Seatrade Cruise Med & 53rd

MEDCRUISE NEWS MedCruise GA in Lisbon The Cunard Queens; Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria sail into Lisbon

Croatian Cruise ports with Airam Diaz, MedCruise President

edCruise VIP and Seatrade Speakers Dinner - The traditional dinner was M celebrated at the New Lisbon Cruise MedCruise member Corfu Port with Aris Terminal (LCT) and attended by more than Batsoulis, MedCruise Senior VP 300 professionals from MedCruise members, Portuguese Authorities, Seatrade speakers, Cruise lines representatives and CLIA Diamond members, this distinctive event gave the starting shot of the fruitful Seatrade Cruise Med 2018

MedCruise VIP and Seatrade Speakers Dinner

he 5th Meeting of the Working Group- China/Asia took place on the 20th of T September. MedCruise member Gibraltar Port Carla Salvadó, WG coordinator, worked Authority and Tourist Board with Nicky together with the participants on the budget Guerrero, BoD - Partnerships & Events and actions for 2019, among others.

MedCruise VIP and Seatrade Speakers Dinner

ItinEra project presentation with Cristina De Gregori, BoD - Projects & Studies MedCruise member Marseille Provence

he 5th Meeting of the Working Group- Studies took place on the 20th of T September, during Seatrade Med exhibition Cristina De Gregori, WG coordinator, updated the participants with the latest actions taken and discussed the next steps for the "Measuring the impact of cruise activities on Costa Brava Cruise Port Presentation ports/cities/destinations" survey. Valeria with Maria Cano, BoD - Communication, Mangiarotti presented the three LNG maps MedCruise member Egyptian Ports Marketing & Promotion developed following the survey results.

2 #PortsTogether #WeAreSocial he conference programme was full of interesting and current topics, T MedCruise members and MedCruise Board of Directors were part of most of the panels as experienced and recognized cruise

industry professionals. In total 13 MedCruise MEDCRUISE NEWS panelists participated at the conferences. Lucy Hockings from BBC World News moderated the State of the industry panel, where MedCruise President, Airam Diaz Pastor, together with David Dingle, Chairman, CLIA Europe and Carnival Cruise Line UK; Stuart Leven, Royal Caribbean International; Gianni Onorato, CEO at MSC Cruices; Costa Crociere President, Neil Palomba; and Pullmantur Group President & CEO, Richard J. Vogel, had the opportunity to discuss latest developments MedCruise member Galataport, Istanbul MedCruise member Portofino and future challenges in the cruise industry.

How the Cruise Industry deals with Air State of the Industry conference panel Opportunities in New Destinations panel Emission Challenges panel

53rd MedCruise General Assembly 53rd MedCruise General Assembly Fam trip to the Sintra Mountains

#53MedCruiseGA #PortsTogether #WeAreSocial

he 53rd Medcruise General Assembly dealt with internal matters of the T association. MedCruise Members had the opportunity to discuss and plan future Organisational teams of MedCruise & actions together with the BoD and MedCruise President according to the Working Plan Port of Lisbon after the 53rd MedCruise presented in the General Assembly held in Fam trip to the Sintra Mountains General Assembly 2017 in Toulon (France).

Bringing the Med Together 3 MedCruise Diary 2019 MedCruise members

CLIA Cruise360, Fort Lauderdale ALANYA LIVORNO 2000 MEDCRUISE NEWS 2-8 April ASHDOD MADEIRA PORTS AZORES MALAGA BALEARIC ISLANDS MARSEILLE BARCELONA MONACO BASTIA/NORTH CORSICA MOTRIL-GRANADA BURGAS NORTH TYRRHENIAN SEA CABO VERDE PORTS ODESSA Seatrade Cruise Global, Miami CANARIAN PORTS PATRAS 8-11 April CARTAGENA PIRAEUS CASTELLON PORTIMAO CENTRAL ADRIATIC SEA PORTOFINO CENTRAL-NORTHERN TYRRHENIAN SEA RIJEKA CENTRAL TYRRHENIAN SEA SARDINIAN SEA CEUTA SETE CONSTANTA SIBENIK CORFU SOUDA/CHANIA 54th MedCruise GA, Kusadasi COSTA BRAVA CRUISE PORTS SOUTHERN ADRIATIC SEA 7-10 May CYPRUS PORTS SPLIT DUBROVNIK, KORCULA THE STRAIT EASTERN LIGURIAN SEA TANGIER EASTERN SICILIAN SEA TARRAGONA EGYPTIAN PORTS TENERIFE PORTS FRENCH RIVIERA PORTS THESSALONIKI GIBRALTAR TOULON-VAR PROVENCE GIOIA TAURO TRABZON 5th Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum, HERAKLION TUNISIAN PORTS Athens, 28-29 May HUELVA VALENCIA IGOUMENITSA VALLETTA IONIAN SEA VARNA ISTANBUL VENICE KAVALA VOLOS KOPER WESTERN LIGURIAN SEA KOTOR WESTERN SICILIAN SEA Professional Development Course, KUSADASI/ANTALYA/BODRUM ZADAR & Savona LISBON 25-27 June Associate members ALFASHIP MMS ALGERIA CRUISE SERVICES PATRONAT DE TURISME COSTA BRAVA CEMAR PEREZ Y CIA CEUTA TOURISM PUERTOS DEL ESTADO COUNCIL OF SANT CARLES DE LA RAPITA SALAMIS ORGANISATION COUNTY P. A. OF DUBROVNIK SAMER & CO SHIPPING CRUISE SERVICES MONACO SCANDINAVIAN NEAR EAST AGENCY Seatrade Europe, Hamburg DP WORLD LIMASSOL SEAWAY SHIPPING & TOURIST SERVICES 11-13 Septmber INTERCRUISES SHORESIDE & PORT SERVICES TENERIFE TOURISM BOARD KVARNER COUNTY TOURISM OFFICE TERMINAL NAPOLI SPA KYRIAKIS TRAVEL S.A. TRAINOSE LA GOULETTE CRUISE TERMINAL TRANSCOMA CRUISE & TRAVEL LANZAROTE TOURISM TURA TURIZM MEDOV SRL TURISME DE BARCELONA MH BLAND VAR PROVENCE CRUISE CLUB

4 #PortsTogether #WeAreSocial Balearic Islands Barcelona

Menorca Penedès PORT FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS

ell aware of its charm, Mahon, along and hippy markets in Ibiza; Menorca tour for arcelona has fun activities for all the with the delightful neighbouring ships calling Mahon and city sightseeing and family! The city has countless plans to W town of Es Castell, pays attention to Roman ruins tour in Alcudia. B guarantee visitors won't get bored, the finer details year after year to ensure it Some new thematic tours are proving whether they're a thrill-seeker who enjoys continues to win over its visitors' hearts, with popular especially those featuring local sailing, or a foodie or culture vulture. Visitors the port in this town being one of the main gastronomy. can wander among sharks, stroke a dolphin, attractions. Charming, simple, with very The five ports are expecting a total of 842 enjoy an adrenalin-fueled roller-coaster ride, interesting culinary and leisure offerings plus calls in the coming year, with a total of eat as if they were at home, enjoy the historical legacy of its own architecture. 2,733,186 passengers. breathtaking views of Barcelona and the Classic tours continue to hold their appeal Works are under way for the extension of peace and quiet of its parks… there are across the five ports managed by the Port North Poniente Quay Esplanade, due to be endless plans for kids and adults. Authority of the Balearic Islands: Palma, Ibiza, completed by the end of 2019. A new tour is to Penedès, for wine tourism, Mahon, Alcudia and La Savina. These include: walking and culture. Penedès region, located city tour and Drach Caves (Portocristo, MedCruise contact: Francisca Leal Albons just 30 minutes from Barcelona and Manacor) from Palma de Majorca; city tour [email protected] Tarragona, blessed with wonderful beaches and protected by mountains in the interior, has a remarkable landscape characterized by endless vineyards dotted with country houses, unique historical sites and a host of Bastia/North Corsica wineries that have made the Penedès region internationally famous. Penedès is home to more than 80 wineries, most of them family-owned for generations, where one can experience first-hand the great Mediterranean lifestyle. Tasting wines is just the beginning: find the most authentic wine tours, indulge yourself with brunches or picnics with local products, get in touch with nature just walking or cycling along vineyard trail and discover why this is the homeland of cava. In 2019, with 838 cruise calls Port of Barcelona expects to have a sustainable growth, working to increase the added value for the region and promote the most environmental friendly ships.

