Our 5-star fleet offers an authentic sailing experience to make your journey unforgettable. While onboard, indulge in a relaxing massage at the spa, or try hot-rock cooking at the onboard restaurant. Then, disembark for an eye-opening visit to a local winery or a walking tour of some of the world’s most iconic cities and undiscovered gems. All the while, enjoy these world-class ship amenities:

• 77 cabins, including a landmark 15 solo cabins, most of which have full walk-out balconies, for the most flexible style of travel — plus, suites designed for comfortable triple-occupancy as well as adjoining room options
• A culinary program offering gourmet dining incorporating regional fare, with wine and beer included at dinner
• Spa, massage, and hair services available at the onboard spa
• Sauna
• Two hot tubs
• Fitness center
• Curated lectures, programs, musical performances, and cultural events
• Low passenger-to-crew ratio, plus onboard Destination Manager
• Knowledgeable staff by region
• Onboard medical doctor (travelers are responsible for medical fees associated with doctor visit and medications)
• Gift Shop
• Library with over 200 titles
• Separate, intimate dining space for groups or special events (available upon request)
• Complimentary unlimited WiFi (WiFi on certain segments of trips may not be available)
• Entertainment programming with 100 movie titles
• Environmentally friendly standards with reduced emissions into air and sea and lower energy consumption
• Dynamic positioning technology
• State-of-the-art safety technology, Polar Code 6 compliant, and fully compliant with the latest SOLAS requirements in expedition cruising
• Rolls-Royce stabilizer system; “Safe Return to Port” technology

During the course of your adventure, you will have opportunities for active walks and explorations of ancient ruins and medieval cities, including longer treks and climbs to overlooks for spectacular views. There will also be opportunities for swimming (weather dependent) and for taking kayaks off the ship to explore your beautiful surroundings.

• Kayak or snorkel in Sharm El Sheikh, home to one of the world’s most pristine marine environments, admiring colorful coral reefs and crystalline waters
• Enjoy extensive walking in Petra
• Take a swim in Israel’s Dead Sea or explore Old Jerusalem and other sacred sites by foot
• Follow Santorini’s narrow streets and twisting staircases during our explorations of this intriguing island. Afterwards, descend by cable car to the port area. Note that you will be tendering to shore in Santorini
• Take advantage of opportunities in Mykonos for swimming
• Walk around Athens’ charming Plaka district, the old town at the foot of the Acropolis, where you can explore flower-bedecked streets and stop into a restaurant or café. Climb the hill to the Acropolis, then enjoy a walking tour that includes the Parthenon
• Hike up to Hvar Fortress for magnificent views
• Make the mile-and-a-quarter trek uphill to St. Euphemia church, in the coastal town of Rovinj
• Enjoy lovely views on the Opatija Promenade, where a round-trip walk can cover up to 7.5 miles

A long and storied history of arts and culture await you in this enriching journey.

• Stroll the culture-rich streets of Amman, Jordan’s cosmopolitan capital
• Discover the art of Petra's Treasury
• Visit the Coptic Orthodox church in Sharm El Sheikh, considered one of the top 10 most beautiful modern churches in the world
• Marvel at the fantastically preserved mosaic floors of the Houses of Dionysos, Aion and Theseus on Cyprus, OR visit the Cypriot village of Choirokoitia and observe a cheese-making and basket-weaving demonstration in a local home
• Sample tasty Greek appetizers and sip ouzo during a tour break on Mykonos
• Admire the fascinating pottery, arts, and other profound cultural influences at the Acropolis, Pompeii and other archaeological sites
• Enjoy a dinner onboard with "klapa" singers, a UNESCO protected cultural heritage of Croatia
• Discover Erice’s “salt road”
• Circumnavigate Sicily and learn about the unique culture of this fascinating island
• Discover the unique trulli homes in the town of Alberobello, localed in Italy’s Puglia region
• Enjoy nights of local onboard entertainment
• Tour Tempio Pausania, the ancient capital of the Sardinia region, and discover historic churches, houses, and mansions before stopping to visit the cork museum
• Stop in at Villa San Martino, Napoleon’s summer residence on Elba Island
• Enjoy your choice of tours: Florence and Pisa — including highlights such as the domed cathedral of Piazza del Duomo and Piazza del Signoria, OR Siena and Sam Gimignano, with morning sightseeing in Siena and lunch with a wine tasting in local estate
• Visit elegant Cannes, home of France’s world-famous film festival, and enjoy a tour of its highlights including a visit to the Grasse Perfume Factory and artistic St. Paul de Vence
• See the exterior of La Sagrada Família, a Roman Catholic minor basilica and masterpiece of Spanish architect Antoni Gaudí. You may also choose to tour the inside
• Visit the Picasso Museum in Málaga, where the artist was born
• Lunch in Alhambra fortress Parador Hotel in Granada
• Learn about bullfighting during a visit to an arena in scenic Ronda
• Admire the intricately designed azulejo tiles that adorn cathedrals, castles, and many other buildings in Portugal
• Tour Lisbon’s landmarks, including UNESCO-listed Belém Tower
• Visit to Mont-Saint Michel
• Enjoy a full-day exploration of Santiago de Compostela, one of the most sacred places in the world for Christian pilgrims
• Shop for renowned arts and crafts on Belle-Île, a sandy and secluded isle off France’s Brittany coastline
• Spend two days discovering wine and culture in Bordeaux, with your choice of tours — Saint-Emilion or Arcachon

