| | | | | Arrive | Depart |
| 19th19 | SepSep | 202424 | Dubrovnik, Croatia, embark on the La Belle de L'Adriatique | 18:00 | |
| Nothing can prepare you for your first sight of Dubrovnik. Lying 216 km (135 miles) southeast of Split and commanding a jaw-dropping coastal location, it is one of the world's most beautiful fortified cities. Its massive stone ramparts and fortress towers curve around a tiny harbor, enclosing graduated ridges of sun-bleached orange-tiled roofs, copper domes, and elegant bell towers. Your imagination will run wild picturing what it looked like seven centuries ago when the walls were built, without any suburbs or highways around it, just this magnificent stone city rising out of the sea.In the 7th century AD, residents of the Roman city Epidaurum (now Cavtat) fled the Avars and Slavs of the north and founded a new settlement on a small rocky island, which they named Laus, and later Ragusa. On the mainland hillside opposite the island, the Slav settlement called Dubrovnik grew up. In the 12th century the narrow channel separating the two settlements was filled in (now the main street through the Old Town, called Stradun), and Ragusa and Dubrovnik became one. The city was surrounded by defensive walls during the 13th century, and these were reinforced with towers and bastions in the late 15th century.From 1358 to 1808 the city thrived as a powerful and remarkably sophisticated independent republic, reaching its golden age during the 16th century. In 1667 many of its splendid Gothic and Renaissance buildings were destroyed by an earthquake. The defensive walls survived the disaster, and the city was rebuilt in baroque style.Dubrovnik lost its independence to Napoléon in 1808, and in 1815 passed to Austria-Hungary. During the 20th century, as part of Yugoslavia, the city became a popular tourist destination, and in 1979 it was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During the war for independence, it came under heavy siege. Thanks to careful restoration, few traces of damage remain; however, there are maps inside the Pile and Ploče Gates illustrating the points around the city where damage was done. It’s only when you experience Dubrovnik yourself that you can understand what a treasure the world nearly lost Passengers are welcome to board our ship at 5:00 p.m. We'll introduce our crew at a welcome cocktail. We'll enjoy dinner on board. The rest of the evening is yours to do as you please. |
| 20th20 | SepSep | 202424 | Dubrovnik, Croatia | | 14:00 |
| Nothing can prepare you for your first sight of Dubrovnik. Lying 216 km (135 miles) southeast of Split and commanding a jaw-dropping coastal location, it is one of the world's most beautiful fortified cities. Its massive stone ramparts and fortress towers curve around a tiny harbor, enclosing graduated ridges of sun-bleached orange-tiled roofs, copper domes, and elegant bell towers. Your imagination will run wild picturing what it looked like seven centuries ago when the walls were built, without any suburbs or highways around it, just this magnificent stone city rising out of the sea.In the 7th century AD, residents of the Roman city Epidaurum (now Cavtat) fled the Avars and Slavs of the north and founded a new settlement on a small rocky island, which they named Laus, and later Ragusa. On the mainland hillside opposite the island, the Slav settlement called Dubrovnik grew up. In the 12th century the narrow channel separating the two settlements was filled in (now the main street through the Old Town, called Stradun), and Ragusa and Dubrovnik became one. The city was surrounded by defensive walls during the 13th century, and these were reinforced with towers and bastions in the late 15th century.From 1358 to 1808 the city thrived as a powerful and remarkably sophisticated independent republic, reaching its golden age during the 16th century. In 1667 many of its splendid Gothic and Renaissance buildings were destroyed by an earthquake. The defensive walls survived the disaster, and the city was rebuilt in baroque style.Dubrovnik lost its independence to Napoléon in 1808, and in 1815 passed to Austria-Hungary. During the 20th century, as part of Yugoslavia, the city became a popular tourist destination, and in 1979 it was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During the war for independence, it came under heavy siege. Thanks to careful restoration, few traces of damage remain; however, there are maps inside the Pile and Ploče Gates illustrating the points around the city where damage was done. It’s only when you experience Dubrovnik yourself that you can understand what a treasure the world nearly lost Dubrovnik stands boldly under limestone mountain peaks along the rocky coastline of the gorgeous sea. It is no wonder why Lord Byron described it as the Pearl of the Adriatic. Once the center of the Republic of Ragusa, the city's medieval wall and stone streets are now famous worldwide as the main