22-Day Adriatic & Mediterranean Cruise on Holland America’s (HAL) ms Noordam Tuesday, April 15, 2014 to Wednesday, May 7, 2014.
Itinerary:
Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy – Tuesday, April 15
Messina, Sicily (Italy) – Wednesday, April 16
Valletta, Malta – Thursday, April 17
At Sea – Good Friday, April 18
Argostoli, Greece – Saturday, April 19
Corfu (Kerkia), Greece – Easter Sunday, April 20
Kotor, Montenegro – Monday, April 21
Dubrovnik, Croatia – Tuesday, April 22
Korčula, Croatia – Wednesday, April 23
Split, Croatia – Thursday, April 24
Venice, Italy – Friday, April 25
Venice, Italy, Saturday, April 26
At Sea – Sunday, April 27
Katakolon, Greece – April 28
Nafpilion, Greece – April 29
Piraeus (Athens), Greece – Wednesday, April 30
Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey – Thursday, May 1
Mykonos, Greece – Friday, May 2
Rhodes, Greece – Saturday, May 3
Thira (Santorini), Greece – Sunday, May 4
At Sea – Monday, May 5
Naples, Italy – Tuesday, May 6
Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy
April 15. HAL Airport Transfer from Flumicino – Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (FCO), Rome’s airport, to the ms Noordam, one of Holland America’s mid-size ships. All aboard at 3:30 pm. Departure from the cruise ship terminal at Civitavecchia, Italy at 4:00 pm.
April 16 am. Spend part of the morning cruising the 20-mile long Strait of Messina, a narrow channel separating Sicily and Italy and linking the Tyrrhenian and Ionian Seas. Filled with whirlpools and rocks, the narrow and dangerous Strait of Messina was traversed by Odysseus on his way home as described by Homer in Book XII of the Odyssey. Scylla (the rocks) and Charybdis (the whirlpool) were two immortal monsters who lurked in the the Strait of Messina, one on each side. Odysseus had to choose the lesser of the two evils in order to get his ship past them both.
April 16 pm. Messina (Sicily), Italy.
The Noordam is the only ship in port from 12 noon to 8 pm. All aboard at 7:30 pm.
Average Temperature in April: 66 high; 56 low. In May 74 high; 63 low.
Messina is only 3 miles across the Strait of Messina from mainland Italy.
HAL Shore Excursion: A Cooking Lesson at Villa Trinità (12:30 to 7:30)
Includes a motor coach journey from the pier approximately 60 minutes to the charming village of Mascalucia on the slopes of Mount Etna to Villa Trinità. Villa Trinità (http://www.aziendatrinita.it/trinita-company.htm), an agricultural and farm estate, has been in the Bonajuto family for at least eight generations. Built in 1609, the Villa is named after the nearby sixteenth century church of the Santissima Trinità (Holy Trinity) and still has the same simple look of the rural building that was its original design. At the beginning of the 19th Century, the estate was used exclusively for the production of Etnean Wine. Then, over this century and for a good part of the 20th Century, it was used by the family for long summer vacations, following the old Sicilian tradition of aristocrats, for whom it was common practice to oversee the grape harvest and wine production. In 1960, an initial first step was made towards its conversion to full-time farming and the profitable cultivation of citrus fruits. From 1960 until the 1980’s, the estate underwent a slow restoration process and became the main residence of the Bonajuto family. Today, the ongoing restoration and renovation are the work of the current owner, Baron Salvatore Bonajuto and his wife Marina, who have helped this beautiful estate maintain its timeless charm. The Bonajuto’s Italian villa and farm is surrounded by blooming citrus trees and rich volcanic soil from Mount Etna. The Bonajutos bottle their own wine and olives. Baroness Marina Bonajuto leads cooking demonstrations, preparing delicious sicilian cuisine with ingredients fresh from the garden. After the cooking demonstration, a meal (usually includes an antipasto followed by two entrees and a crostata brushed with homemade lemon marmalade) accompanied by wine is served to guests by Baron Salvatore Bonajuto under the shade of fruit trees in the garden.
