Voyage from Malta to Athens · Siracusa, Sicily Once a powerful threat to the hegemony of Athens, Siracusa was founded around 734 B.C. by Greek Corinthians and subsequently ruled

Voyage from Malta to Athensaboard the privately chartered Variety Voyager

September 12–21, 2015

Contact us with any questions or to make your reservation today! 888-328-2089 [email protected]

HIGHLIGHTS• Explore fascinating archaeological and UNESCO World Heritage sites in

the company of local experts.

• Delight in the Baroque churches of Lecce and the mosaics of Otranto’s medieval cathedral in Italy’s Apulia region.

• Savor delicious Sicilian cuisine on the slopes of Mt. Etna and meet with expert mozzarella makers in Siracusa and the oenologist at the Villagrande estate.

• Visit the grand palaces of Corfu and the island’s UNESCO World Heritge– designated Old Town.

• Transit the engineering marvel that is the Corinth Canal while enjoying a festive toast to the completion of our journey.

Valletta

Siracusa

Taormina

Otranto

Lecce

Corfu

Delphi

Athens

SICILY

MALTA

ITALY

GREECE

CORINTHCANAL

THE MEDITERRANEAN IS SUCH a popular destination that it is challenging to find less well-known and relatively unexplored sites to offer to experienced travelers. So, we are very enthusiastic about the itinerary of our voyage from Malta to Athens, with its wonderful blend of traditional top picks such as Sicily and Greece, and several exciting new places to explore, including the Apulia region of Italy and the beautiful Ionian island of Corfu.

Aboard the sleek yacht Variety Voyager, depart from the massive walled harbor of Malta to the fascinating island of Sicily, calling at Siracusa and Taormina, both wrapped in historic as well as contemporary appeal. Cross the Ionian Sea to the largely undiscovered Apulia region of southern Italy, where you can explore Byzantine and Baroque treasures and sample the culinary specialties of the region. Continue to the lush and inviting Greek isle of Corfu to delight in its stunning neoclassical Achilleion Place; Mon Repos, a villa that was the birthplace of England’s Prince Philip; and a colorful UNESCO World Heritage–designated Old Town. En route to Athens, explore dramatically sited and mythologically rich Delphi, home of the ancient Oracle, and transit the spectacular Corinth Canal, with its soaring walls and narrow waterway. Those who wish can continue onboard for an optional post-trip cruise to Istanbul.


SATURDAY & SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 & 13Home / Valletta, MaltaDepart home on an overnight flight to Valletta, Malta. Check in to the hotel for an orientation and welcome reception. GRAND HOTEL EXCELSIOR (R)

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 14VallettaValletta, the capital of Malta and a UNESCO World Heritage site, was built by the Knights Hospitaller Order of St. John to defend against Ottoman invasions in the 16th century. Tour the Co-Cathedral and Baptistery, where Caravaggio’s masterpiece, The Beheading of St. John the Baptist, hangs. The marble floor of the cathedral is a series of tombs housing 375 knights and officers of the order. Visit the National Museum of Archaeology’s prehistoric treasures; the Palace of the Grand Masters museum and armory; and the beautiful Barrakka Gardens, with panoramic views of the Grand Harbor. Embark Variety Voyager in the late afternoon. VARIETY VOYAGER (B,L,D)

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15Siracusa, SicilyOnce a powerful threat to the hegemony of Athens, Siracusa was founded around 734 B.C. by Greek Corinthians and subsequently ruled by Romans, Saracens, Byzantines, Normans, and Ottomans, who left a legacy of temples, cathedrals, theaters, agoras, and amphitheaters that earned Siracusa UNESCO World Heritage status. Take an excursion to the Archaeological Park’s stadium and Cave of Dionysius and to the Museum of Archaeology. Explore the ancient Jewish Quarter, home to the oldest mikveh (ritual

bath) known to survive in Europe, and enjoy a private cheese-making lesson and tasting at an artisan cheese factory. On the island of Ortigia, which separates Siracusa’s two harbors, visit the 6th-century B.C. Temple of Apollo and the Arethusa Fountain. VARIETY VOYAGER (B,L,D)

