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Riches of the French Riviera (Caledonian Sky)

Riches of the French Riviera (Caledonian Sky)

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Description

A Small Ship Cruise Visiting Northwestern Mediterranean Countries. Experience Spain, France and Italy with their unique Cultures people and Histories. A trip surely not to be forgotten.

Trip Name
Riches of the French Riviera (Caledonian Sky)
Days
10
Overview
Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition Length: 90 metres Passenger Capacity: 114 (in 57 suites) Built: 1991 / refurbished 2012 The MS Caledonian Sky accommodates a maximum of 114 passengers in 57 spacious outside suites. Many have walk-in wardrobes and some feature tub baths. There will be seven categories of suites and sixteen suites will have private balconies. For those familiar with the MS Island Sky she will feel like a second home, although there are some differences. The dining room, lounge, Lido Deck and bar are all similar. However, the ‘Club’ on the MS Caledonian Sky has been transported to the very top deck. Here, there is a library and bar which leads out on to a lovely forward deck. The ‘Club’ has wonderful views with ceiling to floor windows. If you like the MS Island Sky, we are sure you will also approve of her sister. And, of course it is important that we offer the very best of facilities. However, equally as important are the staff on board whether they are the vessel’s crew or our own expedition staff. Noble Caledonia’s reputation has been built on providing the very best in all areas. Their crew of 74 not only offer an excellent service they are also noted for their kindness and attention to detail. A well run ship with a warm atmosphere is what we are known for, and it is because most of our crew have been with us for many years that we are able to engender such an atmosphere. Your Suite Onboard there are 57 exceptionally spacious and well designed suites. The passenger accommodation is arranged over four decks and all suites have outside views. All feature a sitting room area and some have private balconies. Each affords considerable comfort with en-suite bathroom featuring a country style wash basin, hot towel rack and vanity unit with sink and walk-in shower and/or bath tub. Facilities in the suites also include walk-in or spacious wardrobes, dressing table with large mirror and stool or desk, mini-fridge, flat screen television, telephone, programmable electronic safe, hairdryer, assorted toiletries, air-conditioning and heating. Bottled water, towelling dressing gowns and slippers are also provided for your comfort. Your space The spacious and finely decorated public rooms include a large lounge where daily briefings and talks will be provided throughout the voyage and an elegant bar where a pianist plays periodically throughout the day. The bar also features a 24-hour tea and coffee station. In addition there is the Club Lounge on the Panoramic Deck which features a bar. The onboard travel library is the perfect place to relax with a book and is stocked with reference books pertaining to the places the vessel is visiting along with a selection of games and two computers with internet access. Daily newspapers and magazines are also placed in the library depending on local availability. Outside there is a rear Lido deck where meals are served in warm weather under shade. On the top deck there is a further observation and sun deck with bar service and comfortable deck furniture for sun bathing or relaxing with a book. There is also a small gymnasium onboard and hairdressers with appointments made on request. Your dining With only one sitting and a maximum of just over 100 passengers, the quality of cuisine will be of a consistent superior quality. Where possible and when it meets his high standards, our accomplished chef will obtain local produce in markets or buy the catch of the day from a passing fishing boat. Such purchases enhance the well stocked larders and bring a local touch to the varied menus. In the main elegant dining room, breakfast is served buffet-style, with certain items cooked to order and lunch and dinner is à la carte. When weather permits, breakfast, a buffet-style lunch and dinner are also served on deck. To enhance your dining experience even further a selection of wines are included with lunch and dinner. Afternoon tea is served in the lounge and tea and coffee are available 24 hours. With sufficient notice, most diets can be catered for on board. For your comfort, safety and security The vessel is equipped with the latest safety, navigation and communications equipment along with roll stabilisers to minimise the ship’s motion. The Captain and officers operate an open-bridge policy that allows passengers onto the bridge at most times with the exception of arrival and departure from port and during times of complicated navigation. Here you can check the ship’s progress by charts and learn more from the officers about your journey. There is also a dedicated channel on your television in your suite showing the routing of the vessel along with technical information and estimated times of arrival and departure from port. On board you will also find a clinic and doctor and a lift that serves all decks. Smoking on board is restricted to outside decks only. Gratuities Unlike many other cruise vessels, onboard the MS Caledonian Sky you do not need to worry about tipping staff as we have included them in your holiday price. In addition we tip all their guides and drivers along the way, thereby taking away the hassle of always having to remember to have some small change with you.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1 Arrive Barcelona, Embark Ship