Visit 28 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including: Jerusalem or Masada, Paphos or Choirokitia, Rhodes, Ephesus, the Acropolis, ancient Messini, Olympia, Corfu, Kotor and the Bay of Kotor, Dubrovnik Old City, Hvar Starigrad Plain, Fort of St. Nichols and St. Jacob's Cathedral, Defensive Walls of Zadar, Diocletian's Palace, Alberobello, Etna (optional), Siracusa, Valletta, Aeolian Islands, Pompeii, Rome, Siena and San Gimignano or Florence and Pisa, Portovenere and Cinque Terre, Historic Carcassonne, and the works of Antoni Gaudi at the Sagrada Familia

• Marvel at the rock-carved city of Petra, etched into the red sandstone of Jordan’s desert
• Step into prehistory at the archaeological site of Akrotiri, frozen in time by a volcanic eruption around 1600 BC
• Stroll the cobbled streets of Rhodes, Europe’s oldest still-inhabited medieval enclave
• Walk the ancient lanes of Ephesus and perhaps hear the echoes of St. Paul, who once preached here
• Explore the Acropolis of Athens, grandly perched atop a dramatic hill overlooking the city
• Enjoy your choice of tours, both UNESCO-listed: Paphos, or Choirokoitia Village
• Visit Jerusalem, Nazareth, and Sea of Galilee
• In UNESCO-listed Olympia, alongside temples, there are remains of various sporting venues from the festive games that began in 776 B.C.
• Delight in the natural beauty of the Bay of Kotor, a UNESCO-listed waterway and medieval town
• Step inside the trulli homes in UNESCO-listed Alberobello
• Circumnavigate Sicily and visit three of its most interesting coastal towns
• Uncover Maltese history in its historic capital, Valletta, and in a 5D movie experience
• Tour the ruins of ancient Pompeii
• Explore the UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace while taking in Split’s spectacular seaside beauty
• Visit Monte Carlo and see the glittering Royal Palace and the burial site of Grace Kelly, Princess of Monaco
• Admire the UNESCO-designated architecture of visionary Antoni Gaudí in Barcelona
• Stop in at Villa San Martino, Napoleon’s summer residence on Elba Island
• Tour Tempio Pausania, the ancient capital of the Sardinia region, and discover historic churches, houses, and mansions
• Marvel at the massive La Seu Cathedral of Palma de Majorca
• See the historic Roman Theatre of Cartagena
• Explore the gorge-hugging city of Ronda, a Moorish and Spanish jewel beloved by Hemingway
• Visit Gibraltar, which has been a British territory longer than the United States has been in existence
• Learn about the castles and cathedrals of The Algarve during visits to Silves and Monchique
• See the monuments of Lisbon that honor its central role in the Age of Discovery
• Explore San Sebastián’s historic Parte Vieja (Old Town)
• Learn the WWII history of Brest, France
• Visit the Benedictine abbey of Mont Saint-Michel
• Visit Oviedo, where the original Way of St. James began
• Discover the island of Belle-Île, a sandy and secluded outpost off France’s Brittany coastline
• Visit London's Imperial War Room

The soul-stirring beauty of the natural world greets you at every turn, from the glittering waters of the Adriatic to Portugal’s Algarve region.

