Europe Cruises: Excursions

Visit the site of the First Olympic Games and learn about its glorious history, marvel at the treasures housed at the Olympia Archaeological Museum, and experience the real taste of Greece when you sample olive oils and wines produced at Agriturismo Magna Grecia. Approximately 25 miles east of Katakolon is the site of Ancient Olympia, birthplace of the Olympic Games. Even though the temples and monuments have disappeared and only the ruins are left, you cannot help but to envision the grandeur of the Temple of Zeus, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. The site was a sanctuary even before the stadium was built and the games took place. The Temple of Hera, the Prytaneion and the Philippeion were also monuments standing in the sacred grove. The famous Stadium, the largest of its day, is entered through a long, tunnel-like passage constructed in Roman times. Today, you can stand at the starting line and imagine the roar of the spectators seated in the marble benches as the athletes took their marks on the starting line. Your tour continues to the Olympia Archaeological Museum. Here you’ll find the Head of Hera and the superb statue of Hermes of Praxiteles, among many other magnificent pieces found in the area. Admire the sculpted ornaments from the Temple of Zeus and many other priceless pieces. Reboard your coach and drive through picturesque villages and unspoiled scenery to Magna Grecia Farm lying in the heart of a traditional agricultural region. You’ll be welcomed with local drinks and homemade snacks. Make sure you try the ouzo, a local liqueur that tastes like licorice. Visit the olive grove and learn the history of the olive tree and the tasty, peppery fruit produced here. You’ll see the vineyards and encounter farm animals as well. Immerse yourself in the beauty and charm of this estate and in the delicious flavors of Greek cuisine by sampling a variety of mezes (appetizer dishes) accompanied by local wine. Flirt with Greek culture as you watch a short demonstration of Syrtaki dance, and maybe try a few steps yourself. Opah! Note: There is approximately 1 1/2 miles of walking on even ground, dirt and gravel. less

Romantic charm and beautiful scenery will make your visit to Dubrovnik memorable. After a photo stop to take in the magnificent view of Dubrovnik from a vantage point by the road, drive through the picturesque villages of the fertile Konavle Valley to a restaurant located in an old mill next to the cascading waters of the Ljuta River. Here, your gracious host will offer you a light snack of local specialties such as smoked ham, cheese, homemade bread and a glass of local wine. Continue to the seaside resort of Cavtat. You’ll have free time to enjoy the quiet little town, a favorite destination for sailors and yacht enthusiasts. Then drive back to the charming Dubrovnik Old Town for an orientation tour with your guide, followed by free time to explore on your own. Note: This tour is not suitable for passengers who have difficulties walking due to the uneven cobblestone streets. There is approximately 1 1/4 miles of walking. Tour may be operated in reverse order. When tendering in to Dubrovnik Old Town tour duration will be shorter. less

Las Caletas was once the private home of the famous film director John Huston, who considered it one of the most beautiful places in the world. Today, Las Caletas is an exclusive tropical beach hideaway where you can enjoy an extraordinary day of sun, fun, and adventure. This lovely beach was named by Trip Advisor as one of the top 4 secluded beaches in the World for 2012. Only accessible by sea, this well-secluded nature preserve stands out against a steep, jungle-clad backdrop of tropical forest in an isolated cove on the southern shores of Banderas Bay. As you cruise towards this tropical paradise aboard a first-class catamaran, you'll enjoy the most fantastic coastal scenery that Puerto Vallarta has to offer. Once arriving at Las Caletas, you can choose between pure relaxation or gentle exploration in the unspoiled natural setting of this tropical beach hideaway. If relaxing is on your personal agenda, you can kick-back on the beach, relax in the shade on a comfortable hammock, or indulge in a therapeutic body massage or facial at the hilltop Spa (additional charge). As you relax and unwind, the gentle lapping of the surf on the private golden beach beckons you to take a closer look at the calm, clear waters of this isolated cove. Throughout the day, bilingual eco-guides offer snorkeling and kayaking tours giving everyone a chance to explore in a fun and relaxed way. On land, you can take a Paella cooking lesson, discover the prolific flora and bird life on a free guided nature walk through the jungle, orchid gardens and interactive parrot center. For the youngest explorers (4-11) there is the kid’s adventure camp with zip lines, a climbing wall, animal encounters and an exciting donkey ride. Note: Tour includes moderate walking on uneven surfaces and numerous steps. Please wear your swimsuit underneath comfortable clothing and bring sunscreen, a hat and a towel. less

Enjoy a drive to the southern part of Lanzarote, passing the picturesque villages of Macher and Uga and crossing black lava streams before arriving to the southwest coast of the island. There you’ll make a photo stop by Los Hervideros where the sea water seems to boil in a volcanic cave. On your way to the Timanfaya National Park, you’ll stop for a short camel ride. The park is a natural museum of unique beauty. Bizarre craters, streams of lava and fields of ashes formed by eruptions during the 18th century are mixed here in a nearly unrealistic lunar landscape. Upon arrival to Islote de Hilario, a crater with the highest surface temperatures in the region, you’ll experience still-existing activity not far underground as you gather around for the fun demonstrations. The geothermal energy is so strong that water gushes up and dry weed catches fire within seconds. Board a coach to embark on a tour of the Fire Mountains called the "Lunar Route”, which goes deep inside the heart of the national park and lasts approximately 45 minutes. Through a recorded narration, you’ll learn about the history of the volcanic eruptions and see how slowly life conquers the inhospitable landscape with very few endemic plants. From here you’ll drive to the wine-growing area of La Geria where the locals have modified grape growing through the centuries in order to preserve the vines from the harsh natural elements and provide a special cultivation for the grapes that produce the famous Malvasia wine. These vines are grown inside dimple-like craters and surrounded by volcanic stone semi-circles (called Zocos), built for each individual vine to provide much needed protection from the fierce winds. Visit one of the local wine cellars for a taste of the local wine before the return drive to your ship. Note: Because Fire Mountains is the most visited attraction, to avoid delays at the entrance, tour order may vary but all mentioned sites will be covered. No professional camera or video equipment is allowed at Timanfaya National Park, including the camel area. Comfortable shoes and a light jacket are recommended. less

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