to welcoming you on board.

AEG170822 2017

PORT

ARRIVE

AUG 22

LONDON England Embark Aegean Odyssey in Tilbury

AUG 23

HONFLEUR France

1.00pm

8.00pm

AUG 24

SAINT-MALO France

1.00pm

8.00pm

AUG 25

At Sea 7.00am

9.00am

AUG 26

MONTOIR de BRETAGNE France CHATEAUX COUNTRY NANTES France

Noon

Overnight

Saint-Malo

DEPART

La Rochelle

FRANCE

Bordeaux La Coruna O

PORTUGAL

Oporto

SPAIN

7.00pm

AUG 27

NANTES France

AUG 28

LA ROCHELLE France

8.00am

7.00pm

AUG 29

BORDEAUX France

8.00am

Overnight

AUG 30

River cruising along the Gironde River

LISBON

O

2.00pm

BORDEAUX France AUG 31

At Sea

SEP 1

LA CORUNA Spain

7.00am

7.00pm

SEP 2

OPORTO Portugal

1.00pm

6.00pm

SEP 3

LISBON Portugal Disembark Aegean Odyssey

10.00am

Honfleur Chateaux Country

5.00pm

O Overnight stay in port

Honfleur

2

LONDON

ENGLAND

INTRODUCTION

VOYAGE HIGHLIGHTS

Cross the English Channel to the beaches in Normandy, the abbey of Mont Saint-Michel and the chateaux of the Loire, where there will be opportunities to learn about the art of winemaking, before tasting some of the great vintages of Bordeaux and Cognac.

• Chance to see the famous Bayeux Tapestry depicting the ` Battle of Hastings

Visit the pilgrimage site of Santiago de Compostela in the Spanish province of Galicia; then sail to Oporto in Portugal, where you may take an excursion to Oporto Cathedral or to a nearby port wine estate, before ending your cruise in Lisbon.

• Explore the cellars and taste the product at a famous Cognac chateau

• Visit 11th-century Mont Saint-Michel, the iconic image of France

• Full day tour of the Loire Valley’s impressive Chateaux Country

• Cruise the River Gironde into the heart of Bordeaux • Take a walking tour of UNESCO Bordeaux or taste some of the region’s vintages • Take a pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela • Taste the local produce in Oporto, Portugal

Oporto

Bordeaux

Chateaux Country

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YOUR CRUISE DAY BY DAY

AUGUST 22 LONDON, ENGLAND Embark Aegean Odyssey in the port of Tilbury, near London on the River Thames, this afternoon. Settle in and sail at 5.00 pm.

AUGUST 23 HONFLEUR, FRANCE Morning at sea for a lunchtime arrival at Honfleur in Normandy. Here there will be a choice of included afternoon excursions: Explore Honfleur on a Walking Tour, including one of the town’s major sites, St Catherine’s Church, which dates from the 15th century and has the distinction of being France’s largest timber-built church. Other sites of interest include the Salt Warehouses, the Lieutenancy and the Old Port.

Alternatively, Bayeux Cathedral and Tapestry Museum takes you to see the fine Norman Gothic 11th-century church in Bayeux, followed by the great jewel of Norman Romanesque Art, the Tapisserie de Bayeux, an embroidery in coloured wool that remains the most accurate and lively document to survive the Middle Ages.

Return to ship for an evening sail.

AUGUST 24 SAINT-MALO, FRANCE Morning at sea for a lunchtime arrival in Saint-Malo.

Mont Saint-Michel

4

Enjoy the afternoon at leisure in this lovely resort, or take an extended afternoon excursion to Mont Saint-Michel, the abbey which lent support to William of Normandy in his claim to the throne of England. He rewarded this with properties and grounds in England, including a small island

off the Cornish coast which was modelled after the Mont and became St Michael’s Mount. Mont Saint-Michel is one of the iconic images of France, with its sharp spires, rocky cliffs rising from the sea and impressive fortifications. At low tide, the surrounding waters recede, leaving the islet protruding from the sandy beaches. Visiting the 11th-century abbey and its narrow streets transports the visitor to the Middle Ages.

We will then return to Aegean Odyssey for an evening sail.

AUGUST 25 AT SEA A leisurely day at sea gives you time to enjoy the many facilities Aegean Odyssey has to offer.

AUGUST 26 MONTOIR-DE-BRETAGNE – NANTES, FRANCE A breakfast time arrival in Montoir-de-Bretagne for a fullday visit to the spectacular Chateaux Country of the Loire Valley. Once the favoured region of the French royal family, this region boasts medieval fortresses, elaborate chateaux, Renaissance residences and impressive cathedrals. The Loire also produces some of the world’s greatest wines including Sancerre and Muscadet.

A choice of included excursions is available here. Exploring the Chateaux Country will take you from the fairy-tale gothic towers of the Château d’Ussé to Chinon for a guided tour of the Royal Fortress, where in 1308, Jacques de Molay and other dignitaries of the Knights Templar were imprisoned.

