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Europe

Mediterranean Reverie

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Surrender to the rhythm of the Mediterranean on a 28-night voyage of timeless beauty and rich heritage with Cunard Cruises. From the majestic skyline of Istanbul to the sun-kissed shores of the Greek Islands, this extraordinary journey weaves through the heart of southern Europe in iconic Cunard style.

Click here to view full range of staterooms, availability and pricing

Sail aboard the elegant Queen Victoria, where old-world sophistication meets modern luxury. Discover the ancient wonders of Ephesus, the whitewashed charm of Santorini, the cultural treasures of Athens, and the coastal romance of Amalfi. With ports of call in Spain, France, Italy, Greece, and Turkey, each day brings a new horizon and unforgettable experiences.

Departs

  • 7 Sep 26 | Cruise Barcelona to Rome

Cunard cruise includes

  • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are available in the main restaurants
  • Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and late buffet options are available in the Kings Court, Lido, and Artisans’ Foodhall restaurants
  • Traditional Afternoon Tea is served daily in the grand setting of the Queens Room
  • Authentic pub lunches are served daily in the Golden Lion
  • Complimentary room service is available 24 hours a day
  • Cunard Insights – fascinating talks on a range of topics by notable experts
  • Spectacular musical performances in the Royal Court Theatre, along with comedy, dance, and drama
  • Film screenings in Illuminations and the Royal Court Theatre
  • Swimming pools, whirlpools, and fitness centre
  • Daily quizzes, workshops, and activities, led by professional hosts
  • Live music from resident bands, including jazz ensembles, classical recitals, singers, and soloists
  • On board library, which holds up to 8,000 books, plus puzzles and a card room
  • A children’s club supervised by our experienced youth team
  • Port taxes


Cruise Itinerary:

Barcelona, Spain

With its unforgettable charm, breathtaking architecture, rich history, warm Mediterranean waters and colourful landscapes, Barcelona is an extraordinary place to visit. Allowing you to soak up the sights, sounds and flavours of different cultures, it’s a must-see destination that offers class, charm and excitement in equal measures.

Providing the perfect way to soak up the many sights and sounds of Barcelona life, a cruise will allow you to explore the city’s abundance of exciting attractions, exquisite examples of Spanish cuisine including mouth-watering tapas, and many historic landmarks. And, as the sun goes down, the city truly comes alive, with an array of restaurants, bars, clubs and entertainment venues.

Ibiza, Spain

This island is small, but packed full of stunning sights and places to explore. With active nightlife and beautiful beaches to discover, a visit to Ibiza is sure to be a fond memory for years to come.

This iconic island destination was reputedly founded as early as 654BC by Phoenician settlers, and its rocky peaks combine beautifully with the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Though the city is renowned for its club culture and electronic dance music scene, Ibiza has a wealth of cultural and historic riches to offer. Large portions of the island are protected as World Heritage Sites and the Renaissance walls of the Old Town are among few examples of their type left in the world. You’re sure to feel the intoxicating energy of Ibiza, whether you’re peering over ancient fortifications or sunbathing on internationally esteemed beaches.

At Sea

Ajaccio, Corsica, France

Corsica’s charismatic capital is a land of colourful streets, flavoursome, rustic cuisine, and perhaps most notably, historical importance.

Ajaccio is probably most known for being the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte. As you wander the city’s pretty streets, find this iconic leader immortalised in statues and plaques everywhere. When you’re not exploring history and architectural highlights, perhaps find time to simply sit somewhere peaceful and enjoy the view of brightly painted fishing boats and rustling palms.

While you’ll find tributes to Napoleon throughout Ajaccio, if you’re interested in learning more about this important historical figure you could visit his ancestral home – Maison Bonaparte. Now the National Museum of the Bonaparte House, here you can retrace Napoleon’s early footsteps and browse family documents and portraits, pondering the journey that produced one of Europe’s most notorious leaders.

Ajaccio town hall, or Hotel de Ville, is a charming, historic building that was erected between 1824 and 1830, while Charles X was king. Within the building you’ll find Salon Napoleon, which houses a number of artefacts including Napoleonic works of art.

The Imperial Chapel is also considered a historic monument, having been built in 1857 and consecrated in 1860. Built upon the request of Cardinal Fesch, the chapel is in fact the right wing of Palais Fesch, which also houses the Cardinal’s impressive collection of Italian paintings.

