Italy Shore Excursions 2011 Coral

10 Days / 10 Nights

Corinth Canal, Greek Islands & Istanbul Rate (EURO)

Port

Description

Genoa

Code

Adult

Child (3 – 12 yrs.) $ 42 $ 58 $ 60 $ 50 $ 40 $ 71 $ 41 $ 57 $ 71

Genoa City Tour GOA – 01 $ 68 Portofino GOA – 02 $ 82 Katakolon Excursion to Olympia KAT – 01 $ 85 Santorini Excursion to Oia Village SAN – 01 $ 78 Santorini Sailing & Volcano SAN – 02 $ 78 Istanbul Highlights of Istanbul* IST – 02 $ 141 Scenic Bosphorus Cruise & Bazaars IST – 12 $ 80 Flavours & Treasures of Istanbul IST – 13 $ 84 Highlights of Istanbul with Archaeological Museum IST – 14 $ 141 (Tuesday calls) Mykonos Island Tour & Myconian Aperitif MYK – 09 $ 68 $ 42 Piraeus Athens City Tour & Acropolis PIR – 01 $ 91 $ 60 Athens & the Picturesque Plaka PIR – 03 $ 80 $ 45 Messina Taormina MES – 01 $ 78 $ 50 Mount Etna MES – 02 $ 75 $ 50 Tindari MES – 03 $ 78 $ 50 Marseilles Panoramic Tour of Marseilles MRS – 01 $ 70 $ 45 Aix en Provence MRS – 02 $ 71 $ 47  Prices in USD per person Adult or Child  Children: 3 – 12 years  Prices are subject to change. These changes may occur due to unexpected increases in the cost of transportation, land arrangements currency fluctuations.

Approx. Duration 3 ½ hrs 5 hrs 4 hrs 3 ½ hrs 3 hrs 7 hrs 5 ½ hrs 5 ½ hrs 7 hrs 3 ½ hrs 4 hrs 4 hrs 4 ½ hrs 4 ½ hrs 4 ½ hrs 4 hrs 4 hrs

and / or major

* On Tuesday calls IST - 02 will be replaced by IST - 14 GENOA, ITALY

Genoa City Tour (GOA – 01) Half day Depart from the pier by coach with the local guide and drive along the famous Via Gramsci in order to reach the centre of the town and to admire the main monuments of this ancient Sea Republic. From the coach you will see the famous Aquarium of Genoa, built in 1992, in front of Palazzo S. Giorgio, once the seat of the Captain of People and the first bank in Italy. You will reach Columbus' House and here you will leave the coach for a stroll in the historical centre to visit St. Lawrence Cathedral, the atrium of Ducal Palace and St. Jesus Church, where it will be possible to admire two paintings by Rubens. You will discover the beauty of Piazza De Ferrari, the heart of the town dominated by a wonderful bronze fountain and overlooked by the Carlo Felice Theatre. Afterwards you will proceed by coach up to the hill of Carignano to have a complete view over the centre and then back down to Piazza della Vittoria with the Arch to the death during the First World War. REMARKS: The tour includes visits to religious sites, knees and shoulders must be covered. Portofino (GOA – 02) Half day Departure with the local guide by coach from Genoa and through the highway (about 40 minutes drive), you will reach Rapallo. Here you will begin a brief drive through the Via Aurelia, the Roman "Golden Sun Road" towards Santa Margherita, a renowned and elegant resort of the Ligurian Coast. Then you will board the boat to reach Portofino. The brief cruise (about 10 minutes) will give you the chance to admire the wonderful landscape of the Promontory of Mount Portofino: the green and rich vegetation, the wild rocks, the little inlets and the lonely beaches, often reachable only from the sea. Enter in the gorgeous Bay of Portofino: once a quiet fishermen village, with its typical coloured houses overlooking the square and the tiny port, it has become a must for the international and most exclusive tourism over the last few years. After visiting the Church of St. George, where the relics of the Saint are preserved and admired the ancient fortress of Brown Castle, you will be given some free time to discover on your own the alleys and hidden small corners. The boat will then take you back to Santa Margherita where the coach will be awaiting to transfer you back to the ship. REMARKS: This tour is subject to sea condition and if the sea is rough you will reach Portofino by public bus. There may be difficulties for the wheelchairs to get on the boat. The tour includes visits to religious sites, knees and shoulders must be covered.

