37-Day Solar Eclipse: Riviera Gems & Greek Isles

The 37-Day Solar Eclipse: Riviera Gems & Greek Isles is a 37-night Western Mediterranean cruise aboard Seabourn Ovation, operated by Seabourn. Departing Barcelona on July 15, 2027, the voyage visits 32 ports. Fares start from $30,591 per person.

Length: 37 nights
Departs: Jul 15, 2027
Returns: Aug 21, 2027
Ports of call: 32
Days at sea: 6

from $30,591

$826 / night per person, incl. taxes & fees

Book with CruiseDirect Book direct with Seabourn

We may earn a commission

from $30,591 pp

via CruiseDirect

Book

Book direct with Seabourn we may earn a commission

Itinerary

Day 1 Jul 15, 2027 Barcelona Departs 17:00 On the northeast coast of Spain, overlooking the Mediterranean, Barcelona is a vibrant port city, packed with centuries of iconic art and architecture—Gaudí and Picasso both called it home—and lined with sunny white-sand beaches. Explore the Catalan capital's tourist attractions and historic neighborhoods, Modernisme and world-renowned art museums, galleries and local crafts shops—some of which are centuries old and stock traditional Catalan wares. After you see the sights, there are lively tapas bars around every corner where you can stop for a drink, a café amb llet (Catalan for espresso with steamed milk) or a snack, no matter the hour. Green spaces for picnics, long walks and respite from the hustle and bustle are scattered throughout Barcelona's attractions: There's Gaudí's mosaic-decorated park, a neoclassical maze at the Laberint d'Horta, as well as plenty of high places (mountains, monuments and edifices) where sightseeing visitors can take in the view. A short trip from Barcelona by car or train, luxury outlets, cava wineries, a mountaintop abbey and the sandy beaches of the Mediterranean coast await. Barcelona port guide Search cruises visiting Barcelona

Barcelona photo — Day 1 Jul 15, 2027 Barcelona Departs 17:00 On the northeast coast of Spain, overlooking the Mediterranean, Barcelona is a vibrant port city, packed with centuries of iconic art and architecture—Gaudí and Picasso both called it home—and lined with sunny white-sand beaches. Explore the Catalan capital's tourist attractions and historic neighborhoods, Modernisme and world-renowned art museums, galleries and local crafts shops—some of which are centuries old and stock traditional Catalan wares. After you see the sights, there are lively tapas bars around every corner where you can stop for a drink, a café amb llet (Catalan for espresso with steamed milk) or a snack, no matter the hour. Green spaces for picnics, long walks and respite from the hustle and bustle are scattered throughout Barcelona's attractions: There's Gaudí's mosaic-decorated park, a neoclassical maze at the Laberint d'Horta, as well as plenty of high places (mountains, monuments and edifices) where sightseeing visitors can take in the view. A short trip from Barcelona by car or train, luxury outlets, cava wineries, a mountaintop abbey and the sandy beaches of the Mediterranean coast await. Barcelona port guide Search cruises visiting Barcelona

Day 2 Jul 16, 2027 Valencia 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore Valencia is Spain's third largest city and capital of the region. It was originally founded by the Romans on the banks of the river Turia in 138 BC. In 711 AD the Moors arrived and converted the area into a rich agricultural and industrial center, establishing ceramics, paper, silk and leather industries. Muslim rule was briefly interrupted in 1094 by the legendary Castillian knight, El Cid. Valencia boomed in the 15th and 16th centuries, becoming one of the strongest Mediterranean trading centers. Valencia is a vibrant, friendly and chaotic city that boasts an outstanding fine arts museum and one of the most exciting nightlife scenes in Spain. The city center is about 3 miles inland from the coast. Plaza del Ayuntamiento marks the center of Valencia. Surrounded by flower stalls, it is also home to the town hall and the main post office. The cathedral was begun in the 13th century and finished in 1482. It has many architectural styles, including Gothic, Baroque and Romanesque. The octagonal bell-tower, called Miguelete, is one of the city's landmarks. The small cathedral museum boasts a tabernacle made from 550 pounds of gold, silver, platinum, emeralds and sapphires. It also purports to be the home of the Holy Grail, the cup used by Christ at the Last Supper. West of the cathedral is the oldest part of the city, known as El Carme. Situated across the river in the Jardines del Real is the Museo de Bellas Artes, the Fine Arts Museum. Works include those by El Greco, Goya and Velázquez. Valencia port guide Search cruises visiting Valencia

Valencia photo — Day 2 Jul 16, 2027 Valencia 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore Valencia is Spain's third largest city and capital of the region. It was originally founded by the Romans on the banks of the river Turia in 138 BC. In 711 AD the Moors arrived and converted the area into a rich agricultural and industrial center, establishing ceramics, paper, silk and leather industries. Muslim rule was briefly interrupted in 1094 by the legendary Castillian knight, El Cid. Valencia boomed in the 15th and 16th centuries, becoming one of the strongest Mediterranean trading centers. Valencia is a vibrant, friendly and chaotic city that boasts an outstanding fine arts museum and one of the most exciting nightlife scenes in Spain. The city center is about 3 miles inland from the coast. Plaza del Ayuntamiento marks the center of Valencia. Surrounded by flower stalls, it is also home to the town hall and the main post office. The cathedral was begun in the 13th century and finished in 1482. It has many architectural styles, including Gothic, Baroque and Romanesque. The octagonal bell-tower, called Miguelete, is one of the city's landmarks. The small cathedral museum boasts a tabernacle made from 550 pounds of gold, silver, platinum, emeralds and sapphires. It also purports to be the home of the Holy Grail, the cup used by Christ at the Last Supper. West of the cathedral is the oldest part of the city, known as El Carme. Situated across the river in the Jardines del Real is the Museo de Bellas Artes, the Fine Arts Museum. Works include those by El Greco, Goya and Velázquez. Valencia port guide Search cruises visiting Valencia

Day 4 Jul 18, 2027 Mahon, Spain 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore Mahon is the capital of Menorca, second largest of the Balearic Islands. It stands out from the others because of the abundance of prehistoric structures, and because its culture was influenced by British occupation in the 18th century. The people who built the prehistoric constructions are believed to have been responsible for similar works in Sardinia, and for Stonehenge in England. Believed to have been founded by the Carthaginian General Mago, Mahon was held by the Moors from the 8th to the 13th century and in turn occupied by the English, the French and the Spanish. Mahon was finally ceded to Spain by the Treaty of Amiens in 1802. Mahon, Spain port guide Search cruises visiting Mahon, Spain

Day 5 Jul 19, 2027 Palamos 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore One of the best ways to arrive in Catalonia is by sea, especially via the Costa Brava. This coastline, also known as the Rugged or Wild Coast, stretches from Blanes to the French border. Its name aptly refers to the steep cliff of ancient twisted rocks, which runs its entire length and is bounded inland by the Catalan mountain ranges. The intensity of the coast's colour, the ruggedness of the rocks and the scent of the plants all combine to add to its attraction. The port of Palamos, some 36 miles northeast of Barcelona, has been in existence for nearly 700 years thanks to its location on one of the deepest natural bays in the western Mediterranean. The town itself is the southernmost of a series of resorts popular with sun worshippers. For the most part, Palamos has managed to retain some of the charm of a fishing village. The port also serves as a gateway to such inland locations as Girona, the capital of the province. Art lovers may want to visit Figueras, famous for its bizarre Teatre-Museu Dali, the foremost of a series of sites associated with the eccentric surrealist artist, Salvador Dali. Palamos port guide Search cruises visiting Palamos

Day 6 Jul 20, 2027 Port Vendres 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore The gem of the Vermillion Coast, the chosen retreat of kings past, the inspiration of great 20th-century artists, Collioure is nestled in a small, rocky bay, dwarfed by the Alberes Mountains. The village is perfectly integrated into the countryside; the church and the stone chateau are the color of the rocks, the beach and the mountains. The town has kept much of its medieval character, with the bay separated into halves by the 13th-century royal castle of the Kings of Mallorca. Between the castle and the sea is a bustling old town, full of cafes, shops and art galleries. Among the great artists who have congregated here are Matisse, Picasso, Braque, Dufy and Derain.

