Just imagine this: gentle waves rhythmically lapping against a wind-driven hull, the smell of the salty spray on the freshening breeze, the huge taut sails majestically towering above, reflecting the dazzling sun which glints on the clear azure waters before you; a pod of young dolphins playfully dance in the curling bow wave and the backdrop – some of the most outstandingly beautiful coastlines in the world. Nothing beats the romance of being at sea on a true ‘Tall Ship’ so we invite you to join us aboard the magnificent SPV Royal Clipper- where ultimate relaxation and pampering awaits you!
This beautifully, traditionally built ship is living proof that craftsmanship is far from dead with both making extensive use of rich hardwoods, polished brass and wrought iron fittings, marble, deep pile carpets and tasteful furnishings which all together have created a ship of outstanding harmony, beauty and luxury. The Royal Clipper is not an ocean cruise ship and is of a sufficiently intimate size to sail close to the shore where the views are stunning, plus visiting small, fascinating ports: so not only do you have a wonderful seafaring experience, you are simultaneously able to learn much about the areas you are sailing through.
Ships are nothing without their crew and as you would expect on this prestigious craft, from the Stewards to the Captain – all are consummate professionals. You will love the informality of life on board too and you will be amazed that even within the confines of the ship you can always find places to be alone if you wish, perhaps catch up on some reading or as the sun sets, just lean over the teak rail, drink in hand and reflect how good life can be.
Itinerary
Arrival in Rome
Arrive in Rome where we stay one night. Your hotel is the four-star Crowne Plaza Hotel St Peter's with breakfast.
Rome
Rome was, is and always will be, one of the world’s most compelling cities with probably more to see here than in any other capital on earth. Boasting an uninterrupted recorded history for upwards of 2,500 years, nowhere else seems to have managed to combine, and with such finesse, a heritage of classical antiquities and medieval buildings from Renaissance palaces to intricate baroque piazzas.
The grandeur of the Colosseum, scene of some of the most cruel acts ever committed, the Appian Way where Spartacus was crucified, the magnificence of St. Peter’s, the grandeur of the Vatican, the Trevi Fountain and flamboyant Baroque buildings are all here – and the list is endless. But Rome is much more than monuments alone, incredible though they are!
A city is nothing without people and Rome’s citizens have been amongst the most colourful in history with probably nowhere having been visited by so many of the world’s famous for so long: Julius Caesar, Cleopatra, Nero, Atilla the Hun, St Peter, the Medici, Michelangelo, Napoleon, and Byron - all captivated by its magnificence.
There is a host of other things to experience too. Take a coffee in the famous Caffè Greco, once the haunt of Keats, Byron and Wagner. You could shop along the Via Condotti for some of the finest clothes you will find anywhere – fashion straight from the catwalk.
Perhaps the most satisfying activity though, is simply to wander where your feet take you and explore this wonderful city at your leisure stopping off where you wish. Rome will not fail to captivate you.
Board the Royal Clipper
This afternoon the adventure begins. We drive to the port of Civitavecchia to board the SPV Royal Clipper and the crew, ready to welcome you, ensure you settle in and familiarise yourself with the ship, your first-class floating hotel.
As we sit down for the first of our delectable dinners, the ship gently slips her mooring and heads off into the Tyrrhenian Sea – bon voyage!
Included experience:
Guided tour of Rome.
Sorrento*
The first morning on board is always a thrill: the unique sound of the hull powerfully cutting through the clear waters below is quite electrifying.
Today we anchor below the multihued villas of Sorrento, which came to fame during the late 18th century when it became part of the ‘Grand Tour’ for Europe’s aristocracy. Today it’s everything you imagine an Italian town to be: cobbled streets and quaint squares, bright flowers decorating every pastel-coloured, crumbling building, the stylish young astride their ‘Vespa's’ and the wondrous aroma of fresh coffee drifting from the pavement cafés which grace almost every street corner.
*Ship is expected to anchor at this port and guests will be tendered ashore.
Pompeii
Alternatively, you can visit nearby Pompeii where we have an included guided tour of this amazing site. The story is well known, but this is more than a series of ruins; the state of preservation is remarkable and even if you are not so interested in the history, you cannot fail to be moved by the scale of the city, the construction of which puts many of our modern structures to shame.