pirit and Flavours city tour is a brand a brand new eco-tour, starting with a guided MedCruise contact: Mar Perez new shore excursion in Bastia to stroll to the aromatic garden to see and touch [email protected] S discover the old town in a very unique plants and trees from all over the world and way with different stops. Firstly a perfume learn their specific properties. Then, visit the workshop, so you can leave with your own essential oils distillery to learn about the created sample of perfume made of organic process of transformation from plants to oil. plants and scents from Corsica, then a biscuit After the visit to the distillery, you'll make your artisan who makes you discover and taste the own organic cosmetic during a workshop with sweet traditions of Corsica including the an expert and take your own creation away. To famous ‘canistrelli’, next an artisan, who plays end, a beautiful tasting with organic and local with our sacred and secular traditions and will products will wait for you on the terrace. tell you all about them, especially ‘l'ochju’ (the Bastia and North Corsica ports will welcome evil eye") story, and finally a drink tasting in 27 different ships in 2019, nine of those being the oldest boutique of Bastia, classed as a maiden callers. historical monument where Corsican history and industry meet. MedCruise contact: Anne-Marie Spinosi The Bordeo farm, 50 minutes from Bastia, is [email protected]

Bringing the Med Together 5 Cabo Verde ports Burgas

Verde. The main attractions are: the Pelourinho, a white marble column and dating from the early 16th century. It was a symbol of municipal power, and of slavery as it was were rebellious slaves were punished publicly; The Church Of Nossa Senhora do Rosário, the first documented church to be built in the tropics, and the only one to survive in Cidade Velha to this day, it was the privileged place of prayer PORT FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS PORT FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS

PORT FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS until the Cathedral was built; The Cathedral was an ambitious project, with stone coming Sozòpol from Portugal for its construction, work began in 1556, and was completed more than 100 ozòpol is an ancient seaside town years later, in 1693. But its walls were short located 30km south of Burgas on the lived and today it is only a ruin; In the centre southern Bulgarian Black Sea Coast. of the town, downtown area, you can walk S ulcão do Fogo is the highest peak of One of the major resorts in the country, it is along Rua Banana, the first street developed Cabo Verde at 2,829mtr. The first climb known for the Apollonia art and film festival by the Portuguese in sub-Saharan Africa, with V recorded took place on April 7th, 1826. (which takes place in early September) that is beautiful houses. The volcano's climb begins with an named after one of the town's ancient names. In 2019, Cabo Verde ports are expecting 102 approximately 30-minute walk from Portela, The first settlement on the site dates back cruise calls and will also be starting the one of the towns in Chã das Caldeiras, to the to the Bronze Age. Undersea explorations in building of 1,000sq mtr Mindelo Cruise foot of the volcano. From this point, begins the the region of the port reveal relics of Terminal on São Vicente Island. Work is to real challenge of reaching the highest point of dwellings, ceramic pottery, stone and bone start in June 2019 and be completed by Cabo Verde. On days of good visibility, one can tools from that era. October 2020 at a cost of Euros29m. see a large part of the Cabo Verde Islands from The current town was founded in the 7th the ridge. century BC by Greek colonists. The symbol of MedCruise contact: Gilson Cruz Cidade Velha is the main city of the island the town – the anchor, present on all coins [email protected] of Santiago, near to Praia - capital of Cabo minted by Apollonia since the sixth century BC, is proof of the importance of its maritime trade. The rich town soon became an important cultural centre. The ancient icons and magnificent woodcarving are a remarkable Cartagena accomplishment of the craftsmanship of these times. The architecture of the houses in the old town from the renaissance period makes it a unique place to visit today. Jumilla. The great moisture retention South of Burgas is Strandja mountain. On capacity of the soil, allows vines to an area of 116,000 hectares is situated Strandja survive in the drought conditions of Nature Park, the largest protected area in the area, giving the grapes a unique Bulgaria. In the park there are 5 nature taste. A modern winery equipped with reserves, 14 protected areas and many natural the latest winemaking systems and landmarks. There are 54 species of mammals stainless steel tanks. End this tour and 261 species of birds in the park. tasting this wonderful wine delight! Strandja Nature Park is recognized as one The five must-see destinations of the most interesting oases of rare species accessible from port of Cartagena are and habitats on the Balkan Peninsula and in Roman Cartagena, Murcia, The Spanish the European Union. Here are preserved plant Horse, La Manga of Mar Menor and species from the Tertiary era, when Europe is Jumilla: vineyards and wineries. covered with glaciers and all the lush 18 new ships will be visiting the port vegetation dies. The Nature Park team offers of Cartagena in 2019, as well as 164 ship guides for various walking and eco-routes. he Region of Murcia holds three wines calls in total with 240,000 passengers. with denomination of origin: Bullas, MedCruise contact: Stoicho Dimov T Yecla and Jumilla. It is in the northern MedCruise contact: Hortensia Sanchez [email protected] part of the Region of Murcia where we find [email protected] Jumilla, in the Sierra del Carche National Park. The winery Hacienda del Carche-Casa de la Ermita has created a new wine museum, where visitors are be able to learn about the history of the region, the culture and tradition of this area. In this new shore excursion, guests will explore the vineyards and witness the winemaking process in one of the most popular wineries of

6 Castellon Port Authority of Central Tyrrhenian Sea

Salerno PORT FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS

Peñíscola Castle

n the province of Castellón and 40 miles tourists in the summer. north of the port of Castellón, sits the Visitors who are keen on cycling, climbing, I seaside town of Peñíscola, popularized by making cheese with their own hands, learning Game of Thrones. (The iconic Papa Luna the craft of bread making, tasting extra virgin castle, built by the Knights Templar in the olive oil from millenary olive trees or reforest early 13th century, filled in for the fictional Las Palmas Dessert (one of the eight natural slaver city of Meereen in GOT.) The castle’s parks we have in the province) will be delighted many historical occupants include Papa Luna to discover Castellón as an exciting region. himself: Pope Benedict XIII, who fought for his Port of Castellon will have six calls during legitimacy at the height of the Papal Schism 2019, which is a significant increase for the in 1411 and perished inside the walls a decade Spanish port. Two new companies will be later. The castle and surrounding buildings of calling the port this year, Marella Cruises and the Old Town are situated on a tombolo Oceania Cruises. Additionally, it will welcome or foodies, a tour to experience the (mound connected to the mainland) in the luxury , Crystal Esprit. production of Buffalo Mozzarella in Mediterranean Sea. The castle’s rooftop offers F Salerno is a must. The mozzarella di panoramic views of the town, wharves, MedCruise contact: Susana Soria bufala is one of the best known cheeses in the mountains, and sandy beaches flocked by [email protected] world, it is one of the first dairy products in Italy to be exported abroad, and has a history that dates back to the Middle Ages. The uniqueness of buffalo mozzarella is given by essential characteristics of milk origin and Central Adriatic Ports processing of mozzarella. The breeding of buffaloes of the Italian Mediterranean breed and the production of Authority - Porto of Ancona Campania buffalo mozzarella D.O.P. find their favourite place of choice in the province of Salerno. ‘Pala Gozzi’ also known as ‘The Visit one of the excellences of these agri- Apparition of the Virgin’ is dated 1520, food activities in the Salerno area, a certified and is the first dated known work of organic farm, where the necessary fodder is the artist. ‘The Crucifixion’ represents grown to feed the 600 buffaloes that are raised the most advanced phase of the artist’s in stalls with showers and brushes, rubber work and was completed in 1558, when mats and music. State-of-the-art milking Titian was approaching seventy years techniques safeguard animal welfare, hygiene of age. and milk quality; milking robots allow buffalo As well as these two works, visitors self-management with a more natural and will be able to see works of art by other less stressful life rhythm. Each animal is renowned Italian artists such as Carlo treated only with homeopathic remedies. Crivelli, Lorenzo Lotto, Francesco Taste the mozzarella, which is produced Podesti plus many more. exclusively with company milk and the The excursion continues with a processing is done entirely by hand, in full guided walk exploring the historic compliance with a scrupulous hygiene protocol. centre of Ancona, including a The five must-see attractions of the Salerno wonderful view of the natural harbour or 2019, there will be an increase of area are: Amalfi and the Amalfi Coast as well as a walk along its streets to admire nearly 10,000 cruise passengers to the (UNESCO World Heritage Site); The the beautiful old buildings and churches, F port of Ancona, totalling 77,000 guests Archeological Park of Paestum (part of a dating back to different eras and belonging to which is an increase of 15%. UNESCO World Heritage site); The Castle of different architectural styles. Passengers visiting the port may partake in Arechi & the Garden of Minerva – Hortus Other popular tours from Ancona are a new tour called ‘Titian and Titian: two Sanitatis of the Medical School of Salerno; Conero Riviera and Natural Park, Jesi masterpieces in comparison’. Titian was an Capri and Salerno and its waterfront. historical city centre and vineyards, the Italian painter, and the most important For 2019 Naples and Salerno are expecting Frasassi caves and Urbino ancient city, a member of the 16th century Venetian school, 520 cruise calls bringing 1,500,000 UNESCO World Heritage Site. and has two works of art on display in passengers. Ancona: ‘Pala Gozzi’ and ‘the Crucifixion’ hung MedCruise contact: Guido Vettorel in the renovated Civic Art Gallery, located five MedCruise contact: Barbara Casolla [email protected] minutes from the centre of Ancona. [email protected]