April 17. Valletta, Malta (Crossroads of the Mediterranean)
The Noordam (2,380 passengers) is in port with the Costa neoRivera (1600 passengers) from 9 a,m to 5 pm. All aboard at 4:30 pm.
Average Temperature in April: 68 high; 54 low. In May 75 high; 60 low.
HAL Shore Excursion: A Taste of Malta: Marsaxlokk & Wine Tasting (9 am to 1 pm)
Includes a motor coach journey southeast from Valletta to the picturesque fishing village of Marsaxlokk with colorful luzzu fishing boats (with curved prows and a single eye painted on the prow to safely guide the fishermen) bobbing in the harbor. Browse in the market selling local handicrafts, or relax in one of the many waterfront cafés. Marsaxlokk Harbor is where the Turks arrived in 1565 at the start of the Great Siege, and where Napoleon and his troops landed in 1798, ending the Knights of St John’s rule on the island. Proceed to Ta’ Qali’ Winery and head to the Upper Terrace (weather-permitting) for a breathtaking view over the vineyards, the city of Mdina and the Mosta Dome. Hear about the vines, planting methods and other details; then, enjoy wine tasting with some local cheese and crackers. Re-board your coach for a short drive to the nearby glass-blowing factory. Watch the process involved in producing glass items of different shapes and sizes. The founder’s daughter will explain the different steps of the process. Return to the ship via the coastal road. After lunch on board ship, spend time walking in Valletta, designated as the European capital of culture for 2018. The islands’ history with the Knights of the Order of St. John has left an indelible architectural and cultural legacy. The Knights of St John came to Malta in 1530 and stayed for 258 years. The Order of St. John was established in 1565 as a refuge for soldiers returning from the Crusades.The Maltese Cross was officially adopted by the Order of the Knights Hospitallers of St. John in 1126. Its eight points denote the eight obligations of the knights, namely “to live in truth, have faith, repent one’s sins, give proof of humility, love justice, be merciful, be sincere and whole-hearted, and to endure persecution”. Today, the Maltese Cross remains the symbol of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta.
April 18 – At Sea
Good Friday and the beginning of Holy Week leading toward Easter, providing an opportunity to see how Easter is uniquely celebrated in Greece and Croatia with festivals, parades, traditions, and food.
April 19 – Argostoli, Greece
This is a tender port. The Noordam is the only ship anchored in the harbor from 8 am to 5 pm. All aboard at 4:30 pm.
Average Temperature in April: 67 high; 48 low. In May 76 high; 55 low
No Shore Excursion.
The Ionian Island of Kefalonia, also known as Cephalonia, is strikingly beautiful, with jagged limestone cliffs and terraced slopes dotted with olive groves. The highest point on the island is Mount Ainos, rising to 5,914 feet. Argostoli, Kefalonia’s capital, lies on a peninsula projecting into the Gulf of Argostoli. Argostoli was almost completely destroyed by an earthquake in 1953. Buildings in a modern style replaced those that were destroyed. Argostoli’s attractions are mostly within walking distance of the port. The town is easily walkable. Walk left to stroll along the boulevard to the floating fish markets where fish are sold from boats and then walk a couple of blocks uphill to the pedestrian shopping streets. The main meeting point in the city is Vallianos Square surrounded by shops, tavernas and other businesses. A couple blocks south of the square is the main shopping street, Lithostroto, which is a pedestrian-only cobblestone street shopping mall. There are two nice small museums in the city. The Archaeological Museum has artifacts from Mycenean to Roman times. The Korgialeneio History and Folk Art Museum includes many displays showing the island prior to the earthquake. The picturesque De Bosset Bridge was built of wood in the early 19th century, but replaced a few years later with stone. It is one of the city’s most popular photo spots along with the Doric-style lighthouse rebuilt after the earthquake. Note: After tendering ashore, be on the outlook for a trolley train at the dock that provides a short city tour that may or may not be in operation.
April 20 – Corfu (Kerkia), Greece
Easter Sunday
The Noordam (2,380 passengers) is in port from 8 am to 4 pm with the Costa Magica (with a passenger capacity of 2,688 to 3,470) from 8 am to 2 pm. All aboard the Noordam is at 3:30 pm.
Average Temperature in April: 67 high; 50 low. In May 76 high; 57 low.
