Greek Mediterranean Cruise
May 29 - Jun 08, 2024
Highlights:
Venice, Italy - Kotor, Montenegro – Santorini & Mykonos, Greece - Ancona, Italy
P͟a͟c͟k͟a͟g͟e͟ I͟n͟c͟l͟u͟d͟e͟s͟:
- Round Trip Airfare from JFK
- 2 Nights Hotel in Venice with Daily Breakfast
- 8 Nights Cruise with Wi-Fi & Beverages Package
- Transfers and sightseeing as per the itinerary
- Meals and entrance fees as per the itinerary
- All Known Taxes and Cruise Gratuities
Excluded:
- Any item of a personal nature
- Any optional tours/excursions
- any meals/beverages which are not mentioned under "included services"
- Visa charges
Itinerary:
Day 1: Departure to Venice
Check-in for your Delta Non-Stop flight to Venice, Italy
Day 2: Arrive in Venice, Italy
Upon arrival in Venice, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for 2 nights. Afternoon at leisure. Venice, the capital of northern Italy’s Veneto region, is built on more than 100 small islands in a lagoon in the Adriatic Sea. It has no roads, just canals – including the Grand Canal thoroughfare – lined with Renaissance and Gothic palaces. The central square, Piazza San Marco, contains St. Mark’s Basilica, which is tiled with Byzantine mosaics, and the Campanile bell tower offering views of the city’s red roofs. Overnight at a hotel in Venice
Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure or take an optional tour:
Optional Venice Gondola Ride and Serenade $65USD per person
Experience Venice in the most Venetian way possible: via a shared gondola ride while being serenaded. Choose between an afternoon or evening ride and then hop on the six-person gondola by a gondolier who is clad in traditional garb. Then begin the ride, as part of a group of eight different gondolas, with a singer aboard one of the boats. In addition to the song being sung to you, enjoy the sites of Venice's main landmarks, including the Grand Canal and Palazzo Barberino. Ride on a six-passenger gondola along parts of the Grand Canal and smaller waterways Listen to songs from a singer on board one of the gondolas in your flotilla Drift by top Venice attractions such as Palazzo Barberino and Peggy Guggenheim Collection museum Lose yourself in the romantic melodies as you soak up the passing sights
What's Included: Shared gondola ride in a flotilla of gondolas (approx. 30 minutes), Serenade from singer aboard one of the flotilla gondolas
What's NOT Included: Guide, Gratuities, Hotel pickup and drop-off
Meeting point: Gondola Station - Santa Maria del Giglio, Campiello Traghetto, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy
What To Expect: You can walk around Venice. You could take a water taxi. But, really, there's only one way to get around La Serenissima, as this city of bridges and canals is nicknamed. And that way is by gondola. Decide to take one of four starting times when you book and then, on the day of the ride, head to the gondola pier at Piazza Santa Maria del Giglio in the center of Venice. After your arrival, hop on the shared six-seater gondola sit back, and let your gondolier, clad in traditional clothing, cruise you through
Canal Grande The Gondola Ride will take you along the Grand Canal, the most famous S-shaped Canal of Venice. 30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Peggy Guggenheim Collection (Pass By) Navigating along the Grand Canal, you will see the terrace of the building that hosts the famous Peggy Guggenheim Collection. Ponte dell'Accademia (Pass By) Navigating along the Grand Canal, you will admire the Accademia Bridge, the only wooden bridge existing in Venice.
Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute (Pass By) During this Gondola Ride you will admire the beautiful Santa Maria della Salute Church, built in the 17th century as a votive offering for the city's deliverance from the black plague.