Bringing the Med Together 7 Ceuta Corfu

the Desnarigo Castle and the cliffs of Achilleion Palace Hacho Mount. Another popular tour is a visit to the Monumental Complex of the Royal Walls, which runs along the borderline of ancient Ceuta. Outside of the walls is the Royal Moat, navigable since the era of Portuguese rule. In olden days the Bridge of Christ, PORT FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS PORT FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS

PORT FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS which connects the Mallorquines Fortress to the Walls, could be raised. At a certain time in the afternoon a cannon shot would be fired to signal popular eco-tour when calling Corfu is that the bridge would be raised, to visit the birthplace of the multi- therefore isolating the city from the award winning olive oil ‘The Governor’ outskirts. A The Dafnis family, producers of ‘The Along the walls it is possible to visit Governor’, welcome and introduce you to an Saint Peter’s Fortress with the Plaza de unforgettable olive oil experience. An Santiago, Saint Anne’s Fortress where he Desnarigado is a tourist boat with a experience which travels you back in time, the ancient horse grooms used to live, and Saint capacity of 40 passengers which makes a teaches you about the Dafnis olive history. Paul’s Fortress. There are two audio visual T daily journey along the coast of Ceuta. Learn all the truths and myths of olive oil, shows about the history of the Walls and the city The tour lasts approximately 45 minutes and from olive experts, taste one of the highest of Ceuta, both are free admission. There is also a starts at España Dock, taking in the Royal Mint phenolic olive oils in the world and receive a museum with travelling exhibitions in Saint towards South Bay, the Ribera Beach, Fuente certificate of participation. Ignatius’ Ravelin. Caballos, the Painter’s Battery, Cala and Fortin Other popular tours are Corfu’s historic del Sarchal (the former women’s prison), centre: a scene out of a classic film; UNESCO MedCruise contact: Victor M. Jiménez Camino de Ronda (the old Roman road), The has declared the island’s historic centre a [email protected] Marabout de Sidi Abbas, Desnarigado Hold with World Heritage site. The stately buildings with neoclassical influences will dazzle you. Who could not be moved by the Palace of St Michael and St Georgiou, the Liston Arcade, the Reading Society, the Catholic cathedral, Constanta the Maitland rotunda, the Ionian Parliament and the Kapodistrias family mansion. Or maybe a visit to the Achillion Palace, the island’s imperial past and considered one of Museum is the stunning Roman Edifice, the most glamorous and luxurious constructed in the 4th century AD, and the destinations in Greece. largest of its kind in south east Europe. Empress Elizabeth of Austria-Hungary, the Just next to the tremendous Museum legendary Sissi, chose Corfu to build her visitors will get the chance to see the largest palace, a place where she found consolation Roman Mosaic from south east Europe. after her son Rudolph’s suicide. It is an At the centre of Ovidius Square, the statue elegant Pompeian-style building with ofthe exiled Roman poet is exhibited. Known luxurious, neoclassical living rooms. In the also as the singer of tender love, Ovidius beautiful gardens you’ll admire the famous Publius Nasos was credited with the first statue of Achilles in his death throes. written description of the ancient region and In 2019, 416 vessels are expected with its people. approximately 780,000 visitors, a growth of 7% Also, not to be missed is the Ancient Citadel in passengers by 32 cruise lines with a variety of Histria, the Tropaeum Traiani & Monarchal of new ships including; ’ Costa Picnick of St. Andrew’s Cave and the Venezia, Princess Cruises’ hile visiting Constanta, one of the Romanian Folk Show. and and Norwegian Cruise easiest and best way to learn about The port is expecting two cruise calls for Lines’ Norwegian Epic. W the city is to enjoy the City tour. 2019. Discover the ancient beauty and understand MedCruise contact: Aris Batsoulis the culture of one of oldest cities of Europe by MedCruise contact: Teodor Patrichi [email protected] visiting many sites and especially the Roman [email protected] Ruins. On the way to the History and Archaeology Museum, visitors will have the chance to see the oldest part of the city which exhibits buildings dating from 19th Century. The Museum displays exhibits gathered from all over Dobrogea. Among the wonderful sites to be seen and photographed in the

8 Costa Brava ports Dubrovnik PORT FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS

he five best selling shore excursions and reflect about what you are experiencing for Costa Brava ports are: Medieval as all the tours go through amazing T Villages; Tossa de Mar combined with landscapes away from tarmac and crowds. beach and leisure; Barcelona; Girona and the An experiencial tour available from Dali Museum. These five tours are all within a Palamós is local breakfast in a typical rustic 2-hour drive of the ports. house in the middle of a vineyard. Breakfast is Also available is an eco-tour by burricleta. served with breathtaking views, followed by a wo exciting tours for the more The burricleta is an electric bicycle with tour of the compound to learn the entire adventurous traveller from Dubrovnik assisted pedalling. It’s like a normal procedure of production. Finally, visitors will port are firstly, a Jeep Safari. This conventional bike but it has a small electric be able to taste the wines and enjoy the T excursion offers a unique opportunity to see motor incorporated into it which helps to flavours. the spectacular scenery of the Konavle valley make the climbing easier and riding on the The 2019 season looks busy for Palamós, 46 from a completely different perspective. flat a pleasure. The tours are the spirit of the calls are expected bringing 54,000 passengers. Driving with the high quality jeeps, you will burricleta experience. They fit in with, and Nine cruise lines will call at port of Palamós have the chance to get in touch with the respect, the surroundings and the local with maiden calls from Oceania’s Marina and nature in your own way. A drive through the society as well as offering an opportunity to Marella Cruises’ Marella Explorer 2. valley will first take you to the viewpoint ‘Sivi learn about the local culture and heritage. Soko’ (Gray Falcon) in the hills, which offers a The steady pace of the electric bike allows MedCruise contact: Maria Cano magnificent view of the valley and the you to travel over long distances effortlessly [email protected] Adriatic coast. After descending back to the valley, you can visit the charming seaside village of Molunat, which is the southernmost settlement on the Adriatic coast. Cyprus ports The second tour is a ‘Blue Trail’ Horse Riding Tour. Horse riding on the trails today is a experience. You will be offered a they can visit the historic short lesson and then an experienced trainer Limassol Marina centre with its beautiful will lead you through the scenic countryside buildings and local cafes, of Konavle. Idyllic pastures and beautiful stroll on the sea surroundings – a vacation both horse and promenade and visit the rider will be sure to enjoy. old Limassol Port with its Cruise traffic is expected to reach last cafes and restaurants as year's levels with a slight increase. Projected well as nearby Limassol numbers for 2019 are 550 cruise calls and Marina. 810,00 passengers. A unique and fun New visitors include Costa Cruises’ Costa experience to meet and Venezia, Viking Ocean Cruises’ Viking ride the friendly Cyprus Jupiter, Royal Caribbean Cruises’ Jewel of the donkeys in their own Seas, Norwegian Cruise Lines’ Norwegian environment is a great Pearl, and TUI Cruises’ Mein Schiff 6. idea for all the family. DPA is in the process of acquiring building © Limassol Tourism Board Tourism © Limassol Meet the friendly donkeys permission for the construction of new berths imassol is a destination that offers and enjoy a ride through at Batahovina basin, approximately 450mtr of excellent and variant opportunities the peaceful Paphos countryside before new operative quays with two ferry ramps. L both for year-round excursions and for arriving at the abandoned 14th Century New berths are expected to be operative in the those who prefer, a visit to the vibrant City of Monastery, ‘Panayia tou Sindi’. first quarter of 2023. Limassol located just a breath away from port. UNESCO has recently expertly restored it. In DPA in cooperation with the City of The unique UNESCO sites offer a look in the 1997, this project was granted the prestigious Dubrovnik is implementing the programme past combined with a taste of the local cuisine EUROPA NOSTRA award and was recognised ‘Respect the City’ which aims to harmonise and the opportunity to dream in the birthplace as a World Cultural Heritage monument. Back tourist flows and migrations through city of goddess Aphrodite in Paphos. to the farm where, a typical BBQ meal infrastructure, where cruise passengers On the other hand, another option is to head accompanied by home cooked specialities, represent significant percentage of daily north towards the Troodos mountains and will be waiting. To finish, a show of Cypriot visitors. The aim of the programme/project is discover the hinterland of Cyprus, with its folk dancing and music. to find optimal solutions for sustainable picturesque villages, monasteries, wine tourism development in the destination. vineyards, boutique wineries, great scenery MedCruise contact: DP World Limassol, and local traditions at Lefkara village. Charles Meaby - General Manager MedCruise contact: Katarina Varez For those interested to discover the city, [email protected] [email protected]