Much of our knowledge of the life of the ordinary Roman, their habits, social structure, class systems and domestic arrangements comes from the excavations at Pompeii. Some of the baths are virtually complete, as are various murals and mosaics, with some buildings displaying graffiti describing political events of the period, romantic entanglements and some just plain gossip!
You can even see the traffic calming measures and how the one-way system operated and appreciate the high standard of living of the Roman elite. You will be moved by the simultaneously fascinating yet eerie, pained expressions of the victims of Vesuvius, preserved as a monument for all time.
Included experiences:
Visit to Sorrento & guided tour of Pompeii.
Capri*
This morning feast your eyes on the legendary coast of Capri! Cited by most guidebooks as Europe’s most beautiful, a claim, once seen, it is difficult to refute. High ochre-coloured cliffs, topped with thick forest plunge dramatically into the calm blue Mediterranean, with sea birds soaring on the many thermals and the air full of the scent of pine forests and wildflowers.
Capri has long been sought after: three Roman Emperors were attracted here; both D.H. Lawrence and George Bernard Shaw sought inspiration, whilst Graham Greene and Gracie Fields made it their home. It is easy to see why it is so adored: as we approach the island, you can see fishing boats at anchor rising and falling with the waves and pretty shops lining the quaint quayside.
The picturesque main town is perched high above, and you may wish to visit the ‘Blue Grotto’ whilst you are here, a large cavern reachable only by boat, and which by a freak of nature is bathed in an incandescent blue light.
Early evening, we return to the Royal Clipper and as we enjoy another magnificent sunset we set sail southwards towards Sicily, passing the volcanic Aeolian Islands and the occasionally glowing crater of Stromboli during the night.
*Ship is expected to anchor at this port and guests will be tendered ashore.
Included experience:
Visit to Capri.
Taormina*
This morning you awake on the eastern shore of Sicily sailing towards the bay of Taormina. This is one of the smartest and most exclusive small towns in Italy and you would find it difficult to find a more agreeable spot in which to spend the day! Retaining much of its medieval charm, wonderfully situated on a high balcony, facing Etna and overlooking the sea, it is renowned for its beautiful gardens and peaceful atmosphere.
Today, its short main street is lined by smart designer boutiques and exclusive jewellers with tiny side streets, some of which are so narrow you can touch both sides at once, leading to intimate piazzas lined with atmospheric family-run restaurants. As you would expect in a country so famous for its cuisine, speciality food shops selling fresh pasta, olives, Sicilian wine and the local Marsala abound. Splashes of vibrant colour from the smart window boxes and stylish locals deep in animated conversation complete the picture.
After lunch on board, our included tour of Taormina takes in its greatest claim to fame: its amazing theatre, a legacy of the ancient Greeks. Wonderfully preserved and still in use today, it has a panoramic view of Etna, Europe’s highest volcano, as its awesome natural backdrop!
*Ship is expected to anchor at this port and guests will be tendered ashore.
Included experience:
Guided tour of Taormina.
At sea
As the wind fills the sails today, we head east across the Adriatic past the southernmost point of Italy towards the coastline of the Peloponnese in Greece. We are at sea today, so what is it to be? Top up your tan on the sun deck or have a dip in one of the pools. You are most welcome to visit the bridge too, but for the most outstanding view of all why not climb up to the ‘crow’s nest’ (with harness!) or perhaps just catch up on some reading.
Let your mind wander and reflect on who, in the same manner, has crossed these seas before you: Julius Caesar, Cleopatra, the Crusaders, the Venetians, Napoleon and countless others.
Katakolon & Ancient Olympia
This morning we arrive in Katakolon, a small port on the western coast of the Peloponnese and the gateway to one of the world’s greatest ancient sites: Olympia.
The ancient Olympic Games were as major an occasion then as they are today – though hopefully cheaper to stage! Taking place every four years, the ancient stadium had a staggering capacity of 45,000, a huge number and a clear indication of the event’s importance.
All military conflicts ceased for the duration and huge rewards were conferred on the winners, whilst penalties for cheating included fines, bans and public embarrassment - how little has changed!
The Olympiad continued for about 1,000 years and this morning we experience a fascinating optional tour of the site, also visiting the excellent museum housing numerous extraordinary finds, which include superb bronze artefacts displaying exquisite workmanship.