• Experience awe-inspiring Petra, a prehistoric city that was carved into the pink sandstone cliffs of Jordan’s southwestern desert
• Grab your included binoculars to marvel at vast desert vistas that surround the Suez Canal during a two-day crossing
• Enjoy a scenic boat ride across the stunning Sea of Galilee
• Marvel at the varied and intense beauty of the Israel countryside during included tours
• Take in the stark beauty of the Dead Sea as you float upon its famously buoyant waters
• Sail the Aegean, passing through the Cyclades island cluster
• With its narrow profile and steep walls, the UNESCO-listed Bay of Kotor is often called Europe’s southernmost fjord
• Visit Krka National Park, where waterfalls tumble into dramatic gorges
• Discover Hvar, an island known for its vast fields of lavender, ancient olive trees, and fruit orchards
• Enjoy lunch in a masseria (country estate) in Puglia
• Discover different wine varietals and the unique soul and climate that helps them flourish
• Find out how Mediterranean sea salt is made along the salt road in Erice
• Visit several volcanic sites, including Etna and Pompeii
• Take in the beauty of Cinque Terre on a private boat tour
• Choose between two tours of breathtaking natural scenery: In Provence, a hike to the red cliffs and ochre quarries of Roussillon, or a half-day safari through Camargue National Park
• Take the opportunity to admire Bastia’s breathtaking landscapes and small, baroque-style buildings and chapels
• Enjoy a scenic drive along the scenic St. Florent gulf past rolling vineyards en route to the St. Florent city center
• Enjoy scenic views of the Tuscan countryside on your choice of tours from Livorno
• Enjoy a comprehensive view of the beauty of Provence on full-day tour from Cannes to St. Paul de Vence
• See some of the world’s oldest olive trees in Old Sardinia, or learn about winemaking process in Porto Cervo
• Embark on a narrated cruise up the Guadalquivir River and through the beautiful wetlands of UNESCO-listed Doñana National Park
• Step ashore on the Rock of Gibraltar and take in the expansive views of both Europe and Africa. Our tour includes a funicular ride to the Castle of Gibraltar — keep your eyes peeled and cameras ready in case you catch a glimpse of the famed Barbary apes (macaques) that reside here

Few things reveal as much about a culture and its people as the food they eat. This journey is curated to introduce you to the most distinctive cuisine of the regions we visit.

• Athens restaurants are world-class, but so is its street food — at a fraction of the cost. Don't miss souvlaki, fava purée and pita, a classic Greek salad, or anything with feta cheese
• Enjoy a traditional Greek lunch at the Magna Grecia Greek Farm. Sample its house made wine and olive oils while being regaled with local entertainment
• Visit Jurlinovi Dvori, a local village estate, for a lunch of local specialties and wine Enjoy lunch at a local masseria (country estate) in Puglia
• Granita or wine tasting (depending on choice of tour) in Taormina
• Wine tasting at a private Sicilian winery
• Home-hosted lunch with pizza-making demonstration at a local farm outside Pompeii
• Purchase Mediterranean Sea salt in the town of Erice, and see how it’s made
• Choose to visit a locally owned farm and vineyard in Siena, where you’ll enjoy a farm-to-table lunch complete with a tasting of their wines and olive oils. Or, savor traditional Florentine cuisine at a local restaurant
• Enjoy a traditional lunch at a local restaurant after exploring the villages of Cinque Terre
• Enjoy a traditional Spanish Lunch in a local restaurant in Barcelona
• Try Roman specialties at a local restaurant during an included lunch in Rome
• Enjoy dinner at the bull farm of a Seville family, featuring traditional favorites prepared by your hosts
• Savor seafood and French fare on the island of Belle-Île
• Sample pastéis de Belém custard pastries, Portugal’s favorite treat, in Lisbon
• Request restaurant reservations with our worldwide Concierge — specially in Bordeaux, where you’ll have access to many Michelin-starred French restaurants
• Enjoy opportunities to dine on your own throughout your journey

The world’s religious sites often add a powerful spiritual and deeply personal meaning to any journey. Here are some soul-stirring places you’ll visit during your trip:

• Admire the architectural splendor of the Mustafa Mosque and the Coptic Orthodox Church in Sharm El Sheikh
• Be inspired by comprehensive tours in Israel that take in some of the most moving sites of biblical history such as Jerusalem, Mount of Olives, Capernaum, the Basilica of Annunciation, and more
• Visit the Sea of Galilee, where Jesus is said to have walked on water
• Visit Rhodes and its enormous Grand Masters Palace, built by the Knights of St. John upon their return from the Crusades
• View the Panagia Tourliani Monastery in Mykonos, built by monks in 1542 and dedicated to the Virgin Mary
• Visit Nazareth, where Jesus lived with Mary and Joseph, and marvel at the mosaic-filled Basilica of the Annunciation
• See the Seville Cathedral and have the opportunity to climb to the top of its soaring La Giralda Tower
• See some of the Jerónimos Monastery during a tour of Lisbon
• Visit one of the largest fortresses in the Arab world in Andalusia
• Witness the glory of Gaudí’s La Sagrada Família with ticketed entrance and an outside visit in Barcelona
• A full-day exploration of the Santiago de Compostela, one of the most sacred places in the world for Christian pilgrims
• A visit to the Benedictine abbey of Mont Saint-Michel
• A visit to Oviedo, where the original Way of St. James began
• Explore San Sebastián’s Santa Maria Church and Good Shepherd Cathedral
• Visit Lisbon's Jerónimos Monastery
• Panoramic tour of Westminster Abbey in London