Day 7 Jul 21, 2027 Sete, France 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore n the beginning, under the gallo-romans Sète was known as Ceta or Sita. It was a town on the island of Mont Saint Clair, and made a name for itself in the production of pickled fish. Soon fishing built the towns wealth, making it the envy of local lords and barons. Under the control of the Abbot of Aniane since the 9th century, Sete came under the bishop of Agde in 1246, no doubt to provoke the King of Aragon and the bishops of Maguelone. During this time the lagoon closed up creating the Bassin de Thau. Similarly, silt forced the eventual closure of the then sea ports of Aigues Mortes, Agde, and Narbonne. Under the Duke of Montmorency, Governor of Languedoc, Sète became the definitive Languedoc port, replacing those that had died under the mud. It became the base to hunt the last of the privateers led by the infamous Barbe Rousette. In 1596, construction work was started on a jetty that was to serve to protect the port from the storms of the sea. Because of financial problems the jetty was not completed until 1666 by Colbert. Finally Sète was a secure anchorage for commerce and the royal fleet, as well as a sea entrance for the Canal du Midi. The town was officially created by a decree of the Council of State on 30 September 1673. Forty years later in July 1710, the English attacked and seized the port with apparently little difficulty, before eventually being hunted out. Consequently Languedoc immediately improved the defenses at Fort Saint Pierre and the Citadelle Richeleu. Two centuries later the town was almost totally destroyed whilst being liberated by the allies at the end of the second World War. However, Sète was quickly reborn to become the principal fishing port for France on the Mediterranean. Sete, France port guide Search cruises visiting Sete, France

Sete, France photo — Day 7 Jul 21, 2027 Sete, France 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore n the beginning, under the gallo-romans Sète was known as Ceta or Sita. It was a town on the island of Mont Saint Clair, and made a name for itself in the production of pickled fish. Soon fishing built the towns wealth, making it the envy of local lords and barons. Under the control of the Abbot of Aniane since the 9th century, Sete came under the bishop of Agde in 1246, no doubt to provoke the King of Aragon and the bishops of Maguelone. During this time the lagoon closed up creating the Bassin de Thau. Similarly, silt forced the eventual closure of the then sea ports of Aigues Mortes, Agde, and Narbonne. Under the Duke of Montmorency, Governor of Languedoc, Sète became the definitive Languedoc port, replacing those that had died under the mud. It became the base to hunt the last of the privateers led by the infamous Barbe Rousette. In 1596, construction work was started on a jetty that was to serve to protect the port from the storms of the sea. Because of financial problems the jetty was not completed until 1666 by Colbert. Finally Sète was a secure anchorage for commerce and the royal fleet, as well as a sea entrance for the Canal du Midi. The town was officially created by a decree of the Council of State on 30 September 1673. Forty years later in July 1710, the English attacked and seized the port with apparently little difficulty, before eventually being hunted out. Consequently Languedoc immediately improved the defenses at Fort Saint Pierre and the Citadelle Richeleu. Two centuries later the town was almost totally destroyed whilst being liberated by the allies at the end of the second World War. However, Sète was quickly reborn to become the principal fishing port for France on the Mediterranean. Sete, France port guide Search cruises visiting Sete, France

Day 8 Jul 22, 2027 Sanary-Sur-Mer, France 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore Nestled between Marseilles and Toulon, the port of Sanary-sur-Mer is located in Provence on the Cote d’Azur, and is arguably the sunniest place in France. Its beautiful coastline is dotted with small beaches, while Sanary’s quiet, pedestrian streets cluster around the medieval 13th century watchtower—now home to the Frédéric Dumas Diving Museum, and featuring original equipment of undersea explorer Jacques Cousteau. Visit église Saint Nazaire, a late 19th century Gothic Revival church, or admire the view from the Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-Pitié, built in 1560. Cap your stay with a stroll along the palm-lined harbor, where you’ll find rows of old Provençal wooden fishing boats, pointus, and if you’re lucky, some local fishermen selling the day’s catch. Or simply taste the freshest seafood in any number of Sanary restaurants and enjoy watching the bustle of everyday life in this charming and inviting town.

Day 9 Jul 23, 2027 Monte Carlo 07:00 – 17:00 10.0 hrs ashore The independent principality of Monaco is famous as the playground of the Côte d'Azur. With sandy beaches, elegant hotels and a vibrant nightlife, this tiny domain is a favourite haunt of the jet set. In the possession of the Grimaldi family for more then 700 years, treaties with France guarantee Monaco's independence. The population of the fashionable enclave is 32,000 citizens, for an area smaller than New York's Central Park, but it boasts some of the most expensive real estate in the world. In addition to its luxury hotels and beautiful beaches, Monaco is noted for its mild climate and magnificent scenery. Once an exclusive wintering stop for Europe's aristocracy and royalty, today there are more than 5 million visitors annually. Of the principality's four sections - La Condamine, Fontvieille, Monaco-Ville and Monte Carlo, the latter two rank highest on every visitor's must-see list. In Monte Carlo, the Grand Casino and Opera is perhaps Monaco's most outstanding attraction. For more than a century, the principality's livelihood was centred beneath the copper roof of this splendid establishment. The resemblance to the Paris Opera House is less than accidental since they share the same architect, Charles Garnier. Also facing the square are the famed Hotel de Paris and the more modest Café de Paris. Monte Carlo spells sophistication; it is the epitome of elegance and glamour. Year after year, the rich and famous of business and entertainment gather here to bask in the sun, gamble at the world's most opulent casino and attend spectacular parties. Nothing typifies more the elegant lifestyle of the Côte d'Azur than glamorous Monte Carlo. Situated on a rocky peninsula, Monaco-Ville comprises the old town and the seat of Monaco's government. Narrow streets lead to the Prince's Palace high above the sea. The 19th-century Romanesque cathedral contains impressive works of art and the tombs of Princess Grace and Prince Rainer III, while the Parliament building and the Oceanographic Museum offer additional points of interest. As if Monaco's splendid attributes weren't enough, the surrounding areas with their incredibly beautiful scenery are additional attractions. Monte Carlo port guide Search cruises visiting Monte Carlo

Monte Carlo photo — Day 9 Jul 23, 2027 Monte Carlo 07:00 – 17:00 10.0 hrs ashore The independent principality of Monaco is famous as the playground of the Côte d'Azur. With sandy beaches, elegant hotels and a vibrant nightlife, this tiny domain is a favourite haunt of the jet set. In the possession of the Grimaldi family for more then 700 years, treaties with France guarantee Monaco's independence. The population of the fashionable enclave is 32,000 citizens, for an area smaller than New York's Central Park, but it boasts some of the most expensive real estate in the world. In addition to its luxury hotels and beautiful beaches, Monaco is noted for its mild climate and magnificent scenery. Once an exclusive wintering stop for Europe's aristocracy and royalty, today there are more than 5 million visitors annually. Of the principality's four sections - La Condamine, Fontvieille, Monaco-Ville and Monte Carlo, the latter two rank highest on every visitor's must-see list. In Monte Carlo, the Grand Casino and Opera is perhaps Monaco's most outstanding attraction. For more than a century, the principality's livelihood was centred beneath the copper roof of this splendid establishment. The resemblance to the Paris Opera House is less than accidental since they share the same architect, Charles Garnier. Also facing the square are the famed Hotel de Paris and the more modest Café de Paris. Monte Carlo spells sophistication; it is the epitome of elegance and glamour. Year after year, the rich and famous of business and entertainment gather here to bask in the sun, gamble at the world's most opulent casino and attend spectacular parties. Nothing typifies more the elegant lifestyle of the Côte d'Azur than glamorous Monte Carlo. Situated on a rocky peninsula, Monaco-Ville comprises the old town and the seat of Monaco's government. Narrow streets lead to the Prince's Palace high above the sea. The 19th-century Romanesque cathedral contains impressive works of art and the tombs of Princess Grace and Prince Rainer III, while the Parliament building and the Oceanographic Museum offer additional points of interest. As if Monaco's splendid attributes weren't enough, the surrounding areas with their incredibly beautiful scenery are additional attractions. Monte Carlo port guide Search cruises visiting Monte Carlo

Day 10 Jul 24, 2027 Portofino 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore Sailing along the glorious Italian Riviera coastline, it’s easy to miss Portofino, the perfect fishing village tucked away in a beautiful tree-sheltered bay just south of Genoa. However its pastel-coloured houses, overlooking the harbour lined with super-yachts, is a gem waiting to be discovered. Chic boutiques and fabulous seafood restaurants fringe the small, cobbled Portofino Piazzetta. A path leads from the square to the imposing Castello Brown, a 16th century fortress that towers over a gorgeous hanging garden. Its museum has art exhibitions and offers panoramic views of the Ligurian Sea. The 12th century Church of San Giorgio – Portofino’s patron saint, and the lighthouse on Punta del Capo both merit a visit, and also offer unspoilt views of the bay. Arriving at Portofino via the warm, aquamarine waters surrounding the peninsula is an unforgettable experience in itself. Little wonder so many artists, celebrities and members of the ‘jet-set’ dock their expensive yachts here every summer. A drink by Portofino's harbour or a stroll around its designer shops provides a rich slice of the good life. Portofino port guide Search cruises visiting Portofino

