ATHENS TO LISBON EXPEDITION (SILVER CLOUD)

Seven countries in 14 days might seem like a lot, but this adventure is tempered by days at sea, making room for ample R&R.; Leaving the iconic Acropolis in your wake, sail the Mediterranean Sea to the looking for traces of ancient Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman and Venetian networks on your way. Hop from pretty islands and fabled shores to famous for a Mediterranean history lesson that you will never forget.

ITINERARY

Day 1 (Piraeus) A of legend, civilisation and enduring culture, Athens is a majestic and magical urban sprawl. Extraordinary elegance and grace combine with grit and graft in 's capital, where highways encase from antiquity, and gleaming museums and galleries stand beside concrete sprayed with edgy . These contrasts enhance and elevate the wonders of this 2,500-year-old city, however, which can count notable contributions to philosophy, drama and democracy, among its global legacy. Piraeus' giant port and naval base welcome you to the edge of the Athens' . From there it's a simple jaunt to the centre. The majestic ancient citadel of the Acropolis dominates an elevated platform and is a constant presence as you explore the city. The wonderful remains of the columned temple of the Parthenon - which date back to the 5th century BC - stand here, representing the pinnacle of classical architecture. The nearby Acropolis Museum adds context to your visit and frames the broad views from its giant glass . Or rise up Mount Lycabettus, to be rewarded with perhaps Athens' best panorama of the Acropolis sitting high over the city on its grand stage. See the marble horseshoe of the Old Olympic Stadium, where the first modern Olympics were held in 1896, for more of the city's enduring legacy. Elsewhere, golden beaches and temples stretch out along the coastline, should you wish to explore a little further afield. Coffee is an art form to the Greeks, and it's an unwritten rule that coffee time must never be rushed. So prepare to settle down for a couple of hours and lose yourself in a good chat. Feeling hungry -

