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18 Jul 2012
Mediterranean Collectors' Voyage Cruise
Nieuw Amsterdam - 24 nights ex Venice, Italy
Past Sailing
Be spoiled on the Nieuw Amsterdam enjoying 24 unforgettable nights on the Mediterranean Collectors' Voyage Cruise exploring Europe - Mediterranean. Your ship sails from Venice and visits 17 ports in 6 countries before finishing at Barcelona. This 4.5 star voyage from Holland America Line has forward departures, but is unfortunately sold out for this departure.
| Day | Date | Port of call | Arrival | Departure |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Wed 18 Jul 2012 | Venice, Italy | overnight | |
 Located at the head of the Adriatic Sea between the mouths of the Piave and Po Rivers, an intricate web of 117 tiny islands and canals make up the enchanting city of Venice in Italy. Considered to be an extremely beautiful and romantic destination it is not surprising that Venice has played an important role in the history of symphonic and operatic music.
One must take a gondola ride along some of the over 150 canals, especially the most famous Grand Canal, to enjoy seeing some of the 400 bridges (don't miss the most famous Rialto bridge in the heart of the city) and the glorious renaissance architecture with its panorama of superbly detailed facades. The city's small traffic-free, winding cobblestone streets along the canals make for great walking. Be sure to visit the island of Murano that is renowned for its Venetian glass. Also be on the lookout in your walks for the beautiful marbled paper, watercolours of Venetian scenes, carnival masks and quality lace that provide great mementos of your visit. Venice Highlights would, perhaps firstly, include St.Mark's Square. Enjoy walking around and absorbing the atmosphere, but be aware that you will pay top price if you sit at an outdoor table. Visit the beautiful Saint Mark's Basilica, which blends the architecture of the East and the West. To avoid the crowds, take a tour of the Doge's Palace, the most impressive building in Venice, and the Galleria del'Accademia, one of Italy's best museums. This truly is a city that will ever remain with you! more/less... |
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| 2 | Thu 19 Jul 2012 | Venice, Italy | 2.00pm | |
| Located at the head of the Adriatic Sea between the mouths of the Piave and Po Rivers, an intricate web of 117 tiny islands and canals make up the enchanting city of Venice in Italy. Considered to be an extremely beautiful and romantic destination it is not surprising that Venice has played an important role in the history of symphonic and operatic music.
One must take a gondola ride along some of the over 150 canals, especially the most famous Grand Canal, to enjoy seeing some of the 400 bridges (don't miss the most famous Rialto bridge in the heart of the city) and the glorious renaissance architecture with its panorama of superbly detailed facades. The city's small traffic-free, winding cobblestone streets along the canals make for great walking. Be sure to visit the island of Murano that is renowned for its Venetian glass. Also be on the lookout in your walks for the beautiful marbled paper, watercolours of Venetian scenes, carnival masks and quality lace that provide great mementos of your visit. Venice Highlights would, perhaps firstly, include St.Mark's Square. Enjoy walking around and absorbing the atmosphere, but be aware that you will pay top price if you sit at an outdoor table. Visit the beautiful Saint Mark's Basilica, which blends the architecture of the East and the West. To avoid the crowds, take a tour of the Doge's Palace, the most impressive building in Venice, and the Galleria del'Accademia, one of Italy's best museums. This truly is a city that will ever remain with you! more/less... |
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| 3 | Fri 20 Jul 2012 | Kotor, Montenegro | 11.00am | 5.00pm |
 Located along one of Montenegro's most beautiful bays is picturesque Kotor, with its well preserved old town - surrounded by an impressive city wall - nestling at the head of southern Europe’s deepest fjord, is a well preserved town typical of the middle Ages built between the 12th and 14th century. Medieval architecture and numerous monuments of cultural heritage have made Kotor a UNESCO listed World Natural and Historical Heritage Site. Indeed the amazing Kotor City Walls seem to beckon visitors.
Old Town, lying under the lee of a mountain, is a labyrinth of cobbled laneways linking small squares containing ancient churches such as the gleaming white St Tryphon Cathedral, and former aristocratic mansions. Museums, such as the Maritime Museum, are packed with valuable, ancient artefacts that reflect the city’s stormy history. Architecture around Kotor provides evidence of a dozen cultures spanning a dozen centuries, and even the modern shopping centre Kamelija Kotor combines traditional and modern features. If time permits, visit Perast a small nearby dity with beautiful buildings from the 17th and 18th centuries, a church built on an artificial island, as well as numerous sacred monuments, is a delight to visit. Then there is Risan the oldest city of the Bay of Kotor ooriginating from the 3rd century BCwith Roman palaces built with the best Greek marble and decorated with magnificent sculptures and mosaics. Truly all these cities reveal the taste of the true spirit of Montenegro’s stunningly beautiful coast. more/less... |
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| 4 | Sat 21 Jul 2012 | At Sea | ||
| 5 | Sun 22 Jul 2012 | Athens, Greece | 8.00am | 5.00pm |
 Athens, the capital and largest city of Greece, is also one of the world's oldest cities with an unparalleled history that spans around 3,400 years. Experiencing long periods of sunshine throughout the year, and known as "the cradle of Western civilisation", it is a 'must-see' destination for world travellers!
