Oceania Cruises has an impressive range of immersive experiences planned for the Mediterranean in 2024. Guests will have the opportunity to explore both popular cultural capitals and hidden treasures.
The voyages will depart from various cities, including Civitavecchia-Rome, Barcelona, Lisbon, Piraeus-Athens, and Tilbury-London. The voyages will take place on Marina, Riviera, Sirena, and Oceania Cruises' newest ship, Vista. These meticulously planned itineraries are perfect for travelers who want to delve into the rich history, ancient cultures, cuisine, and traditions of the region. The duration of the sailings ranges from seven days to a 59-day Grand Voyage from Miami to Rome.
With a total of 94 distinct itineraries covering the entire region, guests will have plenty of options to choose from. There will be hundreds of small-group, immersive shore excursions available, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the Mediterranean experience. Whether it's searching for truffles near Rome, exploring lesser-known active volcanoes in Santorini, or learning flamenco in Seville, guests will have the chance to savor the sweet life of the Mediterranean.
For food and wine enthusiasts, there will be specialized tours like Food & Wine Trails and Culinary Discovery Tours that focus on Mediterranean cooking traditions. These intimate tours are designed for epicurean travelers who want to indulge in local cuisine and wines. Additionally, there will be Beyond Blueprints tours, which provide exclusive behind-the-scenes access to iconic buildings and landmarks, enhancing guests' appreciation for architecture. Go Green Tours will offer enriching experiences that highlight local communities and businesses' efforts to conserve and sustain their environments. Finally, Go Local tours will give travelers the opportunity to immerse themselves in communities for unique and engaging experiences.
One of the destinations on the itinerary is Syracuse Sicily. This 2700-year-old city is known for its cathedrals, vineyards, and beautiful beaches. Guests can explore Siracusa's ancient ruins, admire the view of Mount Etna, and take a cruise around Ortigia Island - Syracuse's most picturesque asset.
Valencia, known as the historic paella capital of Spain, is another highlight. Guests can visit a local farm and personally select fresh ingredients to make their own authentic paella. Valencia is famous for its seafood, oranges, and the remarkable City of Arts and Sciences. Exploring the city by bike allows guests to take in the old town and visit the 13th-century cathedral.
Ephesus in Turkey is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. The Ephesus Museum provides insights into the city's ancient past as a prominent trading post in the Mediterranean. Visitors can also observe a carpet weaving demonstration, learn traditional techniques in a handicraft center, or join locals in a small village outside Ephesus to help with the harvest and enjoy a hearty breakfast together.
Provence in southern France offers breathtaking views and delectable Mediterranean flavors. Guests can wander through the charming streets and squares of Saint-Remy-de-Provence, savoring lavender ice cream and discovering where Van Gogh lived. Cheese and wine tasting in Avignon and exploring medieval villages and a lavender museum in Luberon are also available. Food enthusiasts can embark on a truffle hunting adventure in the Provençal countryside, followed by a tasting paired with local wines.
A visit to Montenegro provides a striking contrast for guests. In Kotor, guests can explore the city walls in an exclusive group tour and visit the Neoclassical Museum of King Nikola. Alternatively, they can board a small boat to discover the enchanting Gospa Islet, believed to have been created by dropping a rock into the bay after each successful voyage.
Santorini, known for its iconic beauty, offers a range of experiences. Guests can enjoy cocktails or wine tastings against the backdrop of Santorini's stunning white walls and the turquoise Ionian Sea. Those seeking adventure can climb to the crater's rim of a still-active volcano on the 400-year-old islet of Nea Kameni and then cool off with a swim in the warm thermal springs.
Starting from July 1st, 2023, Oceania Cruises is offering its guests an enhanced experience called MORE™. This includes free roundtrip airfare, free airport transfers, a free shore excursion credit of up to $1,600, and a free beverage package for all guests who make new reservations starting from that date for sailings departing on or after October 1st, 2023. This value promise aims to elevate the guest experience, create lasting memories in enticing destinations, and provide access to exquisite indulgences.