Nantes

Alternatively explore Villandry, the last of the great chateaux to be built. Originally a 14th-century castellation its subsequent 16th-century extension resulted in an unusually avant-garde style. By contrast, the medieval “ideal city” and royal necropolis of Fontevraud Royal Abbey is one of the largest surviving monastic cities of the Middle Ages.

Re-join the ship in Nantes, for an overnight on board.

AUGUST 27 NANTES, FRANCE

Loire Valley

The birthplace of Jules Verne, Nantes is France’s sixth largest city and dates back to the 2nd-century BC. Today it has arguably been transformed more than any other city in France to become one of the nation’s thriving cultural and artistic centres.

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DESTINATION TIP LA ROCHELLE If you need a break from exploring chateaux on this itinerary, your free time in La Rochelle may be spent visiting somewhere a little bit different.

One of La Rochelle’s top attractions is its aquarium – being one of the largest in Europe. The aquarium is home to some 12,000 sea creatures and is also a marine conversation centre.

Split into different bodies of water, highlights include the jellyfish tunnel and the shark tank. It is located very close to the old port and so can be easily combined with a pleasant stroll through the architecturally - regal old town during your free time.

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An included morning sightseeing tour here takes you to some of Nantes Highlights, including Saint Pierre Cathedral and the Castle of the Dukes of Brittany. The area that was once Feydeau Island has some beautiful old buildings, while the Jardin des Plantes is the main botanical garden of France and has a substantial collection including 600 varieties of camellias, the symbol of Nantes.

An optional afternoon excursion to Chateau de la Roche Courbon is also available. Built in the 15th century, the original castle was transformed into an elegant 17th-century residence featuring a garden a la française with woodland Stone Age cave dwellings.

The afternoon will be at leisure, before an evening sail.

AUGUST 29 BORDEAUX, FRANCE

AUGUST 28 LA ROCHELLE, FRANCE

Aegean Odyssey cruises through the glorious French countryside along the River Gironde for a breakfast arrival in the heart of Bordeaux, where the magnificent 18th century architecture has led many people to describe the city as having the most beautiful streets in France. You may also venture out of Bordeaux to one of the region’s prestigious wine estates for a tour of the cellars and a tasting, as part of a choice of half-day included excursions.

Breakfast arrival in La Rochelle, where another iconic French taste is the focus as you may take a tour unveiling the secrets of a Cognac distillery on a choice of included half-day excursions which, due to capacity levels at the wine estates, may be operated in either the morning or the afternoon.

La Rochelle Highlights with Cognac takes you on a panoramic city tour beginning at Saint-Sauveur Church before heading to the Chateau de la Peraudiere. Established in 1872 by the Cognac brandy broker Jules Normandin, here you will visit the cellars and have a tasting of Cognac and Pineau des Charentes, a fortified wine made from lightly fermented grape must and Cognac.

Or, enjoy a guided Walking Tour of La Rochelle Highlights, including the old town and harbour, from where it is only a short drive to Ré Island, which is connected to the mainland by a bridge nearly two miles long. Here you will enjoy a panoramic tour from Rivedoux to La Flotte and the island’s capital, Saint Martin.

Evening sail.

A Panoramic Walking Tour of UNESCO Bordeaux begins at the Second World War German submarine base before continuing to L’Esplanade des Quinconces, the Palais Rohan and the 13th-century Cathedral of St Andrew. The 18thcentury Grand Theatre de Bordeaux is one of the most beautiful theatres in Europe, while the old town has a wealth of exquisite architecture to admire.

Alternatively, sit back and enjoy some of the city’s main sights, including the cathedral, Palais Rohan and Grand Theatre, on a Panoramic Drive through Bordeaux, on your way to some wine tasting at one of the region’s most prestigious estates.

Due to capacity levels at the wine estates, excursions may be operated in either the morning or the afternoon.

The rest of the day will then be at leisure, before an overnight on board ship in Bordeaux.

AUGUST 30 BORDEAUX, FRANCE Enjoy an optional morning excursion to Saint-Emilion Village, located in the heart of the famous Bordeaux wine area. This is a very special place combining world-famous wineries, beautiful architecture and great monuments. A local legend says that the village was founded by a monk from Brittany who fled from his hometown of Yannes in the 8th century to seek refuge in one of the natural caves.

Then return to Aegean Odyssey for an early afternoon sail, with the rest of the day at sea.

AUGUST 31 AT SEA Enjoy some lectures from our expert guest speakers, visit the Athena Spa and Gym, or relax in the Charleston Lounge.