Day 11 Jul 25, 2027 Calvi 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore The enigmatic beginnings of Christopher Columbus's past has prompted rumors of his true birthplace. Calvi is the site of one of these rumors. This is not fully provable, but it reveals the local transmission of Mediterranean folklore. Spanish and Roman influences have long contributed to the fortification of this French port city. Calvi is located on the coast of L'ille Rousse on the island of Corsica. Corsica is positioned between Spain and Italy in very close proximity to Sardinia. Romans resided on the island during the neolithic period. The Citadelle of Calvi is the central point of town. This 15th century fortress served as military outpost, tower and protected the city from intercontinental attacks. It created a picturesque and sturdy lot for the restoration of the governor's palace. Watch for brick walls, tunnels, and windy stairs throughout the city. The citadel is conveniently entered from rue Christopher Colomb, the main paved street in Calvi. Rue de Fil is a smaller side street off the quai Landry. It leads to the alleged birthplace of Christopher Columbus. Since Corsica was once a part of the Genoese empire, local authorities have rationalized Calvi as the potential, historical home of Columbus. In the course of visiting these historical attractions, you may incidentally become attracted to quai Landry. Quai Landry is the beachside main line of restaurants, shops, bars, and hotels. It connects the marina to the port along a beach walkway. Calvi port guide Search cruises visiting Calvi

Calvi photo — Day 11 Jul 25, 2027 Calvi 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore The enigmatic beginnings of Christopher Columbus's past has prompted rumors of his true birthplace. Calvi is the site of one of these rumors. This is not fully provable, but it reveals the local transmission of Mediterranean folklore. Spanish and Roman influences have long contributed to the fortification of this French port city. Calvi is located on the coast of L'ille Rousse on the island of Corsica. Corsica is positioned between Spain and Italy in very close proximity to Sardinia. Romans resided on the island during the neolithic period. The Citadelle of Calvi is the central point of town. This 15th century fortress served as military outpost, tower and protected the city from intercontinental attacks. It created a picturesque and sturdy lot for the restoration of the governor's palace. Watch for brick walls, tunnels, and windy stairs throughout the city. The citadel is conveniently entered from rue Christopher Colomb, the main paved street in Calvi. Rue de Fil is a smaller side street off the quai Landry. It leads to the alleged birthplace of Christopher Columbus. Since Corsica was once a part of the Genoese empire, local authorities have rationalized Calvi as the potential, historical home of Columbus. In the course of visiting these historical attractions, you may incidentally become attracted to quai Landry. Quai Landry is the beachside main line of restaurants, shops, bars, and hotels. It connects the marina to the port along a beach walkway. Calvi port guide Search cruises visiting Calvi

Day 12 Jul 26, 2027 Ajaccio 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore Most famous as the birthplace of a diminutive, strong-willed local who went on to become known simply as Napoleon, the port of Ajaccio is Corsica’s small, walkable capital. The roots of this city on the island’s western coast are said to go back to another strong man, the Greek hero Ajax. Only 200 miles from its parent France, you might as well be in another country on Corsica, where everything from the food to the language is unique. Anchored by a magnificent citadel and a fine Baroque cathedral, Ajaccio is filled with pastel buildings whose wooden shutters keep out the Mediterranean sun, while its streets, plazas and statues are all marked by Napoleon’s aura. Dining and shopping along the palm tree–studded waterfront have been popular since the days of English travelers in the 19th century—activities that have once again marked daily life in the port since De Gaulle liberated the town and island in World War II. Ringed by craggy natural formations both on land and sea, as well as stunning sandy beaches, Ajaccio’s surroundings are easily explored on a drive along the windy Corniche or by heading inland to explore the rugged villages of the interior. Ajaccio port guide Search cruises visiting Ajaccio

Ajaccio photo — Day 12 Jul 26, 2027 Ajaccio 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore Most famous as the birthplace of a diminutive, strong-willed local who went on to become known simply as Napoleon, the port of Ajaccio is Corsica’s small, walkable capital. The roots of this city on the island’s western coast are said to go back to another strong man, the Greek hero Ajax. Only 200 miles from its parent France, you might as well be in another country on Corsica, where everything from the food to the language is unique. Anchored by a magnificent citadel and a fine Baroque cathedral, Ajaccio is filled with pastel buildings whose wooden shutters keep out the Mediterranean sun, while its streets, plazas and statues are all marked by Napoleon’s aura. Dining and shopping along the palm tree–studded waterfront have been popular since the days of English travelers in the 19th century—activities that have once again marked daily life in the port since De Gaulle liberated the town and island in World War II. Ringed by craggy natural formations both on land and sea, as well as stunning sandy beaches, Ajaccio’s surroundings are easily explored on a drive along the windy Corniche or by heading inland to explore the rugged villages of the interior. Ajaccio port guide Search cruises visiting Ajaccio

Day 13 Jul 27, 2027 Bonifacio 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore Beloved by the French, yet still relatively undiscovered by the rest of the world, the French island of Corsica is a gem. And right at its southern tip lies Bonifacio, a medieval town known as the “the city of sentinels”. Closer to Rome than Paris (and less than an hour’s ferry ride to Sardinia), Bonifacio remains one of the Mediterranean’s best kept secrets. The first thing you should know is that Bonifacio is stunning. And by that, we mean, awe-inspiringly beautiful. The town itself is worthy of a painting – a long, hilltop town that snakes over milky white limestone cliffs that stretch for 70 kilometres. The turquoise blue seas that lap at the foot of these are both warm and clear, and a joy for bathers of all ages. Although the cliffs have proved perilous to sailors in the past - Bonifacio counts the wreckage of the French Navy’s 1855 ship Semillante among its most visited diving sites and top tourist attractions. It is also here, in the harbour, that scholars place the catastrophic encounter between Ulysses's fleet and the Laestrygonians, who hurled lethal boulders down from the cliffs. The proximity of nearby Sardinia is everywhere. The islands were once joined before volcanic activity tore them apart, and much of the local dialect – still prevalently used particularly in the back country – is heavily influenced by Italian. This is also true for the local cuisine; think large plates of thinly sliced charcuterie and stuffed pasta filled with creamy local brocciu, a cheese similar to ricotta. Bonifacio port guide Search cruises visiting Bonifacio

Day 14 Jul 28, 2027 Olbia/Sardinia 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore Situated on the beautiful North East coast of Sardinia, Olbia is often ignored in the dash for the fashionable Costa Smeralda resort, but the port has more to offer than first meets the eye. This handsome city, with its centro storico (historic centre), is laden with chic boutiques, wine bars and cafe-rimmed piazzas. It also has a number of historic structures and archaeological sites well worth discovering. These include the beautiful 11th century Basilica of San Simplicio and the Church of St. Paul Apostle. Several of Sardinia's impressive, fortress-like Nuraghes still remain including the hilltop Nuraghe Riu Mulinu. Called the ‘happy city’ by the Greeks, ancient Olbia is a wonderful place to explore and enjoy in the soothing Sardinian sunshine. On the palm-lined waterfront to the east, the Museo Archeologico di Olbia has Roman warships to discover.Show less Just north from the city is Costa Smeralda, a millionaire’s paradise which is popular with celebrities and wealthy business people who visit to top-up their tan on the gorgeous golden-sand beaches – said to be among the finest on earth – and make the most of the warm, crystal clear waters. Olbia/Sardinia port guide Search cruises visiting Olbia/Sardinia

Olbia/Sardinia photo — Day 14 Jul 28, 2027 Olbia/Sardinia 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore Situated on the beautiful North East coast of Sardinia, Olbia is often ignored in the dash for the fashionable Costa Smeralda resort, but the port has more to offer than first meets the eye. This handsome city, with its centro storico (historic centre), is laden with chic boutiques, wine bars and cafe-rimmed piazzas. It also has a number of historic structures and archaeological sites well worth discovering. These include the beautiful 11th century Basilica of San Simplicio and the Church of St. Paul Apostle. Several of Sardinia's impressive, fortress-like Nuraghes still remain including the hilltop Nuraghe Riu Mulinu. Called the ‘happy city’ by the Greeks, ancient Olbia is a wonderful place to explore and enjoy in the soothing Sardinian sunshine. On the palm-lined waterfront to the east, the Museo Archeologico di Olbia has Roman warships to discover.Show less Just north from the city is Costa Smeralda, a millionaire’s paradise which is popular with celebrities and wealthy business people who visit to top-up their tan on the gorgeous golden-sand beaches – said to be among the finest on earth – and make the most of the warm, crystal clear waters. Olbia/Sardinia port guide Search cruises visiting Olbia/Sardinia