Tino Rossi Marina, named after famous Corsican singer and actor, is peppered with palm trees and home to charming shops, restaurants, and pretty pastel facades that beg to be photographed. It’s a lovely spot to enjoy a slow-paced afternoon with plenty of opportunities to people-watch or perhaps stop and sample some local fare.

At Sea

 Messina Strait, Italy (Transit)

Greek legends, migrating wildlife, and the occasional mirage make a journey through the Strait of Messina a uniquely fascinating voyage.

Connecting the Tyrrhenian Sea to the Ionian Sea, between the Eastern tip of Sicily and Western Calabria, the narrow waterway of Italy’s Strait of Messina provides passage to more than 300 migrating birds and is a hotbed of biodiversity.

Swordfish migrate here annually between May and July, and can regularly be sighted along the water’s surface, while storks, flamingos, Egyptian vultures, and record numbers of birds of prey are among the Strait of Messina’s regular feathered visitors.

Just 3 kilometres (a little shy of 2 miles) at its narrowest point, and with a naturally occurring whirlpool at its northern tip, the Strait has been linked to the Greek legend of Scylla and Charybdis; two opposing sea monsters believed to have inhabited the waters in ancient times.

Fata Morgana, or mirage, have also been known to appear on the horizon here. Historically thought to be conjured up by sorceresses to lure unsuspecting sailors, these mirages take shape when the atmosphere is just so and have been witnessed when looking towards Sicily from Calabria.

Combined with spectacular coastal scenery, including the mountain ranges of Monte Dinnammare and Peloritani, a sail along the Strait of Messina holds the promise of many magical encounters. 

Only three miles from mainland Italy, Messina sits on Sicily’s northeastern tip under Mount Etna’s unerring gaze. Messina is known as "the door of Sicily" and has always been a lively trading centre.

One of Messina’s top attractions is the astronomical clock, housed in a soaring bell tower on the Piazza del Duomo. Be there for midday, and see the display of bronze mythological figures and lions.

Salerno (tours to Capri or Pompeii), Italy

Discover the unmissable charms of one of the most popular ports along the Amalfi Coast: Salerno. Delve into this picture-perfect region that lies along the stunning southwest Italian coastline, and explore the many delights that this unique area has to offer.

Nestled amongst a backdrop of steeply sloping hills, medieval churches, and tightly winding streets full of the historical charm of the region, Salerno opens up the gateway for many delightful hours of exploration, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences.

Stretching out to gently meet the deep blues of the Mediterranean, Salerno and the surrounding areas dotted along the Amalfi Coast have evolved over the years. The setting of many tales of ancient mythology and historical intrigue, this part of the world has become a hotspot for those looking to experience Italy at its most authentic.

Perfectly positioned to offer guests an opportunity to explore a region steeped in rich culture, Salerno welcomes you with its sun-soaked charm, delectable cuisine, and a plethora of things to see and do.

Here’s our guide on everything you need to know about exploring the port city of Salerno.

Civitavecchia (tours to Rome), Italy

Remarkable scenery. Delectable culinary treats. A gateway into ancient history. Located on the western shores of Italy’s Lazio Region, Civitavecchia will no doubt provide you with memories to cherish forever.

Part of the Metropolitan City of Rome Capital, the name ‘Civitavecchia’ translates to “ancient town” - a title it has earned over its rich history, dating back to before the Middle Ages.

Disembark into a land full of legends known the world over. Located within an hour of the Eternal City of Rome itself, the port of Civitavecchia plays host to stunningly beautiful architecture, including the imposing fifteenth-century Fort Michelangelo.

As your ship gently cruises into port, you’ll be welcomed by Fort Michelangelo, a local architectural wonder. Venture further in, and you’ll find more treats just waiting to be photographed and explored.

At Sea

Marseille, France

Port cities quite like Marseille are few and far between. You'll find the energetic, lively and ever changing Marseille combines an alluring historic past with brisk, modern and industrious present.

France’s second-largest city, Marseille’s was named a European Capital of Culture in 2013, and has since undergone much development and rejuvenation. It is a fantastic city to explore.

The old port of Marseille has a history which spans back many decades. It was first settled in 600 BC by Greeks landing in an empty Mediterranean cove – now the old port of Marseille. What is now St Victor’s Abbey was built between the third and ninth centuries to the south of the Old Port.