SEPTEMBER 1 LA CORUNA, SPAIN Early morning arrival in La Coruna, northern Spain, and a choice of excursions: Either a full day to Santiago de Compostela, where it is believed by the faithful that St James the Apostle, who preached in Galicia, was brought after his death in the Holy Land, after which an 11th-century church was built over his remains. The cathedral here is the final destination for thousands of Christian pilgrims who walk the “Way of St James” and your tour of this magnificent building, features the crypt where St James is believed to be buried. Alongside the cathedral, you’ll also take in a guided tour of Obradoiro Square, the Palacio de Rajoy and the Hostal dos Reis Catolicos.

Saint-Emilion

Alternatively, enjoy a half-day Taste of La Coruna, beginning with a visit to the Town Hall and the Plaza Maria Pita, named after the town’s heroine. This is followed by a walk around the old part of the city and a drive along La Coruna’s waterfront to the Archaeological Museum at the Castle of San Anton, near the Tower of Hercules, an ancient Roman Lighthouse that is almost 1,900-years-old. Then enjoy an afternoon at leisure before evening sailing.

SEPTEMBER 2 OPORTO, PORTUGAL Bordeaux

Morning at sea for a lunchtime arrival in Oporto, where you may visit a wine estate to sample that most famous of fortified

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wines as well as tour this charming port and cathedral, during your included afternoon Oporto City Tour and Port Tasting.

First stop is the Romanesque-style Cathedral, built initially in the 12th century but extensively rebuilt some five hundred years later. Next, you will visit the Stock Exchange Palace, built in the 19th century to impress European investors, before crossing the Douro River to Gaia by way of the unique doubledecker Dom Luis Bridge, to visit a well-known wine cellar for a tasting of port wine, before an early evening sail.

Arrive into Lisbon this morning and disembark from Aegean Odyssey after breakfast.

For those passengers who have opted for the pre-cruise London hotel stay and/or post-cruise Lisbon hotel stay, please go online to www.voyagestoantiquity.com for more information.

Full itinerary details will be sent with your Final Documents.

Oporto

Santiago de Compostela

8

SEPTEMBER 3 LISBON, PORTUGAL

INCLUDED SHORE EXCURSIONS HONFLEUR Honfleur Walking Tour - Half Day Bayeux Tapestry and Tapestry Museum - Half Day SAINT-MALO Mont Saint-Michel - Extended Half Day

La Rochelle Highlights with Re Island - Half Day BORDEAUX UNESCO Bordeaux - Half Day Panoramic Bordeaux and Wine Tasting - Half Day LA CORUNA

MONTOIR DE BRETAGNE Exploring the Chateaux Country from Usse to Chinon - Full Day Exploring the Chateaux Country - Villandry and Fontevraud Royal Abbey - Full Day

Santiago de Compostela - Full Day Taste of La Coruna - Half Day OPORTO Oporto City Tour and Port Tasting - Half Day

NANTES Nantes Highlights - Half Day LA ROCHELLE La Rochelle Highlights with Cognac - Half Day

For details of these excursions, please see itinerary on preceding pages or for more in-depth descriptions, visit us online at: www.voyagestoantiquity.com

For details of optional excursions available on this cruise, please refer to pages 10/11. Excursions listed are half day, either morning or afternoon, depending on time in port, or full day as shown. One excursion is included in each port of call; where more than one excursion is shown, you will be able to choose.

All our excursions require a basic level of fitness, although some are more strenuous than others. The symbols next to each excursion will give you an idea of specific things to be aware of.

When there is a significant amount of walking involved in an excursion, the walking symbol has been indicated.

Generally, this applies when at least 1.5-2 hours of the excursion is made up of continuous walking.

KEY TO SYMBOLS Extensive walking Cobbled streets Significant steps Uphill sections Lunch included

On this itinerary, many of the excursions visit towns with cobbled streets, often with uphill sections.

The full day Chateaux Country tours from Montoir- de-Bretagne and the excursion to Santiago de Compostela should be recognised as long days with lots of walking involved. Mont SaintMichel is also a particularly difficult excursion in terms of walking and some passengers might choose to have a day off on this day.

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OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS LA ROCHELLE, France Chateau de la Roche Courbon - Half Day - $75 A castle was built here in around 1475 by Jehan de Latour, on a site that had been inhabited since prehistoric times.

In the 17th century, the Courbon family, which had occupied the castle for two centuries, transformed it into a more comfortable residence. More alterations were made in the 18th century, but it was eventually sold in 1817 and then abandoned. It was purchased in 1920

by Paul Chenereau, who restored the chateau and its gardens. The chateau is still owned and inhabited by his descendants.

Bordeaux vineyard

10

Built in the 15th century, upon a rocky outcrop in the midst of marshland, the original castle was transformed into an elegant residence by Jean-Louis de Courbon, during the 17th century. As the marquis would not flee during the French Revolution, the chateau was not sold.

His daughter Charlotte married an aide-de-camp of Napoleon. Because upkeep was so expensive, however, the chateau became abandoned during the following hundred years.