The city of Athens contains a fascinating variety of different architectural styles, ranging from Greco-Roman through Neo-Classical, to Modern. They are usually all found together in the same areas, as a walk through the old neighbourhoods of the famous historic triangle, will reveal. All this, together with luxurious department stores, small intimate shops, fancy restaurants and traditional taverns ensure a delightful visit. The Acropolis hill, or the "Sacred Rock" of Athens, is one of the most recognisable monuments of the world. It includes the glorious marble structures of the Parthenon built in honour of Athena, the patron goddess of the city, the monumental entrances to the sacred area called the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike dedicated to the winged maidens who attended to her, and the Erechtheion "Porch of the Maiden". The Byzantine, Archaeological and Historical Museums, the Municipal Gallery, and the Athens Concert Hall are among many other sites worth viewing. Numerous tours are available, or you could hire a car, but above all, enjoy the proud ancient heritage of the 'High City', as ancient Athens was once called. more/less... |
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| 6 | Mon 23 Jul 2012 | Dardanelles, Turkey | ||
 The Dardanelles is a narrow strait in NW Turkey connecting the Aegean Sea to the Sea of Marmara. Like the Bosphorus, it separates Europe and the mainland of Asia. Of great strategic importance, it was crossed by Alexander the Great in 334 BC, was part of the Byzantine Empire until the 14th century, and was the scene of an Allied campaign in WWI.
Along its sixty kilometre length lie many major ports, including Canakkale, as well as many famous historical castles. The strait is also rich with legend, such as the legend of the mythical princess Helle who gave the straits the ancient name of Hellespont. A visit to Troy to see the famed wooden horse and the nearby ruins is of great interest to many, as is a visit the Gallipoli Peninsula, a battleground of profound significance that evokes so many individual emotions, particularly on reading the wording of the memorial monuments in these now beautiful parks. The Dardanelles surely hold a wealth of information. more/less... |
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| 6 | Mon 23 Jul 2012 | Istanbul, Turkey | 4.00pm | overnight |
 Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey and the fifth largest city proper in the world. It has dominated the Straits of Bosphorus, in the NW of the country, for 25 centuries, and as Constantinople was the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire. It was a metropolis of stunning splendour when the great capitals of Europe were mere villages and is the only metropolis in the world that is situated on two continents.
The influence of Asia and Europe, the religion of Christians and Muslims, and the culture of Turks, Persians and Asians have all found their way into the daily life of this bustling metropolis. As a result there are many historical structures which reflect the heart and soul of Istanbul. With buildings dating back to 408 BC (such as the Maiden's Tower), through numerous time periods and subsequent buildings including places of worship, the Column of Constantine, the Ottoman castles, and up to the grandiose embassy buildings of today, we are presented with an intriguing architectural experience! There are also numerous historic shopping centres such as Cevahir Mall, the largest Mall in Europe, and a broad range of Turkish, European, and Far Eastern restaurants. It can be appreciated why tourists are keen to visit this truly unique city! Available tours include a One Day Sightseeing Tour that a perfect introduction to the fabled city, the City hop-on hop-off ninety-minute bus tour, and Istanbul by night, which means floodlit mosques, a fabulous Turkish dinner and a spectacular floor-show with bejewelled belly dancers. Additionally, visit the museums, enjoy the Egyptian Bazaar, visit Gallipoli, or enjoy the increasing contemporary activities such as cultural concerts at historical sites. It all helps to understand Istanbul's reputation for being a cultural and ethnic melting pot. more/less... |
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| 7 | Tue 24 Jul 2012 | Istanbul, Turkey | 5.00pm | |
| Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey and the fifth largest city proper in the world. It has dominated the Straits of Bosphorus, in the NW of the country, for 25 centuries, and as Constantinople was the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire. It was a metropolis of stunning splendour when the great capitals of Europe were mere villages and is the only metropolis in the world that is situated on two continents.
