DESTINATIONS

NAPLES, ITALY

We joined and left the ship in Naples - Italy’s most red-blooded city and one of the oldest continuously-inhabited cities in the world and, for those already on the ship or staying for a longer cruise, it’s from here you can visit the time-frozen cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum, whose citizens were stopped in their tracks by the famous Mount Vesuvius eruptions of 79 AD.

TOULON, FRANCE

Fusing French Riviera glam with the feel of a traditional old town, Toulon is a gorgeous gateway to the Côte d’Azur, where you can follow the sound of popping corks and clinking champagne flutes to über-stylish St-Tropez, or venture into Aix en Provence and find out about its dual identity. This place is known as the Town of Water thanks to its fountains and the Town of Art because of its many museums.

TARRAGONA, SPAIN

Once a Roman capital of Spain, beautiful Tarragona is brimming with historic landmarks and monuments. In the old quarter, with its magnificent Gothic cathedral, we were especially pleased with how reasonable prices were in cafes, shops and restaurants - well worth a trip off the ship with buses laid on by the local tourist board.

LIVORNO, ITALY

Back to Italy and the port of Livorno, where we were able to embark on our eagerlyanticipated trip to Pisa. We were not to be disappointed as we entered through the walled gateway and the vista of the leaning wonder suddenly came into view. Unforgettable. Cue many, many photos.

CIVITAVECCHIA, ITALY

Our next stop, and from where we joined the ship’s Express to Rome excursion. In less than an hour by train, we were in the capital on a breathtaking tour which included the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps and St Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican, with some fantastic pasta dishes and wine thrown into the mix.

OLBIA, SARDINIA

This was an altogether more laid back experience following our excursion exertion the previous day, and a place where you can simply spread out a towel and relax on the beach. Or, if you’re an active traveller, there are plenty of ways to explore this tranquil spot. Bike rides take in charm-filled villages, while boat trips allow you to experience the French island of Corsica and the peaceful La Maddalena archipelago. Beautiful, tranquil Sardinia.