From Magna Graecia to Greece

Explore & Restore Chopra Cruise from Palermo to Piraeus
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08.28.24-09.05.24
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8 Nights
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Discover the wonders of the Mediterranean on this voyage in partnership with Chopra (more details below). Experience the rich history, culture, and cuisine of Sicily, Italy, Albania, and Greece. Sail through sparkling waters, and discover ancient cities, charming islands, and stunning landscapes. Explore the ruins of a legendary oracle, cruise through a narrow canal carved into rock, and imagine seeing the spectacle of a real volcanic eruption.

Itinerary

Palermo, Sicily
Day 1
A feast for the senses, Sicily’s capital is an intoxicating and chaotic melting pot offering up centuries of history and a street food bonanza. Three bustling markets Capo, Bollaro and Vucciria await those ready to embrace Palermo for all that it offers. Narrow side streets lead to hidden palaces and churches along Via Maqueda. The Palazzo dei Normanni, once the seat of Sicilian kings during Norman rule, showcases the city’s past opulence.
Lipari, Sicily
Day 2
The largest Aeolian Island, Lipari, has a landscape of lava quarries, shrubbery and cliffs. Lipari Town is a bustling port, its pastel buildings lining the harbour with numerous cafes and restaurants. Overlooking the harbour, the 16th-century Spanish-built fortified citadel and castle house ancient archaeological artefacts spanning thousands of years and various empires, some dating back as far as 6,000 years.
Cruising Stromboli
Day 2
Stromboli, a small island in the Aeolian archipelago in the Tyrrhenian Sea, is renowned as one of the globe's most active volcanoes, consistently erupting since 1932. The volcano's majestic cone emerges from the sea, crowned with fiery vents.
Giardini Naxos(Taormina), Sicily
Day 3
Giardini Naxos, on Sicily's east coast, is famed for ancient ruins and scenic beaches. Remnants of the Greek city of Naxos, including sacred precincts and temples, unveil its rich past. Nearby, Mount Etna stands as a reminder of nature's grandeur. Taormina, one of Italy's most beautiful cities, showcases Corso Umberto's charming streets, Viuzze's narrow lanes unveiling local handicrafts, and the Roman Theatre, a testament to ancient heritage.
Crotone
Day 4
Along Calabria's coast of rugged cliffs and sandy beaches, port town Crotone features the 16th-century Castle of Charles V, containing a museum with an ancient golden tiara found in the area. Nearby Capo Colonna Archaeological Park is named for its promontory column. Crotone mixes ancient city walls and the Black Madonna cathedral alongside Calabrese restaurants serving traditional pasta and sausage dishes.
Otranto
Day 5
Otranto in Puglia is a town famous for its rich history and culture. In town, attractions include the Otranto Cathedral and the 15th-century Aragonese Castle built by the Aragonese kings of Naples to defend the town from invaders. The important San Leucio archaeological park, outside of Otranto near Canosa, is home to the ruins of a 6th century Byzantine-style basilica and Temple of Minerva. The Antiquarium houses finds from the site.
Sarande
Day 6
The Albanian Riviera stretches along a beautiful section of the Ionian coastline. Sarandë is its unofficial capital, whose original settlers were said to be descendants of ancient Greek hero Achilles. Today crowds flock to Sarandë to enjoy the beaches and bustling nightlife. Outside the city, a plethora of UNESCO-listed ancient ruins include the Ancient City of Butrint, considered one of the most important archaeological sites in Albania.
Preveza
Day 7
Preveza, at the mouth of Amvrakikos Gulf in Western Greece, is a charming city with a characterful old town. Further afield, the Ancient City of Nikopolis, founded in 31 BC by Emperor Octavian to celebrate his victory over Antony and Cleopatra, thrived During the Roman and early Byzantine eras, as the capital of Old Epirus, leaving behind well-preserved archaeological features, including Roman city walls, an odeum, a theatre and thermal baths.
Itea
Day 8
An important historical place, the harbour town of Itea sits below Mount Parnassus, home to the mythical Muses and the winged horse Pegagus. It's near the ancient Greek sanctuary of Delphi where Pythia, the Oracle, prophesied the words of Apollo Pegasus. In 1827, Itea witnessed the Battle of Agali during the Greek War of Independence. The mountain region hosts one of the oldest and largest olive groves.
Cruising Corinth Canal
Day 8
The Corinth Canal links the Gulf of Corinth with the Saronic Gulf in the Aegean Sea. Cutting through the narrow Isthmus of Corinth, it divides the Peloponnese from the Greek mainland. At 6.4 km long and 21.3 m wide at its base, it's impassable for most large ships. Commissioned by Greek tyrant Periander in the 7th century BC, it stayed incomplete until the late 19th century, when modern engineering techniques finally completed it.
Piraeus
Day 9
Greece's cosmopolitan capital, Athens, connected by Piraeus port, is an exciting blend of ancient and modern. The Grand Promenade seamlessly links the city's main archaeological sites, and a visit isn't complete without exploring the Acropolis—a hill housing ancient ruins, including the iconic Parthenon. For deeper insights, the Acropolis Museum awaits, and a marble path ascends Filopappou Hill, offering majestic views of the 'high city.'
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Explore & Restore

A well-being voyage, part of the program we have developed in partnership with world-renowned personal transformation pioneer Deepak Chopra. It’s a unique voyage designed to strengthen your inner purpose and help you connect with your true self. The cruise has a range of transformative activities, including sunrise yoga sessions, meditation close to nature, exclusive, expert-led workshops, and a chance to enjoy nourishing, 5-star Ayurveda-inspired meals.