Griffon 1, Cusrow Baug, S.B.S. Road, Colaba, Mumbai 400039. Tel.: (022) 2204 7532 / 2204 5019  Fax: (022) 2283 0461  Email: [email protected]

Italy Shore Excursions 2011 …2… KATAKOLON, GREECE

Excursion to Olympia (KAT – 01) Half day A 40 minutes drive from Katakolon will bring you to the ancient city of Olympia. One of the most important sanctuaries of antiquity, dedicated to the father of the gods Olympian Zeus. Olympia is the birth-place of the Olympic Games and also where they were held for the first time. Enter the famous archaeological site of Olympia and marvel at the Temple of Hera, in front of which burns the Olympic Flame during modern day Olympic Games. See the Temple of Zeus, where the Golden and Ivory statue of Zeus (one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World) was housed and the original Stadium and Bouleuterion, unique in history, where once competitors swore an oath to conform to the rules. Follow your guide and walk a short distance to visit the world famous Archaeological Museum of Olympia where you can admire, amongst many priceless exhibits, the marble statues of the Temple of Zeus and the unique statue of Hermes, carved by the ancient Greek sculptor Praxiteles. Afterwards, free time will be given before returning back to the ship. REMARKS: Passengers may not be allowed to enter the site with big bags/rucksacks.

SANTORINI, GREECE

Excursion to Oia Village (SAN – 01) Half day Driving along the road you will have the unique opportunity to admire the panoramic view of the Aegean Sea and the neighbouring islands. A unique sight is the various layers of lava that can be seen on the face of the rock, each layer being another phase of the activity of the volcano. Built on the Caldera rim, Oia Village is an excellent example of Cycladic architecture. Explore the village walking along the cobble-stone streets and the white washed houses with blue shutters where one gets the impression that they are a beautiful travel poster. Your excursion will end in Fira where your guide will show you the way to the cable car and you will make your own way back to the ship. Santorini Sailing & Volcano (SAN – 02) Half day Enjoy a cruise (on motorboat) around the active crater of Nea Kameni islet. Sail along the strange formations of its volcanic shores, where black lava rocks and white pumice are combined beautifully with the red colour of lava. Take a walk to the top of the volcanic island where sulphur is spewed into the air by one of the craters. Enjoy this surreal landscape as your guide narrates the creation and history of the volcano and the last eruption leading to the destruction of the island of Santorini. The tidal wave created by the eruption was of such an immense magnitude, it destroyed the thriving city of Knossos on the island of Crete. As your caique enters the narrows of the two lava islets, Palea and Nea Kameni, the colour of the water changes from dark blue to sulphur green. In the distance, admire the breathtaking sight of Fira town with its white washed houses clinging precariously on the rim of the Caldera. Take time to swim in the warm waters heated by Hot Springs on the sea floor. Your excursion will end in Fira where your guide will show you the way to the cable car and you will make your own way back to the ship. REMARKS: The tour will be available from April to September and is subject to weather conditions. It is recommended to bring your swimsuit and a towel.

