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Peregrine Travel Centre

Wonders of Corsica & Sardinia

Wonders of Corsica & Sardinia

From £3,095 GBP

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Description

Join us aboard the Panorama II for a glorious journey to many places that are beyond the reach of the megacruise ships. From our starting point in Tuscany we sail to the enchanting island of Elba, best known as Napoleon’s island of exile before continuing to Corsica for four days of discovery. Although officially part of France, the island of Corsica has its own identity in everything from customs to language and benefits from magnificent geographical diversity ranging from wonderful natural harbours to picture perfect hilltop villages and a majestic countryside of vineyards and deep valleys. After time spent calling into some stunning harbours, exploring Medieval towns, charming villages and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, we sail to Sardinia with its unspoilt coastline and fascinating cultural heritage. Sardinia is endlessly fascinating and ideal for exploration by small ship. With so many experiences on offer during our voyage we have planned the itinerary carefully to ensure there is adequate time to relax on board, join the guided excursions and explore some of the delightful towns under your own steam.

Trip Name
Wonders of Corsica & Sardinia
Days
9
Overview
Vessel Type: Sail Cruiser Length: 54 metres Passenger Capacity: 49 Built / refurbished: 1993 / 2008 / 2012 / 2015 Launched in 2004, fully renovated in 2012 and upgraded again in 2015,  the two-masted Panorama II is a 164 foot motor sailer accommodating just 49 guests. If you find large resort style vessels accommodating many thousands of passengers attractive then of course this isn’t the vessel for you. However, if you prefer an informal and warm atmosphere more akin to a private yacht combined with an itinerary dedicated to both discovery and relaxation then you need look no further.  All the cabins on board Panorama II are designed for comfort and have a nautical feel with light fabrics and wood trimmings. Cabins range in size from 97 to 173 square feet and those located on the Upper and Main Decks are equipped with windows, while those on the Lower Deck have portholes. Cabins either have twin beds or fixed double beds. (Cabins  A1, 1, 2, 3, 4, 14, 15, 16, 17). Facilities include en suite bathrooms with showers, cabin TV (for DVD only), mini-fridge, safety deposit box and hairdryer. The public areas include a main lounge and bar with comfortable sofas, a restaurant located on the Lower Deck and the Upper Deck al fresco dining area where meals can be enjoyed when weather permits. There is also a swimming platform enabling guests to swim when weather and anchorage conditions permit and the Upper Deck provides a generous semi covered or sun exposed space with sun loungers and chairs, ideal for relaxation and fantastic views.  Located on the Lower Deck, the indoor dining room seats all passengers in a single, unassigned seating and offers generous buffet space. The aft area on the Upper Deck provides a generous semicovered area where guests can enjoy meals al fresco with wonderful views, weather permitting. Food is served at the table or displayed on the hot and cold buffets stands. The menu is Greek and international, with a focus on local specialties. On each itinerary, we have included the opportunity for you to dine ashore independently allowing you to experience the local flavours.  During the day, life on board focuses around the indoor lounge area, and the indoor dining room, as well as the open and inviting deck areas. These are natural gathering places and perfect for enjoying your meals al fresco, settling into a comfortable chair with a good book or socialising with your fellow passengers and enjoying the views. The swimming platform on Panorama II’s stern enables you to swim off the yacht when weather and anchorage conditions permit. (only applicable for voyages around Greece).  Deck plans vary depending on cruise operator, please check for details.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1 - London to Pisa, Italy.
Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to the Panorama II berthed in Livorno and embark. Enjoy Welcome Drinks and Dinner as we sail this evening.
Day 2 - Day 2 - Elba.
Today we call into the enchanting island of Elba, best known as Napoleon’s island of exile from 1814 to 1815. Departing from the island’s busy capital Portoferraio, we set out for a delightful drive exploring the southern region of this charming island with superb views over the coastline. The first stop will be Villa San Martino which was the summer residence of Napoleon Bonaparte and has been transformed into a museum. Later enjoy some time at leisure in Porto Azzurro to browse around and shop among the many local boutiques of this delightful town which is dominated by an ancient Spanish fortress and a picturesque harbour. Our drive continues along the coast to the 17th century country wine farm, La Chiusa which is beautifully nestled in a vineyard estate surrounded by olive trees and overlooking the ocean. As any self-respecting mansion on Elba, La Chiusa claims to have once housed Napoleon during his exile here. Experience the estate’s interesting cellar to learn how the wine is handled and produced and in the estate’s garden facing the sea, we will enjoy a delicious sampling of the local wine. Return to the ship for lunch and enjoy an afternoon at leisure in Portoferraio. Tonight is free to dine independently at one of the restaurants in town.
Day 3 - Day 3 - Bastia, Corsica.
Situated on the north of the island of Corsica, Bastia was the old Genoese capital and is now a busy port. Its setting is handsome, the classic Mediterranean allure of pale, sunlit streets flanked with tall colourful buildings. Our walking tour of the historic quarter will include the 15th century cathedral, chapels and Baroque buildings such as the Oratoire St Roch, Oratoire de l’Immaculee Conception and the Roccoco church, St Jean Baptiste, famous for its twin campaniles. Return to the ship for lunch and this afternoon choose to relax on board, enjoy some free time in Bastia or join an excursion to the small fishing port of St Florent. Our drive will take us through the Nebbio which takes its name from the thick mist that sweeps over the region and is now reputed for its fine wines from Patrimonio. On arrival in St Florent we will have time to wander the maze of narrow streets and take a coffee in one of the waterfront cafes whilst watching the yachts in the marina. Enjoy dinner on board this evening and, as we sail late tonight, perhaps have an after dinner stroll.
