You’ll stop in some of the world’s most spectacular seaports on this 10-day voyage. Locales like Katakolon, Santorini and Rhodes await! Cruise along the Mediterranean and encounter the whitewashed villages, dramatic coastlines and azure waters of the heavenly Greek islands.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 - Cruise
Your trip begins with a regularly scheduled overnight flight to Venice?aboard an internationally recognized airline.
Day 2 - Cruise
Upon arrival in Venice, a Go Ahead representative escorts you to the harbor. If you’ve taken our pre-tour extension to Venice, join the rest of your tour today. Board your cruise ship, the Costa Fortuna, and settle in to your stateroom. Then begin to discover the spacious decks and the variety of luxurious amenities. The ship houses a casino, Italian-style piazza room, taverna, spa, pools, jacuzzis, game rooms and much more.
Included meals: breakfast (in flight), dinner
Day 3 - Cruise
Cruise the Italian Mediterranean coast along the Adriatic Sea and reach the port of Bari for a half day of exploration. You’ll have the afternoon to discover the 19th-century city on your own. You might wish to stroll through the historic Old Town with monuments and cathedrals dating back to the 10th and 11th centuries. The highlight is undoubtedly Basilica di San Nicola, which contains the remains of Saint Nicholas, better known as Santa Claus. The 11th-century basilica is situated overlooking the sea. You also might venture off to the quaint coastal towns of Molfetta and Trani, also known for their old quarters and medieval festivals. Another good choice is the nearby Castel del Monte, about 20 miles south of Bari. This ancient castle is a modern mystery—virtually no records exist of its purpose or creation. Some have surmised it was a hunting lodge or a stop for pilgrims on their quest for the Holy Grail. Return to your cruise ship early this evening for departure to Greece.
Included meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 4 - Cruise
Reaching Greece, drop anchor in Katakolon, the port nearest to the town of Olympia. It was here that the first official Olympic Games took place in 776 B.C. to honor the Greek god Zeus. You’ll have a free afternoon to explore the area. If you choose to visit the site, envision the grand stadium and arenas echoed by the remaining ruins, and the galleries once filled by thousands of cheering spectators. Or seek out the nearby beaches, coves and small coastal towns for an afternoon of relaxing and suntanning.
Included meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 5 - Cruise
Anchor this morning on Santorini, an island of stunning volcanic landscapes and black-sand beaches thought by some to be the lost city of Atlantis. Santorini’s volcanic soil is ideal for harvesting grapes, so as you admire the Mediterranean sunset, enjoy a glass of white wine for which the island is renowned. You’ll have a full free morning to explore at your leisure or join an off-shore excursion. Later this evening, arrive in the trendy island of Mykonos. On your free evening, sample the famous nightlife, discover the island’s maze-like streets and colorful neighborhoods, made all the more charming by the fact that there are no cars. See postcard-perfect whitewashed houses decked with multicolored flowers, the island’s traditional Greek churches and the windmills that are Mykonos’ best-known symbol.
Included meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 6 - Cruise
Dock first thing this morning in Rhodes, where you’ll have a full day. The largest of the Dodecanese Islands, Rhodes is one of Greece’s most popular resort areas. According to ancient myth, this island erupted from the sea to appease Helios, the sun god, after Zeus overlooked him while distributing the earth among the other gods. Rhodes was a center of Hellenistic culture in its early days, then became the territory of the medieval Knights of St. John. Its three major archaeological sites, Ialyssos, Lindos, and Kamiron, date back to the 7th century B.C. During your free time on the island, visit the ancient ruins of Rhodes, walk through the Old Town, explore the Jewish?Quarter or visit some of Rhodes’ Turkish mosques.
Included meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 7 - Cruise
Sail through the crystal-clear warm waters of the Adriatic Sea today as you make your way to Croatia. Enjoy a full free day to enjoy the ship’s spa, four swimming pools or on-board casinos. Or relax in one of the ship’s many open sunning areas.
Included meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 8 - Cruise
This morning, as you sail along the Adriatic coast, you’ll arrive early in the historic city of Dubrovnik in the Republic of Croatia. Spend a full free morning exploring this 1,300-year-old city. You might stroll through the pedestrian-only plazas of the Lapad section or climb Petka Hill for a beautiful panoramic view of the city and its harbor. Return to your ship in the early afternoon for return departure to Italy.
Included meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 9 - Venice
Your cruise ends upon your arrival in Venice. After disembarkation, experience the romance of “La Serenissima” during a guided sightseeing tour. Visit the Doges’ Palace, once the political heart of this powerful maritime empire. End by the Basilica of St. Mark, a rich mosaic of Byzantine, Romanesque and Islamic influences entombing the remains of St. Mark the Evangelist. Later, transfer to your hotel for this evening’s included Farewell Dinner.
Included meals: breakfast, dinner
Included entrances: Doge’s Palace
Day 10 - Venice
A Go Ahead representative escorts you to the airport for your flight home.
Included meals: breakfast
(In the case of early morning departures, breakfast may not be provided.)
Extend Your Stay
Add 2 nights in Venice for only $379 USD (Single room: add $105 USD)
All the picture books in the world won't prepare you for the sight of Venice's gilded palaces rising from the sea. Explore the city's many famous churches and museums, but set aside time to get lost in the maze of canals and streets. Deceptive and mysterious, Venice has a soft spot for wanderers—and to them she will open her heart.