filming location for King's Landing in Game of Thrones. HIKERS Following an antique aqueduct in Dubrovnik. The old aqueductbuilt over 500 years ago to supply inhabitants with fresh water from a nearby springis now a path dotted with ruins that takes you to the views overlooking Dubrovnik. This is a great opportunity to learn more about the area's history and to take in the spectacular scene of the river and city from above. You'll descend on foot to the Nuncijata district. (2.5-hour hike, 4.3 miles (7 km), intermediate level.) NON-HIKERS Set off on a tour of Dubrovnik, which captivates tourists with its beauty and sublime views. Dubrovnik is a precious gem that adorns the coast along the Adriatic Sea. Discover the natural beauty and rich history of this majestic city. We'll spend the afternoon cruising alongside the Albanian and Montenegrin coastline. We'll enjoy dinner and an evening of entertainment. |
| 21st21 | SepSep | 202424 | Corfu, Greece | 13:00 | |
| Corfu town today is a vivid tapestry of cultures—a sophisticated weave, where charm, history, and natural beauty blend. Located about midway along the island's east coast, this spectacularly lively capital is the cultural heart of Corfu and has a remarkable historic center that UNESCO designated as a World Heritage Site in 2007. All ships and planes dock or land near Corfu town, which occupies a small peninsula jutting into the Ionian Sea.Whether arriving by ferry from mainland Greece or Italy, from another island, or directly by plane, catch your breath by first relaxing with a coffee or a gelato in Corfu town's shaded Liston Arcade, then stroll the narrow lanes of its pedestrians-only quarter. For an overview of the immediate area, and a quick tour of Mon Repos palace, hop on the little tourist train that runs from May to September. Corfu town has a different feel at night, so book a table at one of its famed tavernas to savor the island's unique cuisine.The best way to get around Corfu town is on foot. The town is small enough so that you can easily walk to every sight. There are local buses, but they do not thread their way into the streets (many now car-free) of the historic center. If you are arriving by ferry or plane, it's best to take a taxi to your hotel. Expect to pay about €10 from the airport or ferry terminal to a hotel in Corfu town. If there are no taxis waiting, you can call for one. We'll spend the morning cruising to the splendid island of Corfu. According to Homer's poems, Ulysses made a final stop here before returning to Ithaca.In the afternoon,HIKERSHike from Achilleion Palace through Gastouri to the Holy Church of Agia Kyriaki. Starting at Achilleion Palacejust one of former Empress Elizabeth of Austria's splendid castleswe'll hike through Gastouri to a vista that is home to an old chapel (945 ft./288 m). What makes this hike so special is the beautiful overlooks. The best panorama is from the chapel, where you'll be able to see the islet of Pontikonisi and Corfu in the distance. (4 hours with 2.5 hours hiking time, 919-foot elevation gain (280 m), intermediate level.)NON-HIKERSVisit the old town in Corfu. Today a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the old city dates back to the 8th century BC, but what we see today is approximately 500 years old, built mostly by the Venetians. We'll visit Achilleion, the island's emblematic palace built by the beloved Empress Sissi. As the Achilleion is currently closed for restoration, the visit is replaced by that of the Corfu Archaeological Museum.After our excursion, we'll return on board the ship. Join us for an evening of dancing in the lounge. |
| 22nd22 | SepSep | 202424 | Corfu, Greece | | 06:00 |
| Corfu town today is a vivid tapestry of cultures—a sophisticated weave, where charm, history, and natural beauty blend. Located about midway along the island's east coast, this spectacularly lively capital is the cultural heart of Corfu and has a remarkable historic center that UNESCO designated as a World Heritage Site in 2007. All ships and planes dock or land near Corfu town, which occupies a small peninsula jutting into the Ionian Sea.Whether arriving by ferry from mainland Greece or Italy, from another island, or directly by plane, catch your breath by first relaxing with a coffee or a gelato in Corfu town's shaded Liston Arcade, then stroll the narrow lanes of its pedestrians-only quarter. For an overview of the immediate area, and a quick tour of Mon Repos palace, hop on the little tourist train that runs from May to September. Corfu town has a different feel at night, so book a table at one of its famed tavernas to savor the island's unique cuisine.The best way to get around Corfu town is on foot. The town is small enough so that you can easily walk to every sight. There are local buses, but they do not thread their way into the streets (many now car-free) of the historic center. If you are arriving by ferry or plane, it's best to take a taxi to your hotel. Expect to pay about €10 from the airport or ferry terminal to a hotel in Corfu town. If there are no taxis waiting, you can call for one. We'll cruise to Saranda in the early morning. Excursions for all passengers This morning, we'll visit the Butrint ruins (an approx. 