Sicily

Arrive in Valletta and transfer to our 1920s-style hotel, set on seven acres of pristine gardens. Spend the afternoon at leisure enjoying the amenities, including the luxurious infinity pool that overlooks Valetta’s harbor.

Embark on a guided walking tour of Valletta, Malta’s capital and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Discover the city’s grandeur, including Renzo Piano’s modern architecture, panoramic views from the Upper Barrakka Gardens, and the baroque magnificence of St. John’s Co-Cathedral. After lunch in a historic palazzo and time at leisure, enjoy an evening motorcoach ride to Mdina, Malta’s original capital. Our evening ends with a festive rooftop dinner overlooking the enchanting walled streets.

Today we explore two UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, an underground Neolithic necropolis predating the Pyramids, and the Tarxien Temples, a megalithic site nearly as ancient. Visit the National Museum of Archaeology to view artifacts from Malta’s prehistoric era, spanning 5200 BCE to 2500 BCE. After lunch at a local restaurant, board the Sea Cloud Spirit and settle into our cabins. Watch from the deck as our ship sails out of the fortified city of Valletta, one of Europe’s most stunning harbors.

Enjoy a full day sailing the Mediterranean. Tour the Sea Cloud Spirit, take advantage of the ship’s amenities, and explore the area on a tender ride. This evening, join the captain’s welcome reception to kick off our voyage.

Begin our exploration of Sicily with a visit to the well-preserved Greek Doric temple of Segesta, believed to have been designed by an Athenian architect. Continue to the medieval hilltop town of Erice, where a formidable Norman castle overlooks the ruins of a Venusian temple, and charming churches adorn the cobbled streets. Later, enjoy an afternoon at sea with ongoing lectures and a sailing opportunity, weather permitting.

Begin the day exploring Palermo, Sicily’s capital, starting with the Royal Palace of Palermo and its dazzling Cappella Palatina. Continue to Monreale to admire its magnificent 12th-century cathedral, recognized as one of the world’s greatest surviving examples of Norman architecture. After lunch in atmospheric Old Town Palermo, spend the afternoon exploring its vibrant streets with an optional visit to the Abatellis Art Museum. Return to the ship for dinner and an evening at sea.

Sail to the small volcanic islet of Lipari, whose cultural history stretches back 7,000 years. Join a guided walking tour of the town center, including a visit to the Aeolian Archaeological Museum. Afterward, enjoy free time or explore the island further by e-bike before returning to the ship for lunch.

This morning, explore the historic resort town of Taormina and stroll along the pedestrian-only Corso Umberto, visit its lively market, and spend time exploring the ancient Greek theater with its stunning views of Mt. Etna. After some independent exploration of Taormina, return to the ship and set sail for Syracuse.

Founded around 734 BCE by Greek Corinthians, Syracuse boasts a rich history shaped by Romans, Saracens, Byzantines, Normans, and Ottomans, earning it UNESCO World Heritage status. Tour the extensive archaeological park, featuring the Greek theater and Roman amphitheater, and explore the fortified island of Ortigia. Visit a private palazzo for a display of ancient etchings before returning to the Sea Cloud Spirit for lunch. Toast our journey this evening at the captain’s farewell reception and dinner.

Gather on deck this morning as the Sea Cloud Spirit returns to Valletta’s spectacular Grand Harbor. After breakfast, head to the airport for return flights home.