About the cruise

Enjoy a journey to the ancient and culture-rich lands of the magnificent Mediterranean. You will love the capital of the Costa del Sol, lively Malaga, with its strong Moorish influence. See the Arabic delicacy of the Alcazaba Palace or climb to lofty Gibralfaro Castle for commanding views. Visit the dazzling white village of Mijas or drive down the coast to fashionable Marbella.

Enjoy the surroundings of Aurora for a few leisurely days as you sail through the splendid Mediterranean to Port Said, at the head of the Suez Canal. From here you can visit Cairo, Egypt’s largest city, a maelstrom of traffic, bazaars and glorious mosques and palaces. See Tutankhamun in the Archaeological Museum and the wondrous Pyramids, just outside the city. Next is Alexandria, often said to be the greatest historical city of all. Home to the famous library, it also boasts Pharos Lighthouse, one of the wonders of the ancient world.

Tripoli, the ‘White Bride of the Mediterranean’, has a great deal of allure due to its historic mosques and lively streets. Its most dominant feature is the Red Castle, with its labyrinth of courtyards, alleyways and houses, built up over the centuries. Visit the Roman City of Sabratha and admire the ruins of Emperor Commodus’ theatre.

The only island to have won the George Cross for bravery, Malta has been embattled for centuries – compelling evidence is the imposing and historic Grand Harbour of the capital, Valletta. From La Goulette there is plenty to do. You can explore the medieval medina of Tunis and bargain hunt in the treasure-filled souk or visit the pretty little town of Sidi Bou Said. Alternatively, view the spectacular ruins at Carthage, once a glorious rival of Rome.

Welcome to the most famous rock in the world. From Gibraltar’s summit, on a clear day, you can see across to Africa - a view that demonstrates its strategic importance. Snap the infamous apes before descending to the town with its British phone boxes, road signs and - thankfully - pubs! Make a final stop in the Portuguese capital, Lisbon. A once powerful and wealthy city, it is filled with lavish palaces and monasteries, crammed with imperial treasures. You will arrive back in Southampton on Thursday 27 November.