0800 945 3327 (within New Zealand) | +64 (0) 3 365 1355 | 1800 107 715 (within Australia) [email protected] | wildearth-travel.com try traditional souvlaki made with sauces handed from generation to which were then used to invade the Peloponnese. Set on the mainland at the generation. entrance to the Corinthian Gulf, Nafpaktos was initially chosen as a strategic point due to its high hills and fertile land. The Byzantine navy used it as a Day 2 Monemvasia (Laconia) communication point and, amongst others, the Knights Hospitaller occupied it in 1378 before it was captured by the Venetians in 1407. Over 600 years A town of rustic, lyrically romantic beauty, Monemvasia boasts a glorious later, today the town could be considered one of the oldest in Greece. natural setting - perched on a colossal rock island, which rears spectacularly Unsurprisingly for a town with such a rich past, its present is very much from the waves. A truly unique city, the island is linked to the mainland respectful of tradition. The city is picturesque, and it has kept its style, beauty by just a single solitary causeway. It is hard to imagine a better – and more and feel for centuries. Take a stroll in the pretty with its naval houses impenetrable - setting for a fortress town than this, and the rock is laced with and mansions and be transported back by several centuries! The port, the tight cobbled streets, exposed stone masonry and pretty Byzantine churches. smallest in the Mediterranean, is a relic from the city’s Venetian past, while Known as the of Greece, you would be forgiven for assuming that the the bougainvillea that clings to the whitewashed walls, cobbled streets and limestone monolith was unoccupied as you approach from the seas. Look a shady squares could be from a movie set. At the time of writing – 2019 – little closer, however, and you’ll begin to pick out the ancient walls and Nafpaktos had still not fallen prey to mass tourism like many other of its terracotta roofs of the quaint town clinging to its steep, dramatic slopes - and neighbouring islands. So do not expect hordes of tourists – moreover the walls of the fortress crowning it. A natural stronghold of overwhelming authentic tavernas selling locally caught fresh fish, squid and octopus and romantic beauty – the rock is said to lend couples wedded here extra strong beachside restaurants serving Grecian cuisine at very reasonable rates. foundations to build from. Arrive on the island to wander the historic knot of streets of a true Adriatic wonder. Encounter gorgeous, tree-shaded terraces, Day 4 Ksamil which look out across the rippling blue waves. Visit the picturesque Church of Christ Elkomenos, where you can shelter in the cool interior, and see storied Albania is a country that has long played her cards close to her chest. Closed religious iconography. A historic paved pathway twists back on itself, rising to foreigners for almost all of the 20th century, tourism here is still in its very sharply up the slope on a daunting ascent to the now uninhabited upper early stages, which is good news for all those who want to truly experience fortress. The views from here are even more incredible, as you look down Balkan authenticity at its grass roots. Ksamil is what Mediterranean coastlines across the rustic domes of the lower village’s churches and stone-paved should look like. Lush vegetation tops craggy cliffs and long ribbons of golden streets below. sand. Tiny islands are within easy swimming distance from the shore. Further along the shore, pretty cove beaches provide complete isolation for those who Day 3 Itea & Nafpaktos really do not want to be found. While Ksmil’s charms may centre on beach days and long-lazy lunches in the shade (be sure to try the mussels – a local Journey to the centre of the world, as you explore the ancient wonders of speciality), those who want to venture further afield might like to stretch their Delphi. The pretty orange dome of Itea's church beckons you ashore, as you legs and to Butrint, about 5 km from Ksmil. Here you can expect a UNESCO prepare to journey onwards to the location of some of the world's most World Heritage Site that houses archaeological remains dating back to the richly-woven mythology and history. Set on the slopes of the mighty Mount second half of the second millennium B.C. About an hour’s north of Ksamil Parnassus, which looms high over the area’s vineyards, almond trees and lies Syri I Kalter Lake (loosely translated as “the blue eye”). The drive up to the olive groves, Delphi is a location that’s blessed with a dense tapestry of lake is a worthy excusion all of its own! Winding, uphill roads pass through a incredible heritage. Known as the naval of the world by the Ancient Greeks, plethora or terrain; from palm trees on the shore, to green and dense, almost mighty leaders would journey here to consult the famous oracle, before mountainous forest areas. Upon arrival have a cool drink at the little making decisions that would ripple across the world. Pilgrims visited the restaurant and take in the extraordinary beauty of the area. The lake is fed by Oracle of Delphi for prophesies, which were said to be channelled directly a natural spring, giving it the curious natural phenomenon where bubbles from from the god Apollo. A past as deep as the ocean, Nafpaktos is the the water create a dark blue colour. Where the bubbles reach the surface, the quintessence of Greece. Seeped in history since the 15th century, this water seems a darker blue, thus giving the lake its name. Definitely a must for ex-Venetian stronghold was more commonly known as Lepanto. Liberated in those who want to cool off from the Albanian heat but prefer to avoid the 1829 when Greece gained independence, Nafpaktos (meaning “boatyard”) is beach. an ancient Greek name, which was revived in the 19th century. Historically the name goes as far back as the Doric period, as the Dorian first used the island Day 5 At Sea to build rafts. Legend has it that Heraclidea built a fleet of ships in the

