9-night Between Cote d'Azur and Sicily Voyage

Optional Private Excursions

Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!

Monaco & Eze - Full Day Tour - 8 hours

Monaco & Eze Shore Excursion

9:00 am: Be met at the pier of your boat.

Enjoy a walking tour of Monaco to view the Prince’s palace, the cathedral, Princess Grace's tomb, and to learn more about the history of this mythical city. Afterwards, visit the heart of Monte-Carlo with its Casino and the Hôtel de Paris. This tiny capital (nicknamed “the Rock”) is built into the mountainside and spreads down to the shores of the Riviera. There are sumptuous boutiques with the latest fashions, palatial luxury hotels, and very chic restaurants. You can visit the Prince's Palace, which was built on the site of a 13th-century Genovese fortress. Admire the splendor of the 16th-century Italian Gallery, the Louis XV lounge, and the 17th-century Palatine Chapel. Time permitting you could also visit the Oceanographic Museum that was inaugurated by Prince Albert I in 1910. Inside you will discover an amazing collection of marine life.

Drive on to the perched, medieval village of Eze that overlooks the Mediterranean Sea. The fortified castle’s ruins, sitting on a narrow, rocky peak, still crown this ancient village. The beach in the "baie d'Eze" is easily accessible and is shaded by pine-trees that grow down almost to the water's edge. To reach the entrance, take the small, rocky path and admire the splendid view of the gardens that surround the Château de la Chèvre d'Or. You will be seduced by the marvels of Eze: Small, narrow roads, archways and superbly restored stone houses, shady squares and refreshing ancient fountains. The numerous artisans’ boutiques are hard to resist. The two lookout towers at the entrance, the doorway and the gunboat are all listed as historic monuments.

5:00 pm: Return to your hotel.
Tour Duration: 8 hours.

Tour can operate: Any Day

Wheelchair Accessible: Yes.

Physical Activity Level: Moderate.

Included:
Deluxe minivan that can carry up to 6 passengers
Professional English-speaking guide-driver who will chauffeur you on your sightseeing-tour and is licensed to guide and accompany you on walking tours as well as into museums and monuments.
24-hour assistance available during your stay
All taxes

Not Included:
Tips
Lunch or dinner

 

Monaco & Nice - Full Day Tour - 8 hours

Monaco & Nice Shore Excursion. This excursion is perfect for those who wish to discover the chic French Riviera: in Monte-Carlo, you will get a glimpse of the glamorous Riviera and get closer to the myth of the Actress-Princess: Grace Kelly! Pursue this excursion with the beautiful city of Nice on the Riviera. You will be impressed by the colors of its market and during this afternoon you could visit Matisse Museum showing an important collection of the painter.
 

9:00 am: Be met at the foot of your cruise ship.

Enjoy a walking tour of Monaco to view the Prince’s palace, the cathedral, Princess Grace's tomb, and to learn more about the history of this mythical city. Afterwards, visit the heart of Monte-Carlo with its Casino and the Hôtel de Paris. Monaco is situated on the Cote d'Azur, between Cap d'Ail and Menton, only a few kilometers from the Italian Riviera. This tiny capital (nicknamed “the Rock”) is built into the mountainside and spreads down to the shores of the Riviera. Admire the splendor of the 16th-century Italian Gallery, the Louis XV lounge, and the 17th-century Palatine Chapel. Do not miss the Oceanographic Museum that was inaugurated by Prince Albert I in 1910. Inside you will discover an amazing collection of marine life. Enjoy lunch at leisure in a typical restaurant.

During the afternoon, go to Nice. The green pines happily rub shoulders with the blue of the Mediterranean Sea and that of the sky. It is easy to see why the Côte d’Azur fascinates so many people. Many of the artists, painters, writers, sculptors and musicians who contributed to the city’s fame, have museums here, dedicated to their works. You will view the luxurious Belle Époque-style residences, including the fabulous Négresco palace, built on the sea front. The Négresco, whose dome can be admired from the Promenade des Anglais, is the finest example of Belle Époque architecture. Visit the Russian Church (not available on Sunday mornings). Enjoy a walking tour of the old town. The streets, with names that evoke ancient guilds, such as “goldsmith” or “bankers,” are full of boutiques and shoppers.

5:00 pm: Return to your ship or to your hotel.
Tour Duration: 8 hours.

Tour can operate: Any Day

Wheelchair Accessible: Yes.

Physical Activity Level: Moderate.

Included:
Deluxe minivan that can carry up to 6 passengers
Professional English-speaking guide-driver who will chauffeur you on your sightseeing-tour and is licensed to guide and accompany you on walking tours as well as into museums and monuments.
24-hour assistance available during your stay
All taxes
Entrance fees to the Prince's Palace: €10

Not Included:
Tips
Lunch or dinner
 

Monaco: Glamorous Cote d’Azur – 8 hours

Spend a day exploring the principality of Monte Carlo and the mountains and coast that surround it. Start with a drive along the famous Corniche road to Eze, a medieval village perched dramatically on the clifftop, 1,400 feet above the Mediterranean Sea and affording splendid panoramic views along the coast. Learn more about Eze and you wander through narrow winding streets, hidden courtyards, archways and tiny boutiques.

Afterwards, drop back down to sea level and the peninsula of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat to walk around the beautiful Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, set in stunning private gardens. Béatrice de Rothschild commissioned the villa and filled it with a breath-taking collection of porcelain, artwork and furniture during her life. After your tour you will be privately transferred back to your cruise ship.

