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Naples at Sunset, Italy

Dreaming of Sicilian Sun

Naples - Catania - Example 8 Day Cruise aboard Sea Cloud
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Experience the best of Italy's Mediterranean treasures on an 8-day cruise. From Naples to Catania, traverse the UNESCO-listed old town with its majestic fortresses, churches, bustling squares, and streets, all set against the backdrop of the mesmerizing Gulf. Delve into the world of craftsmanship as you uncover exquisite black and red coral jewelry. Venture to the medieval wonderland of Erice, surrounded by volcanic soil, fragrant orange and lemon groves, sandy beaches, and the architectural splendor of UNESCO-listed Baroque wonders.
Mount Etna looms over an ancient townVisit charming coastal towns of SicilyVisit charming small towns in coastal ItalyMt Etna VolcanoOrange TreeNaples at Sunset, Italy
Highlights
  • Visit Greek temples and Sicilian Baroque architectural gems
  • Discover Ponza's pastel-hued island, beaches, and Roman history.
  • Explore Naples, sea-view amphitheater city, UNESCO old town, & Gulf vistas
Places Visited
Activity Level: Variable
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.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Naples | Embark

Rising from the sea around a huge bay, extending into the hills like an amphitheater, the view from Castello Sant' Elmo on the Vomero reveals a fantastic panorama of houses, the port, and the Gulf. The old town in this Campanian city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring imposing fortresses, stately churches, monasteries, grand squares, palaces, and a labyrinth of winding streets.

Day 2: Ponza

Unaware of your approach to Ponza's port, one might mistake it for a theatrical backdrop. This idyllic town on the hilly island resembles an amphitheater, with its harbor acting as a stage adorned with pastel-colored houses. Ponza offers a haven of romantic seclusion, featuring hidden picturesque beaches nestled within bays surrounded by rugged cliffs, accessible only by boat. Fortunately, the secret of this enchanting place remains well-preserved, making it an insider's gem for Romans and Neapolitans who choose it for weekend getaways.

Day 3: At Sea

Climbing the rigging, untying ropes, and setting sails – today is all about sailing. It's time to lean back, relax in a deck chair, and witness the passionate crew hoisting the sails by hand.

Day 4: Lipari | Aeolian Islands

Lipari is a tranquil little spot, the largest of the Aeolian Islands, boasting a cultural heritage spanning over 6,000 years. From the first glance, one can observe its volcanic legacy, with rock formations resembling sculptures. The entire group of islands holds UNESCO World Heritage status. The Aeolian Museum rests on the castle hill, housing an impressive collection of prehistoric and ancient artifacts from this volcanic archipelago. The southern Italian way of life in this little port is remarkably infectious.

Day 5: Trapani

The old town and port of Trapani rest on a picturesque crescent-shaped headland at the foot of Monte Erice. Many little treasures await discovery while browsing the beautiful town center. Fine black and red coral jewelry production has thrived here for the last 1,000 years. The mountain town of Erice stands as an architectural gem, tucked away in a picturesque hilltop setting overlooking the countryside and the sea, defiantly protected by a wall, preserving its splendid medieval atmosphere.

Day 6: Agrigento | Porto Empedocle

The city of Porto Empedocle on Sicily's sun-soaked southwestern coast lies only six kilometers from Agrigento — serving as an ideal base for exploring the legendary archaeological sites. Spanning 1,300 hectares, Agrigento's Valley of the Temples boasts ten impressive Doric temples, three sanctuaries, a necropolis, statues, mosaics, and fortifications. These excellently preserved ruins of the ancient city have held UNESCO World Heritage status since 1997. If a respite is needed after visiting the Hera, Concordia, and Demeter temples, tranquility can be found in the fragrant Garden of Kolymbethra, surrounded by lemon trees and rosemary.

Day 7: Syracus

The municipal area of Syracuse features relics from cultural history spanning more than three millennia. In ancient times, this city was the most powerful in the known world, renowned for its splendor. Ortigia Island, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, marked the inception of Syracuse as an ancient city. The central cathedral, grand palaces adorning the Piazza, and inviting wide promenades define the old town. The archaeological park vividly resurrects Greek and Roman history. Syracuse exudes the charm of southern Italy, with laundry hanging outside the windows.

