Name: 29 Night Mediterranean Cruise
Brand: MSC Cruises
SKU: 93592
Price: 3002 USD
Availability: InStock

Explore and book MSC Cruises 29 Night Mediterranean Cruise on the MSC Opera departing from Cape Town, South Africa on Apr 14, 2026 and ending in Sharm-el-Sheikh, Egypt on May 13, 2026 Sail to Cape Town, South Africa, Suez Canal, Egypt, Fort Dauphin, Madagascar, Rhodes, Greece, La Possession, Reunion, Port Louis, Mauritius, Genoa, Italy, Durban, South Africa, Heraklion, Crete, Greece, Aqaba, Jordan, Port Victoria, Seychelles, Sharm-el-Sheikh, Egypt

Cape Town, South Africa

Where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet, Cape Town presents a majestic backdrop of Table Mountain and a vibrant urban life. Experience the history, multicultural cuisine, vineyards, and natural beauty that make this South African city a must-visit cruise destination.

Durban, South Africa

A bustling port city, Durban on South Africa's east coast is renowned for its African, Indian, and colonial influences. With its golden beaches, marine wonders, and vibrant markets, a cruise to Durban promises a multicultural experience.

La Possession, Reunion

Anchored off the Indian Ocean, La Possession on Reunion Island is a fusion of French culture and tropical allure. With its volcanic landscapes, lush forests, and Creole essence, this destination offers cruisers a mix of adventure and leisure.

Port Louis, Mauritius

The vibrant capital of Mauritius, Port Louis boasts a multicultural tapestry, colonial architecture, and bustling markets. Nestled against a backdrop of mountains, it serves as a window into the island's diverse history and culture.

Antsiranana (diego Suarez) Madagascar

Fort Dauphin, Madagascar

Fort Dauphin, located in the southern part of Madagascar, is a destination that combines rugged wilderness with a laid-back coastal charm. As you cruise to Fort Dauphin, you'll be greeted by dramatic landscapes, from rolling hills to vast coastal dunes. Nature enthusiasts can explore unique ecosystems and observe diverse wildlife. The town itself offers a relaxed atmosphere, with opportunities to savor local cuisine and visit the colorful markets. For a more secluded and nature-centric cruise experience, Fort Dauphin is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

Port Victoria, Seychelles

Embark on a journey to Port Victoria, the vibrant capital of the Seychelles archipelago. Offering a blend of Creole culture, colorful markets, and proximity to white-sand beaches, Port Victoria ensures a tropical paradise experience. Cruising to this port offers cultural insights, island hopping, and Indian Ocean beauty.

Aqaba, Jordan

Jordan's window to the Red Sea, Aqaba offers historical sites like the ancient city of Petra and world-class diving in coral-filled waters. A cruise to this port combines the allure of ancient history with marine wonder.

Sharm-el-Sheikh, Egypt

Quad Biking Tour in Sharm El Sheikh Desert
Sea Scope Semi Submarine Sea Trip 2 Hours With Transfer - Sharm El Sheikh
Blue Hole and Dahab Canyon By Bus With Lunch and Camel Reid - Sharm ElSheikh
Mount Sinai Climb and St Catherine Tour from Sharm El Sheikh
Scuba Diving 2 Dives from the Boat
Mount Sinai Climb and St Catherine Tour from Sharm el Sheikh
Excursion to the White Island & Ras Mohammed National Park from Sharm El Sheikh
Sharm trip: Sunset Quad Bike Safari and Bedouin Dinner

Suez Canal, Egypt

Suez Canal Scenery
Three Continents in One Cruise

Rhodes, Greece

See the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights
Speculate About the Ruins of the Colossus
Hike the Acropolis in Lindos
Visit Rhodes’ First Mosque
Walk Peacefully Through the Valley of Butterflie