Bringing the Med Together 9 French Riviera Port System

Cannes Authority of MEDCRUISE NEWS the Eastern Sicilian Sea PORT FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS PORT FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS PORT FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS PORT FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS PORT FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS

he four French Riviera ports of Cannes, with a visit to the typical Provencal markets. Antibes, Nice and Villefranche sur mer A visit to Marineland, an animal exhibition T are expecting to welcome 352 port calls park in Antibes is great for all the family. One rom Catania it is possible to reach and 670,000 passengers in 2019. Maiden of the biggest parks of its kind in the world, it various interesting and well-known callers to the ports will be Celebrity Cruises’ receives more than 1.2million visitors per Fdestinations such as Mount Etna, Celebrity Edge, Azamara Cruises’ Azamara year. The park has whales, dolphins, sea lions, Taormina and Syracuse. Furthermore, some Pursuit, MSC Cruises’ MSC Seaview, Crystal sharks and polar bears to see. new proposals are now being offered to Cruises’ Crystal Esprit, Ponant Cruises’ Le The top five must-see destinations cruisers arriving at the Port of Catania. Bougainville and Star Clipper’s Flying Clipper. available from French Riviera ports are: Etnaland, a tour for all generations and A new walking tour on offer from Cannes Grasse and the perfume factory with museum; Piazza Armerina are two examples of novelties takes in the old world charm of the town. The Monaco; Eze; Nice and St Paul de Vence. Etnaland, an island of fun, filled with leisure half -day walking tour features the Old opportunities: from mainly playful activities in Quarter, Le Suquet and La Croisette where the MedCruise contact: Anne-Sophie Peyran the Themepark and in the Aquapark, to Cannes Film Festival is held, and finishes [email protected] didactic ones in its Prehistoric Park and its special botanical trail, attend a variety of edutainment shows and practical hands-on laboratories.The Themepark is considered to be the jewel in the crown of automated Gibraltar attractions. During spring and fall season it is open at daytime, while in summer it turns on its magical lights for a night time opening, ith Gibraltar only being 6.7sq km, calcite formations, and last but not least - a giving you a thrill of amusement in an there is an abundance of activities lake of crystal clear water, nearly 36mtr long enchanting atmosphere. Highly spectacular and attractions for all. Tours for estimated to hold over 170,000 litres. W amusement rides: extreme ones like The 2019 not to be missed include; The Rock Tour, The cave is totally in its original natural Storm, Etnaland Tower, Quasar, Vortigo; WW2 Tunnels (Fortress Gibraltar), Gibraltar state (although it is fully lit). One of the sites adventurous one as Eldorado, The School, Vault, Round the Rock Helicopter Tours and visited during this tour is a beautiful Revo-Rock; the boats of the Love Lagoon, the The Mediterranean Steps. underground lake and fortunately for the family coaster Hip Hop Coaster, the ‘splash For a special experience, visitors should visitor, who will no doubt not want to forget battle’ Kaos and many others. try the Lower St Michael’s Cave Tour: Whilst this wonderful speleological experience, Piazza Armerina, where it is possible to see the upper section of St Michael’s Cave has photography is permitted. The tour normally the UNESCO site Villa Romana del Casale as been known for over 2000 years, it was only lasts around three hours. well as the medieval village and baroque in 1942 that Lower St Michael’s Cave was Those wanting more of an adrenaline rush churches. All cruisers are also offered a discovered - a cavern was found, with will be pleased to know the ‘Round the Rock didactic, complimentary food and wine tasting. several chambers, which may have been Helicopter Tour’ is planned to start in May The year 2019 sees an increase in cruise sealed for 20,000 years. 2019. calls and passenger numbers for the Port of This extraordinary beautiful cavern is Each flight will take off from Gibraltar Catania with 113 calls bringing 219,200 remarkable for three reasons: the size of the Airport and will fly around the Rock in one passengers. main chambers, the profusion and variety of direction before reversing direction to repeat the flight in the other direction – MedCruise contact: Ilaria Tomasi this in order to ensure that [email protected] passengers on both sides of the helicopter get uninterrupted views of the Rock. Each flight will last between 10 and 15 minutes. This tour will allow cruise passengers the opportunity to take photos of their cruise ship with the Rock in the background.

MedCruise contact: Suyanne Catania [email protected]

10 Huelva Igoumenitsa

he Port Authority of Huelva has centuries its Gothic-Mudejar style contrasts Nekromanteion invested in the surrounding area, with the frescoes of painter Vázquez Díaz and T building a riverside walk of eight is a key to understanding the Discovery that hectares near the city. This estuary walk would change our perception of the world. recently opened and has been well received. In the Caravels Wharf are replicas of the three This has positively improved the Port-City ships that discovered America: the caravels integration because it offers citizens and Pinta and Niña, and the vessel Santa Maria. All tourists a beautiful and large recreational area. this in a unique natural setting that will make In addition, the Port of Huelva has some future you feel a part of that glorious adventure.

projects in which Levante Wharf will undergo PORT FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS some changes, creating a marina and also a MedCruise contact: Manuel Vega leisure zone which cruises passengers can joy. [email protected] At the end of the Middle Age, ccessible from the Greek port of the port of Huelva experienced a Igoumenitsa are the recently period of great splendour. A introduced tours of Parga, Christopher Columbus' first Nekromanteion and Preveza. expedition set sail for the New Parga is a charming seaside town set in an World from the dock of Palos de la attractive bay with a small green islet at its Frontera in 1492. The Columbus centre. The old quarter is reminiscent of a Places have been declared a Greek island settlement and its waterfront is historic artistic heritage. lively with cafés, taverns and shops. Among The Monastery of La Rábida, is its features there is a 17th Century Venetian the location where discoverer Castle, originally built by the Normans in the Christopher Columbus planned 14th Century, a number of churches and an his trip, safe in this refuge ecclesiastical and folkloric museum. belonging to the Franciscan order. Not far from Parga lies the important Built during the 14th and 15th archaeological site of Nekromanteion (Oracle of the Dead), near the Acheron River. According to ancient belief, it is close to where the souls of the dead would begin their journey up river to reach Lake Acherusia and the Gates of Hades. The oracle is mentioned in Homer’s Port Network Authority of the Odyssey and its cult clearly existed for millennia, with findings at the site dating back to prehistoric times. It is a place of unique Ionian Sea - Port of Taranto serenity and mystical power. Considered one of the Ionian’s prettiest seaside towns, Parga combines a wealth of history with a relaxing etting lost among the olive groves and treadle wheel. holiday atmosphere. vineyards dotting the countryside near Falanto port service center, the new Preveza is first mentioned by name in a 13th Taranto, cruise passengers calling this infrastructure aimed at providing dedicated G Century record of its conquest by the Genoese, port, may enjoy an experience based tour in services to passengers and upgrading the then allied to the Byzantine Empire. Close to one of the many ancient fortified farmhouses waterfront is in the pipeline. The investment Preveza is the fascinating archaeological site called masserie, which are increasingly being covers the building of the new Multipurpose of Nicopolis. Literally “Victory City”, it was turned into restaurants and hotels. Here a Service Center, including a passenger founded by Octavian after crushing Mark local chef will teach the guests how to bake terminal to receive and welcome travellers Anthony’s fleet in the Battle of Actium (31 BC). the traditional fragrant Apulian bread and to visiting the Ionian City. The Centre will be Nicopolis flourished as capital of the Roman make mozzarella (soft cheese) with hot milk. named after the mythical hero ‘Falanto’, the province Epirus Vetus, but from the 9th Tucked away in Puglia, the heel of the boot, founder of the city of Taranto, and will be Century AD onward barbarian invasions drove Grottaglie is a small gem and a new shorex ready by September 2019. it to decline. Visitors can see the city walls, a destination from Taranto. Guests will be This year Marella Cruises is set to call five monument to Octavian, a theatre, an Odeon, charmed and artistically involved in this times plus one visit from Noble Caledonia. All the Nympheon, early Christian basilicas and a village with earthenware laden roofs and of the calls are new ships to the port. Around nearby archaeological museum. pottery workshops, as Grottaglie boasts an 8,793 transiting passengers are expected. Under construction at the port the 2,300sq ancient tradition of ceramic art. During the mtr Terminal 3 building as well as a 197mtr tour an expert artisan will guide visitors in the MedCruise contact: Silvia Coppolino long finger pier for the mooring of 300,000 dwt creative process of making a vase with a [email protected] ships.