Day 15 Jul 29, 2027 Civitavecchia, Rome 07:00 – 18:00 11.0 hrs ashore All roads lead to Rome, and with good reason - this city is one of the world’s most thrilling, offering unmatched history along every street. An evocative, inspiring and utterly artistic capital of unrivalled cultural impact, Rome is a city of back-to-back landmarks, which will take you on an exhilarating journey through the ages. This may be one of the world’s oldest cities, but it’s well and truly lived in. The ruins are punctuated with murmuring cafes, and the outdoor seating of restaurants sprawls out across piazzas, enticing you to sample tangles of creamy pasta and crispy pizzas. Rome’s incredible Roman Forum is littered with the ruins of its ancient administrations, which have stood firm for 2,000 years, since the times when the area was the centre of the Western world. Few sites are more simultaneously beautiful and haunting than that of the storied Colosseum, which looms deep into Rome’s rich blue sky. Take a tour to learn details of the grisly goings-on within. The best way to experience Rome is to wander its streets, gelato in hand. There is a lot to see here - whether it’s the domed spectacle of the Pantheon, or the elaborate flowing waters and artistry of the Trevi Fountain. Vatican City is an astonishing, colossal display of Catholic grandeur, while the Spanish Steps – crowned by the Trinità dei Monti church – offer a beautiful spot to gather and soak up the lively atmosphere of this humming city. With so much on the to-do list, you’ll relish the breaks you take, enjoying simple pleasures like a strong espresso, or fresh pasta with tomato sauce and ripped basil. Civitavecchia, Rome port guide Search cruises visiting Civitavecchia, Rome

Day 16 Jul 30, 2027 Amalfi, Italy 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore Spectacular tiers of colour splashed houses cascade down to immeasurably blue seas and hidden coves, along Italy’s premier coastline. Lemon groves and vineyards bask in the country’s generous southern sun, running alongside dramatic mountain precipices, and dazzlingly romantic fishing villages. The Amalfi Coast is rightly celebrated as a treasure of Italy, and you can enjoy the true scale of it, and the feel of the salty sea breeze in your hair, as you hike the Path of the Gods - where some of the best heavenly views of the beautiful beaches and improbably teetering villages open up below you. The call of beachside bliss is never far away, and descending down to Duoglio Beach is a mesmerising introduction to the coastline’s jagged rock setting and crystalline waters. A dramatic ramp of steps rears up to Amalfi's distinctive black and white striped, Moorish-influenced cathedral, which stands at the heart of the town. Inside, tranquillity awaits amid the arches and columns of the Cloister of Paradise. Chattering piazzas, where ice cubes clink in glowing spritz cocktails, and strong espressos are savoured, hum with life nearby. Enjoy plates of shellfish tangled spaghetti or spicy pezzente salami in your choice of the Amalfi Coast’s celebrated restaurants, before tasting locally-squeezed limoncello - the perfect denouement to any meal here. Grand villas, spectacular restaurants and well-heeled visitors have long given Amalfi a reputation for refined luxury, but things haven’t always been so peaceful here. In the 10th and 11th centuries, Amalfi was an independent maritime republic, and the Municipal Museum of Amalfi is the place to learn of the region’s rise to global trading prominence, and the devastating tsunami that washed it all away in 1343. Amalfi, Italy port guide Search cruises visiting Amalfi, Italy

Day 17 Jul 31, 2027 Taormina 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore On the heights above the Strait of Messina between Sicily and the Italian mainland, the Greeks built a magnificent city, later expanded by the Romans. Its strategic location ensured its continued importance throughout history, and today makes it one of the most attractive and important archaeological sites in Europe. The dominant feature is the large Greco-Roman theater, which boasts striking views of the still-active volcano Mt. Etna. Ruins and remnants are strewn across the hillside setting, inviting visitors to stroll and explore, either on their own or with guides. The town, likewise, is loaded with charm and appeal that invites walking and wonder. Snow-capped Mt. Etna is accessible for visitors when it is not too active. Taormina port guide Search cruises visiting Taormina

Taormina photo — Day 17 Jul 31, 2027 Taormina 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore On the heights above the Strait of Messina between Sicily and the Italian mainland, the Greeks built a magnificent city, later expanded by the Romans. Its strategic location ensured its continued importance throughout history, and today makes it one of the most attractive and important archaeological sites in Europe. The dominant feature is the large Greco-Roman theater, which boasts striking views of the still-active volcano Mt. Etna. Ruins and remnants are strewn across the hillside setting, inviting visitors to stroll and explore, either on their own or with guides. The town, likewise, is loaded with charm and appeal that invites walking and wonder. Snow-capped Mt. Etna is accessible for visitors when it is not too active. Taormina port guide Search cruises visiting Taormina

Day 18 Aug 1, 2027 Malta 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore The UNESCO-protected port of Valletta, the capital of the island of Malta, is one of the must-see stops for every Mediterranean cruise of merit. You can admire this port, constructed in the second half of the 16th century by the Frenchman Jean de la Valette and moulded by the religious and military Order of Saint John of Jerusalem, from your MSC ship even before disembarking. The over 300 monuments rising in little more than half a square kilometre make this a place with one of the greatest density of historical attractions to visit during a cruise, not mentioning other attractions such as its beaches, seaside locales and restaurants. An excursion to the island can start right from its capital, Valletta, which enchants the cruise-goer with its famous Maltese balconies, which decorate the facades of houses in its old quarter. Surrounded by a multitude of churches, which the islanders assure are as many as the days of the year, the St. John’s Co-Cathedral is one of Malta’s biggest tourist attractions. The National Museum of Archaeology, on the other hand, hosts prehistoric artefacts found on the island. By the Grand Harbour, one can visit the underground passages of Auberge de Castille and the beautiful Baracca Gardens, which overlook the harbour; at night, when the city gates would close, its porticoes served as shelter for travellers. To get a taste of the life of Malta’s ancient nobility, visit Casa Rocca Piccola. A 16th century Palazzo now the residence of the 9th Marquis De Piro, it has period furnishings and has a bomb shelter built for protection against bombings during the Second World War. The set of the film Popeye can still be seen from Malta’s largest beach, as well as the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Mellieha with a fresco of the Blessed Virgin Mary with Christ; according to tradition, Saint Luke, who was shipwrecked on the island with Saint Paul, is the author of this Byzantine-style fresco. Malta port guide Search cruises visiting Malta

Malta photo — Day 18 Aug 1, 2027 Malta 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore The UNESCO-protected port of Valletta, the capital of the island of Malta, is one of the must-see stops for every Mediterranean cruise of merit. You can admire this port, constructed in the second half of the 16th century by the Frenchman Jean de la Valette and moulded by the religious and military Order of Saint John of Jerusalem, from your MSC ship even before disembarking. The over 300 monuments rising in little more than half a square kilometre make this a place with one of the greatest density of historical attractions to visit during a cruise, not mentioning other attractions such as its beaches, seaside locales and restaurants. An excursion to the island can start right from its capital, Valletta, which enchants the cruise-goer with its famous Maltese balconies, which decorate the facades of houses in its old quarter. Surrounded by a multitude of churches, which the islanders assure are as many as the days of the year, the St. John’s Co-Cathedral is one of Malta’s biggest tourist attractions. The National Museum of Archaeology, on the other hand, hosts prehistoric artefacts found on the island. By the Grand Harbour, one can visit the underground passages of Auberge de Castille and the beautiful Baracca Gardens, which overlook the harbour; at night, when the city gates would close, its porticoes served as shelter for travellers. To get a taste of the life of Malta’s ancient nobility, visit Casa Rocca Piccola. A 16th century Palazzo now the residence of the 9th Marquis De Piro, it has period furnishings and has a bomb shelter built for protection against bombings during the Second World War. The set of the film Popeye can still be seen from Malta’s largest beach, as well as the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Mellieha with a fresco of the Blessed Virgin Mary with Christ; according to tradition, Saint Luke, who was shipwrecked on the island with Saint Paul, is the author of this Byzantine-style fresco. Malta port guide Search cruises visiting Malta

Day 21 Aug 4, 2027 Sarande 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore While travelers have been visiting the Albanian Riviera since antiquity, the region is, with reason, often described as up-and-coming. Long overlooked because of Albania's political isolation from the rest of Europe, this 80-kilometer (50-mile) stretch of the northern Ionian Sea has seaside towns and stunning blue waters that visitors are now rediscovering. Strange concrete pillboxes are still visible, but other vestiges of the Communist era are thankfully fading away. The southern anchor of this coast is Sarandë, whose ancient inhabitants were said to be the descendants of the ancient Greek hero Achilles. Today, the city has become a proverbial boomtown, with the population tripling in summer. Less than 10 miles from the popular Greek tourist island of Corfu, Sarandë now sees plenty of day-trippers coming over on the short ferry ride. With a smooth horseshoe curve to its waterfront, and with fine palm-lined promenades upon which young honeymooners stroll, one wonders: What took so long? Like a mini San Francisco, the city is built around a series of stairs that lead from the top of the hill, dominated by a castle, down to the seafront. Its easy access to the sea helps explain the city’s reputation for serving excellent, fresh seafood. Sarandë is also a convenient base from which to visit a plethora of ancient ruins and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Sarande port guide Search cruises visiting Sarande

