Transatlantic Cruises: Excursions

On your visit to Marseille, you’ll see the entrance of the old port guarded by the two fortresses: Saint John and Saint Nicolas. Drive to the Basilica Notre Dame de la Garde for a very interesting visit where you’ll discover the city of Marseille. In Avignon, city of art and culture, the metropolis of the Vaucluse region which spreads along the banks of the Rhone River, see the famous Pont d’Avignon with only four of its arches remaining. Avignon was a small but prosperous town when its destiny changed in the early 14th century with the exile of the Popes to France, leading to a century of brilliance. It is surrounded by ramparts and dominated by the Doms Rock which is crowned by the magnificent Cathedral and Palace of the Popes. Enjoy some free time for lunch and shopping on your own. Note: Tour involves walking for approximately 3 hours on uneven ground and cobblestone, with a few steps in Avignon. Driving time between Marseille and Avignon is approximately 1 1/2 hours long. This tour is not recommended for guests who are wheelchair confined. Public restrooms are available in Avignon. less

Avignon, a city rich in culture and art, spreading along the banks of the Rhone River was a small but prosperous town when its destiny changed in the early 14th century with the exile of the Popes to France, leading to a century of brilliance. It is surrounded by ramparts and dominated by the Doms Rock, on which stand majestically the Cathedral and the Palace of the Popes. The Palace of the Popes was one of the largest buildings of its time. It was fortress and palace, covering over 2 1/2 acres in a luxurious, sumptuously decorated maze of galleries, chambers, chapels and passages. Most of its original furnishings were lost or burned over centuries, but the rooms are still impressive. Visit the Palace of the Popes, followed by free time for lunch, shopping or further exploration on your own. Drive to the amazing eagle’s nest village of Les Baux de Provence built on a rocky spur in the Alpilles range and offering great views of the countryside and vineyards. In the village of Les Baux, you’ll see a mixture of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, the 12th century Church of St. Vincent and the 17th century Chapel of the White Penitents. You’ll also have some free time to walk along the narrow and winding streets lined with local artisans who display and sell their works. Note: Tour involves walking for approximately 3 hours on uneven ground and cobblestone, with a few steps in Avignon and about 20 steps in Les Baux. Not recommended for guests who are wheelchair confined. Public restrooms are available at both Avignon and Les Baux. Please dress appropriately. No bare shoulders or shorts are allowed. less

Pompeii once supported a flourishing civilization that was revealed nearly intact after being buried for about 1,700 years. The once-prosperous commercial and political center with a population of 25,000 was hidden under 20 feet of volcanic ash and cinders during the fateful eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in 79 A.D. Originally a seaport, the eruption raised the land and left the ruined town far from the bay. You’ll enter Pompeii through the Sea Gate and walk along the cobblestone streets to the Agora. Surrounded by temples and porticoes, this was the religious, civic and business center of the city. Because Pompeii was so well preserved, you can see many fine details that reveal the lifestyles of the residents, such as mosaic floors and colorful frescoes in some of the homes. As you wander through this ancient city, you can’t help but notice the still-active Mount Vesuvius towering above. If time permits, you’ll visit a cameo factory nearby to see how the famous jewelry is made and then have some time to browse the store. Note: During summer months expect extreme heat, crowded venues and long lines. We recommend that you dress in layers and bring bottled water. This tour includes extensive walking during the visit of Pompeii’s excavations. less

Visit the world-famous caves known for their delicately ramified dripstone formations, enjoy some free time at the quaint fishing village of Porto Cristo and learn how the famous Majorca pearls are made. You’ll start with a scenic drive towards the east and continuing past the villages of Algaida, Montuiri, Villafranca and Manacor. Some of these villages are known for the production of man made pearls and you’ll stop in one of them to visit one of the famous pearl factories. Situated near Porto Cristo are the Caves of Hams, which will be your next destination. The incomparable beauty of the caves is heightened by the artistic lighting created by Lorenzo Caldentey, son of the discoverer. Inside the caves there are several lakes and on the largest of all, the 'Sea of Venice', there are daily performances of the show 'Magical Mozart', in special tribute to the famous composer. Leaving the caves a short drive takes you to Porto Cristo, where you’ll have some free time to walk around this small village or relax in a cafe and simply people watch. Note: This tour involves approximately 1 mile of walking and 100 steps in the caves. less