Day 4 - Day 4 - Calvi.
Arrive this morning in Calvi, the capital of the prosperous Balagne region of the island. Enjoy the vista of the surrounding green hills that form a natural amphitheatre and is known as the ‘Garden of Corsica’. A guided tour will lead us through the alleyways and cobbled streets before continuing to the imposing citadel. Built by the Genoese, this 15th century structure has seen off several assaults through the centuries and offers wonderful views from its five bastions. We will also see the Caserne Sampiero and 13th century Cathedral St Jean Baptiste. This afternoon, after lunch on board, there will be an opportunity to explore the flora of Corsica with a visit to the seven hectare Parc de Saleccia where you can explore the range of paths through the gardens and see the tough plants of the maquis, pines, myrtles, figs and over 100 varieties of olive trees. Alternatively return to the town for some free time. Please note that we will be at anchor today and will use the vessel’s Zodiacs or local tender.
Day 5 - Day 5 - Ajaccio.
The capital of Corsica is famed as the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte whose family arrived here in 1492 with about 100 other Genoese and Ligurian families intent on colonising this part of Corsica. On a leisurely morning walking tour of the old town we will take in many of the places associated with Napoleon including the late 17th century Maison Bonaparte, which is now a museum, and Ajaccio Cathedral, where it is rumoured Napoleon was born on the cathedral steps. After lunch on board enjoy an afternoon to explore independently, you may wish to visit Palais Fesch, established by Napoleon’s uncle it houses France’s largest collection of Italian paintings outside the Louvre. This evening is free to dine in one of the towns many stylish restaurants or cafes.
Day 6 - Day 6 - Bonifacio.
Our last day in Corsica will be in Bonifacio’s stunning natural harbour. Well known by Odysseus as the home of the savage and giant Laestrygonians, today Bonifacio’s breathtaking cliff-top setting and relaxed pace make it one of the most welcoming ports in the Mediterranean. On our morning tour we will explore the narrow streets and the historical heart of the town. We will discover the Bosco quarter with the St Francis Convent, the 14th century church of St Marie Majeure and take in the views from the cliff top on which the city is built. Return to the ship for lunch and enjoy the afternoon and evening in port to explore further at your own pace. Maybe take a local boat ride to the Lavezzi Islands or a walk in the nearby Marine Park which offers some stunning views.
Day 7 - Day 7 - Olbia & La Maddalena, Sardinia.
Our first call in Sardinia will be the fetching city of Olbia with its charming historic centre full of boutiques, wine bars and piazzas. On a morning tour we will travel to the island of La Maddalena by local boats from the port of Palau and spend time exploring this pretty island well off the beaten tourist track. In 1789 Napoleon, then a young artillery commander, was thwarted in his attempt to take the Maddalena archipelago by local Sardinian forces and in 1803 Lord Nelson arrived and used the superb anchorage at La Maddalena to shelter his fleet during the long blockade of Toulon from 1803 to 1805. In recognition of the kindness shown by the islanders, Nelson donated some silver candle holders and a crucifix which can still be seen today in the church. Return to the ship for lunch and an afternoon at leisure to explore Olbia at your own pace.
Day 8 - Day 8 - Alghero.
The Medieval city of Alghero was colonised by the Catalans in the 14th century and today there is still a strong Catalan identity throughout the town and it is often even referred to as “Barceloneta”. We will use the attractive port as our base for a day of exploration in the region. This morning’s panoramic drive takes us to Nuraghe Palmavera. The main tower of the Nuraghe, which still has its dome shaped ceiling, dates back to 1,100 years BC. The complex, which was abandoned in the 5th century BC due to fire shows the different phases of social life and political organisation of the tribal community. You are free to enjoy lunch in the city and spend the afternoon exploring Alghero at your own pace. Return to the ship for dinner as we sail this evening. Please note that we will be at anchor today and will use the vessel’s Zodiacs or local tender.
Day 9 - Day 9 - Cagliari.
Spend a relaxing morning at sea before we arrive into the Sardinian capital of Cagliari in the early afternoon. Cagliari is an ancient city which dates back to the Phoenicians and Romans and on a walking tour we will stroll around the old town with its narrow streets running along a steep hillside. See the terraced Piazza del Palazzo and the 14th century cathedral of St Cecila. We will moor overnight for anyone wishing to enjoy an after dinner drink or stroll this evening
Day 10 - Day 10 - Cagliari to London.
Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
18-05-201827-05-2018£3,995Main Deck Cabin Sole
18-05-201827-05-2018£3,395Lower Deck Forward Cabin Sole
18-05-201827-05-2018£4,095Upper Deck Cabin
18-05-201827-05-2018£3,595Main Deck Cabin
18-05-201827-05-2018£3,095Lower Deck Forward Cabin
18-05-201827-05-2018£3,395Lower Deck Cabin

Inclusions

    • Enjoy the enchanting island of Elba, best known as Napoleon’s island of exile from 1814 to 1815.
    • Visit Ajaccio
    • the capital of Corsica is famed as the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte.
    • Discover the Medieval city of Alghero.
    • Explore Cagliari
    • an ancient city which dates back to the Phoenicians and Romans.

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