Heraklion, Crete, Greece

Private Journey - Chania Old Town and Anoskeli Winery
Private Journey - Akrotiri and Chania Old Town
Cretan Cooking Class - Cooking with Olive Oil
Jeep Tour in the White Mountains
Knossos Palace and Heraklion Town
Knossos Palace of Minos and Heraklion Free Time
Chania Botanical Park & Chania Town
Panoramic Drive and Chania Old Town
Kournas, Arkadi Monastery & Rethymnon

Genoa, Italy

Genoa City Sightseeing Hop On Hop Off Bus
A Taste of Genoa
Private Panoramic Genoa and Local Tastings Tour
Private Walking in Genoa
Best of Barcelona, Marseilles, Civitavecchia (Rome), and Genoa Package
Best of Civitavecchia (Rome), Palma De Mallorca, and Genoa Package
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29 Night Mediterranean Cruise

Egypt & Red Sea

Africa

Mediterranean

Europe

While away a few enjoyable hours of game play at the Arcade on board the ship. Pit your wits and skill against those of your friends in any number of typical arcade options, including video games, pinball and more. Great fun guaranteed.

Arcade

You’ll need to combine hand-to-eye coordination with a deft, light touch to get around our entertaining open-air mini golf course on board the ship. Get together with your friends and family to see who has what it takes to be crowned the Mini Golf King or Queen.

Mini Golf

Med Pearl Casino

Tennis Tournament - if you've got a killer backhand then why not enter our onboard tennis tournament? It might not be Wimbledon but it'll serve up a great workout and possibly a taste of glory, tooSoccer Tournament - can you kick it? Yes you can! Sign up for the onboard soccer tournament and show off your skills. Your team needs you, so get involved. Volleyball Tournament - unleash your competitive side in our very own onboard volleyball tournament. Quick reactions and impressive reach could lead you and your team to glory! Basketball Tournament - ready to shoot some hoops? Then enter our onboard basketball tournament. Get involved and prepare for glory! Ping Pong Tournament - pick up a paddle and prepare for battle! The ping pong tournament is on and you're invited. Ready for the challenge? See you there! Table Soccer Tournament - if you're a fan of football in the miniaturized form known as foosball why not enter today's tournament? Just remember the golden rule - no spinning!

Sports Tournaments

II Patio Bar

Aroma Coffee Bar

Cotton Club

Byblos Discoteca

Gelateria Italiana

La Cabala Piano Bar

Unwind in the refined atmosphere of this Lounge Bar—a haven for leisurely moments with friends. Revel in comfort and style as you savor your favorite drink in this elegant space.

Lounges

Lo Spinnaker Bar

Whether you’re a night owl or simply fancy a tantalizing night cap before turning in, our night bars are there to cater to your needs. Choose from a range of innovative alchemist cocktails, created to suit those moments when only the extraordinary will do.

Night Bars

Piazza di Spagna

Sip on a glass of something refreshing – a cocktail, wine, beer or soft drink – in ultimate style at one of our Outdoor Bars, located both poolside and on the highest decks of the ships. Teaming glorious ocean views with enjoying a delicious drink has never been easier.

Outdoor Bars

Vitamin Bar

Sottovento Pub

Our main restaurants invite you on a journey around the world’s cuisines, offering exceptional international dishes every day of your cruise. Check out the Elegant Dinner to try a signature dish by two Michelin-starred chef Ramón Freixa.

International Dining

Indulge your sweet tooth at the Dessert Corner, a cornucopia of deliciously sweet treats that will have your mouth watering. Enter the magical world of fine patisserie, crafted with love by our team of talented bakers and pastry chefs with meticulous attention to detail.

Dessert Corner

Get set to be wowed by the creativity of our talented chefs at the Daily Special Corner. Wrap your taste buds around a different specialty every day of your cruise for an unforgettable culinary surprise.

Daily Special Corner

Enticing aromas and mouth-watering flavors are served up at our Ethnic Corner. Choose your personal favorite from a range of delectable dishes, hand-selected from every corner of the world, from Asian to Indian – and everything in between.