Until the 19th century, the Old Port remained the epicentre of all maritime activity in Marseille, but was left in crumbling ruins after WWII. The Nazis also destroyed the aerial ferry, or ‘transbordeur’, a feat of engineering which had become the iconic landmark representing Marseille. Work began on revitalising the Old Port in 1948 and many additions and new features were added to it over the years. Today, the Old Port is used as a marina and centre of activity for visitors. Local boat trips leave from here, and there is also an authentic fish market.

Whether you are a culture vulture, shopaholic or thrill-seeker, the city of Marseille has something with you in mind.

A visit to the Vieux Port – or Old Port – is a great start to any visit. It has been in use since 600 BC, and signs of Marseille’s rich maritime history are everywhere here, from the Phare de Sainte Marie lighthouse to St Victor’s Abbey, one of the oldest Christian worship sites in France.

Next, head over to the neighbourhood of Le Panier. It is an Old Quarter laced with military history. Rebuilt after the Second World War, today it is a spectacular mish-mash of streets with hidden artisan shops and huddled houses. It is the perfect place to pick up a souvenir for loved ones back home.

There are also a number of important religious sites in Marseille, such as the Basilique Notre Dame de la Garde – a beautiful, 19th century basilica and a fantastic example of Romano-Byzantine architecture. It also occupies Marseille’s highest point, La Garde, standing at 530 feet. If that is not enough history for you, head along to the Cathedrale de Marseille Notre Dame de Major, standing between the new and old ports.

On your Marseille cruise, there are also a number of museums to keep you entertained. The Museé des Beaux Arts is Marseille’s oldest museum and is brimming full of paintings and sculptures from the 17th century right up to the present day. When you have had a look around the museum, relax in the shaded gardens outside and enjoy watching the world go by in this fast-moving and dynamic city.

In Marseille, there are plenty of places to stop and enjoy the French lifestyle – ideally with a glass of red wine and mid-afternoon snack of bread, cheese and meats. You will also find some fantastic seafood in the area and many dishes are influenced by Spain, Italy and North Africa as well as traditional French cuisine.

Villefranche, France

Cruising into the port of Villefranche, you may be forgiven for mistaking the sleepy seaside town as a landscape straight out of a Renaissance painting.

Steeply terraced streets dappled in various pastel shades sweep along the edge of the natural bay, welcoming you to a region laden with Mediterranean charm and French culture.

Guests on a cruise to Villefranche will have the opportunity to explore some of the most picturesque areas of the beloved French Riviera, including the historical charms of Nice and the glamorous streets of Monaco.

A quiet port town, Villefranche acts as a beautiful gateway to one of the most frequented and well-loved areas of Europe – the French Riviera. Located on the southeastern coast of France, close to the Italian border, Villefranche sits within a peaceful bay, giving visitors a flavour of an authentic French fishing village.

Step back in time and fall in love with the slow pace of life accompanied by breath-taking surroundings, both natural and carefully crafted by man.

Here’s our guide on everything you need to know about exploring the romantic port town of Villefranche.

 Genoa, Italy

Genoa is the capital of Liguria and the sixth largest city in Italy. For many, it is a gateway to the Italian Riviera, but it bears plenty of its own charm to share including culture, history and art.

History comes to life here in Genoa, particularly in the complex sprawling of the old city, where old architecture and winding alleys twist and turn, taking you on a relaxing journey through the past.

However, Genoa is a destination which is also looking toward the future. It was declared a 2004 City of Culture, and has therefore undergone some transformative makeovers recently. It is now home to Europe’s largest aquarium, lively restaurants and bars, and a fascinating maritime museum.

Genoa is anchored by its history, and the modern city still proudly displays relics of the past. The city was founded in 4th century BC, and its name is thought to have come from iauna, (meaning “door” in Latin), as it was such an important Roman port. After occupations by the Franks, Saracens and the Milanese, Genoa expanded in the 16th century under Spanish rule. It prospered further in the 17th century, when an outer ring of walls was added to the city, and beautiful new buildings were added by celebrated architects such as Galeazzo Alessi.

Although the city entered a decline in the 1970s, 1992 saw its revival when the 500th anniversary of Christopher Columbus’s seminal voyage to America made the harbour a worldwide stage.

The fascinating Old City of Genoa is a beautiful place to spend an afternoon getting lost around the narrow streets. Famous for its caruggi (meaning narrow lanes), the medieval part of Genoa is bounded by ancient city gates and has an atmospheric, almost eerie, feeling to it. The dark labyrinth is perfect for getting a sense of the old Genoa. It is still largely residential, although you will find a number of bars and restaurants here, too. Head over to Via Orefici to find charming market stalls.

