Discover treasures of the Mediterranean with this 14-night cruise on board Arcadia. You’ll take in the iconic sights of Rome and Barcelona, along with bustling Naples, delightfully cosmopolitan Calvi, the ancient city of Cartagena and pretty fishing village Villefranche.
Barcelona offers you a vibrant mix of ancient and modern, with the extraordinary architecture of Gaudi at its heart and the chance for a relaxing promenade through narrow streets and open squares. Rome is one of the great historical cities of the world. With its rich heritage of fascinating buildings and monuments, it’s an essential destination for all lovers of Italy and the unforgettable highlight of this Arcadia cruise.
Southampton, UK
, Sail late afternoon - Check-in 2.00pm to 4.00pm
Barcelona, Spain
Explore Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia, and you'll discover the ornately wrought works of Antonio Gaudi. A local architect, whose works culminate in the surrealistic spires of the yet to be finished Sagrada Familia. Take a stroll down the colourful Ramblas. Explore the Gothic Quarter. Ride a cable car to the summit of Montjuic. Or sample local wines and authentic tapas as you watch the hustle and bustle of daily life pass you by.
Villefranche, France
Villefranches's circular bay is perhaps the loveliest harbour in the South of France. And, quite aside from its undeniable natural beauty, it's also conveniently situated for other attractions. Elegant Nice with its charming port and magnificent hotels. And, of course, Monte Carlo with its infamous Casino, tiny Royal Palace and the world-famous Oceanographic Museum established by Jacques Cousteau
Calvi, Corsica
On the north west coast of Corsica, Calvi is the country's most popular and longest established resort. From the 13th Century Ciradel, you can see stunning views over the port, the Bay of Calvi and the mountains of Corsica.
Rome
, From Civitavechia, Italy
Legendary fountains, piazzas, ancient architecture and cathedrals await your discovery in Italy's capital. At the Trevi Fountain capture the magic of Rome's grandest fountain. Gaze up at the horizon and you'll no doubt see St Peters Basilica. Visible from nearly everywhere in the city, it is built on the site where St Peter was martyred and buried. Witness the beautiful paintings of Michelangelo at the magnificent Sistine Chapel. And no visit to Rome would be complete without a visit to its imposing amphitheatre, the Colosseum.
Naples, Italy
Naples is the perfect gateway to visit picturesque Sorrento and the historical ruins of Pompeii. Sorrento was once a favourite resort to the Romans and evidence of their wealth can be found around every corner. Explore the imposing Duomo with its distinctive 13 th century cloister and the charming flower filled town. For a poignant taste of Roman history visit the ruins of Pompeii, a once prosperous city now frozen in time. Now it is preserved by the very thing that destroyed its flourishing civilisation, the ash of the mighty volcano, Vesuvius.
Day
10
Sun, Sep 12th 2010
Day
11
Mon, Sep 13th 2010
Cartagena
An ancient city with a name to match - it was founded more than 2,200 years ago by Carthaginian leader Hasdrubal - Cartagena is now one of Spains busiest commercial centres. Step ashore here, though, and you are immediately aware of its rich history. In fact, you see it even as you cruise towards the harbour as this is flanked by towering fortresses. Then, in the centre of the old town, you will find the original Carthaginian castle and sections of the old city walls.
Day
12
Tue, Sep 14th 2010
Gibraltar
To the ancient Greeks and Romans, Gibraltar was one of the two pillars of Hercules, set up by the mythical hero to mark the edge of the known world. Today it's home to the most famous rock in the world. From the summit, on a clear day, you can see across to Africa. From the top of Europa Point to the subterranean depths of St Michael's Cave, your visit will be filled with interesting sights and sounds.
Day
13
Wed, Sep 15th 2010
Day
14
Thu, Sep 16th 2010
Day
15
Fri, Sep 17th 2010
Southampton, UK
, Arr early morning - Disembarkation 9.00am to 11.00am