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Journey to the heart of Bavaria to experience a fairy-tale town that hosts a very special celebration once every decade. On this once-in-a-lifetime extension, be enchanted by a breathtaking village frozen in time, home to famous Lüftlmalerei wall paintings and wood carvings that depict traditional mythical stories. And, on one evening every ten years, the town puts on a Passion Play about the life of Jesus, fabled to have kept a plague at bay more than four centuries ago.
This year is even more unprecedented, as the current global state of affairs delayed the event from 2020 now to 2022. You'll have the opportunity to take part in this tradition that remains alive and well and has been an international allurement for the faithful and historians alike since 1634.
Not only will you have a seat on one of the most dramatic and unforgettable performances, you'll also be able to explore modern and storied Munich and discover what makes this city so wonderful. Enjoy some of the best seats in the house on the Oberammergau Passion Play and more of the most enriching features on this spectacular extension in Germany.
Immerse yourself in the exoticism, fascinating history, and resplendent architecture of Istanbul, where Europe meets Asia along the bustling Bosphorus Strait. You’ll step into the world of Ottoman sultans at the Topkapi Palace, marvel at the towering domes and minarets of the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, and roam the endless passageways of the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Market, teeming with colorful carpets, leather goods, jewelry, and lanterns. Your three nights in this intoxicating cultural capital are the perfect way to start off your ocean expedition.
Enhance your Adriatic cruise by stealing away to Lake Bled, Slovenia, for a four-day stay at a tranquil resort surrounded by the majestic Julian Alps. Take daily excursions to the region’s beautiful sights including Bled Castle, set on a cliff high above the lake. Included features and Cultural Discoveries — with visits to a mountain village and a gingerbread maker — give you insight into the unique local lifestyle. Stay at a grand lakeside resort that offers unbeatable views and relax after each day of sightseeing.
Board an overnight flight to Zagreb, Croatia
Today you’ll board an overnight flight to Zagreb. Or, depart earlier for your pre-trip extension in Lake Bled, Slovenia.
Arrive in Zagreb
Welcome to Zagreb! If you purchased your airfare from Vantage, a representative will meet you at the airport and assist with your hotel transfer. This evening, enjoy a Welcome Briefing and Dinner at the hotel, getting to know your fellow passengers.
Included meals:
Discover Zagreb's monuments and markets
You'll met your expert local guide this morning for a tour of Zagreb, Croatia’s capital. View the city’s impressive landmarks during a panoramic drive, including the “lower city” distinguished by its 18th and 19th century Austro-Hungarian architecture, Croatian National Theater and Opera House, Croatian Treasury, and more. Then, walk through the main square and the city’s “upper town,” strolling past the Croatian Parliament, the Prime Minister’s office, St. Mark’s square, and the Stone Gate. You'll also visit the Dolac Traditional Food Market, the largest market in Croatia, where local products arrive from villages to be sold in the city.
This afternoon, enjoy an afternoon at leisure, perhaps visiting the city's unique Museum of Broken Relationships or taking a walk through the botanical gardens. Zagreb also has one of the world's most extensive tram systems. So, consider boarding the local tram back to your hotel or to the city center for further exploration. Your Vantage Cruise Director will be happy to assist with directions or suggestions of other activities. Dinner is on your own tonight, so perhaps you’ll enjoy the upscale Zinfandel restaurant at your hotel or discover the many other options within walking distance.
Included Feature:
Cultural Discovery:
Discover Opatija and embark the Ocean Odyssey
After breakfast, enjoy a scenic drive through the Croatian highlands on your way back to Croatia, to the lovely seaside town of Opatija. En route you'll engage in an interesting lecture about "Life in Croatia today." Embark on a walking tour of Opatija, which once catered to European royalty with stately villas, seaside promenade, and lovely gardens. Lunch is on your own with many excellent choices. Ask you guide where you can find fresh seafood, a local specialty.
Later you'll cross border to Slovenia and enjoy a scenic drive through the Slovenian countryside on your way to Trieste, an Italian city that boasts a distinct Istrian culture. Here is where you'll embark the Ocean Odyssey. Get settled in your cabin, taking time to explore its amenities, including the onboard boutique, spa, pool, and gym. Stop by the Concierge desk to reserve a spa appointment. Later, join the first of your daily port talks to learn about tomorrow’s exciting destination. Tonight, the ship sets sail for Pula and Rovinj.
Enjoy the wonders of the Istrian Peninsula
Discover part of one of the most beautiful regions of Croatia on a full-day tour of Pula and Rovinj. Istria is one of the most developed regions of Croatia and is sometimes referred to as “Croatian Tuscany,” with some of the most picturesque towns in the country.
Explore Pula Arena, Europe's most complete Roman amphitheater, when we stop in the ancient town of Pula. You'll be able to go beneath the arena floor to see the actual passageways and rooms where gladiators and their foes, including wild animals, awaited their turn in combat. We’ll also see the town and its streets that are briming with history juxtaposed with modern shops and restaurants. We'll have lunch back on the ship before sailing along the 14-island national park, the Brijuni islands, to the picturesque coastal town of Rovinj, which was part of Venice's mercantile empire and has a distinctive Venetian aspect to it. Today, it’s a jet-set town for regional and international tourists alike due to the breathtaking palate of its skyline and its mesmerizing ocean views. Enjoy a guided tour to see its charms for yourself.
For the best views of the town and the harbor, make the mile-and-a-quarter trek uphill to the Church of St. Euphemia — it's well worth the effort! This evening, enjoy your Captain's Welcome Dinner onboard with "klapa" singers, a UNESCO protected cultural heritage of Croatia.
Included Features:
Explore Zadar, Šibenik, and Croatia's scenic northern coast
Following breakfast this morning, the ship will arrive in Zadar, another coastal gem that was named Europe's top destination in 2016 and was inducted as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017. This Roman-era city boasts a historic blend of Ancient, Renaissance, Romanesque, and medieval architecture. On your walking tour, you'll have the chance to visit the UNESCO-listed Historic Defense Walls in the city, dating back to the 1500s.
As you enjoy lunch onboard, we'll continue on one of most scenic stretches along Northern Dalmatia coastline, passing between the Kornati Islands, as we make our way to Šibenik. En route, take part in an informative lecture on Croatian and regional history. Upon arriving in Šibenik, set off on a walking tour among some of the oldest streets in Croatia that date back to the 11th century, where you’ll see the Cathedral of St. James, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most important architectural achievement in the country.
Dinner will be back on the ship, as well as some lively entertainment onboard this evening.
Sailing into Split
Enjoy a morning at leisure. Lunch is back onboard as we cruise to Split, one of the oldest cities in this historic region. En route, enjoy an interesting lecture on the Mediterranean diet with samples of local products. Dinner will be back on the ship paired with evening entertainment.
Cultural Discoveries:
Unearth the UNESCO treasures of Hvar and Split
This morning in Split, explore ancient Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which the emperor chose as his retirement home because of the area’s spectacular beauty. Your special tour also takes you into the mysterious passages in the lower levels of the palace’s massive structure — Game of Thrones fans will recognize this site as one of the show's filming locations!
Return for lunch on board as we enjoy a beautiful cruise to Hvar, another idyllic Mediterranean port, passing many remote and uninhabited islands along the way. Hvar is a popular celebrity destination known for its vast fields of lavender, ancient olive trees, and fruit orchards. Set off on a guided walking tour and learn the port town's history, hear about local legends, and visit the lace museum, inside the Benedictine Monastery. Aloe lace is made in Croatia only by the nuns of this monastery, and is designated by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage feature. You'll also visit visit Stari Grad Plain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You may also choose to go swimming, snorkeling, or fishing (weather permitting). Active travelers shouldn't miss the walk to Hvar Fortress, with entrance included. Later, enjoy a fascinating onboard lecture about the Dubrovnik Republic and its unique foundations, a topic which will inform the discoveries you make in this part of the world.
Experience Dubrovnik's Old City and a private concert
Today, your carefully selected local guide will lead you through Dubrovnik's Old City — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — introducing you to its most heralded landmarks, as well as its hidden gems. Following the tour, you’ll relax in a centuries-old church for a Vantage-exclusive private classical concert by the Sorkočević Quartet, who are members of the Croatian National Philharmonic Orchestra.
Return to your ship for lunch, then enjoy a leisurely afternoon and evening. You'll be supplied with a one-day Dubrovnik card, which provides free entrance to numerous sites around the city, including access to the walkway atop the walls surrounding the Old City. Your Cruise Director and Concierge will be happy to recommend activities to do and places to see.
Tour Kotor and the UNESCO surrounding bay
Heading toward Corfu, Greece, you’ll follow the winding Bay of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The poet Lord Byron wrote: “The Bay of Kotor, a submerged river canyon surrounded by dramatic rising mountain cliffs, is the jewel of the coast of Montenegro.” Tucked away at the head of the bay is the town of Kotor featuring intriguing medieval fortifications. Here, you’ll learn the history of the town — which is believed to stretch back as far as the first century — while you walk the charming tangle of Old World streets. The city’s walls stretch up more than 800 feet from sea level to the fortress of Saint Giovanni. The views are sure to take your breath away, from medieval churches to staggering mountains. Later, enjoy an eye-opening lecture on the history of Yugoslavia.
Spend the day in vibrant Corfu
Enjoy a splendid day on the scenic island of Corfu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site adorned with Venetian inspiration and a lively local lifestyle. You'll have the opportunity to explore Corfu town on the east side, full of traditional bars, restaurants, and shops framed by winding alleyways.