ISTANBUL, TURKEY

Highlights of Istanbul (IST – 02) Extended half day Begin your excursion with an orientation drive through the business centre of the modern city, across the Galata Bridge, along the banks of the Golden Horn and under the Byzantine Aqueduct of Valens. On the way, you will see the Süleymaniye Mosque, dedicated to Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent. You will continue around the mighty city walls, which once protected Constantinople from the many invasions and attacks it incurred over the centuries. Reach the Old City and walk through the immense gardens of Topkapi, you will amaze then with the visit of the magnificent Topkapi Palace, the official residence of the Ottoman Sultans. See the famous treasury section with “Spoonmaker’s Diamond”, the 7th biggest diamond in the world. Continue your visit with the world famous monument of Hagia Sophia, the Byzantine Church of Divine Wisdom, where you can marvel at the superb mosaics and the marble decorations. Your next stop will be to the Byzantine Hippodrome, which was once one of the largest chariot race grounds of the Byzantine Empire. Visit the Sultanahmet Mosque, where large groups of pilgrims commence their pilgrimage to Mecca. It is decorated with 21,000 blue Iznik tiles naming it the “Blue Mosque”. Your excursion will end with a trip to the exotic Grand Bazaar where you will have the chance to see a special demonstration of Turkish Carpets and have the opportunity for shopping. REMARKS: Shoulders and knees must be covered while visiting the Mosque and shoes must be removed. On Monday calls Hagia Sophia is closed and will be replaced with the visit of the Underground Cistern. On Sunday calls the Grand Bazaar is closed and will be replaced with the visit of the Spice Market. Tour not available on Tuesday calls; it will be replaced by the tour “The Highlights of Istanbul with Archaeological Museum” (IST – 14).

Griffon 1, Cusrow Baug, S.B.S. Road, Colaba, Mumbai 400039. Tel.: (022) 2204 7532 / 2204 5019  Fax: (022) 2283 0461  Email: [email protected]

Italy Shore Excursions 2011 …3… ISTANBUL, TURKEY

Scenic Bosphorus Cruise & Bazaars (IST – 12) Half day Start your tour with a short orientation drive through the modern city of Istanbul, crossing the Galata Bridge en route to the Golden Horn. The impressive Süleymaniye Mosque, built by Turkish architect Sinan and dedicated to Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent can be viewed on the way. At the Golden Horn, take a short walk to the Cruise Boat Station where your private boat will be waiting for your enchanted trip on the Bosphorus. You will sail past Dolmabahce and Ciragan Palaces built on the European shore, glide under the Bosphorus Bridge and pass Beylerbeyi Palace, Anatolian Fortress and Kanlica on the Asian shore. You will have the chance to take great photographs cruising between these two continents. After you reach the shore, continue your tour with the visit of the Spice Market (Egyptian Bazaar) which is one of the oldest bazaars in the city. Full of colours and aromas that will tantalize your senses. You tour will end with the visit of Grand Bazaar where you will have the chance to see a special demonstration of Turkish Carpets and have the opportunity for shopping. REMARKS: On Sunday calls the Grand Bazaar is closed. Flavours & Treasures of Istanbul (IST – 13) Half day Begin your excursion with an orientation drive through the business centre of the modern city, across the Galata Bridge, along the banks of the Golden Horn and under the Byzantine Aqueduct of Valens. On the way, see the Süleymaniye Mosque, dedicated to Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent. You will continue around the mighty city walls, which once protected Constantinople from the many invasions and attacks it incurred over the centuries. In the Old City, your first visit will be to the Byzantine Hippodrome, which was once one of the largest chariot race grounds of the Byzantine Empire. Visit the Sultanahmet Mosque, where large groups of pilgrims commence their pilgrimage to Mecca. It is decorated with 21,000 blue Iznik tiles naming it the “Blue Mosque”. Walk to the world famous monument of Hagia Sophia, the Byzantine Church of Divine Wisdom, where you can marvel at the superb mosaics and the marble decorations. Your excursion will end with a trip to the exotic Grand Bazaar where you will have the chance to see a special demonstration of Turkish Carpets and have the opportunity for shopping. REMARKS: Shoulders and knees must be covered while visiting the Mosque and shoes must be removed. On Sunday calls the Grand Bazaar is closed and will be replaced with the visit of the Spice Market. On Monday calls Hagia Sophia is closed and will be replaced with the visit of the Underground Cistern. Highlights of Istanbul with Archaeological Museum (IST – 14) Extended half day Begin your excursion with an orientation drive through the business centre of the modern city, across the Galata Bridge, along the banks of the Golden Horn and under the Byzantine Aqueduct of Valens. On the way, you will see the Süleymaniye Mosque, dedicated to Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent. You will continue around the mighty city walls, which once protected Constantinople from the many invasions and attacks it incurred over the centuries. The tour will continue with the visit to Archaeology Museum of Istanbul. Built by the end of 19th Century, it includes the Tiled Kiosk and the Museum of Ancient Orient and houses a large collection of artifacts and works of art belonging to ancient Greek, Roman and other Anatolian civilizations. The Sarcophagus of Alexander the Great, Sarcophagus of Mourning Lady and other ancient sarcophagi and various objects found in the Sidon excavation are among its most interesting pieces. Continue your visit with the world famous monument of Hagia Sophia, the Byzantine Church of Divine Wisdom, where you can marvel at the superb mosaics and the marble decorations. Your next stop will be to the Byzantine Hippodrome, which was once one of the largest chariot race grounds of the Byzantine Empire. Visit the Sultanahmet Mosque, where large groups of pilgrims commence their pilgrimage to Mecca. It is decorated with 21,000 blue Iznik tiles naming it the “Blue Mosque”. Your excursion will end with a trip to the exotic Grand Bazaar where you will have the chance to see a special demonstration of Turkish Carpets and have the opportunity for shopping. REMARKS: Tour available only on Tuesday calls replacing the tour “Highlights of Istanbul” (IST-03).

