Highlights of the Mediterranean
Posted on September 22, 2011 by admin
There are many cruises from Southampton to the Mediterranean, some which make ports of call at only a few destinations and others which incorporate stops in several different countries.
A cruise to the Black Sea through the Dardanelles offers the opportunity of visiting Yalta and Odessa in the eastern Mediterranean as well as Istanbul, which straddles both Asia and Europe and offers a beguiling mix of culture and cuisine.
Odessa in the Ukraine is known as the ‘Pearl of the Black Sea’. Established by Catherine the Great, the neoclassical buildings and wide tree-lined avenues and beautiful parks rival many European cities. There are a number of museums, the Opera and Ballet Theatre and the Potemkin Steps for visitors who wish to experience the rich heritage and culture of the area.
Other stops en route may include Spain, Malta and the historic port of Piraeus in Greece, close to Athens. Athens is one of Europe’s most cosmopolitan and historic cities, with the spectacular ruins of the Parthenon and Acropolis and many temples dedicated to the Greek gods of mythology.
Late cruise deals often stop at the Balearic Islands. Minorca’s strategic position in the Mediterranean, together with one of the largest natural harbours in the world at its capital Mahon, is evidenced by the cannons, moats and emplacements around the city, built to repel invasion.
Lisbon in Portugal is another ancient city which has been influenced by many different nations, with Moorish architecture alongside the 12th century monastery and Belém, the sailing point for the Portuguese adventurers in one of the most notable periods of its history.
Another popular stop for late cruise deals is at the Rock of Gibraltar which offers the chance to walk round the historic colony or watch the dolphins, whales and other marine life which live in the bay.