Barcelona is the perfect starting point for your cruise along the Mediterranean’s glamorous north shores. You’ll be met on arrival and transferred to your ship. Your first night starts as it should, with sparkling and dinner on board.Stay: Six Nights, MS Caledonian Sky
Day 2 - Day 2 Sète
FREEDOM OF CHOICE™ - SightseeingPerhaps head inland via Languedoc’s wine country to spend time in Montpellier. Discover this city’s Opéra Comédie with a guide, one of two opera houses in the city’s central square, the Place de Comédie. Then wander Montpellier’s historic Saint-Roch quarter, home to an enticing cluster of artisanal workshops. If you’d prefer to stay in Sète, why not join a cruise along the city’s network of peaceful canals. Alternatively, get on your bike and embrace this popular French pastime on a cycle tour through the city’s streets.This morning, find yourself in Sète, on France’s Côte d’Azur where you can design your day to suit you with our Freedom of Choice activities.
Day 3 - Day 3 Cassis, Aix-en-Provence
Flanked by soaring cliffs and deep inlets, the fishing port of Cassis enchants visitors to this rugged coast, east of Marseille. It’s an ideal stop-off before heading inland to the university town of Aix-en-Provence, for a full day’s discovery with a guide. Amble through honey-coloured avenues cooled by tunnels of plane trees in summer. Bask in Aix-en-Provence’s history and balmy climate. Piece together the storied past of noble pavilions, cathedrals and museums. Take your time getting to know this elegant, Provençal-style city which made such an impression on the painter Cézanne, before tonight’s late departure.
Day 4 - Day 4 Fréjus, Saint-Tropez
SIGNATURE EXPERIENCESpend time in the Roman amphitheatre Arènes de Fréjus, where you can try your hand at the traditional game of pétanque, similar to bowls.Fréjus has its roots in Roman history. Explore the city with a guide, on a visit to its 5th-century baptistery in Fréjus Cathedral. Tucked among modern buildings, you’ll find Roman structures dating back to Augustus and Caesar. We have a Signature Experience arranged for you here. Later, set sail for Saint-Tropez, where the afternoon is yours to enjoy this French Riviera hotspot. With a late departure arranged for you, the luxury of time means more opportunities to meander through the town’s historic citadel and maritime museum. The Old Port retains its fishing village ambience and borders the Old Town, filled with boutique-lined laneways.
Day 5 - Day 5 Antibes
FREEDOM OF CHOICE™ - SightseeingIf you’re heading for the coastal glitz of Nice, venture beyond its seafront Promenade des Anglais. Perhaps focus on the city’s art museums, dedicated to French artists like the expressionists Chagall and Matisse. Wander the streets of Nice’s Old Town, strung with fluttering laundry. Dig into Roman history, or tour the city’s Cimiez Monastery. Alternatively, in Cannes, famed for its film festival, perhaps stroll along its palm-lined boulevard, La Croisette. Then sit down to sea views and a taste of the high life in its elegant eateries.Wake in the French Riviera town of Antibes, once home to the artist Picasso, with a museum in his honour. Explore the town’s fort and cobbled streets with a detour to Antibes’ Provençal Market. This afternoon, visit Nice or Cannes. It’s up to you.
Day 6 - Day 6 Bastia
On the island of Corsica, the northern port of Bastia has history at its core, you’ll find on this morning’s walking tour. In the historic district of town, stop off at the twin-towered Saint-Jean-Baptiste Church, overlooking the old harbour. Then visit Bastia’s baroque St Marie Cathedral before continuing to the citadel in the newer part of town. This is the place to sample authentic Corsican cuisine, including appetisers of fresh seafood and cured meats. Following lunch back on board, choose how you spend your afternoon. Perhaps explore the Old Port or return to the bright boulevards of Bastia’s new town. Dine on your ship this evening ahead of a late departure tonight.
Day 7 - Day 7 Disembark Ship, Livorno, Pisa, Siena
Disembark in the Tuscan town of Livorno and travel to the Leaning Tower of Pisa, known worldwide for its unintended tilt. Later, traverse the rolling hills of Tuscany en route to your accommodation in Siena, where you’ll dine tonight.
Day 8 - 8 Zadar
FREEDOM OF CHOICE™ - SightseeingPerhaps travel to San Gimignano for a sightseeing discovery, with a tasting at the world-famous Gelateria Dondolim, owned by gelateria master Sergio Dondoli. Or, travel to Val d’Orcia, one of the most attractive areas in Tuscany. Here, visit the Renaissance town of Pienza, famous for its Pecorino cheese and truffle production. After a brief stroll, continue to the countryside farm of Podere il Casale, to visit its cheese factory and wander through the farm itself. A third option is to join a guided hike followed by a picnic lunch.Thanks to our Freedom of Choice options, you can shape your day according to your interests.
Day 9 - Day 9 Siena, Florence
Be guided by a historical lecturer on a morning exploration of Florence. You’ll visit the Galleria dell’Accademia to see Michelangelo’s Statue of David. Later, explore Florence’s Central Market where you’ll have the chance to meet local artisans and sample delicacies during free time. Back in Siena, enjoy a farewell dinner.
Day 10 - Day 10 Siena, Depart Rome
After breakfast, we’ll transfer you to Rome Airport for your onward flight.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type

Inclusions

    • Sit down to a gourmet lunch at a traditional Tuscan farmhouse
    • At the Roman amphitheatre Arènes de Fréjus, try your hand at the traditional game of pétanque

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