Sarande photo — Day 21 Aug 4, 2027 Sarande 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore While travelers have been visiting the Albanian Riviera since antiquity, the region is, with reason, often described as up-and-coming. Long overlooked because of Albania's political isolation from the rest of Europe, this 80-kilometer (50-mile) stretch of the northern Ionian Sea has seaside towns and stunning blue waters that visitors are now rediscovering. Strange concrete pillboxes are still visible, but other vestiges of the Communist era are thankfully fading away. The southern anchor of this coast is Sarandë, whose ancient inhabitants were said to be the descendants of the ancient Greek hero Achilles. Today, the city has become a proverbial boomtown, with the population tripling in summer. Less than 10 miles from the popular Greek tourist island of Corfu, Sarandë now sees plenty of day-trippers coming over on the short ferry ride. With a smooth horseshoe curve to its waterfront, and with fine palm-lined promenades upon which young honeymooners stroll, one wonders: What took so long? Like a mini San Francisco, the city is built around a series of stairs that lead from the top of the hill, dominated by a castle, down to the seafront. Its easy access to the sea helps explain the city’s reputation for serving excellent, fresh seafood. Sarandë is also a convenient base from which to visit a plethora of ancient ruins and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Sarande port guide Search cruises visiting Sarande

Day 22 Aug 5, 2027 Bari 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore Bari, capital of the province of Apulia, lies on southern Italy's Adriatic coast. Its busy port is a leading commercial and industrial centre as well as a transit point for travellers catching ferries across the Adriatic to Greece. Bari comprises a new and an old town. To the north, on a promontory between the old and new harbours, lies the picturesque old town, or Citta Vecchia, with a maze of narrow, crooked streets. To the south is the spacious and regularly planned new town, which has developed considerably since 1930, when the Levant Fair was first held here. The heart of the modern town is Piazza della Liberta. The busy thoroughfare, Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, separates the new town from the old. At the eastern end of the Corso begins the Lungomare Nazario Sauro, a magnificent seafront promenade that runs along the old harbour. Bari and the Apulian region were long recognized for their strategic location, attracting a succession of colonizers such as the Normans, Moors and Spaniards, each leaving their mark. Romanesque churches and powerful castles built by 13th-century Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II of Swabia are among the most impressive buildings in the region. Bari's Basilica of San Nicola became famous as the final resting place of St. Nicholas (Santa Claus). According to local tradition, sailors from Bari went to Myra in Turkey, stole the saint's remains and brought them back to Bari. St. Nicholas was the popular bishop of Myra, who was revered as the patron of sailors, virgins and children. In addition to unspoiled scenery and historical sites, Apulia is also known for its hearty cuisine that has evolved from more than 2,000 years of foreign influences. While not as famous as other areas in Italy, Bari and its surrounding region hold many surprise attractions that make it well worth exploring this ancient land and its capital at the heel of Italy's boot. Bari port guide Search cruises visiting Bari

Bari photo — Day 22 Aug 5, 2027 Bari 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore Bari, capital of the province of Apulia, lies on southern Italy's Adriatic coast. Its busy port is a leading commercial and industrial centre as well as a transit point for travellers catching ferries across the Adriatic to Greece. Bari comprises a new and an old town. To the north, on a promontory between the old and new harbours, lies the picturesque old town, or Citta Vecchia, with a maze of narrow, crooked streets. To the south is the spacious and regularly planned new town, which has developed considerably since 1930, when the Levant Fair was first held here. The heart of the modern town is Piazza della Liberta. The busy thoroughfare, Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, separates the new town from the old. At the eastern end of the Corso begins the Lungomare Nazario Sauro, a magnificent seafront promenade that runs along the old harbour. Bari and the Apulian region were long recognized for their strategic location, attracting a succession of colonizers such as the Normans, Moors and Spaniards, each leaving their mark. Romanesque churches and powerful castles built by 13th-century Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II of Swabia are among the most impressive buildings in the region. Bari's Basilica of San Nicola became famous as the final resting place of St. Nicholas (Santa Claus). According to local tradition, sailors from Bari went to Myra in Turkey, stole the saint's remains and brought them back to Bari. St. Nicholas was the popular bishop of Myra, who was revered as the patron of sailors, virgins and children. In addition to unspoiled scenery and historical sites, Apulia is also known for its hearty cuisine that has evolved from more than 2,000 years of foreign influences. While not as famous as other areas in Italy, Bari and its surrounding region hold many surprise attractions that make it well worth exploring this ancient land and its capital at the heel of Italy's boot. Bari port guide Search cruises visiting Bari

Day 23 Aug 6, 2027 Dubrovnik 07:00 – 23:00 16.0 hrs ashore Croatia’s crowning glory rears up vertically from the tranquil waters of the Adriatic, and Dubrovnik’s daunting fortresses town is a truly imposing sight to behold. Encircled by chunky stone walls so thick and dramatic they could have been purpose-built as a film set, this city’s unmatched old town is the setting for countless films and shows - from Star Wars to Robin Hood, Game of Thrones and every production in-between seeking a truly authentic medieval flavour. This fantasy fortress’s walls - which are no less than 12-metres thick at places - are certainly not just for show, however. They kept Dubrovnik safe when it was a maritime republic and they were besieged as recently as 1991, when Serbian and Montenegrin forces attacked, as Yugoslavia broke apart. Fully restored now, the stone streets of the city take you through a beautiful mosaic of architectural splendour, baroque churches and splashing fountains. Tapering alleys rocket up from the central boulevard of Stradun, offering spectacular views down, but you’ll need to walk the city walls to appreciate the fortress city’s full scale. Banking up sharply to the rear, you can gaze across an ocean of terracotta roofs and church spires, clamouring together before the sparkling Adriatic. Visit the neighbouring fort of Lovrijenac, for another perspective, or swing up to Srd fortress’s glorious panorama on a cable car. Dubrovnik’s streets are crammed with eateries and candlelit tables, where couples splash wine into glasses and enjoy gnocchi mixed with creamy truffle sauces. Nearby beaches like Banje are also close by, and hidden bays reward the intrepid who venture out beyond the old town. Take sunset drinks to sit back and watch as flotillas of sea kayaks roll by, or sail on the pristine waters to explore island gems like Lokrum - where peacocks are the only permanent residents. Dubrovnik port guide Search cruises visiting Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik photo — Day 23 Aug 6, 2027 Dubrovnik 07:00 – 23:00 16.0 hrs ashore Croatia’s crowning glory rears up vertically from the tranquil waters of the Adriatic, and Dubrovnik’s daunting fortresses town is a truly imposing sight to behold. Encircled by chunky stone walls so thick and dramatic they could have been purpose-built as a film set, this city’s unmatched old town is the setting for countless films and shows - from Star Wars to Robin Hood, Game of Thrones and every production in-between seeking a truly authentic medieval flavour. This fantasy fortress’s walls - which are no less than 12-metres thick at places - are certainly not just for show, however. They kept Dubrovnik safe when it was a maritime republic and they were besieged as recently as 1991, when Serbian and Montenegrin forces attacked, as Yugoslavia broke apart. Fully restored now, the stone streets of the city take you through a beautiful mosaic of architectural splendour, baroque churches and splashing fountains. Tapering alleys rocket up from the central boulevard of Stradun, offering spectacular views down, but you’ll need to walk the city walls to appreciate the fortress city’s full scale. Banking up sharply to the rear, you can gaze across an ocean of terracotta roofs and church spires, clamouring together before the sparkling Adriatic. Visit the neighbouring fort of Lovrijenac, for another perspective, or swing up to Srd fortress’s glorious panorama on a cable car. Dubrovnik’s streets are crammed with eateries and candlelit tables, where couples splash wine into glasses and enjoy gnocchi mixed with creamy truffle sauces. Nearby beaches like Banje are also close by, and hidden bays reward the intrepid who venture out beyond the old town. Take sunset drinks to sit back and watch as flotillas of sea kayaks roll by, or sail on the pristine waters to explore island gems like Lokrum - where peacocks are the only permanent residents. Dubrovnik port guide Search cruises visiting Dubrovnik

