Artistic Explorations
10-day Cruise from Venice to Rome onboard Insignia
A celebration of Italy and beyond, this voyage strings together the true pearls of the Mediterranean. Meander through the winding streets of Positano, sampling a fresh-baked focaccia dusted with pecorino cheese. Zip around Venice on a vaporetto at dusk and marvel at the city lights twinkling on the Grand Canal. Explore the Tuscan gem of Pisa, stopping at the famed Field of Miracles before delving deeper into the neighborhood of Mezzogiorno, which is enclosed by a 12th century wall. Reminders of medieval times are prevalent throughout this voyage and include whole towns like Montenegro's beautifully preserved Kotor. For a different perspective of Mediterranean life, see the thousands of live marine specimens in Monte Carlo's seaside Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium.
View Details
Enchanted Rivieras
12-day Cruise from Rome to Venice onboard Marina
This extraordinary voyage encompasses three Rivieras - the French, Italian and Dalmatian - and in doing so presents their most beloved resort cities. In Cannes, the epitome of the radiant French Riviera, enjoy a shopping spree in the haute couture boutiques along the boulevard La Croisette and then people watch. For the most panoramic view of picturesque Portofino and the surrounding Italian Riviera, simply follow the well-marked path to the hilltop Castle Brown and its gardens. In Dubrovnik, the anchor of the beautiful Dalmatian Riviera, be sure to visit the Cathedral of the Blessed Virgin Mary, a Baroque treasure. For the pleasures inherent and apparent in larger cities, there is the legendary art found in Florence and the countless historic sites in Rome.
View Details
Epicurean Connoisseur
16-day Cruise from Barcelona to Copenhagen onboard Marina
This indulgent voyage celebrates the good life, especially the epicurean pleasures so associated with this region of Europe. While spending the night in Bordeaux, you may dine at the sumptuous 18th century Château Kirwan and partake of the storied local vintages. An evening in Copenhagen encourages an unhurried pace, as well, so feel free to linger over a traditional Danish meal, such as roast duck stuffed with tart apples and sweet prunes. Casablanca promises the rare treat of dining on authentic Moroccan cuisine, which is often flavored with prickly pear, pomegranates or dates. Charcoal-grilled sardines are a favorite summer dish throughout Lisbon, especially when accompanied by a glass of dry white wine from the nearby Bucelas region, and then a classic after-dinner port.
View Details
Footsteps of History
14-day Cruise from Venice to Barcelona onboard Insignia
In her final Western Mediterranean voyages before starting her transoceanic journey to South America, Insignia presents a collection of truly memorable destinations handpicked from a full season of sailing these storied waters. While on
Croatia's fertile Hvar Island, toast the pleasures that lie ahead with a fine Dalmatian wine, such as a garnet-colored Dingac, which goes splendidly with grilled fish. Similarly, much of the cuisine on Corfu is flavored with Greek olives
grown throughout the island. For those with artistic tastes, Naples features exceptional museums like the Palace and Museum of Capodimonte, a repository of major works by Raphael and El Greco. It's a wonderful prelude to Florence, where art and architecture are woven into the very fabric of life. To experience the joie de vivre so ingrained into the south of France, simply venture into the Provence countryside. This magical voyage presents Valencia, a traditional Spanish jewel dotted with futuristic landmarks like its City of Arts and Science, before ending in vibrant Barcelona.
View Details
Gems of Europe
15-day Cruise from Rome to Greenwich onboard Insignia
If you created your own itinerary of European favorites, it would resemble the destinations on this magical voyage. These are the marquee ports so spellbinding it's impossible to tire of them, no matter how many times you visit. Just as Seville bewitches with icons like the famed Giralda Tower, Florence boasts the Uffizi and its priceless collection of Renaissance paintings. In the heavenly south of France, there's down-to-earth Marseille and the lavender-scented rolling hills of Provence. Barcelona anchors Spain's beach-blessed Costa Brava and captivates gourmands with its famed tapas and Cava sparkling wine. Not to be outdone, Portugal's prosperous Oporto produces an exquisite fortified port wine that has become its signature. Every destination is a multi-faceted, irresistible gem.
