An Historical Cruise of the Mediterranean

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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