The influence of Asia and Europe, the religion of Christians and Muslims, and the culture of Turks, Persians and Asians have all found their way into the daily life of this bustling metropolis. As a result there are many historical structures which reflect the heart and soul of Istanbul. With buildings dating back to 408 BC (such as the Maiden's Tower), through numerous time periods and subsequent buildings including places of worship, the Column of Constantine, the Ottoman castles, and up to the grandiose embassy buildings of today, we are presented with an intriguing architectural experience! There are also numerous historic shopping centres such as Cevahir Mall, the largest Mall in Europe, and a broad range of Turkish, European, and Far Eastern restaurants. It can be appreciated why tourists are keen to visit this truly unique city! Available tours include a One Day Sightseeing Tour that a perfect introduction to the fabled city, the City hop-on hop-off ninety-minute bus tour, and Istanbul by night, which means floodlit mosques, a fabulous Turkish dinner and a spectacular floor-show with bejewelled belly dancers. Additionally, visit the museums, enjoy the Egyptian Bazaar, visit Gallipoli, or enjoy the increasing contemporary activities such as cultural concerts at historical sites. It all helps to understand Istanbul's reputation for being a cultural and ethnic melting pot. more/less... |
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| 8 | Wed 25 Jul 2012 | Mykonos, Greece | 1.00pm | 11.00pm |
 Mykonos, is the principal town of the island of the same name, which is part of the Cyclades, and could well be described as the most sophisticated of the Greek Islands. Visited by innumerable international celebrities - you may even see some enjoying a coffee on the sidewalk -it is not surprising that it is considered by many to be one of the top tourist destinations in the world.
It is also an island with beautiful landscapes, scores of churches, some fascinating monuments, and windmills. Best known for its beautiful sandy golden beaches lapped by transparent waters, there are so many from which to choose. While most of them offer water sports facilities, you may wish to rent a car or a motorbike and search for the one that you consider ideal. There certainly is a huge range from which to choose. Another option is to discover the archaeological island of Delos, one of the most sacred centres of Ancient Greece. A boat tour will uncover many secrets of the past, while you can see for yourself the fantastic display of a life from the third millennium BC onwards. You will never forget this site, which is included in the World's Cultural Heritage, protected by UNESCO. You may even get the opportunity to enjoy the hot springs of Palia Kameni. more/less... |
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| 9 | Thu 26 Jul 2012 | Kusadasi, Turkey | 7.00am | 7.00pm |
 Kusadasi is a resort town on Turkey's Aegean coast and the centre of the seaside district of the same name. While best known as a starting point for visiting Ephesus, once one of the most beautiful cities in the world with a history dating from 3000 BC, there are also a delightful range of activities in town.
Places of interest include the City Walls (of which one gate remains to-day), the peninsula at the end of the bay with its castle and swimming beaches, several aqua parks with wave-pools and white-water slides, Ladies Beach, once segregated but now open to all, and Dilek Peninsula National Park. See all this in a pleasant walk. If visiting in summer take time out for a swim. Scuba diving is a popular activity and a visit to the local markets will provide some interesting bargains. You could visit the Greek island of Samos, just an hour and a quarter away by ferry, or treat yourself to an age-old tradition that is almost impossible to find outside Turkey. Yes, enjoy the delight of a Turkish Bath and be amazed at how clean, smooth and silky your skin is afterward! There's certainly an interesting variety of choices to be had. more/less... |
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| 10 | Fri 27 Jul 2012 | Santorini, Greece | 8.00am | 5.00pm |
 Santorini is a small, circular archipelago of volcanic islands located in the Aegean Sea, about 200 km from Greece's mainland. It is essentially what remains of an enormous volcanic explosion some 3500 years ago, destroying the earliest settlements on what was formerly a single island, and leading to the creation of the current geological caldera.
Take the cable car to view the beautiful panorama of Santorini. The most exotic spot on Santorini is Red Beach. It is a difficult walk, but you can take a water taxi from Kamari or Perissa, and absorb the dramatic colour of the rocks 'spilling' onto the beach. There are tours on offer to visit the beautiful beaches, while many tourists hire cars, scooters, or quad bikes and dune buggies to get off the beaten track. You could even enjoy the amazing experience of mule riding! The volcano is frequently explored, but the three domes can be explored on their own, and if climbed, will provide a view of the larger crater and the ancient lava streams glittering across the landscape. You will find shops selling intricate hand made goods at the capital Fira, and even a winery nearby. You can visit the well-preserved Minoan village of Akrotiri, believed to be part of the legendary lost Atlantis, or travel to the delightful village of nearby Oia. Also worth visiting are the Museums, such as the museum of pre-historic Thira, Imerovigili that provides the best views of the caldera, and the traditional village of Megalochiri. You will soon discover why Santorini is regarded as the most photogenic island of Europe! more/less... |
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| 11 | Sat 28 Jul 2012 | At Sea | ||
| 12 | Sun 29 Jul 2012 | Split, Croatia | 8.00am | 4.00pm |
 Split, in Croatia, is a busy port on the shores of the Mediterranean and has numerous ferries operating to and from nearby islands. It is also a popular tourist resort with beaches and pleasant promenades. Venetian, Gothic and Renaissance houses and several medieval churches add architectural interest. Split is also one of the oldest cities in the area, and is traditionally considered to be 1,700 years old. Not surprisingly In November 1979 UNESCO, in line with the international convention on cultural and natural heritage, adopted a proposal that the historic city of Split should be included in the register of World Cultural Heritage.