Day 24 Aug 7, 2027 Korcula 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore Croatia's fractured Adriatic coast is scattered with hundreds of islands - but few can match the elegant beauty of lovely Korčula. Tucked away behind bustling Hvar, Croatia’s sixth-largest island is a little harder to reach, making for a more peaceful affair. Decorated with beautiful medieval fortifications, time stands still as you stroll narrow paths, cutting between the stone facades of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Hear the stomps of feet and clacks of swords rattling off of the walls, during traditional Moreška performances - an enchanting, authentic sword dance. View less Revelin Tower looms over the grand entrance to the walled old town - nicknamed Little Dubrovnik - which was built and fortified in 1485 to protect Korčula. The island is also said to be the birthplace of Marco Polo, and his former house contains a narrow staircase leading to Marco Polo Tower, which peeks above the tight streets. The majestic Cathedral of St. Mark also rises high, and you'll spot the gorgeous vaulted bell tower, framed between narrow alleyways. Climb to the top for views of the red roof cluster, and sparkling Adriatic below. A beautiful island to explore, its dark blanket of pine tree forest led to the Greek's naming the island, Korkyra Melaina - or Black Corfu. Explore the gorgeous ring of coastline, which is lined with pebble beaches, sandy bays and hidden coves. Or, indulge in the island's tastes - like luxurious olive oils and white wines grown from grapes including posip, and grk - cultivated only on this island. Korcula port guide Search cruises visiting Korcula

Day 25 Aug 8, 2027 Kotor 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore Embedded into the slopes of the steep Lovćen mountain, and overlooking the deep blue Adriatic, the fortified town of Kotor boasts a spectacular, imposing staging that few can match. Squeezing in through the tight Bay of Kotor is a daunting and impressive approach in itself, as you arrive via the waterway of Europe’s most southerly fjord. A pearl of Montenegro and the Adriatic, Kotor's warren-like streets drip with history and authenticity. View less Under Venetian influence for four centuries, the city's UNESCO World Heritage Site old town invites you to wander amid atmospheric stone-clad streets, overlooked by a sea of terracotta roofs and the double towers of the cathedral. Protected by thick stone walls - and the mountains behind - Kotor draws comparisons with another fortified Adriatic wonder in Dubrovnik. Many favour Kotor for its compact layout, smaller crowds, and authenticity, however - having been spared from shelling during Yugoslavia's breakup. The tightknit streets here are patrolled by a slinking population of feline residents, who were adopted as the town’s mascots, after being left behind by transient trader ships. Learn of the city's extensive heritage on the waves, in the dedicated maritime museum that is contained within Grgurina Palace. Pick your way through tight alleys of workshops and studios, walking below fresh laundry strung from windows, before settling into shiny, paved piazzas for an afternoon coffee or seafood meal. If you’re up for an aerobic challenge, tackle the 1,350 steps up the steep walls to St John's fortress. The views over the gorgeous bay make the arduous slog worth it, as you rise past the city's eye-catching 15th-century church bell tower. Kotor port guide Search cruises visiting Kotor

Kotor photo — Day 25 Aug 8, 2027 Kotor 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore Embedded into the slopes of the steep Lovćen mountain, and overlooking the deep blue Adriatic, the fortified town of Kotor boasts a spectacular, imposing staging that few can match. Squeezing in through the tight Bay of Kotor is a daunting and impressive approach in itself, as you arrive via the waterway of Europe’s most southerly fjord. A pearl of Montenegro and the Adriatic, Kotor's warren-like streets drip with history and authenticity. View less Under Venetian influence for four centuries, the city's UNESCO World Heritage Site old town invites you to wander amid atmospheric stone-clad streets, overlooked by a sea of terracotta roofs and the double towers of the cathedral. Protected by thick stone walls - and the mountains behind - Kotor draws comparisons with another fortified Adriatic wonder in Dubrovnik. Many favour Kotor for its compact layout, smaller crowds, and authenticity, however - having been spared from shelling during Yugoslavia's breakup. The tightknit streets here are patrolled by a slinking population of feline residents, who were adopted as the town’s mascots, after being left behind by transient trader ships. Learn of the city's extensive heritage on the waves, in the dedicated maritime museum that is contained within Grgurina Palace. Pick your way through tight alleys of workshops and studios, walking below fresh laundry strung from windows, before settling into shiny, paved piazzas for an afternoon coffee or seafood meal. If you’re up for an aerobic challenge, tackle the 1,350 steps up the steep walls to St John's fortress. The views over the gorgeous bay make the arduous slog worth it, as you rise past the city's eye-catching 15th-century church bell tower. Kotor port guide Search cruises visiting Kotor

Day 27 Aug 10, 2027 Corfu 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore This sickle-shaped island of Mediterranean bliss flaunts its sun-kissed sophistication with effortless grace - having cherry-picked the best influences from Venetian, French and British occupiers. With over 3,000 years of history, The Grand Lady of the Ionian has played a starring role in Greek history and mythology, and legendary tales swirl around you, as you explore sparkling beaches, mountains splashed with wildflowers, and historical, perched fortresses. The soft hues of Corfu’s UNESCO World Heritage List Old Town brings together Corfu’s mesh of European influences, with its romantic stone floors and vine-clad cafes. Find somewhere to settle in for a morning coffee ritual like a true Corfiat, and sip at the laid-back pace of the locals - allowing the thick bitter concoction to settle before indulging. The oddly out-of-place sound of leather on willow can be heard in Spianada Square – the largest city square in the Balkan region - where a manicured cricket pitch spreads out incongruously below the Mediterranean sun. Take the hike up to the 13th-century Paleokastritsa Monastery, where you’ll be escorted by the resident goats, and have to step over cats contentedly rolling around your feet on arrival. This beautiful, daffodil-yellow building is splashed with a fresco of vivid purple fuchsias, and a crowning triad of bells. Inside, explore gold-framed frescoes, and watch as monks squeeze oil from the monastery’s trees’ bounty. Wander out among the groves to views of Corfu’s never-ending sea reaching out to the horison below you. Corfu’s sweeping sand beaches and hidden coves display the full spectrum of vivid Mediterranean seaside colours – which shift from turquoise greens to cobalt blues. The famous Canal d’Amour is a gorgeous inlet, and island legend says couples who swim together in this narrow channel of water stay together forever. Enjoy an afternoon sit-down and drink of ginger tea, or something a little stronger in the form of Corfu’s famous, radiant orange, kumquat liqueur. Corfu port guide Search cruises visiting Corfu

Corfu photo — Day 27 Aug 10, 2027 Corfu 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore This sickle-shaped island of Mediterranean bliss flaunts its sun-kissed sophistication with effortless grace - having cherry-picked the best influences from Venetian, French and British occupiers. With over 3,000 years of history, The Grand Lady of the Ionian has played a starring role in Greek history and mythology, and legendary tales swirl around you, as you explore sparkling beaches, mountains splashed with wildflowers, and historical, perched fortresses. The soft hues of Corfu’s UNESCO World Heritage List Old Town brings together Corfu’s mesh of European influences, with its romantic stone floors and vine-clad cafes. Find somewhere to settle in for a morning coffee ritual like a true Corfiat, and sip at the laid-back pace of the locals - allowing the thick bitter concoction to settle before indulging. The oddly out-of-place sound of leather on willow can be heard in Spianada Square – the largest city square in the Balkan region - where a manicured cricket pitch spreads out incongruously below the Mediterranean sun. Take the hike up to the 13th-century Paleokastritsa Monastery, where you’ll be escorted by the resident goats, and have to step over cats contentedly rolling around your feet on arrival. This beautiful, daffodil-yellow building is splashed with a fresco of vivid purple fuchsias, and a crowning triad of bells. Inside, explore gold-framed frescoes, and watch as monks squeeze oil from the monastery’s trees’ bounty. Wander out among the groves to views of Corfu’s never-ending sea reaching out to the horison below you. Corfu’s sweeping sand beaches and hidden coves display the full spectrum of vivid Mediterranean seaside colours – which shift from turquoise greens to cobalt blues. The famous Canal d’Amour is a gorgeous inlet, and island legend says couples who swim together in this narrow channel of water stay together forever. Enjoy an afternoon sit-down and drink of ginger tea, or something a little stronger in the form of Corfu’s famous, radiant orange, kumquat liqueur. Corfu port guide Search cruises visiting Corfu

Day 30 Aug 13, 2027 Gythion 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore One of the most beautiful parts of this region of the Peloponnese is the plain of Laconia which extends from Sparta to the port of Gythion. The many neo-classical houses of this harbor town are built on the slopes of Mount Kourmaros. Aside from its remaining ancient theater and cultural museum, visitors can enjoy local beaches and a variety of dining opportunities. The inhabitants of Gythion claim Hercules and Apollo as its founders. According to mythology, Paris and Helen of Troy were reputed to have spent their first night together on nearby ancient Kranae, now called Marathonissi. Enlarging the natural harbor, it was used by the Spartans as their naval base and the main port of trade. Today Gythion is visited mostly for its scenic beauty and access to numerous historical sites. These include the cliffside city of Mistra, one of the finest surviving examples of Byzantine architecture in Greece, and ancient Sparta.

