Mediterranean & Dalmatian Treasures

Today you’ll arrive in Athens where you have 2 nights pre-cruise accommodation to explore the city.

Climb up the magnificent Acropolis and stand in awe of the Parthenon, the beautiful temples and the view over Athens stretched out before you. See city highlights including the new and old Olympic stadiums. Journey to Cape Sounion and the temple of Poseidon overlooking the sea, or visit ancient Corinth and the narrow Corinth Canal cut through miles of solid rock.

Today a private transfer will take you from your hotel to the port in Piraeus to join your cruise.

As you traverse the azure waters of the Mediterranean, immerse yourself in a world of unparalleled comfort and elegance. Enjoy the sun-kissed serenity on spacious decks, pamper yourself with rejuvenating spa treatments, or savour gourmet cuisine crafted by world-renowned chefs. Whether lounging by the pristine poolside, attending enriching lectures, or exploring the ship’s exquisite art collection, each moment aboard Marina promises a blend of sophistication and relaxation.

Sometime around 300 A.D., Roman Emperor Diocletian built his retirement palace on one of the loveliest spots on the Adriatic Sea. Today his palace has become a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the heart of Split, the city that grew up around it. Split is now Croatia’s second largest city, and much of it sits on a beautiful peninsula on the island of Ciovo, a jewel on the Dalmatian Coast. Many intriguing relics from the Roman, Greek colonial and Medieval periods can be found in Split’s archaeological museum, which was founded in 1820, making it Croatia’s oldest museum. One of the top outdoor attractions is the green oasis of Marjan Forest Park with its Split Zoo. There are also plenty of fine beaches nearby.

Kotor is a beautiful walled medieval city of twisting, pink-paved streets, markets and architecture reflecting Byzantine to Venetian influences. Stroll through the compact old town, admire the impressive walls and tour the imposing St. Tryphon Cathedral, consecrated in 1166.

Immerse yourself in this island of glorious scenery and beaches, serene monasteries, beautiful palaces, traditional mountain towns and Corfu’s lovely old Venetian quarter. Or visit the ornate Achilleion Palace, built by Empress Sissi of Austria and filled with dramatic sculptures of the Greek hero Achilles.

Visit ancient Olympia where the Olympic Games began in 776 B.C. and stroll around this deserted sanctuary, admiring the temples, altars and treasuries, and stand on the ground where ancient athletes practiced before competing. Or enjoy a pleasant drive through the countryside past quaint villages to a local vineyard and sample the wines, local cheeses and other foods.

Visit beautiful Taormina and marvel at its famous Greek theatre and the stunning view of Mount Etna. Explore lovely medieval Messina with its historic churches and the cathedral where it is rumoured Richard the Lionheart worshipped in 1190. Or discover ancient Tyndaris, founded in 396 B.C., with its fine mosaics, Roman baths and impressive theatre overlooking the sea.

Discover the myriad of cultural layers of Malta, from its amazing prehistoric temples at Tarxien to beautiful walled medieval Medina, nearby Rabat, and Marsaxlokk, a colourful fishing village. Admire the stunning scenery and wander through imposing churches and down the streets of fortified towns where the Knights of St. John once held sway.

Meander through Tunis’ opulent, historic medina with its winding alleys and souks. Visit the superb Bardo Museum with its spectacular Roman mosaics or the lovely whitewashed village of Sidi Bou Saïd, perched on a cliff above the sea, a charming spot of cobbled streets, flower-filled courtyards and ornate window grills painted deep blue.

Embrace the luxury of a sea day aboard Oceania’s Marina, where every moment is an invitation to unwind and indulge in a wealth of enriching activities. Dive into a world of cultural exploration with enriching lectures by esteemed guest speakers or enhance your culinary skills with cooking demonstrations led by expert chefs. For those seeking relaxation, indulge in pampering treatments at the Canyon Ranch SpaClub®, where serenity meets rejuvenation. Lounge by the sparkling pool with a refreshing drink in hand, or immerse yourself in a good book from the well-stocked library. As the sun sets, savour exquisite dining experiences at a variety of gourmet restaurants, each offering meticulously prepared dishes using the finest ingredients. Enjoy live music performances, theatrical shows, or simply unwind with a nightcap under the starlit sky.

Explore this beautiful island beginning with the magnificent Seo Cathedral and Bellver Castle. See the windmills and impressive manor house in the verdant countryside. Discover the amazing natural wonders in the Drach Caves. And for romance, visit the former Carthusian monastery in Valldemosa, where George Sand and Chopin spent a winter.

Your cruise ends today. You have 2 nights accommodation in Barcelona to explore the city.

Visit the magnificent Gothic cathedral and the amazing La Sagrada Familia, Antoni Gaudí’s unfinished masterpiece. Enjoy the lovely Montjuic Gardens, Gaudí’s other fabulous structures, the charming squares of the old Gothic Quarter and the Ramblas, Barcelona’s famed downtown promenade. Or visit beautiful Montserrat and its monastery in a breathtaking setting high in the mountains.

Your journey ends today. Interested in extending your holiday? Ask us about our amazing range of touring and accommodation packages.