During your time in Corfu, you'll indulge in a tour of one of its most famed attractions — the elegant Achilleion Palace. Dating back to 1890, this property was the brainchild of Empress Elizabeth of Austria (also known as Sisi), who was fond of the island and visited often. Each floor is adorned with lavish decor, including bronze and stone statues of fabled Greek gods in the palace and the surrounding gardens.
After your tour, enjoy lunch back on board and a relaxing afternoon at leisure. After your tour, enjoy lunch back onboard and a relaxing afternoon at leisure.
See the birthplace of the Olympics
This morning, we’ll sail into Katakolon and enjoy scenic drives through the villages of Pelelponnese. Then, you'll have a full day at the location where the ancient Olympic Games originated — in Olympia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Surrounded by a natural setting of beauty and serenity, the archeological site dates back to the 10th century B.C., where it first became a sanctuary for the gods and a place to worship Zeus. Alongside temples, there's remains of various sporting venues from the festive games that began in 776 BC.
In the afternoon, you'll be delighted to join in on a traditional Greek lunch at the Magna Grecia, a family-owned Greek agrotourism farm. After a guided tour, sample its house made wine and olive oils while being regaled with local entertainment to boot.
Spend the day in ancient Delphi
This morning after breakfast, you'll dock on Greece's mainland coast at Itea and be transported to nearby UNESCO-listed Delphi. Once known as the center of the world by ancient Greek mythologists, Delphi has been revered as a hotspot of ancient Greek culture and archeology for centuries. You'll spend the morning on tour to enjoy its best points of interest, including the onsite museum.
In the afternoon, indulge in some more of the ship's amenities as you enjoy scenic sailing through the Corinth canal with commentary, including a later onboard lecture on Greek mythology.
Disembark the Ocean Odyssey, then behold the classical wonders of Athens
This morning, disembark the Ocean Odyssey to conclude your journey here in Greece. Today, enjoy a panoramic tour of Athens, the country's sophisticated capital. Mythology and ancient history come alive here, as you’ll see at the iconic Acropolis. It was here that Poseidon and Athena were said to have fought to determine who would be patron of the city. This was the architectural pinnacle of Athens, crowned by its breathtaking Parthenon. You’ll also visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Parliament House on Constitution Square, the Pan Athenian Stadium, and the Presidential Palace. Along the famed Panepistimiou Avenue, pass the Catholic Cathedral, Academy of Athens, the University of Athens, and the National Library. Enjoy lunch on your own, perhaps dining in the charming Plaka district, nestled at the foot of Acropolis Hill. Enjoy your afternoon at leisure in Athens, with so much to discover — from extensive shopping options to open-air markets to museums and beyond. Dinner is on your own tonight, and you're in luck: Athens restaurants are world-class, but so is its street food — at a fraction of the cost. Don't miss souvlaki, fava purée and pita, a classic Greek salad, or anything with feta cheese. Your conveniently located hotel is also just a stone’s throw from abundance of local restaurants and food stands. When you settle into your room for the evening, enjoy scenic views of either the Acropolis or Lybertus Hill.
Explore Athens on your own
You have the day at leisure to set out into the Cradle of Civilization to uncover some of its less-explored paths. If you’re looking to shop for a deal, head over to the Monastiraki flea market, the atmospheric agora of secondhand treasures. Or perhaps you’ll brush up on your ancient history at the Acropolis Museum or the Athens Archaeological Museum. Alternatively, you can relax in your hotel and enjoy its sumptuous amenities, from the rooftop swimming pool to the spa.
Back at the hotel, say goodbye to fellow travelers at your Farewell Dinner.
Fly home or stay on for your post-trip extension in Istanbul, Turkey
Following breakfast this morning, you’ll transfer to the Athens airport for your flight home. Or, continue to Istanbul, Turkey, for your post-trip extension.
Immerse yourself in the exoticism, fascinating history, and resplendent architecture of Istanbul, where Europe meets Asia along the bustling Bosphorus Strait. You’ll step into the world of Ottoman sultans at the Topkapi Palace, marvel at the towering domes and minarets of the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, and roam the endless passageways of the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Market, teeming with colorful carpets, leather goods, jewelry, and lanterns. Your three nights in this intoxicating cultural capital is the perfect way to round out your ocean expedition.
Important Note: Day-by-day itineraries are preliminary and therefore subject to change. If changes occur while on tour, you will be notified by your Cruise Director or regional expert. Please Note: Ocean cruising is not the same experience as river cruising; as such, you may experience fluctuating tides and weather patterns that may involve some rocking of your vessel. Itineraries will include all activities as planned except in extreme cases that can’t be controlled by your shipboard crew.
