A Voyage through the Middle Sea Cruise Guide

CRUISE GUIDE

A VOYAGE THROUGH THE MIDDLE SEA

Sail through the heart of the Mediterranean on a maiden cruise exploring the springtime vistas and ancient histories of Greece, Malta, Sicily, Spain and Portugal, all the way from Athens to Madeira.

April 17 – May 3, 2017 Athens to Funchal

INTRODUCTION

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.

We look forward to welcoming you on board.

2017

PORT

APR 17

ATHENS, Greece Embark Aegean Odyssey in Piraeus

APR 18

SANTORINI, Greece

8.00am

6.00pm

APR 19

HERAKLION, Crete

7.00am

Midnight

APR 20

SOUDA (Chania), Crete

8.00am

6.00pm

APR 21

At Sea

APR 22

VALLETTA, Malta

8.00am

8.00pm

APR 23

CATANIA, Sicily

7.00am

5.00pm

APR 24

PALERMO, Sicily

8.00am

10.00pm

APR 25

TRAPANI, Sicily

7.00am

5.00pm

APR 26

At Sea

APR 27

At Sea

APR 28

MALAGA, Spain

8.00am

Midnight

APR 29

CADIZ, Spain

2.00pm

8.00pm

APR 30

PORTIMAO, Portugal

7.00am

2.00pm

MAY 1

At Sea

MAY 2

FUNCHAL, Madeira

MAY 3

FUNCHAL, Madeira Disembark Aegean Odyssey

O Overnight stay in port

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Historian John Julius Norwich’s The Middle Sea is the inspiration for this epic Mediterranean journey, featuring maiden visits to Catania and Portimao, with guided excursions included in the price for every port of call. Along the way you will be taken back in time to the Minoan settlements of Akrotiri in Santorini and Knossos in Crete, as well as the Maltese capital.

AEG170417A ARRIVE

DEPART

8.00pm

Enjoy a walking tour of Sicily’s Greek and Roman ruins, including the Roman amphitheatre of Augustus and the 2nd-century BC Altar of Hieron – as well as the Palatine

PORTUGAL Portimao

Ship at anchor

8.00am

Overnight

SPAIN Cadiz Malaga

O

MADEIRA

VOYAGE HIGHLIGHTS Chapel and Cathedral in Palermo. Explore Chania’s Old Town on foot and learn all about the city’s history by visiting architectural legacies from its turbulent history.

Take a panoramic drive to some of the outstanding sites of Malaga and Moorish Spain, before sampling sherry in Jerez. Savour the breathtaking vistas of the Sagres Peninsula and the Algarve in Portugal, then arrive in Funchal, the capital of Madeira, for a sightseeing tour of Winston Churchill’s favourite retreat, Camara de Lobos.

• Visit the Minoan settlements of Akrotiri and Knossos • Three ports of call in Sicily – Catania, Palermo and Trapani • New ports of call – Catania and Portimao • Overnight on board in Funchal, Madeira • Visit the Madeira Botanical Gardens during the Madeira Flower Festival

• Opportunity to visit the Alhambra in Granada and the site of Hellenic Selinunte in Sicily GREECE

ATHENS

Palermo

SICILY

Trapani

Catania

Valletta

MALTA

• Guest lecturers include John Julius Norwich – famous historian and travel writer – and Professor Sandy Primrose – biotechnologist

Santorini Heraklion Souda (Chania)

Santorini

Palermo

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APRIL 17 ATHENS, GREECE

YOUR CRUISE DAY BY DAY

Embark Aegean Odyssey in Piraeus, the port of Athens, this afternoon. Evening sailing.

APRIL 18 SANTORINI, GREEK ISLANDS A choice of morning tours: Either the archaeological site of Akrotiri, which features a wealth of material dating back to the Bronze Age, housed in an amazingly well-preserved city of houses, streets, squares and workshops, giving a superb insight into the ancient history of Santorini. Afterwards you will drive through the countryside to the scenic capital of Fira.

Alternatively, Santorini’s Villages will take you to the dramatic settlement of Oia, perched on the edge of the caldera overlooking the sea, followed by the old capital of Pyrgos and its large Venetian castle. Then in Fira, you may ride the cable car or stroll around the town.

