Arts Club Tour 2019 Cruising Rome to Athens

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1 Arts Club Tour 2019 Cruising Rome to Athens In 2019 what better choice would there be than to sail to the Greek Islands and the Holy Land with the Arts Club on Crystal s newly refurbished Crystal Serenity for 13 days where you will experience incomparable, renowned service. On board Crystal Serenity the hallmarks of service, space and quality have earned Crystal Cruises the distinction as the world s most awarded luxury cruise line. A welcoming and friendly smile sets the stage for a journey of uncommon discovery where the industry s finest professionals create experiences of a lifetime all day and every day. We will journey from Rome to Athens with stops in unique and exciting ports: Sorrento, Crete, Haifa (for Nazareth), Ashdod (for Bethlehem and Jerusalem), Cyprus, Rhodes, Santorini and Patmos, ending with a full day in Athens.

2 Day 1 10 October, 2019: Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy This afternoon join the Crystal Serenity in Civitavecchia, which was founded by Emperor Trajan in the 2 nd century. Today this port is noted for its fine seafood and attractive monuments and is located 90 minutes away from Rome. Steeped in 2,500 years of history, Rome was for many centuries the center of Western civilization being the focal point of the Roman Empire and of Christendom. Landmarks such as the Colosseum, Forum, Pantheon, Vatican, Sistine Chapel and Spanish Steps are reminders of the legacy of Rome s rich past. (Dinner this evening)

3 Day 2 11 October, 2019: Sorrento, Italy As your ship approaches the Sorrento Peninsula, delight in craggy cliffs draped with flowing pink blossoms. Renowned for its serene way of life, this romantic port exudes a special magic. Its dramatic bluffs and surrounding flowered hills bid travelers welcome to a town overflowing with charm and character. It is easy to relax in this languid southern Italian atmosphere. The sensational Amalfi Coast, the haunting ruins at Pompeii and Capri with its Blue Lagoon are among the region's highlights. (B, L, D)

4 Day 3 12 October, 2019: Cruising the Ionian Sea Your first full day at sea will give you a chance to relax even more and perhaps give you the chance to explore the ship if you have yet to do so. Explore the Crystal Serenity s cafes and dining alternatives and lounges, whether in a little intimate spot or a pulsing dance club. Perhaps enjoy some time in the action packed Crystal Casino or catch one of the ship s new production shows. (B, L, D)

5 Day 4 13 October, 2019: Chania, Crete, Greece Throughout its long history, the Cretan city of Chania has been ruled and influenced by the Greeks, Venetians and the Turks. Current day Chania is home to the Municipal Agora, a marketplace built in 1913 on the site of the old southern Venetian walls, and features a waterfront that would look right at home on the Venetian Lagoon. A maze of narrow alleyways opening onto squares edged by Byzantine and neo-classical buildings are quintessentially Greek: quaint, friendly and gracefully aged. In classic Greek style, the Venetian structures that lack rooftops due to the bombings of World War II have beautifully evolved into open-air shops and restaurants, inviting locals to stop to appreciate the mild Mediterranean weather and warm companionship of friends. (B, L, D)

6 Day 5 14 October, 2019: Cruising the Mediterranean Sea Your second full day at sea allows you to indulge yourself in doing nothing or doing everything. Pamper yourself at the Feng Shui inspired spa, work out at in the fitness center, practice your golf swing on deck, participate in mat Pilates and yoga or walk for kilometres around the 360 o Promenade Deck overlooking the pool. Perhaps take some classes in the digital arts or learn more about art, history and worldly destinations with engaging celebrity entertainers and speakers. Perhaps watch recently released movies in the theatre or shop in the luxury boutiques. Then, again, you might want just to lounge around the pool with a cool drink in your hand... (B, L, D)

7 Day 6 15 October, 2019: Haifa, Israel Haifa is Hebrew for "beautiful coast" and its shining coastline as Israel's largest Mediterranean port lives up to that name. Even more impressive, though, are the slopes of Mt. Carmel on which much of the city lies. Travel through the gorgeous villas and resort hotels to the summit for spectacular views of the city's many gardens, and striking Haifa Bay. Haifa is one of the gateways to many ancient sites, including Nazareth, the Sea of Galilee and Capernaum. (B, L, D)

8 Day 7 16 October, 2019: Ashdod, Israel Built on golden dunes, Ashdod is southern Israel's only Mediterranean harbor. Yet this new city has fabulously ancient roots: Ashdod is mentioned in the Old Testament and archaeologists have found ruins almost 4,000 years old. This is the doorway to the historic treasures of Jerusalem, Bethlehem and the worldly pleasures of Tel Aviv. Because so much history and so many sites are found near here, Crystal Serenity will moor here for two days. (B, L, D)

9 Day 8 17 October, 2019: Ashdod Israel On this second day in Ashdod you will have to chance to experience what you did not see yesterday. Perhaps today is the day for Masada, Tel Aviv or the city of Jaffa, which archaeologists believe has been inhabited since 7,500 BCE. Then again, you might want to spend more time back in Jerusalem. (B, L, D)

10 Day 9 18 October, 2019: Paphos, Cyprus Steeped in mythological history, Paphos offers an abundance of architectural wonders. In fact, the entire city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some of the treasures not to be missed are the spectacular mosaics unearthed in the House of Dionysus, charming Omodos Village and the solid rock catacombs of the Tombs of the Kings. Paphos is perhaps best known as the birthplace of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love. Her spirit lives on in the ancient ruins and temples, as well as the modern harbor and sun-splashed beaches where love is always in the air. The palmlined waterfront promenade is most inviting for a relaxing meander. (B, L, D)

