Includes return flights from the UK*. Indulge in a 14-night Mediterranean cruise aboard the MS Caledonian Sky. Sail along the coastlines of Italy, Croatia, Greece and more immersing yourself in cultural gems and historical old towns. Highlights include a visit to Krka National Park and the ancient city of Ephesus.

Itinerary

---

Day 1: Arrive Venice, Embark Ship

Fly from the UK and arrive in Venice, transfer to your ship. This evening, get to know your Cruise Director and fellow travellers at a Welcome Reception.

Day 2: Šibenik, Krka National Park

Today, your ship will dock in the town of Šibenik, where you’ll disembark for a special experience. This evening, join your fellow travellers for a Gala Welcome Dinner.

Insider Experience – Krka National Park

Head to beautiful Krka National Park to explore its dramatic waterfalls. The most famous is Skradinski Buk, a vast natural pool framed by towering waterfalls on one side and a series of cascades on the other, where the river surges through a maze of tiny islets. Take a walk along wooden jetties and bridges to admire the falls, and immerse yourself in the park’s rich flora and fauna.

Day 3: Korčula, Mljet

Arrive in Korčula, the birthplace of Marco Polo, and enjoy some time at leisure to explore its charming streets or perhaps join an optional tour. Later, set sail for the tranquil island of Mljet.

Enhance Your Journey — Historic Korčula and Wine Tasting

Begin your walking tour of Korčula’s spectacular Old Town from the pier, where you’ll discover its stunning architecture and masterfully planned layout. The town’s streets were designed to harness the natural wind patterns, ensuring optimal airflow throughout. Visit the Cathedral of St. Mark, an exquisite example of local stone craftsmanship, and the believed birthplace of Marco Polo. Then, journey to the rural village of Lumbarda for a visit to a family-run winery. Learn how the family’s small-scale wine production has grown over the years, incorporating modern innovations alongside traditional methods. Take the opportunity to sample their wines and hear the stories behind the vintages.

Enhance Your Journey — Korčula in Depth

Traverse the island of Korčula, soaking in breathtaking views of its dense forests. This tour takes you to the Zlokic Olive Oil Production, a family-run establishment since 1995, and one of the island’s foremost producers of olive oil. Explore the ancient tools used in the olive oil-making process, including a 15th-century wooden olive press and an 18th-century hydraulic compression system. Next, visit the Toreta Winery in Smokvica for a wine tasting. Discover this boutique family-run winery, where you’ll learn about the native grape varieties that contribute to their distinctive wines.

Enhance Your Journey — Mljet National Park by E-bike

On this active excursion, you’ll learn about the history of Mljet Naitonal Park, before commencing your cycling adventure by E-bike. Cycle along shores of the lakes, visit St. Mary Island and discover flora and fauna of the national park.

Note: this excursion is graded strenuous and involves approximately nine km of cycling on flat roads. It’s suitable for people who exercise regularly and have above average level of fitness.

Enhance Your Journey — Mljet National Park by E-Tuk Tuk

As one of the most beautiful islands on the entire Croatian coast, Mljet is filled with unspoiled nature, rich history and stunning buildings. Designed as a combination of walking and travel by E-tuk tuk, this excursion will show you the highlights of the National Park including St. Mary’s Island. Enjoy a ride on the lake on an electric boat and visit the hidden residence of formers presidents and the Benedictine monastery.

Note: each tuk tuk carries a maximum of four people, with three tuk tuks available in total . Prices are based on each tuk tuk being full.

Day 4: Dubrovnik

This morning your ship will arrive in Dubrovnik. Learn about the city’s walls on an informative guided tour, then relish a free afternoon to explore. Your ship will stay docked in port until late evening, so you may wish to disembark and savour dinner at your leisure at a local restaurant. 

Day 5: Kotor

Cruise the stunning fjord of Kotor Bay in Montenegro. Upon arrival in Kotor, enjoy time at leisure to explore. Those feeling energetic may like to climb the 1,350 steps to the top of the town’s fortifications, or alternatively, join an optional walking tour of the Old Town.

Enhance Your Journey — Kotor Walking Tour

Head out on a guided walking tour through the enchanting Old Town of Kotor. Marvel at the towering St. Tryphon Cathedral as you learn about one of the best-preserved buildings in the town, dating back to the 12th century. Delve into the cathedral’s history and its significance to the town. Next, embark on a short drive to the Cable Car station where you’ll ascend to the summit of Lovćen Mountain. Here, spend time at leisure to soak in exceptional views over the Bay of Kotor and Lovćen National Park.

