Pharaohs & Promised Land

Paphos
Here’s your chance to see Paphos, one of the most beautiful parts of Cyprus. The drive here alone will have you reaching for your camera. You’ll pass through neatly-rowed vineyards and zesty orange groves. Take in the world famous Petra tou Romiou - otherwise known as Aphrodite’s Rock - where the goddess of love is said to have risen from the sea. And visit the catacomb of Saint Solomoni to see some of its 12th-century frescoes. Legend has it that the tree at the entrance is sacred and it can cure the ailments of those who hang a gift on its branches. While you're in Paphos, you'll take a look at the underground Tombs of the Kings - a necropolis dating back to the 4th century BC. Interestingly enough, despite the regal title, no kings were actually buried here – just some wealthy aristocrats. But with their magnificent Doric columns and frescoed walls, they were, and still are, fit for royalty. Last but by no means least, you’ll finish off with some time to yourself for a laid-back wander round the town’s harbour. Then it’s back to Limassol where your ship awaits. £26.00/£16.00 (4.5hrs)

Curium & Omodos
Some real gems surround Limassol and this is your chance to see two of them. Your day kicks off with a scenic drive through the lush vineyards and fragrant citrus groves of Phassouri. You’ll come to the Greco-Roman site of Curium, perched on a cliff-top high above the sparkling Mediterranean. Take a look at the beautiful mosaic floors and the baths of Efstolios House, as well as the open-air theatre which serves up jaw-dropping views. Afterwards, make a beeline for the quaint village of Omodos. Here, taste the superb local wine. Buy some of the delicate lacework for which the place is well known. And wander the cobbled streets that wrap themselves around the Monastery of the Holy Cross. You’ll actually get to go inside the church for a look around, before going to an old wine press. On your way back, pass through the old quarter of Limassol where you’ll get some time for a wander or a spot of shopping before heading back to your ship. £26.00/£16.00 (4hrs)

Shore excursion and prices are subject to change and latest prices will be available onboard the ship.

Castle, Cave & City

This tour kicks off with a visit to the Medieval castle in Alanya. Most of it was built in the 13th century by the Sultan of Seljuk, on top of earlier Byzantine and Roman fortifications. It’s setting is pretty special to say the least. It sits 250 metres high on a rocky peninsular, with the Mediterranean Sea protecting it from three sides. The area was pacified under the Ottoman Empire, so the castle stopped being purely defensive. During the 19th century, lots of villas were built within its walls. Today, it’s an impressive open-air museum, reflecting Seljuk art at its best. After some time here, you’ll stop at Dalmatas Magarasi – a small cave with beautiful calcite formations. It was discovered in 1948 by engineers building Alanya harbour, and in the 1960s Turks started coming to the cave for its alleged healing properties. The humid air is supposed to be good for asthmatic problems, and doctors prescribe treatment here regularly. Leaving the cave behind, you’ll have some free time in Alanya city centre before returning to the ship. £24.00/ £12.00 (3.5hrs)

Aspendos & Perge

Also known as the heart of ancient Pamphylia, Perge is where St Paul preached his first sermon when he began his missionary journeys. On this trip you’ll see examples of Pergian architecture and ruins that’ll give you a real insight into the importance of the city. Afterwards, make your way to Aspendos and admire what is probably the best-preserved theatre of antiquity. Big enough to hold thousands of spectators, it’s still used today for performances and festivals. The galleries, stage decorations and acoustics all testify to the architect's success. The second highlight of Aspendos is its aqueducts, left behind by the Romans. Once you’ve seen those, we head back to Alanya. Cameras at the ready… Just so you know... The drive to Perge is approx 1hr45mins. £28.00/ £14.00 (5.5hrs)

Manavgat Waterfall & Side

The waterfall at Manavgat is a real beauty. It’s wide and low - so low in fact, it actually disappears under high water during any floods. Watch the white foaming water plunge powerfully over the rocks – its impressive to say the least. After some time here, you’ll head to Side to see the ruins of its ancient amphitheatre. The usual Greek method of building these theatres was to hollow out a hillside, but there weren’t any suitable in Side so they adopted the Roman method, using arches to support sheer verticals. Over time and with the shifting of the earth, one of the walls crumbled, so the Byzantines converted it into an open-air sanctuary with two chapels. After your visit here, you’ll have around an hour’s free time in Side before returning to the ship. £28.00/ £14.00 (5hrs)

Greek & Roman Alexandria
If you’re a fan of history, you’ll love this one. Founded by Alexander the Great, Alexandria is now the biggest port on the North African coast. Your morning starts with a visit to the National Museum, home to 40,000 relics dating as far back as the 3rd century BC. Among the treasures you’ll find the 'Tanagra' figurines, giving a nod to the hairstyles and dress of ladies during Cleopatra’s reign. Afterwards, head for the Roman Amphitheatre in Kom El Dekka. With its 12 marble terraces in a semicircle, it’s the only one of its kind in Egypt. On the drive back, you’ll see two major landmarks from the comfort of your coach. First up is Alexandria's Abu El Abass Mosque, with its tall minaret and four domes. And second is the Qait Bey Fort, built on the original site of the Pharos, Alexandria's lighthouse and one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. It’s a history-lover’s dream. Just so you know... Cameras are not permitted inside the National Museum. £35.00/£23.00 (4 hrs).

El Alamein
Heading west of Alexandria, take in gorgeous coastal scenery as you drive alongside the glittering Med. Your destination is the dinky village of El Alamein, meaning 'the two worlds' in Arabic. It was here that in 1942 the Allied forces put a halt to the advance of Nazi Africa Corps under the command of British General Montgomery. The Nazis considered El Alamein the gateway to Alexandria and their key to control of the African continent. The battle of El Alamein was one of the most violent - and important - confrontations during World War II. Your expert guide will share with you loads of interesting facts as you head for the Military Museum, where exhibits include weapons, military garb and tanks. From here, make your way to the moving Commonwealth Cemetery, before heading back to Alexandria. A poignant day out. Just so you know... Local camera/video charges apply at the Military Museum in local currency only. (10/20 EGP) £33.00/£21.00 (5 hrs).

Shore excursion and prices are subject to change and latest prices will be available onboard the ship.

Classic Egypt - Pyramids & the Cairo Museum
This full day tour will give you a glimpse into one of the greatest civilisations the world has known - the ancient Egyptians. Not only will you get to see the three enormous Pyramids of Giza, the last remaining Wonder of the World, but you’ll call in at the world famous Cairo Museum, too. It all begins with a drive to the big bustling city of Cairo. Once you arrive, you’ll make your way to the National Archaeological Museum, home to the biggest – and most important - collection of Egyptian antiquities in the world. Your guided tour takes in everything from the Rosetta Stone replica to treasures taken from Tutankamun’s tomb. You’ll even get the opportunity to see the mummified remains of Egypt’s pharaohs and queens. After that, stop for a buffet lunch before making your way to the Giza Plateau and Cairo’s star attraction – the pyramids. Feast your eyes on the panoramic views and capture them on camera, before heading down the valley to see the guardian of this mortuary complex - the Sphinx. Your final port of call is the Papyrus Institute for a little souvenir shopping before heading back to the ship. Just so you know... the Mummies room is an optional extra payable locally. £81.00/£41.00 (13hrs)

Pyramids, Mohamed Ali Mosque & the Nile
This tour shines the spotlight on Egypt’s chaotic capital – Cairo. Your first stop is the Citadel of Saladin and the Alabaster Mosque of Mohammed Ali. You’ll have time to look inside the famous mosque, plus you’ll get to see some superb views of Old Cairo. Your trip continues with a drive down to the dusty banks of the Nile where your boat awaits. Once onboard, sail along Egypt’s famous river and admire Cairo’s famous landmarks while you tuck into a buffet lunch. Then it’s time to head for the Giza Plateau to clap eyes on those famous pyramids, the last remaining Wonder of the Ancient World. From the Western Plateau, you’ll get a great view of the pyramids so make sure you bring your cameras – there are plenty of snap-worthy shots to be had. After some time here, we'll drive closer to the pyramids for a second stop before heading down the valley to the Sphinx. Your next stop is the Papyrus Institute for a little souvenir shopping. £81.00/£41.00 (13hrs)

Pyramids, Memphis & the Tombs of Cairo
Some of Egypt’s best sights are yours for the taking on this tour. Your day starts with a drive past the outskirts of Cairo, to Egypt's first capital, Memphis. Sights to look out for here include the ruined Temple of Ptah, the fallen colossal statue of King Ramses II and the alabaster Sphinx of King Amenhopis II. A short drive from Memphis brings you to the ancient cemetery of Sakkara, where you’ll see the world's first monumental stone building - the Step Pyramid of King Zoser. You'll even get to go inside one of the Mastabas – or tombs - built nearby. Next, make your way to Cairo for a buffe lunch. Then we’ll whisk you off to the Giza Plateau for the most spine-tingling sight of them all – the pyramids. From the Western Plateau you’ll get a great view of the three huge pyramids – it’s a photo opportunity not to be missed. After that, drive closer to the pyramids and down the valley to the Sphinx. Your final stop is at the Papyrus Institute for a little souvenir shopping, before heading back to the ship. £81.00/£41.00 (13hrs)

Shore excursions and prices are subject to change and latest prices will be available onboard the ship

Jerusalem & Bethlehem
Jews, Christians, Muslims – they all hold this place dear. Sights here represent each of the faiths. Kicking things off is a fly-by driving tour, passing the Israeli parliament building known as the Knesset, the Museum of Israel and the Shrine of the Book. It’s the best way to see the city sights. Next you’ll drive to the top of the Mount of Olives. Named after its olive tree-planted slopes, this place is thought to be where the dead will be resurrected on Judgement Day. The views from here are epic. From here, you’ll head for the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus went to pray after the Last Supper and was betrayed by his disciple Judas. A visit to the Church of All Nations is also on the itinerary here. It’s followed by an active walk through the old city following the path Jesus took as he carried his cross to Calvary, a visit the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, the site of Jesus’ crucifixion, burial and resurrection and a glimpse of the shimmering mosques of Al-Aqsa and The Dome of the Rock. You’ll also stop off at the Western Wall, the place where Orthodox Jews nod in prayer and put prayer notes into the cracks of the wall. Finally, you’ll head to Bethlehem for lunch in a restaurant, and to see one of Christianity’s most sacred sights – the Church of the Nativity. Built on the same site as the stable where Mary gave birth to Jesus. Just so you know … Your guide for the Jerusalem part of the tour is not permitted to accompany you through to Bethlehem. Therefore, your new guide will meet you once you pass through the border. Also, more time will be spent sightseeing in Jerusalem than in Bethlehem. Finally, a visit of the cave in the Church of Nativity is not included. £78.00/£44.00 (10hrs)

Massada & Dead Sea
Kicking off with drive through the Judean Hills, you’ll wind down the mountainside to the Dead Sea. Lying at the lowest spot on earth, its waters are packed with therapeutic salt and minerals which find their way into products sold all over the globe. You’ll head into the lunar-like desert to see the arid rocks which shot to fame in 1947 when a Bedouin shepherd boy discovered the famous Dead Sea Scrolls hidden in their depths, they’re oldest biblical manuscripts known to man. Next up is the Massada Fortress. Perched on the tip of a titanic rock face, this Jewish shrine was the last stronghold of the zealots back in the days of King Herod. A cable car will carry you to the top where you’ll explore the ancient ruins, taking in Herod’s three-tiered palace, the synagogue and the baths. Spare some time to soak up the view before we whisk you away to the Dead Sea. During a buffet lunch here, you can enjoy a swim or simply lie back. Don’t forget to take a little bit of the magic home with you, snapping up some Dead Sea products on your way. Just so you know… The drive to Masada is 2.5 hours. We recommend taking your towel from the ship & some sandals when entering the water. At the Dead Sea you can purchase mud, however, they do not accept sterling. Your time at the Dead Sea is combined with your lunch stop, which might be late in the day. £79.00/£50.00 (10.5hrs)

Tel Aviv & Jaffa
This tour ticks off two of Israel’s major must-sees. Your adventure begins with a panoramic drive through Tel Aviv. It’s a metropolis of modern tower blocks and skyscrapers that’s grown out of Old Jaffa. You’ll pass the Tel Aviv Art Museum and the Habimah National Theatre, before driving down Rothschild Boulevard – the new city’s centrepiece – to admire the Bauhaus buildings that boosted Tel Aviv into the UNESCO heritage hall of fame. Next, you’ll pass Tel-Aviv’s seafront on your way to Old Jaffa, one of the oldest cities in the world. You’ll drive through the harbour where Jaffa oranges were once loaded onto boats to be shipped all over the world. Check out the ancient walled quarter, a maze of cobblestone streets and twisting alleys. Then, have your camera ready for a photo stop at Jaffa’s observation point, overlooking the ‘white city’ of Tel Aviv. Just so you know… the drive to Tel Aviv is one hour. £32.00/£16.00 (5hrs)

Panoramic Jerusalem
The Western Wall. The Gardens of Gethsemane. Mount of Olives. They’re some of the world’s most famous religious icons and just a drop in the ocean of Jerusalem’s line-up of superstar sights. In fact, there are more things to see here than you can feasibly fit into a day. But you can catch most of them on this guided tour. Kicking things off, you’ll travel from Ashdod to the Mount of Olives, where it’s said the Messiah will resurrect the dead on the day of judgment. It’s Jerusalem’s holiest cemetery and the view from the top is breathtaking, the whole city spreads out below you. From here, you’ll head to the Gardens of Gethsemane, the olive grove where Jesus prayed after the Last Supper and was betrayed by Judas the same night. Next up, is the Western Wall. Also known as the Wailing Wall, it’s the most sacred site in the Jewish world and for centuries Jewish worshipers have gathered here to pray. After a buffet lunch with time to relax, you’ll take a fly-by driving tour of the city. Highlights seen include the Knesset where Israel’s Parliament holds court and the Israel Museum where the world’s oldest-known biblical documents, the Dead Sea Scrolls, are kept. Finally, you'll head to see David's Tomb, the Dormition Church and the room of the last supper. £75.00/£40.00 (9.5hrs)

Jerusalem Through Time
Picture this. You're standing on the spot where Jesus was crucified and buried. You're sitting on a hilltop gazing out over Jerusalem. You're taking snap-shots of the room where Jesus ate the Last Supper. It's hard to believe all this is possible in one day. But on this trip you'll see some of the most sacred Christian sites in the world - and it certainly packs them in. First though you'll park on top of the Mount of Olives to see the Jewish cemetery. It's said to be the spot where Jesus taught the disciples the 'Pater Noster', or the Lord's Prayer. In good weather you can see all the way across to Temple Mount from here. Just below is your next stop, the Garden of Gethsemane. This peaceful patch of olive trees has hardly changed since Jesus sat here with his disciples after the Last Supper. Bringing things up to date, you'll head to the Jerusalem Time Elevator. Jump in the simulator and let Chaim Topol, of Fiddler on the Roof fame, guide you through 3000 years of Jerusalem's history. Leaving historic adventures behind, you'll visit Mount Zion and its must-see sights. There's the Church of Dormition, the room where Jesus ate the Last Supper and King David's tomb.. After that, a buffet lunch in the town centre and a walking tour of the old city follow in quick succession. You'll visit The Church of the Holy Sepulchre and Golgotha where Jesus was crucified and buried, the Western Wall, Temple Mount and the Al-Aqsa - Dome of the Rock mosques. Just so you know … The minimum age for this tour is 13 years old. £75.00/£40.00 (10.5 hrs)

Yad Vashem & Jerusalem
Of all the must-see sights in Jerusalem, Yad Vashem is the most stirring. This museum is dedicated to the six million Jews who lost their lives during the Holocaust. It’s packed with exhibitions documenting Jewish life in Europe, before and after the atrocities. There’s the Valley of Communities where names of 5000 lost Jewish communities are inscribed on the walls. The Avenue of the righteous with several thousand trees bearing the names of those who worked to save the Jews from the Nazis as well as the moving Hall of Names. From here you'll head to the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus went to pray after the Last Supper and was betrayed by his disciple, Judas. A visit to the Church of All Nations is also on the itinerary here. Then you’ll stop for a buffet lunch before hitting Jerusalem’s old town. Here the stellar line-up of sights includes The Church of the Holy Sepulchre and Golgotha, where Jesus was crucified and buried. And the Western Wall - Judaism's most holy site and where worshippers gather to pray. Just so you know.. The minimum age for this tour is 10 years old. £75.00/£40.00 (10hrs)



Shore excursion and prices are subject to change and latest prices will be available onboard the ship.

Nazareth & The Sea of Galilee
Everyone’s heard of Nazareth - it’s packed with religious sites. On this full day tour you’ll get to see some of the most famous. Your first stop is the Church of the Annunciation, built on the site where the Angel Gabriel is said to have visited Mary. Next you’ll visit the Church of St Joseph, where it’s thought Joseph’s workshop once stood. You’ll get some free time to shop in the Arab bazaar. From here you’ll travel through the village of Kana where Jesus turned water into wine to the Sea of Galilee. After a buffet lunch, visit Capernaum and Tabgha, where the feeding of the 5,000 took place and see the Mount of the Beatitudes, where the Sermon on the Mount was delivered. Finally, you’ll drive to the River Jordan at Yardenit to see the place where Jesus was baptised. Just so you know … remember to cover your shoulders & knees. It’s an approx. 1 hr drive to Nazareth £73.00/£38.00 (9 hrs)

Acre, The Crusader's Kingdom & Bahai Gardens
Make sure you have your camera with you for this one. Your first stop is Mount Carmel, and the look-out point next to the Stella Maris monastery. You’ll have a panoramic view over Haifa’s bay and parts of northern Israel. Next stop will be an observation point at the Bahai Shrine, home to the largest hanging gardens in the world. You’ll then drive around the bay to Acre, the oldest city in the northern region. Age-wise, the city is over 500 years old, and you’ll get a real feel for it as you wander its narrow alleyways. The centre you see today was built in the 18th century from the ruins of an old crusader citadel. The newly excavated Crusader’s halls and a Templar tunnel are among the spoils you can explore here. Just so you know … a visit to the Bahai Gardens is not included but the view from the observation point is breathtaking! £31.00/£21.00(5 hrs)

Herod the Great's Ceasarea & Mount Carmel
Leaving Haifa, a drive along the coast will bring you to Caesarea, a city which Herod the Great dedicated to Emperor Augustus over 2,000 years ago. Excavations have turned up Herod’s palace, a theatre, a Byzantine market place, fortifications and a moat built by crusaders. The visitors’ centre includes an impressive multimedia presentation teaching you all about life in ancient Israel. Before you head off, don’t miss the impressive aqueduct. From Caesarea, you’ll head back via Mount Carmel and the look-out point at the Stella Maris monastery. On a clear day you can see for miles across Haifa’s bay and the lush Bahai gardens. A short drive through Haifa rounds off the day. £33.00/£23.00 (5 hrs)

Safed, Kibbutz Visit & The Golan Heights
Safed – the highest city in Israel – is the first stop on this full-day tour. It’s more than 3,000 feet above sea level, so you’ll be able to see for miles. On a clear day you’ll even be able to see the border with Lebanon and the Sea of Galilee. The town is seriously old, and you’ll really feel this when you’re walking the cobbled streets and exploring the ancient synagogue quarter. You’ll also get chance to explore the area that’s a magnet for artists. Then you will desend towards the Sea of Galilee and cross the River Jordan as you head to Kibbutz Kfar Harub on the Golan Heights. Here you will get a guided tour of the Kibbutz, before stopping for lunch. The final stop of the day is at Yardenit, the place where Jesus was baptised. It’s also where the River Jordan meets the Sea of Galilee. Just so you know ... The drive to Safed is about 2 hours. You may wish to take a swimming costume should you wish to enter the water at Yardenit. £71.00/£36.00 (10 hrs)


Jerusalem & Bethlehem
Jews, Christians, Muslims – they all hold this place dear. Sights here represent each of the faiths. Kicking things off is a fly-by driving tour, passing the Israeli parliament building known as the Knesset, the Museum of Israel and the Shrine of the Book. It’s the best way to see the city sights. Next you’ll drive to the top of the Mount of Olives. Named after its olive tree-planted slopes, this place is thought to be where the dead will be resurrected on Judgement Day. The views from here are epic. From here, you’ll head for the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus went to pray after the Last Supper and was betrayed by his disciple Judas. A visit to the Church of All Nations is also on the itinerary here. It’s followed by a walk through the old city following the path Jesus took as he carried his cross to Calvary, a visit the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, the site of Jesus’ crucifixion, burial and resurrection and a glimpse of the shimmering mosques of Al-Aqsa and The Dome of the Rock. You’ll also stop off at the Western Wall, the place where Orthodox Jews nod in prayer and put prayer notes into the cracks of the wall. Finally, you’ll head to Bethlehem for lunch in a restaurant, and to see one of Christianity’s most sacred sights – the Church of the Nativity. Built on the same site as the stable where Mary gave birth to Jesus. Just so you know … Your guide for the Jerusalem part of the tour is not permitted to accompany you through to Bethlehem. Therefore, your new guide will meet you once you pass through the border. Also, more time will be spent sightseeing in Jerusalem than in Bethlehem. Finally, a visit of the cave in the Church of Nativity is not included. £73.00/£38.00 (11hrs)

Shore excursions and prices are subject to change and latest prices will be available onboard the ship.

Paphos
Here’s your chance to see Paphos, one of the most beautiful parts of Cyprus. The drive here alone will have you reaching for your camera. You’ll pass through neatly-rowed vineyards and zesty orange groves. Take in the world famous Petra tou Romiou - otherwise known as Aphrodite’s Rock - where the goddess of love is said to have risen from the sea. And visit the catacomb of Saint Solomoni to see some of its 12th-century frescoes. Legend has it that the tree at the entrance is sacred and it can cure the ailments of those who hang a gift on its branches. While you're in Paphos, you'll take a look at the underground Tombs of the Kings - a necropolis dating back to the 4th century BC. Interestingly enough, despite the regal title, no kings were actually buried here – just some wealthy aristocrats. But with their magnificent Doric columns and frescoed walls, they were, and still are, fit for royalty. Last but by no means least, you’ll finish off with some time to yourself for a laid-back wander round the town’s harbour. Then it’s back to Limassol where your ship awaits. £26.00/£16.00 (4.5hrs)

Curium & Omodos
Some real gems surround Limassol and this is your chance to see two of them. Your day kicks off with a scenic drive through the lush vineyards and fragrant citrus groves of Phassouri. You’ll come to the Greco-Roman site of Curium, perched on a cliff-top high above the sparkling Mediterranean. Take a look at the beautiful mosaic floors and the baths of Efstolios House, as well as the open-air theatre which serves up jaw-dropping views. Afterwards, make a beeline for the quaint village of Omodos. Here, taste the superb local wine. Buy some of the delicate lacework for which the place is well known. And wander the cobbled streets that wrap themselves around the Monastery of the Holy Cross. You’ll actually get to go inside the church for a look around, before going to an old wine press. On your way back, pass through the old quarter of Limassol where you’ll get some time for a wander or a spot of shopping before heading back to your ship. £26.00/£16.00 (4hrs)

Shore excursion and prices are subject to change and latest prices will be available onboard the ship.