View Details
Historic Reflections
10-day Cruise from Barcelona to Athens onboard Insignia
Reflecting the heart and soul of the Mediterranean, this exquisite voyage is so popular it's offered four times on three different ships. A late-night departure in Monte Carlo allows time to fly over the French Riviera in a helicopter and to try your luck in the opulent casino overlooking the harbor. A journey up the winding path to town is one of the more breathtaking ways to see the volcanic island of Santorini. Stunning art and architecture also distinguish this cruise, especially in Florence, where Michelangelo's glorious David stands tall above the onlookers in the Accademia Gallery, and in Rome, site of the stately Pantheon. For more ancient wonders, wander the ruins in Ephesus such as the Library
of Celsius, and immerse yourself in the Old Port in Marseille, which was founded in 600 B.C.
View Details
Ionian Inspiration
12-day Cruise from Rome to Venice onboard Insignia
Rarely does a voyage this long spend each day ashore, but the attractions in this part of the Mediterranean are too magnificent to miss. Soar over dazzling Monte Carlo and the Maritime Alps in a helicopter. Walk the seaside trail linking the five neighboring villages of Cinque Terre. The cliffside setting of Sorrento is equally moving, as is the magnificent old Venetian quarter in Greece's charming Corfu Town. Still, the most revealing ports are the two where you will spend the evening. The extra time in Dubrovnik allows a carefree tour of the Old Town and perhaps an excursion further afield to Cavtat. A night in Venice expands the possibilities to include a gondola ride under the stars, followed by an unhurried,
romantic dinner at a waterfront trattoria.
View Details
Legacies of Antiquity
12-day Cruise from Rome to Istanbul onboard Marina
This voyage is defined by its exceptional multi-cultural itinerary, as Marina calls on six immensely different countries. In Italy alone, behold the infinite treasures in Florence and explore medieval Cagliari and resurgent Palermo, the respective capitals of the autonomous Italian islands of Sardinia and Sicily. While Baroque palaces lend Valletta an Italian charm, it is definitely Maltese and traces its roots to the 16th century, when the Knights of St. John took control. Greek flaunts its historical diversity in Athens, considered the cradle of Western civilization, and modern Volos, a city not even founded until the mid-19th century. Tunis also has an intriguing modern district, but be sure to venture to the nearby Roman ruins of Carthage, a deserving World Heritage Site.
View Details
Majestic Inspiration
14-day Cruise from Venice to Barcelona onboard Nautica
A feeling of serenity and repose permeates this phenomenal voyage, as you will spend each day in port, often departing late and twice spending the evening. There is simply never, ever a reason to rush while ashore. Linger in elegant Monte Carlo, confident that time permits you to even board the train and visit nearby Nice. An overnight stay in Livorno allows ample time to stroll through Siena and San Gimignano, two medieval jewels in the rolling Tuscan hills. While in Marseille, feel free to venture deep into idyllic Provence and take in the brilliant lavender and sunflowers that so inspired Van Gogh. Another fine opportunity to relax awaits you in Split, known for its gorgeous beaches and Marjan Forest Park, a green retreat shaded by towering pines.
View Details
Mediterranean Grandeur
12-day Cruise from Monte Carlo to Venice onboard Insignia
The great joys of this voyage are endless opportunities to explore ashore. Of course, not every moment has to be overly industrious, so be sure to enjoy relaxing activities such as basking in the glamour of chic Cannes. In the same manner, leisurely browsing the priceless art in Florence's Uffizi Gallery may prove to be more pleasurable and insightful than rushing about from museum to museum. Meander through the medieval streets of Kotor, and you'll notice the architecture's Venetian flair, a reminder that the Republic of Venice once ruled Montenegro. With even more time in Dubrovnik, where Insignia spends the evening, you might sample its culinary delicacies and distinct wines. An evening in Venice allows an unhurried visit to the island of Murano to watch the artisans create exquisite glasswork.