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16TaorminaTaormina is renowned for its cosmopolitan atmosphere, beautiful monuments, and lush gardens. Enjoy a guided tour of the ancient Greco-Roman amphitheater, believed to have been a venue for gladiators, take a stroll along the lively promenade Corso Umberto, and enjoy free time in the heart of the city. Drive to the flanks of nearby Mt. Etna for a wine tasting and al fresco lunch, then explore the Silvestri Crater’s lava fields. VARIETY VOYAGER (B,L,D)

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17At Sea / Otranto, ItalyThis afternoon Variety Voyager arrives in Otranto, at the bottom of the heel of Italy’s “boot” in the largely undiscovered region of Apulia. Observe the Byzantine frescoes in the stunning Chiesa di San Pietro (Church of St. Peter); then enjoy a dinner of Pugliese specialties at a real working farm outside of Otranto (a particular regional favorite is orecchiette, pasta in the shape of “small ears”). VARIETY VOYAGER (B,L,D)

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 18LecceToday enjoy an excursion to nearby Lecce, commonly called the “Florence of the South” because of its numerous Baroque-

era churches embellished with elaborately carved facades and dazzling interiors. Enjoy a locavore lunch, perhaps accompanied by a splash of Lecce’s superior olive oil and a glass of its outstanding wine, before returning to Otranto to reboard the ship and depart for Greece. VARIETY VOYAGER (B,L,D)

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19Corfu, GreeceCorfu is the second largest of the Ionian Islands and has been intertwined with the history of Greece from the beginning of Greek mythology. In the island’s principal city, also called Corfu, explore the Achilleion Palace, built by Empress of Austria Elisabeth of Bavaria in 1890 as a monument to platonic romanticism. The centerpiece of its garden is a famous marble statue, Achilles Dying, one of many neoclassical Greek statues at the palace. Also visit Mon Repos, a villa built in the early 1800s for the British governors, which later served as a school of fine arts and as a summer residence for the Greek royal family. Mon Repos, the birthplace of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, today houses an archaeology museum. After free time for lunch and independent exploration, take a guided walk through the streets of Corfu’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. VARIETY VOYAGER (B,D)

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20Delphi / AthensCruise from Corfu to Itea for an excursion to the spectacular ruins at Delphi. Located on the slopes of Mt. Parnassos, Delphi was the sanctuary of the influential Delphic oracle and was considered to be the center of the world

by the ancient Greeks. Marvel at the stunning setting and awe-inspiring architecture, and explore the archaeological museum at the site. Return to the ship and cruise at dusk through the dramatic Corinth Canal, whose steep limestone walls soar nearly 300 feet overhead. Enjoy a farewell reception and dinner on board. VARIETY VOYAGER (B,L,D)

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 21Athens / HomeDisembark in Piraeus, the port of Athens, and transfer to the airport for flights home. (B)

OPTIONAL EXTENSION

DAILY ITINERARY

Enjoy an additional four-night cruise aboard the Variety Voyager, sailing from Athens to Istanbul. In Athens, visit the Acropolis, birthplace of democracy, then cross the Aegean Sea to explore Ephesus, once the wealthiest, most powerful city in the Eastern Mediterranean. Sail to Pergamon, which boasted the richest, most extensive library in the known world. Further up the coast of Asia Minor, stop at the ruins of Troas, where the Achaeans fought for the honor of Helen at the Battle of Troy, famously recounted in Homer’s Iliad. Then navigate the narrow Dardanelles and cruise across the Sea of Marmara to Istanbul. Additional details and rates will be sent to confirmed program participants.

MONDAY–FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 21–25Cruise from Athens to Istanbul


VARIETY VOYAGERThe Variety Voyager is a state-of-the-art yacht that accommodates just 72 passengers in 36 cabins, and is designed to host small charters like ours. Cabins range in size from 129 to 248 sq.ft. and are comfortably furnished. They feature en suite facilities, individually controlled air-conditioning, and TV/ DVD. Throughout the ship, guests enjoy unobstructed views of the ocean and the ports visited and the services of a friendly crew of 28. There are opportunities to dine both inside and al fresco, and complimentary beer and wine are served with lunch and dinner. Public areas include a partly shaded lounge/bar on the sundeck, library, and mini-spa with massage room, sauna, steam room, and fitness equipment. There is an Internet Corner and access to 24-hour Wi-Fi in the lounge.