4-hour tour, including 1 hour and 40 minutes of driving). These ancient ruins are famed for their size, beauty, and tranquility. They're in a fantastic natural setting and span over 2,500 years. An acropolis once sat at the top of the hill. The views give you a good idea of the city's layout, and you can see the Vivari Channel connecting Lake Butrint to the Straits of Corfu in the distance. This afternoon, we'll set out on a tour of Gjirokastr (an approx. 5-hour tour, including 3 hours of driving). Historic Gjirokastr is one of Albania's three UNESCO sites. Described as a rare example of a well-preserved Ottoman town, the city is dominated by Gjirokastr Fortress. Gjirokastr contains several remarkable homes with turretssome dating back to the 17th century and more elaborate examples dating back to the early 19th century. The Gjirokastr Bazaar is known for handmade wood pieces, handwoven rugs, and crafts such as delicate lace items. We'll enjoy a tasting of local products at the end of our tour. After our excursion, we'll return on board and begin to cruise to Vlore. Tonight's festivities will have an Albanian flair! Our ship will cruise through the night. |
| 22nd22 | SepSep | 202424 | Sarandë, Albania | 08:00 | 18:00 |
| Sarandë is a city in southern Albania on the coast of the Ionian Sea. Sarandë can be reached easily from the Greek island of Corfu by ferry. An early Christian monastery dedicated to 40 saints (Santi Quaranta) gave Sarandë its name. The city center of Sarandë has been scarred by communist architecture but since the fall of communism many small shops and bars have sprung up which give it a Mediterranean feel. This southernmost harbour of Albania was once the ancient port of Onchesmos. Today, Sarandë’s main attractions are its sunny climate and the nearby ruins of Butrint. Please Note: For your convenience, shore excursions offered for this port of call are available to reserve in advance at www.silversea.com, unless otherwise noted in the description. The deadline to reserve these tours is August 19, after which they will be available for purchase on board, unless otherwise noted in the description. Pier Information The ship is scheduled to anchor at Main Pier. The town center is 875 yards from the pier. Taxis are generally available at the pier. Shopping Typical souvenirs include t-shirts, postcards, wood carvings and dolls in national costume. Cuisine Albanian cuisine has been strongly influenced by Turkey. Grilled meats like shisqubap (shish kebab), romstek (minced meat patties) and gofte (meat balls) are served all across the Balkans. Some local dishes include comlek (meat and onion stew), fërges (a rich beef stew), rosto me salcë kosi (roast beef with sour cream) and tavë kosi (mutton with yoghurt. Lake Shkodra carp and Lake Ohrid trout are the most common fish dishes. Try the ice cream (akullore), which is popular everywhere. Other Sites Blue Eye Spring The iridescent blue water gushes from the depths of the earth and feeds the Bistrica River. Catacombs Recently discovered catacombs of the church of the Forty Saints can also be explored. Private arrangements for independent sightseeing may be requested through the Tour Office on board. |
| 23rd23 | SepSep | 202424 | Vlorë, Albania | 08:00 | 18:00 |
| We'll arrive in Vlore early in the morning. HIKERS Llogara National Park and Caesar's Pass (lunch included). The trail begins near the forest ranger station in the park. We'll hike through the pine forest and wilderness until we reach Caesar's Pass. The name comes from Julius Caesar himself, who traveled the path in 48 BC during the Roman Civil War. The summit provides spectacular views of the valley, the bay, and the Karaburun Peninsula. (Approximately 6-hours with 2 hours and 15 minutes hiking time, 1.55 miles (2.5 km), 3,127-foot elevation gain (953 m), intermediate level.) NON-HIKERS Join us for a full-day tour of Apollonia and Berat (lunch included - approx. 10.5 hours, including 4.5 hours of driving). Our first stop will be Berat. In 2008, the village was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as a rare example of a well-preserved Ottoman town. We'll then continue on to the largest archaeological site in Albania: Apollonia. Set on rolling hills among olive groves with impressive views all around, Apollonia was founded by Greeks from Corinth and Corfu in 588 BC. While the ruins are minimal, the onsite Apollonia Museum complex is an excellent experience. After our excursion, we'll return on board the ship. We'll enjoy dinner and an evening of entertainment. This evening, our ship will begin to cruise to Durrs. |
| 24th24 | SepSep | 202424 | Durrës, Albania | 08:00 | 18:00 |
