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Sailing the Mediterranean Sea At h e n s to M a lta A b oa r d t h e S e a C lo u d

O ctober 1 to 11, 2013

a progra m of the sta nford a lumni association

To see the Mediterranean through the eyes of the ancients is thrill enough. But pair that with viewing the magnificent scenery and glorious ruins of Greece and Sicily from the deck of the splendid four-masted Sea Cloud sailing yacht, well, it just doesn’t get much better. Accompany faculty leader Marsh McCall as he reads passages from ancient classics on the very sites mentioned in those works of antiquity and watch history come to life before your eyes. On other shore excursions, roam amid glimmering white, pocket-size villages and landscapes laced with the ruins of kings’ palaces, traces of famous ancient battles and sites where gods and demons tarried. Welcome aboard!

Brett S. Thompson, ’83, Director, Stanford Travel /Study

Highlights

monemvasia

caption

C R U I S E storied waters

S E E Actium where Antony

E X P L O R E the Sicilian

u n co v er the beauty of

for eight nights aboard the original Sea Cloud, perhaps the most luxurious four-masted yacht sailing the seas today.

and Cleopatra lost one of the ancient world’s most pivotal naval battles to Roman commander Octavian, the future Augustus.

aerie of Taormina, nestled high above the Ionian Sea with views of snow-capped, smoking Mt. Etna.

Ithaca, a gem in the Ionian Islands that is rarely visited by tourists and served as home to the mythical Odysseus.

preveza

taormina

GREECE

I TA LY

Actium Preveza Ithaca

Taormina

Ionian

S I C I LY

Sea

Siracusa

Athens Piraeus

Pylos Monemvasia

Gozo

Valletta

M A LTA

Medi

Itinerary T uesday & W ednesday, O ctober 1 & 2 U.S. / ATHENS, GREECE

Depart the U.S. on overnight flights arriving in Athens on Wednesday. Check in to the renowned Grand Bretagne Hotel across from the Greek Parliament building on Syntagma Square. GRAND BRETAGNE HOTEL

T hursday, O ctober 3 ATHENS / EMBARK SEA CLOUD

After breakfast and a welcome orientation, visit the ancient monuments atop the Acropolis, then become immersed in the Acropolis treasures on display in the spectacular new museum at the foot of the historic outcropping. After a traditional taverna lunch, board Sea Cloud, our luxurious home for the next eight nights. SEA CLOUD (B,L,D) F riday, O ctober 4 MONEMVASIA

Arrive in Monemvasia, which sits on a small peninsula linked to the Peloponnese mainland by a short causeway. Once a notorious lair of Levantine

terranean Sea

corsairs, it’s now a picturesque town with narrow cobblestone streets that offer panoramic views of the sea and are lined with architectural vestiges of Byzantine, Venetian and Ottoman periods. SEA CLOUD

CRETE

it’s famous for its association with the mythical Odysseus (Ulysses), whose victory over the Trojans and arduous 10-year journey home were described by Homer in The Odyssey. SEA CLOUD (B,L,D)

(B,L,D)

S aturday, O ctober 5 PYLOS

Sail into one of the most beautiful bays in the Mediterranean, disembarking at the charming town of Pylos, built around a leafy square. Take a short drive to the Bronze Age palace ruins of the Mycenaean king, Nestor, whose stories of conquest in the Trojan War were brought to life by Homer in The Iliad. The citadel ruins include frescoes and massive stone walls. Nearby is a well-preserved tholos, similar to the beehive tombs found in ancient Mycenae and Crete. SEA CLOUD (B,L,D)

S unday, O ctober 6 ITHACA

Ithaca, a beautiful island of lush vegetation and spectacular beaches, surprisingly is off the typical tourist track. One of the seven Greek islands that comprise the Ionian Islands,

M onday, O ctober 7 preveza / ACTIUM

Dock this morning at Preveza, where we delve into the historymaking battle of Actium, fought between the combined naval forces of Mark Antony and Cleopatra and the Roman commander Octavian. After visiting the new museum in Nikopolis, climb to a promontory overlooking the battle site to see where the Roman navy’s smaller and more nimble ships defeated Antony’s 500 heavy galleys and sent Queen Cleopatra and her paramour scurrying for Alexandria and ignominy. SEA CLOUD (B,L,D) T uesday, O ctober 8 AT SEA

Relax during a day at sea as the seasoned hands aboard the Sea Cloud climb high up the four masts to unfurl the sails. Experience the fresh breezes,