Corfu
This morning we arrive in the enchanting island of Corfu, at the mouth of the Adriatic. Between Italy and mainland Greece, with just a narrow channel of sea separating it from Albania. This is Greece’s emerald isle, cloaked in olive, pine and cypress trees and well renowned for the beauty of its spectacular coastline.
The island has a chequered past: colonised by the ancient Corinthians, then the Romans and the Byzantines, it fell to the Venetians, was captured by the French, and finally the British, before joining modern Greece in 1864. All have influenced picturesque Corfu Town, one of the most attractive and best-preserved medieval towns in Europe which owes much of its charm to the disparate architectural elements it contains: its two massive Venetian fortresses and the grand palaces and public buildings from the French and British eras.
We have a choice of two included tours. Our Achilleion & Corfu Town trip visits the splendid palace built by the Empress Elizabeth of Austria, also used by the Greek royal family. We return to Corfu Town, for a walking tour amongst the maze of charming narrow lanes, ending with some free time around the ‘Spianada’, the town’s main square, lined with cafés where you can relax with some traditional meze.
Our second option is a drive towards the famous bays of Paleokastritsa, known as the Amalfi coast of Greece. As you cross the countryside, you’ll see how little things have changed: in the villages black-robed women carrying firewood still ride along side-saddle on their mules! We visit the Byzantine Monastery of the Virgin – still inhabited by a community of monks – and its small museum, housing a unique collection of Byzantine icons. From the gardens you can admire breathtaking views over the beautiful bays of Paleokastritsa below, with their crystal-clear waters and rocky promontories. Opposite is the 13th century fort of Angelokastro, perched high on a rocky pillar, rising a thousand feet from the sea. We return to the Old Town of Corfu for a walking tour and some free time.
The Royal Clipper sets sail from Corfu in the late afternoon.
Included experiences:
Achilleion & Corfu Town trip or Paleokastritsa monastery visit & Corfu Old Town tour.
Kotor*
By morning you will have crossed into outstandingly beautiful Montenegro with its sapphire-blue coastline. Prepare to be truly amazed by the views! We sail into a huge inland sea, almost a lake, with the topography rather reminiscent of Switzerland. Reflections of the surrounding mountains dance on the water whilst sleepy, timeless fishing villages hug the shoreline.
At lunchtime we anchor and visit Kotor, nestling below a mountainside in probably Montenegro’s most dramatic setting. Walled, with a labyrinth of cobbled streets surrounding its Orthodox Cathedral that radiate to quiet intimate squares, it is a delight to explore.
Its bustling market really is from yesteryear, selling homemade cheese, cured hams, honey and Mediterranean vegetables of every colour, shape and size in a refreshingly chaotic manner! You can try some of the local wine too, which despite its lack of international exposure, is rather good – and exceptional value.
We weigh anchor late evening and continue our northward voyage.
*Ship is expected to anchor at this port and guests will be tendered ashore.
Included experience:
Visit to Kotor.
Dubrovnik*
As you wake this morning you will be treated to the delight of the Dalmatian coast which we will follow all the way to the Istria Peninsula. Enjoying lunch on board we gently round the headland when the unique city of Dubrovnik, Pearl of the ‘Adriatic’, makes its astonishing debut.
An independent city-state for much of its history, Dubrovnik has evolved differently to the rest of Croatia. The city threw off its Venetian masters in medieval times and founded a commercial empire trading with the eastern Mediterranean, France, Spain and later the Ottoman Empire.
As so often happened, the city began to reflect its resultant wealth and today this wonderfully baroque city proudly nestles behind its huge imposing ramparts in a situation of outstanding natural beauty. The main avenue, lined by unspoilt intimate cafés, is completely paved with marble, which dazzles in the sunlight and gives credence to its description as the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’.
Throughout the city you will find a wonderful array of monasteries, beautifully decorated churches and civic buildings dating from the 14th century, reflecting Dubrovnik’s outstanding artistic heritage.
We have an included guided walking tour seeing all this and more, after which you are free to explore at your leisure before re-joining the Royal Clipper for dinner. We set sail tonight heading north to the undeniably beautiful island of Hvar.
*Ship is expected to anchor at this port and guests will be tendered ashore.
Included experience:
Guided tour of Dubrovnik.
Hvar*
Part of the Roman Empire, Croatia was then ruled in medieval times by the Venetians. Subsequently, it became part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and finally Italian. Latterly it was incorporated into Yugoslavia before eventually becoming independent. Totally unspoilt, Croatia today is how the Mediterranean was perhaps a generation ago: the towns still very traditional with little unsightly development spoiling the wonderful natural coastline.