A must-see is Diocletians Palace, around which Split is built. The Palace, one of the most famous and complete architectural and cultural features on the Croatian Adriatic coast, is the world's most complete remains of a Roman palace. The ground plan of the palace is an irregular rectangle with towers projecting from the western, northern, and eastern facades. It combines qualities of a luxurious villa with those of a military camp, with its huge gates and watchtowers. The palace is enclosed by walls, and of special interest is the basement of the palace with its amazing barrel vaulted stonework. Also worthy of note are the city’s museums such as the Archaeological Museum - the oldest museum in Croatia, the Split City Museum that is also home to a gallery dedicated to the city’s most important 20th century painter, the historical Croatian Maritime Museum, and the Split Science museum and Zoo, to name but a few, are well worth visiting. There are also several painting galleries such as the Gallery of Fine Arts with works from the 14th century to the present day that are of great interest to many visitors. more/less... |
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| 13 | Mon 30 Jul 2012 | Venice, Italy | 7.00am | overnight |
| Located at the head of the Adriatic Sea between the mouths of the Piave and Po Rivers, an intricate web of 117 tiny islands and canals make up the enchanting city of Venice in Italy. Considered to be an extremely beautiful and romantic destination it is not surprising that Venice has played an important role in the history of symphonic and operatic music.
One must take a gondola ride along some of the over 150 canals, especially the most famous Grand Canal, to enjoy seeing some of the 400 bridges (don't miss the most famous Rialto bridge in the heart of the city) and the glorious renaissance architecture with its panorama of superbly detailed facades. The city's small traffic-free, winding cobblestone streets along the canals make for great walking. Be sure to visit the island of Murano that is renowned for its Venetian glass. Also be on the lookout in your walks for the beautiful marbled paper, watercolours of Venetian scenes, carnival masks and quality lace that provide great mementos of your visit. Venice Highlights would, perhaps firstly, include St.Mark's Square. Enjoy walking around and absorbing the atmosphere, but be aware that you will pay top price if you sit at an outdoor table. Visit the beautiful Saint Mark's Basilica, which blends the architecture of the East and the West. To avoid the crowds, take a tour of the Doge's Palace, the most impressive building in Venice, and the Galleria del'Accademia, one of Italy's best museums. This truly is a city that will ever remain with you! more/less... |
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| 14 | Tue 31 Jul 2012 | Venice, Italy | 1.00pm | |
| Located at the head of the Adriatic Sea between the mouths of the Piave and Po Rivers, an intricate web of 117 tiny islands and canals make up the enchanting city of Venice in Italy. Considered to be an extremely beautiful and romantic destination it is not surprising that Venice has played an important role in the history of symphonic and operatic music.
One must take a gondola ride along some of the over 150 canals, especially the most famous Grand Canal, to enjoy seeing some of the 400 bridges (don't miss the most famous Rialto bridge in the heart of the city) and the glorious renaissance architecture with its panorama of superbly detailed facades. The city's small traffic-free, winding cobblestone streets along the canals make for great walking. Be sure to visit the island of Murano that is renowned for its Venetian glass. Also be on the lookout in your walks for the beautiful marbled paper, watercolours of Venetian scenes, carnival masks and quality lace that provide great mementos of your visit. Venice Highlights would, perhaps firstly, include St.Mark's Square. Enjoy walking around and absorbing the atmosphere, but be aware that you will pay top price if you sit at an outdoor table. Visit the beautiful Saint Mark's Basilica, which blends the architecture of the East and the West. To avoid the crowds, take a tour of the Doge's Palace, the most impressive building in Venice, and the Galleria del'Accademia, one of Italy's best museums. This truly is a city that will ever remain with you! more/less... |
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| 15 | Wed 1 Aug 2012 | Dubrovnik, Croatia | 10.00am | 6.00pm |
 Dubrovnik, a Croatian city on the Adriatic Sea coast is one of the most prominent tourist destinations on the Adriatic. The city of Dubrovnik joined the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites in 1979. An outstanding feature of the Old Town of Dubrovnik are it intact city walls which run uninterrupted for 1940 meters encircling the city. This complex structure, one of the most beautiful and strongest fort systems in the Mediterranean, consists of a series of forts, bastions, casemates, towers and detached forts, originally used to protect the vulnerable city. Few of Dubrovnik's Renaissance buildings survived the earthquake of 1667, but fortunately enough remain to preserve the legacy of a glorious past.