U.S. domestic and international airfare is not included in the program cost. Round-trip, economy-class airfare from major U.S. gateways to Valletta, Malta with return from Athens is approximately $1,650 as of March 2015 and is subject to change without notice. In order to give you as much flexibility as possible with the variety of air travel options available, you are free to make your own air arrangements for this program.

RATES

Category B

Marina and Riviera Decks. 145–216 sq.ft. depending on location, oversized twin port holes (Marina Deck) or double windows (Riviera Deck), twin beds or queen bed (7 of the 11 cabins o�er �exible bedding con�guration), shower.

Category C

Marina Deck. 129–145 sq.ft. depending on location, oversized twin portholes, twin beds or queen bed, shower.

Category A

Riviera Deck. 151–195 sq.ft. depending on location, double windows, twin beds or queen bed (9 of the 11 cabins o�er �exible bedding con�guration), shower.

Category P

Horizons Deck. 227–248 sq.ft. depending on location, double windows, twin beds or queen bed (all cabins o�er �exible bedding con�guration and 4 of the 7 include an extra sofa bed), shower.

Owner’s Suite

Horizons Deck. 292 sq.ft., four windows, twin beds or queen bed (�exible bedding con�guration), shower.

OCEANS DECK

HORIZONS DECK

RIVIERA DECK

MARINA DECK

Oceans Lounge

Horizons Dining Room

Riviera Lounge

Jade Spa Suite

Library & Internet Corner

301 303 305 307

302 304 306 308

201 203 205 207 209 211 213 215

202 204 206 208 210 212 214

101 103 105 107 109 111 113

102 104 106 108 110 112

Category B


Category C


Category A


Category P


Owner’s Suite


OCEANS DECK

HORIZONS DECK

RIVIERA DECK

MARINA DECK

Oceans Lounge


Riviera Lounge

Jade Spa Suite


301 303 305 307

302 304 306 308

201 203 205 207 209 211 213 215

202 204 206 208 210 212 214

101 103 105 107 109 111 113

102 104 106 108 110 112

Category B


Category C


Category A


Category P


Owner’s Suite


OCEANS DECK

HORIZONS DECK

RIVIERA DECK

MARINA DECK

Oceans Lounge


Riviera Lounge

Jade Spa Suite


301 303 305 307

302 304 306 308

201 203 205 207 209 211 213 215

202 204 206 208 210 212 214

101 103 105 107 109 111 113

102 104 106 108 110 112

CATEGORY C

CATEGORY B

CATEGORY A

CATEGORY P

OWNER’S SUITE

Double Single

$7,995 $10,995

$8,995 $12,295

$9,995

$10,995

$12,495


Program Rates IncludeAll accommodations, meals, and excursions as specified in the itinerary, including a 7-night cruise aboard the Variety Voyager • Comprehensive program of briefings, lectures, and presentations • Welcome and farewell wine receptions • House wine or beer and soft drinks with lunches and dinners • Bottled water on motor coaches • Gratuities to guides, drivers, porters, wait staff, and shipboard personnel for all group activities • Transfers and baggage handling on program arrival and departure days • Port fees and embarkation taxes • Services of a professional tour manager

Program Rates Do Not IncludeInternational and U.S. domestic airfare • Passport and visa fees • Immunization costs • Meals and beverages other than those specified as included • Independent and private transfers • Trip cancellation/interruption and baggage insurance • Excess baggage charges • Personal items such as Internet access, telephone and fax calls, room service, laundry and gratuities for non-group services. Optional excursions or deviations from the scheduled tour • Other items of a personal nature

What to Expect This is a moderately strenuous program that is at times physically demanding and busy. Participants must be physically fit, active, and in good health. Daily programs involve walking of one to two miles, such as through archaeological sites, from coach drop-off points, in museums, and on city tours—sometimes on uneven terrain including dirt and cobblestoned paths. Participants must be able to walk at least 20 minutes up and down hills without stopping, and stand outside for more than two hours with limited shade and no available seating. The expected climate will be hot and dry with average temperatures into the 80s.

Group Size This program is limited to a total of 62 participants including travelers from the National Trust for Historic Preservation and Stanford.

