Here is a wonderful opportunity to discover the Italian islands of Elba, Sardinia and Sicily combined with a day on the beautiful French island of Corsica. All of the islands we will call into are easy enough to visit individually but difficult to combine independently in a nine night trip. The islands feature an array of ancient ruins, attractive towns and villages and we will have time on each to visit the main sites but to also explore some of the smaller ports and less visited regions. We have ensured that each day has an enjoyable mix of culture with guided excursions as well as ample time at leisure. Our voyage is planned for late summer, the perfect time of year for exploration, when the crowds of August have dispersed but the weather is ideal for touring and sightseeing. In addition we have the pleasure of cruising aboard the all-suite MS Island Sky which with just over 100 passengers is able to visit atmospheric ports and villages which the big ships cannot access.
Sailing from the French Riviera, we will cruise to the enchanting island of Elba, best known as Napoleon’s island of exile. From there we continue to Corsica which, despite officially being a part of France, has its own identity in everything from customs to language and benefits from magnificent geographical diversity ranging from stunning natural harbours to picture perfect hilltop villages and a majestic countryside. Leaving the charms of Corsica behind we spend two days in Sardinia where we discover the Medieval city of Alghero and Nuraghe Palmavera and from Cagliari, will have the opportunity to visit the wonderful ruins of Nora. Our last days are spent on Sicily which, with a history of 3000 years has a wealth of sites to discover from magnificent Doric temples to great Byzantine cathedrals and bizarrely styled villas.
This is a voyage that will appeal to those who love Italy, and who enjoy hopping between islands. Local guides and our onboard Guest Speaker will contribute greatly to our enjoyment and understanding of these Italian gems and you will find yourself wanting to return time and time again.
- Elba, Napoleon's Exile: Explore the charming island of Elba, famous as Napoleon's place of exile. Visit Villa San Martino, which was Napoleon's summer residence and has been transformed into a museum. You'll also have the opportunity to sample local wines at the La Chiusa wine estate, which claims to have hosted Napoleon during his exile.
- Picturesque Bonifacio, Corsica: Bonifacio, perched on cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean, is a stunning natural harbor. Explore the narrow streets, historical sites, and the clifftop views of this charming town. It's known for its relaxed pace and breathtaking setting.
- Sardinia's Historical Treasures: Discover the historical sites of Sardinia with visits to Nuraghe Palmavera, an ancient Phoenician, Carthaginian, and Roman settlement. Explore the well-preserved Roman ruins and the unique archaeological site of Nora. In the afternoon, explore the old town of Cagliari with its narrow streets and terraced squares.
- Sicilian Highlights: Your journey continues through Sicily with visits to Palermo and Taormina. Explore the picturesque streets of Palermo, famous for its diverse heritage and historic architecture. Alternatively, visit Monreale Cathedral, renowned for its stunning Byzantine mosaics. In Taormina, a walled town near Mount Etna, you can explore the characteristic alleys and visit the Greek Theatre with breathtaking views over the town and coast.
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.