HAL Shore Excursion – Panoramic Corfu (9 am to 11:30 am)
This special panoramic drive program, designed for guests who prefer a limited amount of walking, includes the key features this idyllic Greek Island offers. From Bella Vista, a natural balcony perched on the hillside above Paleokastritsa, absorb the panorama of rocky promontories, deeply formed bays and crystal clear turquoise waters as your coach heads back to town. Finally, a scenic drive through the Venetian sector of Corfu Town will charm you before you return to the port. Optionally, you may disembark in town to continue your day exploring the sites and shopping opportunities, making your own way back to the ship.
Corfu, known also as Kerkyra, is the northernmost of the Ionian Islands in Greece. Located off the far northwest coast of the country, Corfu lies in the Adriatic sea, east of Italy and southwest of Albania. Known as the Green Island, Corfu is the greenest and, quite possibly, the prettiest of all Greek islands with emerald mountains, ocher-and-pink buildings, shimmering silver olive leaves. The turquoise waters lap rocky coves and bougainvillea, scarlet roses, and wisteria spread over cottages. Kumquat liqueur is a specialty of the island. Architecture reflects a blend of influences from the Venetians, English, and French.
Cruise ships dock at Corfu’s New Port, which has a terminal with a welcome center. Be sure to pick up an excellent town map from the cruise terminal. before going on HAL’s shore excursion. Some ships will operate shuttles to and from Corfu Town for around $8 that take about 20 minutes (perhaps longer on Easter Sunday). There is also a public bus (Port / Kefalomandouko No.2b Blue Bus Stop) at the end of the large port parking lot that will take you to Old Port Square by the New Fortress for approx €1.50. Transportation may be limited on Easter Sunday.
Easter Sunday is the biggest celebration of the year in Corfu. Hundreds of people (Corfiots) return to their homeland to participate in the Holy Week celebrations from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday. In 2014, Easter Sunday celebrations in Corfu Town are planned to begin at 7 a.m. when Resurrection icons are paraded throughout the streets of Corfu Town. The parades will finish around 10 a.m. At 11:30 a.m., a lunch will be held at the New Fortress Naval Base. The smell of roasting lamb will fill the air. Other traditional foods served on Easter Sunday include chilihourda (the local Easter soup), fogatsa (Easter bread), columbines, red eggs, tzatziki, wine and ouzo.
April 21 – Kotor, Montenegro
This is Orthodox Easter Monday and a national public holiday.
The Noordam is the only ship in port from 8 am to 6 pm. All aboard at 5:30 pm.
Average Temperatures in April: 64 high; 48 low
Get up early around 6:15 am to enjoy the sail-in to the Bay of Kotor. The ship will glide for an hour through the mountains on a 17-mile waterway that some people call Europe’s southernmost fjord. It’s not actually a fjord, as fjords are caused by glacial activity, and the Bay of Kotor is the result of an old river running from the interior to the Adriatic Sea. Still, the views are fjord-like, with mountains rising on both sides of a long, narrow bay that leads to the old walled town of Kotor.
The cruise ship docks across the street from the Old City’s Sea Gate, built in 1555. It’s a short walk of about 50 yards from the pier to the Old Town.
HAL Shore Excursion – Traditional Montenegro (9 am to 1:30 pm)
Embark on a motor coach and relax during the steep climb into the hills for a stunning view of Tivat Bay—the main port of Montenegro. Gravity-defying hairpin bends make the drive both thrilling and rewarding. In the old village of Lastva, your guide will accompany you on brief walking tour to visit a local house and the St Maria Church. You will also learn about olive oil production and enjoy a snack of homemade bread, smoked ham, cheese and wine, all served inside or in front the church. On display is an exhibition of traditional arts and crafts, and you’ll watch a folklore performance by a local group. On returning to Kotor, you’ll stop to explore the city that is known as the jewel of Montenegro. Your guide will take you on a walking tour that will include a visit to St Triphon’s Cathedral.
April 22 – Dubrovnik, Croatia
The Noordam (2,380 passengers) will be in port docking at Gruz outside of the Old Town from 10 am to 11:59 pm with P&O’s Arcadia (with a passenger capacity of 1,952 to 2,388) in port from 11 am to 6 pm. All aboard for the Noordam is at 11:29 pm.
