Europe Cruises: Excursions

Leaving the pier, you’ll drive to Trogir which is situated on a small island and squeezed in between the mainland and the larger island of Ciovo. Except for the green parks the entire island is occupied by spectacular constructions of stone-houses, palaces, churches, monasteries, towers, walls etc. You’ll visit the main attraction in Trogir - the Cathedral of St. Lawrence which is probably the finest example of Sacral architecture in Croatia. The unusual construction with three naves and three semi circular apses dominates the whole town. The main portal is world-famous and was carved by the local artist Radovan in the 13th century. Other fine buildings that will be viewed are the Town Loggia, the Town Hall and the Cipiko Palace. The entire town is like an open-air museum so just strolling through narrow streets will be an unforgettable experience. Continue on to acquaint yourself with a typical Dalmatian village, its inhabitants and traditions. You’ll drive inland to the Primosten area to the small picturesque village of Burni. On the way you’ll pass interesting landscapes and see the impressive transformations of this rocky terrain into an oasis of fertile, hospitable living. After visiting village homes (some of which are several hundred years old) enjoy a refreshing rest in the shade of surrounding trees, while your hosts in national costume serve local specialties and homemade wine. You’ll be entertained with local songs and music to complete your enjoyment of this genuinely unique tour. Note: During summer months expect extreme heat, crowded venues and long lines. We recommend that you dress in layers, wear comfortable shoes, a hat, sunglasses and bring bottled water. Guests must be able to walk approximately 0.65 mile over various surfaces with 30-45 steps. Space is limited but a minimum is required to operate. Time permitting; guests will have approximately 40 minutes for shopping and browsing. Tour order may vary. less

Enjoy a very scenic and relaxing excursion, experiencing Italy's most famous coastline by motor launch, with minimal walking involved, and time within the beautiful village of Sorrento. After an approximate one-hour drive by coach, you will arrive to the town of Salerno, located at the very end of the Amalfi Coast. There you'll board a private motor launch and enjoy a 45-minute cruise, viewing the Dolomitic cliffs, which at many points, tower perpendicularly out of the sea and have been sculpted by nature into fantastic shapes. Amalfi is situated at the mouth of a deep gorge along the coast. Learn how this was a major shipping port during the Middle Ages and it was also an independent maritime state. Enjoy a narrated walk around the town center of Amalfi, with your guide, who will explain the history and architecture of the Cathedral of St. Andrew as you marvel at the exterior architecture, a mix of Moorish and early Gothic design. Its main treasures are the 11th-century bronze doors from Constantinople. Enjoy some free time on your own in Amalfi, for maybe shopping or relaxation, before cruising back to Salerno where your coach will be waiting to drive you to Sorrento. With its luxuriant vegetation and sun-drenched climate, Sorrento became a favorite resort of wealthy Romans. Experience this cliff-top setting, with an imposing Duomo, distinctive for its 13th-century cloister, and a charming, flower-filled town, all there for you to explore. Enjoy lunch with wine in a local restaurant in Sorrento before returning back to your ship. Note: Tour is not available for winter sailings. Guests must be able to walk approximately 500 yards over even surfaces with 5 - 10 steps. There are several steps to access the lunch venue. Comfortable walking shoes, hat, and sunscreen are highly recommended. Walking during the free time is at the guests' discretion. The drive between Naples and Salerno is approximately 45 minutes and from Sorrento to Naples is approximately 1 1/2 hours. Guests wishing to enter the Cathedral of St. Andrew on their own must ascend approximately 60 or more very steep steps. The order of the tour may be reversed. The motor launch has both inside and outside seating. In case of bad weather conditions and/or rough seas, the cruise to Amalfi will be cancelled and an orientation drive of the Amalfi Coast will be made instead. Due to traffic restrictions of the Sorrento center a short walk from the motorcoach drop off point to the main center and vice versa will be required. During summer months expect extreme heat, crowded venues and long lines. We recommend that you dress in layers and bring bottled water. less

Enjoy a wonderful drive along the scenic coastal road which affords a splendid view of the Saronic Gulf, passing through some of Athens' most beautiful suburbs of Glyfada, Kavouri, Vouliagmeni, Varkiza, and Lagonissi. Arrive at Cape Sounion where you’ll visit the 5th century B.C. Temple of Poseidon, standing some 200 feet above the sea at the edge of a cliff. It is one of the most breathtaking and deeply moving sights in all of Greece. This is the place where the ancient Greeks worshipped their mighty god of the seas, Poseidon. The 15 (of the original 34) columns of the Doric Order that are still standing belong to the temple built here during the Golden Age of Perikles' Athens, over the relics of an older one. The architect is unknown, but it is believed to be the same who built the Theseion in Athens. Following your visit, refreshments will be served at one of the most luxurious resort hotels in Vouliagmeni. Note: There is approximately 1/4 mile of walking on sloping and uneven ground on this tour. less

Experience Corfu's most enchanting landmarks and colorful villages as well as breathtaking views of the island on this delightful tour. After an approximate 30-minute drive, you’ll first stop at Paleokastritsa, not only one of the most beautiful spots on the island but also a vantage point from which splendid views of the area's multiple bays can be seen. It’s said that at one of these bays, Odysseus met Nausica after he was washed ashore. Here you’ll visit the Monastery of the Virgin and its small museum. Your tour will continue towards the village of Lakones where you can look down on the Paleokastritsa and take memorable pictures. While continuing your drive to the western section of Mount Pantokrator, you’ll get the feeling that the entire island of Corfu is spread below your feet. After passing various Corfiot villages, you’ll walk through the beautiful fishing village of Kassiopi which is dominated by an ancient plane tree in its main square to reach your typical Greek lunch. After lunch you’ll continue exploring the northeast coastline via the village of Nissaki and the coastal resorts of Barbati, Ipsos, Dassia, Gouvia and Kontokali. Continuing your drive through the beautiful countryside, you’ll reach the Old Town of Corfu where you’ll have a chance to admire from the comfort of your motorcoach, the architecture of the beautiful mansions, the Byzantine churches, the old fortress, the Palaces of St. Michael and St. George and the lively Esplanade Square, before your return to the pier. Note: During summer months expect crowded venues and long lines. Temperatures can reach extreme highs during summer months; we recommend that you drink a lot of water, use suitable sun protection and dress in layers. Guests who are planning to visit religious sites during free time or on tour, please dress appropriately; no bare shoulders or shorts are allowed. less