Raise a glass to celebrate your discoveries! You’ll also enjoy opportunities to dine on your own and discover regional wines.

• Enjoy a selection hand-picked local wines aboard the 5-star Ocean Odyssey, with the presence of a sommelier to inform your tastings
• Join in on a traditional Greek lunch at Magna Grecia Greek Farm. Sample its house made wine and olive oils while being regaled with local entertainment to boot
• Visit Jurlinovi Dvori, a local village estate in hills of Primosten, famous for its strong Babic wine, that you will try during included lunch there
• Enjoy a wine tasting at a private Sicilian winery in Erice
• In Taormina, choose the Mount Etna tour for a winery visit and tasting
• In Sardinia, you may choose to visit famous Surrau Winery
• From Bastia, head to the Patrimonio wine region and enjoy a tasting at local winery
• You may choose to visit Siena and San Gimignano while docked in Livorno, which includes a visit to a local winery, lunch, and a tasting
• While docked in Sete, you may choose to embark on a half-day tour of Montpellier and Chateau de Flaugergues, which holds centuries of wine-making tradition
• Included port wine tasting in Porto
• Spend two full days in Bordeaux, with an opportunity for a wine tasting in UNESCO-listed Saint-Emilion
• Enjoy a guided tour and wine tasting at Bordeaux’s La Cité du Vin wine museum, founded in 2016

You’ll enjoy a spectrum of picturesque sights and scenes on this journey. Here are a few tips to help you photograph them along the way — from timeless monuments to sweeping seascapes to intimate portraits of daily life. Here are a few tips to help you photograph them along the way:

• Don’t be afraid of the dark! Exploring cities and landmarks at night offers different lighting and unique new perspectives — just make sure you have a tripod or your camera comes equipped with a night feature!
• Change your perspective. Try shooting from a different angle, for example. Climb a stairwell and shoot a landscape from up high or, alternately, get low and shoot a scene from the ground. Wherever you are, embrace this artistic challenge by getting out of your comfort zone!
• Take a selfie! You’ll be glad to have a few portraits of yourself at the distinctive landmarks you’ll find on this journey
• Look beyond the landmarks. Sometimes everyday scenes are just as inspiring and provide a lesson in embracing the unexpected and seizing the moment in front of you!

On this small ship ocean cruise, independent travelers will enjoy solo-friendly features, such as:

• Onboard Destination Manager services to personalize your expedition
• Water-sport opportunities, depending on the location
• A lively social media night and musical performances most nights
• Solo-friendly social activities, including a Solo Connection mixer
• Onboard entertainment, lectures, and cooking demonstrations
• Health and wellness options, including onboard spa, jacuzzis, and a gym

Prior to your expedition cruise, our complimentary Concierge service will be available to help you customize your journey. Here are just a few services your Concierge can provide:

• Do you have a special birthday, anniversary, family reunion or other important event you want to celebrate on board? Let your Concierge know and he or she can make all the special arrangements, whether it’s a private reception in your suite, a gathering in the lounge, and more
• Restaurant reservations. Just notify your Concierge of your interests, and he or she will be happy to make recommendations, and will call ahead to reserve your table
• Special excursions. Would you like a limo to take you for a special night in the city? Perhaps you’d like to look up long-lost relatives. Your Concierge is here to help!
• Extend your stay! Your Concierge can help modify your hotel reservations and flights if you decide to stay on
• Tickets to local concerts, exhibits, theater, sporting events, and more

Take advantage of this free, start-to-finish service by making your requests prior to your journey or during your journey. We are one of the only companies to offer this level of service! Call 1-888-982-6824 or email Concierge@vantagetravel.com to speak to a Concierge today, or simply log into My Portfolio up to two weeks prior to departure.

During your journey, your onboard Destination Manager can assist with any special requests such as spa reservations, hotel reservations, and more.