Description
For thousands of years southeastern Europe has been a crossroads of empires. Greeks, Persians, Romans, Byzantines and Ottomans all left their mark on the culture, philosophy, art and architecture of this region. In more recent times, some of the countries that occupy this strategic part of Europe have been at the centre of conflict as world powers continue to contend for influence and control. We invite you to join us on this voyage between Venice and Athens to explore this fascinating corner of the world as we sail through turquoise waters, admire rugged landscapes and visit some of the region’s greatest sites.
This is not an itinerary that a large cruise ship could operate but one that is ideal for the 50-passenger MS Monet. We have timed our voyages for the months of May, June and September when the crowds of summer are yet to arrive or have departed and the temperatures are perfect for exploration. We will experience the beauty and charm of Venice, picturesque Slovenia, the wonderfully preserved Medieval town of Korcula, and Montenegro’s walled fortress town of Kotor along the Dalmatian coast. We also discover some of the fascinating ancient sites in the region including Diocletian’s Palace in Split, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Butrint, Albania, whose ruins span some 2,500 years and the ancient Sanctuary of Apollo in Delphi, Greece.
The rich legacy of multiple civilisations, each building atop another, is evident everywhere during our itinerary and our guided trips ashore will be a pleasure as we explore in small groups with our excellent local guides and knowledgeable Guest Speaker. Whether your interest lies in ancient history, modern politics or simply the joy of experiencing new places, this journey has much to offer.