Enhance Your Journey — Montenegro Highlights

Take in the awe-inspiring views of Budva Riviera as you travel towards Cetinje, the former royal capital of Montenegro. In Cetinje, head to the Museum of King Nikola and learn about Montenegro’s cultural and historical heritage. Make your way towards Lovćen Mountain and stop at the village of Njegusi for an immersive cultural experience, where you’ll learn about the production process of smoked ham. Then, savour a meal of smoked ham and local cheese with honey and wine at an authentic restaurant. Continue driving along the route that the Irish playwright Bernard Shaw followed at the beginning of the twentieth century to Montenegro. On returning to Kotor, explore the town at your leisure.

Day 6: Otranto 

Today, dock in the picturesque port town of Otranto, located in Italy’s stunning Puglia region. The morning is at your leisure to explore. Perhaps head out on an optional guided city tour of Otranto or an optional tour to the historic town of Lecce. This afternoon, relax on board with fellow passengers as your ship sets sail towards Greece.

Enhance Your Journey – Otranto City Tour

Delve into Otranto, a picturesque seaside town with a Mediterranean flair that evokes Greek influences. This stunning location offers a unique blend of East and West, shaped by its rich history of Byzantine, Norman, Aragonese, and Ottoman influences. Explore its medieval charm through the 15th-century Castello Aragonese, rebuilt after the 1480 Ottoman raid, and the 12th-century cathedral, famous for its floor mosaic that harmoniously represents symbols from Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Stroll through its labyrinthine streets, uncovering the captivating beauty and layered history of this vibrant historical gem.

Enhance Your Journey – Tour of Lecce

Head out on an optional tour of Lecce, often referred to as the ‘Florence of the South’ for its elegance and harmonious Baroque architectural style. Learn about how the town expanded in the 17th and 18th centuries, with grand churches and spectacular palazzi showcasing the best of Baroque design. Admire the beautiful limestone buildings adorned with intricate carvings, and visit the two main churches of the city, the Duomo di Lecce and the Basilica di Santa Croce.

Day 7: Itea, Delphi, Corinth Canal, Athens

This morning, arrive in the Greek port of Itea and set off on an excursion to the sacred site of Delphi. In ancient times, Delphi was considered the centre of the known world. Explore the Sanctuary of Apollo and visit the partially reconstructed Treasury of the Athenians. You’ll also visit the impressive museum, which houses one of the greatest collections of archaeological treasures.  Later, your ship will traverse the famous Corinth Canal, which is just 21.3 metres wide. This evening, join your fellow travellers for a Captain’s Farewell Dinner.

Day 8: Syros

Awake in Syros, located in the spectacular Cyclades. The day has been set aside for you to explore at your leisure. Perhaps take an optional tour of the island and discover an array of colour and architecture. This evening, join your fellow travellers for a Gala Welcome Dinner. 

Enhance Your Journey – Walking Tour of Syros

Enjoy a walking tour of Syros, one of the smallest yet most populous Cycladic islands, blending modern and traditional Greek charm. Explore Ermoupoli, the island’s grandest town, and visit highlights like the Holy Cathedral, El Greco’s ‘Dormition of the Virgin’, and the first modern Greek high school. Admire the neoclassical mansions of the Vaporia district, the stunning Orthodox Cathedral of Agios Nikolaos, and end at the Apollon Theatre and Miaouli Square, home to the town hall and Greece’s first opera house.

Day 8: Athens

On a tour of Athens, take in the city’s most popular attractions including the Acropolis, the Parthenon and the historic neighbourhood of Plaka.

Day 9: Amorgos 

Arrive in the beautiful island of Amorgos, known for its ancient ruins and quaint villages. Set out on a guided tour, followed by an Insider Experience. Your ship will stay docked in port until late evening, so you may wish to disembark and enjoy dinner at your leisure.

Insider Experience – Olive Oil Press

Visit a local olive oil press to learn about the production of this essential ingredient. Savour a tasting of the local produce and relish the unique flavour composition. 

