Arts Club Tour 2019 Cruising Rome to Athens - Arts Club Theatre Company

Arts Club
                                     Tour
                                     2019
                      Cruising Rome to Athens

In 2019 what better choice would there be than to sail
to the Greek Islands and the Holy Land with the Arts
Club on Crystal’s newly refurbished Crystal Serenity
for 13 days where you will experience incomparable,
renowned service.
On board Crystal Serenity the hallmarks of service,
space and quality have earned Crystal Cruises the
distinction as the world’s most awarded luxury cruise line.
A welcoming and friendly smile sets the stage for a journey of uncommon discovery where the
industry’s finest professionals create experiences of a lifetime all day and every day.
We will journey from Rome to Athens with stops in unique and exciting ports: Sorrento, Crete, Haifa
(for Nazareth), Ashdod (for Bethlehem and Jerusalem), Cyprus, Rhodes, Santorini and Patmos, ending
with a full day in Athens.

Day 1 – 10 October, 2019: Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy

This afternoon join the Crystal Serenity in Civitavecchia, which was founded by Emperor Trajan in
the 2nd century. Today this port is noted for its fine seafood and attractive monuments and is located
90 minutes away from Rome. Steeped in 2,500 years of history, Rome was for many centuries the
center of Western civilization being the focal point of the Roman Empire and of Christendom.
Landmarks such as the Colosseum, Forum, Pantheon, Vatican, Sistine Chapel and Spanish Steps are
reminders of the legacy of Rome’s rich past. (Dinner this evening)

Day 2 – 11 October, 2019: Sorrento, Italy

As your ship approaches the Sorrento Peninsula, delight in craggy cliffs draped with flowing pink
blossoms. Renowned for its serene way of life, this romantic port exudes a special magic. Its
dramatic bluffs and surrounding flowered hills bid travelers welcome to a town overflowing with
charm and character. It is easy to relax in this languid southern Italian atmosphere. The sensational
Amalfi Coast, the haunting ruins at Pompeii and Capri with its Blue Lagoon are among the region's
highlights. (B, L, D)

Day 3 – 12 October, 2019: Cruising the Ionian Sea

Your first full day at sea will give you a chance to relax even more and perhaps give you the chance to
explore the ship if you have yet to do so. Explore the Crystal Serenity’s cafes and dining alternatives
and lounges, whether in a little intimate spot or a pulsing dance club. Perhaps enjoy some time in the
action packed Crystal Casino or catch one of the ship’s new production shows. (B, L, D)

Day 4 – 13 October, 2019: Chania, Crete, Greece

Throughout its long history, the Cretan city of Chania has been ruled and influenced by the Greeks,
Venetians and the Turks. Current day Chania is home to the Municipal Agora, a marketplace built in
1913 on the site of the old southern Venetian walls, and features a waterfront that would look right at
home on the Venetian Lagoon. A maze of narrow alleyways opening onto squares edged by
Byzantine and neo-classical buildings are quintessentially Greek: quaint, friendly and gracefully aged.
In classic Greek style, the Venetian structures that lack rooftops due to the bombings of World War II
have beautifully evolved into open-air shops and restaurants, inviting locals to stop to appreciate the
mild Mediterranean weather and warm companionship of friends. (B, L, D)

Day 5 – 14 October, 2019: Cruising the Mediterranean Sea

Your second full day at sea allows you to indulge yourself in doing nothing or doing everything.
Pamper yourself at the Feng Shui inspired spa, work out at in the fitness center, practice your golf
swing on deck, participate in mat Pilates and yoga or walk for kilometres around the 360o Promenade
Deck overlooking the pool. Perhaps take some classes in the digital arts or learn more about art,
history and worldly destinations with engaging celebrity entertainers and speakers. Perhaps watch
recently released movies in the theatre or shop in the luxury boutiques. Then, again, you might want
just to lounge around the pool with a cool drink in your hand . . . (B, L, D)