The chateau has a Garden à la française, redone in 1936-1939, featuring a terrace with an Italian gallery, a monumental stairway, a parterre with four compartments and statues. The gardens include an orchard, flower garden, geometrical flower beds and lawns surrounding a small lake (‘mirror pool’). The River Bruant flows through the gardens, feeding the water features. Beyond that, an ornamental staircase leads to higher ground, on the far side of the river.

In the grounds are some Stone Age cave dwellings in woodland close by the River Bruant. Prehistoric finds from the site are housed in the ‘keep’ museum.

and beyond. Soon he had many disciples and with their help, he made the town a religious centre.

Even after his death his followers carried on his legacy and named the town after him: Saint-Emilion. In 1999, the vineyards of Saint-Emilion became the first winery in the world to be given World Heritage status by UNESCO.

BORDEAUX, France Saint-Emilion Village - Half Day - $75 Saint-Emilion is a charming medieval village located in the heart of the famous Bordeaux wine area. This is a very special place that combines world-famous wineries, beautiful architecture and great monuments.

A local legend says that the village was founded by a monk from Brittany who fled from his hometown of Vannes to seek refuge in one of the natural caves in the 8th century. His name was Emilion and for many years, he lived as a hermit. He is said to have performed a few miracles and rapidly became famous in the region

Saint-Emilion

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YOUR GUEST SPEAKERS A quintessential part of the Voyages to Antiquity experience is our worldclass programme of celebrated guest speakers, all of whom are carefully chosen to provide high quality lectures designed to enrich your time aboard Aegean Odyssey, adding texture and depth to your journey.

With topics ranging from art and history to archaeology and architecture, from wine and cuisine to theology and nature, you will find a Voyages to Antiquity talk informative and accessible.

Here are the experts who will be providing an array of enlightening talks during your voyage.

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Dr Thomas Mannack The Classical Art Research Centre, University of Oxford Dr Thomas Mannack is Reader in Classical Iconography at the University of Oxford where he teaches Greek and Roman Art and Architecture, and has taught Greek Art at King’s College, London. He is an internationally known expert on Greek figure-decorated pottery and studied Classical Archaeology, Ancient History and European Archaeology in Kiel, Heidelberg and Oxford.

He gained a first class doctorate at Kiel University. Dr Mannack has published books and papers in English and German on Greek pottery, Greek sculpture, and the reception of ancient art.

in favour of “Science”, but are occasionally willing to accompany him on cruises (and paint toy figures better than him).

He has been invited to present papers by many universities and academies including New York, Berlin, Tours, Brussels, Munich, Copenhagen, Vienna, Basel and Zurich.

In his spare time, Dr Mannack is passionate about flat German tin figures, which his wife Sigrid hates, and on which he has published two scholarly articles, just to irk her. His daughters, Lilith and Fidelis, have rejected the refined and beautiful field of Classical Archaeology

Santiago de Compostela

Maggie McNie The Institute of Masters of Wine Maggie was educated at St Paul’s Girls’ School, trained as an actress at Rada, and was taught to sing by the great English tenor, Heddle Nash. She got into wine entirely by accident after some years on the stage and screen, working originally for International Distillers & Vintners at Harlow as a PA and then becoming Manager in charge of product training. Following this, she became wine buyer for British Rail and the Malmaison Wine Club which was to be the first of the Privatisations under the Conservative Government of Mrs. Thatcher.

She passed the Master of Wine Examination in 1986, and since then has worked privately as an educator, wine writer, lecturer and consultant. Her top speciality has been Champagne, but she has also been involved in the development of English wine since 1989.

La Rochelle

Dr Joyce Salisbury Professor Emerita of History, University of Wisconsin

Did you know that:

Joyce grew up in Brazil and Mexico, then moved to the States and obtained a PhD in Medieval History from Rutgers University in New Jersey. She was endlessly curious about what shapes people’s actions, and thus focused on the history of religion and aspects of social history, like the history of sexuality.

Joyce was an award-winning teacher at the University of Wisconsin – Green Bay. When she retired, she could indulge her twin passions of writing books and giving lectures all over the world. Joyce is an author of more than ten books, including a best-selling western civilisation textbook, “The West in the World”, and other non-fiction books on history and religion, including “The Beast Within: Animals in the Middle Ages”, “The Blood of Martyrs: Unintended Consequences of Ancient Violence” and the award-winning “Perpetua’s Passion: Death and Memory of a Young Roman Woman”. Her latest book, “Rome’s Christian Empress: Galla Placidia Rules at the Twilight of the Empire,” (Johns Hopkins, 2015) tells the biography of a woman who travelled in Spain, and lost North Africa to the Vandals.

The “Botafumeiro,” the incense burner in the cathedral of Santiago is one of the largest in the world – weighing 80 kg – and it swings on a pulley over the whole nave of the church William the Conqueror’s wife Matilda was reputed to be the most beautiful woman in the world; she bore him 9 or 10 children Vasco da Gama bridge of the Tagus River in Lisbon is the longest bridge in Europe – 10.7 miles long (17.2 km)

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READING GUIDE There’s nothing like a good book to accompany you on your travels.

N O N -F I C T I O N

Jonathan Mao D-Day: Minute by Minute ISBN: 9781780722429, Paperback

Our associates at Blackwell’s – the famous Oxford bookseller – have put together a selection of books that we feel would provide the perfect accompaniment for this magnificent voyage.

Anthony Beevor D-Day

For a description of each book, please go online to www.voyagestoantiquity.com, or for a more comprehensive description, please visit Blackwell’s website www.blackwell.co.uk and enter the ISBN number shown.

Jonathan Fenby The History of Modern France

ISBN: 9780241968970, Paperback

ISBN: 9781471129308, Paperback

Piu Marie Eatwell They Eat Horses Don’t They?

ISBN: 9781781854464, Paperback

Graham Robb The Discovery of France ISBN: 9780330427616, Paperback

Sophie Brissaud The Essential Guide to Bordeaux Wines ISBN: 9781617691645, Paperback

Nantes

14

Caroline Moorehead Village of Secrets: Defying the Nazis in Vichy France ISBN: 9780099554646 Paperback

Stefan Zweig Marie Antionette ISBN: 9781906548308, Paperback

Diarmaid MacCulloch A History of Christianity ISBN: 9780141021898, Paperback

Tony Kevin Walking the Camino: A Modern Pilgrimage to Santiago ISBN: 9780857861856, Paperback

Rene Freund The Road to Santiago: Walking the Way of St James ISBN: 9781909961227, Paperback

Nicholas Faith Cognac

Roger Crowley “Conquerors: How Portugal Forged the First Global Empire

ISBN: 9781908984654, Paperback

ISBN: 9780571290901, Paperback

Barry Hatton The Portuguese: A Modern History ISBN: 9781904955771, Paperback

Collins Bird Guide: Britain And Europe ISBN: 9780007268146, Paperback

FICTION

Alain-Fournier Le Grand Meaulnes

MAPS, GUIDES & REFERENCE Title

Publisher

ISBN Number

ISBN: 9780099529729, Paperback

Mediterranean Cruise Map

Freytag and Berndt

9783707912906

Muriel Barbery The Elegance of the Hedgehog

Cruise Guide to Europe

Eyewitness Travel Guide

9781409370222

France

Eyewitness Travel Guide

9781409329770

Loire Valley

Eyewitness Travel Guide

9780241189245

Lisbon

Marco Polo Pocket Guide with Map

9781910120422

ISBN: 9781906040185, Hardback

De Maupassant Bel-Ami ISBN: 9780199553938, Paperback

Graham Green Monsignor Quixote ISBN: 9780099283942, Paperback

Jose Saramago The Year of the Death of Ricardo Reis ISBN: 9781860465024, Paperback

Oporto

Lisbon

Bordeaux

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AEGEAN ODYSSEY

16

Carrying around 350 passengers, the size of our ship allows access to ports other vessels cannot reach, meaning we can offer a greater breadth of itinerary and range of destinations.

We sail up the Guadalquivir River into the heart of Seville as well as the Gironde River in France to Bordeaux, and are ideally sized to access smaller ports and islands, too.

SHIP’S SPECIFICATION Ship’s Tonnage

11,563

Length

461 Feet

Beam

67 feet

Draft

20.5 feet

Cruising Speed

16 knots

Our on-board experience is also a little different: you’ll discover an intimate and relaxed atmosphere that enables you to get to know your like-minded fellow travellers. Whether it’s over dinner, in conversation about a lecture or on shore excursions, friendships are easily formed.

Passenger Decks

7

Stabilisers

2

Passengers also appreciate our smart, casual dress code – cutting down on the amount of luggage you need.

Ship’s Registry

Passenger Staterooms/Cabins

216

Passengers, lower beds

386

Classification

Lloyd’s Register Society London Panama

ON-BOARD FACILITIES • Two restaurants

• Internet Centre

• Three lounges

• Outdoor pool

• Four bars

• Athena Spa and Gym

• Lecture theatre

• Beauty Salon

• Library

• Medical Centre

• Shop

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What passengers love most about Aegean Odyssey is the warm and intimate atmosphere. Ships, like people, have personalities. Some are proper and formal. Others offer the anonymity of a large hotel. On board Aegean Odyssey you are greeted as a returning family member even if it’s your first time on board.

DINING DELIGHTS - INDOORS OR OUT! We are very fortunate that the areas we sail to have a strong culinary tradition. The gastronomic culture of using the very best fresh local ingredients cooked in a simple but delicious style is the inspiration for the menus on board Aegean Odyssey.

THE MARCO POLO RESTAURANT: The most formal of the ship’s restaurants, the Marco Polo has full waiter service and a casual country-club elegance.