InsuranceTravel insurance for trip cancellation and interruption, medical problems, baggage loss and delay, etc., is highly recommended, and we hope that you will obtain it for this expedition. Trip cancellation policies that apply to this expedition are included in this brochure. Please be sure to carry the details of your travel insurance coverage with you on the program. Travelers are free to purchase the travel insurance of their choice. It is recommended that travelers clearly understand the difference between “primary” and “secondary” travel insurance.

Reservations and DepositsTo reserve space, please complete the reservation form and mail it with your check or credit card information to the address at the top of the form. You may also fax the form to (650) 560-6400 and your reservation will be held for five working days pending receipt of

your check or credit card information. If you have questions, please call (888) 328-2089 or email [email protected]. Final payment deadline is May 15, 2015, 120 days prior to departure.

Cancellations and RefundsUpon payment of a $1,000 deposit per person, all reservations are subject to the cancellation provisions set forth below and by which the passenger agrees to be bound. Cancellations shall not be effective until they are received in writing and confirmed by the Criterion Travel. Deposits are refundable (less a $250 per person administration fee) if written notice of cancellation is received within 30 days of reservation; after that, deposits are 100% nonrefundable. Final payment is due May 15, 2015 (120 days prior to departure). Cancellations within 120 days of departure are 100% nonrefundable. For this reason we strongly urge participants to purchase trip cancellation insurance. If the program is cancelled by Criterion Travel, you will receive a full refund, without further obligation on our part. No refunds will be made for any part of this program on which you choose not to participate. Note: Criterion Travel does not accept liability for any airline cancellation penalty incurred by the purchase of a nonrefundable ticket in conjunction with this tour.

Itinerary ChangesThe itinerary presented for this tour is subject to modification and change by Criterion Travel. Every reasonable effort will be made to operate the program as planned; however, should unforeseen world events and conditions require the itinerary to be altered, Criterion Travel reserves the right to do so for the safety and best interest of the group. Any extra expenses incurred in this situation are the responsibility of the participant.

Reservation Contact(888) 328-2089 or [email protected]

California Seller of Travel ProgramCST #2088800-40

PHOTO CREDITS:(From Dreamstime.com): Corinth Canal © Nikolai Sorokin; Malta harbor © Cecilia Lim; Isola Bella © Emicristea; Delphi - Temple of Apollo © Witr; Siracusa Street © Siculodoc; Lemons © Flavio Massari; Valletta © Robwilson39; View of VAlletta © Iakov Filimonov; Fiat © Worldfoto;

GENERAL INFORMATION RESERVATION FORM

NAME #1 (as on passport) BIRTHDATE

NAME #2 (as on passport) BIRTHDATE

STREET ADDRESS

CITY / STATE / ZIP / POSTAL CODE

HOME PHONE WORK PHONE FAX

E-MAIL(s)

PAYMENT O Enclosed is my check for $ ______________ ($1,000 per person), to reserve _____ place(s) on A Voyage from Malta to Athens OR O Charge the deposit to my credit card (circle one): Visa Mastercard AMEX Diners Club Discover

NAME ON CREDIT CARD

CARD # EXP. DATE SECURITY CODE

SIGNATURE AS IT APPEARS ON CREDIT CARD DATE

CATEGORY PREFERENCE1st Choice _________________ 2nd Choice __________________

Bed Preference (not guaranteed): O One bed O Two beds

SINGLE TRAVELERS O I prefer to have single accommodations.OR O I plan to share accommodations with: ________________________________________________OR O I’d like to know about roommates. I am a O Non-smoker O Smoker. I understand that if a roommate cannot be found by the final payment deadline of May 15, 2015, I will pay the single rate.

O I/We have read the Terms & Conditions section of this brochure and understand and agree with them as stated herein.

SIGNATURE DATE

SIGNATURE DATE

To reserve a place on A Voyage from Malta to Athens please complete and return this form with your deposit of $1,000 per person, payable to Criterion Travel. Mail to: 145 Forest Ave. Palo Alto, CA 94301. For more information or to reserve by phone, please call (888) 328-2089 or (650) 328-2089, or email [email protected]

mailto:res%40criteriontravel.com?subject=

mailto:res%40criteriontravel.com?subject=

Documents

Voyage from Malta to Athens · Siracusa, Sicily Once a powerful threat to the hegemony of Athens, Siracusa was founded around 734 B.C. by Greek Corinthians and subsequently ruled