Secrets of the Black Sea
Eastern Europe and Arabia
Circumnavigate the Black Sea: Turkey, Georgia, Russia, Ukraine, Romania, and Bulgaria, discovering four UNESCO World Heritage Sites along the way. Accompanied by expert leaders, explore lands with centuries upon centuries of history, rich architecture, contemporary cultures, and stunning landscapes, aboard a spacious yet intimate ship. Some of the highlights awaiting you:
Start in Istanbul, where you’ll explore the heart of Istanbul’s historic Sultanahmet District, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the 17th-century Blue Mosque and continue to the beautiful Hagia Sophia. After boarding your ship, cruise toward the Black Sea up the scenic Bosporus.
Dock in Amasya, town of red-roofed dwellings and 19th-century Ottoman-era wooden houses, set along the dramatic Yesilirmak River Gorge.
In Trabzon, a morning drive in the country-side to see the 13th- and 14th-century Byzantine Sumela Monastery, perched dramatically on a cliff face. Detailed frescoes, etched in brilliant blues, reds, and golds cover the interior.
In Batumi, savor regoional delicacies and Georgian wines during lunch at a local restaurant, and enjoy a fantastic folk performance of traditional music accompanied by energetic dances.
Ascend the Potemkin Steps of Odessa and explore the central district’s spectacular architecture, including monuments, statuary, parks, and ornate 19th-century gems.
In Romania, board a local boat to explore the Danube’s wetland habitat: over 200 species of birds, including pygmy cormorants, purple herons, white-tailed eagles, and Dalmatian pelicans.
In Histria, walk through fascinating seaside ruins, tour the new museum, and spot birds in this wetland environment.
Finally, you’ll see the oldest worked gold in the world in Varna’s archeological museum.