Aegean Sea

impressive maneuvering and superb seamanship of the crew as we leave the Ionian shores for Sicily. Enjoy a festive, below-decks tour of Sea Cloud’s original staterooms, justifiably acclaimed by sailing cognoscenti. SEA CLOUD (B,L,D) W ednesday, O ctober 9 TAORMINA, SICILY

Cruise past the Strait of Messina, where Odysseus’ legendary sailors were devoured by the six-headed monster Scylla while avoiding the tempestuous Charybdis whirlpool. Arrive at Giardini Naxos and disembark for enticing Taormina, just a short funicular ride up to this mountain aerie. Tour the beautifully situated ancient Greco-Roman theater, which looks out over the sea and, in the distance, smoking snowcapped Mt. Etna. After an introduction to the town’s ancient sites, enjoy time to explore Taormina independently. SEA CLOUD (B,L,D)

siracusa

siracusa

T hursday, O ctober 10 SIRACUSA

Once a powerful threat to the hegemony of Athens, Siracusa was founded on the small island of Ortigia by Greek Corinthians. Because of its strategic location, it was conquered and ruled by Romans, Saracens, Byzantines, Normans and Ottomans at various times. They left a legacy in Siracusa, acknowledged by its UNESCO World Heritage status, of temples, cathedrals, theaters, agoras and amphitheaters. Also view the Caravaggio-named Ear of Dionysius and the splashing Arethusa Fountain, surrounded by lush plantings of papyrus. SEA CLOUD (B,L,D)

F riday, O ctober 11 VALLETTA, MALTA

Cruise into the stunning harbor of Valletta, past the imposing walls of the 16th-century crusader fortress, and disembark for flights home. Or stay for an optional two-night extension and explore the island where Odysseus was captivated as a “prisoner of love” by the nymph Calypso, who delayed his quest to return home. (B)

Optional PostVoyage Extension in Malta O ctober 11 to 13, 2013

Explore the city built by the Knights Hospitaller Order of St. John, who relocated here after their defeat at Rhodes by the Ottomans. Tour Valletta’s Co-Cathedral and Baptistery (for a look at Caravaggio’s masterpiece, The Beheading of St. John the Baptist), and visit the National Archaeology Museum and Barracca Gardens. On day two, ferry to the smaller island of Gozo to view the UNESCO-designated prehistoric Ggantija Temples complex, see the Citadel in Victoria and enjoy the relaxing ambience and scenic views at Xlendi and Dwejra Bays before returning to Valletta. Details will be sent to confirmed passengers.

valletta, malta taormina

category F cabin

lido deck bar

Sea Cloud

Program Cost*

A journey aboard the Sea Cloud, which carries only 54 travelers, is an intimate experience on one of the most elegant and luxurious vessels afloat. Her snow-white hull, warm teak superstructure and gleaming brass fittings define her rich tradition and heritage. Although she is equipped with auxiliary diesel engines, sails are the essence of this cruise experience and they are unfurled as often as possible. Built during a time when the greatest attention was paid to detail and fine craftsmanship, the Sea Cloud is decorated with original oil paintings, antique furniture, rich wood paneling and brassand-bronze fixtures. On the main deck, original staterooms are beautifully appointed in their individual styles, some with fireplaces, and each with a private marble bath with a tub and/or shower. Lunch and dinner include fine wine and beer; there is one seating at dinner. The ship’s technical equipment includes the latest in radar, satellite navigational aids and satellite communications; there is also an onboard doctor.

Rates are per person, based on double occupancy unless otherwise specified. Category

A

double single rate rate**

$8,995

$12,995

Stateroom on Promenade Deck with upper and lower twin beds and shower.

B

$9,995 ---

Stateroom on Promenade Deck with two lower twin beds and shower.

C

$11,495 $16,995

Stateroom on Lido or Promenade Deck with queen bed or two lower twin beds and shower.

D

$13,995 ---

Superior stateroom on Main Deck with queen bed or two lower twin beds and bathtub or shower.

34

32

37

35

33

E 30

brIdGe

36

31

lido deck

$14,995 ---

Original stateroom on Main Deck with queen bed or two lower twin beds and bathtub and shower.

