Day 1 | Monday

BANJUL - BAKAU, THE GAMBIA
Meet us on board at 4PM. Banjul is The Gambia’s capital city and gateway to the 700 mile Gambia River. We’ll sail the river this afternoon, but first join our optional half day tour of Banjul itself, plus the town of Bakau; known for its kachikally crocodile pool and botanic garden. Mid-afternoon we sail upstream on the Gambia River to Tendaba. Overnight docked in Tendaba.

Day 2 | Tuesday

TENDABA, THE GAMBIA
Today, we offer two optional excursions. Both begin in Tendaba, a small Muslim fishing village with a population of around 600 people. It’s reachable from our ship by motor pirogue - small canoe-like boats. In the morning we’ll walk from Tendaba to Batelling to visit the Kiang West National Park - home to many rare species of bird as well as Guinea baboons, Senegal bushbaby and marsh Mongoose. When you’re all primate-d out, we’ll jump in a safari truck heading back to the ship, via Tendaba, and passing local villages as we go. In the afternoon the excursion is to Bao Bolong Wetland Reserve - with six major bolongs (creeks) and remarkable birding and boating opportunities. Overnight docked in Tendaba.

Day 3 | Wednesday

GAMBIA RIVER – KUNTAUR - RIVER GAMBIA NATIONAL PARK, THE GAMBIA
Early morning we continue our journey upstream on the Gambia River, heading to the bustling port town, Kuntaur. This is the last inland stop navigable for ocean-going ships. Yes, even our small ship. The optional excursion this afternoon is a motor pirogue journey further inland to Baboon Island, a part of The Gambia National Park. Listen and learn as a local park ranger teaches us all about the park's flora and fauna. Then, as we drift slowly and peacefully back towards Kuntaur, keep a look out for the chimpanzees at a rehabilitation project en route. You may also spot hippos, crocodiles, Red Colobus monkeys, and more. An exceptional dance, the Kankurang, is performed on our return to Kuntaur. The Kankurang is believed to dispense justice and ward off evil spirits. Overnight docked in Kuntaur.

Day 4 | Thursday

KUNTAUR – JANJANBUREH - KAUR, THE GAMBIA
We hope you’ve slept well as we have a varied and active optional tour today. First to Janjanbureh via bus and local ferry. Janjanbureh is one of the oldest towns in The Gambia, formerly known as Georgetown. Wander the streets and take in the laid back vibes before we head back to the bus and on to our second destination: Lamin Koto. Here, you’ll see a new school in the process of being built, thanks to generous donations from Variety Cruises and our clients. From here we’ll visit the mysterious stones of Wassu, a sacred burial ground thousands of years old, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After lunch we sail downstream to the small fishing village, Kaur. Explore and see how local Gambians live here today. Lastly, join us in the evening for our signature Captain’s Farewell Dinner as we sail downstream, back towards Banjul.

Day 5 | Friday

KUNTA KINTEH ISLAND - BANJUL, THE GAMBIA
One more day in The Gambia, with lots more to learn and discover. This morning we anchor at Kunta Kinteh Island. Strategically located in the middle of the Gamibia River, the island has a dark history in the slave trade, the story of which has been told to the world via author Alex Haley’s book, Roots. A local guide will teach us about the history, after which you’ll have some time to walk around before we head back to Banjul. Tonight we host Gambian Night on board, complete with a concert performed on the kora, a west African string instrument. Overnight at sea, heading towards Dakar.

Day 6 | Saturday

DAKAR, SENEGAL
Early morning arrival in Dakar. After breakfast, we will take you in an optional excursion to Goree Island and Dakar city tour, an exploratory adventure of Dakar surroundings, inviting you to discover the traces of slave trading, and its transformation into today’s African modernity. The history makes room for the present development. Lunch outside the ship. Returning to the ship in late afternoon and preparing for dinner. After dinner, we set sail southward towards the Saloum River Delta. Overnight at sea, cruising south wards along the coast.

Day 7 | Sunday

DJIFFER/SENEGAL – BANJUL, THE GAMBIA
Dolphins, crocodiles, turtles and manatees. Keep your eyes peeled for all of these and more as we venture into the Sine-Saloum Delta, Senegal. A UNESCO biosphere reserve, this important birding area is home to around 200 different bird species including flamingos, pelicans and raptors. From here, join our optional excursion to JOAL FADIOUTH, an island built on and of clam shells. Come afternoon, we begin our sail to Banjul, The Gambia. Overnight in Banjul.