The afternoon will be free, or you may combine both tours on an optional full day island tour including lunch ashore.

APRIL 19 HERAKLION, CRETE

Chania, Crete

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Morning guided tour of The Palace of Knossos. Constructed around 1900 BC, legend has it that this was the home of King Minos, whose wife, according to mythology, gave birth to a half-man, half-bull Minotaur that lurked in the palace’s labyrinth. An earthquake destroyed the original complex, but today everything has been reconstructed with meticulous care, so visitors can visualise the palace as it once was. You will also visit the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, one of the greatest museums in Greece and the best in the world for Minoan art.

Afternoon and evening at leisure. Midnight sailing.

APRIL 20 CHANIA, CRETE

APRIL 23 CATANIA, SICILY

Morning tour of Chania’s Highlights, beginning at a site of enormous national importance for the people of Crete and of Greece: the tomb of the island’s national hero, Eleftherios Venizelos, making it a place of pilgrimage to this day. Then transfer to Chania for a look around the archaeological museum inside the Venetian church of San Francesco, where artefacts include western-Cretan pottery, sculpture and mosaics, and coins dating from the Neolithic period. Finally, enjoy a leisurely tour around the old town and market, with an opportunity to explore at leisure in the afternoon before returning to Aegean Odyssey for an early evening sailing.

Choice of half-day included sightseeing tours in the morning followed by an optional tour to Mount Etna.

CRUISE VIDEO

Syracuse is home to the archaeological park of Neapolis, a 16,000 capacity Roman amphitheatre alongside other sites of antiquity, including the Altar of Hieron and the Greek Theatre.

We will also explore the subterranian latomie – man-made vaults carved by ancient quarrymen – and visit Ortygia for a walking tour of the Piazza Archimede, Cathedral and Arethusa Spring.

Scan the QR code below to go straight to the online video for this cruise*

APRIL 21 AT SEA Enjoy Aegean Odyssey’s on-board facilities as you cruise across the Mediterranean. Lectures and activities also available.

APRIL 22 VALLETTA, MALTA After a spectacular breakfast arrival into the Grand Harbour of Valletta, this tour of Valletta & Mdina begins with a walk through the city to the luxuriously furnished Grand Master’s Palace, before continuing on foot to St John’s Co-Cathedral to admire the magnificent Baroque interior and Caravaggio’s masterpiece, The Beheading of St John.

We will then drive to Mdina, Malta’s former capital. Around 60AD, the Apostle Paul was shipwrecked nearby and lived in a cave near Mdina. He converted the Roman governor, Publius, to Christianity, and we will visit St Paul’s Cathedral, built, according to tradition, on the site where Publius once lived.

Alternatively, Taormina has a delightful medieval character with plenty to explore, including the Palazzo Corvaia and the ancient Greek theatre, the second largest of its kind in Sicily.

Then stroll along the Corso Umberto, the main street of Taormina, before a short sightseeing drive through Via Etnea, Villa Bellini and Piazza Stesicoro.

* UK version

Mount Etna’s summit isn’t accessible by road, but this optional excursion to the Silvestri craters, some 1300m beneath the peak, offers an equally breathtaking experience. After Mount Etna there will be a brief stop at Piazza Duomo in Catania for a visit to the Cathedral.

APRIL 24 PALERMO, SICILY Choice of included morning sightseeing: The Palatine Chapel, built during the 1130s and 1140s, is a miraculous fusion of Latin, Byzantine and Arabic architectural design, which we will visit first. Then Palermo Cathedral, site of the porphyry tomb of Roger II and the silver urn containing St Rosalia’s remains.

Valletta

The afternoon will be at leisure in Valletta.

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DESTINATION TIP SICILY As Roberta Gangi has documented in Sicilian culinary articles, historical records suggest that Sicilian gelato dates to when the Ancient Greeks and Romans brought snow down from Mt. Etna to be mixed and flavoured with local berries, honey and nuts.

An aristocratic treat!

Our Shore Excursion Team recommend the gelato stand as you come down from the Greek theatre in Taormina, or why not wander through the streets of Trapani during the free afternoon and sample some from the numerous gelaterias there?