A stunning island in the Dalmatian archipelago, Hvar is one of the most enchanting spots in the entire Mediterranean. We disembark into this delightful and bewitching little town where wandering is a joy! Compact and cosy, even the streets have no names.
As we enjoy another assault on the taste buds during dinner we continue our northward journey sailing along one of the most beautiful stretches of water in the world - the amazing Dalmatian coast. This archipelago has to be seen to be believed: a series of islands, some small, some large, some with tiny medieval fishing villages clinging to the seashore, all covered by a green carpet of lush Mediterranean forest that exudes its typical pine scent in the warm night air.
This evening nothing will beat the exhilaration of a ‘sundowner’ on deck, as the sun sets in the west and the stars twinkle above in the clear night sky.
*Ship is expected to anchor at this port and guests will be tendered ashore.
Included experience:
Visit to Hvar.
Rovinj*
Today as the morning unfurls we approach the dramatic Istrian peninsula. This is the final opportunity to relax on board so take a dip in the pool and take in the vistas of the impressive coastline, before a final lunch on board.
This afternoon we disembark at the pretty fishing port of Rovinj where a maze of Italianate waterside buildings perches above the crystal blue of the Adriatic. The most satisfying activity here is to simply lose oneself in the web of medieval alleyways and lanes spreading out from the waterfront. From the splendid baroque church enjoy the views across the 22 small islands that form a natural park, or stroll along the steps of Grisia Street lined with art galleries, before resting for a quiet drink in one of the charming harbourside cafés.
Watch the sun setting for the final time in a blaze of colour before enjoying your last dinner on board this spectacular ship, as the Royal Clipper sets sail on the final leg of our odyssey, towards Venice.
*Ship is expected to anchor at this port and guests will be tendered ashore.
Included experience:
Visit to Rovinj.
Venice
This morning we disembark at Venice and there is still plenty to enjoy: we have an included tour of the city before checking into our hotel, the four-star Plaza in Mestre, staying one night with breakfast.
Venice is quite unique in the truest sense of the word and this morning’s included tour will reveal the city’s most famous sights including the glorious Doge’s Palace, St. Mark’s with its magnificently decorated Basilica and grandiose square, the legendary Bridge of Sighs, the Rialto plus a host of other fascinating gems.
After this you will have some free time to explore as you wish, perhaps starting with a peaceful gondola ride on Venice’s backwaters, or a trip on the iconic vaporetto water bus along the Grand Canal which teems with vessels of all sorts, just as it has for centuries.
For art lovers, the Accademia houses a world-class collection of incredible masterpieces, whilst the markets near the Rialto are as traditional as you can get and the view from the Campanile bell tower is unrivalled possibly anywhere in the world.
Away from the bustle though, is another equally fascinating Venice - endless quiet corners waiting to be discovered, washing stretched high across narrow canals between picturesque yet crumbling buildings, curious little shops dotted here and there and locals putting the world to rights in tiny tucked-away bars.
Included experience:
Guided tour of Venice.
Return home
It's time to say goodbye and return home. Whilst the holiday may be over, reminiscences of the sights you have seen, experiences you have had and people you have met on this unique and special voyage of discovery will remain with you for a very long time to come.
What's Included
Holiday Highlights
Guided tours of Rome, home to the ancient world’s mightiest empire, the Vatican and romantic Venice, Sicily's Taormina, atmospheric Corfu and the Pearl of the Adriatic, Dubrovnik.
Visit to gorgeous Sorrento and guided tour of thought-provoking Pompeii – a city frozen in time.
See the stunning island of Capri and sail past the Aeolian Islands and Stromboli, the most consistently active volcano in Europe.
Visits to Kotor in Montenegro, and sail along the extraordinary Dalmatian coast with visits to the green island of Hvar and the coastal town of Rovinj.
Optional tour to the amazing remains of ancient Olympia, birthplace of the Olympic Games.
