Voyages to Antiquity crafts a remarkable onboard lecture program featuring experts in all facets of Ancient Civilizations – including art, history, archaeology, geology, architecture, wine and cuisine– to bring to life the glory of the Mediterranean as it was thousands of years ago.
Expert enthusiasts will lead guests through the elegance of ancient Greek architecture to the monumental splendor of Roman cities and the wonders of Egypt’s Pyramids. Then, while back onboard, passengers will enjoy the wine and cuisine of the local culture they have just explored.
Voyages to Antiquity guests further benefit by the amount of access they have to the cadre of experts on each cruise. Not merely lecturers, the experts will be participating in shoreside excursions, hosting intimate gatherings onboard and be readily available to discuss the fascinating sites of the day over coffee or cocktails.
“Voyages to Antiquity was born of an interest to provide a uniquely in depth understanding of the ancient civilization and cultures of the Mediterranean,” said Mitchell J. Schlesinger, director of sales and marketing. “We have assembled an extraordinary collection of experts who will not just provide interactive onboard lectures, but mingle with guests in a variety of informal settings both on and off the ship to provide an unparalleled enrichment experience.”
As an example, The Light of Greece itinerary, that explores 15 different Greek Islands and four Turkish cities features a variety of experts discussing topics that range from Classical Greek Architecture to poetry and philosophy as well as art and culture and even local wine and food. The Pompeii Is Something So Wonderful itinerary – which takes guests on an in-depth voyage of the Amalfi Coast, Sicily and Croatia – features experts in Classical Literature, Sicilian cuisine and wine, art, architecture and archaeology as well as a former British Ambassador to Italy. More information and bios for the cadre of onboard lecturers can be found at http://us.voyagestoantiquity.com/cruise-expert-speakers-mediterranean-us.html
Inspired by The Middle Sea, authoredby Lord John Julius Norwich, Voyages to Antiquity was created to offer sophisticated travelers an unparalleled destination immersion and educational experience combining the very best in cultural travel in a tranquil, informal atmosphere. The inaugural season, beginning May 2010, features 9 itineraries (16 departures) focused entirely on the Mediterranean, Adriatic and Aegean Seas as well as North Africa and the Red Sea.
The Aegean Odyssey is currently under undergoing extensive refurbishment to reduce capacity from 570 to 380 guests, featuring 82 brand new (200-500 sq. foot) staterooms and suites, of which 42 have balconies. Additionally, the ship features enhancements to all public rooms, particularly the Spa and Terrace dining venues and redecorations ship wide. Voyages to Antiquity offers boutique-style cruising with a “smart casual” environment free of nightclubs, casinos or formal nights. The experience is enhanced by friendly Filipino service and open seating dining in three venues featuring continental cuisine augmented by regional foods and wines obtained during each voyage.