Highlights:

• Take in panoramic views of the Riviera from the medieval clifftop village of Eze
• Admire the breath-taking private gardens and porcelain collection at the beautiful Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild

Tour Duration: 8 Hours

Tour Can Operate: Morning

Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information

Physical Activity Level: Light

Inclusions:

• Private transport by luxury car or minivan
• An expert local driver-guide for 8 hours
• Entrance fees to all sights and museums
• All taxes
   

Exclusions:

• All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
• Gratuities

Optional Private Excursions

Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!

St Tropez: Highlights of St Tropez - 4 hours

St Tropez is one of a handful of place names known around the world, and for many, the very mention of the name conjures up images of the ultimate hedonistic jet-set resort. Set on the lovely blue water of the Bay of St Tropez, this modern version of a medieval town is most popular for the line of yachts along the quay, and the facing line of terrace cafés, divided by a parade of strolling tourists and slowly cruising expensive cars.
Take the time to explore the narrow little streets and markets. In the Place aux Herbes, the fishermen sell their catch and local farmers their fruit and vegetables. The real heart of the town is the Place des Lices. Here, the locals play boules under the shade of plane trees surrounded by some fine restaurants. If shopping for luxury items is your thing, all the major French and Italian designers have boutiques in St Tropez.

Highlights:

• Explore St Tropez's narrow streets and markets, where fishermen sell their fresh catch

Tour Duration: 4 hours

Tour Can Operate: Morning / Afternoon

Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information

Physical Activity Level: Light

Inclusions:
•    Private transport by luxury car or minivan
•    An expert local driver-guide for 4 hours
•    Entrance fees to all sights and museums
•    All taxes

Exclusions:
•    All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
•    Gratuities

Optional Private Excursions

Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!

Giardini Naxos: Greek Taormina Walking Tour - 3 hours

Meet your expert local guide today for the ascent up to the wonderful town of Taormina which has overlooked Mount Etna since Greek times. Perched atop a high cliff, Taormina seems to float above the azure waters of the Bay of Naxos. The air in Sicily’s most glamorous spot is perfumed with the scent of orange and lemon blossom, and here you’ll find narrow streets full of local colours and flavour.
 

Explore this little corner of paradise today with your guide. A stroll through Taormina’s main street, Corso Umberto, reveals numerous chic stores and a wealth of historic interest. Visit the Greek Theatre, whose unparalleled position offers spectacular views of Mt. Etna and the surrounding landscape.

Highlights:

• Take in the incredible views from the town of Taormina, which overlooks the Bay of Naxos
• Wonder through Taormina's charming streets and visit the Greek Theatre

Tour Duration: 3 hours

Tour can Operate: Morning/Afternoon

Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information

Physical Activity Level: Light 

Inclusions:

• Luxury car or minivan transfers between Giardini Naxos and Taormina
• An expert English-speaking guide throughout (3 hours)
• Entrance fees to the Greek Theatre
• All taxes

Exclusions:

• All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
• Gratuities

Giardini Naxos: Syracuse & Ortigia Island - 8 hours

The city of Syracuse, birthplace of Archimedes, was once described by Cicero as: "the greatest Greek city and the most beautiful of them all." What began as a small Greek outpost would eventually become one of the most prosperous and powerful states in the entire ancient world.

 

From here take a short drive to the Neapolis to visit the Greek theatre, one of the most important examples of ancient theatre architecture in the world and once the centre of Siracusan life. Testament to its stature, it is said that famous Greek playwright Aeschylus once premiered works here. Sights also include the Roman Amphitheatre and the Latonia del Paradiso, the impressive ancient stone quarries and caves - the most famous of which was named "the Ear of Dionysius" by Caravaggio for its peculiar acoustic qualities.
 

A highlight of your day will be exploring the island of Ortigia, one of Sicily's most picture-perfect destinations and known for its beautiful white baroque architecture and the 5th century BC Temple of Athena.

Highlights:

• Explore the beautiful city of Syracuse
• Visit the Greek theatre at Neapolis, one of the most important examples of ancient theatre architecture in the world
• Discover the charming island of Ortigia

Tour Duration: 8 hours

Tour Can Operate: Morning

Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information

Physical Activity Level: Light

Inclusions:

• Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
• An expert English-speaking guide throughout (8 hours)
• Entrance fees to the Neopolis Site
• All taxes

Exclusions:

• All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
• Gratuities

Giardini Naxos: Catania and Piazza Armerina - 8 hours

Enjoy two sides of Sicily today: modern life and ancient history. First stop of the day is the city of Catania, which sits at the foot of Mount Etna. Discover the very vibrant morning fish market and the many baroque buildings in the city built using the lava stones of Etna.

From here, continue into the beautiful, rural landscapes of central Sicily and the town of Piazza Armerina. Here you will visit the site of Villa Romana del Casale, considered to be one of the finest examples of aristocratic dwellings from the Western Roman Empire, both in terms of beauty and complexity. While little remains of the structure today, an unparalleled series of mosaics depict scenes from mythology, hunting and Roman domestic lifestyle in exquisite detail.

Highlights:

• Explore the city of Catania,including the morning fish market and the many buildings in the city built using the lava stones of Etna.
• Explore central Sicily and the town of Piazza Armerina, where you will visit the site of Villa Romana del Casale

Tour Duration: 8 hours

Tour can Operate: Morning

Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information

Physical Activity Level: Low

Inclusions:

• Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
• An expert English-speaking guide throughout (8 hours)
• Entrance fees to the Villa Romana del Casale
• All taxes

Exclusions:

• All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
• Gratuities