Introduction to Morocco & The Mediterranean

The varied shores of the Mediterranean & Morocco beckon on this 8 night cruise aboard the 4 Star MSC Poesia. Depart from Barcelona and visit Genoa, Lisbon, Casablanca & more.

Itinerary

Day 1: Barcelona, Spain: Depart 14.00

On arrival in Barcelona you will be transferred to the port to board MSC Poesia, your home for the next 8 nights. The ship departs into the Mediterranean in the evening.

Day 2: Genoa, Italy: Arrive 09.00 Depart 17.00

A beautiful port cradled between land and sea

Cradled between land and sea and with a working port, the Italian vacation destination of Genoa on the west coast of Italy displays its past through her many palaces and the surrounding ancient terraced hills.

Genoa has many different faces; at once a modern metropolis and a rigorous custodian of artistic heritage, as well as an industrious marketplace with centuries-old parks perfect for relaxation.

Genoa hides her riches in an historical centre that looks traditionally seaward yet at the same time exhibits a new beauty achieved by restoring the splendour of ages past.

Day 3: Day at sea:

Set sail across the Mediterranean today, as you leave Italy behind and chart a course to Malaga, your next port of call. You are sure to find numerous things to entertain you onboard, and the crew will do whatever they can to ensure you feel right at home.

Day 4: Malaga, Spain: Arrive 10.00 Depart 18.00

Fantastic beaches nestled between the mountains and the sea

Nestling between the mountains and the sea, Malaga, on Spain’s east coast, is known as the capital of the Costa del Sol.

This region has long been popular with holidaymakers who are drawn by the area’s fantastic beaches and made the Costa del Sol one of the most visited regions in Spain.

But this town has more to offer than just seaside and sunshine! Founded around 3000 years ago, Malaga went on to become an important part of the Roman Empire as a centre for both commerce and culture before being dominated by the Moors. Several ancient Moorish monuments remain in Malaga and the surrounding region.

Day 5: Lisbon, Portugal: Arrive 13.00 Depart 19.00

Fantastic views of the Atlantic Ocean and over 20 centuries of history

As you sail along the Tagus prior to docking you’ll drift past the gigantic Christ King (Cristo Rei) statue that was erected on behalf of the women of Lisbon who gave thanks for sparing their men-folk during World War Two. You dock beneath the awesome Vasco da Gama Bridge, one of the longest structures of its kind in Europe.

Once ashore you’ll find Libon’s atmosphere is more sunny and cheerful than its melancholy musical heritage of Fado folk songs would have you believe! Wander its elegant squares and distinctive districts such as Alfama and Baixa and enjoy the excellent local seafood washed down with a little Vinho Verde.

Day 6: At Sea:

Leave Lisbon and Portugal behind on this day at sea, as you cruise to your next port of call, Casablanca, Morocco. Take some time to relax on deck, enjoy a refreshing drink from the bar, and watch the world float by.

Day 7: Casablanca, Morocco: Arrive 07.00 Depart 19.00

Art Deco architecture fused with North African elements

Forever immortalized by the classic movie of the same name, Casablanca is Morocco’s modern metropolis.

Casablanca grew rapidly from a small settlement into a sprawling city of three million and even though it is not one of the famous imperial cities, Casablanca offers visitors a rare experience.

Everything is bigger here: the streets, the hotels, the office blocks and the slums. The people themselves say that; “Casablanca has no memory and no past, only a future.”

A rich heritage of Art Deco architecture fused with North African elements acts as a tangible reminder of the city’s French colonial past.

Day 8: At Sea:

Your final day onboard sees you cruising back into the Mediterranean, en route to your final destination, Barcelona. Have one more gourmet meal, catch a world class show in the onboard theatre, or pick up a last minute souvenir from the onboard shops.

Day 9: Barcelona, Spain: Arrive 09.00

Your cruise ends today with your arrival in Barcelona. disembarkation begins after breakfast, and you will have the day at leisure in Barcelona before your transfer to the airport and flight home to Dublin.

Price inclusions

• Direct flight from Dublin to Barcelona
• Airport transfer to the port
• 8 nights onboard MSC Poesia, based on 2 sharing an inside stateroom
• Meals onboard on a full board basis
• Entertainment onboard
• Return transfer from port to airport
• Flight from Barcelona to Dublin
• Taxes and charges of €108

Booking remarks

• Inclusive of taxes and service charges as indicated
• Non refundable or transferable booking deposit of €200 per person
• Full payment due on confirmation
• 2% surcharge if balance is paid by credit or charge card
• Optional Insurance €36 (conditions apply)
• Upgrade to oceanview stateroom from €100 pp
• Upgrade to balcony stateroom from €170 pp
• Single supplement from €370
• Drinks onboard not included.
• Gratuities onboard are not included
• Prices are correct at time of going to press, flight supplements may apply depending on availability of negotiated airfares.

