Western Mediterranean Discovery
Cruise only — prices from Solo cruise only — from
Ports of Call & Itinerary
21-night voyage departing Southampton.
Printable Itinerary (PDF)Route Map
Western Mediterranean Discovery
12 ports plotted · click a marker for details
Day 1
Southampton , England
Saturday, 03/03/2029
Lying near the head of Southampton Water, a peninsula between the estuaries of the Rivers Test and Itchen, Southampton is Britain’s largest cruise port. It has been one of England’s major ports since the Middle Ages, when it exported wool and hides from the hinterland and imported wine from Bordeaux. The city suffered heavy damage during World War Two and as a result the centre has been extensively rebuilt, but there are still some interesting medieval buildings including the Bargate, one of the finest city gatehouses in England.
Day 5
Cartagena , Spain
Wednesday, 07/03/2029
A Mediterranean city and naval station located in the Region of Murcia, southeastern Spain, Cartagena’s sheltered bay has attracted sailors for centuries. The Carthaginians founded the city in 223BC and named it Cartago Nova; it later became a prosperous Roman colony, and a Byzantine trading centre. The city has been the main Spanish Mediterranean naval base since the reign of King Philip II, and is still surrounded by walls built during this period. Cartagena’s importance grew with the arrival of the Spanish Bourbons in the 18th century, when the Navidad Fortress was constructed to protect the harbour. In recent years, traces of the city’s fascinating past have been brought to light: a well-preserved Roman Theatre was discovered in 1988, and this has now been restored and opened to the public. During your free time, you may like to take a mini-cruise around Cartagena's historic harbour: these operate several times a day, take approximately 40 minutes and do not need to be booked in advance. Full details will be available at the port.
Day 7
La Goulette , Tunisia
Friday, 09/03/2029
Day 8
Valletta , Malta
Saturday, 10/03/2029
Malta's capital, the minicity of Valletta, has ornate palaces and museums protected by massive fortifications of honey-color limestone. Houses along the narrow streets have overhanging wooden balconies for people-watching from indoors. Generations ago they gave housebound women a window on the world of the street. The main entrance to town is through the City Gate (where all bus routes end), which leads onto Triq Repubblika (Republic Street), the spine of the grid-pattern city and the main shopping street. Triq Mercante (Merchant Street) parallels Repubblika to the east and is also good for strolling. From these two streets, cross streets descend toward the water; some are stepped. Valletta's compactness makes it ideal to explore on foot. City Gate and the upper part of Valletta are experiencing vast redevelopment that includes a new Parliament Building and open-air performance venue. The complex, completed mid-2013, has numerous pedestrian detours in place along with building noise and dust. Before setting out along Republic Street, stop at the tourist information office on Merchant Street for maps and brochures.
Day 10
Piraeus , Greece
Monday, 12/03/2029
It's no wonder that all roads lead to the fascinating and maddening metropolis of Athens. Lift your eyes 200 feet above the city to the Parthenon, its honey-color marble columns rising from a massive limestone base, and you behold architectural perfection that has not been surpassed in 2,500 years. But, today, this shrine of classical form dominates a 21st-century boomtown. To experience Athens—Athína in Greek—fully is to understand the essence of Greece: ancient monuments surviving in a sea of cement, startling beauty amid the squalor, tradition juxtaposed with modernity. Locals depend on humor and flexibility to deal with the chaos; you should do the same. The rewards are immense. Although Athens covers a huge area, the major landmarks of the ancient Greek, Roman, and Byzantine periods are close to the modern city center. You can easily walk from the Acropolis to many other key sites, taking time to browse in shops and relax in cafés and tavernas along the way. From many quarters of the city you can glimpse "the glory that was Greece" in the form of the Acropolis looming above the horizon, but only by actually climbing that rocky precipice can you feel the impact of the ancient settlement. The Acropolis and Filopappou, two craggy hills sitting side by side; the ancient Agora (marketplace); and Kerameikos, the first cemetery, form the core of ancient and Roman Athens. Along the Unification of Archaeological Sites promenade, you can follow stone-paved, tree-lined walkways from site to site, undisturbed by traffic. Cars have also been banned or reduced in other streets in the historical center. In the National Archaeological Museum, vast numbers of artifacts illustrate the many millennia of Greek civilization; smaller museums such as the Goulandris Museum of Cycladic Art Museum and the Byzantine and Christian Museum