MS Europa Departures by Date

MS Europa Departures

Grace - Gems of the Mediterranean - Nice to Venice 
MS Europa - September 30 - October 14, 2012

An idyllic fishing village which is nowadays home to the jet set, masterpieces collected by the Medici family and the sacred glory of St. Peter's Basilica - Italy augurs wonderful experiences. In Montenegro, the Bay of Kotor cuts deep into the landscape, and in Croatia, the EUROPA will be lying off the coast of historic Dubrovnik for the night. On board, you will inevitably enjoy the Venetian masquerade ball - and the city of lagoons itself will become a dream destination in the south, too.

Highlights of this Cruise
• UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Sites: the Cinque Terre*, the
  historic centres of Florence and Rome*, ancient Pompeii*, the city
  of Valletta*, the Bay of Kotor*, the historic district of Dubrovnik*,
  Venice and its lagoons*
• UNESCO World Natural Heritage Sites: the Gulf of Girolata and the
  Bay of Kotor
• Italian bel canto on board
• Venetian masquerade ball on board

* These arrangements are not included in the cruise price.
   Subject to changes.

Nice/France
From the sophisticated Côte d'Azur to the Italian boot - the beginning of unforgettable days in the Mediterranean Sea.

Portofino/Italy
Colourful fishermen's houses, elegant shops and an illustrious clientele - welcome to exclusive Portofino, one of the most beautiful settlements on the Ligurian coast. Stroll along the waterside promenade, go shopping or walk up to the Castello and enjoy the view. In the afternoon, the EUROPA will be cruising past the breathtaking Cinque Terre with you.

Livorno (Florence)/Italy
Michelangelo, Machiavelli, Dante Alighieri - they all created magnificent works of art in Florence*. The cradle of the Renaissance is home to a great wealth of artistic and cultural treasures which, like the church Santa Croce, form part of the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage. A masterpiece in itself: the art collection of the Medici at the Uffizi Gallery. In the village of Bolgheri, you will be captivated by the beauty of Tuscany*. And what would a stay in this region be without a visit to a winery?

Calvi/Corsica/France
The mighty citadel towers above the port, yachts are bobbing on the water, and the long beach is ideal for a leisurely walk - discover Calvi or accompany us up to the Corsican mountain villages* and savour some "spuntino" - little local specialities - at an auberge.

Civitavecchia (Rome)/Italy
The "eternal city" spreads out on the seven hills of Rome*. "A carousel of memories, real occurrences and dreams" is how Fellini described the city, the highlights of which include the Colosseum, the Forum Romanum and St. Peter's Basilica - the heart of Vatican city and one of the largest churches in the world. The popes of the 13th century resided in mediaeval Viterbo*. And Tuscania*, the old Etruscan town, will also captivate you with the charm of bygone days.

Sorrent/Italy
At the steep cliffs of Sorrent, you will admire the views across the Gulf of Naples and nearby Capri. The hinterland* will thrill you with the sight of olive and citrus trees. In the year 79 A.D., mighty Mount Vesuvius destroyed the Roman town of Pompeii* - today one of the most famous excavation sites in the world. Late in the evening, you will be fascinated by another volcano as the EUROPA circumnavigates Stromboli with its mountain of fire which is active to the present day.

Valletta/Malta
In the 16th century, the Knights of St. John founded defensive Valletta* and left behind a masterful architectural heritage of churches, prestigious buildings and the imposing Grandmaster's Palace. The knights of the order had previously opted for the "silent city of Mdina* as their place of residence. In Mosta*, you will be amazed at one of the largest church domes in the world. A visit to Malta's tranquil neighbouring island Gozo* takes you way back to the Bronze Age - marvel at the Ggantija temple.

Kotor/Montenegro
The breathtaking fjord cuts deep into the mountains, and the historic buildings of Kotor* tell of 2,000 years of eventful history. In the course of a boat tour across the Bay of Kotor*, you will visit the chapel on the tiny island of Gospa od Skrpjela (Our Lady of the Rocks) - once a pilgrimage site for the seafarers who were based in Perast.

Dubrovnik/Croatia
The EUROPA will be lying off the coast of the "Pearl of the Adriatic" for one night. The following day, you have plenty of time to discover Dubrovnik's* historic heritage such as the Franziscan Monastery or the Rectors Palace. A jeep will take you to the fertile Konavle landscape*, which is commonly referred to as "Dalmatia's Tuscany". Here, you will savour some treats typical of the region in a restored oil mill.

Korcula/Croatia
Off the coast of southern Dalmatia lies the green island, the port town of the same name of which is famous for its enchanting historic district. Outdoor stairs lead you to the alleys of Korcula* and to the cathedral overlooking the main square of the town. On the island tour* you will enjoy the sight of the beautiful landscape, stroll through the fishing village Vela Luka and taste some wines typical of the island at a tavern.

Hvar/Croatia
On this lovely island you have the opportunity to stroll through the pretty town of Hvar, taste the local wines and enjoy the village charm of Jelsa. Fabulous facets of Croatia.

Venice/Italy
The EUROPA reaches the gorgeous city of lagoons, and you will encounter the less well-known parts of Venice* on the occasion of a walk through the Cannaregio district. Subsequently, a motorboat takes you to the lagoon islands* Murano, centre of the glassmaking industry, Burano and Torcello. Following one last overnight stay on board, it will be time to embark on your return journey.

5% early booking discount if booked before March 4, 2012! ²