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Alternatively, Monreale Cathedral is considered by many to be the most beautiful Norman church in Italy. The exterior may have the look of an austere fortress, but inside offers visions of the divine. This tour also includes the Benedictine cloisters, a magnificent synthesis of Romanesque and Arab architecture.

Then enjoy some free time before returning to the ship, or take an optional full afternoon excursion along the coast to Cefalu.

APRIL 25 TRAPANI, SICILY Choice of morning sightseeing tours: Segesta is the site of a stunning Greek theatre and 5thcentury BC Doric temple. This archaeological jewel is in an extraordinary state of preservation and makes a superb sight amidst its surroundings.

Erice is an exquisite hill-top Norman town and castle, although the walls encircling it incorporate original Phoenician fortifications. This tour will take you along some winding, cobblestone streets, with free time to enjoy some panoramic views of Trapani and the Egadi Islands.

Or enjoy an optional full day tour to Selinunte, a site of Hellenic antiquity that enjoys a particularly dramatic setting overlooking the sea and provides a superb illustration of the synthesis of Greek and Phoenician culture. This is followed by the quaint town of Marsala, where a walking tour of the town includes a visit to the cellars of a 19th-century farm for some tasting of local Marsala wines.

APRIL 26/27 AT SEA Enjoy some lectures from our expert guest speakers, visit the Athena Spa and Gym, or relax by the pool.

APRIL 28 MALAGA, SPAIN A morning tour of Panoramic Malaga and Picasso Museum includes a guided drive through the town to the famous Gibralfaro Castle and the Picasso Museum, home to over 200 works by the master – and don’t miss the archaeological remains of the city’s Phoenician origins in the basement.

Or take a full day optional tour, including lunch, to Granada and Alhambra Palace, one of the outstanding symbols of Moorish heritage in Spain. This tour will also visit the “Generalife” summer palace, built for the Sultans of Granada.

APRIL 29 CADIZ, SPAIN After docking at lunchtime, there will be an afternoon visit to Jerez for a sherry tasting tour of the Bodega Gonzalez Byass cellars, where you will be invited to sample various types of the fortified wine.

Or alternatively, take a city tour of Cadiz, including the old quarter, tobacco factory, Santo Domingo Church, old Royal Prison and Cathedral, followed by the ancient Phoenician port of La Caleta and the Santa Catalina Fortress. The tour will then finish in the Plaza de Espana with its massive monument commemorating the meeting of the Cortes, Spain’s first representative national assembly.

Granada

APRIL 30 PORTIMAO, PORTUGAL Morning arrival in Portimao with a choice of included tours: At Sagres & the Western Edge, look out from Sagres Point across the wide expanse of the Atlantic Ocean, once considered the edge of the world. Then tour Henry the Navigator’s unique fortress, before being transferred to the lively coastal town of Lagos on the Algarve, renowned for its excellent mix of culture, beaches and destinations, including the Slave Market Museum, site of the first such market in Europe.

Or take a guided tour through Portimao’s Highlights,

including the 15th-century Church of Our Lady of Conception, the 17th-century Jesuit College, and the museum housed inside a former fish-canning factory, which recreates the cities fishing heritage alongside earlier periods.

Afternoon and evening at sea.

MAY 1 AT SEA Another day at sea to enjoy the spring sunshine, or take advantage of Aegean Odyssey’s on-board facilities and programme of lectures and activities.

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MAY 2 FUNCHAL, MADEIRA Choice of morning sightseeing: Either Scenic Drive & Wine Tasting taking you to some of the island’s most beautiful destinations, beginning with Cabo Girao, the second highest sea cliff in the world, followed by a guided tour through the picturesque fishing village of Camara de Lobos. You will then have the opportunity to enjoy some Madeira wine tasting at the Old Blandy Wine Lodge.

Funchal

Or Madeira’s Culture & Gardens. Madeira’s Botanical Gardens are world-renowned for their rich and endemic flora.

Here you will encounter a fascinating collection of more than 2,500 plant species, before joining a guided tour through Funchal’s old town to the Mercado dos Lavradores. The living tradition and folklore of this vibrant market, where one can still find sellers wearing traditional Madeira costumes, makes it a vivid and colourful place. Your final stop will be a traditional Madeiran embroidery factory to observe how this authentic embroidery is carefully stitched by hand.