The finest Renaissance highlight is the Sponza Palace that is currently used to house the National Archives, while other important monuments such as the Rectors Palace - now a museum - with its ornate staircase, and the St. Saviour Church, another remnant of the Renaissance period, are all much-visited. The nearby Franciscan Monastery with its amazing library of 30,000 volumes and 1,500 valuable handwritten documents along with other outstanding exhibits. Another ‘must-see’ is Dubrovnik's most beloved church St Blaise, while other religious buildings including the baroque Cathedral with its historical relics, and the city's Dominican Monastery that resembles a fortress, but the interior contains an art museum and a Gothic-Romanesque church are also worth visiting. It is hard to choose the most romantic restaurants in Dubrovnik because almost all of them have a romantic ambience. In many restaurants you are facing the sea, dining in the outdoors, eating excellent fresh seafood. You may take a trip on the Cable Car, visit some of the lovely local islands, and even take a ride at Kojan Koral with its horseback Riding Stables. There are several museums of great interest such as the Multimedia Museum and War Photo Limited with exhibits that may disturb some but are very educational. There are also a few beaches including Copacabana Beach, a small stony beach part of the Elaphiti Islands, named after the popular beach in Rio de Janeiro! more/less... |
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| 16 | Thu 2 Aug 2012 | Corfu, Greece | 10.00am | 8.00pm |
 Corfu Island, located just off the west coast of Greece, boasts some of the most stunning scenery in the Greek Isles. With its impressive landscapes, rich vegetation, long golden beaches, the elegant capital Corfu Town, and many traditional villages, it is not surprising that this island receives many visitors each year.
The capital is possibly most impressive, due to the Venetian, French and English civilisations that are remembered for the architectural elements they have left behind. Be sure to visit the Achillion Palace with its picturesque gardens overlooking Corfu Town, and at least one of the many Greek churches and monasteries. The island has a great variety of excellent beaches, but if you want more than water sports, hire a car and visit the 1,000 m high Mount Pantokrator and enjoy the breathtaking views, and visit the old town of Kerkyra. Other places to be visited include Old Perithia (a deserted village), Paleokastrista, (the island's most treasured beauty spot), or if you have children, Aqualand. Above all be sure to eat at one of the restaurants, as Corfu is all about food and wine. After all, to the Greek people, 'eating is life itself'. more/less... |
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| 17 | Fri 3 Aug 2012 | Argostoli, Greece | 7.00am | 4.00pm |
 Argostoli is the capital of the island of Kefalonia, the largest of the Greek Ionian Islands. Its neo-classical buildings blend with a modern city which has a remarkable historic and cultural tradition, despite the fact that it was devastated by an earthquake in 1953.
The golden sandy beaches lapped by beautiful blue sea, fascinating caves, the rocky mountains and traditional island settlements, joined with a unique sense of liveliness, make this a great tourist destination. The island also boasts archaeological areas and impressive historical monuments. Argostoli itself has an attractive main square, the Platia, which has plenty of bars and tavernas where you can join the locals, while you relax and watch the world go by. Other attractions in Argostoli include the bridge of Drapanos that links the town to the opposite coast, the Koutavos lagoon, the Lighthouse of Agii Theodori, the dramatic caves at Ddrogarati, the amazingly blue underground lake at Mellisani, and the pretty Assos village. There truly is a wealth of experiences to be enjoyed. more/less... |
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| 18 | Sat 4 Aug 2012 | Santorini, Greece | 11.00am | 7.00pm |
| Santorini is a small, circular archipelago of volcanic islands located in the Aegean Sea, about 200 km from Greece's mainland. It is essentially what remains of an enormous volcanic explosion some 3500 years ago, destroying the earliest settlements on what was formerly a single island, and leading to the creation of the current geological caldera.