illuminate the history of particular regions or periods. Athens may seem like one huge city, but it is really a conglomeration of neighborhoods with distinctive characters. The Eastern influences that prevailed during the 400-year rule of the Ottoman Empire are still evident in Monastiraki, the bazaar area near the foot of the Acropolis. On the northern slope of the Acropolis, stroll through Plaka (if possible by moonlight), an area of tranquil streets lined with renovated mansions, to get the flavor of the 19th-century's gracious lifestyle. The narrow lanes of Anafiotika, a section of Plaka, thread past tiny churches and small, color-washed houses with wooden upper stories, recalling a Cycladic island village. In this maze of winding streets, vestiges of the older city are everywhere: crumbling stairways lined with festive tavernas; dank cellars filled with wine vats; occasionally a court or diminutive garden, enclosed within high walls and filled with magnolia trees and the flaming trumpet-shaped flowers of hibiscus bushes. Formerly run-down old quarters, such as Thission, Gazi and Psirri, popular nightlife areas filled with bars and mezedopoleia (similar to tapas bars), are now in the process of gentrification, although they still retain much of their original charm, as does the colorful produce and meat market on Athinas. The area around Syntagma Square, the tourist hub, and Omonia Square, the commercial heart of the city about 1 km (½ mi) northwest, is distinctly European, having been designed by the court architects of King Otho, a Bavarian, in the 19th century. The chic shops and bistros of ritzy Kolonaki nestle at the foot of Mt. Lycabettus, Athens's highest hill (909 feet). Each of Athens's outlying suburbs has a distinctive character: in the north is wealthy, tree-lined Kifissia, once a summer resort for aristocratic Athenians, and in the south and southeast lie Glyfada, Voula, and Vouliagmeni, with their sandy beaches, seaside bars, and lively summer nightlife. Just beyond the city's southern fringes is Piraeus, a bustling port city of waterside fish tavernas and Saronic Gulf views.
Day 12
Naples , Italy
Wednesday, 14/03/2029
Naples, in the Campania region, is Italy's third largest city. Its claim to fame is the spectacular location along one of the world's most splendid bays, backed by the perfect cone of Mount Vesuvius. In addition to its beautiful setting, Naples' surprises with other outstanding attractions such as the Royal Palace, San Carlos Opera House, the impressive National Archaeological Museum and the Castel Nuovo, dating from the 13th-century. The city's central area is best explored on foot. Chaotic traffic conditions make driving around the city a very frustrating experience. Naples provides a convenient starting point for trips to such favored destinations as Pompeii, Herculaneum and Mount Vesuvius. The Isle of Capri can be reached via a 45-minute hydrofoil service. The region of Campania was home to Greeks settlers some 300 years before Rome was founded. Pompeii, too, was a Greek town before being conquered by the Romans during the 5th century BC. It was under the Romans that Pompeii flourished and grew prosperous. When Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD, the population of 20,000 was wiped out, but dozens of buildings were preserved under layers of cinder more than 20 feet deep. The most important finds from Pompeii are displayed in Naples' National Archaeological Museum. A visit here will no doubt enhance a visit to ancient Pompeii.
Day 13
Civitavecchia , Italy
Thursday, 15/03/2029
Italy's vibrant capital lives in the present, but no other city on earth evokes its past so powerfully. For over 2,500 years, emperors, popes, artists, and common citizens have left their mark here. Archaeological remains from ancient Rome, art-stuffed churches, and the treasures of Vatican City vie for your attention, but Rome is also a wonderful place to practice the Italian-perfected il dolce far niente, the sweet art of idleness. Your most memorable experiences may include sitting at a caffè in the Campo de' Fiori or strolling in a beguiling piazza.
Day 15
Barcelona , Spain
Saturday, 17/03/2029
The infinite variety of street life, the nooks and crannies of the medieval Barri Gòtic, the ceramic tile and stained glass of Art Nouveau facades, the art and music, the throb of street life, the food (ah, the food!)—one way or another, Barcelona will find a way to get your full attention. The capital of Catalonia is a banquet for the senses, with its beguiling mix of ancient and modern architecture, tempting cafés and markets, and sun-drenched Mediterranean beaches. A stroll along La Rambla and through waterfront Barceloneta, as well as a tour of Gaudí's majestic Sagrada Famíliaand his other unique creations, are part of a visit to Spain's second-largest city. Modern art museums and chic shops call for attention, too. Barcelona's vibe stays lively well into the night, when you can linger over regional wine and cuisine at buzzing tapas bars.