THE TERRACE CAFE: With a combination of indoor and outdoor seating, sophisticated Mediterranean interior design and cooking on the open grill, the Terrace Cafe replicates the charm and ambiance of a seaside trattoria.

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Dinner al fresco: In the evenings, the Terrace Cafe recreates the informal yet sophisticated atmosphere of a bistro, the perfect place to start your evening.

SERVICE WITH A SMILE Ask any world traveller where they receive the best service and they will undoubtedly answer the Far East.

REFRESHING THE MIND - AS WELL AS THE BODY! During your cruise you will enjoy a programme of lectures and discussions held in the Ambassador Lounge, designed to bring to life the wonderful sites you visit on your journey. There will normally be a number of guest speakers on your cruise, each with different areas of expertise.

Our library is beautifully appointed and houses a well-stocked collection selected by the experts at the Oxford-based bookseller, Blackwell’s. Newspapers are delivered by satellite and are available in the library.

Relax on the sun deck and cool off in the outdoor pool. Pamper yourself at the Athena Health Spa,

where you will find wonderful therapies and treatments to revive you. Our hairdressers and beauty centre is also on hand, and there’s a full fitness studio and early morning yoga sessions to set you up for the day.

Of all the nationalities in this part of the world, it is the Filipinos who carry the highest reputation for attention to detail. Fluent in English and always ready with a smile, our Filipino crew will win your heart.

Before dinner, enjoy a drink in the Charleston Lounge or watch the sun go down from The Terrace. After dinner, perhaps take in a lecture about the places you’ll visit the next day, or enjoy the string trio, pianist and vocalist performance.

In some ports we organise local entertainment to perform on board.

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Category B - Junior Stateroom with balcony

Category H - Premium Outside Cabin

20

Category F - Deluxe Stateroom

DECK PLANS

KEY  Single Cabins  Third Pullman berth in these cabins 

Third/Fourth Pullman berth in these cabins

#

Cabin for guests with disabilities

Double Accomodation

Elevator 404# 403

405

707

708

714

711

716

713

718

713

718

715

720

715

720

717

722

717

722

721 723

815

815 816 817

818

819

820 822

816

537 CHARLESTON LOUNGE

CHARLESTON LOUNGE

539 543

541

531

549

429

427 ▲

▲ 530 431 435

532

535

536

537

538 539

HAIR DRESSER

545

540543 547 542549

541

INTERNET

817 819

820

739

742 739

742

TERRACE CAFE

822

741

744 741

744

823

824

823

824

743

746 743

746

826

825

826

745

748 745

748

BAR

BAR

827

828

827

828

747

750 747

750

THE TERRACE

THE TERRACE

476

478

478

• •

• •

554 556

567

560 567

560

569

562 569

562

571

564 571

564

573

566 573

566

575

568 575

568

577

570 577

570

•

476

477

552

558

460

544 477

561 554

• •

456

474

561

• •

TERRACE CAFE

454

460

475

550

556 563

456451

475

542

559 552

558 565

451

474

557 550

565

453

471

559

563

452

471

557

740

446

450

464

546

738

448

452447

464 ATHENA HEALTH 466 SPA 470

548

740 737

446443

467

546

738 735

448445 450449 454453

ATHENA 459 HEALTH SPA 463

555 548

733 736

443 447

459

553

737

440

540 467

555

735

432 436 ▲

445

455

553

SHOP

438

428

449 536 455

730

SHOP 736

434

424

442

727

734

430

444

730

731 734

426

420

442

727

LIBRARY

422

416

444

544

LIBRARY

418

439

551

732

437

414 ▲

441

551

729 732

433

413 416

418415 420 417 422 419 421 424 426 425 428423 430 429 432427 ▲ 434 ▲ 431 ▲ 436433 438 435 440437

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408 409 410

412 411

534 439

538 HAIR DRESSER

408 407

••

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547 545

419

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818

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AMBASSADOR LOUNGE

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•

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AMBASSADOR LOUNGE

409 410

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MARCO POLO RESTAURANT

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STANDARD OUTSIDE

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STANDARD OUTSIDE

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DELUXE STATEROOM OUTSIDE

E

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D

DELUXE STATEROOM BALCONY

C

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B

JJUNIOR SUITE BALCONY

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Single Accomodation MEDICAL

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PREMIUM OUTSIDE

GG*

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*Categories GG, I, II and some HH cabins

PROMENADE DECK LIDO DECKLIDO DECK BRIDGE DECK PROMENADE DECK BRIDGE DECK

MARCO POLO DECK MARCO POLO DECK BELVEDERE DECK DECK have partially restricted view BELVEDERE DECKCOLUMBUSCOLUMBUS DECK

www.voyagestoantiquity.com 21

EXCURSION INFORMATION Voyages to Antiquity’s cruises include shore excursions in most ports of call. Some ports offer multiple opportunities for sightseeing, and in these instances, Voyages to Antiquity offers carefully selected excursions – some as an alternative to the main included excursion, some at an additional cost.

