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Passage through the Balkans with Adriatic Shores & Greek Archipelagos

Passage through the Balkans with Adriatic Shores & Greek Archipelagos

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Description

This Amazing Small ship cruise combined with a an over-land tour kicks of in Serbia and works it’s way to the Adriatic coast. From there, on board the Caledonian Sky Explore the coast all the way down to Greece where yet more experiences await in Athens and the surrounding ports of call.

Trip Name
Passage through the Balkans with Adriatic Shores & Greek Archipelagos
Days
18
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 Belgrade
In the Serbian capital of Belgrade today, we’ll meet you on arrival and transfer you to your hotel. There’s time to relax before a welcome dinner with fellow guests this evening.Stay: Two Nights, Belgrade, Hilton Hotel or similar
Day 2 - Day 2 Belgrade
Today, experience Belgrade on a walking discovery, including the Old Town’s Bohemian quarter, where cobbled streets are lined with trees and cafes. At its heart, take a stroll down the curved street of Skardalija dotted with taverns, art galleries and antique shops. Later, you’ll also visit the burial place of Josip Broz Tito, Belgrade Fortress, Kalemegdan Park and the Church of Saint Sava, one of the largest Orthodox places of worship in the world.
Day 3 - Day 3 Belgrade, Zlatibor
After breakfast this morning, head for Zlatibor, a region of mountains, rolling hills and rural villages, considered one of the most beautiful in Serbia. Along the way, linger in a local winery, which has been family-owned for generations, where warm hospitality and wine tasting are the order of the day. Later, continue to your hotel for the next two nights.Stay: Two Nights, Hotel Zlatibor Mona or similar
Day 4 - Day 4 Zlatibor
It’s all aboard the Šargan Eight Railroad this morning, as this heritage narrow-gauge railway loops through lovely scenery. You’ll also learn about this historical feat of engineering, which was built by Austro-Hungarian forces during World War I. Afterwards, continue to the timber village of Drvengard for lunch. Filmmaker Emir Kusturica created this village as the setting for his film Life is a Miracle and it is now an open-air museum depicting traditional life. This afternoon is dedicated to exploring Tara National Park. Nothing short of breathtaking, you’ll see pristine forested slopes, ravines and the dramatic Drina River Canyon, which is the third largest of its kind in the world.
Day 5 - Day 5 Zlatibor, Sarajevo
Sit back and watch the views slide by as you journey from Zlatibor to Sarajevo this morning. Once you’ve arrived in the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, there’s time to settle into your hotel and enjoy this afternoon as you like. With a full day set aside to discovering Sarajevo tomorrow, you might like to relax a while before dinner at a local restaurant this evening.Stay: Two Nights, Sarajevo, Hotel Europe or similar
Day 6 - Day 6 Sarajevo
FREEDOM OF CHOICE™ - SightseeingPerhaps visit Sarajevo’s Old Town, including the Baščaršija, which is the city’s ancient bazaar as well as its cultural and historical centre. Baščaršija dates back to the 15th century when it was founded by Isa-Beg Isaković. Afterwards, enjoy a wander along (Coppersmith’s Street) and see the Yellow and White Bastions, which are part of the old wall that originally protected the city. Alternatively, journey to Bijambare Nature Park, not far from Sarajevo, and explore the ancient Bijambare caves. This limestone cave complex, filled with stalagmites and stalactites, enjoys a stunning natural setting of pine forests and pasture.
Day 7 - Day 7 Sarajevo, Mostar
Leaving Sarajevo, set out for the historic city of Mostar today, arriving in time for lunch. Spanning a valley carved out by the Neretva River, this is a city packed with charming streets and architecture, clustered along steep river banks. First, sample traditional street food, burek (a delicious meat or cheese pastry), before continuing to see Stari Most (Old Bridge). This is the city’s centrepiece, a magnificent stone arch between medieval towers, which straddles the Neretva River. This 16th-century Ottoman treasure was rebuilt in 2004 and is now a World Heritage-listed structure known for its tradition of bridge diving. Later, take your time discovering the colourful stalls and handicrafts on display at the local bazaar of Kujundžiluk.Stay: Mostar, Hotel Mepas or similar
Day 8 - Day 8 Mostar, Dubrovnik
This morning, travel to Mali Ston, a pretty fishing village overlooking the Adriatic Sea. Here, jump aboard a boat to visit an oyster farm and taste these delicacies fresh from the sea, an experience sure to tempt your appetite for lunch at a local restaurant. Afterwards, transfer to the ancient walled city of Dubrovnik, on the shores of the Adriatic. Set against a rugged mountain backdrop, this idyllic coastal city is a regular on the silver screen. Take your time settling into your hotel before joining a guided discovery of Dubrovnik’s Old Town and maze of alleyways. Later this evening, sit down to a farewell dinner with your fellow guests.Stay: Hotel Dubrovnik or similar