Ethnic Corner

Kids' Corner features a dedicated buffet line exclusively for kids and their families, offering a playful and relaxed dining experience. With a menu that changes daily, young cruisers can enjoy healthy and fun meals designed to excite their taste buds. This family-focused space ensures mealtime is as enjoyable as the adventures onboard.

Kids Area

Come to the Carvery for deliciously tender, juicy and flavorful roast meat specialties that will please your palate any day of the week. Enjoy the theater of watching your personal favorites being carved right in front of your eyes especially for you.

Meat Carvery

La Caravella Restaurant

Le Vele Buffet Restaurant

L'Approdo Restaurant

Check out the Pasta Station for authentic Italian pasta just like mama used to make. Discover a new selection of delicious flavor combinations every single day to satisfy even the most discerning palate.

Pasta Station

As one of the healthiest diets on the planet, Mediterranean food takes center stage at our main restaurants, tempting you with French, Italian and Spanish cuisine. Don’t miss the Elegant Dinner with a signature dish our Michelin-starred chef Ramón Freixa

Mediterranean Dining

We believe everyone’s special on an MSC cruise ship which is why we provide tailored menus and solutions to meet everyone’s dining requirements

Special Diets and Menus

For those unexpected hunger pangs, the Take-Away Station is your go-to spot for quick and casual dining, offering popular fast foods. Enjoy a convenient snack whenever you need it during your cruise adventure.







Take Away Station

The Wellness Corner caters to health-conscious cruisers with a menu of light, nutritious dishes full of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Designed to support wellbeing without sacrificing taste, it’s an ideal spot for guilt-free meals. Great for grabbing your daily dose of veggies and maintaining balance while at sea.



Wellness Corner

You’d normally have to travel to New York to see the top-rated shows, but thanks to our Broadway-style theaters you can enjoy entertainment with an international line-up of artists without having to leave the ship. Take your pick, there’s sure to be a show you love.                                      

Broadway Theater

It’s all white for a night with dazzling décor and costumes to suit the theme, plus a special performance starring our theater cast.

White Party

The Junior Club inspires connection and cooperation among 7 to 11-year-olds, through a wide variety of activities. Highlights range from Masterchef at Sea Juniors and Dorebro Sport competitions to our Fire & Ice live video game. Do you like acting, dancing or singing? Enjoy the thrill of filming with the Kelly & Kloe On Board Green Screen Experience!

Junior Club 7-11

With the Young Club, kids from 12 to 14 years old can dive into a world of discovery, involvement and interaction.Each day holds the promise of new experiences, with a dedicated programme of sport tournaments, hi-tech games and lots of other fun activities. And of course, every day also brings opportunities to make new friends.

Young Club (12-14)

Teens aged 15-17 are in for an unforgettable cruise experience. Dive into the Teen Club's action-packed world, featuring sports, dance-offs, social games, and thrilling Wii, Xbox, and PS4 tournaments.



Teen Club 15-17

Set sail for a day of creativity with the LEGO® Experience On Board. Your family can enjoy a full day of LEGO-themed activities, providing endless hours of building and creating for the kids while fostering family fun.

Lego Experience

The Mini Club, designed for children aged 3 to 6 and in partnership with LEGO®, is a hub of creativity and fun. With a wide range of activities and the exciting Doremi Family Disco, it’s a place where young imaginations soar and families create lasting memories together.

Mini Club 3-6

Every MSC Cruise is full of fun and discovery for kids of every age, starting with all the activities organised just for them and included in your fare. With a packed program of sports, games, competitions, parties and more, your children will enjoy endless discoveries with their new friends.Children can discover a world of their own thanks to 5 dedicated clubs for ages ranging from 0 to 17 years old, where they are looked after by our trained, multilingual personnel, certified for safeguarding children.

Kids Clubs

For parents of toddlers under 3 years old, this partnership with Chicco ensures a safe and enjoyable play area. Leave your little ones with the MSC Babycare staff or join in the fun with special Chicco toys and rhythmic activities designed to spark curiosity.