Average Temperature in April: 62 high; 49 low. In May 70 high; 57 low.
No Shore Excursion
Passengers on ships docking in Gruz will enter the Old Town through Pile gate. HAL charges (estimated $14 round trip per person) from the ship to the Pile Gate for a shuttle.
Currency: Croatia uses Croatian kuna
Take a taxi from Gruz to the lower cable car station. Cable Car cost is approximately $17 (94 kn) for a round trip up to Mount Srdj. Reopened in July 2010 after being destroyed in the War Independence (1991-1995), the cable car takes visitors up to the top of Mount Srdj for fantastic views down onto the Old Town and out to sea. Walk downhill a few blocks to the Old Town and enter on the northern side using Buža Gate. Keep walking several “blocks” until the Stradun (Placa) is reached and turn right toward the Pile Gate or left toward the Ploče Gate. Don’t miss the Onophrian Fountain and the oldest pharmacy in the world by Pile Gate and the Bell Tower that strikes on the hour by Ploče Gate on the water on the northeast corner of the Old Town. Tuck into one of the side streets to stop at one of the many sidewalk cafes for something local to drink and eat. Find the fruit and vegetable market. After walking around the Old Town, exit by the Pile Gate for a shuttle or taxi back to the ship.
April 23 – Korčula, Croatia
This is a tender port. The Noordam is the only ship visiting Korčula from 8 am to 5 pm. All aboard at 4:30 pm.
Average Temperature in April: 63 high; 54 low. In May 72 high; 61 low.
HAL Shore Excursion: Charming Korcula (9 am to 12:30 pm)
Journey by motor coach. Korčula is an island of impressive landmarks, quaint villages and lush vineyards. It is the legendary birthplace of Marco Polo and famous for its wine and olives. You’ll discover numerous maritime villages built around inviting coves along steep hillsides, with exotic names like Smokvica, Pupnat and Blato. The largest settlement on the island, Blato, is located virtually in the middle, uphill and inland from Korčula Town. From there you will continue to the western end of the island, to Vela Luka (Old Port) where you’ll stop to explore. Vela Luka is a lovely seaside resort town—take advantage of your time here to enjoy a walk along the seafront promenade or buy a cup of coffee in one of the many cafés (at your own expense). Leaving Vela Luka, you will visit the small village of Smokvica, where the locals claim the best wines in Croatia are produced. You will have an opportunity to taste Posip (white wine) as well as other wines. The wine tasting will be held at the Toreta Winery, where the old, traditional tools used for grape growing and harvesting are on display. Like most single-owner Croatian wineries, the story of Toreta on Korčula is about a family with a long history of wine making that had to stop producing during Communism and is now working to make and market great wines once again. Today Frano Banicevic, the great-grandson of the founder, is head of the winery. His knowledge and passion for producing high quality wines and promoting the Toreta winery was recognized in 2010 when he won the award for the Best Youngest Wine Maker. From Toreta Winery, your motor coach returns to Korčula Town.
April 24 – Split, Croatia
This is a tender port. The Noordam is the only ship in port from 8 am to 5 pm. All aboard at 4:30 pm.
Average Temperature in April: 64 high; 47 low. In May 72 high; 55 low
Split is a big and busy city. It is only a short walk from where the tenders drop off passengers through the city gate. Split is home to the retirement retreat of Roman emperor Diocletian who was born in Croatia. It covers nearly 10 acres and included the emperor’s apartments, villas, several temples, four gates, 16 towers and a military encampment, plus housing for a retinue of soldiers and servants. It took 20,000 slaves 10 years to build and was completed in A.D. 305. Today, the complex is integrated into city life and contains houses, villas, apartments, shops, and restaurants. A section of the “basement” is level with the seafront and is filled with shops. Walk along the Riva, the city’s famous promenade beside the sea, lined with outdoor cafes.
No Shore Excursion
April 25 – Venice, Italy
Arrive at 8 am. The Noordam is the only ship at dock.
Average Temperature in April: 63 high; 47 low. In May 72 high; 56 low.