MedCruise contact: Anna Pyroti [email protected]

Igoumenitsa

Bringing the Med Together 11 Koper Porto di Livorno 2000 MEDCRUISE NEWS PORT FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS PORT FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS PORT FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS PORT FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS PORT FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS

recently introduced tour from Port of other homemade beverages. Koper is a trip to the Lipica Stud Farm One of Koper’s most special experiences, is he port of Livorno is expecting 400 calls A with a carriage ride and picnic style Private Home Dining, which is a unique and 825,000 passengers in 2019 lunch. Historical Lipica Stud Farm, is not opportunity to connect with Slovenian T including eight new ships; Viking known only for magnificent white Lipizzaner culture and meet a Slovenian family. Guests Cruises’ Viking Jupiter, Celebrity Cruises’ horses, but also for some unique and will be welcomed by local hosts under the Celebrity Infinity and Celebrity Edge, memorable experiences. Lipica estate is shadows of 100-years old walnut trees where Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Jade and surrounded by beautiful green scenery, which they will sample local aperitifs and hear Norwegian Pearl, Princess Cruises’ Sky is perfect for an open air picnic. Guests firstly about the history of the region. Afterwards, Princess and TUI Cruises’ Marella Discovery II visit Stud Farm, where they could admire the the owner takes the guests into the wine and Marella Explorer II. stallions and history of the farm, before cellar to share knowledge of wine production An experience based tour available from the special transfer. along with some wine tasting. After the port is ‘Italian food Cooking Lesson with Afterwards, the guests are taken with educational part of the tour, the family serves Market Tour in Livorno’. Visitors will learn to vintage carriages drawn by Lipizzaner horses, some homemade delicacies, made with cook from a professional Italian chef, making to their very own lunch location. The picnic traditional recipes. an entire meal under his supervision and area, is rustically decorated with piles of hay In 2019, numbers around 100,000 tasting what they prepare at the end. as the seating area surrounding a wooden passengers and approximately 70 calls are The activity begins at the Central Food table full of locally made Karst delicacies, as expected in Koper. Market where visitors choose and pick the prosciutto, local cheeses, Karst rolled best fresh ingredients, also feeling the lively dumplings and many more, with of course a MedCruise contact: Bojan Babic atmosphere of an authentic Italian market. variety of wine from nearby vineyards and [email protected] The 4.5 hours cooking class will continue in a pleasant location in the town centre, where they first learn cooking tips about the menu and prepare all the ingredients. Lisbon The Italian chef will teach them how to make every element of the meal, from appetizers to dessert, including a lesson on how to make pasta from raw ingredients. At the end of the cooking lesson, visitors will have the opportunity to taste everything during a pleasant lunch, paired with a glass of the best Italian wine or other drinks. A popular eco-tour is the ‘Cycling from Pisa to Lucca’ shore excusion. This excursion includes an English-speaking guide, hybrid bikes and helmet rental and transfer from ship to starting point and back. The total riding distance is about 30 miles rrábida & Setúbal Market is a new tour the chance to browse the displays of fresh on flat terrain. They will ride through the from the port of Lisbon. From the city, fish, seafood and vegetable vendors, before beautiful Pisa city centre, along the river front A visitors cross the Tagus River south returning back to Lisbon. to discover the many enchanting spots of this towards the town of Azeitão. Here they will Also available from the Portuguese capital medieval city, passing by Miracle Square, visit the oldest cellar of the region, which has are a number of eco tours; Lisbon by tram; the where the Leaning Tower is, and the Cathedral been in the same family for more than seven Lisbon Hills by Segway; A stroll through and Baptistery are situated. After Pisa, visitors generations, and learn how they make the Lisbon; Lisbon by electric tuk tuk, and Lisbon will ride to Lucca, Tuscany's jewel which is wine and taste the local Moscatel. by bicycle. encircled by a massive wall with a road on the Continuing towards Setubal, they’ll travel The port expects 332 cruise calls in 2019, top on which you can ride. They will spend past Arrábida Natural Park. The road offers a bringing 600,000 passengers. There will be 22 about 2 hours here, visiting the magnificent fascinating panorama of the Atlantic and the maiden callers this year including TUI Cathedral, the Foro, the heart of the Roman extensive area. The typical Mediterranean Cruises’ Mein Schiff 2, MSC Cruises’ MSC city, the Fillungo, the main street with its climate due to the proximity of the sea, with Bellissima, Hapag Lloyd’s Hanseatic Nature, picturesque shops and workshops and the nature represented in the mountains Hurtigruten’s Roald Amundsen and Costa birthplace of Giacomo Puccini, the famous beyond,through its flora, which is unique to Cruises’ . opera composer. Europe. In Setúbal the guide will introduce the MedCruise contact: Ana Lourenco MedCruise contact: Serena Veroni Livramento Market. There visitors will have [email protected] [email protected]

12 Madeira ports Motril-Granada

he five must-see destinations from the The viewpoint has been renovated, and a ports of Madeira are: Porto Moniz suspended glass platform, called a skywalk, T Natural Swimming Pools; Cabo Girão was built. It is an excellent spot to practice Cliffs Skywalk; Monte Church and Gardens/ paragliding and base jumping. Recently, the Toboggan Run; Funchal Old Town and Farmer’s Portuguese parachutist Mário Pardo Market and Madeira Botanical Gardens. performed a spectacular motorcycle leap here. Cabo Girão Cliffs Skywalk is the highest in Nearby is the Chapel of Nossa Senhora de Europe, at an elevation of 580mtr, and is Fátima (Our Lady of Fátima), built in 1951 and famous for its suspended glass platform. The one of the main pilgrimage sites of the island. Cabo Girão viewpoint offers a vertiginous Funchal Old Town and Farmer’s Market, the PORT FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS view of the fajãs of Rancho and Cabo Girão – historical centre of the city of Funchal, better small areas of cultivated land at the foot of the known as the “Zona Velha” (Old Town), presents cliff – as well as magnificent panoramic the Painted Doors Project that transforms this new gastronomy experience is views over the ocean and the municipalities area into a permanent art gallery. available to cruise passengers from of Câmara de Lobos and Funchal. This public art project intends to stimulate port of Motril-Granada. The ‘espetos’, one of the most emblematical A and more specifically the espetos of sardine, areas of downtown Funchal in are a classic of the gastronomy of the Costa order to turn it into a more Tropical of Granada. significant and attractive cultural Although it may seem simple to the naked centre and a permanent art gallery, eye, the art of a sardine skewer has its tricks. joining several guest artists to In this Master Class you will be taught how to work on decorative paintings on do it correctly so you have to string the fish doors of houses, shops and other through the stomach and through a specific premises along Rua de Santa side of the spine with a prepared rod. After Maria. this step it is nailed in to the sand next to the embers and salt is added. MedCruise contact: Patricia The best way to eat it is with your hands. A Barrada splash of lemon is enough to season this [email protected] delicacy. © Francisco Correia Locals eat sardine and other fish and shellfish in beach bars in almost all the coastal towns of Andalusia. The espetos of Port Authority of North sardines are the best known. Other fish and shellfish that obtain that special flavour, being strung on a cane and roasted in the coals on Tyrrhenian Sea the sand of the beach. The skewers of horse mackerel, sea bream and sea bass are delicious, as well as calamari or octopus’ stick. Another gastronomical tour is to learn about olive oil. A complete guided introduction to the world of olive oil! You will visit a 15th century oil mill, and taste a special selection of extra virgin oils, flavoured olive oils, olives, vinegars, salts and more. Your guide will explain all about the different varieties of olive trees and olives, the harvesting season, their life cycle and other interesting facts about these great trees. The tour takes place in the beautiful village of Niguelas, in the Lecrín Valley, 30 km south of Granada. Port of Granada-Motril has 27 ship calls booked for 2019, bringing 10,822 passengers. f calling at the port of Portoferraio, diving the prominence of the old industrial city of off Elba Island is possible. Located in Populonia, the only Etruscan city built by the MedCruise contact: Lorenzo Vera Franco I different areas of the north side of the sea. Walking on this gleaming land of iron [email protected] island are several diving bases, equipped with powder and metal waste you can discover the facilities, logistics and welcoming staff able to city (the Acropolis), the temples, the provide the best service and every comfort. industrial city and the necropolis of San Near Portoferraio, where cruise vessels Cerbone, with mounds and tombs (made like berth, several hotels/camping sites have little temples), sarcophagus (VII-IV BC), and private docks, perfect for diving (daily diving, cave tombs dug into the rocks (IV-III BC). It is all level diving courses, free diving courses, connected entirely by paths, as it was in the snorkelling and diving courses for children). past, follow the original roads, through woods More than 30 dive spots around Elba are and Mediterranean bush, with blooms to suitable for all levels. There is a possibility to unexpected views of Elba Island. visit dive spots in Pianosa (National Park) and Ship calls forecast for 2019 are 14 for Piombino, Capraia islands. 100 for Portoferraio and 400 for Livorno. Popular from the port of Piombino is the Archaeological Park of Baratti and Populonia, MedCruise contact: Francesca Morucci a gleaming outdoor iron museum that shows [email protected]