Day 6 – 15 October, 2019: Haifa, Israel

Haifa is Hebrew for "beautiful coast" and its shining coastline as Israel's largest Mediterranean port
lives up to that name. Even more impressive, though, are the slopes of Mt. Carmel on which much of
the city lies. Travel through the gorgeous villas and resort hotels to the summit for spectacular views of
the city's many gardens, and striking Haifa Bay. Haifa is one of the gateways to many ancient sites,
including Nazareth, the Sea of Galilee and Capernaum. (B, L, D)

Day 7 – 16 October, 2019: Ashdod, Israel

Built on golden dunes, Ashdod is southern Israel's only Mediterranean harbor. Yet this new city has
fabulously ancient roots: Ashdod is mentioned in the Old Testament and archaeologists have found
ruins almost 4,000 years old. This is the doorway to the historic treasures of Jerusalem, Bethlehem
and the worldly pleasures of Tel Aviv. Because so much history and so many sites are found near
here, Crystal Serenity will moor here for two days. (B, L, D)

Day 8 – 17 October, 2019: Ashdod Israel

On this second day in Ashdod you will have the chance to experience what you did not see yesterday.
Perhaps today is the day for Masada, Tel Aviv or the city of Jaffa, which archaeologists believe has
been inhabited since 7,500 BCE. Then again, you might want to spend more time back in Jerusalem.
(B, L, D)

Day 9 – 18 October, 2019: Paphos, Cyprus

Steeped in mythological history, Paphos offers an abundance of architectural wonders. In fact, the
entire city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some of the treasures not to be missed are the
spectacular mosaics unearthed in the House of Dionysus, charming Omodos Village and the solid rock
catacombs of the Tombs of the Kings. Paphos is perhaps best known as the birthplace of Aphrodite,
the Greek goddess of love. Her spirit lives on in the ancient ruins and temples, as well as the modern
harbor and sun-splashed beaches where love is always in the air. The palm-lined waterfront
promenade is most inviting for a relaxing meander. (B, L, D)

Day 10 – 19 October, 2019: Lindos, Rhodes, Greece

Best known of the Dodecanese islands, Rhodes is rich with natural beauty, architectural variety and
colorful history. The city of Rhodes is architecturally one of the most varied in Europe with
Hellenistic, Byzantine, Medieval and Turkish architectural styles freely intermingling. Sunshine and
dry air combine to cast such a magnificent light over the island that the ancients dedicated Rhodes to
Apollo, the God of Light. (B, L, D)

Day 11 – 20 October, 2019: Thira, Santorini, Greece

Of all the Cyclades Islands, Santorini is often considered the most dramatic. In 1500 BCE the island
volcano erupted with such force that the center of the island literally exploded leaving the haunting
submerged crater into which Crystal Serenity sails. The island's small villages were preserved in the
ashes and recent excavations have uncovered a fascinating view of everyday life from 3,500 years ago.
Santorini's dark landscape is offset by its lovely buildings that glimmer in the sunlight. The rich volcanic
soil is ideal for grapes which the locals grow in a unique manner to the island; the wine is cherished for
its special volcanic taste. Thira is laid out along the edge of a cliff that partially forms the rim of the now
extinct caldera. A picturesque site, it exudes charm and an atmosphere of leisure that can be attributed to
the easy going Greek lifestyle. (B, L, D)

Day 12 – 21 October, 2019: Patmos, Greece

Considered the "Jerusalem of the Aegean," the Greek isle of Patmos has a rich Christian heritage. The
Monastery of Saint John was founded in 1088 and is a UNESCO World Heritage site as is the Cave of
the Apocalypse, the grotto where John the Apostle received the visions he recorded in the Book of
Revelation. The Patmian School, a noted Greek seminary, is also located on the island. Deep
Christian roots make Patmos a destination for pilgrims, while the island's white sand beaches, secluded
coves and beautiful marina make it a popular destination for worshippers of the sun. (B, L, D)

Day 13 – 22 October, 2019: Piraeus (Athens), Greece

Piraeus is Greece's largest port and has been a gateway to the Mediterranean since 482 BC. It lies on
the innermost point of the Saronic Gulf and is a short drive from Athens, the cradle of Western
democracy and culture. Throughout the ages, Athens' lofty Acropolis has been a source of inspiration.
The ancient ruins scattered throughout this legendary city are reminders of Greece's great cultural
heritage. (B, L, D)