MYKONOS, GREECE

Island Tour & Myconian Aperitif (MYK – 09) Half day Mykonos is world famous. It is the most cosmopolitan of all Greek islands and attracts many visitors from all over the globe, including large numbers of artists and intellectuals. The bus will depart from Tourlos for a drive to a vantage point overlooking the city where a panoramic view reveals the magic of Mykonos. On the way you will see the beautiful beaches of Ag. Ioannis, Ornos and Kalafatis, before arriving at the village of Ano Mera. In the heart of Mykonos, this is a traditional Greek village with its famous Monastery which will be visited during the tour. “Hora” is the island’s capital where you will enjoy a walking tour in the narrow cobbled streets of the town, passing by chic boutiques, elegant nightclubs and white–washed houses until reaching Alefkandra. Alefkandra is a charming corner of Hora, also known as the "Venice" of Mykonos. The houses are built on the sea, with wooden balconies that evoke Venice. These were built from the mid. 18th Century onward and were homes of wealthy merchants and captains. Walking in the white washed narrow streets of Mykonos town is an unforgettable experience. At Louis Teoxenia Hotel, you will enjoy the atmosphere while drinking a refreshment accompanied by Greek “meze”. You will then board your bus for the way back to the ship or have some free time in Mykonos centre. In this case the return to the port will be using the ship’s shuttle service.

Griffon 1, Cusrow Baug, S.B.S. Road, Colaba, Mumbai 400039. Tel.: (022) 2204 7532 / 2204 5019  Fax: (022) 2283 0461  Email: [email protected]

