7 Nights Malta to Sicily Cruise via the Aeolian Islands

Private transfer will bring you to the port of Valetta, where the Variety Voyager will be waiting. Embarkation is at 3 p.m., but you can always explore this walled capital city if you arrive early. Founded in the 16th-century, stroll the hilly streets lined with magnificent baroque architecture, including palaces and churches. You might pop into a museum to learn more about its rich history or take a walk along the promenade. It’s lined with many cafes and wine bars where you can relax with a view. Once you’ve boarded the ship, enjoy a welcome drink, introductions to the crew and your fellow passengers.

We’ll depart Valletta for Gozo Island this morning, believed to be the isle of Calypso in Homer’s Odyssey, arriving after lunch. Along the way, take advantage of the first swim stop in the stunning cobalt waters that lie off the island’s postcard-perfect beaches. An optional excursion to explore its highlights includes the Cathedral Museum, the citadel and baroque cathedral, St. George Basilica, and Our Lady of Ta Pinu Basilica. Before returning to the ship, a short wine tasting will be hosted too. You’ll overnight at sea as we sail toward your next destination, Syracuse on the island of Sicily in Italy.

• Optional Excursion Tour of Gozo Island

Sailing into the port of Syracuse early this morning, you can join us for an optional tour that will bring you to many impressive sites. Explore the remarkable Greek theater, elliptical Roman amphitheater, the Temple of Apollo, Fountain of Aretusa, the Archaeological Museum, and Cathedral, which includes the ruins of the famous Temple of Athena, a hexastyle Doric temple built in the 5th-century BC. Another optional excursion this afternoon will bring you to the southeast of Sicily to visit the incredibly well-preserved baroque town of Noto. Finally, we’ll depart Syracuse late this evening, cruising toward the Aeolians, spending the night at sea.

• Optional Excursion Tour of Syracuse

Our first stop in the Aeolian Islands is just off the north coast of Sicily. Lipari is the largest in the archipelago, with its volcanic rock setting referred to by the great poet Homer as a “wall of bronze.” Archaeological evidence shows there have been settlements here dating back to 1700 BC. Today you’ll find a bustling port with a 17th-century cathedral perched just above. If you’re up for the optional excursion this morning, you’ll witness ancient tombstones and Neolithic stones, ruins of Roman villas and Greek walls. Then, explore at your own pace or unwind on one of the many beautiful beaches.

• Optional Excursion Tour of Lipari

After spending the night in Lipari, you’ll continue cruising to Vulcano Island, another volcanic island in the archipelago renowned for its mud baths and extraordinary crater that’s considered a must-see. It can be reached on foot in just over an hour and is not overly physically demanding. After reboarding, sail to Panarea, the smallest and chicest of the Aeolians, arriving in the afternoon to the only developed area of the island with shops, bars, and eateries no more than a 5-minute walk away. Later cruise toward Catania, passing Stromboli Island slowly so you’ll be able to take in views of the spectacular lava eruptions.

Upon our arrival to Catania, situated at the base of Mount Etna, you can join an optional excursion to visit the active volcano at Sicily’s highest point. Along the way, learn all about it from a resident volcanologist – you’ll be happy to know that while it continues to erupt today, it follows a route that nearly always avoids the cities and villages below. In the afternoon, explore on your own or join an optional walking tour that features the highlights of Catania like the 16th-century Monastero dei Benedettini, San Nicolo l’Arena, and Villa Bellini Park, where you can take in a fabulous panoramic view.

• Optional Excursions Tours of Mount Etna & Catania

This morning explore the hilltop town of Taormina on an optional tour or discover it at your own pace. Stroll the winding medieval streets for glimpses of gardens hidden behind stone walls. Some of the highlights include lovely squares, duomos, and palazzos like the 10th-century Palazzo Corvaja, the magnificently restored 17th-century Santa Caterina Church, and the town’s narrowest street, the Vicolo Stretto. A guided tour of the ancient Greek theater is included and offers an awe-inspiring view of the sea. This afternoon, browse the shops and other sights in the city before enjoying a farewell dinner onboard, overnighting at sea.

• Optional Excursion Tour of Taormina

From Taormina, we’ll cruise back to Valletta early this morning. One last breakfast will be served on the ship, a good time for farewells to new friends made. Disembarkation is at 9 a.m. If you’d like to extend your stay here and enjoy more of Malta, our travel experts will be happy to help you make those arrangements. Otherwise, you’ll be met by private transfer so that you can begin your journey home.