F

$18,995 ---

28 29

24

22

20

18

25

23

21

19

bAr

Original owner’s suite on Main Deck with king bed and bathtub and shower. 16

restAurAnt

Promenade deck

10 9

Main deck

8

6

7

5

4

2

3

1

hosPItAl

17

14 15

*Association nonmembers add $200 per person. **Single accommodations are limited at these rates. Ship Specifications Registry: Malta / Gross Tonnage: 2,532 pounds / Length: 360 feet / Beam: 50 feet / Draft: 17 feet

Information

Terms & Conditions

Dates

Deposit & Final Payment A $1,000-per-person deposit is required to hold space for this program. An additional $200-perperson deposit is required to hold space for the optional post-trip extension. Complete and return the attached reservation form or sign up online. Final payment is due 120 days prior to departure. As a condition of participation, all confirmed participants are required to sign a Release of Liability.

October 1 to 11, 2013 (11 days) Size

Limited to 54 participants Included

1 night of deluxe hotel accommodations 8-night cruise aboard the Sea Cloud 9 breakfasts, 8 lunches and 8 dinners Welcome and farewell cocktail receptions Wine and beer at meals aboard the Sea Cloud Bottled water on excursions Gratuities to porters, guides, drivers and ship crew for all group activities All tours and shore excursions as described in the itinerary Transfers and baggage handling on program arrival and departure days Port fees and embarkation taxes Minimal medical, accident and evacuation insurance Educational program with lecture series and pre-departure materials, including recommended reading list, a selected book, map and travel information Services of our professional tour manager to assist you throughout the program Not Included

International and U.S. domestic airfare Passport and visa fees Immunization costs Meals and beverages other than those specified as included Independent and private transfers Trip-cancellation/interruption and baggage insurance Excessbaggage charges Personal items such as internet access, telephone and fax calls, laundry and gratuities for nongroup services Air Arrangements

International and U.S. domestic airfare is not included in the program cost. Round-trip, economy-class airfare on Lufthansa from San Francisco to Athens and return from Malta is approximately $1,300 as of October 2012 and is subject to change without notice. Fuel Costs

In the uncertain, often volatile oil market of late, it is difficult to predict fuel costs over the long term and, more specifically, at the time of operation of this voyage. Our prices are based upon the prevailing fuel rates at the time of brochure printing. While we will do everything possible to maintain our prices, if the fuel rates increase significantly, it may be necessary to institute a fuel surcharge. Wh at to E x pect

We consider this program to be mildly active. Most of our touring is done by motorcoach and boat. Travelers will have ample opportunity to take in the beautiful scenery from the comfort of our ship. Daily shore excursions involve one to three miles of walking, in some cases, on uneven terrain at archaeological sites. These days are complemented with lectures and leisure time aboard ship. Participants must be physically fit, active and in good health. We welcome travelers 15 years of age and older on this program.

Cancellations & Refunds Deposits and any payments are fully refundable, less a $500-perperson cancellation fee, until 120 days prior to departure. After that date, refunds can be made only if the program is sold out and your place(s) can be resold, in which case a $1,000-per-person cancellation fee will apply. We recommend trip-cancellation insurance; applications will be sent to you. Insurance Stanford Travel/Study provides all travelers who are U.S. or Canadian citizens with minimal medical, accident and evacuation coverage under our group-travel insurance policy. Our group policy is intended to provide minimal levels of protection while you are traveling on this program. We strongly recommend that you subscribe to optional baggage and trip-cancellation insurance. A brochure offering such insurance will be mailed with your confirmation about one week after we receive your deposit. The product offered in this brochure includes special benefits if you postmark your insurance payment within a specified window: 15 days of the date listed on the confirmation letter for the Waiver of Pre-existing Conditions and coverage for Financial Insolvency; 21 days for the Cancel for Any Reason benefit. Eligibility We encourage membership in the Alumni Association as the program cost for nonmembers is $200 more than the members’ price. Parents and their children under 21 may travel on one membership. For more information or to purchase a membership, visit alumni.stanford. edu/goto/membership or call (650) 725-0692.

