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Greek Isles, Malta & Naples with History Channel 14 Nights

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Operated by Holland America Line
Tripcode: E7M14L
Overview
Destination:
Greece
Italy
Malta
Montenegro
Spain
Turkiye
Start:Barcelona, Spain
Finish:Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy
Duration:15 days
Travel Period
August 2027 - August 2027
Welcome to an exclusive cruise itinerary curated in partnership with The HISTORY Channel™ — a 14-night adventure spanning vibrant Barcelona to the eternal city of Rome, onboard Oosterdam. Visit UNESCO World Heritage sites on expert-led shore excursions* and find yourself transported to ancient ruins, legendary landmarks, and cities that shaped civilisations. Enquire about the various shore excursions today to make the most of each destination. 
 
Please note:
- Price is based on the Have it All™ fare per person twin share in Partial Sea View Stateroom assigned prior to sailing.
- Shore excursions are at an additional cost. Some of the images shown represent available shore excursions, which are subject to change.
- For the most up-to-date rates, itinerary, availability, and for more information about the different service levels and shore excursions, please enquire now.
Highlights:
Standard inclusions
  • 24-hour room service;
  • Complimentary dining at selected restaurants (Lido Market, The Dining Room, Dive In poolside grill);
  • Entertainment including Billboard Onboard, World Stage and Rolling Stone Lounge;
  • Fitness centre and Pickleball at Sea;
  • Kids Club for ages 3 to 17.
 
PLUS, enjoy the following Have it All™ fare inclusions on this voyage:
 
  • Speciality dining at two separate fine dining restaurants (for two nights);
  • Beverage package upgrade to Elite: A daily limit of 15 beverages on all drinks priced $15 or less;
  • Shore excursion credit US$200 credit per person to apply towards shore excursion(s) purchase(s);
  • Premium Wi-Fi package.
Enquire with your RACV Travel Expert for details.
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Itinerary
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Day 1: Barcelona, Spain

Depart: 5:00pm

On the northeast coast of Spain, overlooking the Mediterranean, Barcelona is a vibrant port city, packed with centuries of iconic art and architecture—Gaudí and Picasso both called it home—and lined with sunny white-sand beaches. Explore the Catalan capital's tourist attractions and historic neighbourhoods, Modernisme and world-renowned art museums, galleries and local crafts shops—some of which are centuries old and stock traditional Catalan wares. After you see the sights, there are lively tapas bars around every corner where you can stop for a drink, a café amb llet (Catalan for espresso with steamed milk) or a snack, no matter the hour. Green spaces for picnics, long walks and respite from the hustle and bustle are scattered throughout Barcelona's attractions: There's Gaudí's mosaic-decorated park, a neoclassical maze at the Laberint d'Horta, as well as plenty of high places (mountains, monuments and edifices) where sightseeing visitors can take in the view. A short trip from Barcelona by car or train, luxury outlets, cava wineries, a mountaintop abbey and the sandy beaches of the Mediterranean coast await.

Day 2: Day at Sea

Enjoy a variety of onboard experiences.

Day 3: Valletta, Malta

Arrive: 8:00am | Depart: 5:00pm

The ancient city of Valletta is teeming with historic monuments, churches and gardens. At just one-third of a square mile in area, Europe's southernmost capital is one of the easiest to explore on foot. Given Malta's strategic location and succession of rulers including the Romans, Normans, Sicilians, Spanish, Knights of St. John, French and British, it’s somewhat surprising to see Valletta so well preserved. The city dates back to the 16th century and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1980. Extensive restorations of historic buildings are underway, including the rebuilding of the city entrance to mark Valletta's recognition as the European Capital of Culture in 2018. Decades of British rule mean that English remains an official language, along with the local Maltese language, plus a curious mix of Italian vocabulary and Semitic roots. As Malta lies just 50 miles south of Sicily, Italian influences dominate the cuisine and culture. Even so, the Maltese do value their own traditions, such as the folk music known as Għana, which features strong yet poetic male vocals over slow guitar music.

Day 4: Day At Sea

Enjoy a variety of onboard experiences.