Day 16
Alicante , Spain
Sunday, 18/03/2029
The provincial capital of the Valencian Community serves as a gateway to the huge influx of tourists that flock to the Costa Blanca resorts every year. Alicante is popular with holidaymakers who arrive for the warm, Mediterranean climate and seemingly endless golden beaches. However, there is much more to this city than sand and sun. With a picturesque waterfront, a hugely impressive castle, buzzing nightlife and a rich, complex history, Alicante is a fascinating destination all year round.
Day 18
Cádiz , Spain
Tuesday, 20/03/2029
Believed to be the oldest town on the Iberian Peninsula, the Andalusian port of Cádiz enjoys a stunning location at the edge of a six-mile promontory. The town itself, with 3,000 years of history, is characterised by pretty white houses with balconies often adorned with colourful flowers. As you wander around be sure to take a stroll through the sizeable Plaza de Espãna, with its large monument dedicated to the first Spanish constitution, which was signed here in 1812. Cádiz has two pleasant seafront promenades which boast fine views of the Atlantic Ocean, and has a lovely park, the Parque Genoves, located close to the sea with an open-air theatre and attractive palm garden. Also notable is the neo-Classical cathedral, capped by a golden dome.
Day 19
Lisbon , Portugal
Wednesday, 21/03/2029
Set on seven hills on the banks of the River Tagus, Lisbon has been the capital of Portugal since the 13th century. It is a city famous for its majestic architecture, old wooden trams, Moorish features and more than twenty centuries of history. Following disastrous earthquakes in the 18th century, Lisbon was rebuilt by the Marques de Pombal who created an elegant city with wide boulevards and a great riverfront and square, Praça do Comércio. Today there are distinct modern and ancient sections, combining great shopping with culture and sightseeing in the Old Town, built on the city's terraced hillsides. The distance between the ship and your tour vehicle may vary. This distance is not included in the excursion grades.
Day 22
Southampton , England
Saturday, 24/03/2029
Lying near the head of Southampton Water, a peninsula between the estuaries of the Rivers Test and Itchen, Southampton is Britain’s largest cruise port. It has been one of England’s major ports since the Middle Ages, when it exported wool and hides from the hinterland and imported wine from Bordeaux. The city suffered heavy damage during World War Two and as a result the centre has been extensively rebuilt, but there are still some interesting medieval buildings including the Bargate, one of the finest city gatehouses in England.
Room Type & Prices
All prices per person based on double occupancy. Solo traveller prices — single occupancy. Contact our cruise experts for the latest availability and best fares.
Inside Cabins
172 sqft · Up to 4 guests
Single Inside Cabin
130 sqft · Up to 1 guests
Sea View Cabin (Obstructed View)
167–261 sqft · Up to 2 guests
Sea View Cabin (Partially Obstructed View)
155–261 sqft · Up to 2 guests
Sea View Cabin
153–166 sqft · Up to 4 guests
Single Sea View Cabins
130 sqft · Up to 1 guests
Balcony Cabins
314 sqft · Up to 4 guests
Superior Deluxe Balcony Cabin
314 sqft · Up to 2 guests
Suites
449–451 sqft · Up to 4 guests
Inside
| Cabin | Grade | Per Person | Avail. | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Inside Cabins · 172 sqft | PF Inside (PF) | Enquire → | ||
| PE Inside (PE) | Enquire → | |||
| PD Inside (PD) | Enquire → | |||
| PC Inside (PC) | Enquire → | |||
| PB Inside (PB) | Enquire → | |||
| PA Inside (PA) | Enquire → | |||