Responsibility The Stanford Alumni Association, Stanford University and our operators act only as agents for the passenger with respect to transportation and ship arrangements and exercise every care possible in doing so. However, we can assume no liability for injury, damage, loss, accident, delay or irregularity in connection with the service of any automobile, motorcoach, launch or any other conveyance used in carrying out this program or for the acts or defaults of any company or person engaged in conveying the passenger or in carrying out the arrangements of the program. We cannot accept any responsibility for losses or additional expenses due to delay or changes in air or other services, sickness, weather, strike, war, quarantine, force majeure or other causes beyond our control. All such losses or expenses will have to be borne by the passenger as tour rates provide arrangements only for the time stated. We reserve the right to make such alterations to this published itinerary as may be deemed necessary. The right is reserved to cancel any program prior to departure in which case the entire payment will be refunded without further obligation on our part. The right is also reserved to decline to accept or retain any person as a member of the program. No refund will be made for an unused portion of any tour unless arrangements are made in sufficient time to avoid penalties. It is understood that the ship’s ticket, when issued, shall constitute the sole contract between the passenger and the cruise company. Baggage is carried at the owner’s risk entirely. The airlines concerned are not to be held responsible for any act, omission or event during the time that passengers are not onboard their plane or conveyance. Neither the Alumni Association, Stanford University nor our operators accept liability for any carrier’s cancellation penalty incurred by the purchase of a nonrefundable ticket in connection with the tour. Program price is based on rates in effect in October 2012 and is subject to change without notice to reflect fluctuations in exchange rates, tariffs or fuel charges.

California Seller of Travel Program Registration #2048 523-50

© COPYRIGHT 2012 STANFORD ALUMNI ASSOCIATION. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Printed on recycled, FSC-certified paper in the U.S.

Stanford Faculty Leader M a r s h M c C a l l decided he would become a teacher when he was in the third grade

and went on to fulfill that desire, introducing legions of university students to the study of classics during a decades-long professorship at Stanford. Long one of Travel/Study’s most popular faculty leaders, Professor McCall has enchanted more than a thousand participants on over 35 Travel/Study programs with his lectures and on-site readings of classical authors. As Professor McCall says, “What makes the trips so intensely rewarding is being able to stand on-site and read in translation some of the passages from the great works of antiquity that are connected to that location.”

“Marsh McCall made the trip come to life. His passion is infectious!”







— Stanford professor of classics since 1976; former chair, classics department; associate dean, undergraduate studies; chair, Western culture program committee; and dean, Continuing Studies — Recipient of the Dinkelspiel Award for outstanding service to undergraduate education, the Lyman Award for faculty volunteer service and the Phi Beta Kappa Teacher of the Year Award — PhD, classics, Harvard University

G r e t c h en , ’ 6 7, a n d Ri c h a r d , ’ 6 8 , G r a n t , M e d i t e r r a ne a n College , 2 0 11

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Reservation Form Sailing the Mediterranean Sea

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P SIGN U ! ONLINE

If this is a reservation for one person, please indicate: I wish to have single accommodations. I plan to share accommodations with __________________________ OR I’d like to know about possible roommates. OR

NAME AGE STANFORD CLASS MR. / MRS. / MS. MISS / DR. / PROF.

NAME

AGE

Category Preference: 1st choice: ____________________________

Twin Beds

Queen Bed

2nd choice: ____________________________

Twin Beds

Queen Bed

STANFORD CLASS

Here is my deposit of $________ ($1,000 per person) for ______ space(s), plus $________ ($200 per person) for the optional Malta post-trip extension.

ADDRESS

Enclosed is my check (make payable to Stanford Alumni Association) OR  harge my deposit to my: C Visa MasterCard American Express

CITY / STATE / ZIP

WORK PHONE

CARD # AUTHORIZED CARDHOLDER SIGNATURE

EMAIL ADDRESS

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Signature _________________________________________________________

MR. / MRS. / MS. MISS / DR. / PROF.

CELL PHONE

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I/We have read the Terms and Conditions for the program and agree to them.

O ctob er 1 to 11, 2013

HOME PHONE

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EXPIRES DATE

Mail completed form to address on mail panel or fax to (650) 725-8675 or place your deposit online at alumni.stanford.edu/trip?med2013. Please submit your reservation only once to avoid multiple charges to your account.

8781

Stanford Travel/Study Frances C. Arrillaga Alumni Center 326 Galvez Street Stanford, CA 94305-6105 (650) 725-1093

Sailing the Mediterranean Sea

Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Stanford Association

At h e n s to M a lta A b o a r d t h e S e a C lo u d

O ctob e r 1 to 11, 2013

alumni.stanford.edu/goto/travelstudy

“Intellectual content, convenience and care for participants, a varied cast of fellow travelers— what’s not to like?” Co r neli a S t r a w se r , ’ 5 3 , M e d i t e r r a ne a n College , 2 0 1 1

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