Italy Shore Excursions 2011 …4… PIRAEUS, GREECE

Athens City Tour and Acropolis (PIR – 01) Half day This tour is an introduction to the splendour of the Golden Age of Athens and the modern 21st Century city. The port of Piraeus itself is one of the finest examples of city planning in antiquity. On arrival in Athens you will visit the Acropolis on which stands the Parthenon, the symbol of classical architecture. The entrance to the top of the hill is through the Propylea, the ‘gates’ through which the Panathinea processions used to enter. Built totally of white marble, they cover an area of 50 m across the whole western face of the Acropolis. Next to them is the temple of Athena Niki also known as the “Wingless Victory”. The Parthenon is the main temple, built in honour of Goddess Athena. Her statue decorated the centre of the temple and it was made of ivory and gold. Next to the Parthenon stands the smaller Temple of Erechthion with lovely sculptured young maidens supporting the roof of the porch. From the top of the Acropolis you can admire the ancient theatre of Herodes Atticus with its remarkable acoustic. Performances are still held here each summer being the highlight of cultural events in the Eastern Mediterranean. Leaving the Acropolis, the tour will take you by the tomb of the Unknown Soldier, guarded by the “evzones” dressed in their traditional costume, the Parliament and the Panathinaikon Stadium where the first Olympics of modern times were held in 1896. The entire stadium is built of pure white marble. Your drive continues by the Library – the Academy – the University, three buildings representing 19th Century architecture blended with the classical influence. The tour then will pass by Omonia Square, the commercial centre of the city and Syntagma Square, which is the business and cultural centre. There will be time during the tour for you to browse and do a little shopping at the stores located at the base of the Acropolis. REMARKS: Handicapped passengers may join the tour but will have to remain at the base of the Acropolis as the visit to the Acropolis involves approximately 80 steep steps. Passengers may not be allowed to enter the site with big bags/rucksacks. Athens & the Picturesque Plaka (PIR – 03) Half day Leaving the port of Piraeus, one of the finest examples of city planning in antiquity, the coach takes the coastal road leading to the city that hosted the 2004 Olympic Games. On arriving in Athens, you will start the city sightseeing driving past the Temple of Zeus, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, guarded by the “evzones” dressed in their traditional costume, the Parliament and the Panathinaikon Stadium where the first Olympics of modern times were held in 1896. The whole stadium is built of pure white marble. The drive will continue by the Library – the Academy – the University, three buildings representing 19th Century architecture blended with the classical influence. The tour then will pass by Omonia Square, the commercial centre of the city and Syntagma Square, which is the business and cultural centre. Your Athens’ city sightseeing will end at a leading café at the foot of the Acropolis, from where you can view all the majestic monuments of the amazing Acropolis while enjoying your refreshment. The tour will continue to the old part of the city called Plaka where you can explore its mainly pedestrian streets with picturesque houses, shops and numerous cafés. After the free time in Plaka you will board your coach for the return journey to Piraeus port. REMARKS: The Acropolis will only be viewed from a distance. The Plaka area will be explored on foot. A refreshment or a coffee will be offered at a café located at the base of the Acropolis.

MESSINA, ITALY

Taormina (MES – 01) Half day Depart from the pier by coach with a local guide; through the highway you will reach Taormina, about 50 km away. The small town, which became one of the most popular Mediterranean sun spots, is perched on a terrace overlooking the sea and has a delightful medieval character. Upon arrival you will leave the coach at the bus terminal and start the walking tour, during which you will admire (outside) the famous Gothic Corvaja Palace dating back to the 15th Century. Afterwards you will visit (inside) the impressive Greek Theatre, amazing for its spaciousness, its extraordinary acoustics and its stunning location. This theatre was reconstructed in Roman style in the 2nd Century A.D. with a diam of 110 m. It is the second largest theatre in Sicily after Syracuse. From the upper tiers spectacular views reveal majestic Mt. Etna, Europe's largest and still active volcano. Before returning to the ship, you will have some free time for a stroll in the broad pedestrian area where you will have the possibility to shop for local handicrafts or walk to Piazza del Duomo for a glance at the old Dominican Monastery, now a de-luxe hotel. REMARKS: We remind you that Taormina is a complete pedestrian area. Please note that the journey from Messina to Taormina is approx. 45 minutes. Mount Etna (MES – 02) Half day After leaving the pier by coach with the local guide, you will drive through the centre of the town until the highway to Monte Etna. Along the scenic road that winds around the slopes of the mountain, passing the town of Giarre and the village of Zafferana, you will arrive at Monte Etna - Cratere Silvestri, at about 1,950 m on the sea level. Monte Etna is the European largest active volcano. The slopes soar up to over 3,296 m and the flanks of the mountain are covered with scores of cones and craters. You will have the chance to admire breathtaking views, but of course the major attraction is the crater and the remnants of the awe inspiring streams of lava. Later you will drive back to Messina and the ship. REMARKS: We remind you the tour to Mount Etna is subject to weather conditions and is subject to the permission given by the local Competent Authorities. The drive from Messina to Mount Etna lasts approximately two hours depending on the traffic and the itinerary that is followed to reach the volcano.