Day 5: Souda (Chania), Greece

Arrive: 8:00am | Depart: 5:00pm

The port of Souda on the Aegean Sea is home to a Greek and NATO naval base and is located six kilometres (three miles) from Chania—the second-largest city on Crete, which itself is the largest of the Greek Islands. Once you’re in Chania, set your compass for the historic waterfront with its famous Venetian Harbour dating to the 14th century. Walk along the breakwater to the restored 500-year-old lighthouse for views that are particularly photogenic from late afternoon until sunset. The atmospheric tangle of streets that is Old Town is easily explored on foot, and you can stop at one of the many outdoor cafés for a bouyatsa (custard pastry) or a glass of Cretan red wine.Soúda can also be a jumping-off point for a visit to Rethymnon, located about 54 kilometres (33 miles) to the east. Shaped by centuries of invasion, namely by the Venetians and Turks, its Fortezza was built by the Venetians in the late 16th century and captured by the Ottomans in 1646. The Old Town has the same kind of architectural character as Chania, but on a smaller scale.

Day 6: Thira (Santorini), Greece

Arrive: 8:00am | Depart: 5:00pm

Santorini, the jewel in the crown of Greece's Cyclades, is best known as the island with the giant volcanic caldera at its heart. All but the largest ships can anchor here in this stunningly scenic bay. Cruise visitors who come for an afternoon or a day can immerse themselves in the art, food and legendary wines of this island that some believe may have been the site of the lost civilization of Atlantis. On Santorini you can do as Dionysus, the Greek god of wine, would do and sample the island's wonderful wines or play Indiana Jones and explore the archaeological treasures of ancient Thera. Santorini's pleasures will likely leave you with a taste for more and planning your return.

Day 7: Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey

Arrive: 7:00am | Depart: 6:00pm

Kusadasi in Turkey is the gateway to one of the most legendary cities of the ancient world: Ephesus. St. Paul preached in its Great Theatre, while the facade of the Celsus Library survives as a testament to the city’s role as a centre of learning and culture.
 
Not far from Ephesus, the Temple of Artemis (also known as the Temple of Diana), one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world, once stood, drawing pilgrims from around the Mediterranean. While it no longer stands, it is possible to walk amongst its foundations and the remains of its towering columns.          
 
Other historic sites can also be found nearby: The House of Mary is believed to be the home of Jesus’s mother at the end of her life, and the Basilica of St. John, constructed in the 6th century, marks the location of his tomb. (Like Mary, he spent his final years in Ephesus.) Nearby, the Selcuk fortress reflects the period of Byzantine and Ottoman control of the region.
 
From ancient wonders to holy sites, there are few ports in the Mediterranean as magical as Kusadasi, and a day here is a day spent in the company of some of antiquity's greatest figures.
Day 8: Piraeus (Athens), Greece

Arrive: 7:00am | Depart: 5:00pm

No modern metropolis is more steeped in myth than Athens, Greece. From the gritty port of Piraeus—gateway to Greece’s fabled isles—to the Parthenon—eternal symbol of Western civilization—Athens has attracted adventurers and classicists for centuries. This heritage is still very much alive for modern visitors sightseeing in Athens: ancient stadiums and temples dwell alongside apartment blocks, modern performances are staged in the marble amphitheatres where Greek drama was born and millennia-old monuments are scattered in the archaeological park that circles the Acropolis.
 
One of the world’s oldest maritime powers, Athens is blessed with a balmy climate and stunning coastline. The seaside suburbs of Athens are scalloped with sandy beaches, fancy yacht clubs and glamorous beach bars. While the Athenian lifestyle is known for late-night dinners and dancing until dawn, the city shines brightly by day in the bustling markets, lively cafés and fascinating museums that illuminate Greece's past and present. Contemplate the magnitude of all that culture and ancient tourist attractions while marvelling at the sun setting into the Aegean or rising over the Acropolis.
Day 9: Day at Sea

Enjoy a variety of onboard experiences at sea.

Day 10: Scenic cruising Bay of Kotor

Cruising only.

Day 11: Kerkira, Nisos Kerkira (Corfu), Greece

Arrive: 8:00am | Depart: 5:00pm

Corfu is the pearl of the Ionian Sea, attracting royalty from across Europe in the 19th century, and modern celebrities from all over the world ever since. The island reflects a triple heritage. As well as being undeniably Greek, the culture and food also show a clear nod towards nearby Italy, particularly Venice, whose fortresses dot the island. The British influence may be unexpected, but as they ruled the island for many years, they have left such surprises in the Mediterranean as cricket and ginger beer. The bustling atmosphere of Corfu Town remains elegant, infused with culture and history. Parts of the rest of the island have been overdeveloped, but there are still great swaths that epitomize why the Greek islands are still regarded as the most beautiful in the world, with white-sand beaches backed by verdant mountains hiding traditional old villages. It is easy to see how Corfu has inspired generations of writers: from Shakespeare, through Edward Lear, to Gerald Durrell. A true gem.

