Venetian Splendor to the Amalfi Coast

The iconic image of Venice shows a city with no roads, only canals, because it’s built on over 100 small islands in a lagoon amid the Adriatic Sea. In the heart of the city close to Piazza San Marco you will find the Bridge of Sighs, an architectural jewel amid so many historical wonders. Venetian cuisine is renowned throughout Italy for its high-quality seafood. Positioned within a lagoon, local chefs and restaurants have the advantage of fresh-caught fish directly from the source and bringing it straight to their tables.

Spend a leisurely day pampering yourself at the spa or enjoying some time on deck. Mingle with your fellow explorers and swap stories of your exploits, making plans for new ones together once you get to shore.

In the north of the Ionian Sea lies Corfu, a Greek island with history and cultural influence from the French, Venetians and the English, all leading to its modern-day, cosmopolitan reputation. While most Greek Isles are associated with ancient ruins, Corfu offers a different historical lens with monuments like Achilleion Palace. It also holds a quainter side with surrounding villages to explore like the charming ghost town of Old Perithia in Kasiopi. It’s not a trip to Greece without visiting some of Corfu’s stunning beaches like Canal d’Amour or Paleokastritsa.

Discover the picturesque harbor town of Gaios, where colorful waterfront buildings and traditional Greek architecture line a sheltered inlet framed by lush islets. Wander narrow lanes filled with inviting cafés and local shops, or admire the Venetian fortress on nearby Agios Nikolaos islet, a reminder of the island’s maritime past. Beyond the harbor, olive groves, secluded coves and the clear turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea reveal the unspoiled beauty of Paxos.

Discover the picturesque harbor town of Gaios, where colorful waterfront buildings and traditional Greek architecture line a sheltered inlet framed by lush islets. Wander narrow lanes filled with inviting cafés and Set along a sheltered bay on the island of Kefalonia, Argostolion blends a lively waterfront with a rich history and the relaxed character of the Ionian Islands. Stroll along the harbor promenade, browse local shops along Lithostroto, or cross the historic De Bosset Bridge beside the verdant Koutavos Lagoon. Traditional architecture, inviting cafés and fresh local seafood offer a taste of island life, while the surrounding coastline reveals scenic coves and striking blue waters.

The island of Zakynthos, also known as Zante, is an unspoiled paradise along the Ionian Sea. It’s easy to go shore hopping along waters that go from blue to bluer. Along Navagio, also known as Shipwreck Beach, if you are looking for stories of adventure, you will be pleased. Following the paths along the cliffs above the beach will take your breath away as you look upon the unbelievable horizon. The square in Zakynthos town comes alive at all hours, abuzz with activity throughout the day and into the night.

Spend a leisurely day pampering yourself at the spa or enjoying some time on deck. Mingle with your fellow explorers and swap stories of your exploits, making plans for new ones together once you get to shore.

The island of Capri is the gem of the Bay of Naples. In Capri you can marvel at the whitewashed homes and villas, fragrant lemon trees and flower-filled courtyards. From the water, be sure to visit the Grotta Azzurra (Blue Grotto), which is only accessible by boat. Once inside the cave, you can marvel at the water’s sapphire color, which is caused by the light refraction from the hidden opening in the rock. Also from the water, see the Arco Naturale on the east coast of the island. Dating from the Paleolithic age, the limestone arch is the remains of a collapsed grotto.

Nestled in the romantic Tyrrhenian Sea, Isola di Ponza is an enchanting gem. The cuisine is an artful blend of fresh, local ingredients and time-honored recipes. Dive into a gastronomic paradise where flavors of the sea dominate the table, like freshly caught seafood, handcrafted pasta, and the island’s beloved zuppa di pesce, fish soup simmered to perfection with local herbs and spices. Visit local vineyards to sample Ponza’s exquisite wines and learn about the island’s winemaking traditions as you enjoy the picturesque surrounding scenery. Beyond the table, the island’s villages are steeped in history, their charming streets echoing the whispers of ancient times. Be sure to explore the intricate architectural tapestry crafted by the Phoenicians, Romans, and Byzantines. On Ponza, life is savored slowly. Relish the island’s leisurely ambiance as you sip espresso al fresco, watch the gentle roll of azure waves, and enjoy the sunset’s warm embrace. Whether you’re a culinary enthusiast or a seeker of serenity, Isola di Ponza promises an enriching journey through Italy’s heart and soul.

Civitavecchia acts as the main terminal for all cruises heading into Rome or the less-crowded, nearby Tarquinia. From there a shuttle bus takes you to the Service Center of Largo della Pace where you can embark on adventures through the Eternal City. Rome maintains its position in the world as a powerful influence in religion, politics, and art, as it is well known as the site for intellectual and artistic achievements past. From the iconic Roman Coliseum aboveground to the mysterious catacombs of the Capuchin Crypt below ground, the capital of Italy beckons the adventurous to discover its many secrets and stories. The city holds a certain cosmopolitan feel as well with countless rooftop bars that are a prime location for an evening sunset. For explorations further off the beaten path, Tarquinia offers historic treasures such as the Monterozzi Necropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and an authentic, Italian small-town feel.