Alternatively take an optional full day tour of Western Madeira, including lunch.

MAY 3 FUNCHAL, MADEIRA Disembark Aegean Odyssey after breakfast this morning.

For those passengers who have opted for the pre-cruise hotel stay in Athens, please go online to www.voyagestoantiquity.com for more information.

Full itinerary details will be sent with your final documents.

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Madeira

INCLUDED HIGHLIGHTS & SHORE EXCURSIONS SANTORINI

MALAGA

Santorini’s Villages

Panoramic Malaga & Picasso Museum

The Archaeological Site of Akrotiri

CADIZ

HERAKLION

Cadiz & Cathedral

Knossos Palace & Heraklion Archaeological Museum

Jerez and Sherry Tasting

CHANIA Chania Highlights VALLETTA Valletta & MDina

PORTIMAO Highlights of Portimao Sagres & the Western Edge FUNCHAL Madeira’s Culture & Gardens

CATANIA Syracuse Taormina PALERMO The Palatine Chapel & Cathedral Monreale TRAPANI Segesta Erice

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. 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.

On this voyage, it is worth noting that there are several archaeological sites visited and therefore lots of uneven ground/ steps can be expected. Many of the excursions involve walks through historical towns and villages where cobbled streets are common. During an excursion when there is a significant amount of walking involved, the walking symbol has been indicated.

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

This itinerary does not feature a ‘very difficult’ excursion but passengers should be aware that all excursions in Santorini feature a long walk though Fira village followed by a cable car journey to return to the ship via tender.

KEY TO SYMBOLS Extensive walking Cobbled streets Archaeological ground Significant steps Uphill sections Includes a boat ride Cable car Bustling streets Winding roads Lunch included

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OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS SANTORINI, Greece Akrotiri and Oia - $65 Full Day This tour begins with a scenic drive to the village of Oia, with its whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches and shops carved in the cliffs, followed by the Minoan settlement of Akrotiri where the excavations give an insight into the foundation of Greek civilisation. The old capital of Pyrgos is followed by Fira, where you will be able to return to the ship by cable car. Note: The price of this excursion already allows a credit for the unused half day excursion.

CATANIA, Sicily Mt. Etna - $35 - Half Day

Cefalu

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Mount Etna’s summit isn’t accessible by road, but this excursion to the Silvestri craters, some 1300m beneath the peak, offers an equally breathtaking experience. These huge red dents on Etna’s slopes were formed during the eruption of 1892 and are amongst the largest of their kind directly accessible to vehicles, making them one of the major attractions on this majestic mountain. After Mount Etna there will be a brief stop at Piazza Duomo for a visit to the Cathedral and a stroll around Catania.

PALERMO, Sicily

MALAGA, Spain

Cefalu - $35 - Half Day

Granada and Alhambra Palace $89 - Full Day

When King Roger II seemed faced with shipwreck, he is said to have vowed to build a splendid cathedral should he survive. Survive he did, and the NormanArab structure he built to keep his promise beautifully expresses the spirit of his reign, making it a highlight of this tour to the charming hill town of Cefalu. Looking from high in the Byzantine apex of the church is the 12th-century gold mosaic of Christ Pantocrator, one of the greatest representations of Christ in art.

TRAPANI, Sicily

A tour taking you through the wonderful landscape of Andalusia to one of the most magical places in the world and the most outstanding symbol of Moorish heritage in Spain, the Alhambra Palace, begun in AD 889. This is followed by the Generalife, built as the summer paradise for the Sultans of Granada, with terraces, grottoes, flowerbeds and fountains reflecting all the glamour of its Moorish inhabitants. Note: The price of this excursion already allows a credit for the unused half day excursion.

Selinunte and Marsala - $49 - Full Day

FUNCHAL, Madeira

A site of Hellenic antiquity, Selinunte enjoys a dramatic setting overlooking the sea and provides a superb illustration of the synthesis of Greek and Phoenician culture. A visit here is followed by a walking tour of Marsala and the cellars of a 19th-century farm for some tasting of Marsala wines. The return drive will then take us along the “Saline� coastal nature reserve. Note: The price of this excursion already allows a credit for the unused half day excursion.

