Smithsonian Journeys Announces Six New Luxury Cruises to the Mediterranean
Smithsonian Journeys, known for their luxury cruises aboard small ships, announces six new cruises to the Mediterranean for 2011. Each of these theme cruises feature on-board experts and small ships such as the all-suite Corinthian II, which accommodates just 114 passengers. Planned for the discerning traveler, these cruises provide the ultimate in a luxury experience but with an informal ambiance. Specialized itineraries, including music cruises with world-renowned musicians and a family cruise with special children’s activities are featured at www.SmithsonianJourneys.org/Cruises, along with engaging photo slide shows, profiles of top experts who accompany each cruise and prices.
Smithsonian guests will cruise the Mediterranean aboard the all-suite private yacht Corinthian II, a small ship that carries no more than 114 passengers and provides top amenities, gracious service, and fine dining. Custom-designed itineraries provide a fascinating perspective into the destinations and behind-the-scenes access to many sites, as well as exclusive activities, top experts and a pleasant, leisurely pace with time at sea for relaxation.
Two new luxury cruises to the Mediterranean feature world-renowned musicians such as flautist Sir James Galway and pianist Leon Fleisher. Mediterranean Music Cruise (May 3-16, 2011) will feature the incomparable music of Galway and other artists who perform private recitals. As the ship plies the sea, from Seville, Spain, to Venice, Italy, Smithsonian travelers will explore important World Heritage sites in Seville, Barcelona, Carthage and Dubrovnik in the company of a top historian, and stop at palaces and historic theaters to enjoy exclusive recitals by flautist Galway and other top musicians.
Smithsonian travelers can also cruise from Istanbul to Seville on Opus Mediterraneo (Aug. 15-30, 2011), which brings the allure of music and history together as legendary pianist Leon Fleisher performs special recitals with a stellar group of musicians, while top expert, Pulitzer Prize-winning author Jared Diamond offers exclusive insight on the itinerary. Both of these unique luxury cruises www.SmithsonianJourneys.org/Music take place aboard the small ship Corinthian II.
During The Venetian Empire and the Medieval World (April 22-May 4, 2011) Smithsonian travelers will cruise from Cyprus to Israel, Syria, Turkey, Greece and Croatia before arriving in Venice. Participants gain a better understanding of Venice as an ancient Mediterranean superpower from on-board experts prior to visiting such World Heritage sites as Palmyra, Corfu, Kotor and Dubrovnik. History lovers will thoroughly enjoy Smithsonian’s Journey of Odysseus cruise (June 18-29, 2011). This theme cruise follows the route of Homer’s hero in the Mediterranean, from Athens to Troy, the Greek Islands and various ports in Italy, while an on-board expert on The Odyssey provides insight. Both of these luxury cruises take place aboard the all-suite Corinthian II, www.SmithsonianJourneys.org/Cruises.
Families interested in an exciting, fun summer vacation will be interested in Voyage to the Lands of Gods and Heroes (July 26-Aug. 6, 2011) aboard Corinthian II. During this special family cruise to the Mediterranean www.SmithsonianJourneys.org/GodsHeroes, adults and children will explore Italy, Greece and Turkey. While the entire family will enjoy visits to some of the most iconic ancient sites and idyllic Greek Islands, experienced youth counselors will also lead specialized activities for children.
Some Smithsonian travelers may simply want a more leisurely luxury cruise to the Mediterranean. The Hidden Islands of Greece (July 1-11, 2011) will feature quiet idyllic islands and villages as well as important World Heritage sites of the Aegean, including the Nea Moni Monastery on Chios and the archaeological site at Vergina. This cruise takes place aboard the all-suite small ship Callisto, accommodating just 34 guests.
About Smithsonian Journeys
Smithsonian Journeys is the Smithsonian Institution’s travel program, with more than 40 years dedicated to life-enriching experiences worldwide. The Smithsonian is known for “Inspiring Generations through Knowledge and Discovery,” which is central to Smithsonian Journeys and its more than 150 expert-led international and domestic tours featuring exclusive access and unforgettable experiences. For more information, call toll-free 1 (877) 338-8687 or visit www.SmithsonianJourneys.org.
About Smithsonian Institution
Founded in 1846, the Smithsonian is the world’s largest museum and research complex consisting of 19 museums and galleries, the National Zoological Park and nine research facilities. There are 6,000 Smithsonian employees, including approximately 500 scientists, and more than 6,500 volunteers. There were approximately 30 million visits from around the world at the Smithsonian in 2009 with more than 188 million visits to the Smithsonian websites. The total number of objects, works of art and specimens at the Smithsonian is estimated at 137 million.
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