Day 9 - Day 9 Dubrovnik, Embark Ship
Today enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel with free time before boarding your ship this afternoon. Tonight’s welcome dinner celebrates the next chapter of your Mediterranean adventure.Stay: Nine Nights, MS Caledonian Sky
Day 10 - Day 10 Kotor
Head up on deck early, as your ship carves through Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor. Wrapped in medieval stone walls, the city of Kotor’s setting is as striking as its storied interior. As your ship docks in this World Heritage-listed site, it’s time to leaf through this living history book. The Cathedral of St Tryphon, the Maritime Museum and town gates, as well as Romanesque churches are just some of the discoveries on a guided wander through the town. After lunch back aboard, perhaps scale the heights of the Castle of San Giovanni for bay views or enjoy the afternoon as you like.
Day 11 - Day 11 Durrës, Tirana
On Albania’s Dalmatian Coast, disembark in the seaside town of Durrës and set out to discover the nation’s capital Tirana. Enjoy a city tour including a visit to the House of Leaves Museum. Located in the former headquarters of the Sigurimi, the Albanian secret service. The museum provides a fascinating showcase, from documents to surveillance equipment used by the Hoxha regime. Back on board for lunch, your ship gets underway for Corfu.
Day 12 - Day 12 Corfu
SIGNATURE EXPERIENCEEnjoy dinner at Ambelonas Farm, whose history dates back to the 1600s. You’ll also meet the estate’s owner, for an insight into the farm’s vineyard.Enjoy a leisurely morning aboard. After lunch, travel to Gastouri to visit the Achilleion Palace. Here, admire statues of the nine Greek muses, explore the palace and take in views of the Ionian Sea. Round off the day with a Signature Experience.
Day 13 - Day 13 Ithaca
One of the smallest of the Ionian isles, Ithaca remains wonderfully unspoilt, despite being home to the legendary Greek hero Odysseus. Today, this renowned setting for Homer’s epic poem, The Odyssey, is no less captivating. Lush pine and cypress forests carpet hills and cascade down to clear blue seas. This afternoon, explore the idyllic port of Vathy.
Day 14 - Day 14 Katakolon
Cruise to Katakolon, to see the site of Ancient Olympia, a venue for the original Olympics. Once upon a time, it was a small regional festival in the 11th century, dedicated to the god Zeus. At the primary site, you’ll see the main temple devoted to the god, featuring a statue made of ivory and gold. A local guide will show you the gymnasium, where athletes trained, and the main stadium where the games were held. Later, visit a local farm for lunch and a wine tasting straight from oak barrels produced on the estate. There’s time to stroll here too.
Day 15 - Day 15 Itea, Corinth Canal
SIGNATURE EXPERIENCEReturn to your ship in time to capture a majestic sunset as you cruise through the Corinth Canal.FREEDOM OF CHOICE™ - SightseeingPerhaps visit Delphi, one of Greece’s most significant sites of antiquity, at the foot of Mt Parnassus. Hillside ruins depict the Pan-Hellenic sanctuary of Apollo, a sacred site including the Temple of Apollo, the Treasury of the Athenians and the ancient Greek theatre. Or, visit the seaside village of Galaxidi. A guided stroll, takes you to landmarks including Agios Nikolaos church, overlooking the Adriatic.From the Greek port of Itea, set out on your chosen activity. Later, a special Signature Experience awaits.
Day 16 - Day 16 Hydra, Nafplion
Today, set your sights on the sleepy isle of Hydra, in the Saronic Gulf. After breakfast enjoy a gentle morning wandering the cobbled laneways and lemon-scented squares of Hydra’s horseshoe-shaped harbour. Meander back to your ship for lunch before cruising to the beautiful seaport of Nafplion in the Peloponnese archipelago. An overnight stay has been set aside for you here, for an evening walking tour around this enchanting city.
Day 17 - Day 17 Nafplion
FREEDOM OF CHOICE™ - SightseeingIf you’d like to see more of Nafplion, join a guided wander through the city’s medieval Old Town. Explore the maze of narrow streets, brimming with flower boxes and framed with Venetian and neoclassical architecture. Alternatively, discover the secrets of one of Greece’s most iconic products, honey. Join a beekeeper at a local apiary, to learn about bees in their natural environment, and enjoy a Greek honey-tasting. Or explore Nafplion from the water on a sea-kayaking tour. Cut through the port’s deep-blue water on a sea kayak and admire the idyllic coastline and local fortresses that line its shores.After breakfast, head off on your chosen sightseeing activity.
Day 18 - Day 18 Disembark Ship, Depart Athens
After breakfast, we’ll transfer you to Athens Airport for your onward flight.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type

Inclusions

    • Watch the sun set as you cruise through the Corinth Canal
    • On the island of Corfu, head to Ambelonas Farm to see its wine estate and enjoy dinner

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