Accommodation details

MSC Poesia:

MSC Poesia certainly lives up to her name. Like a poem she is a rhythmic blend of leading edge technology, elegant surroundings, exciting entertainment venues and tantalizing dining opportunities. Onboard, you’ll enjoy our commitment to perfection which ensures that all cruise guests will experience the superior service levels and facilities that make MSC Cruises unique.

Dates and Prices

Date	Price	Stateroom
01 Apr 2012	€999	Inside
01 Apr 2012	€1,099	Oceanview
01 Apr 2012	€1,169	Balcony
01 Apr 2012	€1,369	Single
09 Apr 2012	€999	Inside
09 Apr 2012	€1,099	Oceanview
09 Apr 2012	€1,169	Balcony
09 Apr 2012	€1,369	Single
17 Apr 2012	€999	Inside
17 Apr 2012	€1,099	Oceanview
17 Apr 2012	€1,169	Balcony
17 Apr 2012	€1,369	Single

Introduction to the French & Italian Riviera

Set sail aboard the 5 star Azamara journey on this cruise along the riviera. Depart from glamourous Monte Carlo and experience ports including Florence, Sorrento, Amalfi, Capri and more.

Itinerary

Day 1: Monte Carlo, Monaco:

On arrival in Nice you will be transferred to your hotel for the night. The rest of the day is at leisure.

Day 2: Monte Carlo, Monaco: Depart 05.00 (+1)

Transfer to the port to board the 5 Star Azamara Journey. The ship remains in port overnight, allowing you more time to enjoy the glamour of Monte Carlo, before departing into the Mediterranean early in the morning.

Day 3: St. Tropez, France: Arrive 10.00 Depart 00.00

St. Tropez conjures up images of sun-drenched beaches, tanned bodies, and jet setters enjoying martinis on the decks of luxury yachts. Indeed it is a glamorous playground for the wealthy, but anyone can spend an afternoon at a sidewalk café, watching the spectacle unfold. The south of France played a role in the history of modern painting, its clear light inspiring artists, so that even today many live and work here. For mesmerizing views, head up to the 16th century Citadel. Or stroll the old town, overflowing with restaurants, trendy boutiques, and galleries.

Day 4: Portofino, Italy: Arrive 10.00 Depart 00.00

Picture a tiny town of pastel houses lining the shore of a small harbor full of sleek yachts, crowned by a castle and backed by verdant hills dotted with villas. Throw in charming waterside restaurants specializing in seafood, and a national park with miles of hiking trails among chestnut and olive groves, where you can work off the pasta that in Italy is just the first course, between the antipasto and the main. Now you know why this quaint little fishing village became a playground of the rich and famous, and why you should consider joining them.

Day 5: Portovenere, Italy: Arrive 08.00 Depart 00.00

Porto Venere oozes romance. Pretty as a picture and set on the Gulf of Poets (Golfo dei Poeti), it is famed for its connection to the English romantic poets Lord Byron and Percy Shelley who spent much time soaking up its inspiration. The village harbor is full of small boats and its promenade lined with brightly painted houses. Narrow medieval lanes wind up the hillside to a castle looming protectively on high. Porto Venere is also a take off point for trips to the Cinque Terre, that rugged stretch of Italian Riviera coastline that features five quaint villages terracing down steep hillsides overlooking the sea.

Day 6: Livorno (Florence), Italy: Arrive 07.00 Depart 20.00

In addition to savoring authentic Tuscan cuisine while in Florence, you’ll also explore the very heart of the city with an in-depth walking tour to their most famous sites: the Accademia Museum (which houses Michelangelo’s statue, David, and many others), Cathedral Square, the Duomo and Santa Croce Cathedral.

Day 7: Sorrento, Italy: Arrive 16.00 Overnight stop

Found on Italy’s famed Amalfi Coast, the city of Sorrento is set atop some of the Mediterranean’s most breathtaking cliffs. Close to Pompeii and a short boat ride to the must-see Isle of Capri, this quaint city will no doubt leave you wanting to return.