Day 8 | Monday

BANJUL, THE GAMBIA
Early morning arrival in Banjul. Join your fellow adventures - who we’re sure are now friends - for one last breakfast before our trip comes to an end.

Day 1

NAPLES, ITALY - MOUNT VESUVIUS
Embarkation at the scenic port of Naples begins promptly at 14:00. After the essential safety drill conducted by our dedicated VARIETY CRUISES crew, join us for a delightful welcome cocktail and dinner. Join our optional excursion in Pompeii and learn about what happened during the catastrophic eruption of 79 A.D., how entire cities were preserved in ash, and why Mount Vesuvius remains one of the most dangerous volcanoes in the world today, despite its current calm appearance. Spend the night in Naples, marking an enchanting star to your cruise adventure.

Day 2

CAPRI - CAMPI FLEGREI
Our morning journey, set against the stunning backdrop of the Tyrrhenian Sea, brings us to the illustrious island of Capri. With its breathtaking vistas, azure skies, and perfect climate, Capri is truly the "jewel" of the Bay of Naples. Learn about Campi Flegrei and discover why this area near Naples is not just a volcano—but a supervolcano, comparable in scale and potential to Yellowstone, and what makes it one of Europe’s most closely monitored geological zones. Upon anchoring, join our optional half-day excursion on the island. In the late afternoon, we bid farewell to Capri and set sail for Lipari. Before dinner, participate in one of our most popular onboard events: the Cocktail Demonstration. Led by our skilled Bar Manager, this hour-long session features the creation of two signature cocktails, complete with recipes to recreate at home!

Day 3

LIPARI - STROMBOLI
After a delightful breakfast, our ship anchors at Lipari, the largest of the Aeolian Islands. Rich in mythology and stunning scenery, Lipari is irresistibly charming. Join our optional half-day tour from the pier: a scenic coach ride to Quattrocchi for panoramic views, then to Quattropani with its picturesque church and vistas of Salina. After the tour, enjoy free time in the village for lunch. Learn why this region is far more volcanic than the rest of Europe and how tectonic forces shaped its dramatic landscapes. The afternoon is yours for personal exploration and relaxation. Dinner awaits you back on board as we bid adieu to Lipari and set course for the enchanting shores of Taormina. Before we arrive, we will cruise by the impressive eruptions of Stromboli — with our volcanologist, George Kourounis, on deck to guide the experience. He’ll explain how Stromboli works, why it has been erupting every hour for the past 2,000 years, and share his experience climbing the volcano while filming Angry Planet.

Day 4

TAORMINA
In the morning, we arrive at the captivating shores of Taormina. Join our optional tour to explore its charming narrow alleyways, fifteenth-century Palazzo Corvaja, and the remarkable Greek amphitheater with its exceptional acoustics. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along Corso Umberto, a bustling pedestrian street with upscale boutiques, often called the "Sicilian Saint Tropez." Lunch is at your leisure, allowing time for personal exploration and culinary delights. At 7:30 PM, join our included Wine Tasting Experience, featuring a selection of Italian and Greek wines, before our four-course dinner on board. Return to the ship for dinner as we anchor for the night, surrounded by Taormina's enchanting beauty.

Day 5

CATANIA - MOUNT ETNA
The depart from enchanting Taormina early in the morning, heading to Catania. After a hearty breakfast, join our optional full-day excursion to Mount Etna-Italy’s most famous volcano. Explore diverse landscapes, from bustling towns to citrus orchards, vineyards, and ancient lava fields. Learn about the region's volcanic history from George Kourounis and folklore while visiting picturesque villages. Ascend to 2000 meters to stroll around the Silvestri craters or enjoy local delicacies like honey. The tour concludes at a renowned winery on Mount Etna's slopes, where you'll sample exquisite wines and savor Sicily's rich flavors.

Day 6

SYRACUSE
Upon our early morning arrival in Syracuse, explore the enchanting "White City" after a satisfying breakfast. Opt for our guided tour to delve deeper into Syracuse's rich history and cultural treasures. Lunch is at your discretion, allowing you to savor local flavors at your own pace. The afternoon is yours to enjoy, whether wandering charming streets, relaxing seaside, or delving into Syracuse's captivating past. Before dinner, our chef will share the recipe for Pesto a la Trapanese, a perfect addition to your home gatherings. Tonight, enjoy our Captain’s Italian Night Dinner with delicious dishes and music. Around midnight, we bid farewell to Syracuse and sail for the enchanting shores of Gozo Island.