Bringing the Med Together 13 Odessa Sete

ecrets of the Odessa Catacombs is a opportunity to admire the changing view, Thau lagoon

MEDCRUISE NEWS dive under the ground to a depth of 25- before arriving at the village of Nerubayskij, S 30mtr. In several districts of the city, originally established as a kozak military locations for visits to the underground settlement at the end of the 18th Century. museum and a look at the historical features Passengers are escorted on a fascinating of these places is possible. underground walk through 500 yards of the The Labyrinth of Catacombs, which threads massive maze that baffled the occupation about 600miles under the city and its environs forces. To bring the passages to life, actors were natural hideouts for World War II dressed like guerillas will perform a 10-15 PORT FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS PORT FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS PORT FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS PORT FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS

PORT FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS resistance forces during the Nazi occupation. minute concert for the guests. The excursion begins with a brief drive During World War II, Odessa was besieged through the port city passing through small for seventy-three days, and then occupied for Ukrainian villages, farms, beautiful orchards almost three years, during which local and vineyards, giving passengers an partisans harassed the (principally Rumanian) occupational forces, until he five most popular tours from French the city was liberated on port of Sète are; Carcassone Medieval April 10, 1944. Because of T city; Sète, a genuine city through this dedicated bravery, waterways and lively market place; The Thau Odessa was designated a lagoon: a journey through local wildlife and City of Heroes. In the oysters tasting; The Canal du Midi: back in Resistance Museum time alongside the old medieval canal; Tease across the road, guests the bulls: enjoy a stunning escape in the will visit a re-creation of Camargue area and experience the traditions the resistance in bull farms. headquarters, and view The Thau lagoon tours are new. There is an memorabilia of Odessa’s exclusive option where visitors start from heroic stand. Sète through the city waterways and reach the preserved Thau Lagoon. The Eco-tour on MedCruise contact: Julia the Lagoon lets visitors see flamingos and Strikh discover genuine techniques of Oyster farms [email protected] followed by a relax on the pontoon with a wine tasting at sunset. For a more active trip to the site, visit the Thau lagoon on a Stand-up paddle to get even closer to nature and enjoy still waters while Piraeus paddling through the oyster farms before enjoying a well-deserved tasting on the pontoon before heading back to the ship. 2019 will be once again a bustling year for the port of Sète with a total of 78 calls expected and more than 125,0000 passengers. Sète Cruise club will celebrate its 20th Anniversary on May 22nd. An event not to be missed! Sète Port Authority will be financing a new Cruise and Ferry terminal in 2022 to accommodate all ships and provide premium services to the guests and possibilities to expand transit calls and also to start interporting operations.

MedCruise contact: Guillaume Hamel rom the port of Piraeus visit the others, smell and learn about the Greek herbs [email protected] Acropolis, the city’s most famous and try local baklava. Hear traditional Greek F landmark. Begin your tour with a short music and try some steps of the syrtaki coach drive to Athens. Visit the ancient site at dancing. Enjoy a typical Greek coffee, taste the top of Acropolis Hill and see the traditional spoon cherry sweet and drink ouzo. Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike and There has been an increase in the number the Erechtheion. At the end of your visit, you’ll of ships and arrivals that have been continue on foot through the Acropolis scheduled to call Piraeus port for 2019 pedestrian zone to reach the New Acropolis compared to 2018, with the total number of Museum. There, you will see its many calls well over 600, including approximately exhibits, which include statues, sculptures 20 new ships for 2019. and marbles from the Parthenon. Port of Piraeus is in the process of investing Or alternatively take a guided tour of Athens, in new port facilities including adding two A coach can drive you from Piraeus port to more cruise berths for new generation cruise Athens city centre to join a local guide on an ships. A new cruise terminal will be interactive walking tour through the famous constructed on the new pier. Plaka neighbourhood. You’ll stroll around the Monastiraki market, where you can browse MedCruise contact: Theodora Riga traditional antique and jewellery shops among [email protected]

14 Tangier Sibenik

ust over an hour from Tangier lies glimpse into Moroccan life through a cooking Etnoland Tetouan, the Historical Capital of Northern class tour; the Bread & Tea Experience teaches J Morocco, a welcoming city that extends you to serve and enjoy Moroccan Mint Tea, along the Mediterranean with charming learn to prepare and bake traditional Moroccan background. It was founded in the 3rd century Bread, visit the ferran (community wood- BC. Echoes of the Roman and Phoenician eras burning oven) and experience a Moroccan known to exist in the site of Tamuda colored the Degustation with cheese and more. region's early days. Locals affectionately call it Or why not try the Chicken & Olive Tagine ‘The Daughter of Granada’ because the experience where as well as the Bread & Tea architecture’s got a distinctly Hispanic feel to it. Experience you visit a spice shop, and have a A tour starts with the main gate of the Royal hands-on, step-by-step lesson in preparing a PORT FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS Palace at Place Hassan II, together with some sumptuous Tagine. of the Spanish colonial architecture in the new tnoland Dalmati is a theme park and town outside the medina around the Place MedCruise contact: Jamil Ouazzani excursion destination open all year Moulay El Mehdi. Stroll around town to admire [email protected] E round. The experience begins with a its little white houses journey to the Dalmatian hinterland. This is a representing a mix of Arab 1.5-3 hour day or evening experience taking and Andalusian cultures, Tetouan place in all weathers. With a total area of surrounded by lush 15,000mtr sq Etnoland Dalmati is the destination vegetation. You can wander for all types of group arrivals, entertainment and through the narrow streets of socialising and because of the proximity to the the old medina and souks, National Park Krka (10min), visitors often discovering all the hidden combine it with a visit to the national park. corners. You will stop at a Memorable moments include the spirit of traditional teahouse to the past, local food, nature, kind and smiling watch an exotic belly hosts, as well as the tradition and customs of dancing show and enjoy a Croats in Dalmatia. After a formal, and for refreshing glass of mint tea Dalmatians, sacred welcome ceremony, listen before returning to the ship. to stories of their ancestors and history, see It is possible to catch a and learn about customs and tradition. Etnoland Dalmati offers visitors indigenous Dalmatian food and drinks, and delicacies such as those prepared under ‘peka’ in the Tarragona traditional way, ‘Drniski prsut’ smoked ham and traditional red and white wine. Krka National Park is a 109km sq area of Visitors can enjoy a exceptional natural and cultural value, beautiful village of houses and including preserved ecosystems. The purpose cobblestone streets and the of the park is to offer science, culture, rest of the Saracens education and recreation, while tourism stronghold, located next to the activities have been introduced for its visitors. village. At its feet, a clean and Krka river runs from the foothills of Dinara calm water reservoir offers mountain to the Adriatic sea near Sibenik. the possibility of practicing This is a truly wonderful place full of any kind of water sports. waterfalls, lush green and karstic canyons. Siurana is a popular Krka National Park is open for visitors all destination for climbers and year round, and can be toured by water, by road hikers. Its legendary cliffs are or by foot on many hiking trails. known around the world as a Sibenik expects 109 arrivals in 2019 and perfect place for such around 21,000 passengers. The port will receive activities. a two maiden calls from Azamara Cruises’ Tarragona is a must due to Azamara Pursuit and DIV Cruises’ MS Monet. its roman legacy. The Roman The Maritime Passenger Terminal Project Route introduces visitors to the history of which includes the construction of a new two- arragona port is to create a new cruise Tarragona by means of the main monuments storey passenger terminal building and garage dock called the Balears Berth, which that survive from that era, when the city was at should be finished by 2021. will add an additional 700mtr of T the peak of its splendour. On 30 November berthing. The dock is due to be ready in 2021, 2000, UNESCO declared the ancient Roman MedCruise contact: Gordana Mrcela between May and September. archaeological complex of Tarraco as a World [email protected] From Tarragona visitors can visit Siurana, a Heritage Site. small village at the top of an escarpment in the The five most popular destinations available Prades Mountains where you will discover a from Tarragona are; the city itself, the only village full of historical relevance and World Heritage city in Catalonia; Poblet excellent views over the Siurana Reservoir and Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; surrounding valley. Reus, recognized for its important Art Nouveau Located in an unassailable position over the heritage; PortAventura World and Ferrari Land, river, it needed knights of four counties to one of Europe’s foremost theme parks; and conquer it. The castle defended a frontier. If Siurana. you look at the cliff, you can see why it was not conquered in three hundred years and why the MedCruise contact: Sandra Domenech end was so tragic. Krka National Park [email protected]