Day 14 – 23 October, 2019: Piraeus (Athens), Greece – Disembark

This morning your cruise comes to a conclusion after breakfast. (B)

Deluxe Stateroom
                                                           with Verandah

          Deluxe
      Ocean View

            Crystal’s all-inclusive value provides:
                    Stateroom Services & Amenities
In-stateroom satellite TV and movie/DVD   Kimonos, Frette bathrobes, 100% Egyptian
rentals                                   cotton linens and a menu of pillow options
Twice daily housekeeping with nightly     Complimentary soft drinks and bottled
turndown service                          water as well as complimentary select beer,
Self-service launderettes                 wine and spirits upon request

Fine Dining
Up to eight evening dining venue                The Bistro, a European-style sidewalk café
Complimentary select fine wines,                with extended hours into the late evening
champagne and premium spirits throughout        All non-alcoholic beverages including
the ship                                        bottled water, specialty coffee drinks, soft
Complimentary evening of specialty              drinks, fresh juices and Afternoon Tea
restaurant dining in Prego and at least once    service
in Nobu Matsuhisa's Umi Uma (additional         Acclaimed Crystal Wine & Food Festival®
reservations or visits available for a modest   cruises featuring famous chefs and wine
fee)                                            authorities on select voyages
Open-bar service throughout the ship            Early embarkation luncheon, welcome
Gratuities for housekeeping, bar and dining     champagne and 24 hour room service
staff throughout the ship                       Innovative Modern Cuisine as well as
Afternoon Tea in elegant Palm Court             global inspired specialty menus

                         Enrichment & Entertainment
Computer University@Sea® classes with           Breakout new productions shows including
software instruction                            Rocket Man!, a tribute to Elton John, the
Technology Concierge "how to" tips on           high-energy rhythmic 6/8 Café, plus piano
latest high-tech gadgets and apps               bars and chic nightclubs
Digital USC School of Cinematic Arts            Magic Castle® at Sea offering intimate up-
Digital Filmmaking classes                      close performances and educational classes
Experiences of Discovery® theme cruises         Recent-release films in spacious surround-
with focused programming on music, film         sound Hollywood Theatre Dance lessons
& theatre, wellness, golf and more              Ambassador Hosts, cultured and well-
Crystal Visions® Enrichment Series lecture      traveled gentlemen, are available on every
series featuring renowned speakers, authors,    cruise to socialize and dance the night away
celebrities and destination experts             Art classes with Odyssey Art At Sea
Interactive Ocean Views™ and Local              Dedicated Junior Cruiser facilities and
Insights on select voyages where native         programs
experts come on board to share their unique,    Concierge services for personal
niche knowledge about the destination's art,    arrangements ashore
politics, archaeology or history

                                            Fitness
Gym with state-of-the art fitness equipment     Golf lessons with PGA instructors
Well-appointed separate men's and women's       Exclusive 360° (wraparound) teak
steam, saunas and whirlpools in the only        Promenade Deck for uninterrupted walks,
Feng Shui inspired spa at sea                   jogs and sweeping ocean views
Fitness classes including yoga, mat Pilates,    Walk-on-Water® weighted vests and
"Tour de Spin" cycling, cutting-edge            Nordic Pole walking equipment
Kinesis™ systems and Tai Chi courses            Paddle tennis

Deluxe Stateroom with Verandah Fares:
Twin: from $8,145* USD (based on double occupancy)
Single: from $15,705* USD (based on single occupancy)

             Deluxe Ocean View Fares:
Twin: from $6,170* USD (based on double occupancy)
Single: from $11,755* USD (based on single occupancy)

               * Fare includes port charges and taxes.

             Cancellation insurance
                             and
                 medical insurance
            is strongly recommended.

       To confirm your place on this trip
            call Geoff at 604.685.6756
 or email at geoff.clydesdale@visiontravel.ca

                Consumer Protection BC License
                          #70485