Day 31 Aug 14, 2027 Athens (Piraeus), Greece 07:00 – 22:00 15.0 hrs ashore A city of legend, civilisation and enduring culture, Athens is a majestic and magical urban sprawl. Extraordinary elegance and grace combine with grit and graft in Greece's capital, where highways encase ruins from antiquity, and gleaming museums and galleries stand beside concrete sprayed with edgy street art. 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' urban area. 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 windows. 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 - try traditional souvlaki made with sauces handed from generation to generation. Athens (Piraeus), Greece port guide Search cruises visiting Athens (Piraeus), Greece

Day 32 Aug 15, 2027 Monemvasia 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore A town of rustic, lyrically romantic beauty, Monemvasia boasts a glorious natural setting - perched on a colossal rock island, which rears spectacularly from the waves. A truly unique castle city, the island is linked to the mainland by just a single solitary causeway. It is hard to imagine a better – and more impenetrable - setting for a fortress town than this, and the rock is laced with tight cobbled streets, exposed stone masonry and pretty Byzantine churches. View less Known as the Gibraltar of Greece, you would be forgiven for assuming that the limestone monolith was unoccupied as you approach from the seas. Look a little closer, however, and you’ll begin to pick out the ancient walls and terracotta roofs of the quaint town clinging to its steep, dramatic slopes - and the walls of the fortress crowning it. A natural stronghold of overwhelming romantic beauty – the rock is said to lend couples wedded here extra strong 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, 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 religious iconography. A historic paved pathway twists back on itself, rising sharply up the slope on a daunting ascent to the now uninhabited upper fortress. The views from here are even more incredible, as you look down across the rustic domes of the lower village’s churches and stone-paved streets below. Monemvasia port guide Search cruises visiting Monemvasia

Monemvasia photo — Day 32 Aug 15, 2027 Monemvasia 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore A town of rustic, lyrically romantic beauty, Monemvasia boasts a glorious natural setting - perched on a colossal rock island, which rears spectacularly from the waves. A truly unique castle city, the island is linked to the mainland by just a single solitary causeway. It is hard to imagine a better – and more impenetrable - setting for a fortress town than this, and the rock is laced with tight cobbled streets, exposed stone masonry and pretty Byzantine churches. View less Known as the Gibraltar of Greece, you would be forgiven for assuming that the limestone monolith was unoccupied as you approach from the seas. Look a little closer, however, and you’ll begin to pick out the ancient walls and terracotta roofs of the quaint town clinging to its steep, dramatic slopes - and the walls of the fortress crowning it. A natural stronghold of overwhelming romantic beauty – the rock is said to lend couples wedded here extra strong 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, 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 religious iconography. A historic paved pathway twists back on itself, rising sharply up the slope on a daunting ascent to the now uninhabited upper fortress. The views from here are even more incredible, as you look down across the rustic domes of the lower village’s churches and stone-paved streets below. Monemvasia port guide Search cruises visiting Monemvasia

Day 33 Aug 16, 2027 Agios Nikolaos, Greece 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore Set on the east of the Greek island Crete, Aghios Nikolaos is a place of legend and luxury. Pastel-coloured houses jostle attractively around the pretty harbour and inky lake, while busy restaurants and cafes spill out onto its lively waterfront. Life here orbits around Lake Voulismeni, and the legendary lake is said to be bottomless, and to have been a bathing spot for Greek goddesses Athena and Artemis. Enjoy heavenly views of the water through frames of pretty, violet flowers, or climb the stone steps for a sweeping panorama of the town, lake and seas beyond. With abundant waterfront, hours meander past effortlessly in the town’s humming cafes, as characters come and go, and sunlight flicks off the sparkling waves. Aghios Nikolaos is surrounded by wide, scenic beaches, and you can choose between Voulisma - where crystal-clear water lolls against fine sand, or Almyros – where a refreshing ribbon of cooling freshwater snakes out into warm turquoise seawater. Away from the beaches, look for the brightly-frescoed Panagias Keras Church - one of the region’s oldest Byzantine churches - which dates back to the 13th century. Explore local farms to taste fresh oil, crushed from plump olives, ripened by the generous Cretan sun. Agios Nikolaos, Greece port guide Search cruises visiting Agios Nikolaos, Greece

Agios Nikolaos, Greece photo — Day 33 Aug 16, 2027 Agios Nikolaos, Greece 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore Set on the east of the Greek island Crete, Aghios Nikolaos is a place of legend and luxury. Pastel-coloured houses jostle attractively around the pretty harbour and inky lake, while busy restaurants and cafes spill out onto its lively waterfront. Life here orbits around Lake Voulismeni, and the legendary lake is said to be bottomless, and to have been a bathing spot for Greek goddesses Athena and Artemis. Enjoy heavenly views of the water through frames of pretty, violet flowers, or climb the stone steps for a sweeping panorama of the town, lake and seas beyond. With abundant waterfront, hours meander past effortlessly in the town’s humming cafes, as characters come and go, and sunlight flicks off the sparkling waves. Aghios Nikolaos is surrounded by wide, scenic beaches, and you can choose between Voulisma - where crystal-clear water lolls against fine sand, or Almyros – where a refreshing ribbon of cooling freshwater snakes out into warm turquoise seawater. Away from the beaches, look for the brightly-frescoed Panagias Keras Church - one of the region’s oldest Byzantine churches - which dates back to the 13th century. Explore local farms to taste fresh oil, crushed from plump olives, ripened by the generous Cretan sun. Agios Nikolaos, Greece port guide Search cruises visiting Agios Nikolaos, Greece

Day 34 Aug 17, 2027 Mykonos 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore Think of a trip to Greece and you will imagine Mykonos. The port of Mykonos, or perhaps it would be more correct to say of Chora, is located on the west coast of the island. The Cyclades islands in the Aegean are wonderful and the beaches are no less marvellous, with the pleasant distinction of being among the most festive in the archipelago. After docking at the port of Mykonos, enjoy the numerous natural coves, beaches and cliffs of this beautiful island. You can enjoy the clean, azure sea of Paradise Beach, while in the evening let yourself be carried away by the rhythm of this cosmopolitan and youthful island. The harbour district, the Kastro, is known as the 'little Venice'. In its alleys, the shops and restaurants alternate with white houses with blue doors and windows. On a trip to Mykonos, take advantage of the stop to go on shore excursions, stroll through the maze of streets and alleys where you can discover the beauty of the architecture and the design of the city. The small white houses with shutters as blue as the sky, the pigeon houses and the numerous small churches of Mykonos will simply enchant you. Mykonos port guide Search cruises visiting Mykonos

Mykonos photo — Day 34 Aug 17, 2027 Mykonos 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore Think of a trip to Greece and you will imagine Mykonos. The port of Mykonos, or perhaps it would be more correct to say of Chora, is located on the west coast of the island. The Cyclades islands in the Aegean are wonderful and the beaches are no less marvellous, with the pleasant distinction of being among the most festive in the archipelago. After docking at the port of Mykonos, enjoy the numerous natural coves, beaches and cliffs of this beautiful island. You can enjoy the clean, azure sea of Paradise Beach, while in the evening let yourself be carried away by the rhythm of this cosmopolitan and youthful island. The harbour district, the Kastro, is known as the 'little Venice'. In its alleys, the shops and restaurants alternate with white houses with blue doors and windows. On a trip to Mykonos, take advantage of the stop to go on shore excursions, stroll through the maze of streets and alleys where you can discover the beauty of the architecture and the design of the city. The small white houses with shutters as blue as the sky, the pigeon houses and the numerous small churches of Mykonos will simply enchant you. Mykonos port guide Search cruises visiting Mykonos

Day 35 Aug 18, 2027 Kusadasi 08:00 – 23:00 15.0 hrs ashore Kusadasi in Turkey is the gateway to one of the most legendary cities of the ancient world: Ephesus. St. Paul preached in its Great Theater, while the facade of the Celsus Library survives as a testament to the city’s role as a center of learning and culture. Not far from Ephesus, the Temple of Artemis (also known as the Temple of Diana), one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world, once stood, drawing pilgrims from around the Mediterranean. While it no longer stands, it is possible to walk amongst its foundations and the remains of its towering columns. Other historic sites can also be found nearby: The House of Mary is believed to be the home of Jesus’s mother at the end of her life, and the Basilica of St. John, constructed in the 6th century, marks the location of his tomb. (Like Mary, he spent his final years in Ephesus.) Nearby, the Selcuk fortress reflects the period of Byzantine and Ottoman control of the region. From ancient wonders to holy sites, there are few ports in the Mediterranean as magical as Kusadasi, and a day here is a day spent in the company of some of antiquity's greatest figures. Kusadasi port guide Search cruises visiting Kusadasi

