Cruise Itinerary

Unearth the Med’s master of restoration and renovation behind honey-hued Valetta’s fortified walls. Strewn with a mass of well-preserved history - head back in time to hand-carved shelters, a maze of subterranean tombs and stone-age temples. Discover war secrets beneath the limestone streets, skim the Grand Harbour aboard a dghajsa, step into state history and get your fill of art and Fat Ladies in museums. But it’s not all ancient history - watch buzzing bars spill out onto limestone alleys, treat yourself to Michelin-starred Maltese cuisine, neighbourhood watch and dive over wrecks. Malta may be Europe’s tiniest capital, but she packs a might punch.

Spain's Balearic Islands are among Europe's most popular resort destinations. Mallorca is the largest and most developed of these islands. Rome and Carthage battled over this territory and portions of ancient Roman constructions still remain. Founded almost 2,100 years ago, the city of Palma de Mallorca, the island's busy capital city boasts a considerable store of history. Mallorca welcomes its visitors to an island, which can be both exciting and tranquil. The abundant sightseeing and sunshine are yours to enjoy.

With Spain to the north and Morocco to the south, Gibraltar is the famous promontory dominating the narrow entrance to the Mediterranean. Its position led to its seizure by the Moors in 711 as a prelude to the conquest of Spain. The Moorish influence includes the name Gibraltar, a corruption of "Jebel Tariq" (Tariq's Mountain), named after the Moorish commander Tariq who built the first fortification. In ancient times Gibraltar was regarded as one of the two Pillars of Hercules, which marked the western limits of the known world. Known commonly as "The Rock," Gibraltar is full of natural caves and manmade tunnels. The Rock itself, composed of limestone and gray marble, is geographically part of the Iberian Peninsula. Politically, the British have controlled Gibraltar for over two centuries. This tiny self-governing British Colony welcomes you to enjoy its historical sites, magnificent views, beautiful beaches and duty free shops.

Lanzarote’s most famous feature is its otherworldly landscape, born of hundreds of fire-breathing peaks. The last eruption was in 1824, and though the region is now classed as dormant, you can still feel the heat under the surface at Timanfaya National Park. Considering that the island is a desert with only 5-6 inches (125-150 mm) of rain a year, the ingenious farmers of Lanzarote have worked agricultural miracles, especially in the wine region of Geria, where vines are planted and flourish in a layer of black volcanic sand, which holds on tight to every last drop of moisture. It is an amazing sight to see, and produces a nectar that is a delight to sip.

The largest Canary Island is dominated by 12,198-foot Mount Teide. The cuisine features locally grown fruits (banana, mango, and papaya) and fresh fish. Clean, sandy beaches offer chances for windsurfing, surfing, snorkeling and diving. You’ll find everything from lush vegetation to water parks and interesting shopping.