Baby Club 0-3

Enjoying time off on your cruise doesn’t need to mean letting your fitness routine slide, so gear up and rendezvous with the power walking and jogging track on deck to get your daily exercise fix while also savoring outstanding ocean views.

Power Walking Track

Fitted with authentic TechnoGym® equipment and featuring panoramic ocean views, the onboard gym is the place to be for all those who take their fitness regime seriously. Hone your physique with a full set of TechnoGym® apparatus every day of your cruise to look better than ever before.

Gym by Technogym

Indulge in the ultimate relaxation at the MSC Aurea Spa, a sanctuary of Balinese tranquility. Offering a variety of signature treatments, a thermal area, and beauty services, it’s your escape to rejuvenation and luxury.

MSC Aurea Spa

Get a lasting sensation of absolute well being that will accompany you well beyond your cruise. All our ships are equipped with a Thermal Area where you can enjoy a soothing sauna, a relaxing steam or an invigorating whirlpool bath.

Thermal Area

Relaxing on one of our ships will do wonders for you, but we also have a few secrets on board to help you look and feel even better. Make the most of our range of safe and effective Anti-Ageing treatments and return from your cruise visibly rejuvenated.

Medi Spa Center

You can enjoy the expertise of highly specialized staff in aesthetic treatments to offer you excellent results and improve the relaxing effects of your cruise. Customize your cruise with the best treatments for your body. Unwind and feel fantastic!

Beauty Salon

Refresh your look with a new hairstyle! There are different packages which include a personalized shampoo & conditioning mask, a haircut and a single process color treatment. Leave the salon styled and ready for a great evening onboard.

Hair Salon

A refined style, precious materials and attention to detail make MSC Opera a cruise ship that really is something to sing about! Built along more classic lines than her sisters in the Musica and Fantasia classes, making a special atmosphere onboard while enabling you to visit those destinations that are inaccessible to larger vessels.

MSC Cruises

MSC Opera

This tour is made easier by riding a pedelec - an electrically powered bicycle which assists the rider's pedal power at speeds of up to 25 km/h. Leaving the port, you'll pedal around the harbour basin past Genoa Aquarium and the Old Harbour (Lanterna) all the way to the Porta del Molo. Cycling through the atmospheric narrow "caruggi" streets, you'll come to the Old City Gate (Porta Soprana) and Christopher Columbus' House, located just outside the ancient medieval city walls. From there, you'll continue to Genoa Cathedral and the Piazza De Ferrari, where you'll have a first short stop to admire the beauty of this magnificent square and the nearby Doge's Palace, one of the oldest buildings in the city. Photo break over, you'll leave the old city to visit the famously picturesque village of Boccadasse, where you'll have the opportunity to enjoy a leisurely coffee or a swim from the small but charming beach, surrounded by cafés. Suitably refreshed, you'll cycle back towards the city centre, but turn north before getting there to access a magnificent viewpoint with panoramic vistas of the city. The partly steep and winding road will lead you to the Terrazze Capolinea Funicular Railway Station for a quick coffee break before you make your descent back to the city and port.

Short but sweet, this entertaining tour takes you off the ship to discover the city of Genoa by Segway®, a great means of transport that's not only fun and very green, but also makes for leisurely urban exploration without having to get footsore in the process. Your guided roundup of Genoa's main sights takes you through the town's historical centre and includes views of the 13th- to 16th-century Doges' Palace, the birthplace of Christopher Columbus and Porta Soprana, the best-known section of Genoa's remaining city walls. Your Segway® tour then rolls to a close with your return to the ship.