Western Madeira - $29 This panoramic island tour takes you to the picturesque village of Camara de Lobos, a favourite of Sir Winston Churchill, and Cabo Girao, the second highest sea cliff in the world, with other sights including Ribeira Brava, Sao Vicente via Encumeada and the village of Porto Moniz, famous for its rock pools. After driving the roof of Madeira, wind down in the seaside village of Ponta do Sol. Note: The price of this excursion already allows a credit for the unused half day excursion.

Granada

Cabo Girao

All prices are in US$

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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 through the Middle Sea.

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John Julius Norwich Historian/Travel Writer John Julius, 2nd Viscount Norwich, is a historian, broadcaster, journalist and humourist. Joining the British Foreign Service after studying at New College, Oxford, John Julius served in Yugoslavia and Lebanon, and as a member of the British delegation to the Disarmament Conference in Geneva. In 1964, Lord Norwich left the diplomatic service to become a writer: his publications include The Normans in Sicily, a three-volume history of Byzantium and A History of Venice.

This career move was a stroke of good fortune for Voyages to Antiquity as John Julius’s wonderful history of the Mediterranean, The Middle Sea, inspired the founder of Voyages to Antiquity to offer our unique brand of cruising in this fascinating region. Lord Norwich is also Chairman of Colnaghi, the oldest fine art dealers in London, amongst many other prestigious appointments in the world of fine art and music. He was appointed Commander of the Royal Victorian Order in 1993 and we are delighted to welcome him on board for this special cruise.

Professor Sandy Primrose MBE Biotechnologist Sandy Primrose is a biologist by training and has degrees from the University of Strathclyde and the University of California. After undertaking research in Australia, he returned to the UK and took up lecturing positions at the universities of Edinburgh and Warwick.

In 1981, he made a career change by moving to industry where he held senior management positions, first in a pharmaceutical company and later in diagnostic, food and environmental companies. After 20 years in industry he made another career change and started working as a biotechnology consultant as well as being an adviser to various UK governmental organisations (Health Protection Agency, Food Standards Agency, and Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs).

He was awarded an MBE in 2010 for services to the Food Standards Agency.

Sandy still consults widely as well as being Chairman of a number of small, high technology companies. He has

written a number of very popular scientific textbooks but is particularly proud of his recent publication entitled Plants, Poisons and Personalities which is aimed at lay audiences. Sandy’s passion is gardening and the halfacre garden of his house between London and Oxford is filled with unusual trees and shrubs.

Over the years he has shown many groups round his garden and when he does so he tells them the stories behind the plants that he grows. These stories, and his experiences in industry, form the basis of his entertaining cruise lectures that cover topics in gardening, uses of plants, plant history and plant conservation.

Justin Marozzi Historian/Travel Writer Justin Marozzi is a renowned travel writer, historian, journalist and communications advisor. After working in the BBC World Service, he joined the Financial Times as a foreign correspondent in Manila, where he also wrote for The Economist, shared a Winnebago with Imelda Marcos, a helicopter with the Philippine president and his mistress and a curry with Aung San Suu Kyi whilst under house arrest in Rangoon.

of the Libyan Sahara. His second book, Tamerlane: Sword of Islam, Conqueror of the World, launched in Baghdad in 2004, was the best-selling biography of the world’s greatest Islamic conqueror. The Sunday Telegraph described Justin as “the most brilliant of the new generation of travelwriter-historians”. Justin’s latest book Baghdad: City of Peace, City of Blood won the Royal Society of Literature’s 2015 Ondaatje Prize.

“The lectures were exceptional, and added so much more to our site visits - you

Revd. Dr. Daniel Muñoz

could say they made

Protestant Faculty of Theology of Madrid (Spain), Fliedner Foundation Daniel Muñoz is an Anglican priest, theologian and church historian. He is currently lecturer of Church History at the Protestant Faculty of Theology of Madrid, as well as chaplain and programme director of the Los Olivos Anglican Retreat Centre in Granada. Over the past three years, Daniel has given invited conference papers and lectures in Oxford (Pusey House), Salisbury (Sarum College), Vaughan Park, Auckland (New Zealand) and Madrid (Universidad Complutense), on art history, religion and culture. He has also lectured for NADFAS on The three faiths of the Book in mediaeval Al’Andalus and on Spanish Golden Age painting and poetry.

each destination come alive” M.W - Australia

His first book, South from Barbary, was an account of a 1,200-mile expedition by camel along the slave routes

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

ISBN: 9781781855027, 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.

Dr Matthew Nicholls 30-Second Ancient Greece

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 below.

Cathy Gere Knossos

John Julius Norwich (Lecturing on board) The Middle Sea ISBN: 9781844133086, Paperback

Simon Price and Peter Thonemann The Birth of Classical Europe: A History from Troy to Augustine

James H McGregor Athens ISBN: 9780674047723, Hardback

Sofka Zinovieff Eurydice Street ISBN: 9781862077508, Paperback

ISBN: 9780140274851, Paperback

Eric Newby On the Shores of the Mediterranean ISBN: 9780007367917, Paperback

ISBN: 9781782403883, Paperback

ISBN: 9780226289540, Paperback

Leonard Cottrell The Bull of Minos ISBN: 9781845119423, Paperback

NON-FICTION

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Nigel Spivey Classical Civilization: Greeks & Romans in 10 Chapters

James Davidson Courtesans and Fishcakes ISBN: 9780006863434, Paperback

Rodney Castleden Minoan Life in Bronze Age Crete

Peter Robb Midnight in Sicily ISBN: 9780099595809, Paperback

Daphne Phelps A House in Sicily ISBN: 9781860496486, Paperback

David Gilmour The Last Leopard ISBN: 9780955010514, Paperback

Jan Morris Spain ISBN: 9780571241767, Paperback

Simon Barton A History of Spain

ISBN: 9780415088336, Paperback

ISBN: 9780230200128, Paperback

John Julius Norwich Sicily: A Short History, from the Greeks to Cosa Nostra

John Hooper The New Spaniards

ISBN: 9781848548954 Hardback

Talia Baiocchi Sherry

Horatio Clare Sicily Through Writers Eyes ISBN: 9780907871941, Hardback

ISBN: 9780141016092, Paperback

ISBN: 9781909342989, Paperback

Leonie V. Hicks A Short History of the Normans

Roger Crowley Conquerors: How Portugal Forged the first Global Empire

ISBN: 9781780762128 Paperback

ISBN: 9780571290901, Paperback

Barry Hatton The Portuguese: A Modern History

Apostolos Doxiadis Uncle Petro and Goldbaach’s Conjecture

ISBN: 9781904955771, Paperback

ISBN: 9781847493989, Paperback

Alex Liddell Madeira

Leonardo Sciasia The Wine Dark Sea

ISBN: 9781849043342, Paperback

ISBN: 9781847089281, Paperback

MAPS, GUIDES & REFERENCE Title

Publisher

ISBN Number

Mediterranean Cruise Map

Freytag and Berndt

9783707912906

Cruise Guide to Europe

Eyewitness Travel Guide

9781409370222

Athens

Marco Polo Pocket Guide with Map

9783829707077

Athens: The Hidden Gems

-

9781326057336

ISBN: 9781925228441, Paperback

Crete

Marco Polo Pocket Guide with Map

9783829706827

Yann Martel The High Mountains of Portugal

Malta

Marco Polo Pocket Guide

9783829706711

Sicily

Eyewitness Travel Guide

9781409370215

ISBN: 9781472223203, Paperback

Sicily

Blue Guide

9781905131549

Leo Kanaris Codename Xenophon

Seville & Andalusia

Eyewitness Travel Guide

9780241189245

Portugal

Eyewitness Travel Guide

9780241208281

Justin Morozzi (Lecturing on Board) The Man who Invented History ISBN: 9780719567131, Paperback

Simon Gough The White Goddess: An Encounter

Tom Holland

ISBN: 9780957185357, Paperback

ISBN: 9780140455397, Paperback

Victor del Arbol The Heart Tastes Bitter

Herodotus, The Histories Collins Bird Guide: Britain and Europe ISBN: 9780007268146, Paperback

FICTION

ISBN: 9781847089281, Paperback

Victoria Hislop Cartes Postales from Greece

ISBN: 9781846973130, Paperback

Giuseppe Di Piazza The Four Corners of Palermo ISBN: 9781590516652, Paperback

Syracuse

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AEGEAN ODYSSEY

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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.