Emerge into the light and check out the Palazzo Reale, one of the Palazzi dei Rolli. It offers intricate furniture, terraced gardens and some notable 17th century art. The Palazzo's Hall of Mirrors is not to be missed.

When you are ready for a rest, stop at any one of the newly built bars and restaurants for a pick me up espresso or a spot of lunch. In Genoa there are plenty of delicious dishes to choose from – from thin crispy pizza topped with salty anchovies, to rustic pasta dishes accompanied with some of Genoa’s fine seafood.

What next? Head to the aquarium. It is home to over 5,000 sea creatures, and the ship Nave Blu, which floats at the end of a walkway, exhibits a host of coral reefs.

Lastly, make time to visit the Maritime Museum on your Genoa cruise. In the past, Genoa was a major maritime power, which is reflected in this fascinating and well-organised museum. The exhibits are high-tech and interactive, documenting this city’s colourful seafaring history. Do not miss the floor dedicated to Christopher Columbus (reportedly born in Genoa), or the top floor which offers fantastic panoramic views of a changing cityscape.

La Spezia (tours to Florence or Pisa), Italy

Tucked into the Ligurian coastline between the cities of Genoa and Pisa, the charming and atmospheric La Spezia is one of Italy’s most important commercial harbours and home to its largest naval base.

La Spezia is also the gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Cinque Terre, a collection of five fantasy-like coastal villages perched immaculately on the contours of the coastline.

At Sea

Remarkable scenery. Delectable culinary treats. A gateway into ancient history. Located on the western shores of Italy’s Lazio Region, Civitavecchia will no doubt provide you with memories to cherish forever.

Part of the Metropolitan City of Rome Capital, the name ‘Civitavecchia’ translates to “ancient town” - a title it has earned over its rich history, dating back to before the Middle Ages.

Disembark into a land full of legends known the world over. Located within an hour of the Eternal City of Rome itself, the port of Civitavecchia plays host to stunningly beautiful architecture, including the imposing fifteenth-century Fort Michelangelo.

Messina Strait, Italy (Transit)

Greek legends, migrating wildlife, and the occasional mirage make a journey through the Strait of Messina a uniquely fascinating voyage.

Connecting the Tyrrhenian Sea to the Ionian Sea, between the Eastern tip of Sicily and Western Calabria, the narrow waterway of Italy’s Strait of Messina provides passage to more than 300 migrating birds and is a hotbed of biodiversity.

Swordfish migrate here annually between May and July, and can regularly be sighted along the water’s surface, while storks, flamingos, Egyptian vultures, and record numbers of birds of prey are among the Strait of Messina’s regular feathered visitors.

Just 3 kilometres (a little shy of 2 miles) at its narrowest point, and with a naturally occurring whirlpool at its northern tip, the Strait has been linked to the Greek legend of Scylla and Charybdis; two opposing sea monsters believed to have inhabited the waters in ancient times.

Fata Morgana, or mirage, have also been known to appear on the horizon here. Historically thought to be conjured up by sorceresses to lure unsuspecting sailors, these mirages take shape when the atmosphere is just so and have been witnessed when looking towards Sicily from Calabria.

Combined with spectacular coastal scenery, including the mountain ranges of Monte Dinnammare and Peloritani, a sail along the Strait of Messina holds the promise of many magical encounters. 

At Sea

 Rhodes, Greece

Around 60 miles south of the Turkish coast, Rhodes is a picturesque island full of charm, character, and eons of history that begs to be explored.

Warm locals welcome you to this Grecian Island, which you’re invited to enjoy as you wish during your stay. Maybe you’ll seek out a hidden taverna, where you can blend into the atmosphere nursing a cold glass of beer as the sun beams down. Or would you prefer to see as much as possible of the island’s historic landmarks, or pretty beaches? Discover what’s in store in Rhodes with our guide.

Rhodes is an island with a long and varied history, and there are plenty of relics still to be seen today. From the ancient acropolis in Lindos to the Ottoman-era Suleymaniye Mosque, discover many important landmarks that help to illustrate what’s made Rhodes the place it is today.