View Details
Mediterranean Mosaic
10-day Cruise from Rome to Venice onboard Marina
It's no wonder half of this voyage is devoted
to Italy - its absolutely magical. The inspired itinerary blends icons such as Florence with smaller boutique jewels like Cinque Terre, enabling Italy's true character and cultural diversity to emerge. Watch the Murano glassblowers practice their delicate artistry in Venice. Gaze upon snow-capped Mt. Etna from the ruins of Taormina's amphitheater. Sip a demitasse of espresso in a shaded square in Amalfi, content in knowing you can linger for hours. The experiences are equally gratifying in the other countries, as they welcome you with open arms. Walk atop the medieval walls in Dubrovnik. Tour Corfu's lavish Achillion Palace, admiring the furnishings based on Greek history and mythology. It's a rare treat to see such an assemblage of destinations.
View Details
Mediterranean Rhapsody
14-day Cruise from Istanbul to Barcelona onboard Insignia
Bridging nearly the entire length of the Mediterranean, this far-reaching voyage reveals many of the contrasts that make southern Europe so vastly appealing. The chariot-worn streets of
ancient Ephesus couldn't be more different than the winding Corniche that leads to glamorous Monte Carlo. The historic monuments in the heart of Rome are too numerous to even fathom, while just down the coast in tiny Amalfi natural beauty is the attraction. One day you might ramble through the labyrinthine alleyways of Istanbul's cacophonous Grand Bazaar, and another day do nothing more enterprising than stroll along the serene beaches of Kavala, or ease into a waterfront café in Rhodes for a baklava dripping with honey syrup.
It's these unexpected pleasures that make this voyage so alluring.
View Details
Mediterranean Tapestry
14-day Cruise from Venice to Barcelona onboard Insignia
This alluring voyage begins with an evening in Venice that allows for deep exploration, even offshore to the island of Murano to watch the artisans blow delicate Venetian glass. For an architectural taste of Greece's fertile Corfu, a tour
of Achilleion Palace is simply unparalleled. Then, it's back to Italy for a full week, beginning with a stop in Taormina, a Sicilian jewel of secluded gardens and medieval squares. Behold miniature Amalfi, clinging to a precipitous coastal
ravine. Delve into the art and architecture of urbane Rome, a blend of old and new that blankets its legendary seven hills. Delight in Monaco's posh Monte Carlo, a wonderful counterpoint to down-to-earth Marseille, a lively multicultured
French city that is undergoing a renaissance, particularly around the Old Port.
View Details
Pearls of the Riviera
10-day Cruise from Barcelona to Rome onboard Marina
Sheer joy is the overriding emotion on this voyage as it focuses on the most sun-drenched, fun-loving ports in the western Mediterranean. Spend a relaxing day lounging about the glamorous beaches of Saint-Tropez such as Plage des Graniers. Browse Positano's tony boutiques and then cruise the breathtaking Amalfi coast in a small private boat. Meander through the former house of Joan Miró in Palma de Mallorca, now a museum housing the artist's most innovative work. A casual mood follows wherever you go, inviting carefree exploration. Sip a deep-yellow limoncello, Sorrento's signature liquor, after lunch in a sidewalk café. Stroll the ancient waterfront in Marseille, watching fishing boats bob in the harbor. Ease through Valencia's artsy El Carmen district, tracing its medieval walls.
View Details
Roman Interlude
10-day Cruise from Rome to Barcelona onboard Regatta
Deliciously compact, this voyage excels at focusing on one extraordinary region at a time, presenting it in the very best light. Regatta begins on the western shore of Italy in robust Naples, where pizza was invented in the shadow of Mount Vesuvius. One of the finest collections of treasures excavated from Pompeii is on display in its esteemed National Archaeological Museum. On Italy's handsomely rugged Sardinia, Porto Cervo tantalizes with its signature cuisine that revolves around fresh seafood. France's equally magnetic Corsica and its insouciant capital of Ajaccio lie
nearby. The Iles Sanguinares in the Gulf of Ajaccio are spectacular for bird watching and beachcombing. On the French mainland, Marseille exudes an unpretentious charm and serves as the gateway to mesmerizing Provence. Spain's urbane Palma de Mallorca bears a wonderful Moorish heritage, evident in its medieval Banys Arabs bathhouse.