Leave the ship for a few hours and instead check yourself in to a thoroughly edutational and family-friendly outing for a behind-the-scenes look at Italy's largest aquarium, the Acquario di Genova. Built to coincide with the Genoa Expo in 1992, which in turn commemorated the 500th anniversary of the New World being discovered by Columbus, the aquarium is home to a vast collection of marine wildlife. After a short ferry transfer to the old part of Genoa and the Acquario, you and your family can first enjoy an unguided visit of the various tanks that provide a habitat for tropical fish, sharks, natural coral, penguins and dolphins. At a prearranged time, you'll then proceed on an expertly guided "behind-the-scenes" tour of the facility, during which you'll get to see the on-site laboratories, maintenance and plankton farming activities as well as how the animals are cared for and reared. And among the tank backstage areas, highlights include the jellyfish and dolphin enclosures. Your time at the Expo site wraps up with a little more time to explore on your own before the boat returns you to the ship.

This appealing half-day outing will acquaint you the rich history of Genoa's aristocracy, as showcased in the splendid palaces found along the city's Via Garibaldi. As one of Genoa's oldest sections, Via Garibaldi dates back to the Renaissance era with resplendent edifices that are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You'll first meet your guide and then stroll along the time-honored street with inside visits planned at the richly stuccoes Palazzo Nicolosio Lomellino and Palazzo Bianco. Constructed between 1530 and 1540, Palazzo Bianco hosts key art collections by old masters from the 12th- to 17th-century, including Van Dyck, Rubens, Paolo Veronese and forms part of the Le Strade Nuove Museums. These brushes with history will be followed by a break to taste some of the city's world-famous pesto sauce at Palazzo Cattaneo-Adorno before you can enjoy some leisure time on your own. The walk back to Port Antico and your cruise ship then brings the outing to a close.

Milan is the most famous town for fashion and shopping, here you will immerse into its famous designer shops including Gucci, Armani, and Versace, and for its stylish ambience. Take advantage of this tour to have good chance for window browsing and soak up the atmosphere of this famous city. Leave the port for a 2-hour coach drive to Milan and enjoy free time in the city with some good shopping opportunity. At the fixed time, you will meet your coach again to drive back to Genoa port and to your cruise ship.

Situated on the shores of the Red Sea in the south of the country, the bustling city of Aqaba is Jordan's only seaport. A short 15-minute drive by coach will take you south to a beach club for some leisurely time off the ship. A drink will be served to welcome you at the club, after which a few hours will be yours to do whatever you please. Enjoy the resort amenities as you relax or swim in the pool or go for a refreshing dip in the Red Sea. This fun-packed experience of sun, sea and sand comes to a pleasant close with your return journey to the port and your ship.

Leave the port for a 1-hour 15-minute drive to Wadi Rum and feel the romance of the Arabian Desert. In this timeless and beautiful valley rises Wadi Rum, amidst sand dunes that shimmer across the rose-red desert sand. The Wadi Rum area has been inhabited since prehistoric periods and geologists have found slabs of rock with inscriptions in early Tahamudic writings throughout the valley. After your arrival at Wadi Rum, you will board a 4WD vehicle for a two-hour drive through magnificent desert scenery. Your next stop will be a desert camp where you will enjoy Arabic tea in a traditional Bedouin tent. Return to the port.

If it's rose-red in colour, situated in the middle of the Jordanian desert and reputed to be half as old as time itself, the destination of this all-day excursion can only be the amazing ancient city of Petra. Having laid hidden for centuries, Johann Ludwig Burckhardt, a Swiss explorer rediscovered this jewel of early engineering in 1812 and then unveiled it to the rest of the world. Situated about a 2-hour coach ride to the north of Aqaba, the city was hewn out of the solid rock by Nabatean Arabs more than 2.000 years ago and served as their capital city. These clever Arab architects even succeeded in bringing fresh water to their town using a sophisticated water conduit system, which turned the city into an artificial oasis. Your exploration of this UNESCO World Heritage Site begins with a walk through the narrow "Siq", a stunning natural canyon that winds its way through towering rocks. As you emerge from the canyon, the bright daylight will reveal Petra in all its rose-hued glory. Carved into the cliff and rising several storeys high, the surprisingly well-preserved colonnaded structures have more than stood the test of time. The guided tour of the site will also include the large amphitheatre and the royal tombs. To cap off your incredible sightseeing tour of this ancient city, a delicious lunch is included in the excursion in a nearby hotel. The scenic return journey in the comfort of your air-conditioned coach will bring this fabulous outing to a leisurely close.

