Through the Pillars of Hercules

Embark in Naples where Mount Vesuvius looms over the ruined Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Visit Villa Oplontis known for its sumptuous frescos. From Minerva’s Promenade Deck or panoramic Orpheus Lounge watch as the Bay of Naples and the island of Capri fade from view.

Discover Sicily, for millenia at the cross roads of Mediterranean civilisations. Visit Catania, constructed from lava that poured down from Mount Etna and destroyed the city in the 1669 eruption. Admire its elegant buildings and the impressive marble façade of St Agata’s Cathedral, or visit Syracuse, considered by Cicero to be the greatest Greek city of them all.

Sail through the narrow Messina Strait and along the northern coast of the island to Palermo, Europe’s grandest city in the 12th century. A guided walk will reveal palaces, castles and churches. Overlooking Palermo is the small town of Monreale with its splendid Norman cathedral, the interior of which is decorated with mosaics containing more than 2,200 kilos of pure gold.

Cruise south across the Mediterranean to La Goulette, gateway to Tunis, the richest sea port in ancient times destroyed by the Romans in 146 BC. Explore the Punic ruins of Carthage or the Bardo Museum, renowned for its marvellous collection of Roman mosaics.

Enjoy a relaxing couple of days at sea, listening to interesting talks by our Guest Speakers, browsing the Library or relaxing in the Lounges and on deck, before Minerva arrives at the Andalucian city of Malaga. Explore this charming city, its streets and squares lined with elegant houses and overlooked by the Moorish Alcazar or head inland to the exquisite Moorish Alhambra Palace in Granada. Marvel at the richly decorated palace and stroll around the beautiful courtyards of the Generalife Gardens on an inclusive full day excursion.

Sail through the narrow Straits of Gibraltar to Cadiz, possibly the oldest city in Europe. Walk ashore to explore the elegant old town or visit Jerez, a town world-renowned for its sherry and Moorish Alcazar.

Spend a day relaxing on board and savour the fine dishes prepared by the Chef as Minerva cruises west to Madeira and its flower filled capital, Funchal. Drive out to Cabo Girao for panoramic views of the island and sample some Madeira wine. Alternatively take the cable car up to the excellent Botanical Gardens. A more energetic option is a memorable hike along the levadas, the island’s irrigation channels. An overnight stay in port allows you to walk ashore and enjoy an evening in this pretty town perhaps visiting the famous Reid’s Palace Hotel.

Head south the following afternoon to the volcanic Canary archipelago, lying on the Tropics. Spend an afternoon on the island of Tenerife where you can discover the fertile Orotava Valley, or visit the Teide National Park to see the volcanic landscape of ash beds and lava streams in the shadow of the still active Mount Teide.

Cruise Message:

Special offer terms and conditions:

*Early booking offer of 10% applies to this cruise only, is not combinable with any other loyalty discount and is only available for bookings confirmed by 31 May 2012.
**To qualify for free insurance all passengers must be under 85 years of age at time of booking with no pre-existing medical conditions, further restrictions and terms apply, available on request. Offer only available on bookings confirmed by 31 May 2012.
***Complimentary return UK chauffeur service is available for all passengers booking in cabin grades A, B and C, travelling within 75 miles of Portsmouth or your departing airport.  Excess mileage charges on journeys over 75 miles will apply.

Itineraries and timings may be subject to change.