The sail in to Venice is beautiful, but the sail away is even better.
No Shore Excursion
Use the monorail train (1.30 Euro per person) known as the “people mover” to go from the pier to Piazzale Roma to purchase tickets for vaporatti (water buses). Warning: The monorail train shuts down early in the evening around 8 pm.
Visit Murano Island and Murano Glass (http://www.venetian-glass.info/murano.php) in the Venetian lagoon. Line 41 is a regular vaporetti line which operates from Murano Glass Museum to other stops on the island. It then passes the cemetery, back to Fondamenta Nuove and past the train station to Piazzale Roma. From there it heads out into the Giudecca Canal and into the Bacino di San Marco in front of St Mark’s Square, along past the Arsenale and the Biennial Gardens until it reaches the Fondamente Nove once more and returns to Murano. The line runs every 20 minutes from after 06.00 to just after 20.00.
In the evening, take one of the vaporetti on Route #1 (45 minutes) located at pier D at Piazzale Roma down the Grand Canal to Piazza San Marco (St. Mark’s Square). Enjoy an uncrowded walk around St. Mark’s Square and enjoy the beautiful views of the palaces and lights along the canal as the vaporetti stop in each of the six sestiere or neighborhoods along the Grand Canal. Line #2 without so many stops is faster at 25 minutes.
April 26 – Venice, Italy
The Noordam is in dock until sailaway at 4 pm with MSC Preziosa (with a max capacity of 3,959 passengers). All aboard at 3:30 pm. The sail out of Venice past St. Mark’s is fantastic!
Average Temperature in April: 63 high; 47 low. In May 72 high; 56 low
April 27 – At Sea
The Noordam (2,380 passengers) is in port from 10 am to 6 pm with MSC Preziosa (with a max capacity of 3,959 passengers). All aboard at 5:30 pm.
Average Temperature in April 67 high; 48 low. In May 76 high; 55 low.
HAL Shore Excursion: Magna Grecia Farm Visit (10:15 am to 1:15 pm)
A short drive through picturesque villages and unspoiled scenery surrounding Katákolon brings you to Magna Grecia Farm in the heart of a traditional agricultural region. Visit the olive grove and learn the history of the olive tree and the tasty, peppery fruit produced here. The farm primarily produces Kalamata olives and olive oil, as well as wine. You’ll see the vineyards and encounter farm animals (turkeys, chickens, ducks, pigeons, goats, sheep, rabbits, peacocks and the farm dogs) as well. You are invited to immerse yourself in the beauty and charm of this estate and in the delicious flavors of Greek cuisine by sampling a variety of mezes (appetizer dishes most likely consisting of feta cheese and lamb) along with local wine. Flirt with Greek culture as you watch a short demonstration of Syrtaki dance (Zorba the Greek style), and maybe try a few steps yourself. Lunch will be served—a Mediterranean meal consisting of bread with virgin olive oil, broichetto with olive oil, oregano, basil, tomato, feta cheese and black kalamata olives, fava beans, grilled traditional sausages, tzatziki, feta cheese and dessert. Mineral water is provided with lunch, and you’ll have a chance to try ouzo, the local liqueur that tastes like licorice. During the Easter holidays (Greek Orthodox Holy Week), a special honey cake baked only during the Easter holidays is usually served with fresh fruit, likely strawberries. Possibly a cinnamon and honey grappa will be served as an after dinner drink, along with ouzo.The Magna Grecia Farm is an “agriturismo venture” in the country. The owners of the farm have jobs elsewhere.
April 29 – Nafpilion, Greece
This is a tender port.
The Noordam is the only ship in port from 8 am to 4 pm. All aboard at 3:30 pm.
Average Temperature in April: 64 high; 40 low. In May 74 high; 47 low.
Located on the Aegean Sea on the Peloponnese Peninsula about a 2.5 hour drive southwest of Athens.
From where the tenders dock, cross the street to enter the main part of town. You can clearly see the Fortress from the tender wharf. The Archaeological Museum in Nafplion is located in the beautiful 18th-century Venetian arsenal that dominates Plateia Syntagma. It houses most of the riches recovered from the Palamidhi Fortress.