Additional information:
- A maximum of 5 people per gondola
- Please note that there is no guarantee your party will be seated together
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Near public transportation
- Not recommended for travelers with back problems No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 25 travelers
- Overnight at hotel in Venice | Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 3 Venice – Leisure day / Enjoy Optional Tours
Optional Venice In a Day: Basilica San Marco, Doges Palace & Gondola ride $180US per person
First time in Venice? Maximize your time in the city with a full-day itinerary that ticks off all the most memorable attractions. Stroll across the Rialto Bridge and browse the lively Rialto fish market, then hop aboard a traditional gondola for a romantic cruise along the Grand Canal. Finally, visit St. Marks's Basilica and enjoy a skip-the-line entrance to the grandiose Doge's Palace. This small-group tour is limited to 20 people ensuring a personalized experience Witness local life on a walking tour of Venice’s colorful neighborhoods and the Rialto markets Cruise along the Grand Canal on a romantic gondola ride Explore the magnificent Doge’s Palace on a guided tour Small-group tour limited to 20 people ensures a personalized experience
What's Included: Local English-speaking guide, Expertly guided walking tour, Skip-the-line ticket for St. Mark's Basilica, Pre-reserved ticket to the Doge's Palace, Gondola Ride, Headset
Not Included: Gratuities, Hotel Pick-Up/Drop-Off, Lunch
Meeting point: Campo S. Giacomo di Rialto, 255, 30125 Venezia VE, Italy (At the central fountain of Campo San Giacomo di Rialto (Campo San Giacometto). Your guide will be holding a Walks sign.)
Start time: 08:30 AM
End point: Metropolitan City of Venice
What To Expect:
Ponte di Rialto Your tour starts at ground level with a guided walking tour of the city's most famous and most interesting sights. See the Rialto Bridge and learn about Venice's food culture at the Rialto Fish Market. Along the way hear tales of famous Venetians like Marco Polo as well as how Venice came to be—and how it survived against the odds. 2 hours • Admission Ticket Included
Canal Grande As your walking tour ends, take a gondola ride and cruise along the Grand Canal and into the quieter back canals of the city with a maximum of 5 people per vessel. 35 minutes • Admission Ticket Included
Venice Pause for a break. While it's not included in the tour, your guide will share plenty of great recommendations on where to grab a coffee and a snack. 1 hour 15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free.
Basilica di San Marco After the break, reconvene at St. Mark's Square and enter St. Mark's Basilica to explore its stunning history, architecture, and art with your guide. 1 hour • Admission Ticket Included.
Doge's Palace Then it's on to Venice's other top sight—the Doge's Palace. Skip the line with pre-reserved tickets and enjoy the benefit of having an expert local guide as you navigate council rooms, audience halls,
and masterpieces by Veronese and Tintoretto. 1 hour 40 minutes • Admission Ticket Included
Additional Info
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Near public transportation
- Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- St. Mark's Basilica can be subject to unforeseen closures due to particular liturgical celebrations. In the case in which the basilica is closed, we will give you explanations from the outside.
- Please note that lunch is not included on this tour. We have allowed time for you to eat lunch between the AM and PM tours.
Your guide will give you recommendations and tell you where to meet after lunch but please be aware that it is your responsibility to arrive at the meeting point in time for your PM tour.
The prisons and the armory of the Doge's Palace are not wheelchair-accessible, as a result, we cannot accommodate wheelchairs on this tour.
This tour runs rain or shine. However, please note that the gondola ride cannot operate during heavy rain or high tides. In this case, we will provide an alternative itinerary.
Please remember that the Basilica is a holy place and attire must be appropriate: Both men and women are asked to wear clothing that covers at least the shoulders and knees. Walks of Italy cannot be held responsible for denied entry due to improper dress. Backpacks are prohibited inside of St. Mark's Basilica.
After your exploration of Venice by foot, your guide drops you off at the Gondola Stand for a relaxing gondola ride. The guide will not be with you on the gondola.
Walks complies with all local government regulations. Please refer to Italy government guidelines for the most up-to-date information
This tour/activity will have a maximum of 20 travelers. Overnight at hotel in Venice | Meals Included: Breakfast.
Day 4 Cruise Starts from Venice
Check out the hotel and transfer to the Cruise port to check in for your 8-night Mediterranean Cruise on board MSC LIRCIA
Cruise Itinerary:
DAYDATEPORTARRIVALDEPARTURE
46/1/2024Venice - Marghera, Italy-4:00 PM
56/2/2024Kotor, Montenegro2:30 PM
66/3/2024At Sea--
76/4/2024Mykonos, Greece9:00 AM11:59 PM
86/5/2024Mykonos, Greece12:01 AM2:00 AM
96/5/2024Santorini, Greece7:30 AM6:00 PM
106/6/2024At Sea--
116/7/2024Ancona (Urbino), Italy1:00 PM8:00 PM
126/8/2024Venice - Marghera, Italy7:00 AM-
Day 5 Kotor, Montenegro
Embark on a journey to one of the most atmospheric medieval towns on Montenegro’s Adriatic coast when you discover the beautiful Kotor. Boasting ancient lanes and atmospheric squares, this antiquated city is brimming with aromatic cafés and glorious buildings.
