Costa Cruises is offering Australians a unique historical itinerary on board the Costa Marina for a 14-day sailing adventure around the Red Sea to discover the ancient riches of this remarkable region.
Departing from November 2010, the tour will offer memorable guided day trips in Italy, Greece, Cyprus, Egypt, Israel and Jordan. Excursion highlights include:
Civitavecchia – Experience the best of Italy
Take a day trip from the Port of Civitavecchia to the nearby ancient city of Rome and experience over two and a half thousand years of history and culture. Marvel at the Coliseum, Saint Peter's Basilica, the Baths of Neptune and the Forum.
Rest your feet at one of Rome's great cafes and enjoy watching the stylish locals whilst sampling some of Italy's famous cuisine such as pizza, pasta, coffee and gelato.
Katakolon – The birth place of the Olympics
The first Olympic Games started in Olympia in 776 BC and it is here that the famous torch was lit at the start of the modern Games.
Exercise your adventurous side and head to the archaeological dig sites of Olympia, visiting the monumental remains of the Temple of Zeus, the Temple of Hera and the Stadium. Explore the Archaeological Museum and the modern town of Olympia.
Port Said – The gateway of Eqypt
The mysterious Egyptian desert has some millennia-old masterpieces that still have the power to fascinate even the most experienced traveller.
Take a bus or cruise by boat along the Nile River, taking in the incredible view of the Pyramids of Giza, the Mastaba of Mereruka and the Colossus of Ramses II.
Journey to Cairo, the largest metropolis in Africa, and take in the treasures held within the Egyptian Museum.
Safaga – The pearl of Egypt
Discover Luxor and the most beautiful palace in the whole of Egypt, the temple of Queen Hatshepsut. You will stand open-mouthed before the iconic Egyptian statues of Amenhotep III the world heritage listed 3 kilometre long Avenue of Sphinxes.
In the midst of these wonders, receive an amazing welcome from the colourful semi-nomadic Bedouin tribes living in the surrounding valleys.
Excursion prices start from $41 AUD per adult – for further details visit www.costacruises.com.au
On board the Costa Marina
The Costa Marina features distinctive glass walls that allow you to view the wonders of the open ocean. The furnishing is minimalist and light, featuring a style as elegant as that of a luxury superyacht. The ship's intimate and romantic atmosphere will guarantee a pleasant getaway.
Spend your time in total relaxation at the Wellness Centre or enjoy the wide open spaces on the outdoor deck which features a sun terrace with swimming pool and hydromassage pools.
The ship offers numerous vantage points through its large glass walls, via the restaurants with tables both indoors and outdoors for those who love to dine with a sea view, and the glass dome of the Laguna Club, where you can dance below the stars whatever the season.