No Shore Excursion
April 30 – Piraeus (Athens), Greece
The Noordam (2,380 passengers) is in port with the Costa Magica (with a passenger capacity of 2,688 to 3,470) from 8 am to 6 pm. All aboard for the Noordam is at 5:30 pm.
Average Temperature in April: 68 high; 52 low. In May 77 high; 60 low.
HAL Shore Excursion – Corinth Canal Crossing (8:15 am to 1:15 pm)
Depart the pier and drive to the famous four-mile-long and 70-foot-wide Corinth Canal. It has sloping sides that are 170 feet tall and it is 26 feet deep. The canal was built to replace an earlier and rather unique method of connecting two seas—it consisted of a wooden “road” with special grooves greased throughout with animal fat and ships were simply dragged from the one end to the other. The Roman Emperor Nero made the first serious attempt to build a canal but it was never completed due to Nero’s death a year after the planning of the project. The present-day canal was built from 1881 to 1893, and the engineers closely followed the designs made by Nero’s engineers. The canal provides a shorter route to the Greek port of Piraeus instead of a 700-mile trip around the Peloponnese peninsula. Board the Canal Vista for a one hour 15 minute sail through the canal and listen to an interesting narrative on the history and infrastructure of the canal whose origins date back to 600 BC. The Canal Vista is a Greek Liberty type 2-decker wooden vessel built in 2000 that can accommodate about 200 passengers (100 during the winter period), and offers an air conditioned lounge and bar. Refreshments will be offered before you return to the pier. The Corinth Canal connects the Aegean Sea with the Ionian Sea. It cuts through the narrow Isthmus of Corinth and separates the Peloponnesian peninsula from the Greek mainland, thus effectively making the Peloponnese an island. Interestingly, at each end of the canal there are submersible bridges for the seashore roads. These are lowered to the bottom of the canal to allow maritime traffic to pass. Today, about 11,000 ships use the Cornith Canal each year and most are small tourist ships. The Noordam with a beam of 106 feet is too big to transverse the Cornith Canal. The Noordam can and does go through the Panama Canal with its locks only 110 feet wide.
May 1 – Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey
The Noordam is the only ship in port from 7 am to 6 pm. All aboard at 5:30 pm.
Average Temperature in April: 68 high; 52 low. In May 77 high; 59 low.
No visas required for cruise ship passengers who are in port 72 hours or less.
HAL Shore Excursion – Ephesus & Terrace Houses (7:45 am to 11:45 am)
Visit the ruined city of ancient Ephesus, founded by the Carians and Lelegs. You will see the glorious Celsus Library façade, restored and reconstructed in the 1970s, the Great Theatre, and Temple of Hadrian. Then, you will visit the Terrace Houses—a newly excavated section of Ephesus—located opposite Hadrian’s Temple. The wealthy and important people of Ephesus lived in these houses, which are finely decorated with mosaics and frescoes giving a true impression of the ancient lifestyle. Back in Kusadasi, disembark the motor coach for shopping and a carpet demonstration or return directly to the ship.
May 2 – Mykonos, Greece
This is a tender port. The Noordam is the only ship in port from 8 am to 5 pm. All aboard at 4:30 pm.
Average Temperature in April: 66 high; 55 low. In May 72 high; 61 low.
No Shore Excursion
Known for its windmills and blindingly white buildings, Mykonos is one of roughly 220 islands in the South Aegean’s Cyclades. Mykonos Town (or Hora) has narrow, winding cobblestone alleyways that give access to cube-shaped restaurants, residences, and boutiques that somehow seem all connected. The splashes of color — blue from doors and balconies and brightly colored hanging flowers stand out against the stark white walls.The town is easy to navigate by foot. Look for Nikos Taverno (http://www.greek-tourism.com/mykonos/restaurants/tavernanikos/profile.htm) behind the Town Hall on the waterfront for a break in walking — enjoyed al fresco if the weather permits.
May 3 – Rhodes, Greece
The Noordam is the only ship in port from 8 am to 6 pm. All aboard at 5:30 pm.
Average Temperature in April: 67 high; 57 low. In May 74 high; 63 low.
