Join us aboard the MS Island Sky for a seven-night cruise from Malaga to Nice which we have timed for September when just about everything is as perfect as it can be, from the comfortable temperatures to the relatively crowd free sites. Our voyage promises to be an informative and relaxing journey allowing you to immerse yourself in the artistic, historical and cultural gems of the region.
Following an overnight stay in Malaga with time to discover the history and art of the city, we will embark the MS Island Sky and sail to the historic city of Tarragona in Catalonia, a veritable museum-town with remains of all the civilisations that have crossed the Iberian Peninsula and where we will discover the remnants of the Roman period. We continue to the Medieval town of Figueres, the birthplace of Salvador Dali and in the Dali Theatre Museum can view many of his surrealistic works; to balance the day the afternoon will be spent in the Graeco-Roman site of Empries.
The second half of our journey focuses on the south of France starting with the ‘Cote Vermeille’ or rocky coast, one of the most beautiful parts of the Mediterranean which has inspired some of the world’s most famous artists and from where there will be the opportunity to visit the wonderful Musee d’Art Moderne. Sailing along the coast to Marseille we begin our exploration of the Cote d’Azur, a region which in the late 19th century witnessed an extraordinary flowering of art that transformed the area into the greatest concentration of modern art in Europe. You can choose to discover Aix en Provence, renowned as the home of artist Paul Cezanne, to view many of the painter’s most celebrated works or spend the day in Avignon, the great City of the Popes. Our voyage ends in Nice from where a feast for the eyes will be had at the Villa Rothschild with its stunning location and beautiful gardens, a fitting conclusion to our journey.
- Malaga's Cultural Heritage: Explore the historical city of Malaga, known for its impressive Castillo de Gibralfaro, Renaissance and Gothic-style cathedral, and its connection to the famous artist Pablo Picasso. You'll have the option to visit the Picasso Museum, providing a glimpse into the life and works of this renowned artist.
- Roman Remnants in Tarragona: Explore the ancient city of Tarragona, once a Roman garrison during the Second Punic War. Discover remnants of the Roman era, including city walls, an amphitheatre, and the Roman Circus. After a guided tour, you'll have free time to further explore the city.
- Salvador Dali's Figueres: Visit the birthplace of the famous artist Salvador Dali, Figueres. Explore the town's architecture, including the 18th-century castle of St. Ferran and the Dali Theatre Museum, designed by Dali himself. The museum offers insight into Dali's life and artistic journey.
- French and Spanish Gems: Experience the beauty of the Cote Vermeille, a stunning coastal area along the Mediterranean. Discover the charming town of Collioure, visit local artist studios, and explore the Royal Castle. You'll also have the option to explore Port Vendres, Ceret, or the Musée d'Art Moderne, where you can admire works by Picasso, Chagall, and Dali.
There are no future departures for this trip at this stage.
Island Sky
| Length: | 90 Metres |
|---|---|
| Built/Refurbished: | 1992/2018 |
With a maximum passenger capacity of only 116, a vessel of her size is capable of carrying many more but instead the MS Island Sky has the benefit of unusually large suites, luxuriously appointed public areas and spacious outside decks.
There is a high ratio of crew to passengers- the friendly crew of 75 crew and Scandinavian captains are experienced mariners, having been in service aboard large 2000 plus passenger vessels and who now prefer a less frantic life aboard a small ship. If, like them and us, you prefer a more peaceful life at sea, you will find the MS Island Sky the perfect ship. When choosing the vessel for your next voyage of discovery, you can select a ship with endless entertainment and impersonal service or come with us where peace, high quality service and attention to detail are the order of the day. We promise there will be no organised entertainment, fancy dress, deck games or any of the usual big ship experiences. The atmosphere on board is more akin to a private yacht or country hotel. A little music in the lounge or bar after dinner, guest speakers, informative port briefings from our cruise director and of course good food which may be enjoyed leisurely in the attractive dining room. After a day ashore you will return to the comfort and peace of a well run and exceedingly comfortable ship.
Your SuiteOnboard there are 57 exceptionally spacious and well designed suites. All feature a sitting room area and some have private balconies. The feeling of luxury is enhanced by the wood panelling and brass, which predominates throughout the vessel conveying the atmosphere of a private yacht. The passenger accommodation is arranged over five decks and all suites have outside views. Each affords considerable comfort with en-suite bathroom featuring marble-topped vanity unit with sink and walk-in shower, large wardrobes, dressing table with large mirror and stool and excellent storage. There is a mini-fridge, flat screen television with inbuilt DVD player which can also play CDs and a telephone in each suite. Bottled water, towelling dressing gowns and slippers are also provided for your comfort. Other facilities include a programmable electronic safe, hairdryer, assorted toiletries and individually controlled air-conditioning and heating. The suites on each deck have their own colour theme. Soft hues and blended tones enhance the traditional maritime style making the passenger accommodation an inviting and relaxing place to be.
Your SpaceThe spacious and finely decorated public rooms include a large lounge where daily briefings and talks will be provided throughout the voyage and an elegant bar where a pianist plays periodically throughout the day. The bar also features a 24-hour tea and coffee station. The onboard library is the perfect place to relax with a book and is stocked with reference books pertaining to the places the vessel is visiting along with a selection of games and two computers with internet access. Daily newspapers and magazines are also placed in the library depending on local availability. There is also WI-FI access throughout the vessel. Outside there is a rear sun deck where meals are served in warm weather under shade, a bar and comfortable deck furniture for sun bathing or relaxing with a book. On the top deck there is a Jacuzzi and further observation and sun deck. There is also a small hairdressers on board with appointments made on request.
Your DiningAnother benefit of a small ship is the quality of the cuisine. With only one sitting and a maximum of just over 100 passengers, the galley is able to provide delicious meals. Where possible and when it meets his high standards, the chef will obtain local produce in markets or buy the catch of the day from a passing fishing boat. Such purchases enhance the well stocked larders and bring a local touch to the varied menus.