Take the cable car to view the beautiful panorama of Santorini. The most exotic spot on Santorini is Red Beach. It is a difficult walk, but you can take a water taxi from Kamari or Perissa, and absorb the dramatic colour of the rocks 'spilling' onto the beach. There are tours on offer to visit the beautiful beaches, while many tourists hire cars, scooters, or quad bikes and dune buggies to get off the beaten track. You could even enjoy the amazing experience of mule riding! The volcano is frequently explored, but the three domes can be explored on their own, and if climbed, will provide a view of the larger crater and the ancient lava streams glittering across the landscape. You will find shops selling intricate hand made goods at the capital Fira, and even a winery nearby. You can visit the well-preserved Minoan village of Akrotiri, believed to be part of the legendary lost Atlantis, or travel to the delightful village of nearby Oia. Also worth visiting are the Museums, such as the museum of pre-historic Thira, Imerovigili that provides the best views of the caldera, and the traditional village of Megalochiri. You will soon discover why Santorini is regarded as the most photogenic island of Europe! more/less... |
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| 19 | Sun 5 Aug 2012 | At Sea | ||
| 20 | Mon 6 Aug 2012 | Catania, Italy | 8.00am | 5.00pm |
 Catania, the second largest city in Sicily, lies in the middle of the Ionian coast. It is a lively energetic place with an international outlook. At its backdrop is the famous Mt. Etna, which has certainly left its mark on the city, with its inevitable black-grey volcanic stone ever evident in pavements and buildings.
Be sure to visit the Bellini Theatre, named after the locally born opera composer, built at the end of the nineteenth century. Its exterior in the remarkable Sicilian Baroque style and its extravagant interior will long be remembered. Also worth visiting are the church of Santa Maria della Rotonda, the lava and marble Roman Amphitheatre that dates back to the second century AD, the Odeon, a smaller auditorium, and the Museo Civico. Undoubtedly, for many, the greatest attraction is the opportunity to take a volcanic excursion. If you have the time, visit some of the small towns in the National Park, or take the Circumetnea, a small railway line which circles the base of the volcano -with rail connections to town - to appreciate an eerie volcanic landscape with solidified rivers of lava. There are also several high-altitude spots which can be reached either by public transport or by car. Do make the effort. It will be something unique for most travellers. more/less... |
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| 21 | Tue 7 Aug 2012 | Naples, Italy | 8.00am | 6.00pm |
 Naples is a historic city over 2,500 years old, sitting on the west coast of southern Italy by the Gulf of Naples. Located halfway between two volcanic areas, Mount Vesuvius and Camp Flegrei and with numerous tours and cruise excursions available at the port, one may be inclined to miss out on what Naples itself has to offer.
The city is known for its rich history, with art, culture and gastronomy playing an important role throughout much of its existence. The historic centre of the city is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Visit the Garden of Remembrance with its splendid views over the bay and surrounding islands, the great glass-roofed arcade of the Galleria Umberto I, the Piazza della Borsa, and for an alternative view of this Italian city, visit the Piazza del Gesu Nuovo, with its collection of colourful and random monuments. Naples hosts a wealth of historical museums, indeed some of the most important in Italy. The Naples National Archaeological Museum is one of the main museums, considered one of the most important for artefacts of the Roman Empire in the world, while visits to the historic Castel Nuovo, and the Palazzo Reale,are of great architectural interest. An interesting feature is the cable cars that provide great views and an effective method of getting around town. You are sure to enjoy the famous guitar and mandolin music while absorbing the culture, and don't forget to taste the famous Pizzas. more/less... |
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| 22 | Wed 8 Aug 2012 | Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy | 7.00am | 8.00pm |
 Rome, the capital, and largest city of Italy, is full of unending possibilities. It can be reached from the port of Civitavecchia in approximately ninety minutes either by train or coach. If you have already visited Rome, the surrounding countryside offers many fascinating choices, including the picturesque hill towns of Orvieto, Viterbo, and Bagnoreggio which are just an hour away from the port.
Rome greets visitors with a multitude of faces, such as the Ancient City with ruins like the Colosseum, the seven hills, the Roman Forum and the Sacred Way – the path used for triumphal processions. There is Renaissance Rome, full of winding streets and sun-dappled piazzas, and the Vatican, home to the Pope, the Sistine Chapel with Michaelangelo's famous Creation of Adam fresco and his masterpiece, La Pieta, at St. Peter's Cathedral. Art is everywhere, with masterpieces often hidden in tiny, nondescript churches. Organised tours, with strictly controlled numbers, are regarded by many as the ideal way to 'see Rome', as they can result in more prompt access, without lengthy queues. However you can explore Rome at your own pace, perhaps with a city's Roma Pass, on an extensive hop-on hop off itinerary, including 17 stops, through the heart of Rome. You have the choice of a 24 or 48 hours ticket, in especially appointed tourist friendly buses. The 48 hours ticket allows you to add on an interchangeable hop-on hop-off Rome Cruise. Whatever else you do, don't forget to visit the Trevi Fountain, to throw in your coins and make your wishes! more/less... |
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| 23 | Thu 9 Aug 2012 | Livorno, Italy | 7.00am | 8.00pm |
 Livorno is the third largest port on the west coast of Italy and is well known for supporting cruise ship tourism to Florence, the Tower of Pisa, the hill towns of Tuscany, Cinque Terre with its enchanting villages, and the Chianti wine region, generally with time allowed for visiting some famous outlet stores of famous fashion houses.