0800 945 3327 (within New Zealand) | +64 (0) 3 365 1355 | 1800 107 715 (within Australia) [email protected] | wildearth-travel.com Day 6 like Selinus and Segesta, where the treasures from the past have been unearthed and displayed. Pyramids of white salt rise up at the Riserva Naturale Saline di e Paceco. These salt marshes and windmills are a Day 7 Empedocle (Sicily) symbol of Trapani, and although sea salt production is much less important today, the small white hills remain a Trapani landmark. Look out for the pink Porto Empedocle has long served as the port for , the capital of the flamingos wading in the salt pans below. For beach days, the Egadi Islands province of the same name. Located on Sicily’s southwest coast, ancient can be easily reached from Trapani - Favignana is the largest and most Agrigento was Akragas to the Greeks, who established the first settlement on a popular. ridge between two rivers in 581 BC. Through massive trade with the Phoenician port of , the city rose to such wealth and power that Pindar called Agrigento “the most beautiful city built by mortal men". Despite Day 9 (Sardinia) frequent attacks over the centuries, the city survived through the Roman era, The serene sea approach to Cagliari is an exquisitely beautiful way to first lay the Middle Ages and into the modern age. Structures from all these eras stand eyes on the city’s mesmerising interplay of colour, spires and domed side by side in Agrigento today. Much of the area has drastically changed due churches. Sat on Sardinia’s south coast, Cagliari is the island’s largest city, to the development of modern Agrigento. However, the historic town center, and a sun-blessed escape of beaches, architecture and Mediterranean food – with its huddle of narrow, winding streets, still offers some sites worth where stress evaporates on contact. That first sight of Cagliari’s of exploring. Among its main points of interest is the cathedral, which stands on architecture reveals much about the island’s history, and is a living document the foundation of a temple of from the 6th century BC. Outside the city, of the civilisations and influences that have passed through. Combining the chief attraction is the Valley of the Temples, which is one of the most Byzantine churches with crumbling Roman ruins and Pisan towers, it’s an impressive classical sites in all of . It draws scores of visitors from around elegant, beguiling place to explore. Usher in the morning with a short, sharp the world who come to marvel at the remains of the magnificent structures espresso hit, before wandering along to San Benedetto market’s bustle, scattered throughout the archaeological area. Some of the most impressive crammed full of overflowing heaps of local produce. Taste crisp, freshly-baked finds are displayed in the museum at the entrance to the site. The small town bread, thin shavings of sheep’s cheese, and ripe red strawberries, as you of Empedocle has one main street, along which are a few shops, bars and wander amid the market’s melody of good-natured bartering. The Castello restaurants.At lunchtime, the place looks deserted; shopkeepers close their quarter’s tight, flower-draped streets and salmon-hued brick buildings incline doors and head home. From Empedocle it is approximately six miles to up above the Med’s softly lapping waves. Climb Bastione di Saint Remy Agrigento. Venture ashore to visit the famous Valley of the Temples or explore staircase to Terrazza Umberto’s views of the turquoise Gulf of Angels. Next, Agrigento’s busy town center with its numerous shops. When the hustle and Cathedral of Santa Maria awaits, with its marbled interiors, elaborate side bustle gets to you, cool off in a shady sidewalk café and sip a campari or chapels and intricately decorated crypt. Once you’ve unravelled Cagliari’s enjoy a cappuccino. historical tapestry, Poetto Beach invites you to find a spot on almost five miles of uninterrupted sand, met by a dazzling expanse of turquoise water. On a hot Day 8 Trapani (Sicily) summer’s day, soak up some sun before saluting the sunset with an ice cold Spritz at a beachside bar. Spaghetti with salted bottarga and artichokes will Surrounded by glowing turquoise waters and rugged coastline, Trapani invites keep the good times rolling, perfectly accompanied by a glass of you to explore western Sicily's ruins, intense flavours, and sun-soaked leisure ruby-coloured Cannonau wine. pursuits. Built on salt and tuna exports, Trapani is experiencing a , having been lovingly spruced up as a sailing capital, and an international airport bringing in visitors from far and wide. The town looks out over the Egadi Day 10 Bejaia Islands, gazing west to witness some of Siciliy's most evocative sunset Situated between the sea, a cape and a mountain, Bejaïa is one of Algeria’s displays. Start exploring Trapani from its historic core, a dense network of prettiest cities. With a population of about 200,000 it is also the capital of alleys hosting a collection of small shops, restaurants and wine bars. You’ll Bejaïa province. The old town lies on the slopes of Mount Gouraya descending encounter the Cathedral of San Lorenzo – where colourful artworks are spread to the French sector along the sea. Main landmarks include a 16th-century below sweeping arches and a beautiful domed roof. Sicily feels like an island mosque, a Spanish fortress, also from the , and an old Kasbah. on the cusp of continents, and Trapani practically has one in Africa, as The history of Bejaïa can be traced to the founding by the Carthaginians in the you soak in its pretty whitewash houses and fusion of foods and arts. Discover 1st century BC. From the 2nd to the 5th centuries the town was under Roman the Ancient Greek influence by venturing to rich archaeological sites nearby, rule and flourished as a commercial and military center called Saldae. In the