Kusadasi (tours to Ephesus), Turkey

A place of pilgrimage, mystery, and myth, a cruise to Kusadasi invites you to discover a land once ruled by Greeks and Romans, where the ruins of ancient cities and temples will catapult you as far back as 300 BC.

Find yourself thrust from the present into centuries past as you explore historic landmarks like Hadrian’s Temple and Celsius Library in Ephesus, one of the world’s largest and best-preserved Roman cities. Venture into the green hills of Selcuck to gaze upon the stone house where the Virgin Mary is said to have spent her final days. And take-in the Temple of Apollo’s towering stone columns on a visit to the once bustling port city of Priene. 

Dardanelles Strait, Turkey (Transit)

The Dardanelles Strait is a natural body of water connecting the Aegean Sea with the Sea of Marmara, in western Turkey. Gaze out from the decks of your Cunard Queen at shores that have made history serving civilizations throughout the years.

Sail along the Dardanelles Strait past banks adorned with grand castles, watching the passing scenery from the comfortable and spacious decks of your Cunard Queen. Strategically positioned, the Dardanelles Strait has a long maritime history and is widely considered one of the world’s most important waterways, certainly making for an iconic voyage.

Dividing the continents of Europe and Asia, the 37mile long Dardanelles Strait is home to important landmarks that can be admired on this scenic period of your voyage. On the western side of the strait is the Gallipoli peninsular, a site that played a pivotal but tragic role in World War I. Look over the peninsular and perhaps take a moment to reflect on the historical scenes that occurred out on the battlefield here.

The geographical location of this body of water means that throughout the years it has played a prominent part in politics, and the architectural remnants of its significance remain. At the narrowest point of the strait, admire Kilitbahir Castle on the west coast, and Cimenlik Castle on the east coast in Çanakkale. Both erected in the 15th century at the behest of Fatih Sultan Mehmet, the fortresses were built in an effort to control this section of the water. Views of the 18th century Bigali Castle and 19th century Nara Castle also provide a glimpse into Turkish history.

Istanbul, Turkey

This historic city has attracted visitors for centuries. Today, explore its fascinating blend of ancient architecture that lives within a bustling, modern metropolis.

Home to landmarks like the striking Hagia Sophia and the colourful Grand Bazaar, Istanbul is a city in which you might like to get lost on purpose. Perhaps you’ll find an inviting café terrace where you can sip on a strong, authentic Turkish coffee and watch the world go by. Or maybe you’d rather have a busy day taking in as many attractions as possible? The options in Istanbul are almost endless.

Once one of the starting (or end) points on the famous Silk Road trading route, Istanbul – or Constantinople as it was then – is filled with ancient landmarks.

 

 

Dardanelles Strait, Turkey (Transit)

The Dardanelles Strait is a natural body of water connecting the Aegean Sea with the Sea of Marmara, in western Turkey. Gaze out from the decks of your Cunard Queen at shores that have made history serving civilizations throughout the years.

Sail along the Dardanelles Strait past banks adorned with grand castles, watching the passing scenery from the comfortable and spacious decks of your Cunard Queen. Strategically positioned, the Dardanelles Strait has a long maritime history and is widely considered one of the world’s most important waterways, certainly making for an iconic voyage.

Dividing the continents of Europe and Asia, the 37mile long Dardanelles Strait is home to important landmarks that can be admired on this scenic period of your voyage. On the western side of the strait is the Gallipoli peninsular, a site that played a pivotal but tragic role in World War I. Look over the peninsular and perhaps take a moment to reflect on the historical scenes that occurred out on the battlefield here.

The geographical location of this body of water means that throughout the years it has played a prominent part in politics, and the architectural remnants of its significance remain. At the narrowest point of the strait, admire Kilitbahir Castle on the west coast, and Cimenlik Castle on the east coast in Çanakkale. Both erected in the 15th century at the behest of Fatih Sultan Mehmet, the fortresses were built in an effort to control this section of the water. Views of the 18th century Bigali Castle and 19th century Nara Castle also provide a glimpse into Turkish history.

The main port for Athens for thousands of years, today Piraeus is still a bustling coastal city with plenty of charm.

Pretty streets teeming with colourful shops. Bouzouki music seeping out of taverna windows. A wander around Piraeus will no doubt offer up a whole host of curiosities that beg a second look. The city has long been an integral part of Greece, serving Athens since the 5th century BC. Remnants of its significance in the Ancient Greek empire remain, and yet the buzz of modernity in the air is unmistakable.