| OB Larger Insider | Enquire → | |||
| Single Inside Cabin · 130 sqft | SC Single Inside | Enquire → |
Inside Cabins · 172 sqft
PF Inside (PF)
Inside Cabins · 172 sqft
PE Inside (PE)
Inside Cabins · 172 sqft
PD Inside (PD)
Inside Cabins · 172 sqft
PC Inside (PC)
Inside Cabins · 172 sqft
PB Inside (PB)
Inside Cabins · 172 sqft
PA Inside (PA)
Inside Cabins · 172 sqft
OB Larger Insider
Single Inside Cabin · 130 sqft
SC Single Inside
Oceanview
| Cabin | Grade | Per Person | Avail. | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sea View Cabin (Obstructed View) · 167–261 sqft | NF Outside (Obstructed View) (NF) | Enquire → | ||
| NB Outside (Obstructed View) (NB) | Enquire → | |||
| NC Outside (Obstructed View) (NC) | Enquire → | |||
| Sea View Cabin (Partially Obstructed View) · 155–261 sqft | MF Outside (Part Obstructed View) (MF) | Enquire → | ||
| ME Outside (Part Obstructed View) (ME) | Enquire → | |||
| MC Outside (Part Obstructed View) (MC) | Enquire → | |||
| MB Outside (Part Obstructed View) (MB) | Enquire → | |||
| Sea View Cabin · 153–166 sqft | LF Outside (LF) | Enquire → | ||
| LE Outside (LE) | Enquire → | |||
| LC Outside (LC) | Enquire → | |||
| LB Outside (LB) | Enquire → | |||
| Single Sea View Cabins · 130 sqft | RC Single Outside | Enquire → |
Sea View Cabin (Obstructed View) · 167–261 sqft
NF Outside (Obstructed View) (NF)
Sea View Cabin (Obstructed View) · 167–261 sqft
NB Outside (Obstructed View) (NB)
Sea View Cabin (Obstructed View) · 167–261 sqft
NC Outside (Obstructed View) (NC)
Sea View Cabin (Partially Obstructed View) · 155–261 sqft
MF Outside (Part Obstructed View) (MF)
Sea View Cabin (Partially Obstructed View) · 155–261 sqft
ME Outside (Part Obstructed View) (ME)
Sea View Cabin (Partially Obstructed View) · 155–261 sqft
MC Outside (Part Obstructed View) (MC)
Sea View Cabin (Partially Obstructed View) · 155–261 sqft
MB Outside (Part Obstructed View) (MB)
Sea View Cabin · 153–166 sqft
LF Outside (LF)
Sea View Cabin · 153–166 sqft
LE Outside (LE)
Sea View Cabin · 153–166 sqft
LC Outside (LC)
Sea View Cabin · 153–166 sqft
LB Outside (LB)
Single Sea View Cabins · 130 sqft
RC Single Outside
Balcony
| Cabin | Grade | Per Person | Avail. | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Balcony Cabins · 314 sqft | HF Balcony (HF) | Enquire → | ||
| HE Balcony (HE) | Enquire → | |||
| HD Balcony (HD) | Enquire → | |||
| HC Balcony (HC) | Enquire → | |||
| HB Balcony (HB) | Enquire → | |||
| HA Balcony (HA) | Enquire → | |||
| Superior Deluxe Balcony Cabin · 314 sqft | DE Superior Deluxe Balcony (DE) | Enquire → | ||
| DD Superior Deluxe Balcony (DD) | Enquire → | |||
| DB Superior Deluxe Balcony (DB) | Enquire → | |||
| DA Superior Deluxe Balcony (DA) | Enquire → |
Balcony Cabins · 314 sqft
HF Balcony (HF)
Balcony Cabins · 314 sqft
HE Balcony (HE)
Balcony Cabins · 314 sqft
HD Balcony (HD)
Balcony Cabins · 314 sqft
HC Balcony (HC)
Balcony Cabins · 314 sqft
HB Balcony (HB)
Balcony Cabins · 314 sqft
HA Balcony (HA)
Superior Deluxe Balcony Cabin · 314 sqft
DE Superior Deluxe Balcony (DE)
Superior Deluxe Balcony Cabin · 314 sqft
DD Superior Deluxe Balcony (DD)
Superior Deluxe Balcony Cabin · 314 sqft
DB Superior Deluxe Balcony (DB)
Superior Deluxe Balcony Cabin · 314 sqft
DA Superior Deluxe Balcony (DA)
More Departures
Your Ship
Ventura
The fun all-rounder
Perfect for families, Ventura has so much to enjoy. Kids (and big kids) love her video game arcade; the sports arena keep everyone happy (competitive streaks aside!) with football, basketball, tennis and archery; and the comedy and quiz nights in Havana and The Tamarind Club are fun for all the family.
