Greek Isles & Mediterranean Cruise - Itinerary
Ancient history and stunning scenery come to life in the marvelous Mediterranean - Greek and Roman ruins that defy imagination, ancient villages set on cobalt seas, incomparable cities like romantic Venice, and picturesque vineyards and sun-kissed beaches. From Rome, home to a treasure of incredible landmarks such as the Colosseum and the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel, sail to the principality of Monte Carlo – ruled by the Grimaldis for over 500 years – and then on to Italy’s alluring Amalfi Coast.
Pause on delightful Santorini for stunning views of the Aegean Sea in every direction, and then visit one of the world’s greatest ancient sites – the ruins of Ephesus. Explore the excavations of magnificent public buildings and envision life here as many as 30 centuries ago. On Mykonos, take in the picturesque and colorful beaches and buildings; in Athens climb atop the majestic Acropolis and gaze upon Mars Hill. And in Venice, lose yourself among the spellbinding maze of canals, alleys, and piazzas.
The sequence of touring and days may be altered to adjust to religious holidays, special closings of sites, air schedule changes, etc. Hotels listed subject to availability. Meal inclusions may vary by departure.
Day 1 - Depart USA (meals aloft)
Day 2 - Arrive Rome, embark PM
We arrive this morning in the "Eternal City" of Rome and transfer to the pier to board our cruise ship, the Ruby Princess. We sail early this evening. (B,L,D)
Day 3 - Monte Carlo, Monaco, 7:00 a.m./6:00 p.m.
In Old Monaco, the principality ruled by the Grimaldis for over 500 years, enjoy great shopping, royal romance, and one of the world's most picturesque settings on the French Riviera. (B,L,D)
Day 4 - Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Italy 6:00 a.m./6:00 p.m.
The spirits of Michelangelo and Da Vinci pervade the museums of Renaissance Florence. In Pisa, a certain Leaning Tower is the primary draw. (B,L,D)
Day 5 - Naples/Capri, Italy, 8:00 a.m./7:00 p.m.
From Naples, there are many ways to spend the day - at the ruins of Pompeii, on the arresting island of Capri, or traveling along the dazzling Amalfi Coast. (B,L,D)
Day 6 - At Sea
Participate in your choice of on-board activities: browse the world-class art collection, shop in duty-free boutiques, relax in a hot tub, sun yourself on the deck with a book from the ship's library, exercise in a state-of-the-art gym, or pamper yourself in the spa; and at mealtimes take advantage of the ship's variety of dining options. (B,L,D)
Day 7 - Santorini, Greece, 8:00 a.m./9:00 p.m.
From atop the rim of an ancient volcanic caldera, the delightful town of Santorini offers stunning Aegean views in every direction. (B,L,D)
Day 8 - Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey, 8:00 a.m./5:00 p.m.
From the quaint shops and markets of the port of Kusadasi, you're bound for one of the world's greatest ancient sites - the ruins of the city of Ephesus. (B,L,D)
Day 9 - Mykonos, Greece, 1:00 a.m./6:00 p.m.
With its whitewashed buildings, lively tavernas and beaches along the cobalt Mediterranean Sea, this may be the quintessential Greek isle. (B,L,D)
Day 10 - Athens (Piraeus), Greece, 6:00 a.m./5:45 p.m.
Few destinations can claim the 7,000 years of history that Athens can. You'll find it on display everywhere you walk, from the renowned Acropolis to the historic Plaka. (B,L,D)
Day 11 - Katakolon (Olympia), Greece, 8:00 a.m./5:00 p.m.
The ancient ruins in Olympia are among Greece's most popular places. Here you'll find the site of the first Olympic games, including the famed Stadium and Hippodrome. (B,L,D)
Day 12 - Corfu, Greece, 7:00 a.m./5:00 p.m.
Wide boulevards, sidewalk cafes, sparkling harbors and Venetian architecture welcome you to this anomoly of a Greek isle. (B,L,D)
Day 13 - At Sea (B,L,D)
Day 14 - Arrive Venice, disembark a.m./Return USA
Arrive in Venice, home to spellbinding canals, alleys, and piazzas. Upon arrival we transfer to the airport for our return flight home. (B, meals aloft)
