The Best of the Mediterranean

Arrive in Valletta and transfer to the port for embarkation at 6:00 p.m. After settling into your cabin, enjoy a welcome cocktail and get to know the crew. Dinner is served on board, followed by an evening of entertainment.

Begin your morning with a visit to Valletta, Malta’s historic capital, including a stop at Saint John's Co-Cathedral. In the afternoon, explore the ancient Hagar Qim temples and the colorful fishing village of Marsaxlokk.

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Spend the day discovering the tranquil beauty of Gozo. Take in scenic views on a ferry ride, wander through the Citadel in Rabat, visit the dramatic site of the fallen Azure Window, and step back in time at the UNESCO-listed Ġgantija temples.

Conclude the day with a touch of Maltese flair back on board.

Spend the morning cruising. La Belle de L'Adriatique then raise its anchor and begin to cruise to Sicily. Join the ship's crew on the Sun Deck for a cocktail as you admire one of the most beautiful ports in the world on your way out.

Included excursion this afternoon: Ragusa and Modica
Travel back in time when visiting these lovely UNESCO World Heritage sites. In Regusa,  discover two cities in one: modern Regusa rebuilt after the 1693 earthquake and ancient Hybla Heraia. The city’s architectural gem is the Duomo of San Giorgio. You then continue on to Modica, a charming inland village snuggled on a hillside. Rebuilt after the 1693 earthquake, Modica is now a lively and dynamic city with oversized churches and steep stairs running from the bottom of the village to the top of the slope. During the tour, you stop at a chocolate factory to taste a recipe coming directly from the Aztecs.

Spend the morning cruising.

Catania in the afternoon. Located on the banks of the Ionian Sea and dominated by Mount Etna, discover vast squares, wide streets, and lava-rock buildings in this splendid city. Its historic and artistic heritage is just waiting to be discovered.

Mount Etna in the morning. Mount Etna is the largest active volcano in Europe, and you are taken up to almost 6,400 feet (1950 m) to the Silvestri Craters near the top. The bleak lava wilderness around the summit of Etna is one of the most memorable landscapes you can ever see.

Spend the afternoon cruising.

Included excursion this morning: Ortygia.
One of the most fascinating cities in Sicily awaits you today. The 2,700-year-old city of Syracuse played a key role in ancient times when it was one of the major powers of the Mediterranean world. You visit Ortygia, the small island that is the historical center of the city. Come across the majestic ruins of the Greek Temple of Apollo, the Piazza Archimede, and the Piazza Duomo, an elliptical open space lined with harmonious and impressive buildings.

This afternoon, join the team for an included excursion: Noto.
Noto and its church were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002. Totally destroyed by the 1693 Sicilian earthquake, the current town was built on the left bank of River Asinaro, about eight miles from the previous town. Enjoy a stroll through the historical center and admire the buildings, do a bit of souvenir shopping, or indulge in a snack at a local café.

In the morning, La Belle de L'Adriatique enters the Grand Harbor, also known as the Port of Valletta, a baroque-style wharf dating back to the 18th century. Imposing fortifications and impressive architecture surround the picturesque port.

This afternoon, join the team for an included excursion: Mdina.
Mdina is a veritable open-air museum. The ancient Maltese capital holds many treasures, among them several of the most beautiful homes in the country. You step back in time strolling through the labyrinth of streets lined with impressive palaces.

Tonight is a festive gala evening.

Enjoy breakfast on board this morning before disembarking at 9:00 a.m.