11 Day October, 2019: Lindos, Rhodes, Greece Best known of the Dodecanese islands, Rhodes is rich with natural beauty, architectural variety and colorful history. The city of Rhodes is architecturally one of the most varied in Europe with Hellenistic, Byzantine, Medieval and Turkish architectural styles freely intermingling. Sunshine and dry air combine to cast such a magnificent light over the island that the ancients dedicated Rhodes to Apollo, the God of Light. (B, L, D)

12 Day October, 2019: Thira, Santorini, Greece Of all the Cyclades Islands, Santorini is often considered the most dramatic. In 1500 BCE the island volcano erupted with such force that the center of the island literally exploded leaving the haunting submerged crater into which Crystal Serenity sails. The island's small villages were preserved in the ashes and recent excavations have uncovered a fascinating view of everyday life from 3,500 years ago. Santorini's dark landscape is offset by its lovely buildings that glimmer in the sunlight. The rich volcanic soil is ideal for grapes which the locals grow in a unique manner to the island; the wine is cherished for its special volcanic taste. Thira is laid out along the edge of a cliff that partially forms the rim of the now extinct caldera. A picturesque site, it exudes charm and an atmosphere of leisure that can be attributed to the easy going Greek lifestyle. (B, L, D)

13 Day October, 2019: Patmos, Greece Considered the "Jerusalem of the Aegean," the Greek isle of Patmos has a rich Christian heritage. The Monastery of Saint John was founded in 1088 and is a UNESCO World Heritage site as is the Cave of the Apocalypse, the grotto where John the Apostle received the visions he recorded in the Book of Revelation. The Patmian School, a noted Greek seminary, is also located on the island. Deep Christian roots make Patmos a destination for pilgrims, while the island's white sand beaches, secluded coves and beautiful marina make it a popular destination for worshippers of the sun. (B, L, D)

14 Day October, 2019: Piraeus (Athens), Greece Piraeus is Greece's largest port and has been a gateway to the Mediterranean since 482 BC. It lies on the innermost point of the Saronic Gulf and is a short drive from Athens, the cradle of Western democracy and culture. Throughout the ages, Athens' lofty Acropolis has been a source of inspiration. The ancient ruins scattered throughout this legendary city are reminders of Greece's great cultural heritage. (B, L, D) Day October, 2019: Piraeus (Athens), Greece Disembark This morning your cruise comes to a conclusion after breakfast. (B)

15 Deluxe Stateroom with Verandah Crystal s all-inclusive value provides: Stateroom Services & Amenities In-stateroom satellite TV and movie/dvd rentals Twice daily housekeeping with nightly turndown service Self-service launderettes Kimonos, Frette bathrobes, 100% Egyptian cotton linens and a menu of pillow options Complimentary soft drinks and bottled water as well as complimentary select beer, wine and spirits upon request

16 Enrichment & Entertainment Computer classes with software instruction Technology Concierge "how to" tips on latest high-tech gadgets and apps Digital USC School of Cinematic Arts Digital Filmmaking classes Experiences of Discovery theme cruises with focused programming on music, film & theatre, wellness, golf and more Crystal Visions Enrichment Series lecture series featuring renowned speakers, authors, celebrities and destination experts Interactive Ocean Views and Local Insights on select voyages where native experts come on board to share their unique, niche knowledge about the destination's art, politics, archaeology or history Up to eight evening dining venue Complimentary select fine wines, champagne and premium spirits throughout the ship Complimentary evening of specialty restaurant dining in Prego and at least once in Nobu Matsuhisa's Umi Uma (additional reservations or visits available for a modest fee) Open-bar service throughout the ship Gratuities for housekeeping, bar and dining staff throughout the ship Afternoon Tea in elegant Palm Court Gym with state-of-the art fitness equipment Well-appointed separate men's and women's steam, saunas and whirlpools in the only Feng Shui inspired spa at sea Fitness classes including yoga, mat Pilates, "Tour de Spin" cycling, cutting-edge Kinesis systems and Tai Chi courses Fine Dining Fitness Breakout new productions shows including Rocket Man!, a tribute to Elton John, the high-energy rhythmic 6/8 Café, plus piano bars and chic nightclubs Magic Castle at Sea offering intimate upclose performances and educational classes Recent-release films in spacious surroundsound Hollywood Theatre Dance lessons Ambassador Hosts, cultured and welltraveled gentlemen, are available on every cruise to socialize and dance the night away Art classes with Odyssey Art At Sea Dedicated Junior Cruiser facilities and programs Concierge services for personal arrangements ashore The Bistro, a European-style sidewalk café with extended hours into the late evening All non-alcoholic beverages including bottled water, specialty coffee drinks, soft drinks, fresh juices and Afternoon Tea service Acclaimed Crystal Wine & Food Festival cruises featuring famous chefs and wine authorities on select voyages Early embarkation luncheon, welcome champagne and 24 hour room service Innovative Modern Cuisine as well as global inspired specialty menus Golf lessons with PGA instructors Exclusive 360 (wraparound) teak Promenade Deck for uninterrupted walks, jogs and sweeping ocean views Walk-on-Water weighted vests and Nordic Pole walking equipment Paddle tennis

17 Deluxe Stateroom with Verandah Fares: Twin: from $ 7,970* USD (based on double occupancy Single: from $10,725* USD * Fare includes port charges and taxes. To confirm your place on this trip call Geoff at or at geoff.clydesdale@visiontravel.ca Consumer Protection BC License #70485