Day 8: Sorrento, Italy: Overnight stop Depart 16.00

Your second day in Sorrento gives you plenty more time to enjoy the sights and sounds of the charming town, before your ship departs in the afternoon.

Day 8: Amalfi, Italy: Arrive 19.00 Overnight Stop

Located at the heart of the Amalfi coast, and famous for the liquer Limoncello is the town of Amalfi. You arrive in the evening, allowing you to explore the nightlife of the town.

Day 9: Amalfi, Italy: Overnight stop Depart 17.00

With a full day in Amalfi today you are free to explore the sights and sounds of the city and surrounding countryside, or to take an organised excursion further afield.

Day 10: Taormina, Sicily: Arrive 08.00 Depart 18.00

With endlessly winding medieval streets and secluded gardens hidden by stone walls, Taormina enchants visitors with its history and beauty. Old Taormina features archeological monuments and medieval homes like Palazzo Santo Stefano, along with magnificent views of the sea and the Greco-Roman amphitheatre, one of Sicily’s largest. Dine on sumptuous seafood in the many quaint restaurants and shop for native crafts in the city’s numerous shops.

Day 11: Capri, Italy: Arrive 09.00 Overnight stop

Just off the coast of Naples floats the Isle of Capri of song and legend, a popular getaway spot since the Emperor Tiberius built his holiday villas here a couple thousand years ago. The coastline is best discovered by boat, and is marked by secluded beaches and hidden caves, most famously the Blue Grotto with its intense azure waters. Anacapri’s old town makes for fascinating walks along secret pathways, with La Piazetta in the center, a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. Breathtaking panoramas can be viewed by taking the chairlift to the top of Mt. Solaro, for 360 views of Anacapri, the countryside, and the Bay of Naples.

Day 12: Capri, Italy: Overnight stop Depart 17.00

You have a choice of things to do today during your second full day in Capri, whether it is relaxing onboard, or doing some more exploring of the island.

Day 13: Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy: Arrive 05.00

Your cruise ends this morning with your arrival in Rome. Disembarkation begins after breakfast, when you will be transferred to the airport for your flight home to Dublin.

Price inclusions

• Flight from Dublin to Nice
• Transfer from the airport to the hotel
• 1 night in a centrally located hotel
• Transfer from the hotel to the port
• 11 Nights accommodation onboard the 5 Star Azamara Journey, based on 2 sharing an inside stateroom
• Meals onboard on a full board basis
• Entertainment onboard
• The services of a tour manager
• Flight Rome to Dublin
• Taxes and charges included

Booking remarks

• Inclusive of taxes and service charges as indicated
• Non refundable or transferable booking deposit of €200 per person
• Full payment due on confirmation
• 2% surcharge if balance is paid by credit or charge card
• Optional Insurance €36 (conditions apply)
• Upgrade to oceanview stateroom from €150 pp
• Single supplement on request
• Drinks onboard not included.
• Gratuities are included in the above price
• Prices are correct at time of going to press, flight supplements may apply depending on availability of negotiated airfares.

Accommodation details

Azamara Journey

Forgo the crowds and experience a voyage tailor-made for today’s discerning traveler aboard Journey. In addition to butler service in each suite, Journey affords her guests more verandas than most cruise ships, so you can watch the world melt away into the fiery sunset.

Journey also features two specialty restaurants, concierge amenities, our Spa and Wellness Center, a coffee café, a piano bar and a wine bar, live entertainment, daily enrichment programs (like wine and champagne tasting), and this is only her short list.

Dates and Prices

Date	Price	Stateroom
31 Aug 2012	€2,999	Inside
31 Aug 2012	€3,149	Oceanview

Introduction to Latvia, Lithuania & The Baltic

Join Balmoral on this tour of the Baltic. Set sail from Southampton and discover ports in Russia, Latvia, Lithuania, Sweden and Estonia.

Itinerary

Day 1: Southampton, England:

On arrival in Southampton you will be transferred to the port to board Balmoral. The ship departs for the Baltic in the evening.

Day 2: At Sea:

Your first day aboard Balmoral sees you sailing north towards the Baltic. Take some time to get settled in aboard Balmoral and explore your surroundings.

Day 3: Cruise, Kiel Canal:

The world’s busiest artificial waterway.

Running for almost 100 km right through Schleswig-Holstein – from Brunsbuttel to Kiel-Holtenau linking the North Sea with the Baltic. Today the Kiel Canal is the basis for the trade between the countries of the Baltic area and the rest of the world.