Day 7

GOZO ISLAND - VALLETTA
Morning brings our enchanting arrival at Gozo Island, beloved for its awe-inspiring Ggantija temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back 5500 years. Enjoy a revitalizing swim in Malta's serene waters before reaching Gozo at noon. Here, explore the island's treasures and arrange a leisurely lunch. For airport or hotel transfers, our Cruise Manager is available to assist; please provide your preferred transfer time at least 24 hours in advance. In the afternoon, we bid farewell to Gozo and head for Valetta, Malta's majestic capital. Indulge in a delectable dinner served onboard as we glide through tranquil waters.

Day 8

VALLETTA, MALTA
We arrive in Valletta early in the morning. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast with fellow travelers. Your Chief Experience Officer will be available to assist with your pre-booked transfers. We eagerly anticipate welcoming you back aboard one of our VARIETY CRUISES around the globe!

Day 1 | Friday

ATHENS, MARINA ZEAS (PIRAEUS)
Embarkation at Marina Zea in Athens takes place between 2-3pm. After settling into your cabin, enjoy a welcome drink before a relaxed departure toward Corinth and the impressive crossing of the Corinth Canal. The evening features a welcome cocktail dinner on board, offering the perfect opportunity to meet fellow travelers as the journey begins. Overnight at sea.

Day 2 | Saturday

SAMI (KEFALONIA), GREECE
Wake up in the Ionian Sea and begin the day with a refreshing swim in a quaint bay of Kefalonia (weather permitting), famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters. After lunch on board, arrive in the charming harbor town of Sami. Stroll through the colorful streets at your leisure or join the included shore excursion to discover the island’s natural highlights, including the magical Melissani Cave. The excursion concludes at a hidden local venue for a sweet tasting of traditional Kefalonian desserts. Enjoy dinner ashore at one of the local tavernas. Overnight in port.

Day 3 | Sunday

SIVOTA & CORFU, GREECE
Anchor near the stunning bays of Sivota for a morning swim (weather permitting), surrounded by lush greenery and crystal-clear waters. Lunch is served on board. In the early afternoon, arrive in Corfu, often called “The Princess of the Ionian.” Join the included guided excursion through Corfu’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, shaped by Venetian, French, and British influences, or explore at your own pace. Dinner is at leisure ashore, giving you the chance to sample Corfiot specialties in one of the island’s charming restaurants. Overnight in port.

Day 4 | Monday

SARANDA, ALBANIA
Arrive early morning in Saranda, your gateway to Albania’s stunning southern coast. Spend the day relaxing by the sea, strolling along the promenade, or join an optional half-day excursion to Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Lunch is on your own ashore. In the early afternoon, depart toward Montenegro, enjoying dinner on board as we sail north along the Adriatic coast. Overnight at sea.

Day 5 | Tuesday

BAR & STARI BAR, MONTENEGRO
Arrive in Bar shortly before lunch on board. You can join an optional afternoon excursion to explore the region’s history and culture, including a visit to a traditional olive mill and the historic Stari Bar, followed by a traditional dinner in the atmospheric old town. After dinner, depart toward Dubrovnik. Overnight at sea.

Day 6 | Wednesday

DUBROVNIK, CROATIA
Arrive in the magnificent city of Dubrovnik, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Adriatic.” Surrounded by imposing medieval walls and overlooking the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik is one of the most beautiful and best-preserved historic cities in the world. The day is free to wander through the enchanting Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or alternatively to join our optional guided walking tour featuring baroque churches, historic palaces, and lively squares that create a unique atmosphere, as well as the iconic city walls offering spectacular views over the terracotta rooftops and the shimmering coastline. In the evening, return to the ship for dinner on board, followed by an overnight stay in port, allowing you to enjoy Dubrovnik’s magical ambiance after sunset.

Day 7 | Thursday

KORCULA, CROATIA
Arrive in Korčula, often referred to as “Little Dubrovnik.” Weather permitting, enjoy a morning swim in the island’s pristine waters before lunch on board. After lunch, explore the enchanting Old Town with a local guide, uncovering its medieval streets, legends, and hidden corners. Continue to a family-run winery, where you’ll discover the island’s winemaking traditions, tour the historic cellar, and enjoy a tasting of signature wines paired with local delicacies such as prosciutto, sheep’s cheese, and fresh bread. Dinner is served on board as we sail overnight toward Split, bringing this extraordinary journey to a close. Overnight at sea. Important note: Our ship is occasionally on anchor; in this case we will serve dinner onboard, while lunch will be ashore at guests’ own arrangements.

