About the cruise

Soak up the culture of the magnificent Mediterranean, from ancient cities shrouded in myths and legends to chic ultra-modern resorts. The food, the architecture and the people watching are second to none. Leaving Southampton Arcadia sails for the delights of the Spanish coast. Climbing the slopes of
Monte del Castro and rising, tier by tier, from an avenue of trees to a citadel crowning its height, is the beautiful port of Vigo. Further afield, you can follow the pilgrims’ footsteps to the holy shrine in Santiago de Compostela.

Palma is a cosmopolitan and sophisticated city, situated along a magnificent bay, and the perfect place to spend an evening in port. At the harbourside, a sweeping promenade leads you past marinas, crammed with expensive yachts, to the magnificent Gothic Cathedral. A cornucopia of shops, authentic tapas bars, cafes, restaurants and fountain-ornamented gardens ensure there is something for everyone. Messina has had a tragic history, culminating in the disastrous earthquake of 1908 and allied bombing during the last war. Although much of the city has been re-built, there are many treasures of its past to be discovered, such as the Greek Roman ruins of Taormina and Mt Etna. Situated on a bay, opposite the imposing Mount Vesuvius, Naples is the perfect gateway for visiting charming resorts of Sorrento and Amalfi on the Italian Riviera, and the ruins of Pompeii.

Civitavecchia is your starting port to the ‘Eternal City’ of Rome. Whilst it has taken many lifetimes to build this magnificent city, you will have a day to explore all the sights. Enchanting fountains, glorious piazzas, the incredible basilica and imposing Colosseum take you from the past to the present. The small town of Palau is the perfect gateway to the stunning Costa Smeralda. Discover the scenic coastline, incredible azure waters, rugged interior and outlying islands of beautiful northern Sardinia. A little piece of Britain in the Mediterranean – Gibraltar is your final port of call. With its helmeted bobbies, pillar boxes and pubs, you will find it a fascinating place to visit. From the caves and batteries tunnelled into the mountain to the apes that sit on its slopes, your visit will be filled with interesting sights and sounds. A relaxing weekend at sea finds you back in Southampton on Sunday 2 November.