However the port of Livorno itself has a lot to offer visitors. Criss-crossed by Medicean canals that are still navigable, and with its port overlooked by towers and fortresses, this well-planned city is most appealing. Home to the first bathing establishments in Italy, many still remain along the promenade that stretches for many kilometres between impressive 19th-century buildings, villas in the Liberty style, and the green vegetation consisting of pine trees, tamarisks and oleanders. Local places of interest include the Naval Academy founded n 1881, the city Aquarium, the Museo Mascagnano with its records of famous operas, an old re-bricked fortress that in Medidi times defended the city from attack by pirates, the Natural History Museum of the Mediterranean, and the Terrazza Mascagni that offers a wonderful view of some of the islands of the Tuscan Archipelago. In or out of town, you are sure to have a wonderful time. more/less... |
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| 24 | Fri 10 Aug 2012 | At Sea | ||
| 25 | Sat 11 Aug 2012 | Barcelona, Spain | 7.00am | |
 Barcelona located in Catalonia Spain, is Europe's largest metropolis on the Mediterranean coast, and one of the world’s major global cities. Today, Barcelona balances itself on the cutting edge of architecture, intellectual life, and style. Indeed Barcelona won the 1999 RIBA Royal Gold Medal for its architecture, the first time that the winner has been a city, and not an individual architect.
The ‘Gothic Quarter’ is the centre of the old city of Barcelona, where many of the buildings date as far back as the Roman settlement of the Romans. The Art Nouveau architectural style has also left an important legacy in Barcelona with a great number of these buildings listed as World Heritage Sites. An outstanding example of this is the immense, remarkable, but still unfinished church of the Sagrada Família, which has been under construction since 1882, with completion planned for 2026. There are far too many famous attractions, for all to be listed, however a few of the most popular include the Barcelona Aquarium, with the IMAX cinema right next door, the Spanish Village that is home to replicate styles of houses from different parts of Spain as well as fascinating traditionally made Spanish goods, and for football fanatics the Barcelona FC football museum cannot be missed. Add to this the Picasso Museum with his paintings displayed in alphabetical order, the Zoo, the National Museum of Art of Catalunya, and the Magic fountain on Montjuic and one realises that this city with its old world attraction, will not disappoint. more/less... |
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Until September 2013 Nieuw Amsterdam sails the Mediterranean out of Venice and Barcelona. These itineraries are port intensive for maximum on shore activities. She stays overnight in Venice and Istanbul, which allows for much better on-shore touring. In October 2013 take a low-fare tour of the eastern Mediterranean, then an Atlantic crossing, from Barcelona to Fort Lauderdale. Based in Fort Lauderdale, she will offer 7-night cruises 10 the eastern and western Caribbean. Hallmarks of HAL include spacious staterooms and public areas, rich timber furnishings set with museum-quality paintings and antiques, discreet personal service, and artful itineraries that allow for overnights in key cities. Holland America Line arranges excellent onshore tours, and pre- and post-tour packages.
Accommodation
Of the staterooms, 85% have an outside view, and of these four-fifths have a private balcony. Staterooms are spacious, and include: Interior large and standard; Ocean-view, some with panoramic windows; and three levels of suites – Verandah, Deluxe Verandah, and Penthouse Verandah. Basic features include a flat-panel TV and DVD player (book your DVDs by phone), ample storage, personal safe, excellent twin/queen bedding and bath amenities, fresh fruit on request, and nightly turndown service. The décor is very pleasing and comfortable. Complimentary meals can be ordered for in-suite dining around the clock. Triple and quad cabins are available, as well as interconnecting cabins for up to six guests. Many staterooms are modified accessible and wheelchair accessible. There are no single cabins.