Day 12: Messina, Italy

Arrive: 11:00am | Depart: 6:00pm

Gateway to Mt. Etna, the awe-inspiring and still-active volcano, the seaport of Messina is the third-largest city in Sicily. Known for its fine cathedral, museums and for its rich Sicilian wines, Messina and the surrounding area was also the location for much of the Godfather series of films. An afternoon or a day in Messina can include a drive up to the windswept side of Mt. Etna (hold on to your hat—it is seriously windy here!) or to the shop-lined streets of Taormina. Many stores sell Sicilian ceramics, with colourful hues painted on volcanic earthen pottery, pieces created in the same way that they have been for centuries. Look also for jewellery and crafts made from beautiful black volcanic glass, collected from the slopes of Etna.
 
Don’t miss a chance to taste the wines of the region, which are gaining fame worldwide for their rich body and incomparable flavour. The 62-acre San Michele Estate, within driving distance of the port, creates wines that take advantage of the location's unusual, sheltered microclimate and volcanic soil.
Day 12: Cruising Strait of Messina

Cruising only.

Day 12: Evening cruising Stromboli Volcano
Days 13-14: Naples (Pompeii/Amalfi), Italy

Arrive: 8:00am | Depart: 5:00pm

Rising behind the wide curve of its bay with brooding Mount Vesuvius and the deep blue sea as a backdrop, Naples, Italy enjoys a magnificent natural setting. It is the third-largest city in Italy after Rome and Milan, and arguably the most colourful and seductive of them all: Splendour and squalor live side by side in 21st-century Naples, and the mix is intoxicating.
 
Cruise to Naples, home to world-class museums and attractions. Naples has something for everyone - superb restaurants, eclectic shopping, a thriving contemporary art scene and an edgy and vibrant street life. But once you’ve had enough of the pounding traffic and jostling crowds while sightseeing in Naples, there are endless opportunities for exploration further afield. The celebrated Roman ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, both victims of Vesuvius’ devastating 79 C.E. eruption, lie just south of the city. Explore Naples' history or take a short ride over to the island of Capri on a Naples shore excursion. The delightful town of Sorrento and the magnificent scenery of the Amalfi Coast are also within easy reach, and the dolce vita glamour of Capri—not to mention the healing thermal waters of Ischia—are a short hydrofoil hop from the mainland. Naples cruises offer a perfect mix of cultural and natural attractions.
Day 15: Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy

Arrives: 7:00am

When you embark on a cruise to Rome with Holland America Line you experience its bustling modernism along with its rich history. You can walk in the footsteps of emperors, have coffee in Renaissance piazzas and see contemporary art all in one afternoon. Your sightseeing time in Rome begins at the nearby port of Civitavecchia, a seaside town with roots that stretch back to the Etruscan era. Take note of the Forte Michelangelo (both Bramante and Michelangelo had a hand in its design), and the lungomare, a lively stretch along the sea with beach clubs, bars and restaurants.
 
Once in the Eternal City you can fill your day with museums, churches, archaeological sites, traditional trattorias, artisan shops and, of course, gelato. The Colosseum and the Vatican Museums are Rome's superstar attractions, but there are plenty of quieter gems to explore. For food lovers there are the markets in Campo de' Fiori or the slightly farther flung Testaccio. The hip neighbourhood of Monti, next to the Colosseum, has a vibrant piazza scene and boutique shopping, while the Villa Borghese offers a green oasis with a view towards Saint Peter’s Basilica and the masterpiece-filled Galleria Borghese. Although Rome might not have been built in one day, you'll certainly be able to see its highlights on our Rome cruises along with the top things to do there in 24 hours.
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Operator
Holland America

At Holland America Line, we believe travel has the power to change the world. We consider it our higher purpose to help make the world a better place through opening minds, building connections, and inspiring a shared humanity. For 150 years, Holland America Line has been a recognized leader in cruising. If you are looking for some of the most spacious and comfortable ships at sea, award-winning service, exquisite dining, extensive activities and enrichment programs and compelling worldwide itineraries, you've come to the right place.

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Please note: We are proud to be an independent agent to travel providers of hotels, flights and other related services. We are not a tour operator. Details and information on the offer are provided by 3rd party businesses and although we do our best to verify the information, we cannot guarantee its accuracy on all occasions. These offers are not available in conjunction with any other offer unless otherwise stated. Pricing and availability are subject to change without notice. For more information, please see Terms of Use
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