| We'll arrive in Durrs early in the morning.HIKERSHike to the Black Cave of Pellumbas. We begin our trek along the mountain slope that takes us down to the river canyon. Once we arrive at the cave, we'll use flashlights to get a better look at the impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Leading experts believe it was one of the first prehistoric dwellings in the region based on relics and tools dating as far back as the Neolithic era. If we have the time, we'll jump in the river for a swim on our way back. 2-hour 45-minute hike, 1.2 miles (2 km), 1,148-foot elevation gain (350 m), intermediate level.NON-HIKERSThis morning, we'll visit Tirana and its Natural History Museum (approximately 5 hours long, including 2 hours of driving). Tirana, the capital and largest city, is the heart of Albania's cultural, economic, and governmental activity. We'll visit the National History Museum, which takes you chronologically from ancient Illyria to the post-communist era. (As the National Historical Museum is currently closed for restoration, the visit is replaced by that of the Bunk'Art Museum) We'll also see Skanderbeg Square, where you can get a good look at the city's oldest building, the historic Et'hem Bey Mosque.We'll spend the afternoon cruising. Join us for an evening of dancing in the lounge. |
| 25th25 | SepSep | 202424 | Bar, Montenegro | 08:00 | 18:00 |
| Well spend the morning visiting Stari Bar. Enjoy a guided tour of this old urban settlement in the mountains above the city of Bar. The tranquil feel of this place will make you fall in love with the whole country. Together with the stronghold towers, city gates, gun powder room, Princes Palace, and Bishops Palace, we can imagine the impressive town that it used to be. Well spend the afternoon cruising alongside the Montenegrin coastline and through the Bay of Kotor.Here, the sea spreads out into rippling gulfs and sparkling straits, each more beautiful than the other. The land is treated to an abundance of rainfall and a mild climate, creating the lush vegetation that adorns the hills. Spend time on your own exploring Kotor. Located on Montenegros Adriatic coastline, Kotor is an ancient city known for its historic cultural and architectural heritage. Stroll down its narrow streets, through its picturesque squares, and inside its age-old churches and majestic palaces reflecting its glorious past. Tucked away at the end of the Bay of Kotoroften described as one of the most beautiful bays in the worldthe city is surrounded by a mix of gorgeous mountain scenery and boundless seascapes.Join us for our festive gala evening. |
| 26th26 | SepSep | 202424 | Dubrovnik, Croatia, disembark the La Belle de L'Adriatique | 07:00 | |
| Nothing can prepare you for your first sight of Dubrovnik. Lying 216 km (135 miles) southeast of Split and commanding a jaw-dropping coastal location, it is one of the world's most beautiful fortified cities. Its massive stone ramparts and fortress towers curve around a tiny harbor, enclosing graduated ridges of sun-bleached orange-tiled roofs, copper domes, and elegant bell towers. Your imagination will run wild picturing what it looked like seven centuries ago when the walls were built, without any suburbs or highways around it, just this magnificent stone city rising out of the sea.In the 7th century AD, residents of the Roman city Epidaurum (now Cavtat) fled the Avars and Slavs of the north and founded a new settlement on a small rocky island, which they named Laus, and later Ragusa. On the mainland hillside opposite the island, the Slav settlement called Dubrovnik grew up. In the 12th century the narrow channel separating the two settlements was filled in (now the main street through the Old Town, called Stradun), and Ragusa and Dubrovnik became one. The city was surrounded by defensive walls during the 13th century, and these were reinforced with towers and bastions in the late 15th century.From 1358 to 1808 the city thrived as a powerful and remarkably sophisticated independent republic, reaching its golden age during the 16th century. In 1667 many of its splendid Gothic and Renaissance buildings were destroyed by an earthquake. The defensive walls survived the disaster, and the city was rebuilt in baroque style.Dubrovnik lost its independence to Napoléon in 1808, and in 1815 passed to Austria-Hungary. During the 20th century, as part of Yugoslavia, the city became a popular tourist destination, and in 1979 it was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During the war for independence, it came under heavy siege. Thanks to careful restoration, few traces of damage remain; however, there are maps inside the Pile and Ploče Gates illustrating the points around the city where damage was done. It’s only when you experience Dubrovnik yourself that you can understand what a treasure the world nearly lost Enjoy breakfast on board this morning before disembarking at 9:00 a.m. End of our services. |