Our Price Includes
The price of this holiday is per person, based on two people sharing a twin room or cabin. The price includes:
Flights to Rome, returning from Venice
One night at the Hotel Crowne Plaza in Rome with breakfast
One night at the Plaza in Mestre with breakfast
Full breakfast, buffet lunch, afternoon tea and à la carte dinner daily whilst on Royal Clipper (lunch excluded on shore excursions)
Guided sightseeing tours of Venice, Dubrovnik, Corfu, Taormina, Pompeii and Rome
Visits to Rovinj, Hvar, Kotor, Capri and Sorrento
Attentive service from an English-speaking crew and knowledgeable local guides
All port taxes (worth £255)
Porterage of one item of luggage per person
All transfers
The services of a Riviera Travel tour manager
Please note that in the event of unsatisfactory weather conditions the captain reserves the right to alter or reschedule the itinerary. Availability of watersports is subject to weather conditions and local authority regulations.
Please note due to the size of the ship there is no lift between decks; therefore a reasonable degree of mobility is required to negotiate the stairs and overall design.
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Dates and Prices
Accommodation
4* Plaza Hotel - Venice, Mestre -
★★★★
About the hotel
The hotel offers an elegant breakfast room as well as the Soul Kitchen, the hotel’s evening restaurant. The 226 air-conditioned rooms are well furnished, and all have en-suite bathroom, hairdryer, flat-screen satellite TV, minibar (local charges apply), safe and free Wi-Fi.
Please note the use of air-conditioning in hotels in Italy is at the hotel’s discretion and is normally restricted to the summer months (mid-May to mid-September), depending on the temperature.
Location
The modern four-star Plaza Hotel is located in Venice Mestre just opposite Mestre train station which links the mainland with Venice. Trains depart frequently and central Venice is only a 10 minute journey each way.
4* Splendid Venice -
★★★★
About the hotel
The four-star Splendid Venice is a luxury hotel with a charming terrace which offers a lovely view of Venice’s rooftops. There is also a lobby bar and the hotel restaurant with its views over the courtyard and boasts a variety of Venetian classics. The 165 classic contemporary rooms all have en-suite bathroom, hairdryer, flat-screen satellite TV, minibar (local charges apply), safe and wireless internet.
Location
The hotel is located a short walk from St Mark's Square and the Rialto making it is the perfect base from which to explore Venice.
Hotel Cristoforo Colombo -
★★★★
The hotel provides a welcoming retreat after a day of adventure in Rome. With bus/metro tops close by, it's well connected - perfect for independent exploration. During down time, take advantage of the hotel's outdoor pool and gym, or relax in the lounge bar. Mere steps away is the Euroma 2 shopping centre offering a choice of shops and restaurants - great for grabbing souvenirs or dinner. Or, if you'd prefer, the hotel also features its own restaurant, Symposium.
At the end of a busy day of sightseeing, retreat to your modern, comfortable room, which is complete with double or twin beds, desk, satellite TV, air-conditioning, mini-bar, safe, telephone, toiletries and complimentary wi-fi.
Location description: Eur district, Rome
The hotel is located in the Eur district, also known as Colosseo Quadrato, close to the Basilica of Saint Peter and Saint Paul and the Palazzo della Civilta Italiana. It is approximately 20 minutes by public transport from the Colosseum and Imperial Forum in Rome city centre.
5* Hotel Bernini Bristol - Rome -
★★★★★
About the hotel
The Hotel Bernini Bristol is a wonderful historic five-star property and offers an opulent lobby, lounge and bar area, hung with stunning 18th century tapestries, providing ample seating after a hard day’s sightseeing. The hotel boasts a fantastic rooftop restaurant and American bar with panoramic terrace affording views over the spectacular rooftops to St. Peter’s. There is also a small fitness area with sauna, steam room & jacuzzi where you can relax and recharge your batteries. The 127 rooms are elegantly decorated and facilities include minibar (local charges apply), safe, air-conditioning, Wi-Fi and satellite TV.
Please note the use of air-conditioning in hotels in Italy is at the hotel’s discretion and is normally restricted to the summer months (mid-May to mid-September), depending on the temperature.
Location
The hotel is located on Piazza Barberini, right at the foot of the famous Via Veneto, home of the famous Café de Paris where you may spot a celebrity or two and right in the heart of the Eternal City.
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Other Information
Holiday code
R526
Holiday provided by Riviera Travel
BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE: This holiday is sold and operated by Riviera Travel (ABTA V4744, ATOL 3430). These ABTA and ATOL bonds mean that, when you book a Riviera Travel holiday, you can be 100% sure that your money is safe.