0800 945 3327 (within New Zealand) | +64 (0) 3 365 1355 | 1800 107 715 (within Australia) [email protected] | wildearth-travel.com 12th century, Bejaïa became the capital of the Berber Hammadid dynasty Day 14 Portimao only to be annexed one hundred years later into the Hafsid Empire of . During the Middle Ages, Bougie, as the town was known then, was a favorite Sprawl out and relax across thick wedges of glorious, golden sands, in pirate stronghold. Later followed a succession of Spanish and Ottoman rulers. ’s sun-worshipping paradise. Portimão is a beachy heaven and a In 1833, when the French occupied Algeria, Bejaïa declined as had perfect encapsulation of the ’s Atlantic appeals, offering easy access to become the preferred port. A project in the early 1900s to improve the harbor the wonderful da Rocha. Head straight for the long and wide expanse of and the construction of an oil pipeline in 1959 regained Bejaïa’s former this famous beach, where you can kick back and enjoy soft, honey-coloured importance and made it a leading port for oil transported from the oil fields at sands and gentle waves rolling ashore. A spectacular and spacious sandy Hassi Messauoud. After long and fierce battles, independence from expanse – located at the point where the Arade River unloads into the Atlantic was achieved in July 1962. Algeria has three languages – , French and – relax, or wander the wooden boardwalk to a string of neighbouring beaches, Amazigh (the Berber language). While French has long been used in as you explore among dramatic, tank-like rock formations. Taste juicy hauls of universities, research and journalism, Arabic is more and more taking the sardines, cooked over open fires, with glasses of wine pressed from the place of French. Guests are advised that in order to go ashore in this port, vineyards nearby - as you lavish under the sunshine of the Algarve’s prime participation in one of the organized tours is required. This regulation is holiday region. Surrounded by offbeat fishing villages, stunning coastline and waived for guests who come provided with their own individual Algerian visa. quaintly tiled old towns, there is a rich medley of life, culture and flavours to Pier Information The ship is scheduled to dock at the port of Bejaïa. Distance indulge in. Attractive pattern the scenic Ribeirinha promenade, to the town center is approximately 500 yards. Metered taxis are generally breathing new life into Portimão’s rugged old docks, and creating a charming available at the pier gate, though English-speaking drivers are not easy to find. riverside stroll that leads to the showpiece beach. Elsewhere, the arches and Shopping Pottery, traditional dress, carpets, jewelry and local handicrafts sea-eroded limestone stacks of the monumental Ponta da Piedade coastline make for genuine Algerian souvenirs. Carpet patterns are distinct according to are close by, or you can make for Silves, a historical former capital of the regions. Price and quality vary accordingly. State run shops, offering, a wide Kingdom of the Algarve, crowned with a soaring sandy castle. The Moorish range of handicrafts and souvenirs, are a good place for comparative pricing. trading outpost of Lagos is also within reach, where you can visit a coastline Store hours are normally from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The local currency is the dotted with gaping sea caves, set below crumbling coastal fortresses. dinar. Cuisine Fresh seafood, lamb dishes and couscous are found on most menus. The best choice is at one of the more upscale hotels. Other Sites Day 15 Lisbon Attractions in and around Bejaia are covered in the organized shore A glorious mosaic of beauty, freedom and authenticity, Portugal’s capital is a excursions. Private arrangements are only possible (subject to availability) for stirring artwork of a city. Known for the seven hills it spreads across, and its guests who are in possession of an individual Algerian visa. stirring music, Lisbon is a pastel-coloured blend of houses and beautiful tile artworks - and this creative city strikes a perfect harmony between natural Day 11 At Sea and manmade beauty. Stroll along 's steep, cobbled streets as you explore one of the city’s oldest neighbourhoods - where each house and door Days 12 - 13 could be its own photograph. Look for the decorative tiles, with the distinctive blues and whites of ceramics, and visit the dedicated museum to Whether you pronounce it Seville or Sevilla, this gorgeous Spanish town is learn more. Afterwards, wind up to São Jorge Castle, where views out across most certainly the stuff of dreams. Over 2,200 years old, Seville has a Lisbon’s red rooftops unravel. Just one of many majestic viewpoints, you can mutli-layered personality; home to Flamenco, high temperatures and three also seek out Miradouro da Graça for perhaps Lisbon's finest panorama, with UNESCO-World Heritage Sites, there is a noble ancestry to the southern the copper-coloured stretching over sparkling water beyond Spanish town. Not forgetting that it is the birthplace of painter Diego the sea of buildings. The elegant Tower of Belém rises in the estuary Velazquez, the resting place of , the inspiration for and is a historic defender of these shores. The grand, carved cloisters of Bizet’s Carmen and a location for Game of Thrones filming, Seville is truly Jerónimos Monastery spread out close by, and there's another UNESCO more than just a sum of its parts. This city is a full on experience, a beguiling recognised location close by at , where a colourful town is set amid thick labyrinth of centuries old streets, tiny tapas restaurants serving possibly the gardens and towering mountains - capped by the royal . Later, best dishes you’ll taste south of and a paradise of Mudejar relax and take a quick break to drink Ginjinha, a cherry liqueur made from architecture and tranquil palm trees and fountain-filled gardens. chocolate cups instead of coffee. Lisboetas have a sweet tooth, and the famous 's crumbling pastry and caramelised-custard topping is