WHAT TO EXPECT ON TOUR These sightseeing programmes are outstanding but can be challenging. Visits to archaeological sites require walking over uneven surfaces, up and down multiple steps, and therefore a reasonable level of fitness is recommended. Some passengers may decide to take a break on certain days and explore the environs around the port.

Look for the symbols on page 9 to get a good idea of what can be expected on each excursion. Tour durations are approximate and, to be sure you get the most out of the excursion and to avoid overcrowding, the sequence of site visits and operating times may vary. The on-board staff will brief you nightly on the expected plans for the following day.

All departure times and meeting points will be advised in the Daily Journal on board. Some countries require you to carry certain documents ashore and this will be advised on board at the appropriate time. Please note that we reserve the right to change, cancel or substitute an included excursion at any time.

Lisbon

22

OUR SHORE EXCURSION TEAM Our Shore Excursion Manager and Graduate Assistants are on hand to make sure you get the most out of your shoreside experience. Informative briefings will be given regarding the excursions and ports of call, and the team will be on hand at the Reception Desk to answer any further queries you might have. During the excursions, although we endeavour to have a representative on each bus as much as possible, this cannot be guaranteed. The role of our ship’s excursion staff when ashore, is primarily to ensure the smooth operation and delivery of our excursion product in conjunction with the local guide and operator. This often means rotating between groups and working with the local guides. Kindly note that, although keen to assist when required, our team are not responsible for providing walking support or making sure everyone in the group is present.

OUR GUIDES It is one thing to see Santiago de Compostela and quite another to see it in the company of a good guide who speaks your language and can share his/her knowledge and passion for history. All of our shore excursions feature qualified English-speaking guides who seek to enlighten your visit with their expertise.

SHOPPING From the wine of France to the cork products of Portugal, the crafts of this part of the world have evolved over the centuries. While these shore excursions focus on the history,

culture and archaeology of the area, some offer the chance to visit local workshops and observe demonstrations.

Voyages to Antiquity has no connection with any shopping establishment and does not assume responsibility for purchases made ashore. We also recommend insurance on anything you choose to ship home.

VISITS TO SITES/MUSEUMS

TRANSPORTATION

Note: For passengers on Grand Voyages, availability of included and optional excursions in London/Tilbury and Lisbon will be advised on board.

Various modes of transportation are used, depending on the excursion. Most motorcoaches are deluxe, air-conditioned vehicles unless unavailable in that port.

CLOTHING TIPS Sunhats and sunscreen are recommended when participating in excursions – especially when walking through towns and villages.

Respectful dress is required for the following excursions as sites of a religious nature are included: Bayeux Cathedral and Tapestry Museum, Mont Saint-Michael, Villandry and Fontevraud Royal Abbey and Santiago de Compostela. As a rule, this means shoulders and knees should be covered.

Further details will be advised in the on-board briefings, along with weather predictions.

On occasions, substitutions need to be made due to opening/ closing times of some sites/museums, but all possible is done to ensure schedules operate as described. If a change is made, guests will be advised with their final documents or at the shore excursion briefings on board.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS Itinerary Changes The cruise and tour programmes featured in this brochure are planned many months in advance. Occasionally changes have to be made to the itineraries due to circumstances beyond the control of Voyages to Antiquity.

Responsibility The responsibility of Voyages to Antiquity and the operator of the vessel is strictly limited according to the Terms and Conditions set forth in the Passage Contract that you receive prior to embarkation. You are urged to read the Passage Contract carefully. A sample is available to be mailed on request or can be viewed and printed from the Voyages to Antiquity website at any time. Transportation on board the ship is provided solely by the ship operator and pursuant to the Passage Contract. Voyages to Antiquity reserves the right to accept or decline any person as a guest for any reason. Voyages to Antiquity shall not be responsible for any act, event or omission during the time passengers are not aboard the Voyages to Antiquity vessel. Voyages to Antiquity acts only as an agent for the supplier of off-ship services such as airlines and other off-ship transportation carriers, meals, shore excursions, accommodations, air ambulance and shoreside physicians. Guests agree not to hold Voyages to Antiquity, its owners, agents or representatives liable for any loss, injury, expense or damage which results directly or indirectly from any act or omission, whether negligent or otherwise, of any third party person or firm which is to, or does, provide goods or services in connection with the trip or any available option.

Without limiting the foregoing, Voyages to Antiquity shall have no liability to passengers for the quality of services at, and the condition, cleanliness or safety of a hotel, housing facility, or conveyance, or for any transportation delay, including but not limited to liability for inconvenience, shortened

vacation time, additional expenses, or any other kind of damage. Voyages to Antiquity expressly disclaims all responsibility of any nature whatsoever for any loss, damage or injury to property or person resulting from air, rail, motorcoach or any other form of transportation other than that actually provided by the Voyages to Antiquity vessel.