Griffon 1, Cusrow Baug, S.B.S. Road, Colaba, Mumbai 400039. Tel.: (022) 2204 7532 / 2204 5019  Fax: (022) 2283 0461  Email: [email protected]

Italy Shore Excursions 2011 …5… MESSINA, ITALY

Tindari (MES – 03) Half day You will meet the local guides at the pier and depart by coach through the highway to reach Tindari. Tindari is an important archaeological site on the northern Sicilian coast, founded by the Greeks in 396 B.C.. It was a prosperous centre under the Roman rule and afterwards it was destroyed by the Arab invaders. You will have the chance to visit the archaeological excavations and admire the wonderful Greek Theatre and the Decumanus. Afterwards you will proceed to the esplanade where the Sanctuary stands; here you will admire the wonderful statue of the Black Virgin, which according to the legend was miraculously taken here from the East. Afterwards you will drive back to Messina to join the ship. REMARKS: Tour not suitable for passengers with walking difficulties. Please note that the journey from Messina to Tindari is approx. 75 minutes each way.

MARSEILLES, FRANCE

Panoramic Tour of Marseilles (MRS – 01) Half day For 2,600 years, Marseilles has been a port. From Massalia, the Phocean city, to Marseilles “gateway to the East”, the maritime adventure and the rapid expansion of trade in the 19th Century are evoked from the Old Port. The large historic buildings representing many political and religious symbols which tell the story of the city can be seen on this itinerary. They are all there: Saint Victor Abbey, Notre Dame de la Garde Basilica, the Cathedrals, Palais Longchamps and the famous Old Port with the Canebière. You can also see all of the large residences, villas and mansions. The exceptional site of the Corniche: architectural surprises, extravagance or elegance, Frioul Islands, If Castle and splendid views of the sea can be seen everywhere. REMARKS: The tour includes visits to religious sites, knees and shoulders must be covered. Aix en Provence (MRS – 02) Half day Aix is a town of water and a town of culture. Its history has been shaped by its spas and by the arts. Whether in the narrow streets of the old town, in the moss of its numerous fountains, on the pediments of mansions or in the surrounding countryside, the glorious past of Provence’s former capital has been miraculously preserved. Aix en Provence is also the town of the tempestuous writer Mirabeau and famous painter Paul Cézanne. You will start your tour by visiting University Square and Saint Sauveur Cathedral facing it. This building was first founded in the 4th Century and then gradually modified in the Romanesque style. A few yards away, there are 12th Century cloisters with admirable arcades and columns. A little further on stand the magnificent Town Hall and the Clock Tower with its splendid astronomical clock. You will then continue until you will reach Cours Mirabeau, an elegant avenue lined with plane trees and Café fronts. This avenue delimits the aristocratic part of the town, the Mazarin quarter (17th – 18th centuries) where everything is luxurious and beautiful: flamboyant mansions with enormous grounds behind high walls and finely chiselled statues on the pediments of the buildings. Take time to stroll around the pedestrian streets, taste the famous Calissons and relax on the shaded café terraces. REMARKS: Please note that the journey from Marseilles to Aix en Provence is approx. 40 minutes. The tour includes visits to religious sites, knees and shoulders must be covered.

Griffon 1, Cusrow Baug, S.B.S. Road, Colaba, Mumbai 400039. Tel.: (022) 2204 7532 / 2204 5019  Fax: (022) 2283 0461  Email: [email protected]