Day 4: Ronne, Denmark:

The capital of the island of Bornholm.

Rønne offers a historical charm with its cobblestoned streets and cross-timbered houses. Although large amounts of the town were destroyed during the war, it was wisely rebuilt during the post war years, and many buildings look older than they actually are. During the hotter months Rønne offers vast stretches of sand, both to the south and north of the town.

Day 5: Klaipeda, Lithuania:

Klaipeda is situated at the edge of the Baltic Sea and Curonian Lagoon.

It boasts picturesque half-timbered buildings similar to those found in Germany and Denmark and also has the remains of the Memelberg Castle, which was built in the 13th century, and the maritime museum in Fort Wilhelm, built at the end of the 19th century.

Day 6: Riga, Latvia:

Eight hundred years have shaped the city’s unique appearance and rich traditions.

Riga has been an important centre for trade, finance and culture for centuries and offers an experience of architecture over the centuries. From its medieval castles and churches, to the urban structure of later periods and the richness and quality of Art Noveau to the wooden architecture of the 19th century. This historic centre is on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Day 7: At Sea:

Continue your journey around the Baltic today as you leave Latvia behind for the shores of St. Petersburg. Relax onboard and enjoy your day at sea.

Day 8: St. Petersburg, Russia:

The jewel in the Baltic crown and Russia’s most European city, elegant St Petersburg was Tsar Peter the Great’s ‘Window on the West’.

Peter the Great’s “window on the West” is utterly captivating, with baroque palaces, wide elegant streets, ornate bridges and broad curving canals – the city is built on 40 islands at the mouth of the River Neva. The main street, Nevsky Prospekt, is 5km long and lined with cafés, bars and restaurants mixed in with upmarket hotels and sumptuous shops. On Neva embankment, the Winter Palace, with over a thousand rooms, is merely the most magnificent of six buildings that make up the Hermitage museum.

The Hermitage is only one of 125 museums and galleries, not to mention dozens of lavishly decorated churches, that make this one of those cities that visitors want to return to again and again. It is enchanting during the “White Nights” of midsummer, when a brief twilight blends into dawn, and street entertainment lasts throughout the long days and short, white nights.

Day 9: St. Petersburg, Russia:

Your second full day in St. Petersburg allows you more time to explore the delights of the city, or to take an organised tour.

Day 10: Tallinn, Estonia:

Tallinn is unquestionably one of Europe’s most magical capitals.

This ancient Hanseatic city is justifiably proud of its beautiful churches, solid limestone houses and well-preserved cobbled streets. The Toompea hill, with its medieval houses and alleyways, is the oldest part and at the foot of the hill substantial remains of the city wall can still be seen, surrounded by well-maintained parks. The medieval town hall is one of the best preserved in northern Europe, and the weathercock, Gamle Toomas, on top of the building symbolises Tallinn.

The ornate Alexander Nevskij Cathedral was built at the end of the 19th century when Estonia was part of Tsarist Russia. Kadriorg’s Castle was built by an earlier Tsar, Peter the Great, and now houses part of the Estonian Museum of Art. The “Peek into the Kitchen” tower has an exhibition of Tallinn’s military history.

Day 11: Stockholm, Sweden:

There are no less than 14 islands and 40 bridges in Sweden’s stately and spacious capital, a picturesque canvas of waterways, lakes, canals and trees.

The beautiful capital of Sweden owes much of its unique appeal to its setting on 14 islands at the beginning of an extensive archipelago stretching out into the Baltic. Bridges criss-cross the water, while parks, gardens and wide boulevards make the city a pleasure to explore. It was founded over 700 years ago, and it retains buildings from throughout history. Gamla Stan – the Old Town – is a delight of narrow streets, cobbled squares and medieval houses, and provides an intriguing contrast with cutting-edge modern architecture that the city has adopted elsewhere.

There’s a huge choice of museums, including the Vasa museum, with its 17th century warship, and the unique Skansen open air museum. The Royal Palace and the Drottningholm Palace – a modern royal residence – are also well worth seeing.

Day 12: Visby, Sweden:

The “city of roses and ruins”

Visby is a living museum of narrow cobbled streets and ruined churches slumbering behind 13th century city walls. Within its enclosed walls it has preserved much of its medieval atmosphere and received the designation of UNESCO World Heritage Site. Of its original 17 churches, only 10 survive as ruins and only one (St Mary’s) is still used for worship.

Day 13-14: At Sea:

Your final days aboard Balmoral see you sailing back through the Kiel Canal and onwards to Southampton. Enjoy a farewell drink, catch one more show in the theatre, or pick up some last minute souvenirs in the duty free shops.

Day 15: Southampton, England:

Your cruise ends today with your arrival in Southampton. Disembarkation begins after breakfast, when you will be transferred to the airport for your flight home to Dublin.

 

Price inclusions

• Direct flight from Dublin to Southampton
• Airport transfer to the port
• 14 nights accommodation aboard Balmoral based on 2 sharing an inside cabin
• Full Board basis
• All onboard entertainment
• Return transfer from port to airport
• Flight from Southampton to Dublin
• Taxes and charges of €108

Booking remarks

• Inclusive of taxes and service charges as indicated
• Non refundable or transferrable booking deposit of €200 per person
• Full payment due on confirmation
• 2% surcharge if balance is paid by credit or charge card
• Optional Insurance €26 (conditions apply)
• Outside cabin supplement from €200 pp
• Single Supplement from €750
• Drinks onboard not included.
• Gratuities are payable at your discretion
• Prices are correct at time of going to press, flight & fuel supplements may apply depending on availability of negotiated airfares.

Accommodation details

Balmoral

At 43,000 tonnes and carrying around 1,300 passengers, Balmoral is the largest and most recent ship in the Fred. Olsen fleet, and the first to bear the name of the Scottish home of the Royal Family. Balmoral offers a wide choice of facilities, yet is still small enough to let you feel entirely at ease.

The public rooms are designed on a Scottish theme, but overall the atmosphere is entirely British. The main restaurant, Ballindalloch, takes it’s name from the Speyside village and castle, while the two other formal restaurants are named after the rivers Avon and Spey. You can dine informally in the Palms Cafe, while the sea-pub “Morning Light” is the place for some of the evening entertainment, alongside the main shows and dancing in the Neptune and Lido lounges. If you prefer something quieter, why not enjoy magnificent views while enjoying a drink in the Observatory Lounge.

Among it’s other facilities Balmoral has swimming pools, jacuzzis and a gym where you can get fit while enjoying superb sea views. You don’t have to be too energetic – relax in one of the on deck jacuzzis, enjoy a spa treatment, or just top up your tan while reading a book from the well stocked library.

Dates and Prices

Date	Cabin	Price
28 Jun 2012	Inside	€2,179
28 Jun 2012	Outside	€2,519
28 Jun 2012	Single	€3,429

Introduction to The Atlantic Islands Cruise

The Canaries and Azores are your destination on this 14 night cruise aboard Black Watch. Sailing from Dover, you will visit ports in Lisbon, Lanzarote, Tenerife, The Azores and more.

Itinerary

Day 1: Dover, England:

On arrival in London you will be met by your driver and transferred to the port to board Black Watch. The ship departs in the evening.

Day 2 – 3: At Sea:

Your first days are spent cruising south, to Lisbon, your first port of call. Take some time to get acquainted with your surroundings and fellow guests, and explore Black Watch.

Day 4: Lisbon, Portugal:

Memories of a glorious past linger amid the grand avenues and elegant squares of this attractive capital.

Spread out over seven hills on the north of the River Tagus, Lisbon is a delightful mix of palaces, churches, art nouveau cafés, gardens, ancient castles and splendid bridges. These include the Ponte 25 de Abril – similar to the Golden Gate in San Francisco – and the Ponte Vasco da Gama, which includes over 11km of viaducts.

Lisbon has many fascinating museums, including the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, the National Museum of Contemporary Art, the National Coach Museum and the Carmo Archaeological Museum. It’s also a shopper’s paradise, with the Centro Commercial Colombo – the biggest shopping mall on the Iberian peninsula – and the elegant Avenidas Novas, full of upmarket shops. Alternatively, search for bargains alongside the locals in the flea market at Campo de Santa Clara.

Day 5: At Sea:

Leave Lisbon behind and set sail for Lanzarote, your next port of call today. Find somewhere to curl up with a refreshing drink and a good book, or get involved in the events happening on Black Watch.

Day 6: Arrecife, Lanzarote:

Arrecife is the gateway to the island of Lanzarote.

Arrecife is a bustling port, with the biggest fishing fleet in the Canaries. Back in the 16th and 17th centuries the city was regularly attacked by pirates: to defend against these raiders, the court of Spain built two splendid castles overlooking the harbour. Castillo San Gabriel is the older of the two, built in 1590. It now houses the island’s Ethnographic Museum, which tells the fascinating story of the original inhabitants of the island, the Gaunche.

The Castillo San Jose was built to provide employment and alleviate poverty on the island following volcanic eruptions in the 1730s: as a result it became known as the Fortress of Hunger. Today it is home to the Museum of International and Contemporary Art, with a small but impressive collection of modern paintings and sculpture. Appropriately, given the name, it also has an excellent restaurant in the basement where diners enjoy panoramic views over the harbour area.

Day 7: Santa Cruz, Tenerife:

The lively, cosmopolitan capital of the largest of the Canaries.

Easily reached are the elegant beach resort of Puerto de la Cruz, the lively leisure complex of Playa de las Americas, the banana and pineapple plantations of the beautiful Orotava Valley, and the stunning volcanic scenery and views of El Teide National Park, dominated by the 12,000ft snow-tipped peak of Spain’s highest mountain.

Day 8: Santa Cruz, La Palma:

Santa Cruz is undoubtedly one of the prettiest towns in the entire archipelago.

Conquered by the King of Castile in the 15th century, Santa Cruz de La Palma became an important trading post between Spain and the Americas. This wealthy past has left its legacy in palaces, colonial buildings and sumptuous merchants’ houses in the Old Quarter of the town. The Town Hall was built during the reign of Phillip II, whose image has pride of place on the façade, while the inside has fabulous coffered ceilings.

There are also magnificent religious buildings, including the Renaissance-style Church of El Salvador, with a tower of volcanic stone, and the Church of Santo Domingo, which houses a superb collection of Flemish paintings. Around the town are cafés and bars offering local dishes, many made with tiny potatoes, cooked in their skins and served with different sauces.

Day 9: At Sea:

Set a course from the Canaries to the Azores today, as you cruise to your next port of call, Praia da Vittoria. Relax aboard Black Watch and watch the world float by.

Day 10: Praia da Vitoria, Azores:

Praia da Vitoria is home to massive sandy beaches, and a lively town centre, located not far from the port. You are sure to find something of interest here, whether you are a history buff or a sun worshipper.

Day 11: Ponta Delgada, Azores:

On São Miguel part of the eastern group of islands of the Azores, you will discover Ponta Delgada.

The main town on the island of San Miguel, Ponta Delgada has a very cosmopolitan atmosphere, combining modern facilities in a traditional environment. San Miguel itself is lovely, with lakes, mountains and lush valleys, together with fine sandy beaches surrounded by the deep blue ocean. Ponta Delgada dates back over 500 years and it has many fine buildings – a reminder that this was once an important staging post between Europe and the Americas. Intermingled are parks, narrow cobbled streets and squares, a modern marina, restaurants and waterside cafés.

Portas da Cidade, the City Gates, once stood in front of the harbour and are now in Gonçalo Velho Cabral Square, dedicated to the Portuguese navigator who discovered the Azores. There is an interesting church here – Igreja Matriz – with a splendid clock tower, one of a number in the town.

Day 12 – 14: At Sea:

Your final days onboard are spent cruising away from the Azores and back to Dover. The crew will keep you entertained while at sea, with games and activities organised during the day.

Day 15: Dover, England:

Your cruise ends this morning with your arrival in Dover. Disembarkation begins after breakfast, when you will be met by your driver for your transfer to the airport and flight home to Dublin.

Price inclusions

• Direct flight from Dublin to London
• Airport transfer to the port
• 14 nights accommodation onboard based on 2 sharing an inside cabin
• Full Board basis
• All onboard entertainment
• Return transfer from port to airport
• Flight from London to Dublin
• Taxes and charges of €108

Booking remarks

• Inclusive of taxes and service charges as indicated
• Non refundable or transferrable booking deposit of €200 per person
• Full payment due on confirmation
• 2% surcharge if balance is paid by credit or charge card
• Optional Insurance €36 (conditions apply)
• Outside Cabin Supplement from €260
• Single Supplement (inside) from €950
• Drinks onboard not included.
• Gratuities are payable at your discretion
• Prices are correct at time of going to press, flight or fuel supplements may apply depending on availability of negotiated airfares.

Accommodation details

Black Watch

Relax and experience a cruise aboard the resplendent Black Watch

Emerging refreshed and improved from a two week dry dock in December 2009, this is the third Fred. Olsen ship of this name. Sister ship to Boudicca, Black Watch is sleek and elegant, with the intimacy and sophistication for which all cruise ships used to be known. Black Watch is a perfect size in which to enjoy the stylish service for which Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines is famed.

The ship’s main restaurant, Glentanar, with the smaller Orchid Room leading off it, are used for formal dining, with evening meals served in two sittings, as on all of the company’s ships. The new Braemar Garden Cafe, with courtyard area, offers informal dining and themed evenings. There’s a new bar in the Braemar Room, which is on the lounge deck, as is the newly refurbished Piper’s Bar, which leads into the Neptune Lounge, the main show lounge. At the stern on the marquee deck, the Marquee Bar adjoins the pool and jacuzzis, while on the same deck, the Observatory provides a relaxing place for a pre dinner drink with expansive views out to sea.

Dates and Prices

Date	Cabin	Price
08 Nov 2012	Inside	€1,649
08 Nov 2012	Outside	€1,909
08 Nov 2012	Single	€2,599

Code:W1217

Introduction to Lisbon & The Spanish Coast

Join Black Watch on a leisurely cruise around the Iberian coast. After departing from Southampton, you will have the perfect chance to discover some of the most captivating cities and ports in Iberia.

Itinerary

Day 1: Sauthampton, England:

On arrival in Southampton you will be met by your driver and transferred to the port to meet Black Watch, your home for the next two weeks. The ship departs for the Spanish coast in the evening.

Day 2 – 4: At Sea:

Your first days onboard are spent cruising south, around the coast and on to your first port of call, Gibraltar. Take some time to settle in and get used to the relaxed atmosphere on Black Watch.

Day 5: Gibraltar:

Dominated by ‘the Rock’, a towering 1,396 ft sentinel that guards the Straits.

Resolutely British for nearly 300 years, its unique setting unites the oddly familiar – from the helmeted policemen to Marks & Spencer – with an extrovert Mediterranean mood. Test the shops and pubs in Main Street and Irish Town, take a cable-car to enjoy the grandstand views to nearby Africa, and of course make a call on those Barbary apes!

Day 5: Ceuta, Spain:

A tiny Spanish city-enclave of just 19 square kilometres.

An autonomous Spanish enclave in North Africa, Ceuta is dominated by Monte Hacho and its castle, offering panoramic views of the city and the coast. Across the sea it’s possible to see Gibraltar in the distance. Below Monte Hacho are the remains of Ceuta’s old city walls, with a small canal running between them. The Ermitage of San Antonio was rebuilt in the 1960s on a site dating from the 15th century.

The city is a meeting place: of Africa and Europe, the Mediterranean and the Atlantic, Christianity and Islam – and these influences can be seen in everything from the food to the architecture. Along with monuments, museums, churches, and mosques, it’s also possible to find interesting little shops selling local products and to enjoy every kind of food from couscous to paella.

Day 6: At Sea:

Enter the waters of the Mediterranean today, as you cruise from Cueta, to your next port of call, Barcelona. There is sure to be something to entertain you onboard Black Watch, with games and activities organised throughout the day.

Day 7: Barcelona, Spain:

One of the Western Mediterranean’s most colourful metropolises.

Spain’s cosmopolitan second city overflows with interest, its mood infused with a vibrant Catalan spirit and heritage. You’ll catch the pulse of Barcelona when you stroll the mosaic-paved Ramblas, the city’s social hub, with open-air cafes, street entertainers and flower displays, the surrealistic architecture of Antonio Gaudi, and some outstanding museums and parks.

Day 8: Toulon, France:

On the Provence coast of the Mediterranean lies historic Toulon.

With a beautiful natural harbour and surrounding hills topped by forts, Toulon has long been one of France’s main maritime centres. In the old town, close to the harbour, the Romanesque Cathédrale Sainte-Marie-Majeure dates from the 11th and 12th centuries. In front of the town hall and the naval museum, the columns are carved figures of men, known as atlantes or caryatids – it is a style borrowed from Ancient Greece. The naval museum itself is interesting, with models of ships, displays about galley slaves and pirates and equipment ranging from wheels to figureheads. The Toulon Museum has collections of art from the past 500 years.

On Cours Lafayette in the Old Town there is a fabulous open-air market selling fresh fruit, vegetables and charcuterie. It’s open every morning apart from Monday and it’s worth visiting just to savour the smell of fresh herbs and lavender that hangs in the air.

Day 9: Palma, Mallorca:

Palma is the cosmopolitan capital of Mallorca, the most popular of the Balearic Islands (if not the entire Mediterranean)

Palma has a host of bars, restaurants and stylish shops, a palm-shaded seafront promenade, attractive Old Town, imposing Gothic Cathedral and 14th century Bellver Castle. Beyond lies some of Majorca’s dramatic mountain-and-coast scenery.

Day 10: Cartagena, Spain:

Lying on the coast of Murcia, Cartagena is still Spain’s major commercial port and naval base.

Cartagena was originally built on five small hills: in Roman times, they surrounded a bay which has now dried up. The old town was carefully planned within city walls and includes a natural harbour that is watched over by the medieval Castillio de la Concepcion, from which there are superb views. Cartagena has been an important port for 2,000 years and it still has a substantial naval shipyard.

Although many of the buildings from Roman Cartagena have disappeared, there are some important sites, including the amphitheatre that’s under the bullring built in 1854. A Roman theatre, dating from around 100BC, was found in 1987 during excavations near the ruins of the 13th century Cathedral of Santa Maria, which was destroyed during the Spanish Civil War. For a quirky treat, see the Museum of Carriages and Motorcycles, which has one of the biggest collections of motorbikes in Spain.

Day 11: At Sea:

This day at sea gives you time to enjoy the delightful facilities on Black Watch, before you arrive in your next port of call, Lisbon.

Day 12: Lisbon, Portugal:

Memories of a glorious past linger amid the grand avenues and elegant squares of this attractive capital.

Spread out over seven hills on the north of the River Tagus, Lisbon is a delightful mix of palaces, churches, art nouveau cafés, gardens, ancient castles and splendid bridges. These include the Ponte 25 de Abril – similar to the Golden Gate in San Francisco – and the Ponte Vasco da Gama, which includes over 11km of viaducts.

Lisbon has many fascinating museums, including the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, the National Museum of Contemporary Art, the National Coach Museum and the Carmo Archaeological Museum. It’s also a shopper’s paradise, with the Centro Commercial Colombo – the biggest shopping mall on the Iberian peninsula – and the elegant Avenidas Novas, full of upmarket shops. Alternatively, search for bargains alongside the locals in the flea market at Campo de Santa Clara.

Day 13 – 14: At Sea:

Your final days are spent leisurely cruising north, away from Iberia to Southampton. Relax after your time in Iberia, catch one last show in the theatre, or pick up some last minute souvenirs from the duty free shops.

Day 15: Southampton, England:

Your cruise ends this morning with your arrival in Southampton. Disembarkation begins after breakfast, when you will be met by your driver for the transfer to the airport and flight home to Dublin.

Price inclusions

• Direct flight from Dublin to Southampton
• Airport transfer to the port
• 14 nights accommodation onboard based on 2 sharing an inside cabin
• Full Board basis
• All onboard entertainment
• Return transfer from port to airport
• Flight from Southampton to Dublin
• Taxes and charges of €108

Booking remarks

• Inclusive of taxes and service charges as indicated
• Non refundable or transferrable booking deposit of €200 per person
• Full payment due on confirmation
• 2% surcharge if balance is paid by credit or charge card
• Optional Insurance €36 (conditions apply)
• Outside Cabin Supplement from €310
• Single Supplement (inside) from €1,200
• Drinks onboard not included.
• Gratuities are payable at your discretion
• Prices are correct at time of going to press, flight or fuel supplements may apply depending on availability of negotiated airfares.

Accommodation details

Black Watch

Relax and experience a cruise aboard the resplendent Black Watch

Emerging refreshed and improved from a two week dry dock in December 2009, this is the third Fred. Olsen ship of this name. Sister ship to Boudicca, Black Watch is sleek and elegant, with the intimacy and sophistication for which all cruise ships used to be known. Black Watch is a perfect size in which to enjoy the stylish service for which Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines is famed.

The ship’s main restaurant, Glentanar, with the smaller Orchid Room leading off it, are used for formal dining, with evening meals served in two sittings, as on all of the company’s ships. The new Braemar Garden Cafe, with courtyard area, offers informal dining and themed evenings. There’s a new bar in the Braemar Room, which is on the lounge deck, as is the newly refurbished Piper’s Bar, which leads into the Neptune Lounge, the main show lounge. At the stern on the marquee deck, the Marquee Bar adjoins the pool and jacuzzis, while on the same deck, the Observatory provides a relaxing place for a pre dinner drink with expansive views out to sea.

Dates and Prices

Date	Cabin	Price
26 Apr 2012	Inside	€1,989
26 Apr 2012	Outside	€2,299
26 Apr 2012	Single	€3,189

Code:W1202