Services provided by Independent Contractors All shoreside tours and services described in this brochure or on the website are provided by independent contractors. Voyages to Antiquity acts solely as ticketing agent for all shoreside activities and has no legal obligation or liability of any kind to guests for acts or omissions in connection with or arising out of arrangements with independent contractors, including but not limited to airline carriers, ground/tour operators, and hotels since they are neither agents for nor employees of Voyages to Antiquity.

Guests with Special Needs The tour programmes featured in this brochure include extensive sightseeing and to fully participate each guest must be reasonably fit and have no walking difficulties. Whenever possible Voyages to Antiquity will try to accommodate guests with special needs as long as the mobility issues are not an impediment to others on the guided tours. For further details, refer to the Essential Travel Information leaflet or to that section of the Voyages to Antiquity website.

Errors & Omissions While Voyages to Antiquity makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of information in this booklet, its promotions and as displayed on the website, Voyages to Antiquity reserves the right not to honour any published fares that it determines were erroneous due to printing, electronic or clerical error. Voyages to Antiquity is not responsible or liable for any typographical errors, omissions or misprints.

Bordeaux

www.voyagestoantiquity.com 23

THE 2017 CRUISE COLLECTION MADEIRA,

May 3 2017

M OR O C C O & SEVILLE

Madeira’s magnificent flora begins this springtime voyage to the Canary Islands, Morocco’s great cities and the charms of Moorish Seville and Cordoba

IBERIA,

HISTORIC SPAIN, SICILY & ITALY

May 11, 2017

ICELAND,

May 25, 2017

FRENCH MOORISH

A springtime voyage combining a two-night hotel stay in Rome, visits to the islands of Sardinia, Corsica and Elba, Renaissance Florence and the French Riviera

June 29 & August 8, 2017

ENGLAND,

Enjoy the sunshine on a two-week voyage from the French Riviera down the western Mediterranean coast to Spain’s historic cities, and the tip of mainland Europe

July 13, 2017

CELTIC

FRANCE &

FAROES &

IRELAND &

S COTLAND &

ENGLAND

SHETLANDS

S COTLAND

IRELAND

Join our magnificent voyage to the edge of the Arctic Circle and the incredible landscapes and nautural wonders of Iceland

From the catles and caves of Scotland to the Isles of Scilly, get to know more about the British Isles and Ireland on this fascinating summer sailing

Two nights in Edinburgh begin this voyage from Scotland to the spectacular west of Ireland and the beautiful Isles of Scilly

Sail from Seville along the Guadalquivir River and onto the Atlantic on a voyage to Portugal’s historic cities, France’s Bordeaux wine region and England’s South Coast

THE BEST OF

August 22, 2017

FRANCE &

MEDITERRANEAN

September 1, 2017

ODYS SEY

ITALIAN &

September 13, 2017

ADRIATIC

PORTUGAL

Sail through the Strait of Gibraltar and accross the Mediterranean as this splendid voyage takes you to charming ports and historic cities

DALMATIA

July 24, 2017

September 27, 2017

& ANCIENT

HIGHLIGHTS

Enjoy the summer sun as you sail south to France’s Chateaux Country and on to Portugal’s historic cities

June 6, 2017

RIVIERA & SPAIN

Moorish cities, monumental Sicily, the mysteries of Pompeii, and the grandeur of Rome - all in one magnificent journey

June 15, 2017

THE RENAIS SANCE & RIVIERA S

GREECE

This leisurely-paced cruise around Italy allows time to enjoy the pleasures of beautiful Sorrento, explore the ruins of Pompeii and Sicily, and sail along the glorius Adriatic coast to Venice

THE MULTI-AWARD WINNING CRUISE LINE

Cruise through the beautiful Adriatic Sea and the serene splendour of Kotor Bay en route to the classical sites of ancient Greece

UK CRUISERS’ CHOICE

CLA S SICAL

October 5, 2017

ANCIENT

GREECE &

GREECE,

AEGEAN

SICILY &

ISLANDS

SPAIN

This fascinating voyage around the Aegean is a true autumn treat. Starting from Athens, you will visit some of the most inspiring monuments of the ancient world

Sail across the southern Mediterranean to the fascinating island of Sicily and the sites of Moorish Spain

October 16, 2017

ANDALUSIAN

October 29, 2017

SEVILLE,

SPAIN &

MOROCCO

MOROCCO

& CANARY ISLANDS

November 9, 2017

2017

Voyages to Antiquity Aegean Odyssey Best Small Ship: Shore Excursions

WINNER Andalusia’s great cities – Seville, Cordoba and Granada – combine with exotic Morocco on this fabulous voyage

Discover the lkesser-known teasures of the canary Islands and enjoy a tour of the very best of Morocco

These Cruise Guides are available to download from our website www.voyagestoantiquity.com

AWARDS

2015 VOYAGES TO ANTIQUITY BEST FOR ENRICHMENT