Day 8: Catania | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
Goethe wrote, "Know the land where lemon trees bloom, oranges glow..." Sicily and the picturesque Baroque town of Catania, nestled at the foot of Mount Etna, served as inspirations during travels around Italy. In the fertile volcanic soil surrounding Catania, orange and lemon trees vie for brilliance, tempting one to savor the coastline with its splendid sandy beaches and striking rock formations. The town witnessed destruction due to a volcanic eruption and earthquake in the 17th century, leading to the emergence of an 18th-century Roman Baroque masterpiece, now designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Ship/Hotel

Sea Cloud

A beautiful view from the deck

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

This itinerary is no longer available. For other trip ideas, please visit Mediterranean Small Ship Cruises.
A Category 5 cabin
Category 5
These approx. 9.5 m2/102 sq ft cabins with their upper and lower single beds (each 80 cm x 200 cm) once accommodated the ship’s officers, and their original features exude a romantic charm. These cabins can be ventilated with fresh air both day and night as the cabin door leads directly to the Promenade Deck beneath the bridge.
A Category 4 cabin
Category 4
These cabins are each approx. 10.5 m2/113 sq ft and located on the Promenade Deck. They are furnished similarly to Cat. 3 cabins.
A Category 3 Twin-Bed Cabin
Category 3
Located on the Promenade Deck, each of these outside cabins also features panorama windows, a marble bathroom with a fitted shower and a substantially sized wardrobe. They are approx. 12.5 m2/135 sq ft in size with two single beds (each 80 cm x 200 cm).
A Category 2 Twin-Bed Cabin
Category 2
Each of these cabins features a marble bathroom with a fitted shower, two single beds (each 80 cm x 200 cm) which can be placed together, a substantially sized wardrobe and additional built-in storage space. Their location on the Captain’s and Lido Deck and their design, featuring two panorama windows, mean these approx. 13.5 m2/145 sq ft cabins feel extremely bright.
A deluxe Category 1 Cabin
Category 1
These two double-bed cabins are located on the Captain’s and Lido Deck and feature unique corner panorama windows. Approx. 13 m2/140 sq ft in size, they offer a substantial wardrobe, a double bed with two mattresses (each 80 cm x 200 cm) and a spacious, elegant bathroom with a fitted shower.
Sea Cloud Category C Cabin
Category C
Warm and bright tones dominate these approx. 18-20 m2/198-215 sq ft deluxe outside cabins fitted with a double bed (160 cm x 200 cm) The cabins feature a modern elegance, generous storage space and a walk-in closet and a marble bathroom.
Category B
Main Deck. Portholes, two single beds or king bed with two separate mattresses, one or two chairs, nightstand, decorative marble fireplace, walk-in closet, safe, A/C, private bath with shower or tub.
The luxurious owner's cabin (Category A)
Category A
Main Deck. Portholes, large double bed, two armchairs, antique nightstands, table or antique secretary, decorative marble fireplace, desk, walk-in closet, safe, A/C, private bath with tub and portholes.

Notes

Rates are based on double occupancy. A limited number of cabins can be booked for individual use for an additional charge.
Included
  • 7 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 7 Dinners
  • 7 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits are available aboard the ship. Additionally, a selection of super premium wines and liquors is offered for purchase.
  • Crew gratuities
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi internet is available to all guests (connectivity permitting)
  • Gratuities
  • Port Fees
  • Welcome and Farewell Cocktails   
  • Welcome champagne in the suite/stateroom
  • Daily fresh fruit basket in suite/stateroom
  • All coffee, tea specialties and soft drinks
  • Bottled water on the excursions
  • Fine wines from renowned winemakers
  • Open bar (except premium brands)
  • Beach barbecues in select destinations
  • Marina platform with use of water sports equipment such as snorkel gear, stand-up paddleboards, and towable tube (weather permitting)
  • Laundry service in suites
  • Curated moments
  • All meals including nightly 4-course menu and a 5-course gala dinner
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Wifi

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The trip was terrific with great planning on your part. Most of the adventures were not mainstream and somewhat off the beaten path which made it especially enjoyable!! We felt taken care of and you all were readily available to respond to questions and issues. I would highly recommend your company and friends have already expressed interest based on our pictures and excitement.
Gale Cantor

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