Kusadasi photo — Day 35 Aug 18, 2027 Kusadasi 08:00 – 23:00 15.0 hrs ashore Kusadasi in Turkey is the gateway to one of the most legendary cities of the ancient world: Ephesus. St. Paul preached in its Great Theater, while the facade of the Celsus Library survives as a testament to the city’s role as a center of learning and culture. Not far from Ephesus, the Temple of Artemis (also known as the Temple of Diana), one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world, once stood, drawing pilgrims from around the Mediterranean. While it no longer stands, it is possible to walk amongst its foundations and the remains of its towering columns. Other historic sites can also be found nearby: The House of Mary is believed to be the home of Jesus’s mother at the end of her life, and the Basilica of St. John, constructed in the 6th century, marks the location of his tomb. (Like Mary, he spent his final years in Ephesus.) Nearby, the Selcuk fortress reflects the period of Byzantine and Ottoman control of the region. From ancient wonders to holy sites, there are few ports in the Mediterranean as magical as Kusadasi, and a day here is a day spent in the company of some of antiquity's greatest figures. Kusadasi port guide Search cruises visiting Kusadasi

Day 36 Aug 19, 2027 Cesme 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore Çeşme (Turkish pronunciation: [ˈtʃeʃme]) is a coastal town and the administrative centre of the district of the same name in Turkey's westernmost end, on a promontory on the tip of the peninsula that also carries the same name and that extends inland to form a whole with the wider Karaburun Peninsula. It is a popular holiday resort and the district center, where two thirds of the district population is concentrated. Çeşme is located 85 km west of İzmir, the largest metropolitan center in Turkey's Aegean Region. There is a six-lane highway connecting the two cities (Otoyol 32). Çeşme district has two neighboring districts, Karaburun to the north and Urla to the east, both of which are also part of İzmir Province. The name "Çeşme" means "fountain" and possibly draws reference from the many Ottoman fountains that are scattered across the city. Cesme port guide Search cruises visiting Cesme

Day 38 Aug 21, 2027 Istanbul Arrives 07:00 A shore excursion on your MSC Mediterranean cruise can be the opportunity to discover İstanbul which stands astride two continents, Europe and Asia. As if its spectacular geographical location were not enough, it can also boast of being the only city to have played capital to consecutive Christian and Islamic empires, a role that has shaped the region’s history for more than 2500 years and bequeathed to İstanbul a staggering wealth of attractions. Most cruise visitors spend all their holiday time in Sultanahmet, home to İstanbul’s main sightseeing attractions: the church of Aya Sofya, the greatest legacy of the Byzantine Empire; the Topkapı Palace, heart of the Ottoman Empire; and the massive Sultanahmet Camii (Blue Mosque). Here also are the ancient Hippodrome, the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art (housed in the former Palace of İbrahim Paşa), the eerily lit Yerebatan Sarnıcı, a fascinating Byzantine underground cistern, and the Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı), the largest covered bazaar in the world. The monumental architecture, attractive parks and gardens, street-side cafés, and the benefits of a relatively traffic-free main road combine to make this area pleasant for both sightseeing and staying on an MSC Mediterranean cruise excursion. İstanbul’s Ottoman-era Grand Bazaar gets more than its fair share of souvenir-hungry visitors. The area around it, however, is relatively little explored, which is a shame as it holds some very worthwhile attractions, from the historic Cembirlitaş Hamamı, one of the best Turkish baths in the country, to the city’s very best mosque, the hilltop Süleymaniye Camii. The best single reason to head across to the Asian shore of the city is to experience a Bosphorus cruise. The views from the Bosphorus are superb, with domes and minarets dominating the skyline of the Old City, and skyscrapers the business districts beyond Beyoğlu. Istanbul port guide Search cruises visiting Istanbul

Istanbul photo — Day 38 Aug 21, 2027 Istanbul Arrives 07:00 A shore excursion on your MSC Mediterranean cruise can be the opportunity to discover İstanbul which stands astride two continents, Europe and Asia. As if its spectacular geographical location were not enough, it can also boast of being the only city to have played capital to consecutive Christian and Islamic empires, a role that has shaped the region’s history for more than 2500 years and bequeathed to İstanbul a staggering wealth of attractions. Most cruise visitors spend all their holiday time in Sultanahmet, home to İstanbul’s main sightseeing attractions: the church of Aya Sofya, the greatest legacy of the Byzantine Empire; the Topkapı Palace, heart of the Ottoman Empire; and the massive Sultanahmet Camii (Blue Mosque). Here also are the ancient Hippodrome, the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art (housed in the former Palace of İbrahim Paşa), the eerily lit Yerebatan Sarnıcı, a fascinating Byzantine underground cistern, and the Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı), the largest covered bazaar in the world. The monumental architecture, attractive parks and gardens, street-side cafés, and the benefits of a relatively traffic-free main road combine to make this area pleasant for both sightseeing and staying on an MSC Mediterranean cruise excursion. İstanbul’s Ottoman-era Grand Bazaar gets more than its fair share of souvenir-hungry visitors. The area around it, however, is relatively little explored, which is a shame as it holds some very worthwhile attractions, from the historic Cembirlitaş Hamamı, one of the best Turkish baths in the country, to the city’s very best mosque, the hilltop Süleymaniye Camii. The best single reason to head across to the Asian shore of the city is to experience a Bosphorus cruise. The views from the Bosphorus are superb, with domes and minarets dominating the skyline of the Old City, and skyscrapers the business districts beyond Beyoğlu. Istanbul port guide Search cruises visiting Istanbul

Pricing

Lowest fare we've tracked over the observed 85-day span: $30,591 · range $30,591–$37,861

Current prices

Per person · 2 guests · incl. taxes & fees

Inside

Not available

Oceanview

Not available

Balcony

from $30,591

$826 / night

Fare rows

Veranda Suite

Cabin grade

Available

from $30,591

$826 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Veranda Suite

Cabin grade

Available

from $32,567

$880 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Veranda Suite

Cabin grade

Available

from $35,533

$960 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Veranda Suite

Cabin grade

Available

from $37,510

$1,013 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Suite

Not available

Prices verified Jun 20, 2026

Prices come from third-party data feeds via Seabourn and may differ from the cruise line's current fare. Confirm the final price before booking. How our pricing works

Price history

14 days

○ = last available date (sold out, or no longer listed).

Cabin grades

Balcony

Lowest Balcony $30,591 V1 Veranda Suite $30,591 V2 Veranda Suite $32,567 V3 Veranda Suite $35,533 V4 Veranda Suite $37,510

Lines step between recorded price changes. Plot up to 6 lines at once.

Show all 14 cabin grades

Name	Supplier code	Type
Veranda Suite	OB	Balcony
Veranda Suite Guarantee	RB	Balcony
Veranda Suite	V1	Balcony
Veranda Suite	V2	Balcony
Veranda Suite	V3	Balcony
Veranda Suite	V4	Balcony
Grand Signature Suite	GRSS	Suite
Grand Wintergarden Suite	GRWG	Suite
Owners Suite	O1	Suite
Owners Suite	O2	Suite
Penthouse Suite	PH	Suite
Spa Penthouse Suite	PS	Suite
Signature Suite	SS	Suite
Wintergarden Suite	WG	Suite

Ship

Your ship Seabourn Ovation 6★ **40,350** GT **600** guests Built **2017** Introducing Seabourn Ovation, the sister-ship to the already prestigious Seabourn Encore. Seabourn Ovation represents another welcome stage in the evolution of small ship cruising, which Seabourn pioneered and has consistently expanded and enriched for all of our small ship cruises. Both ships will deliver a wealth of new concepts, a fresh vision and a host of illuminating ideas to delight the world's most discerning travelers. Seabourn Ovation ship guide Search cruises on Seabourn Ovation

Similar cruises

Compare similar cruises

Mediterranean’s Iconic Shores from Istanbul

Viking Vesta · Mediterranean · 28 nights

from $15,996

$571 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Jun 23, 2026

Adriatic and Western Mediterranean

Queen Victoria · Western Mediterranean · 21 nights

Call for price

per person · incl. taxes

Jul 6, 2026

Mediterranean & Adriatic Sojourn from Barcelona

Viking Venus · Mediterranean · 21 nights

Call for price

per person · incl. taxes

Jun 28, 2026

Greece, Adriatic and Western Mediterranean

Queen Victoria · Western Mediterranean · 21 nights

Call for price

per person · incl. taxes

Jun 29, 2026

Venice to Monte Carlo

Nautica · Europe · 17 nights

from $7,049

$414 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Jun 25, 2026

Byzantine, Barcelona & Belem Istanbul to Lisbon

Seven Seas Voyager · Mediterranean · 22 nights

from $20,899

$949 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Jun 28, 2026

Browse all cruises in search →

from $30,591 pp

via CruiseDirect

Book

Book direct with Seabourn we may earn a commission