Located some way to the north of Aqaba in the middle of the Jordanian desert lies one of the most spectacular sights this world has to offer, the ancient city of Petra. Considered to be "one of the most precious properties of man's cultural heritage" by the UNESCO council and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985, the city is famed particularly for the rose-red hue of the rock out of which it was hewn by ancient Nabatean Arabs c. 312 B.C.. After leaving your ship and boarding an air-conditioned coach, the first leg of tour will take you on a roughly 2-hour drive through the scenic Jordanian landscape to reach the ancient city. A walk through the narrow "Siq", a shadowy ravine that carves its way through sheer walls of rock, then follows to reach Petra itself. Prepare for the big reveal as you come out of the ravine, when the sudden sunshine will illuminate the palatial pink city rising majestically out of the rock face. Incredibly, the sizeable ancient city, which once served as the capital of the Nabatean Arabs and even boasted a conduit system that gave the town potable water, lay hidden from the world for more than 1.000 years until it was finally rediscovered by a Swiss explorer in 1812. Your guided tour of the extremely well-preserved site will also include visits to the Nabatean Theatre, temples, the royal tombs, and time to enjoy your packed lunch in a designated venue.

Spend some time on a private beach in Aqaba at the five stars Moevenpick Resort. Relax at the beach by the Red Sea or enjoy this five-star resort's swimming pools, Jacuzzi, a sauna, and a whirlpool. Take a look at the roomy sun terraces and at the outdoor restaurant. The resort also includes children activities and a shop if you wish to take a souvenir home for your friends. On top a top range of water sports activities, you may find parasailing, water skiing and jet skiing, banana, and tube, all available at extra charge to be paid at the resort.

This enjoyable tour of discovery teams a drive through the Arabian desert with a visit to a Bedouin camp for lunch. You'll begin your outing with a 1.15-hour coach transfer to Wadi Rum, where you'll then board a 4x4 vehicle for an explorative 2-hour trip through rose-red sand dunes. Enjoy the romance of the desert as you travel, an area inhabited since prehistoric times and home to rocks bearing traces of early Tahamudic writing. You'll be heading for a Bedouin camp, where a warm welcome and a tasty lunch await you. The return journey back to your ship will deliver more stunning desert views and give you time to relax.

A luxurious oasis nestled on the shores of the unique Red Sea and serviced by Al Manara, a Luxury Collection Hotel, the Beach Club provides a unique experience, perfect for those who are looking for excitement and enjoyable moments. Only a short 10-minute transfer separates you from a few hours of pure relaxation and fun. Once at the Saraya Beach Club, sit back and unwind by the swimming pools or the golden sandy beaches of the central lagoon. The Club is ideal for the whole family: facilities include swimming pool, kids pool and play area, restaurant, children activities and live DJ, free Wi-Fi and water sports managed by third party. All that you need to spend some time in style.

Take the family on this funny excursion to the popular Genoa Aquarium; a quick ferry transfer takes us to what is reputed to be one of Europe's best aquariums, renowned for its size and vast variety of marine creatures. As one of the most natural and environmentally friendly aquariums in the world, everyone will enjoy the collections of multi-coloured tropical fish, sharks, natural corals, penguins and dolphins. After you will have a quick boat trip back to the ship.

This enjoyable half-day outing begins with a boat transfer to Genoa's aquarium area from where you'll then set off on your city tour. A walk through the narrow lanes  called caruggi  of Genoa's historical district will see you reach the Diocesan Museum, located in the old residence of the canons of the "Cattedrale di San Lorenzo" and accessible through its lovely cloister. Follow your guide inside the Cardinal Fieschi's room, where recipes and instructions will be given to learn the use of mortar and pestle to prepare a classic pesto alla Genovese. In addition to seeing the expert preparing the pesto sauce, you'll also learn about the the ingredients and the secret of making perfect pesto and curious history of the green sauce. Next, walk to the lovely cloister, built in the XII century, for a tasty treat of bruschetta and focaccia with the freshly made pesto. The guided return walk will then take you through the historical district to the aquarium area and from there, back to the pier by boat.