Destination Exclusives:
- Tour the Cathedral of St. Tryphon with its Baroque bell towers, Romanesque interior, and Byzantine-style frescoes
- Head to the Blue Cave and enter the mysterious “Blue Grotto,” a natural wonder filled with sunlight, and marvel at the water’s extraordinary shades of blue before taking a dip or diving below
- Take a trip to St. Ivan’s Castle and marvel at the tremendous views of the fjord
Day 6 Day at Sea
A day at sea gives you the opportunity to recharge before docking at your next port. Enjoy the many amenities your ship has to offer by pampering yourself with a relaxing spa day, catching an entertaining show with talented performers, or savoring an evening of fine dining at one of our many restaurants. Stick to your fitness goals by heading to the gym or hitting the mat for a mindful yoga session. Peruse a variety of shops to discover fashionable outfits, accessories, and jewelry. With endless attractions and activities, your sea day experience will be one for the books.
Day At Sea Highlights:
• Whether you want to bask in the sun or jump in the water to cool off, a day at the pool is time well spent. A wide selection of pools allows you to choose the perfect environment while attendants stand by to meet your every need.• Take your taste buds on a trip around the world with our extensive dining options. Boasting buffets, international cuisines, a wellness corner, and more, your ship offers a variety of delicacies to satisfy pallets of all preferences.
• Try your luck in the casino where you can win big on the slot machines or put your poker face to the test at one of the table games. Regardless of your skill level, you’ll find yourself on the edge of your seat as you take your chance to hit one of the jackpots.
Day 7 & 8 Mykonos, Greece
Voyage to the amazing city of Mykonos, Greece, and discover a region brimming with breathtaking views and stunning Greek style. Known for its Cycladic 
architecture, pristine beaches, and abundant shopping, this seaside escape promises a time filled with luxurious landscapes and memorable experiences.
Destination Exclusives:
- Soak up the sun’s rays on Psarou Beach as you enjoy the white sand and vibrant blue water
- Tour the Folklore Museum which shares the promontory with Mýkonos’s oldest and best-known church, Paraportianí, a fascinating asymmetrical hodgepodge of four chapels amalgamated into one
- Visit Little Venice and the adjoining Alefkándhra district to discover an area packed with art galleries, trendy bars, shops, and clubs
Day 9 Santorini, Greece
Witness the spectacular natural wonders of Santoríni, Greece, and take in the breathtaking scenery of this Mediterranean escape. World-renowned for its
whitewashed villages and volcanic beaches, this distinctive island leaves a lasting impression with its rugged landscape and unforgettable sunsets.
Destination Exclusives:
- Voyage to Fira, a village that clings precariously to the edge of an enormous caldera, and sample delectable cuisines at the local restaurants
- Bask in the sun at one of Santoríni’s beaches with long black stretches of volcanic sand and brilliant blue water
- Discover the Archaeological Museum of Thera to learn about ancient artifacts, extraordinary sculptures, ancient pottery, and more
Day 10 Day at Sea
Day At Sea Highlights:
• Whether you want to bask in the sun or jump in the water to cool off, a day at the pool is time well spent. A wide selection of pools allows you to choose the perfect environment while attendants stand by to meet your every need.
• Take your taste buds on a trip around the world with our extensive dining options. Boasting buffets, international cuisines, a wellness corner, and more, your ship offers a variety of delicacies to satisfy pallets of all preferences.
• Try your luck in the casino where you can win big on the slot machines or put your poker face to the test at one of the table games. Regardless of your skill level, you’ll find yourself on the edge of your seat as you take your chance to hit one of the jackpots.
Day 11 Ancona (Urbino), Italy
Witness an amazing seaside escape that effortlessly mixes modern architecture with historical appeal when you visit the amazing Ancona, Italy. Known for spectacular coastal views, ancient churches, and exquisite cuisine, this Italian city beautifully exudes a Mediterranean atmosphere.