Day 10: Nisyros, Symi

Today takes you to the volcanic island of Nisyros, where you will enjoy free time to explore. In the port of Mandraki, you may like to wander through its whitewashed streets and visit the cliffside monastery of Panagia Spiliani or perhaps visit the archaeological museum. Alternatively, join an optional tour to the Polyvotis volcano.   

Later, continue to the island of Symi to discover an old-world glamour and neoclassical architecture, a legacy of Italian rule almost a century ago. With the afternoon at leisure, you may wish to join an optional guided tour. 

Enhance Your Journey – Nisyros Walking Tour 

Explore Mandraki, the vibrant capital and harbor of Nisyros, on a scenic walking tour. Wander through its charming squares, like Plateia Delfinion, with intricate pebbled floors, and stroll along streets lined with two-story houses, painted in white or lively colors. These homes, built from volcanic rock, are insulated with pumice-stone, reflecting the island’s natural beauty. Mandraki offers a blend of traditional architecture and modern amenities. As you walk, admire the island’s unique blend of natural and man-made wonders, capturing the essence of Nisyros in every step.

Enhance Your Journey – Symi Panoramic Tour

Board a coach in Symi harbour and admire the wonderful cypress forest on a panoramic drive to Panormitis bay. Here you will stop for a photo opportunity at Panorama point with wonderful views of the island. Continue on to the Panormitis Monastery, where you can marvel at the collections of relics and post Byzantine manuscripts in the Folklore and Eccalesiastic Museum.  

Day 11: Kusadasi, Ephesus  

This morning you will dock in Kuşadasi, located on Türkiye’s Anatolian coast.

Insider Experience – Visit Ephesus

Drive to the nearby ancient city of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved classical cities of the Eastern Mediterranean. Step back in time today as you immerse yourself in ancient Roman life and imagine the city’s former splendour. Broad streets are lined with impressive buildings, including the Library of Celsus, which was built in memory of Celsus Polemeanus, a Roman senator and reportedly a lover of great books. 

Day 12: Mykonos

Land on the dazzling Greek isle of Mykonos, where you’ll have the day at leisure to explore. Perhaps join an optional walking tour through the main town or chora. Your ship will stay docked in port until late evening, so you may wish to disembark and enjoy dinner at your leisure at a local restaurant.  

Enhance Your Journey – Walking Tour of Town and Island Tour   

Join an optional tour by coach through the main town or chora, taking in the incredible views of inland Mykonos. Admire the old port and spot local fishermen in their traditional fishing boats. Enjoy panoramas of charming Cycladic architecture and famous windmills so often featured on postcards. Next stop is the village of Ano Mera. Prepare to be in awe of its alluring architecture, captivating public square and the historic Panagia Tourliani Monastery. Observe local life as you wander through a labyrinth of authentic bakeries, taverns and cafes. Then, spend some time at leisure at Kalafatis beach, a particularly stunning setting with a backdrop of the Aegean Sea. Venture back to the old port of Mykonos. Set off through a maze of bustling tiny lanes, soak in the whitewashed buildings with iconic blue shutters and see the majestic, blue-domed churches. 

Enhance Your Journey – Walking Tour of Mykonos 

Take part in an immersive guided walking tour through Mykonos’ main town. Wind your way through traditional laneways lined with iconic cubed architecture, charming blue shutters and bright domed churches. Discover the delightful old port, boasting authentic fishing boats and glittering turquoise water, reminiscent of postcards. Learn about local life and the secrets of the island’s rich history. There are plenty of photo opportunities with stops at Little Venice and the Church of Panagia Paraportiani. Relish free time to explore more or enjoy a drink at a local terrace bar before concluding your tour. 

Day 13: Milos

Known for its most celebrated export, the iconic Venus de Milo, volcanic Milos arches around a central caldera and is ringed with dramatic coastal landscapes of colourful and surreal rock formations. Disembark your ship and enjoy a tour of the island which includes Plaka, the island’s capital, the beach of Sarakiniko and the small fishing village of Pollonia. With the afternoon at leisure, you may wish to enjoy a relaxing morning at one of the island’s most picturesque beaches, Paleochori. Relish free time to explore more or enjoy a drink at a local terrace bar before concluding your tour. This evening, join your fellow travellers for a Captain’s Farewell Dinner. 

Day 14: Disembark Ship, Depart Venice

After breakfast, disembark and transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK.