Explore every corner of Valletta, renowned for its TV history cameo, with an overnight stay enabling you to explorefrom St. John's Co-Cathedral to St. Paul's Bay. Capture the mesmerizing salt pans of Trapani by day or on a sunset tour, with extended evening time in port. Enjoy a late night in Syracuse, providing an opportunity to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Noto, a Baroque architectural masterpiece that comes to life when illuminated after dark.
Highlights
Explore Malta's pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters
Explore Valletta's historic architecture and art
Stroll along charming limestone streets and immerse in local culture
Visit UNESCO World Heritage Site of Noto, Baroque architecture
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
The capital of Malta, Valletta, is a treasure trove of architecture and art. The sight of this fortress city immediately astounds the senses. For the pop culture aficionado, Valletta’s scenery served as the backdrop for the Streets of Flea Bottom in HBO’s hit series Game of Thrones. Along the Grand Harbor travelers can capture spectacular views of the deep blue of the Mediterranean Sea. Walk along its limestone streets gazing at the colorful apartments, it is easy to get lost in wanderlust.
Syracuse holds many wonders for venturesome travelers seeking something far from the ordinary. From archaeological parks to World War II battlefield remnants to the Plemmirio Nature Reserve, the vast and diverse environment contains any level of challenge for explorers at heart. It holds 2,700 years of history with influence from other cultures like Spanish, Greek, Norman, and Arabic that have made a mark on cuisine. It is also a gateway to various small villages that are perfect for leisurely strolls through local history. Among the most notable is Noto, the “Baroque Capital” of the world. This UNESCO-protected city holds all the charms of small-town living on the island.
From Giardini Naxos through Taormina holds a diverse landscape that includes white, sandy beaches that call out to visitors to come and play. Taormina holds a treasure trove, whether it’s the Palazzo Corvaja or Duomo di San Nicola, of ancient atmospheres that entice exploration. As wanderers roam the grounds of the Ancient Greek Theater built directly into the mountains, standing amid such ruins transports everyone back to ancient live theater. The surrounding peaks of Mount Etna provide an exhilarating environment. Its various foothills and pathways make it the perfect site for hiking.
Off the coast of Sicily, the volcanic Aeolian Islands can be found, the largest of which is Lipari. But not to worry, as the island’s last eruption took place over 1,000 years ago and the only signs of volcanic activity today are fumaroles and thermal springs. From a place in ancient Greek mythology to UNESCO World Heritage status, the Aeolian Islands and Lipari hold a rich and intriguing history. Seek the ultimate views with an invigorating hike through Monte Rosa. Archaeological excavations within the citadel reveal a story dating as far back as the Neolithic era.
From the lively capital in Palermo to the fertile valley of Monreale to Cefalu on the Tyrrhenian Coast, Sicily offers incredible history, architecture, and gastronomy. Palermo serves as the gateway to the past, with royal tombs and a fascinating Regional Archeological Museum that houses sculptures and artifacts from Sicily’s past. Not far from Palermo, further architectural language can be expanded by witnessing the Cathedral of Monreale, a stunning example of the Norman style. And in Cefalu, the site of ancient Roman baths, where a Baroque-style cathedral now stands, can be seen. Wherever the trip takes in Sicily, save room for the best cannoli in all of Italy.
In a crescent-shaped coastline on the west end of Sicily, the Italian city of Trapani is located. From many of its landmarks and historic sites, views of the surrounding Aegean Islands and Tyrrhenian Sea can be discovered. Ligny Tower, located on the west coast overlooking the Sicilian Channel, stands as a proud symbol of the city. When it’s time for a lunch break, a stop at a local restaurant is recommended, and ordering the red prawns of Mazara del Vallo, known as ammaru russu in Sicilian, is a must. Trapani also lies beneath Mount Erice, the gateway to the archaeological site of Selinunte.
Spend the day on the high seas pampering oneself at the spa or enjoying some time on deck. Mingle with fellow explorers and swap stories of exploits, making plans for new ones together once getting to shore.
The town and commune of Porto Empedocle on the coast of the Strait of Sicily leads the way to the province of Agrigento. Here lies the connection between ancient Greece and Italy, with a smattering of ruins to explore, from the Valley of the Temples to the Temple of Juno. Spend a pleasant beach day at Lido Azzurro, lying on warm golden sands with a blue sky and sea stretching as far as the eye can see. Take a stroll through Jardin de la Kolymbethra, amid olive, citrus, and almond trees, terebinth, myrtle, and many other plants.
Day 9: Gozo | Valletta
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
The Mediterranean Island Gozo is one of 21 that make up the archipelago nation of Malta. But it’s perhaps best known as Calypso’s Isle, as described in Homer’s The Odyssey. With scenes of fishing villages, serene bays, and verdant landscapes among rolling hills with small farms, it offers a quaint backdrop for a quieter adventure. But Gozo also offers ancient ruins and historic landmarks like the gantija Temples, one of the island’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites and a Neolithic limestone structure. Near the port of Mgarr is a popular beach for snorkeling and a secluded day of relaxation, Mgarr ix-Xini.
Day 10: Valletta | Disembark
1 Breakfast
Valletta, the capital of Malta, is a treasure trove of architecture and art. The sight of this fortress city immediately astounds the senses. For pop culture aficionados, Valletta’s scenery served as the backdrop for the Streets of Flea Bottom in HBO’s hit series Game of Thrones. Along the Grand Harbor, travelers can capture spectacular views of the deep blue of the Mediterranean Sea. When walking along its limestone streets and gazing at the colorful apartments, it is easy to get lost in wanderlust.
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Adventure Oceanview Stateroom (AO)
Located: Deck 3
Occupancy: Up to 2 guests
• 183 sq. ft.
• Sitting area with chair, desk and TV
Horizon Stateroom (A2)
Located: Deck 5 and 6
Occupancy: Up to 2 guests
• 270 sq. ft. including floor-to-ceiling Juliette Balcony with top-drop electric window
• Sitting area with sofa and TV
Horizon Stateroom (A1)
Located: Deck 5 and 6
Occupancy: Up to 2 guests
• 270 sq. ft. including floor-to-ceiling Juliette Balcony with top-drop electric window
• Sitting area with sofa and TV
Veranda Stateroom (B2)
Located: Deck 5 and 6
Occupancy: Up to 2 guests
• 270 sq. ft. (including balcony)
• Sitting area with sofa and TV
Veranda Stateroom (B1)
Located: Deck 5 and 6
Occupancy: Up to 2 guests
• 270 sq. ft. (including balcony)
• Sitting area with sofa and TV
Veranda Deluxe Stateroom (E2)
Located: Deck 6
Occupancy: Up to 3 guests
• 300 sq. ft. (including balcony)
• Living room with sofa and vanity
Horizon Deluxe Stateroom (E1)
Located: Deck 6
Occupancy: Up to 2 guests
• 300 sq. ft. including floor-to-ceiling Juliette • Balcony with top-drop electric window
• Interior seating area with sofa and TV
Journey Suite (JS)
Located: Deck 5 and 6
Occupancy: Up to 3 guests
• 382 sq. ft.
• Oversized private balcony with teak furnishings
• Walk-in closet and wardrobe
• Living room with sofa and vanity
• Includes 2 wall-mounted TVs with “infotainment” system
Discovery Suite (DS)
Located: Deck 5
Occupancy: Up to 2 guests
• 445 sq. ft.
• Oversized private balcony with teak furnishings
• Walk-in closet and wardrobe
• Living room with sofa and vanity
• Includes 2 wall-mounted TVs with “infotainment” system
Navigator Suite (NS)
Located: Deck 5 and 6
Occupancy: Up to 3 guests
• 465 sq. ft.
• Oversized private balcony with teak furnishings
• Double sinks and tub
• Walk-in closet and wardrobe
• Living room with sofa and vanity
• Includes 2 wall-mounted TVs with “infotainment” system
Initial deposit is $1000/pp for stateroom and/or $1500/pp for suite rooms, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 130 days prior to departure by Credit Card, Wire/bank Transfer
For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.
Included
9 Breakfasts, 8 Lunches, 9 Dinners
8 Nights Accommodations
Accommodations as listed
Ground transportation as listed
Activities as listed
Meals as listed
Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
Pre-Paid Gratuities
Unlimited beverages, including fine wines, spirits and craft beers
Open bars and lounges, including 24-hour bar service with specialty canapes
In-room minibar with your preferences
Specialty coffees, teas and fresh-pressed juices
Champagne and gourmet canapes during meet and greet
24-hour room service, including spirits, wine and beer
L'OCCITANE bath amenities
Atlas Ocean Voyages provides an Emergency Medical and Trip Delay Travel Protection plan on your behalf. The plan includes reimbursement for expenses such as trip cancellation, trip delays, baggage loss, medical situations and more.
While not required, we strongly recommend that all our guests purchase additional travel insurance with increased maximum reimbursement. Please refer to the plan documentation at HERE for specific terms, conditions.
Excluded
Travel Insurance
Personal Expenses
Flight costs (please request a quote)
Additional excursions during free time
Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
The trip might have been the absolute best of our lifetime (thus far). We particularly want to commend our guide Peter in the Guilin area-he was so incredibly attentive, energetic, enthusiastic-and absolutely dedicated to ensuring that our meals were 100% vegetarian.
I selected Adventure Travel as I was not satisfied with the responsiveness of the agent for the cruise I was trying to book and it had good recommendations. So far, I am quite happy with my agent, Betty, very responsive and accommodating.
charles
4 hours ago
Jess was great. Our plans changed and we had to make some adjustments and she was super helpful. Finding us a cost-effective alternative to our original trip plan.
Glenn
5 hours ago
Erin was great to work with! Very quick with her replies and provided all the information I needed, no matter how many times I changed my request! This was my first time ever planning a trip like this and it couldn't have gone better.