Bringing the Med Together 15 Tunisian ports Thessaloniki MEDCRUISE NEWS PORT FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS PORT FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS PORT FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS PORT FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS PORT FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS

he most popular tours from Tunisian Carthage are the ruins of the archaeological ports of Bizerte, La Goulette, Sousse and site that show a great civilization that has been T Tunis are Carthage, an archaeological able to impose its existence since the ninth site only 4km from La Goulette port; Sidi Bou century BC until today. Said, a famous Moorish village; The Medina of The medina of Tunis is presented in an oval new tour from port of Thessaloniki Tunis; The Bardo Museum, the largest roman form, surrounded by a continuous wall and this year is entitled ‘Ancient Pela – mosaic collection in the world; and Takrouna, a dominated by a Kasbah, the seat of Traces of Alexander the Great’. This Berber village. government. It is built around the religious A unique tour is a magical journey through time Takrouna is a small Berber village, located in centre of the Grand Mosque Ezzaitouna, to the glorious kingdom of ancient the Sahel, more precisely in Enfidha. This opening onto a large platform for both market Macedonia, where Alexander the Great was village is one of the oldest in Tunisia, built on a place, public meetings and place for military born. Peer into the rich history of the large fossilised rock, dating back over 2,000 parades, near which are arranged Souks Macedonian state capital, a bustling years. merchants and artisans. Around these souks metropolis of the Classical period. A number The archaeological site of Carthage is rise private houses with their narrow streets. of excavations of the site reveal the ancient classified among the World Heritage sites city’s majestic grandeur. since 1979 and houses the unmissable MedCruise contact: Cherifa Ben Salem Visit the monumental palatial complex that cathedral of Saint Louis. Scattered in the city of [email protected] occupies the northernmost hill of the city, and covers an area of 60,000mtr sq. Wander around the city’s commercial and Valencia manufacturing centre which was in fact the biggest of the ancient world. This huge building complex included shops, workshops, administration offices, and the repository of the city’s historical records. The visitors will certainly be impressed by the outstanding mosaic floors that used to decorate the city's grand mansions. These decorated floors (considered the most important group of mosaics in Macedonia) can be viewed at the new Archaeological Museum of Pella. The Archaeological Museum of Pella is situated near the archaeological site and it gives a complete picture of the civilization in the heart of Macedonia in Archaic and early Classical Period. The tour also includes a traditional Macedonian lunch, based on traditional ancient recipes with local products and n the very centre of Valencia our cruise Paella Show Cooking: Cook yourself an ingredients. guests will find a wide variety of authentic Valencia Paella, where this In 2019, four cruise ships are scheduled to I possibilities to visit both modern and internationally known dish comes from the call but numbers are expected to grow ancient Valencia. The most popular tours are; fresh products you will collect yourself. significantly from 2020. Historic Valencia: a journey from ancient Lake Albufera Tour: A bike trip to the Romans to the Arabic, Medieval, Baroque and Albufera Lake Natural Park, a Mediterranean MedCruise contact: Evgenia Traikapi Art Deco Period. ecosystem covering 20,000 hectares with [email protected] Avant-Garde Visit: take a walk around the unspoilt dune beaches, forest, rice fields and a most modern part of Valencia visiting the huge lake where you can enjoy boat trips and architectural complex of the City of Arts and discover the fauna that lives there. Sciences. In 2019 port of Valencia is anticipating The Horchata route by Bicycle: the Huerta of 435,000 cruises passengers from 199 calls Valencia is the name given to a huge area for year-round. In 2018, passengers numbered fertile farmland you can explore in a very 421,518 passengers from 196 calls so steadily sustainable way with your bike and taste our increasing which underlines the goal of being famous horchata vegan drink. a sustainable cruise port and destination. Among the Vines: Visit and taste our wine producing areas and the beauty of their MedCruise contact: Francesca Antonelli landscapes just 40 minutes’ drive from the port. [email protected]

16 Port Authority of Western Valletta Sicilian Sea

he Port System Mondello Authority of the T Western Sicilian Sea is made up of the ports of Palermo, Termini Imerese, Trapani and Porto Empedocle. There is a vast amount of activities for children in town, PORT FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS ten minutes from Palermo at Mondello; the beach, with more than two kilometres of sandy coastline with tropical colours; the a liberty bathing

calia centre with huge pylons in the sea; the square with the Little Mermaid: the village square overlooking the sea and Monte © Sandro S Pellegrino; take a walk from Capo Gallo to easily walk around to admire the medieval town Monte Pellegrino; visit the Addaura with its the and the shops lining its old cobblestone streets. caves that preserve one of the pictorial cycles - Cefalù is part of the Arab-Norman Itinerary of or rather, rock engravings - dating back to the UNESCO with its Duomo, whose building itself is Palaeolithic period; observe the cursed villa: an distinctive and looks like a cross between a Art Nouveau villa said to be inhabited by ghosts fortress and a church with some very unusual lthough the curtain has gone down on and finally, enjoy the restaurants. architecture. Once you go inside, the interior is Valletta’s year-long spell as European A new tour in the area is to Cefalù, a like a traditional church with some beautiful A Capital of Culture 2018, Valletta medieval town, less than one hour from artwork. After hiking up and down there’s continues to bustle with activity. Recognised Palermo and twenty minutes from Termini nothing better than go to the beach and take a as a UNESCO World Heritage City since 1980, Imerese, along the north coast of Sicily. The dip. Cefalù’s beach is easily accessible from the the recent past years have proven to be a must-see attractions are the Duomo, the centre, and offers a refreshing water temperature revival for the city based on a multi-year Osterio Magno, Porta Terra square, the from April onwards. regeneration programme. Investment both Medieval lavatory, Mandralisca Museum and within and outside of the city walls led to the the beautiful historical centre. MedCruise contact: Daniela Mezzatesta development of new infrastructural projects, Cefalu's town centre is fairly small and you can [email protected] the restoration of public spaces and buildings, and a multitude of events available day and night, amongst the capital’s iconic hotspots. Zadar The re-modelled City Gate with the restored Triton Fountain, the elegant Parliament building just inside the gate, along with a flight sedate would be a trip to the of steps in the 16th century walls, lead to National Park Kornati Islands. An garden areas with panoramic views of the Archipelago with 150 uninhabited fortifications and a newly landscaped moat islands, islets and reefs is the most acting as an outdoor performance space. indented island group in the The extension and modernization of St. Mediterranean. Take a boat sailing John’s Co-Cathedral Museum will finally allow from one island to another all the nearly all of the priceless artefacts to be way to a bay of extraordinary adequately displayed, including the world’s beauty. It is a paradise for those largest set of Gobelin tapestries. who know how to enjoy the pure Additionally, the move of the Fine Arts form of fascinating crystal sea. On Museum to the 15th century Auberge d’Italie, board you will be served a lunch, known as MUŻA seeks to promote greater including wine or juice. participation by the community through a For the history lover why not story-based narrative of displays and related try a tour of the City of Nin, the objects. Kornati Islands oldest Croatian royal town? Nin The revival of Strait Street with its historic was an important royal and dwellings previously the residences of the n activity based tour available from the cultural centre throughout Knights of the Order and Maltese notables Croatian port of Zadar is a Jeep Safari Croatian history and the testimony to that are have been given a new life. A in the Mountain Velebit, a full day trip the monuments from the 8th and 9th century. Nightlife both in Valletta itself and in where you can enjoy beautiful views from You have the possibility to taste homemade neighbouring towns and villages, and mild Velebit heights and experience the products such as cheese, bread and wine. climate throughout the year are attracting unforgettable adventure. In 2019, port of Zadar is expecting 140 cruise locals and visitors alike. There are plenty of While driving terrain vehicles through calls and 182,000 passengers. Costa Cruises’ exciting activities going on around the Capital Velebit you will get to know its nature and Costa Venezia and TUI Cruises’ Mein Schiff 6 and the Islands to warrant an encore visit, and culture. On this excursion you will experience will be maiden callers this year. to surprise you if you haven’t visited yet. Velebit in a completely new and different way and have a chance to take wonderful photos. MedCruise contact: Djoni Stambuk MedCruise contact: Stephen Xuereb A tour for those seeking something more [email protected] [email protected]