Food and Dining
The ship has seven formal to casual dining areas. The two-deck main Dining Room serves open- The ship has seven formal to casual dining areas. The two-deck main Dining Room serves open-seating breakfast and lunch. For dinner chose between set-seating at first or second servings, or open seating on the upper deck. The Master Chefs’ three-course menus are excellent, and waiting staff are friendly Indonesian and Filipino stewards. Ask for a table for 2/4/6/8. Special dietary requests can be ordered pre-cruise. Two nights in seven are formal nights, perhaps preceded with pre-dinner drinks, then after your meal retire to the Show Lounge or a musical recital. There are three alternative restaurants, all best to reserve in advance: The Pinnacle Grill for steaks and seafood, the renowned Asian-themed Tamarind offers cuisine from across SE and E Asia, and the (no service charge) Italian-American-influenced Canaletto. Ask about wine packages.
Entertainment
At night the two-deck Vista Show Lounge offers (twice nightly) musical productions, cabaret, and its features include three video screens. Alternatively, attend a musical recital in one of the lounges, dance to the backing of a band ensemble, watch sport in the multi-screen sports bar, or sip drinks while your request is sung by the pianist or guitarist. View recent movies in the Screening Room, unless you’d prefer to watch your choice of DVD in your cabin. Through the evening the disco and nightclub on the top deck will take you into the early hours of the morning, very inviting if the new day is a Sea Day and you’ve ordered breakfast in your cabin. The large casino has lots of playing options.
Welcome to our Roll Call forum for Nieuw Amsterdam's "Mediterranean Collectors' Voyage Cruise" departing 18 Jul 2012. Here you can meet fellow cruisers, swap ideas, plan tours, share with others and make friends before you even leave!
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Cruise summary
Cruise: Mediterranean Collectors' Voyage Cruise
Duration: 24 nights
Ship: Nieuw Amsterdam
Star rating: 
Departs: Venice
Returns: Barcelona
Ports of call: 17
Forward departures:
What's onboard? ▼
- Staterooms
- Atrium social centre
- Art collections
- Shops duty free
- DINING
- Dining venues (7)
- Traditional & As You Wish
- In-room dining 24 h
- Formal dining nights
- Master Chef’s Room
- Late night chocolate, snacks
- Ice cream bar
- Wine packages
- Afternoon tea, High Tea
- Lounges and bars
- ENTERTAINMENT
- Show Theatre
- Cinema
- Nightclub, music, dancing
- Casino
- ACTIVITIES
- Pools (3)
- Sliding deck pool roof
- Whirlpools (5)
- Sauna, steam rooms
- Fitness Centre
- Classes, walking, jogging
- Spa & Salon
- Enrichment presentations
- Digital Workshop
- Culinary Arts Centre
- Sports court, table games
- Photo gallery
- Shore excursion desk
- Pre/post cruise tours
- Wedding packages (value!)
- Library
- Single guests program (most)
- UNDER 18
- Club HAL (3-7, 8-12, 13-17 y)
- OTHER
- Medical centre
- Laundry dry-cleaning (pay)
- Special dietary requests
- Internet, Wi-Fi (pay)
- Mobile phone roaming
- Telephone, fax ship-shore
- 110/220V power
- Wheelchair access
- Daily newsletter
What's included? ▼
- Accommodation as booked
- Flight/s and/or transfers as specified
- All main meals on-board
- Open/anytime or traditional/set time & multi-venue dining
- In-cabin dining at no charge
- Use of ship facilities - indoor & outdoor
- Entertainment - live music and/or shows, movies
- Activities - organised & individual
- Bridge director on select cruises
- Kids clubs & teen programs (3-17 yrs) (Prinsendam 5-17 yrs)
- Cruise Director & all English speaking staff
- Special needs requests & service animals allowed
- Ship-shore-ship transfers
What's excluded? ▼
- Airfares, accommodation & transfers not specified
- Shore & land excursions and meals not specified
- Alternate specialty dining venues (unless specified)
- Casino gaming, bar expenses
- Passport & visa fees
- Insurances of all kinds
- Increases in third party charges or taxes
- Customary land tour gratuities are welcome
- Service charge: USD 11.50 pp/night (suites USD 12). Adjust wth Guest Relations Manager if service inadequate
- Service charge: bar and Dining Room wine 15%
- Items & services of a personal nature
- Medical services, vaccination costs
- Laundry and/or valet charges
- Wi-Fi, Internet, satellite/mobile phone & fax charges
Recent testimonials
"We were more than satisfied with the service we received from your agency everything was organized well. The P&O cruise itself was absolutely wonderful and thank you for your service and support."
Keith & Moira from Newcastle
"Thanks again for your great service and attention to detail, and all the information given to us prior to the cruise. I will certainly choose to use you again for any future holiday plans. "
Connie B from Melbourne
"We had a great time on the Pacific Dawn cruise. We met some terrific people at our dinner table and became good friends.Thank you once more for the excellent service you provided to us. It ensured our cruise went very smoothly."
Darryl & Margaret from Brisbane