Spring 2022:
Mediterranean Exploration

Italy has something for everyone, whether you are a history buff, outdoor adventurer, or an aspiring chef. If you are looking to explore ancient architecture, visit the Roman ruins or the renowned city of Pompeii, preserved by the volcanic ash of Mount Vesuvius. The five consecutive seaside towns of Cinque Terre offer beautiful hiking trails along the coastline and a chance to explore fishing villages. Culinary enthusiasts can learn how to cook in Naples, a city renowned for its Napoli-style pizza. Semester at Sea ports of call in Italy include Naples and Civitavecchia.

With more ancient sites than any other country in Europe, Greece is an archaeological treasure. Philosophers and theologians have long been drawn here to explore the roots of modern thought. Even so, it is the vibrant blues and rugged beauty of the Greek Islands that beckon many visitors away from the crowds of Athens and the Acropolis. Santorini’s picturesque town of Oia is a whitewashed, blue-domed beauty. The sea-side cafes, windmills and nightlife of Mykonos are also draw for many of our participants. Sandy beaches can be found on Skiathos.

Known for having the cleanest beaches in Europe with year-round blue skies, Cyprus is an island in the eastern Mediterranean Sea renowned since ancient times for its mineral wealth, superb wines, and produce. Today, Cyprus is a popular tourist destination for visitors to experience the island’s laidback lifestyle and welcoming people. Semester at Sea ports of call in Cyprus include Limassol. Field Program options include creating clay art with a local potter as well as exploring ancient archaeological sites in Kourion. Highlights include exploring the Byzantine cultural heritage in the Troodos Mountain region.

Along the Adriatic Sea runs miles of Croatia’s strikingly beautiful landscape. This, along with 1,200 islands and 2,500 hours of sun a year, makes Croatia a perfect destination for exploring stunning nature. Many medieval towns are also to be found in abundance, making this nation a hallmark of the Mediterranean. Dubrovnik itself is an enchanting pedestrian city known for its intact city walls and towers, historic churches, and museums. Semester at Sea ports of call in Croatia include Dubrovnik. Field Program options include exploring ancient cities and joining a countryside cooking class. Highlights include swimming in clear waters and observing the abundant marine life, which makes snorkeling a popular activity.

Malta is an island country located in the central Mediterranean Sea. The country comprises five islands—Malta (the largest), Gozo, Comino, and the uninhabited islets of Kemmunett (Comminotto) and Filfla—lying some 58 miles (93 km) south of Sicily, 180 miles (290 km) north of Libya, and about 180 miles (290 km) east of Tunisia, at the eastern end of the constricted portion of the Mediterranean Sea separating Italy from the African coast.

Spain’s diverse landscape, architecture, art, and cuisine make the country rich in culture and charm. Semester at Sea ports of call in Spain include Barcelona, Valencia, and La Coruna. Field Program options include explorations of the art, culture, and architecture of the two diverse regions. Highlights include overnight trips to Sevilla, Granada, and Madrid, with opportunities to explore the cathedrals, gardens, palaces, and other cultural sites that reflect Spain’s Moorish and Islamic heritage.

Gibraltar, a unique and captivating British Overseas Territory located at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, offers a rich blend of culture, a resilient and diverse population, and a wealth of activities to explore. The culture of Gibraltar is a fascinating fusion of British and Spanish influences, shaped by its strategic location. The Gibraltarians, a warm and friendly community, reflect this mix in their customs and traditions. The community is known for its enduring British identity, with a strong attachment to the iconic Rock of Gibraltar, a symbol of national pride.

Visitors to Gibraltar can revel in a range of experiences. The most prominent attraction is the Rock of Gibraltar, offering breathtaking views and housing the famous Barbary macaques. The city is replete with history, featuring historic sites such as St. Michael’s Cave and the Great Siege Tunnels. Gibraltar’s Mediterranean climate makes it an ideal destination for beach lovers, while the charming streets of Main Street beckon shoppers and food enthusiasts with a variety of cuisines, from traditional British fare to Spanish tapas.

Emerging as one of Europe’s unsung destinations, Portugal is an energetic and vibrant country with a centuries-long history. Semester at Sea ports of call in Portugal include Lisbon and Oporto. Field Program options include exploring the city by Tuk Tuk along with taking in Lisbon’s street art. Highlights include taking a Portuguese cooking class or embarking on an overnight trip to southern Portugal where you can kayak along natural waterways.

Be enticed by some of the most iconic landmarks, world-class art, and architecture that France has to offer. Explore the stunning countryside by tasting locally produced cheese and wine, or venture into the city and come face-to-face with a staggering amount of history. Semester at Sea ports of call in France include Le Havre and Brest. Field Program options include an overnight trip exploring the historic sites of Normandy or seeing the natural beauty of France, such as the sandy beaches of Perros. Highlights include taking an overnight journey to Paris and experiencing all the famous sites this city has to offer.

Scotland, with its dramatic landscapes, rolling countryside, bustling cities, and charming villages, provides visitors with an excellent holiday destination. Many note Scotland as a magical place with its countless castles found throughout the country making visitors as if they are in a fairytale. Semester at Sea ports of call in Scotland include Greenock. Highlights include exploring Craigievar Castle, the inspiration for Walt Disney’s Cinderella castle, or taking a ghost tour in Europe’s reportedly most haunted city, Edinburgh.

Although small in size, Denmark has much to offer. Soak in Danish culture by visiting highlights such as the Tivoli, the Little Mermaid, and more. Explore everything this country has to offer and see for yourself why Denmark has been named one of the happiest countries in the world. Take a walking tour through the capital city of Copenhagen and experience the tranquil and peaceful atmosphere that makes this country so special. From Nordic cuisine to beautiful architecture, you’ll be transported to a place that truly encompasses hygge, or a sense of comfort, a term the Danish made world-famous. Semester at Sea ports of call in Denmark include Copenhagen.

Sweden offers much green space with dense forests, dramatic mountains, and breathtaking coastlines. Swedish art, poetry, literature, music, textiles, dance, and design are deeply infused within the Nordic landscape and climate. Semester at Sea ports of call in Sweden include Stockholm. Highlights include exploring Stockholm’s old town or countless museums — or staying overnight in an ice hotel.

Germany is a must-see destination for its combination of old-world charm and modern urban cities. From beautiful scenery and great architecture to lively festivals, exciting nightlife, and delicious cuisine, Germany offers it all. Semester at Sea ports of call in Germany include Bremerhaven. Highlights include overnight trips to Berlin, an ideal place to experience a buzzing European metropolis with a rich history.