Upon arrival into Piraeus, you may well be planning to make your way straight to Athens, where of course some of the world’s most recognisable landmarks await. Piraeus itself, however, is also home to its own fascinating historical relics.

Santorini, Greece

One of the most famous islands in the world, Santorini is the southernmost Cyclades Island in the Aegean Sea.

As you sail into port, see the whitewashed houses that cling to the cliffs above, pristine blue roofs, and multicoloured pebble streets that make up Santorini's idyllic landscape

Created by the volcano eruption in 1650, Santorini and its port sit at the site of the largest volcanic eruptions in recorded history. Years later when civilization returned to the Greek island and reconstruction began, its unique natural beauty and wild scenery meant more and more guests began to visit. Today, Santorini is one of the most popular destinations worldwide. 

During high season, Santorini port welcomes over 80,000 guests per day who are tendered ashore by small boats and ushered to the base of the Caldera Cliffs in Fira, the capital of Santorini.

One of the most famous places in Greece, Santorini port is your gateway to beautiful sunsets, iconic architecture, extraordinary scenery, and volcanic beaches. Here’s our guide on everything you need to know about exploring the popular port island of Santorini.

Katakolon (tours to Olympia), Greece

Katakolon is an attractive port set against a backdrop of rolling mountains, giving way to the Ionian Sea and separating the ocean from the Gulf of Kyparissia. This is a stunning step into the past.

From Katakolon, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site and ancient wonder Olympia, with extensive and well-preserved ruins that include a stadium and temples dedicated to the gods Hera and Zeus.

Step back in time to almost 3,000 years ago, where ancient glory awaits at Olympia: the birthplace of the Olympic games. The marble starting blocks where 20,000 spectators once stood to watch the Olympians are still visible. The eternal flame of Attis casts its unwavering gaze over the site, and today sends off the torch on its journey.

Katakolon has been a port for a long time, and it was initially built to allow the transportation of goods to other major European ports. A rail link was completed between Katakolon and Pyrgos in 1881, and remnants of the old town can still be seen in the old warehouse buildings along the backstreets.

Olympia is an unmissable site to witness on your Greek cruise. Atmospheric, eerie and fascinating, you can easily spend a day wandering these ancient ruins and soaking up every relic of the past that still remains.

Olympia was where the Ancient Greeks celebrated the Olympic Games, once every four years for a least 1,000 years! Situated in an Elis valley, Olympia was also a national shrine to the gods, and contained a number of temples, monuments, theatres and statues.

The Games were abolished in 393 AD by Emperor Theodosius I. The destruction of the site means that little remains of the architecture, but the rubble and ruins do manage to evoke a sense of a glorious past of sportsmanship and competition. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Olympic flame is still lit here for the modern games. Highlights include the Temple of Zeus, only one column of which remains, but it helps you to imagine the sheer size of this structure when it stood as a whole. Also look out for Phidias’ workshop, where the huge statue of Zeus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, was sculpted.

The epic stadium lies east of the Altis and, unusually for a stadium, is rectangular. A few areas of note still survive, such as the judges’ seats and the start and finish lines for the sprint track. Although in its time the stadium could seat a whopping 45,000 spectators, slaves and women still had to watch from outside, on the Hill of Kronos.

Katakolon town

There is plenty in this seaside town to keep you entertained on your Katakolon cruise. Kourouta Beach is a beautiful place to soak up the sun. Thatched umbrellas and beach beds ensure you can relax in style and enjoy the views out to sea. The water here is warm and calm so it is perfect for swimming.

There are two museums: the Katakolon Museum of Ancient Greek Technology, which is an easy walk from the port and features a collection of inventions dating from 2000 BC to 100 AD, and the Museum of Ancient Greek Musical Instruments, allowing you to become fully immersed in fascinating Greek history.

It is well worth making the time to explore the Katakolon Lighthouse. Built in 1865, it dominates part of the entrance to the port. It is 30 feet tall and offers a nautical scope of 18 to 19 nautical miles.

Messina Strait, Italy (Transit)

Greek legends, migrating wildlife, and the occasional mirage make a journey through the Strait of Messina a uniquely fascinating voyage.

Connecting the Tyrrhenian Sea to the Ionian Sea, between the Eastern tip of Sicily and Western Calabria, the narrow waterway of Italy’s Strait of Messina provides passage to more than 300 migrating birds and is a hotbed of biodiversity.

