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The Mediterranean is home to some of the world’s
most amazing civilisations and extraordinary history. Now, a new
cruise programme – Voyages to Antiquity – will combine history and
holidays in a range of extraordinary and affordable itineraries
throughout the “old Mediterranean”.
Commencing in May, the history-themed programme
features 16 cruises aboard the fully-refurbished, four star Aegean
Odyssey, which has been converted from a 600-passenger ship to a
spacious, special purpose vessel accommodating no more than 380
guests.
Each of the 15-day journeys in the Voyages
to Antiquity programme is centred on the rich history of classical
Mediterranean civilisations, and an appreciation of their art and
architecture, with expert guides helping passengers to understand
and explore the distant past in destinations including Greece,
Italy, Turkey, Sicily, Croatia, Malta, Tunisia and Egypt.
Voyages to Antiquity also includes in its
fares a comprehensive shore excursion programme , wine with every
dinner, expert commentary, gratuities and port charges – features
which often attract extra charges on other cruises.
“The small ship concept has already been proved
in markets including Alaska, Antarctica and Scandinavia,” said
Craig Bowen, Managing Director of specialist wholesaler Cruise Traveller, which
will represent Voyages to Antiquity in the Australian market. “The Voyages to Antiquity product takes the small ship
segment another step, with fully themed journeys.
“The strength of this programme is its
itineraries, its themes and its inclusions. This is a five star
product on a four star ship at three star prices. It opens up
quality cruising for the mid price market. It is cruising tailored
for the current economy.”
The Aegean Odyssey cruise programme is priced
from just $3,695 per person, twin share, for the Cairo to Amman
journey in November. Air fares are extra, depending upon the
airline selected.
Tours are designated not by names, but by
statements which reflect their content – names including “Sicily
is the key to everything”, “Pompeii is something so wonderful”,
“Venice – my dream became my address”, “Carthage is to be deleted”
and “Time fears The Pyramids”.
In addition to the core 15 day cruises, there
are also five Grand Voyages, each lasting 29 days and combining
two smaller itineraries. Features of the Aegean Odyssey include
two restaurants and an outdoor terrace dining area, three lounges,
four bars, a lecture theatre and cinema, a library, a shop, an
internet centre, a medical centre, and outdoor pool and jacuzzi
and a beauty salon. There are 14 cabin categories to choose from.
“This is a new and very different cruise
experience. It is for people with a real interest not just in the
trip, but in the journey back in time,” added Mr Bowen. “It’s not
really a cruise for those who just want to lie around the pool and
sip cocktails – though we certainly do offer that option!”
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