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3 Nov 2012
Holy Land Egypt & Italy Cruise
Seabourn Quest - 14 nights ex Athens, Greece
Past Sailing
Be spoiled on the Seabourn Quest experiencing 14 unforgettable nights on the Holy Land Egypt & Italy Cruise through the waters of Europe - Mediterranean. The voyage starts out from Athens and visits 12 ports in 7 countries before finishing at Rome (Civitavecchia). This 5 star voyage from Seabourn Cruise Line has forward departures, but is unfortunately sold out for this departure.
| Day | Date | Port of call | Arrival | Departure |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sat 3 Nov 2012 | Athens, Greece | 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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| 2 | Sun 4 Nov 2012 | Kusadasi, Turkey | 8.00am | 6.00pm |
 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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| 3 | Mon 5 Nov 2012 | Rhodes, Greece | 8.00am | 5.00pm |
 Rhodes is the principal city of the island of the same name, situated in the Aegean Sea. It is renowned for having the longest summer of any of the Greek islands. It is famous for being the site of Colossus of Rhodes - one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World - as well as being the home of the Citadel of Rhodes, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for being one of the best preserved medieval towns in Europe.
The capital itself is very beautiful. Explore the Old Town and visit the castle of the Grand Master - famed for its superb mosaic floors - walk on the Road of the Knights, visit the Castle of the Knights, and simply soak in the atmosphere. Climb the hill of Monte Smith and enjoy the panoramic view of the Mandraki area, and then visit its harbour where you can see the two famous bronze deer that stand where the colossus of Rhodes once stood. Other places of interest are the white town of Lindos with its amazing acropolis ruins, the healing baths of Kallithea, some of the picturesque villages, the ruins of Kamiros, the monastery of Filerimos, and the Valley of the Butterflies. The island certainly has some of the best beaches, archaeological sites, shops and restaurants in Greece. more/less... |
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| 4 | Tue 6 Nov 2012 | Alanya, Turkey | 8.00am | 5.00pm |
 Alanya, 115 km east of Antalya, is a seaside resort in the Mediterranean region of Turkey. In the summer tourist season, it is inundated with visitors due to its mild climate, long stretches of sandy beaches, the warm Mediterranean waters, and the port's accessibility to historic sites and fine cuisine.
Visit these landmarks – the vast Seljuk Turkish fortress that overlooks the town from a promontory, Kizil Kule with its the tall octagonal Red Tower, Alanya Castle, Tersane, the ship-yard, the Damlatas Cave, which is said to benefit asthma sufferers, and the beaches, which are the biggest attraction, with tourist activities that include wind surfing, parasailing and banana boating. If interested in archaeology, then be sure to visit the Alanya Museum, while many national celebrations are centred at Mustafa Kemal Ataturk monument. Attractions also include Sealanya (Europe's largest water park), and Turkey's largest go-kart track. If you are looking for a more relaxed visit, then you will thoroughly appreciate a relaxed half-hour drive to the pine-forested Taurus Mountains, for its spectacular views as well as the atmosphere of small rural villages where life continues much as it always has. It's your choice. more/less... |
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| 5 | Wed 7 Nov 2012 | Larnaca, Cyprus | 8.00am | 6.00pm |
 Lanarka is a picturesque port and tourist resort on the SE coast of Cyprus. From Biblical times Cyprus and this port (Kition) were famed for building ships (‘the ships of Kittim’) for both war and commerce. Modern Larnaca’s 200-berth marina is set in an attractive harbour lined with palm trees. Seafood restaurants abound with multiple courses of local delicacies.
The most important site here is the ruins of Ancient Kitium. The area has been subject to rule by at least ten ancient civilisations due to its port and richness of minerals. Today the 'Phinikoudes' is Larnaca's main tourist attraction - a strip of cafes, bars, clubs and restaurants on the beach front. Points of interest include the seafront Fort of Lanarca alongside the Grand Mosque, the Choirokoitia Neolithic Settlement, the Pierides Foundation Archaeological Museum by the Terra Santa Convent, the Church of Lazarus, and the Mosque of Umm Haram. To the west of town is the distinctive Lanarca Salt Lake and its migratory bird population (flamingos November to March). more/less... |
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| 6 | Thu 8 Nov 2012 | Haifa, Israel | 7.00am | 11.00pm |
 Israel’s third largest city and one of its prettiest, Haifa is situated on the Israeli Mediterranean Coastal Plain, the historic land bridge between Europe, Africa, and Asia. The city is split over three tiers. The lowest is the centre of commerce and industry including the Port of Haifa, the middle level on the slopes of Mount Carmel consists of older residential neighborhoods, while the upper level is known for its modern neighborhoods. From here there are some fascinating views. Also to be enjoyed are the 17 km of beaches.
The main tourist attraction is the Bahai World Centre, with the golden-domed Shrine of the Bab and the surrounding gardens. In 2008, the Bahai gardens were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The restored German Colony with some of the old Templer homes restored and even turned into cafes, boutiques and restaurants, Stella Maris the Carmelite Monastery and Elijah's Cave also draw many tourists. There are also several museums to be visited, such as the Tikotin Museum of Japanese Art that is the only museum in the Middle East dedicated solely to Japanese art. more/less... |
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| 7 | Fri 9 Nov 2012 | Ashdod, Israel | 7.00am | 11.00pm |
 Ashdod - aka Isdud - is a city on the Mediterranean Sea coast in the South District of Israel, approximately 70 km from Jerusalem and Beer Sheba. It is a major industrial center and Israel's largest port, accounting for over half the country's seaborn trade.
The first documented settlement in Ashdod dates to the Canaanite culture of 17th century BC, making it one of the most ancient cities in the world. Ashdod is mentioned thirteen times in the Bible, and over time the city was settled by Philistines, Israelites, Byzantines, Crusaders and Arabs. There is much history to be found, with human settlement dating from the Paleolithic Age. The Korin Maman Museum has a permanent archeology exhibition called "Philistian World" as well as various changing art exhibitions. Ashdod's beaches are a venue for water sports with windsurfing, yachting, and SCUBA diving operating in the Marina area. more/less... |
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| 8 | Sat 10 Nov 2012 | At Sea | ||
| 9 | Sun 11 Nov 2012 | Alexandria, Egypt | 7.00am | 11.00pm |
 Alexandria, Egypt’s largest seaport, was originally founded by Alexander the Great in 331 B.C. Extending about 32 km along the Mediterranean coast it has become an important tourist resort. Indeed, known as The Pearl of the Mediterranean, Alexandria has an atmosphere that is more Mediterranean than Middle Eastern. Its ambience and cultural heritage distance it from the rest of the country, although it is actually only 225 km from Cairo.
The city's monumental highlights include the Roman Theatre and Villa of Birds at Kom el-Dikka and the spooky Catacombs of Kom es-Shoqafa that are musts, as is the city's magnificent new library and the Alexandria National Museum, exhibiting statues and other artefacts dredged from ancient cities on the seabed. If possible take a 15 km trip along the coast to visit Montazah Palace/castle primarily to enjoy the beautifully landscaped grounds and the delightful swimming pools right next to the ocean. Historical monuments such as the Citadel of Qaitbay built of the exact site of the famous Lighthouse of Alexandria, Pompey’s Pillar surrounded by other ruins and sculptures, and the ancient Cemetry of Mostafa Kamel with beautifully decorated tombs in excellent condition to name a few, are also very popular attractions. Not to be forgotten is the Roman Theatre of the 2nd century AD, that is an amphitheatre with 13 semicircular tiers made of white and gray marble, with marble seats for up to 800 spectators, galleries and sections of mosaic-flooring. more/less... |
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| 10 | Mon 12 Nov 2012 | At Sea | ||
| 11 | Tue 13 Nov 2012 | At Sea | ||
| 12 | Wed 14 Nov 2012 | Valletta, Malta | 8.00am | 5.00pm |
 Valletta (aka Belt Valletta, Città Umilissima) - traditionally reserved for the historic walled citadel that serves as Malta's principal administrative district - is the capital city of Malta, located in the central-eastern portion of the island. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is essentially Baroque in style, with elements of Mannerist, Neo-Classical and Modern architecture in selected areas, and is nothing short of an open-air museum, yes - living history!
Dotted with quaint cafes and wine bars, the city itself is today one of Malta’s main tourist attractions, being home to, among others, the majestic St John’s Co-Cathedral, with its imposing bastions and a treasure of priceless paintings. The city also provides a stunning snapshot of Malta’s Grand Harbour, often described as the most beautiful in the Mediterranean. Also appreciate the delightful Upper Barrakka Gardens, visit Fort Elmo, and the ancient ruins of Mnajdra Megalithic Temples. Other fascinating places to be appreciated are the churches such as the Church of Saint Paul’s Shipwreck, fascinating Museums including the National Museums of Fine Arts, and of Archaeology the Lacaris War Rooms, as well as excellent story-telling at the Mannequin Museum of the Knights. Rather different but amazingly informative are a series of theatres like, Valletta Living History, the Manoel Theatre, and a documentary - The Malta Experience, that all provide fascinating historical backgrounds for this port. To relax, visit the magnificent Hastings Gardens. . more/less... |
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| 13 | Thu 15 Nov 2012 | Trapani, Italy | 8.00am | 5.00pm |
 Trapani is a city and commune on the west coast of Sicily in Italy. It is a fishing and ferry port with a long history. Nowadays it is renowned for its fine seafood and Sicilian culture. It is the medieval phase of the town's past which is most evident in the old town.
