Rediscovering the classical World!
A VOYAGE FROM ROME TO CONSTANTINOPLE
October 2-11, 2008

Enshrined in the art and architecture of the Mediterranean are the legends of classical history that shaped western civilization. On this splendid cultural odyssey we invite you to discover such seminal destinations as Paestum and Syracuse, Athens and Santorini, Ephesus and Pergamon. Along the way we will enjoy privileged access to events and attractions that are off-limits to the public, including a palace reception hosted by a Sicilian baron and a special dinner in the courtyard of the majestic Library of Celsus in fabled Ephesus.

Far from an ordinary cruise, this is a rare opportunity to explore the region’s historic ancient sites with leading archaeologists and preservationists. At the Acropolis of Athens and on the island of Santorini, you’ll enjoy the insights of our guest lecturers, Professors John Papadopoulos, an expert in the history and culture of ancient Greece, and Sarah Morris, an experienced field archaeologist. At Ephesus we’ve arranged for a private guide to take you behind the scenes, giving you access to the latest excavations and restorations of this magnificent site. Illuminating the connection between the architecture of the classical world and the present will be Andrew Kepler, a New York-based architect who will accompany us throughout the journey.

In conjunction with this unforgettable cruise, we are pleased to offer two optional extensions. Prior to embarkation, you may spend two art-packed days in Rome, including visits to the Centrale Montemartini sculpture museum, Nero’s Domus Aurea and Ostia Antica, the ancient port city of Rome. We will also savor a private visit and dinner at a 17th-century palace, Palazzo Doria Pamphilj, and meet with archaeologists and preservationists about Rome’s makeover plans. And following the cruise, you may elect to prolong the adventure for one night in Istanbul. Here we will tour famed Hagia Sophia, the Sulemaniye Mosque and the Topkapi Palace, in addition to enjoying a private dinner cruise along the Bosphorus to and from the exclusive pier of the Ciragan Palace Hotel.

Our ship is as splendid as our itinerary. Corinthian II is a deluxe yacht that accommodates only 114 guests in 57 suites. This lovely small cruise ship is spacious, exquisitely furnished and offers broad, comfortable decks for sunning and taking in the passing scene. At once large enough to offer all the amenities of a large cruise ship, such as a spacious restaurant, two comfortable lounges and a sun deck with a Jacuzzi, she is small enough to navigate tiny inlets and berth in exclusive harbors.

We look forward to welcoming you aboard this extraordinary Mediterranean passage.

$5,995 + air (airfare special from JFK, just $650 per person + tax)!

Brochure (Requires an Adobe pdf reader to view)