Day 8 | Friday

SPLIT, CROATIA
Arrive in Split in the morning and enjoy breakfast on board before disembarking at 09:00 to begin your exploration of this historic Adriatic city. As your journey through the Ionian and Adriatic comes to a close, the memories of turquoise bays, sun-drenched islands, historic towns, and charming coastal villages will stay with you long after you’ve returned home. Thank you for sailing with us, and we hope to welcome you on board again soon!

Day 1 | Friday

ATHENS, MARINA ZEAS (PIRAEUS) - CAPE SOUNION
Athens (2pm - 3pm) - Cape Sounion All aboard! Our exploration begins as we head from Athens to Cape Sounion. As the sun sets on our first day of adventure, enjoy an al fresco, get-to-know-each-other dinner under the ancient Greek Temple of Poseidon, Cape Sounion. As night falls, we start our sail to Ikaria. Overnight at sea.

Day 2 | Saturday

IKARIA
Wake up in paradise: aka Seychelles Beach, Ikaria. Surrounded by craggy rocks, the beach is best accessed by boat (luckily you’ve chosen to cruise with Variety!) Enjoy your first of many swim stops before we sail onwards to Ikaria’s quaint port. Hike the wildlife, take a dip in thermal spas, join a family cooking class, or visit an ancient village. You’ll soon realise this is an island like no other. Fun fact: locals here live an average of 10 years longer than elsewhere in Greece. Overnight in Ikaria.

Day 3 | Sunday

PATMOS - LIPSI
Today we’ll voyage from Ikaria to Patmos to Lipsi. Patmos is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites and is often considered divine. As we sail onwards to Lipsi, enjoy lunch al fresco before diving into the glittering sea. We also invite you to join our on board tasting of Lipsi’s famous wine, Aposperiti. This elusive bottle is produced only on the island. You can thank your lucky grapes - and us! - later. Evening at leisure, overnight in Lipsi.

Day 4 | Monday

KALYMNOS
Early morning sail to Kalymnos, but not without a swim stop on our way. Simple, authentic and packed to the shores with hiking routes, Kalymnos is a utopia for modern adventurers. It’s also home to the famous Greek sponge divers. Join us to meet the locals who harvest them, and learn all about the process from reef to market. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure; relax with a coffee, hike one of the famous island trails or - and we recommend this one - visit the stunning Esperidon fjord. Overnight in Kalymnos.

Day 5 | Tuesday

LEVITHA - AMORGOS
From the Dodacanese to the Cyclades. Destination Amorgos, with a stop at Levitha island. The grand total of people living on Levitha is four. Yes, you read that right. The dedicated family raise animals and run a restaurant for visiting yachts - dine on their freshly-grilled fish. Trust us, you won’t regret it. In the afternoon, we sail onwards to Amorgo where Luc Besson’s movie, Big Blue, was shot. The island will transport you to the past with its authentic, laid-back villages. Evening at leisure in the mediaeval capital, overnight in Amorgos.

Day 6 | Wednesday

AMORGOS - KOUFONISSIA - IRAKLIA
Before we set sail today, we’ll stop at Panagia Chozoviotissa - a monastery carved into the dramatic sea-facing cliffs and bursting with significant ancient heirlooms. Then on to Koufonisia, a playground for water-lovers packed with caves and rock pools accessible only by boat. Jump off deck and snorkel, kayak or paddle board to explore them. Our afternoon cruise passes scenic Schinoussa to reach the tiny island of Iraklia, protected by Natura 2000 and offering incredible mountainous footpaths. Take a walk along them for awe-inspiring views. Enjoy laid-back Greek island life at leisure this evening. Overnight in port.

Day 7 | Thursday

SERIFOS
It’s the penultimate day, but it’s one to remember. We’ll sail to Serifos and start with a swim at a remote beach. Refuel with a barbecue on board then on to Chora, the island’s castle-village. Sit back at a cafe, indulge in souvenir shopping at the boutique stores, join us at a winery, or show off your creative side at the island’s pottery studio. We’ll enjoy a special dinner this evening: a chance to remember and reminisce about the hidden gems of Greece. Midnight sail back to Athens.

Day 8 | Friday

ATHENS - MARINA ZEAS (PIRAEUS)
Athens, Greece (8.30-9am) Breakfast, disembarkation, and a chance to swap contact details with your fellow explorers, who we’re sure have become friends. With new islands explored, where to next? Find all our cruise itineraries here, and we hope to sea you on board again soon!