Voyages to Antiquity’s 2012 brochure has 21 voyages that explore the ancient civilizations throughout the Mediterranean region, with six new itineraries that expand the brand’s product offerings in the Western Mediterranean region to France and Spain.
Venice to Cannes May 25, Cannes to Venice June 8 visits five countries over 16 days. Special features include St. Mark’s, the Venice Canals, Ravenna, Florence and Pompeii. Additional highlights are the Palace of Diocletian, Corfu, the Greek Theater at Taormina and the splendor of the French Riviera including the Roman amphitheater at Arles and Papal Palace at Avignon.
Istanbul to Rome July 21, Rome to Istanbul August 12 has a pre- or post- cruise stay in legendary Istanbul, visiting Hagia Sophia, the Topkapi Palace and the Blue Mosque. It then goes to ancient Greek and Roman monuments including the city of Ephesus and the Hellenistic ruins of Pergamon in Turkey, ancient Delos, classical Athens, the Greek theater at Taormina in Sicily and Pompeii and Herculaneum. There’s a two-night hotel stay in Rome, complete with a tour exploring the architectural legacy of Augustus.
Rome to Rome August 2 features the scenery and history of the Mediterranean, from the splendors of Imperial Rome and picturesque Corsica to the beauty of the French Riviera. Guests will visit Elba, Avignon, Arles, Barcelona and Florence. A two-night hotel stay in Rome with a tour of Augustus’ legacy is included.
Athens to Cypress October 29 explores castles of the southern Mediterranean, the Citadels of Rhodes, Minoan Crete and Roman Turkey. The trip includes the Kolossi Castle in Cyprus, Mamure Castle in Turkey, and the walled city of the Knights of St John at Rhodes. Guests also visit Knossos, the Greek theater at Epidaurus, Perge, the ruins of Aspedos and the remarkable Lycian tombs carved into the cliffs at Fethiye in Turkey.
Most itineraries are Cruise-Tours with pre-and/or post-cruise hotel stays in legendary Mediterranean cities. Cruise fares include all applicable transfers for purchasing full Cruise-Tour packages or Voyages to Antiquity air for non-cruise-tour itineraries. Guest lecturers and speakers, including those from the prestigious Archaeological Institute of America, complement shore experiences with art, history and culture talks. Regional foods and wines further enhance the experience. Cruise fares from $3,795 include shore excursions with complimentary bottled water, gratuities to shipboard staff, wine, beer and soft drinks at dinner. Guests booking for 2012 by December 31 are eligible for free air from over 60 North American gateways.
Voyages to Antiquity, 877-398-1460, www.voyagestoantiquity.com