Destination Exclusives:
- Wander through the three-story Museo Archeologico and admire the models, paintings, sculptures, and original documents showing key events in Ancona from 2000 BC to 2000 AD
- Journey to the Duomo to discover a restrained Romanesque style that is contrasted by an outburst of Gothic exuberance in the doorway’s cluster of slender columns
- Make your way to the Conero Riviera to witness the northern Adriatic’s most spectacular and enjoyable stretch of Mediterranean Sea coastline"
Day 12 Venice, Italy Fly back to New York: Today your cruise ends. After disembarking, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight t back to New York leaving with a lifetime of memories.
Making the RIGHT Choose in CABIN when Cruising:
JUNIOR INTERIOR, DECKS 7 – 8
Relaxing armchair
Bathroom with shower, vanity area and hairdryer
TV, telephone, safe, and minibar
Wi-Fi access available ($)
Approx. 129 – 140 ft2
Located on decks 7 – 8
JUNIOR INTERIOR, DECKS 9 - 10
Relaxing armchair
Bathroom with shower, vanity area and hairdryer
TV, telephone, safe, and minibar
Wi-Fi access available ($)
Approx. 140 ft2
Located on decks 9 - 10
JUNIOR OCEAN VIEW, DECKS 7 – 8
Window with sea view
Relaxing armchair
Bathroom with shower, vanity area and hairdryer
TV, telephone, safe, and minibar
Wi-Fi access available ($)
Approx. 129 – 140 ft2
Located on decks 7 - 8
JUNIOR OCEAN VIEW, DECKS 9 – 10
Window with sea view
Relaxing armchair
Bathroom with shower, vanity area and hairdryer
TV, telephone, safe, and minibar
Wi-Fi access available ($)
Approx. 140 ft2
Located on decks 9 - 10
JUNIOR BALCONY, DECKS 9 – 10
Balcony
Sitting area with sofa
Bathroom with shower, vanity area and hairdryer
TV, telephone, safe, and minibar
Wi-Fi access available
Approx. 140 ft2 with a balcony that is Approx. 32 ft2
Located on decks 9 - 10
Cruise includes:
- 8 Nights Accommodations in the Room category of your choice.
- Easy Plus Package: Includes all beverages priced up to 9 euro / 10 dollars: choice of frozen and classic cocktails, fresh fruit cocktails, protein shakes, well spirits, liqueurs and cordials, draught and bottled beers, non-alcoholic cocktails, bottled mineral water, hot drinks, 10% discount on bottles of wine purchased on board, wines by the glass and beverage gratuity.
- Complimentary bottled mineral water, American coffee, and/or tea during lunch and dinner in the main dining room. Reserved only for the guests who have booked the cruise through MSC-USA. Valid for all non-caribbean canvases.
- Internet access for 1 device. Features: browse the web; send and receive emails and images; chat on messenger apps (eg. Whatsapp). No video. Duration: entire cruise. Data limit: unlimited.
Additional information:
- USA, Canada & TT Passport holders do not require a Visa.
- Guyana Passport holders require Schengen Visa (have to apply locally in Suriname or Trinidad)
Proposed Flights Information from JFK:
WED 29 MAY 2024: Depart JFK, New York, at 6:40 AM - Arrive THU 30 MAY Venice, VCE at 09:15 AM
SAT 08 JUN 2024: Depart Venice, VCE at 01:35 PM - Arrive SAT 08 JUN JFK, New York at 05:10 PM
For Reservations and Information Call: 645-1604 or 665-3383
The tour and flight itinerary is subject to change as well as availability. * The cruise cabin images are representative only; the size, layout, and furniture may vary (within the same stateroom category).
ITALY
Italy - Spring and Fall: 55-75°F; Summer: 70-85°F; Winter: 40-55°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer, and an all-weather jacket. The months of October through March are considered rainy season in Venice, leading to high tides and occasionally waters reaching pedestrian areas. We suggest including a rain jacket and boots on your packing list. On cruises, informal dress is the general rule though on formal nights, a cocktail dress for women and a suit or coat and tie for men is required. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops).