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Discovering the Ancient Mediterranean

L2325

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Tunis, Tunisia Panorama of Archaeological Site of Carthage, Tunis

14 Nov 2023

Southampton

16 nights

Balmoral

The cruise at a glance

The Olsen Way Highlights

This cruise offers a glimpse into the history of the ancient trading routes within the Mediterranean and the kingdoms and civilisations that established them. You can delve into the history of the Phoenicians at Carthage from La Goulette and the ancient ruins of Nora from Cagliari. Heading off the tourist trail presents the likes of Algiers, where tours allow you to go ashore and discover architecture influenced by different ruling powers. Cartagena has a fascinating past, having previously been a naval base and an exporter of minerals. Elsewhere, you can immerse yourself in the bustling shops and stalls of Tangier’s Medina and view the Tower of Hercules from Balmoral.

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Highlights

Roman Amphitheater In Cartagena, Spain

Ancient Landmarks

This cruise aboard Balmoral combines intriguing destinations with a fascinating history of ancient empires. One of the most striking highlights is the Roman amphitheatre in Cartagena, considered by many to be the ‘Crown Jewel of Murcia’, it’s a beautifully structured and restored spectacle, which was built over by the Byzantine, Moorish and Christian occupations over thousands of years. Join us for a tour here and learn about the painstaking restoration of the area with a local archaeologist or specialist, and see the remains of a thermal bath complex and the temple devoted to the Roman Gods, Isis and Serapis. You’ll also receive absorbing Scenic Discovery commentary from our on board team as you sail past the historic Tower of Hercules, the oldest working lighthouse in the world.

Spanish dancers, Flamenco

Customs & Traditions Uniting Local Communities

There are many different traditions and customs in evidence on this captivating cruise. In Andalusia, you can learn about the sultry Flamenco dance and Fado music with David Williams, who has had a long freelance career as a producer and cameraman, and now enjoys putting his BA degree in History to use by holding talks on people and events of times gone past, and local traditions. In Cadiz, join a Flamenco class with a local Bailaora and learn a few steps in an authentic tablao-tavern, dating back to the 1700’s. When visiting Tangier, take the opportunity to try a Moroccan tea and bread experience - learn the secrets of crafting the perfect peppermint tea, and enjoy it with delicious, fresh bread.

Ruins of archaeological site Nora, Cagliari, Sardinia

Trading Empires

Many of the destinations visited on this cruise were integral to trading in the days of the Phoenicians, Carthaginians and Romans. The ruins of Nora in Cagliari are of particular importance, as it had a double harbour which was founded by the Phoenicians, and amongst the excavations are remains of Carthaginian warehouses, a Carthaginian-Roman temple and an almost intact theatre dating back to Roman times. You’ll be joined on this cruise by Hilary Rock Gormley, who will hold fascinating talks on the Punic Wars and their effect on this area of the Mediterranean; and the active areas for trade, cultural development and the growth of civilisations across the region. Hilary has had a passion for ancient history since she was a child, broadening her interests over time to encompass prehistory.

Itinerary

Cruise Itinerary

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Life On Board

Introducing Balmoral

Beautiful Balmoral is small enough to navigate some of Europe’s most picturesque waterways so guests can enjoy hours of scenic cruising. Balmoral retains a warm, civilised atmosphere and features comfortable accommodation, stylish restaurants and plenty of open deck space.

Balmoral
Fred. Olsen ship Balmoral sailing at dawn

Balmoral

Beautiful Balmoral is small enough to navigate Europe’s most picturesque waterways so guests can enjoy hours of scenic cruising. Balmoral offers a warm, civilised atmosphere and features comfortable accommodation, stylish restaurants and plenty of open-deck space.

710 cabins
1,325 guests
551 crew
43,537 GT
16kts max speed
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Our Signature Experiences

To make your experience even more special, our Journey Planners have designed a unique programme of Signature Experiences which will allow you to discover real insights about the culture and nature of the places we are visiting, so you can arrive in each destination fully prepared to get the most out of your visit.

Itinerary Insights

We have carefully curated a programme of events to give you a deeper understanding of each of the destinations you will be visiting

Scenic Discoveries

Our Scenic Discoveries are designed to allow you to enjoy seeing the world from the unique perspective of our ships

The Ship and the Sea

Maritime is in our DNA - our history in shipping goes back almost 200 years

The Sky at Sea

There’s very little in the natural world more beautiful than a clear night sky, sunrise or sunset seen at sea

Treats of the Region

We love to bring a taste of the region's food, drink, local tastes and culinary traditions to life on board

Cabins, Prices & Offers

Cabin Options On Your Cruise

* Prices correct as of 19:00 22/09/2023, based on the lowest available Cruise Only fare, and on two people sharing a twin cabin. Please call +441473746175 for live availability & prices.

* Prices correct as of 19:00 22/09/2023, based on the lowest available Cruise Only fare, and on sole occupancy. Please call +441473746175 for live availability & prices.

Cabin Grades

Standard Pricing Solo Pricing
Suite

Balcony Junior Suite (BJ)

Balmoral's Balcony Junior Suites have a large cabin area and private balcony

Little man Solo traveller offer available

Saver Fare From £3,799 pp
Freedom Fare From £4,199 pp
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Suite

Marquee Suite (MS)

Situated on deck 10, Marquee Suites have a private balcony and large cabin area

Freedom Fare From £5,599 pp
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Suite

Owner's Suite (OW)

Exclusive Suite - please call for more details

Freedom Fare From £7,499 pp
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Suite

Premier Suite (PS)

Located on deck 10, Premier Suites have a private balcony and large cabin area

Freedom Fare From £5,799 pp
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Suite

Superior Suite (SS)

Located on decks 9 & 10, Superior Suites have a balcony and large cabin area

Little man Solo traveller offer available

Saver Fare From £3,899 pp
Freedom Fare From £4,299 pp
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Cruise Offers

Solo traveller offer available   Saver Fare
Freedom Fare

Quote ONLINE23 to SAVE an EXTRA £100pp   Saver Fare
Freedom Fare

Enjoy FREE drinks   Saver Fare
Freedom Fare

What's Included

SO MUCH ALREADY INCLUDED

As well as our Signature Experiences, there is a host of other treats to enjoy on board our ships.

Treats & Pastimes

In addition to our Signature Experiences, we have a selection of lovely Treats & Pastimes for you to enjoy when on board. Just check your Daily Times each day for full details.

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Enhance your cruise

Each of our cruises has been carefully designed for you to get the very best out of your time on board; and now you can enhance your cruise to make it even more special.

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