As there are no remains of the ancient city, the historic buildings are of the Baroque style and include many 14th to 16th century churches. The Cathedral which was restored in the eighteenth century, the magnificent Madonna of Trapani with its famed statue and with the museum of Agostino Pepoli, and the wonderful Baroque Palazzo della Giudecca or Casa Ciambra are all sights very well worth visiting. Enjoy the beaches, especially the ones at Marausa, just 9km south of the city. Take the cable car ride to the medieval walled hill-town Erice on Monte Erice, and enjoy the views, not only of the cobbled streets and medieval castle, as on a clear day there are views of Tunisia and Africa! There is a great deal to be enjoyed at this destination. more/less... |
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| 14 | Fri 16 Nov 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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| 15 | Sat 17 Nov 2012 | Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy | 7.00am | |
 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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Until mid-October 2013 10-night cruises reach all parts of the Mediterranean, to many ports not visited by the majority of cruise ships. In late October 2013 cross the Atlantic from Barcelona to Rio de Janeiro, at a very reasonable fare. In December/January 2014 four cruises round South America reaching the (sub-)Antarctic Peninsula, and these can be highly recommended for the amazing scenery – glaciers, fjords, and fascinating ports. Quest’s itineraries are carefully chosen for the experiences they offer. Many ports visited are inaccessible to larger vessels. Onshore tours are far from traditional tourist tracks.
Accommodation
Choose from 225 ocean view suites, 90% with verandas. All accommodation suites are of generous size, bedroom separated from living area, dining table for two, bar replenished daily, the best of electronic entertainment available, and your direct-dial telephone to the outside world. All the appointments are luxurious and hardly need listing. This accommodation is a haven to refresh oneself for the next day’s onshore activities. Personal attention extends from supplying fresh fruit and flowers daily, to canapés and newly-baked pastries on returning from a day ashore. You’ll have a personal suite stewardess.
Food and Dining
Dining is in four five-star dining venues. Open seated dining in The Restaurant is a memorable experience, overseen by celebrity chef Charlie Palmer: award-winning cuisine, regional dishes, many items cooked to order, exotic foods and cheeses, accompanied at your table by ship’s officers. Breakfast and lunch menus here are expansive. The 50-seat Restaurant 2 prepares regional, seasonal cuisine in tasting portions. Seabourn has an all-inclusive complimentary beverage and no-gratuities policy.
Entertainment
Spend two hours dining and chatting with newly-met friends, and you make your own entertainment. The Grand Salon is the venue for small shows, cabaret acts, lectures, cooking demonstrations, movies and some social functions. The stunning Observation Bar is the place for early morning coffee or tea, and evening drinks with piano music in the background. Guests enjoy wine, champagne and spirits in any of the six bars and lounges.
Welcome to our Roll Call forum for Seabourn Quest's "Holy Land Egypt & Italy Cruise" departing 3 Nov 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: Holy Land Egypt & Italy Cruise
Duration: 14 nights
Ship: Seabourn Quest
Star rating: 
Departs: Athens
Returns: Rome (Civitavecchia)
Ports of call: 12
Forward departures:
What's onboard? ▼
- All suite staterooms
- Spa Villas
- Shop/boutique (3)
- DINING
- Dining venues (4)
- Member Chaîne des Rôtisseurs
- In-suite dining
- Special diets (book ahead)
- Lounges, open bars (6)
- ENTERTAINMENT
- Show Lounge (shows, cabaret)
- Live music, dancing
- Onshore tours organised
- Casino
- ACTIVITIES
- Swimming pools (2)
- Whirlpools (6)
- Health spa & salon
- Kinesis Wall
- Fitness centre, classes
- Sun Terrace
- Golf putting (9 holes)
- Marina, watersports
- Computer Centre (pay)
- Enrichment programs
- Port lectures
- Library, card room
- OTHER
- Wheelchair access good
- Wi-Fi, cell phone (pay)
- Medical facility
- Laundrette self-service
- Elevators (3)
- 110V AC power
What's included? ▼
- Accommodation as booked
- Flight/s and/or transfers as specified
- Gratuities - tipping is neither expected nor required
- Gourmet dining with complimentary fine wines, beers, spirits
- Specialty coffee, tea, bottled water, juices & snacks 24 hrs
- Open/anytime seating & multi-venue dining
- Cocktail or champagne reception
- In-cabin dining at no charge
- Open bar - premium beers, wines, spirits, soft-drinks
- Stocked in-suite bar & refrigerator at no charge
- Use of ship facilities - indoor & outdoor
- Entertainment - live music and/or shows, movies
- Activities - organised & individual
- Specialty lectures, workshops, classes & programs
- Fitness and/or yoga, gym classes
- Cruise Director & all English speaking staff
- Concierge service
- Destination seminars and/or lectures
- Ship-shore-ship transfers
- Internet access & Wi-Fi in cabin (top suites complimentary)
What's excluded? ▼
- Airfares, accommodation & transfers not specified
- Shore & land excursions and meals not specified
- Casino gaming
- Passport & visa fees
- Insurances of all kinds
- Increases in third party charges or taxes
- Customary land tour gratuities are welcome
- 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
"The trip was just fantastic! We loved it and highly recommend the Pacific Sun to anyone who wants a fun time. Thanks for your help booking the cruise and we will be be back soon for our next cruise."
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Margaret from NSW
"Thanks Jane, you've been amazing and made my booking so easy. I am happy to recommend you to all my family and friends!"
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