Europe Cruises: Excursions

Leaving the ship take a drive by coach over the new panoramic road to a viewpoint from where you can see the magnificent view of Dubrovnik and its Riviera. After the panoramic stop, you’ll drive toward the picturesque seaside resort town of Cavtat, which was the Ancient Roman City of Epidaurus. Over the years Cavtat has been a favorite destination for sailors and yacht enthusiasts, in fact Edward VIII and Wallace Simpson came here during their honeymoons. In Cavtat you’ll have opportunity for a pleasant walk along the sea front promenade or have a coffee in one of many cafes located along the coast. From Cavtat, you’ll drive along the eastern coast of the Dubrovnik Riviera toward Komaji Village to visit a winery. Upon arrival, proceed to the Crvik family vineyards. The owner of the winery will greet you on arrival and give you a presentation about his wines and will show you the production process. He’ll even invite you to participate in a tasting of his vintage wines. Following the tasting, you’ll re-board your coach and depart for Dubrovnik. Founded in the mid-7th century by Greek refugees from Epidaurus, Dubrovnik became the most important city-state on the Adriatic. The Old Town is unique for its marble-paved squares, cobbled streets, tall houses, churches, palaces, fountains, and museums, all built from the same light-colored stone. Along the way, you’ll visit the Dominican Monastery, inside where you’ll discover the finest collection of Renaissance paintings in Dubrovnik. Among the many works by local and Italian masters is a painting by Tizian. After the walking tour, you’ll have some free time to explore on your own. Today, Dubrovnik is as beautiful as ever, waiting to be explored and enchant visitors as it has done for centuries. Note: This tour is not suitable for passengers who have difficulties walking due to the inclines and cobblestone streets. There is approximately 1 mile of walking and approximately 15 steps to navigate. Tour may be operated in reverse order. When tendering into Dubrovnik Old Town tour duration will be shorter. less

The tour starts with and internal visit of the largest and most important amphitheater - the Colosseum. This imposing structure is 160 feet high and covers about 6 acres. It has four levels of seats and could hold 50,000 spectators who watched gladiatorial battles and other events. After visiting this magnificent structure with your guide, you’ll continue to the Roman Forum which was the political, economic and religious centre of ancient Rome. Walk through the ruins of various temples, tribunals and other buildings which were used for public and private business. From here, you’ll continue to see an iconic fountain of Rome - the Trevi Fountain. The high-baroque Fontana di Trevi was designed by Nicola Salvi in 1732 and today is one of Rome’s most spectacular fountains. Legend has it that you can ensure your return to Rome by tossing a coin in the fountain. After lunch in a typical Italian restaurant, you’ll proceed to St. Peter's Square and visit St. Peter's Basilica. You’ll have some free time to explore on your own before driving back to Civitavecchia and to your ship. Note: You’ll need to navigate through extensive walking over cobblestone streets, uneven terrain and negotiate some stairs on this tour. Guests who are planning to visit religious sites during free time or on tour, please dress appropriately; no bare shoulders or shorts are allowed. Your guide will join you in Rome, however you’ll have an escort with you throughout the day. AVAILABLE FOR ALL NORWEGIAN SPIRIT SAILINGS AND ON BARCELONA TO BARCELONA NORWEGIAN EPIC SAILINGS ONLY. less

This evening, you’ll have the unique opportunity to visit St. Mark’s Basilica after the crowds have left and it closes to the public. Unlike daytime visits, this exclusive opening of the basilica lets you admire this magnificent structure when it turns silent, just listening to the narration of your guide. A motor launch ride down the Giudecca Canal takes you to Riva degli Schiavoni, a short walk from the square. You’ll meet your guide in St. Marks’s Square, the heart of Venice and meeting place, living room and promenade for both Venetians and visitors. The church was built on the plan of a Greek cross in Byzantine style. The beautiful facade shows different architectural styles with gold mosaic arches rising above the carved, Romanesque portal; the rooftop is crowned with five domes, reminiscent of Hagia Sofia in Istanbul. Showcased in the center are the four bronze horses brought from Byzantium in 1204. The inside is rich in mosaics, with many of them dating back to Byzantium. St. Mark's Basilica houses other extraordinary treasures, the finest being the gold altar screen, encrusted with more than 1,000 jewels and Byzantine enamels. The marble floors are entirely tessellated with geometric patterns and animal designs. After this amazing experience, you can have some free time. Note: Tour participation is limited, but is subject to a minimum number of participants to operate. As you’ll be visiting a religious site, no bare shoulders or knees are allowed. No photography allowed inside the basilica. Venice is a city built on and encompassed by water. Most tours require a lot of walking and climbing of stairs over many bridges and therefore are not suggested for anyone with walking difficulties. This particular tour has 500 steps, uneven and cobblestone terrain. THIS TOUR IS ONLY AVAILABLE FOR NORWEGIAN SPIRIT SAILINGS. The tour is not available for the April 29th or September 20th 2013 sailings. less