Swordfish migrate here annually between May and July, and can regularly be sighted along the water’s surface, while storks, flamingos, Egyptian vultures, and record numbers of birds of prey are among the Strait of Messina’s regular feathered visitors.

Just 3 kilometres (a little shy of 2 miles) at its narrowest point, and with a naturally occurring whirlpool at its northern tip, the Strait has been linked to the Greek legend of Scylla and Charybdis; two opposing sea monsters believed to have inhabited the waters in ancient times.

Fata Morgana, or mirage, have also been known to appear on the horizon here. Historically thought to be conjured up by sorceresses to lure unsuspecting sailors, these mirages take shape when the atmosphere is just so and have been witnessed when looking towards Sicily from Calabria.

Combined with spectacular coastal scenery, including the mountain ranges of Monte Dinnammare and Peloritani, a sail along the Strait of Messina holds the promise of many magical encounters. 

At Sea

Civitavecchia (tours to Rome), Italy

Remarkable scenery. Delectable culinary treats. A gateway into ancient history. Located on the western shores of Italy’s Lazio Region, Civitavecchia will no doubt provide you with memories to cherish forever.

Part of the Metropolitan City of Rome Capital, the name ‘Civitavecchia’ translates to “ancient town” - a title it has earned over its rich history, dating back to before the Middle Ages.

Disembark into a land full of legends known the world over. Located within an hour of the Eternal City of Rome itself, the port of Civitavecchia plays host to stunningly beautiful architecture, including the imposing fifteenth-century Fort Michelangelo.

As your ship gently cruises into port, you’ll be welcomed by Fort Michelangelo, a local architectural wonder. Venture further in, and you’ll find more treats just waiting to be photographed and explored.

Cabin Types

from Auckland

Inside Stateroom

Relax in complete peace and comfort, cocooned from the stress of the everyday. The Britannia Standard Inside staterooms have two beds, a desk area with seat and a shower.

Barcelona,Spain

cruise only

from $6475 per person share twin

  • USD$450 Onboard Credit per stateroom
  • Flights are additional
  • Travel 07 Sep - 05 Oct 26

Oceanview Stateroom

Gaze upon an ever changing seascape from your large window, which offers an abundance of natural light in your spacious stateroom. The Britannia Oceanview staterooms have two beds, a living area and a shower.

Barcelona,Spain

cruise only

from $7450 per person share twin

  • USD$630 Onboard Credit per stateroom
  • Flights are additional
  • Travel 07 Sep - 05 Oct 26
Queen Victoria Club Balcony

Balcony Stateroom

Enjoy the view from your private balcony and the comfort of your luxurious interior as you relax in your well appointed stateroom. The Britannia Balcony staterooms have two beds, a shower, living area and balcony.

Barcelona,Spain

cruise only

from $8735 per person share twin

  • USD$720 Onboard Credit per stateroom
  • Flights are additional
  • Travel 07 Sep - 05 Oct 26

Terms & Conditions

Onboard gratuities are additional, Staterooms - USD$16 per person daily, Suites - USD$18 per person daily. 

All cruise packages are based on Twin share, inside cabin and costs are per person. Availability is current as at 19 May 25 and deals are available until date shown or until sold out. Space is strictly limited and is subject to availability at time of booking. On board credit where shown is per cabin & must be spent on board and is not refundable in cash. All passengers are bound by the individual cruise lines terms & conditions, please ask your consultant for a full copy. Current Deals must be paid in full at time of booking or deposit dates as shown. All passengers must have a valid passport with more than 6 months validity at the end of their holiday. Travel insurance should be taken out at time of booking to cover in the event of any unforeseen cancellation. Included airfares are based on special non refundable economy fares, ground transfers are not included unless specified, any hotels included are on a room only basis unless specified. Hotels in certain destinations in Europe, USA and Asia may require local tourist taxes or resort fees payable at check in, We aim to give an indication of these where possible, but unfortunately you cannot pre pay this aspect of the hotel rate and must settle at check in. ESTA Visas are required for Itineraries visiting USA ,Canada, India, China, Vietnam, Schengen states & Sri Lanka. Visa costs are not included. Passports must be valid at least 6 months after the end of your holiday, If travelling on a non NZ passport other visas + NZ re-entry permits may also be required, please check with applicable embassy. Passport validity, Visas, Vaccinations and health requirements are the responsibility of the passengers. Individual cruise line T&C will apply based on the cruise line booked.