www.voyagestoantiquity.com 19

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

412

441

463

INTERNET

408 409 410

412 411

534 439

538 HAIR DRESSER

408 407

••

• 423

RECEPTION

547 545

419

425

728

818

821

• •

• • 535

518 421 522

534

RECEPTION

825

821

530527 528

532 533

520

725

• •

813 814

527 528 529 531

417

728

•

811 812

813

524 523 524 521 522 526 ▲ 525 ▲ 526 ▲

414 ▲

413 415

725

729 812 731 814 733

• •

• 811

723

520519 518 517

523

533

721

• •

POOL

719

517

525 ▲

529

712 • 710 •

709

716

726 •

POOL

521

•

714

711

719

519

726 •

ION

AMBASSADOR LOUNGE

• •

LIDO BAR

•

709

•

LIDO BAR

AMBASSADOR LOUNGE

409 410

•

708

514

513 516

411

•

707

510

515514

• •

706

810 •

809 •

704

705

509 512 511510 509 512 513 516

702

724 •

806 808

703

706

• •

805 807

704

705

712 • 710 •

806 808

810 • 809 •

805 807

703

•

804

803

701

724 •

804

803

515

702

■

701

407

508

■

802

801

• •

511 802

801

504 505 506

507508

406

■

503 504 505 506

■

503 507

404#

406405

•

BRIDGE

•

403 BRIDGE

466 470

MARCO POLO RESTAURANT

MARCO POLO RESTAURANT

M

STANDARD INSIDE

L

PREMIUM INSIDE

K

PREMIUM INSIDE

J

STANDARD OUTSIDE

I*

STANDARD OUTSIDE

H

PREMIUM OUTSIDE

G

PREMIUM OUTSIDE

F

DELUXE STATEROOM OUTSIDE

E

DELUXE STATEROOM OUTSIDE

D

DELUXE STATEROOM BALCONY

C

DELUXE STATEROOM BALCONY

B

JJUNIOR SUITE BALCONY

A

OWNER'S SUITE BALCONY

Single Accomodation MEDICAL

MEDICAL

MM

STANDARD INSIDE

JJ

STANDARD OUTSIDE

II*

STANDARD OUTSIDE

HH*

PREMIUM OUTSIDE

GG*

PREMIUM OUTSIDE

EE

DELUXE STATEROOM OUTSIDE

CC

DELUXE STATEROOM BALCONY

*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

Cadiz

EXCURSION INFORMATION Your cruise includes shore excursions in all 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 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 alongside each tour description to get a good idea of the level of walking that may be involved.

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.

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 Segesta 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 Greek gold in Minoan designs to azulejo tiles and cork products in 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.

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

VISITS TO SITES/MUSEUMS 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.

Note: For passengers on Grand Voyages, availability of included and optional excursions in Funchal and Seville will be advised on board.

CLOTHING TIPS

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Although high summer temperatures are not expected at this time of year, sunhats and sunscreen are recommended when participating in excursions. Sturdy walking shoes are recommended for most of our excursions, especially when visiting archaeological sites.

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.

For passengers participating in excursions to Mt. Etna, closed shoes are highly recommended, as is a windproof jacket/extra layer as temperatures are significantly cooler.

This extra layer/windproof jacket also applies for Erice for the same reason.

For the following excursions respectful dress is required as sites of a religious nature are included: Valletta and MDina, Palatine Chapel and Cathedral, Monreale, Cefalu, Cadiz and Cathedral, Portimao Highlights. 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.

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.

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

CLA S SICAL

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

October 5, 2017

ANCIENT

GREECE &

GREECE,

AEGEAN

SICILY &

ISLANDS

SPAIN

ANDALUSIAN

September 27, 2017

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

October 16, 2017

DALMATIA

July 24, 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

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

October 29, 2017

SEVILLE,

SPAIN &

MOROCCO

MOROCCO

& CANARY ISLANDS

November 9, 2017

THE MULTI-AWARD WINNING CRUISE LINE WINNER

AWARDS

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

2015 Sail across the southern Mediterranean to the fascinating island of Sicily and the sites of Moorish Spain

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

VOYAGES TO ANTIQUITY BEST FOR ENRICHMENT