No Shore Excursion
Located 12 miles off the coast of Turkey in the Aegean Sea, Rhodes is the largest of Greece’s 12 Dodecanese islands. Old Town is the oldest inhabited medieval town in Europe. Old Town Rhodes is not laid out in a grid and has roughly 200 streets or lanes that simply have no name. Wander and get lost in the labyrinth before finding your way back to the main street of Sokratous. The most important attraction here is the Palace of the Grand Masters, built in the 14th century by the Knights of St. John. Ships dock at the port located on the north tip of the island, about a 10-minute walk to town.
May 4 – Thira (Santorini), Greece
This is a tender port.
The Noordam is the only ship in port from 8 am to 5 pm. All aboard at 4:30 pm.
Average Temperatures in April: 66 high; 55 low. In May 72 high; 61 low.
HAL Shore Excursion – Discover Ancient Akrotiri (8:45 am 12:45 pm)
During the Neolithic Period, the people who inhabited what today is known as Santorini, called the island Stronghyle or Strongili for its round shape. By 3,200 BC Santorini was an important and wealthy port. The island’s inhabitants enjoyed a high standard of living. They built two-story houses, tilled the earth, and were skilled artists who embraced the the use of color to express beauty. The Minoan influence is obvious especially at Akrotiri where excavations have uncovered houses decorated similar to those found in the Minoan palace in Crete. Around 1650 BC, a violent volcanic eruption caused the center of Stronghyle to sink, leaving a caldera with high cliffs — one of the world’s most dramatic geological sights. Some believe that the lost city of Atlantis is Santorini.
Transfer by local tender boat to Athinios port, to meet a waiting motor coach that will first travel towards the southern part of the island where there are ruins of a famous windmill. A short photo stop allows the opportunity to enjoy the panoramic view and capture amazing photographs. You will next visit the famous archeological site at Akrotiri. The truly amazing ruins will allow you to imagine what life was like before the village was destroyed by the eruption of the volcano of Thira. One question that has yet to be answered by archeologists is why there were no people living in the village at the time of the eruption. From its ruins, Akrotiri was a busy bustling village before the eruption. Ongoing excavations begun in 1967 have revealed buildings that were once two stories, city squares, shops, and businesses. Some of the most famous Greek frescoes can be found in what is left of the once luxurious homes. Transfer by coach from Akrotiri to Fira town where after a short walk you will be taken uphill to the Nomikos Museum. The museum houses a complete reproduction of the frescoes discovered at Akrotiri. These wall paintings comprise the largest and best preserved artistic find from any period known to this day in the Aegean and are one of the most important discoveries in art history in recent years. From the museum, it’s a three minute downhill walk to the cable car. You may decide to stay in the town and do a bit of shopping before making your way back to the ship by taking the cable car down to the pier below. Frescoes excavated from Akrotiri (not reproductions) are on display at the Pre-historical Museum in Fira town.
May 5 – At Sea
The Noordam (2,380 passengers) is in port from 8 am to 6 pm with the Celebrity Silhouette (with a passenger capacity of 2,886). All aboard at 5:30 pm.
Average Temperatures in April: 66 high; 49 low. In May 75 high; 57 low.
HAL Shore Excursion – Ancient Herculaneum (9 am to 1 pm)
Head out by motor coach to the excavated city of Herculaneum—known to the Italians as Ercolano. The upper class Romans built their beautiful villas and maintained luxurious properties in Herculaneum—most of them overlooking the sea. When Mount Vesuvius erupted in AD 79, hot ash charred or consumed all the wood of the structures in Pompeii (Herculaneum’s more famous neighbor). Herculaneum’s destruction was the result of a flood of hot mud that buried, sealed and protected entire buildings. This means that today there are still marvelous inlaid marble floors, mosaics, paintings, and carbonized wood exposed to visitors. Explore on foot with your guide. A stop at a local cameo factory is included before you return to the ship.
Notes: Shade is limited; please dress accordingly. Bring a hat and wear sunscreen. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Use of an audio headset (included) will enhance your tour experience.
HAL Airport transfer from the Noordam to FCO. Flight is scheduled to depart FCO at 11:55 am.
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