21-night Souks To Sorrento Cruise

About 300 years ago, the area of Bombay was nothing more than seven islands occupied by small fishing settlements. Today this bustling city offers a seemingly endless array of sights and cultural activities. Mumbai is the glamour of Bollywood cinema, cricket on the maidans on weekends, bhelpuri on the beach at Chowpatty and red double-decker buses. It is also the infamous cages of the red-light district, Asia's largest slums, communalist politics and powerful mafia dons. This pungent drama is played out against a Victorian townscape more reminiscent of a prosperous 19th-century English industrial city than anything you'd expect to find on the edge of the Arabian Sea. Mumbai has vital streetlife, India's best nightlife, and more bazaars than a visitor could ever explore.

Destination Guide

Excursions

Mumbai: 9 hours — Optional Private Excursions

Mumbai, Shore Excursion - 4 hours — Optional Private Excursions
You will be met at the pier. (Excursion timings will be subject to the ship's arrival and departure). Once you disembark from your cruise-liner, you will meet your guide in the arrival hall. He will escort you to your waiting vehicle and together you will set of to explore India’s most cosmopolitan city and financial nerve centre – Mumbai.

You will first explore the Fort area of Mumbai – Kala Ghoda, literally Black Horse – a neighborhood in South Mumbai. The crescent-shaped precinct is the city’s premier art district. You will drive past a large number of the city’s heritage buildings, full of museums, art galleries and educational institutions like the Jehangir Art Gallery, the National Gallery of Modern Art, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (previously called the Prince of Wales Museum) and The Arts Trust.
 
You will end your tour with a visit to Mani Bhavan. As poignant as it is tiny, this museum is in the building where Mahatma Gandhi stayed during visits to Bombay from 1917 to 1934.  The museum showcases the room where the leader formulated his philosophy of Satyagraha (non-violent protest) and launched the 1932 Civil Disobedience campaign that led to the end of British rule and Indian independence.  
 
Stop for a sumptuous lunch at a local restaurant before you return to the port area.

Inclusions:
Private chauffeur driven air conditioned vehicle, Private guide, Complimentary Soft beverages and Bottled water in the car, Monument entrance and still camera fee, Meet and Assist at all airports and hotels, Porterage at airports, All currently applicable taxes

Exclusions:
Expenses of any personal nature (laundry,telephone calls etc, unless specified) Tipping at hotels and to guides/escorts (unless specified), Meals (unless specified), Any insurance or Visa, Any hike in monument entrances fee or revision in government taxes, Air fare is quoted separately. 

*Terms and conditions apply
 

Mumbai, Shore Excursion - 6 hours — Optional Private Excursions
You will be met at the pier. (Excursion timings will be subject to the ship's arrival and departure). Once you disembark from your cruise-liner, you will meet your guide in the arrival hall. He will escort you to your waiting vehicle and together you will set of to explore India’s most cosmopolitan city and financial nerve centre – Mumbai.
 
Your first stop will be to take pictures at Dhobi Ghat, a sight unique to this city. ‘Dhobi Ghat’ or “washerfolks’ place”, is the world's largest outdoor laundry, and where Mumbai's traditional washer-folk - or dhobis - provide a wonderful service, collecting dirty laundry, washing it, and returning it neatly pressed, all for a very small fee.
 
Drive to Churchgate Station where you get the opportunity to see the famed ‘dabbawallas’ or ‘lunch box carriers’ in action.  The Mumbai dabbawallas are international figures now, thanks to Forbes Global. The Forbes story details the efficiency with which they deliver the dabbas or lunch pails of their customers. Around 5,000 dabbawallas collect and deliver 175,000 lunches every day and take the empty boxes back. Their operation has a six sigma rating which implies less than 3.4 errors in every million transactions. This is the same rating that has made companies like Motorola and GE world famous for their quality!
 
Later you will visit Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Mumbai City Museum, a structure steeped in Indian history and culture. Built in Renaissance revival style in 1872 as the Victoria & Albert Museum, it contains 3,500-plus objects centering on Mumbai’s history. This landmark building was renovated in 2008.
 
Stop for lunch at a local restaurant before you continue on your tour.
 
You will end your tour with a visit to Mani Bhavan. As poignant as it is tiny, this museum is in the building where Mahatma Gandhi stayed during visits to Bombay from 1917 to 1934.  The museum showcases the room where the leader formulated his philosophy of Satyagraha (non-violent protest) and launched the 1932 Civil Disobedience campaign that led to the end of British rule and Indian independence.  
 
You will then return to the port area.
 

Inclusions: Private chauffeur driven air conditioned vehicle, private guide, complimentary soft beverages and bottled water in the car, monument entrance and still camera fee, meet and assist at all airports and hotels, porterage at airports, all current applicable taxes.

Exclusions: Expenses of any personal nature (laundry, telephone calls etc, unless specified), tipping at hotels and to guides/escorts (unless specified), meals (unless specified) any insurance or Visa, any hike in monument entrances fee or revision in government taxes, air fare is quoted separately.

*Terms and conditions apply

FULL DAY MARVELS OF MUMBAI — Optional Private Excursions
FULL DAY
MARVELS OF MUMBAI
 
Proceed to Gateway of India, the city’s most famous landmark –an Indo-Saracenic archway built in 1911 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary. It was originally conceived as an entry point for passengers arriving on P&O steamers from England; today it is remembered more often as the place from which the British staged their final departure. You will make a stop here for photographs.
 
See the highlights of the city from the comfort of your minivan as you set off for a tour of Mumbai city. Your tour begins with the Gateway of India (PLEASE STOP FOR A WHILE SO THE GUEST CAN TAKE PHOTO), the city's most famous landmark - an Indo-Saracenic archway built in 1911 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary. It was originally conceived as an entry point for passengers arriving on P&O steamers from England; today it is remembered more often as the place from which the British staged their final departure.
 
Continue through Marine Drive, Mumbai's seaside promenade, an eight-lane highway with a wide pavement. Its graceful curve sweeps from the skyscrapers at Nariman Point to the foot of Malabar Hill. This hill is Mumbai's ritziest neighborhood. Popular since the 18th century because of its forested slopes, fresh sea breezes and panoramic views, merchants and colonial governors built many mansions and bungalows on its hillsides.
 
Your drive includes a look at a most remarkable railway station. Inspired by St. Pancras Station in London, the Victoria Terminus was built during Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee year. It is an extraordinary conglomeration of domes, spires, Corinthian columns and minarets in a style that was described by journalist James Cameron as "Victorian-Gothic-Saracenic-Italianate-Oriental-St.  Pancras-Baroque". The first train in India left from this station in April 1853; today half a million commuters use the station every day.
 
Depart to Church Gate Station and spend some time watching the dabba-wallahs, the members of the Mumbai Tiffin Box Suppliers Association. Every day 4,000 of them deliver fresh, home-cooked food from 100,000 suburban kitchens to offices in the downtown area. Each lunch is prepared by a loving wife or mother, and packed into a set of stackable aluminum boxes. The meals are carried to their hungry recipients dangling from shoulder-poles and bicycle handlebars, and stacked on decorated handcarts. Tins are rarely, if ever, lost, and always find their way home again to be washed up for the next day’s lunch.
 
Even if you are not possessed of an interest in other people’s dirty laundry, you’ll be fascinated by the dhobi ghats, your next stop. Each morning washing from all over Mumbai is brought here to be soaped, soaked, boiled, beaten, and thrashed. The next day, after being aired, pressed, folded and wrapped, the bundles are returned from whence they came. The secret that keeps the operation running smoothly is the coded symbol that each dhobi-wallah places on every item. Invisible to the untrained eye, this mark ensures that nothing will be lost. Stop here for photos that you’ll never be able to duplicate anywhere else.
 
Proceed for Taj Mahal Hotel for Lunch on direct payment basis.
 
You will continue to The Prince of Wales Museum, crowned by a white Mughal-style dome, the finest work done by architect George Wittet, who also designed the Gateway of India.
 
Return to pier.
 
 

HALF DAY MUSEUM AND GALLERIES OF MUMBAI — Optional Private Excursions
HALF DAY
MUSEUM AND GALLERIES OF MUMBAI
 
Explore the history, art and people of Mumbai and India during this informative half-day visit to the area's finest museums and galleries.

Depart from pier for the drive to Mani Bhawan, Gandhi's Bombay residence between 1917 and 1934. Mani Bhawan is now a permanent museum and memorial to the Mahatma. It contains a research library of more than 20,000 volumes, and a series of tiny dioramas depicting his life story in an interesting fashion. The walls are covered with photos of historic events and noteworthy people.

Next, visit the Prince of Wales Museum, easily recognized by its unique white Mughal-style dome. The museum is the finest work by architect George Wittet, who also designed the Gateway of India. It houses interesting displays of jade work, antique weapons, Indian paintings, illustrated manuscripts, exquisite miniatures, and clay and terracotta figures from the 3rd century B.C. Adjacent to Prince of Wales Museum, you will find the Jehangir Art Gallery. Mumbai's best-known venue for contemporary art, Jehangir is home to five small galleries displaying changing exhibits of 20^th century arts and crafts from around the world.

Return to pier.
 

FULL DAY THE CAVES OF ELEPHANTA — Optional Private Excursions
FULL DAY
THE CAVES OF ELEPHANTA
 
More than a thousand years ago, Hindu craftsmen carved columns and sculptures out of a series of caves located on an island off the shores of Mumbai, creating a temple complex dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Portuguese named the island Elephanta, after the large statue of an elephant they found near the spot where they docked their ships. Come and discover the unique beauty and intriguing tales of these temple caves with today’s memorable excursion.
 
Travel by minivan vehicle to the Gateway of India, the city’s most recognized landmark. Built in 1911 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary, the archway was originally conceived as an entry point for people arriving on steamers from England. Today, the gateway serves as a launching point for your own exploration of the Elephanta Temple.
 
Boarding a motor boat, enjoy the approximately one hour and thirty minutes cruise to the Elephanta landing. From the jetty you have the option of either taking the mini train or walking approximately 15 minutes to the base of the long stairway which leads to the top of the hill, where the caves are located. As you enter, you will see a magnificent sculpture of Shiva as Nataraj, showing an enraptured expression as he removes the veil of ignorance. The most outstanding sculpture is a bust of Trimurti—the three-faced Shiva representing the Hindu trinity, Brahma the creator, Vishnu the preserver, and Shiva the destroyer. In other panels, Shiva is depicted in service to humanity as he brings the River Ganges to Earth, and at his most fearsome as he crushes the demon of Andhaka. Later, board the motor boat for return cruise to the Gateway.

Re-board your vehicle for the transfer back to your ship.
 
 

FULL DAY THE VICTORIAN PAST — Optional Private Excursions
FULL DAY
THE VICTORIAN PAST

Experience the highlights of this fascinating city, with its Western monuments and Eastern sensibilities.

Begin your tour with photo stop at the Gateway of India, the city’s most famous landmark an Indo-Saracenic archway built in 1911 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary.

Next visit, The Church of St John the Evangelist better known as Afghan Church in South Mumbai, built by the British to commemorate the dead of the disastrous First Afghan War of 1838. The church is located in Navy Nagar in the Colaba area of Mumbai. Besides British soldiers it also commemorates different Indian regiments, such as the Bombay Army, the Madras Army, and Ranjit Singh's army from Lahore.

Drive along Marine Drive-Mumbai’s seaside promenade, an eight-lane highway with a wide pavement. Its graceful curve sweeps from the skyscrapers at Nariman Point to the foot of Malabar Hill, Mumbai’s ritziest neighborhood. At the top of hill are the Hanging Gardens, laid out in 1881. Here, an assortment of hedges, trimmed into animal shapes. The gardens also offer a superb view of the bustling city centre in the distance.

You then proceed to Bhau Daji Lad Museum (formerly the Victoria and Albert Museum) one of the oldest museums in Mumbai. It was established in 1855 as a treasure house of the decorative and industrial arts. The museum houses a large number of archaeological finds, maps and historical photographs of Mumbai.

You then visit, Crawford Market - one of South Mumbai's most famous markets. It is named after Arthur Crawford, the first Municipal Commissioner of the city. The market is situated near to Victoria Terminus railway station. The market houses a wholesale fruit, vegetable and poultry market.

Finally, visit and savor a relaxing lunch while exploring the historic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, which dates back to the 1500s before returning back to the ship.
  

Salalah is the capital of Dhofar province, which is the southern region of the Sultanate of Oman. Lovely parks and groves of banana, papaya, watermelon and vegetables give the city a tropical atmosphere and have earned it the name Garden City. Along the coast lie miles of uncrowded beaches, bordered by a brilliant blue sea. Other attractions include ancient forts, archaeological sites, fishing villages and the tombs of prophets. While it is mainly the rugged landscape and the beaches that appeal to visitors with a penchant for unspoiled locales, the modern and fast-growing city offers an interesting museum, architectural highlights such as the Al Husn Palace and colorful, bustling souks, where everything from frankincense and fragrant perfumes to gold and silver jewelry is sold. Most of all, Salalah has to be appreciated as an off-the-beaten-track location and for the uniqueness that marks the Dhofar region.

Destination Guide

Although it's definitely a modern metropolis, Jeddah is also the most interesting and friendly of Saudi Arabia's big cities. Jeddah is centered on Al-Balad, the strip of buildings along its coast road and the old city directly behind them. Jeddah has some great museums, including the Municipality Museum. Located in a 200-year-old restored house built from Red Sea coral, the museum has interesting photos of the development of Jeddah, along with rooms done up in traditional style. The Museum of Abdel Raouf Hasan Khalil houses 10,000 items in 4 mock-Arab buildings. The museum is a mish-mash of kitsch exhibits, but there are a few gems among the flotsam. The Jeddah Museum is the regional museum of archaeology and ethnography. Jeddah has one of the best markets in the kingdom, the spectacular Souk Al-Alawi, which winds its way through the old city and is still a great place to spend hours strolling and browsing. Jeddah's 3 reconstructed old city gates are also worth a look, as are several good examples of traditional Jeddah architecture found around North City Gate.

Destination Guide

Although it's definitely a modern metropolis, Jeddah is also the most interesting and friendly of Saudi Arabia's big cities. Jeddah is centered on Al-Balad, the strip of buildings along its coast road and the old city directly behind them. Jeddah has some great museums, including the Municipality Museum. Located in a 200-year-old restored house built from Red Sea coral, the museum has interesting photos of the development of Jeddah, along with rooms done up in traditional style. The Museum of Abdel Raouf Hasan Khalil houses 10,000 items in 4 mock-Arab buildings. The museum is a mish-mash of kitsch exhibits, but there are a few gems among the flotsam. The Jeddah Museum is the regional museum of archaeology and ethnography. Jeddah has one of the best markets in the kingdom, the spectacular Souk Al-Alawi, which winds its way through the old city and is still a great place to spend hours strolling and browsing. Jeddah's 3 reconstructed old city gates are also worth a look, as are several good examples of traditional Jeddah architecture found around North City Gate.

Destination Guide

Jordan's only outlet to the sea, Aqaba is a popular holiday destination - with a superb climate and beach-edged Red Sea waters that boast some of the world's finest coral reef diving. Aqaba is the only seaport of Jordan. Visit fabled Petra, perhaps the finest archaeological site in the Middle East. The great monuments of this Nabatean 'rose-red city, half as old as time' were hewn from living sandstone some 2,000 years ago, and rediscovered only in 1812. Nearer Aqaba is the spectacular scenery of Lawrence of Arabia's Wadi Rum, where rugged jebel mountains rise sheer from the desert sands.

Destination Guide

The port city of Safaga, located on the western flank of the Red Sea, across from Saudi Arabia, has dusty streets that are for the most part quiet. Diving enthusiasts come to Safaga to take advantage of one of the world’s best locations for underwater exploration. For those guests who feel the 150-mile drive through the desert may be too much, Safaga offers bazaars where bargaining for souvenirs and handicraft items may be fun. Nearby are a few hotels offering resort and diving facilities.

Luxor: Aside from visiting the pyramids near Cairo, Luxor and Al Karnak are places not to be missed when in search of ancient Egyptian monuments and artifacts. Luxor is on the southern part of ancient Thebes, Al Karnak on the north. Between the two, visitors can lose themselves for days in the hundreds of temples, chapels, tombs and gardens in the area. Too extensive to list all of them, a few of the tombs not to be missed are the tombs of Nefertari, Amenhotep II & III, several Ramesses and Tutankhamen.

Destination Guide

The port city of Safaga, located on the western flank of the Red Sea, across from Saudi Arabia, has dusty streets that are for the most part quiet. Diving enthusiasts come to Safaga to take advantage of one of the world’s best locations for underwater exploration. For those guests who feel the 150-mile drive through the desert may be too much, Safaga offers bazaars where bargaining for souvenirs and handicraft items may be fun. Nearby are a few hotels offering resort and diving facilities.

Luxor: Aside from visiting the pyramids near Cairo, Luxor and Al Karnak are places not to be missed when in search of ancient Egyptian monuments and artifacts. Luxor is on the southern part of ancient Thebes, Al Karnak on the north. Between the two, visitors can lose themselves for days in the hundreds of temples, chapels, tombs and gardens in the area. Too extensive to list all of them, a few of the tombs not to be missed are the tombs of Nefertari, Amenhotep II & III, several Ramesses and Tutankhamen.

Destination Guide

The Suez Canal links two oceans and two seas the Atlantic and Mediterranean via Gibraltar to Port Said, and the Indian Ocean and the Red Sea via Bab Al Mandab and the Gulf of Suez to the port of Suez. It is the longest Canal that has no locks, it can be widened and deepened at any time when necessary. The Suez Canal's strategic importance lies in the fact it is essential for world trade and greatly shortens the distance between East and West. The distance between Tokyo (Japan) and Rotterdam (Holland) is shortened by 23% if it goes round Africa.

The Suez Canal links two oceans and two seas the Atlantic and Mediterranean via Gibraltar to Port Said, and the Indian Ocean and the Red Sea via Bab Al Mandab and the Gulf of Suez to the port of Suez. It is the longest Canal that has no locks, it can be widened and deepened at any time when necessary. The Suez Canal's strategic importance lies in the fact it is essential for world trade and greatly shortens the distance between East and West. The distance between Tokyo (Japan) and Rotterdam (Holland) is shortened by 23% if it goes round Africa.

Holy Land to three of the world's major religions, Israel has a great emotional and spiritual effect on its visitors through its magnificent religious shrines and tenacity of a nation that, against all odds, made the desert bloom. As a center of shipping, banking, foreign commerce and wholesale trading, Haifa boasts institutions for higher education and for scientific research, a theater, a concert hall, museums and places of culture and entertainment. The residential areas and major hotels are situated along the ridge of Mount Carmel, about 900 feet above sea level. Clandestine Immigration & Navy Museum features the ship which ran the British blockade during the Mandatory period. Mane Katz Museum is dedicated to the world-renowned Jewish artist of the same name who left his home, paintings and other works of art to the city. Gan Ha-Pesalim, a lovely garden overlooking the bay, is home to over 20 bronze sculptures by Ursula Malbin. Elija’s Cave, known as the center of the prophet’s activities, is holy to Jews, Christians, Moslems and Druze.

Destination Guide

Excursions

1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Nazareth and the Sea of Galilee — Optional Private Excursions
Overview
Our Private Shore Excursions make the most of your brief time in Israel.  Our port-to-port customized itineraries deliver an engaging and seamless experience.
 

• Experience breathtaking beauty of the Sea of Galilee
• Visit the Christian Holy sites in Galilee
• Explore Nazareth, childhood home of Jesus

• Enjoy an overview of Haifa from the top of Mount Carmel, including the Bahai Gardens
• Visit the Basilica of the Annunciation in Nazareth - boyhood home of Jesus
• Enjoy the spectacular view of the Sea of Galilee from the Mount of Beatitudes, the traditional site of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount
• Visit the church at Tabgha, the site of Jesus’ miracle of the Multiplication of Loaves & Fishes
• Visit the ancient synaguge at Capernaum, site of Jesus’ ministry in Galilee

• Mount Carmel
• Nazareth
• The Sea of Galilee

1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Akko Caesarea — Optional Private Excursions
Overview
Our Private Shore Excursions make the most of your brief time in Israel.  Our port-to-port customized itineraries deliver an engaging and seamless experience.
 

• Enjoy the beauty of Northern Israel
• Explore historical sites of Caesarea and Akko

• Enjoy an overview of Haifa from the top of Mount Carmel, including the Bahai Gardens
• Explore the ancient port city of Caesarea, including excavations from Roman, Byzantine, and Crusader periods
• Visit the ancient Phoenician and Crusader seaport of Akko, including the  underground Knight’s chambers, the Templar tunnel, and the Hospitaller Castle

• Mount Carmel
• Caesarea
• Akko

1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Caesarea Tel Aviv — Optional Private Excursions
Overview
 

• Enjoy the beauty of Northern Israel
• Visit the archeological sites in Caesarea
• Explore Tel Aviv and visit the Biblical city of Jaffa

• Enjoy an overview of Haifa from the top of Mount Carmel, including the Bahai Gardens
• Explore the ancient port city of Caesarea, including excavations from Roman, Byzantine, and Crusader periods
• Visit a variety of neighborhoods in Tel Aviv - the Bauhaus area, the Neve Tzedek area and Rabin Squar
• Visit the ancient port of Jaffa, with its cobblestone paths, flea market and artists galleries

• Mount Carmel
• Caesarea
• Tel Aviv & Jaffa

1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Akko - Safed — Optional Private Excursions
Overview
 

• Enjoy the beauty of Northern Israel
• Explore historical city of Akko
• Visit the spiritual city of Safed

• Visit the ancient seaport of Akko
• Discover the underground Knight’s chambers, the Templar tunnel, and the Hospitaller Castle
• Explore Safed, the birthplace of “Kabbalah” - Jewish mysticism
• Visit the ancient synagogues and artists’ galleries
• Enjoy an overview of Haifa from the top of Mount Carmel, including the Bahai Gardens

• Akko
• Safed
• Mount Carmel 

2 days/1 night Shore Excursion from Haifa - Sea of Galilee, Nazareth, Jerusalem and Bethlehem — Optional Private Excursions
Overview

Our Private Shore Excursions make the most of your brief time in Israel.  Our port-to-port customized itineraries deliver an engaging and seamless experience.
 

• Experience breathtaking beauty of the Sea of Galilee
• Visit the Christian Holy sites in Galilee
• Explore Nazareth, childhood home of Jesus
• Walk the Jewish Quarter of the Old City
• Explore the Holy sites of the Christian Quarter
• Experience the grace and sophistication of New Jerusalem
• Visit to Bethlehem

• Enjoy an overview of Haifa from the top of Mount Carmel, including the Bahai Gardens
• Visit the Basilica of the Annunciation in Nazareth - boyhood home of Jesus
• Enjoy the spectacular view of the Sea of Galilee from the Mount of Beatitudes, the traditional site of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount
• Visit the church at Tabgha, the site of Jesus’ miracle of the Multiplication of Loaves & Fishes
• Visit the ancient synagogue at Capernaum, site of Jesus’ ministry in Galilee
• Enjoy a magnificent panoramic view of Old & New Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives
• Visit the Garden of Gethsemane and the Basilica of the Agony
• Visit the ancient synagogues and stroll through the Cardo - the reconstructed main street of Byzantine Jerusalem
• View the Temple Mount with the Dome of the Rock & the Al Aqsa Mosque
• Touch the Western Wall - Judaism’s holiest site
• Walk the final Stations of the Cross along the Via Dolorosa and visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre
• Visit the Room of the Last Supper, in which, according to the Gospel accounts, Jesus shared his last meal with the disciples.
• Visit Manger Square and the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, birthplace of Jesus

• Mount Carmel
• Nazareth
• The Sea of Galilee
• Jerusalem  Old City
• The Western Wall
• Church of the Holy Sepulchre
• Bethlehem

Holy Land to three of the world's major religions, Israel has a great emotional and spiritual effect on its visitors through its magnificent religious shrines and tenacity of a nation that, against all odds, made the desert bloom. As a center of shipping, banking, foreign commerce and wholesale trading, Haifa boasts institutions for higher education and for scientific research, a theater, a concert hall, museums and places of culture and entertainment. The residential areas and major hotels are situated along the ridge of Mount Carmel, about 900 feet above sea level. Clandestine Immigration & Navy Museum features the ship which ran the British blockade during the Mandatory period. Mane Katz Museum is dedicated to the world-renowned Jewish artist of the same name who left his home, paintings and other works of art to the city. Gan Ha-Pesalim, a lovely garden overlooking the bay, is home to over 20 bronze sculptures by Ursula Malbin. Elija’s Cave, known as the center of the prophet’s activities, is holy to Jews, Christians, Moslems and Druze.

Destination Guide

Excursions

1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Nazareth and the Sea of Galilee — Optional Private Excursions
Overview
Our Private Shore Excursions make the most of your brief time in Israel.  Our port-to-port customized itineraries deliver an engaging and seamless experience.
 

• Experience breathtaking beauty of the Sea of Galilee
• Visit the Christian Holy sites in Galilee
• Explore Nazareth, childhood home of Jesus

• Enjoy an overview of Haifa from the top of Mount Carmel, including the Bahai Gardens
• Visit the Basilica of the Annunciation in Nazareth - boyhood home of Jesus
• Enjoy the spectacular view of the Sea of Galilee from the Mount of Beatitudes, the traditional site of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount
• Visit the church at Tabgha, the site of Jesus’ miracle of the Multiplication of Loaves & Fishes
• Visit the ancient synaguge at Capernaum, site of Jesus’ ministry in Galilee

• Mount Carmel
• Nazareth
• The Sea of Galilee

1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Akko Caesarea — Optional Private Excursions
Overview
Our Private Shore Excursions make the most of your brief time in Israel.  Our port-to-port customized itineraries deliver an engaging and seamless experience.
 

• Enjoy the beauty of Northern Israel
• Explore historical sites of Caesarea and Akko

• Enjoy an overview of Haifa from the top of Mount Carmel, including the Bahai Gardens
• Explore the ancient port city of Caesarea, including excavations from Roman, Byzantine, and Crusader periods
• Visit the ancient Phoenician and Crusader seaport of Akko, including the  underground Knight’s chambers, the Templar tunnel, and the Hospitaller Castle

• Mount Carmel
• Caesarea
• Akko

1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Caesarea Tel Aviv — Optional Private Excursions
Overview
 

• Enjoy the beauty of Northern Israel
• Visit the archeological sites in Caesarea
• Explore Tel Aviv and visit the Biblical city of Jaffa

• Enjoy an overview of Haifa from the top of Mount Carmel, including the Bahai Gardens
• Explore the ancient port city of Caesarea, including excavations from Roman, Byzantine, and Crusader periods
• Visit a variety of neighborhoods in Tel Aviv - the Bauhaus area, the Neve Tzedek area and Rabin Squar
• Visit the ancient port of Jaffa, with its cobblestone paths, flea market and artists galleries

• Mount Carmel
• Caesarea
• Tel Aviv & Jaffa

1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Akko - Safed — Optional Private Excursions
Overview
 

• Enjoy the beauty of Northern Israel
• Explore historical city of Akko
• Visit the spiritual city of Safed

• Visit the ancient seaport of Akko
• Discover the underground Knight’s chambers, the Templar tunnel, and the Hospitaller Castle
• Explore Safed, the birthplace of “Kabbalah” - Jewish mysticism
• Visit the ancient synagogues and artists’ galleries
• Enjoy an overview of Haifa from the top of Mount Carmel, including the Bahai Gardens

• Akko
• Safed
• Mount Carmel 

2 days/1 night Shore Excursion from Haifa - Sea of Galilee, Nazareth, Jerusalem and Bethlehem — Optional Private Excursions
Overview

Our Private Shore Excursions make the most of your brief time in Israel.  Our port-to-port customized itineraries deliver an engaging and seamless experience.
 

• Experience breathtaking beauty of the Sea of Galilee
• Visit the Christian Holy sites in Galilee
• Explore Nazareth, childhood home of Jesus
• Walk the Jewish Quarter of the Old City
• Explore the Holy sites of the Christian Quarter
• Experience the grace and sophistication of New Jerusalem
• Visit to Bethlehem

• Enjoy an overview of Haifa from the top of Mount Carmel, including the Bahai Gardens
• Visit the Basilica of the Annunciation in Nazareth - boyhood home of Jesus
• Enjoy the spectacular view of the Sea of Galilee from the Mount of Beatitudes, the traditional site of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount
• Visit the church at Tabgha, the site of Jesus’ miracle of the Multiplication of Loaves & Fishes
• Visit the ancient synagogue at Capernaum, site of Jesus’ ministry in Galilee
• Enjoy a magnificent panoramic view of Old & New Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives
• Visit the Garden of Gethsemane and the Basilica of the Agony
• Visit the ancient synagogues and stroll through the Cardo - the reconstructed main street of Byzantine Jerusalem
• View the Temple Mount with the Dome of the Rock & the Al Aqsa Mosque
• Touch the Western Wall - Judaism’s holiest site
• Walk the final Stations of the Cross along the Via Dolorosa and visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre
• Visit the Room of the Last Supper, in which, according to the Gospel accounts, Jesus shared his last meal with the disciples.
• Visit Manger Square and the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, birthplace of Jesus

• Mount Carmel
• Nazareth
• The Sea of Galilee
• Jerusalem  Old City
• The Western Wall
• Church of the Holy Sepulchre
• Bethlehem

Piraeus is the seaport for Athens, the capital of western civilization, which boasts a fantastic mix of classical ruins and vivacious modern life. Climb the hill of Acropolis to wonder at the Parthenon, join the lively Athenians in Constitution Square, and find a welcoming taverna for spirited bizouki music, plenty of ouzo to drink, and energetic Greek dancing. Piraeus is the largest harbor in the country. The white chapel of St. George at its summit has a theater bearing the same name. The hill of Nymphs is the site of a planetarium, which is located above magnificent Thesseio temple. Among all of these hills, Acropolis is the one that glorified Athens and the whole Greek world and became the symbol of the western civilization. Bays and small rocky or sandy coves dot the area and during the summer are filled with Athenians and foreigners enjoying their beauty.

Destination Guide

Excursions

Piraeus: The Ancient City of Athens - 8 Hours — Optional Private Excursions
Dominated by the remarkable Parthenon, which has stood for over 2,000 years, Athens is a city of major architectural and archaeological treasures. At Piraeus Port you will receive a warm welcome from your guide and driver who provides a captivating insight into the city’s history and culture during your full day tour.

For most, the highlight of a visit to Athens is the world famous Acropolis and the Parthenon. Dedicated to the Goddess Athena, it is one of the most important ancient monuments in the Western world. This afternoon, delight in the mesmerising display of eclectic Greek and Oriental art at the Benaki Museum. Complete your day with a drive past the Panethenaic Stadium, the pure marble masterpiece that served as the original site for the modern Olympics. At the end of the tour you are privately transferred back to your cruise ship.

Highlights:

• Ascend the Acropolis to the Parthenon, one of the most important ancient monuments in the Western world
• Tour the Benaki Museum

• Private transport by luxury car or minivan
• An expert local guide for 8 hours
• Entrance fees to all sights and museums
  All taxes

• All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
• Gratuities

Piraeus: Cape Sounion - 5 hours — Optional Private Excursions
Meet your guide as you disembark your cruise ship in Piraeus and venture along the scenic coast to Cape Sounion where you visit the ancient ruined Temple of Poseidon. This temple is believed to date from the 5th century BC and was built to honour Poseidon, who ranked second only to Athena herself in terms of power. The Temple enjoys an impressive position, high on the cliffs, and has, over the centuries, been marked by many travellers’ carved signatures, including that of Lord Byron. After touring the site, you return to your cruise ship in Piraeus.

Highlights:

• Venture along the coast to Cape Sounion to the ancient ruins of the Temple of Poseidon

Sorrento is a town of extraordinary beauty and is known as a popular gateway to Italy's most spectacular stretch of coastline - the Amalfi Drive lined with fishing villages and famous resorts. The seaside resort of Amalfi sits with weathered houses scrambling up steep cliffs. Visitors marvel at its location and its magnificent cathedral. The religious sanctuary of Cloister of St. Francis is worth a visit. The tiny, exclusive resort of Positano has its famous world-class hotel, San Pietro. Excavations of the ruined city of Pompeii, which was destroyed in 79 A.D. during the disastrous eruption of Mount Vesuvius, give visitors a vivid impression of life in a very wealthy ancient city and the tragic end of its population. The Isle of Capri ranks as one of the most beautiful islands and has captured visitors for centuries with excellent climate, spectacular landscape and fantastic sea caverns. Capri has lavish villas, elegant hotels, chic boutiques and quaint restaurants. Museo Correale contains a death mask of poet Torquato Tasso and some special editions of his works, pictures, furniture and porcelain.

Destination Guide

Excursions

Sorrento: The Ancient City of Pompeii - 6 Hours — Optional Private Excursions

• Visit the incredibly preserved Roman city of Pompeii

• Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
• An expert English-speaking guide at the Pompeii site (3 hours)
• Entrance fees to the Pompeii site
• All taxes

Sorrento: The Iconic Amalfi Coast - 6 Hours — Optional Private Excursions

• Drive along the magnificent Amalfi Coast, stopping at Positano, Amalfi and Ravello.

• Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
• An expert English-speaking driver-guide throughout the tour (6 hours)
• Entrance fees to the Villa Ruffolo
• All taxes

Sorrento: Capri Exploration by Private Motorboat – 8 hours — Optional Private Excursions

• Private skippered motorboat to explore the beautiful island of Capri, including Marina Piccola and Marina Grande. 

• 34-foot (1-4 pax) or 43-foot (5-6 pax) private motorboat with English-speaking skipper (8 hours)
• All taxes

Civitavecchia is the port city for Rome. Rome has always been and remains the Eternal City. With its splendid churches, ancient monuments and palaces, spacious parks, tree-lined boulevards, fountains, outdoor cafés and elegant shops, Rome is one of the world’s most attractive cities. Among the most famous monuments is the Colosseum where spectators watched combats between muscled gladiators and ferocious animals. Stop to see the remains of the Forum, once a political and commercial center. Rome’s squares were enhanced with such imposing structures as the Vittorio Emanuele Monument and grandiose fountains like the Fontana di Trevi. Awe at Christendom’s most magnificent church, the Sistine Chapel. The busy square Piazza Venezia is easily recognized by its imposing Vittorio Emanuele II Monument. Take a stroll to Rome's famous Trevi Fountain. Vatican City is the site of lovely St. Peter's Square and St. Peter's Basilica, where for 200 years, Renaissance masters worked on its design and created an unparalleled masterpiece. Visit Vatican Museum.

Destination Guide

Excursions

Civitavecchia: Imperial Rome & The Vatican City - 8 hours — Optional Private Excursions

• Tour some of Rome's most iconic sites including the Colosseum and the Roman Forum
• Explore the impressive museum collections in the Vatican City and the breath-taking masterpiece that is Michelangelo's frescoed ceiling in the Sistine Chapel
• Spend time in the Basilica of St. Paul, the largest church in the world

• Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
• An expert English-speaking guide in Rome (6 hours)
• Entrance fees to Colosseum, Imperial Forum and Vatican Museums
• All taxes

Civitavecchia: Rome for Repeat Visitors - 8 hours — Optional Private Excursions

• Visit the church of San Clemente and discover its fascinating history
• Explore the Palazzo Doria Pamphilj, a majestic royal residence of one of Rome’s most illustrious families, which houses a vast private art collection

• Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
• An expert English-speaking guide in Rome (6 hours)
• Entrance fees to San Clemente and Doria Pamphilij
• All taxes

Civitavecchia: Gastronomic Rome and Time at Leisure - 8 hours — Optional Private Excursions

• Uncover Rome's bohemian quarter, along with tastings of Italy's best loved delicacies 
• Car and driver at your disposal to discover Rome

• Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
• An expert local guide (3 hours)
• Entrance fees
• All taxes
• Food and wine tastings

Civitavecchia: Museums of Rome - Capitoline and Borghese - 8 hours — Optional Private Excursions

• Travel out to Capitoline Hill and visit one of the oldest museum complexes in the world
• Visit Villa Borghese, home to a collection of sculptures and paintings that are among the most important in Italy

• Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
• An expert English-speaking guide in Rome (6 hours)
• Entrance fees to the Capitoline Museums and Villa Borghese
• All taxes

Rome and the Vatican City: 8-9 hours — Optional Private Excursions

• Great way to see major sites of Rome in a day
• Major sites covered such as the Coliseum, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps and the Vatican city
• Reservations for the Vatican museum - no waiting

• Deluxe car or van and private English speaking guide for the day
• Entrance tickets
• Clients are picked up and dropped off at the Port

• Meals not included
• Gratuities
• Items of personal nature

Cardinals’ Villas and Parks - 8 Hours — Optional Private Excursions
The area around Viterbo, north of Rome, became a retreat for popes and cardinals during troubled times in Rome. Happily for us, they have left a legacy of beautiful villas and gardens, designed in one of Italy’s finest periods, the Renaissance and consequently models for the rest of Europe to copy. One of the finest villas is the Palazzo Farnese at Caprarola, a huge edifice, standing at the top of the town’s steep main street. Surrounding the palace are two magnificent gardens, a south-facing summer terrace and an east-facing winter terrace, each with appropriate plants and design. After lunch in a traditional local restaurant (not included), you will visit the Villa Lante in Bagnaia, another splendid Renaissance palace and built by Vignola, the architect of the Palazzo Farnese and considered to be his finest creation. Here though, it is the gardens that take pride of place and epitomise the Mannerist period of the Renaissance. The final visit of the day will be to the Sacro Bosco di Bomarzo, the sacred Bomarzo wood, otherwise known as the monster Park; it consists of the most amazing and often bizarre sculptures, many carved from the local rock, scattered through the woods.

Pricing: Please Inquire

Duration: 8 hours