0800 945 3327 (within New Zealand) | +64 (0) 3 365 1355 | 1800 107 715 (within Australia) [email protected] | wildearth-travel.com the essential accompaniment to any coffee stop.

Please Note: Itineraries are subject to change.

0800 945 3327 (within New Zealand) | +64 (0) 3 365 1355 | 1800 107 715 (within Australia) [email protected] | wildearth-travel.com YOUR SHIP: SILVER CLOUD

YOUR SHIP: Silver Cloud

VESSEL TYPE: Luxury Expedition

LENGTH: 157 m

PASSENGER CAPACITY: 200/260

BUILT/REFURBISHED: 1994 Refurbished & Rebranded

After extensive refurbishment, _Silver Cloud_ will be the most Corner spacious and comfortable ice class vessel in expedition DECK 07 - La Terrazza, The Spa at Silversea, Beauty Salon, The cruising. Her large suites, her destination itineraries and her Library unparalleled service make her truly special. Her five dining DECK 06 - Lecture Theatre, The Fitness Centre, Reception/Guest options will tantalise your taste buds and as 80% of her suites Relations, Expedition Desk include a veranda, watching a breaching whale or a few DECK 05 - The Bar, Boutique, cavorting penguins has never been so personal. Broad DECK 04 - Main Restaurant, Le Champagne, Launderette sweeping decks with multiple open spaces and a swimming pool complete what is surely the most distinctive expedition ship sailing today. A limited number of guests, particularly with just 200 in polar waters, mean that _Silver Cloud_ has the highest space to guest and crew to guest ratios in expedition cruising. With her 18 zodiacs, possibilities are almost limitless with ship-wide simultaneous explorations. Finally, a team of 19 passionate and dedicated experts are always at hand to ensure your voyage is enhanced every step of the way. DECK 09 - Observation Lounge, Jogging Track DECK 08 - Pool, Pool Bar, Hot Rocks, The Panorama Lounge, The Connoisseur's

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