View Details
Splendid Escapes
10-day Cruise from Rome to Athens onboard Nautica
The common thread throughout this voyage is the opportunity to truly escape from the ordinary in each destination. After a glorious day exploring in Florence, settle in at one of Livorno's uniquely unpretentious restaurants for cacciucco, a zesty fish stew that has become a signature dish. If you are feeling ambitious, climb the 850-some steps to Nauplion's 18th century Palamidi Fortress for an unforgettable view of the sea. Enjoy the rare chance to try your luck at Trente et Quarante, a 17th century card game still played in Monte Carlo's casino. Drive into the rugged Costa Smeralda countryside from Porto Cervo, stopping at the ruins of a prehistoric Nuraghi village. Ruins are also synonymous with Ephesus, but there are wonderful alternatives such as shopping in nearby Kusadasi's bazaar.
View Details
Sun-Splashed Rivieras
12-day Cruise from Monte Carlo to Venice onboard Regatta
This radiant voyage celebrates the sun by immediately calling on the French and Italian Rivieras. First, it's the new port of Cannes, an icon on the Côte d'Azur that tempts with glamorous beaches and, for a more unusual perspective, a boat ride to the monastery on nearby Ile St. Honorat. La Spezia represents the Italian Riviera with its beautiful rugged coastline and colorful terraced homes built right to the edge of the cliffs. As counterpoints, larger more cosmopolitan ports soon follow, including timeless Rome, a shopper's delight, especially for exquisite jewelry in areas such as the Piazza San Silvestro. This voyage also features two overnight stays along the Adriatic Sea, beginning with Dubrovnik, a medieval star on the Croatian Riviera that George Bernard Shaw once described as "heaven on earth." A second evening is spent
in Venice, where a romantic starlit walk along the canals may be accompanied by the hypnotic singing of the gondoliers.
View Details
Tastes of Europe
16-day Cruise from London to Rome onboard Marina
As one of our esteemed "Jacques Pépin Cruises," this voyage features live cooking demonstrations, culinary events and special menus by our legendary Executive Culinary Director and Master Chef Pépin. Gourmands will find the opportunities onboard and ashore irresistible as Marina calls on more than a dozen destinations renowned for their cuisine,
wine and artistry. Paris and Bordeaux are among the gastronomic headliners in France. Portugal impresses with an excursion in historic Oporto that tours a wine cellar and offers samples of the city's famed fortified port. For connoisseurs of
art and architecture, Seville mesmerizes with its 17th century Alcazar, a Moorish palace set among stately gardens. This cruise even dips into white-walled Casablanca to partake of the many charms of Morocco.
View Details
Venetian Radiance
14-day Cruise from Barcelona to Venice onboard Insignia
Admittedly, this voyage has a bias toward Italy, and that's the beauty of it. More than a week is spent in Italy's most alluring destinations, including overnight stays in Venice and Livorno. The latter is a rare indulgence that allows time to venture far into the Tuscan countryside to both Florence and Pisa, two icons of art and architecture. A late departure from Sorrento also permits deeper exploration, so feel free to ride a jetfoil to chic Capri for a day of shopping and then watch an amusing musical comedy in the historic Tasso Theater at night. Similarly Insignia remains in Monte Carlo until late in the evening, granting you the luxury of relaxing on Larvotto Beach and later dining on the waterfront. One of the most celebrated Côte d'Azur dishes is bouillabaisse, a specialty also served throughout Marseille.
View Details
Vineyards and Vignettes
14-day Cruise from London to Barcelona onboard Insignia
This amazing voyage is destination-rich, as it doesn't spend even a day at sea. The overnight stays provide even more time ashore - the first being in Rouen, gateway to the joys of Paris, and the second in Bordeaux, an historic city as ravishing as its vineyard-dotted countryside. Guernsey's interior is pastoral as well, a contrast to the rugged cliffs that define the shoreline near St. Peter Port. As Insignia rounds the Iberian Peninsula, Spain flaunts its diversity. Perched on the country's northwestern corner, modern La Coruña is revered for its beaches. Founded by the Romans over 2,000 years ago, Valencia bears a more traditional feel in the form of its medieval architecture, particularly in the El Carmen district. It's a fine setting to dine on authentic paella, a dish that originated in Valencia.
View Details