Naples and Sicily

Arrive in Naples and transfer to our hotel overlooking the Bay of Naples.

This morning, we attend a hands-on class, where we learn the secrets of authentic Neapolitan pizza. After enjoying our creations, continue to the ancient city of Herculaneum. Destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE, the ruins were later uncovered during the mid-18th century. Return to Naples for a festive welcome dinner looking out over the Bay of Naples.

Check out of the hotel and visit the world-renowned National Archaeological Museum, home to one of the most important collections of Greco-Roman antiquities in the world. Next, embark on a guided walk through the historic city center, rich with baroque churches, piazzas, and cafés. Pause for lunch before transferring to the dock to board the Sea Cloud II and set sail.

Experience a full day at sea with time for sailing in the southern Mediterranean. Sit back and observe deckhands as they scale masts reaching 180 feet high to set sail on one of the finest hand-sailed square-riggers of our age. Attend the captain’s welcome reception this evening.

Begin our exploration of Sicily with a visit to the well-preserved Greek Doric temple of Segesta, thought to have been designed by an Athenian architect. Afterward, ascend to the medieval hilltop town of Erice, where an impressive Norman castle sits atop the ruins of a Venusian temple and tiny treasure-filled churches dot cobbled alleyways. Return to the ship for an afternoon at sea and more sailing, weather permitting.

Begin with an exploration of Sicily’s capital, Palermo, featuring the Royal Palace with its dazzling Cappella Palatina and ending with lunch in the Old Town. Continue to Monreale to see its magnificent 12th-century cathedral, a masterpiece of Norman architecture. Return to Palermo for a private tour and concert at the Massimo Opera House before reboarding our ship.

Cruise to the volcanic islet of Lipari in the Aeolian Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with 7,000 years of history. Enjoy a guided tour of the town center and the Aeolian Archaeological Museum, then enjoy free time or opt to explore the island by e-bike. Return to the ship for lunch and afternoon sailing. At sunset, gather on deck to watch Stromboli’s fiery volcanic display.

This morning, explore the old-world resort town of Taormina, home to a charming market, buzzing shops, and cafés on the fashionable pedestrian-only Corso Umberto. Take in the stunning views to Mt Etna from the ancient Greek theater that has hosted performances for more than two thousand years. Return to the ship after some independent exploration of Taormina and set sail for Syracuse.

Founded in 734 BCE by Greek Corinthians, Syracuse reflects centuries of Roman, Byzantine, Norman, and Ottoman influence. Tour the vast archaeological park with its Greek theater and Roman amphitheater. Continue to Ortygia Island to the Piazza del Duomo’s monumental cathedral and wander the charming alleyways. Cap off our visit with a private reception in a Baroque palazzo, where we are welcomed by the owner. Back on board the ship, enjoy the Captain’s farewell reception and dinner as we make our way to Malta.

Gather on deck this morning, as we arrive in Valletta’s spectacular Grand Harbor. Following breakfast, disembark and transfer to the airport for flights home.