Bringing the Med Together 17 Challenges and Solutions

We asked MedCruise member ports and destinations what is the biggest challenge they MEDCRUISE NEWS are facing in the cruise business and what is the solution - and in less than 120 words!

Palermo Tarragona

CCHALLENGES AND SOLUTIONS he Port Authority is aiming for the renaissance of the cruise sector to he growth in cruise calls to PORT FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS PORT FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS make its quays more Tarragona have to be PORT FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS PORT FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS T comfortable to host the new Palermo Tarragona T coordinated with all the generation of vessels. destinations, to keep offering a high Antonella Filippi, Promotion and level of satisfaction to the cruise Communication Officer, Port System passengers. Authority of the Western Sicilian Sea Alba Colet, Cruises Department, Tarragona Cruise Port

Varna Gibraltar

Compared with last five years, there Port Infrastructure developments, and has been an outflow of passenger capacity at destinations to cope with ships in the Black Sea basin, due to Varna Gibraltar increased size of vessels and certain geopolitical issues in the simultaneous calls, whilst keeping the region. Providing favourable local population happy going about conditions for accommodating cruise their day to day business. ships on their return is our main Nicky Guerrero, Chief Executive, priority. Gibraltar Tourist Board Alexander Todorov, Public Relations and Minutes, Port of Varna EAD

Civitavecchia Portofino

Civitavecchia Portofino

Space is an issue at Civitavecchia, that Portofino is a small fisherman’s is why we are investing in the ports of village which can get easily congested Fiumicino and Gaeta. A development when multiple ships call on the same plan for the port of Fiumicino has been day. However, we always make sure to approved as well as at Gaeta, where 15 avoid such situations by Souda/Chania Toulon-Var-Provence ships called in 2017. communicating with the cruise line Malcolm Morini, Manager of Cruise companies and agencies. Sector & Promotion, Port Network Giorgia Collalti, Sales & Marketing Authority of Central-Northern Manager, Marina di Portofino Tyrrhenian Sea

Souda/Chania Toulon Var Provence

ouda Port is one of the few ports in South East Mediterranean ur biggest challenge is to market Toulon as an attractive capable of accommodating mega-cruise vessels (of 360mtr length, cruise destination in an area where there are so many S 5,000 cruise guests). Within the next couple of years we expect an O marquee cruise ports (where the cruise guests want to go end to the geopolitics of the region and a return of mega cruise vessels mostly!) To face that challenge, we are trying to work closely with the movements from West Med to East Med. The cruise lines can be assured local institution in charge of promoting the destination so they can that the administration of Souda Port is already prepared. develop a B2C ambitious strategy and action plan to better promote Stella Manioudaki, Executive Director, Port Authority: Harbour the destination and awake the interest of cruise visitors, which is the Management Organisation of Chania key to attracting the market! Delphine Beudin, Head of Cruise Development, Ports of Toulon Bay/ Var Provence Cruise Club

18 Piraeus Zadar

he biggest challenge stems from the external geopolitical n 2018, Port of Zadar Authority finished the tender procedure for the environment and the unbalanced infrastructure among the concession for managing the terminal building in the new passenger T Greek ports. Piraeus has taken initiatives through co- I port of Gazenica. The new concessionaire is called Zadar International operative organizations in Greece to coordinate efforts for the Port Operations d.o.o. (Global Ports Holding). The biggest challenges in the development of the cruise cluster in Greek waters. Piraeus also next period for Port of Zadar Authority and ZIPO will be to put the new actively participates in international forums and conferences to terminal building in to operation, to continue with other development market the broader area with particular focus on the competitive projects for the purpose of port service empowerment and to continue with advantages of cruises in the Greek islands. all other activities that will make Zadar one of the most attractive and safe Theodora Riga, Manager, Strategic Planning & Marketing, Piraeus ports in the Mediterranean Sea. CHALLENGES AND SOLUTIONS Port Authority Djoni Stambuk, Assistant to GM, Port of Zadar Authority

Piraeus Zadar Sibenik Kotor

The Channel of St. Anthony remains The biggest challenge for our the biggest challenge for the port of destination, and we believe for the Sibenik, as it limits the size of vessels whole Adriatic region, is large number that can pass through it and berth at of passengers arriving at the same time Vrulje Quay. There is now a new option, into cruise ports. Traditionally, small just 5km from the city and offering places such as Kotor and Dubrovnik, anchorage for larger ships outside the are unable to develop infrastructure St. Anthony Channel. The location of above a certain level so we have to Sibenik Kotor the new anchorage is parallel to the think about solutions that can resolve village of Zablace with existing port traffic jams and crowds. and transport infrastructure for cruise Ljubo Radovic, Assistant CEO, Port of ship tenders and buses. Kotor Gordana Mrcela, Marketing Specialist, Port of Sibenik Authority

Azores Kavala

Azores Kavala

Calls and passenger numbers are The biggest challenge we are currently increasing, ships are getting bigger and facing in the cruise business is the days with 3 and 4 ships at the same unstable situation in Turkey that has time in port are becoming so common. caused several cancellations of calls at It's a big challenge to manage all the the port of Istanbul, which is the ships, passengers, tours, etc. but we are driving force between the Black Sea improving our commercial pier to and the Aegean Sea. The port of Kavala Ceuta Bastia/North Corsica better accommodate the cruise ships is affected greatly because it acts as an berthing outside the cruise terminal. intermediate destination for cruise André Velho Cabral, Cruise Manager, ships to and from Istanbul. Portos dos Açores Gregory Kekropoulos, Marketing Department/PFSO, Port of Kavala

Ceuta Bastia/North Corsica

n the cruise business we are facing new itinerary changes and he Port of Bastia enjoys a very ideal geographical position in the increased cost of calls, but our port has developed its potential West Med. Our strategy is to focus on luxury cruise lines, which are I based on its geographical situation in north Africa, in the middle T already very loyal to our destination: that's the reason why we work of the Straits of Gibraltar. The Autonomous city of Ceuta by law has hard to ensure their guests high standards of service and original tours to been declared a free port and has a different system to elsewhere leave them an unforgettable souvenir... and make them want to come back which makes the entrance and the exit of goods at a lower cost as soon as possible! easier. That means better prices for all kinds of items, such as Anne-Marie Spinosi, Cruises & Communication, Chambre de ommerce et jewellery, liquors, tobacco and electrical items. d’Industrie de Bastia et de la Haute-Corse Victor Jiménez Serrano, Commercial & Marketing Manager, Port Authority of Ceuta

Bringing the Med Together 19 MEDCRUISE NEWS MedCruise News Anja Lohrum,SecretariatAdvisor Jordi Caballé Valls,General Secretary Secretariat President: AiramDiazPastor MedCruise @MedCruisePorts facebook.com/medcruise.association #PortsTogether www.medcruise.cn www.medcruise.com [email protected] Tel: +34922533383 38001 SantaCruzdeTenerife,Spain Puerto deSantaCruzTenerife Muelle RiberaS/N.Ed.Puerto-Ciudad,Of.5B MedCruise March 2019 Published by | Issue57