Get off the ship and spend a day in magnificent Milano, the 2nd largest city in Italy as regards to population, politics and cultural affairs, and the first in the field of commerce, industry and banking. Relax on your 2-hour coach drive on the motorway from Genoa to Milan. Upon arrival, begin a 1.5-hour guided walking tour that will unveil some of Milan's best spots: Piazza Castello until reaching "La Scala"  Milan's Opera House, "Galleria Vittorio Emanuele" and Cathedral Square. Enjoy some free time in "Piazza Duomo" looking for a nice place to have lunch or, for the braver, to climb up the gold statue "Madonnina", the statue of the Virgin Mary placed atop the Cathedral. Alternatively, if you are a shopping lover, Milan is the place to be! Your 2-hour coach drive to Genoa port and your cruise ship ends this exclusive excursion.

Just a few hours of your time are all it takes to get the best of Genoa, beginning with a short walk from the port to your first stop: the truly resplendent 16th-century Palazzo del Principe. You will have a chance to explore the historical building with its frescoes, tapestries, artwork by old masters and other hidden treasures during the guided visit. A private coach will then whisk you off on a non-stop drive around Genoa, taking in such sights as the port district, Genoa's famed aquarium, the Fiera del Mare indoor arena and the expo complex. After passing through Albaro, a district once favoured by the aristocracy, you will move on to the city centre. Look forward to views of the monuments on Victoria Square, the lawns displaying Columbus' caravels in flowers, the main Via XX Settembre and bridge, Piazza de Ferrari and Columbus' House and proceed to Piazza Caricamento. Time to stretch your legs follows during a short walk with outside views of the Doges' Palace, St. Lawrence's Cathedral and St. George's Palace to enjoy. After some free time, the tour ends with a short boat trip back to the ship.

Leave the port and drive along the northern coastal road to the charming village of Fodele located in a pretty valley full of orange groves. The village is the birthplace of the famous painter El Greco who was born here in 1541. You can take a short walk through the village before continuing to Rethymnon. With its aristocratic XVI century buildings and fascinating mix of Byzantine and Hellenic-Roman remains, this town exudes a charming air of faded grandeur. Rethymnon is a mixture of Venetian and Turkish influences and is dominated by a Venetian fortress; you will have time to wander the narrow streets, admire the architecture and browse the local shops.

This tour will take you through some of the most beautiful areas of Crete that are characterized by lush vineyards and ancient olive trees. We will drive across the Aghia Varvara Pass to the southern part of Crete to reach the traditional village of Aghia Varvara where we will stop for a short visit. Our next destination will be the Messara Plain where we will explore the Minoan Palace of Phaestos. The Palace, situated in a magnificent location overlooking the Messara Plain and Ida Mountains, is second in importance and size to the palace of Knossos. The Italian archaeologist Frederico Halbherr excavated the Palace at the beginning of the XX century. The earliest settlements on the site date from the Neolithic Period and small settlements from the early Minoan period were scattered over the hill where the Palace stood. Phaestos was the centre of southern Crete, with two harbours, Matala and Kommos. Please note: this tour is not suitable for guests using a wheelchair.

This leisurely outing will see you savouring lovely views and delicious Greek flavours while you explore Crete by coach. You'll first take a drive-by look at the pretty hamlets of Hersonissos, Malia and Neapoli en route to the Vassilakis olive estate, which was founded in 1865 and is close to the ancient settlement of Drir?s. During a guided tour of the estate and mill, you'll be shown every step of the oil making process from olive to bottle  and from both a historical and modern-day perspective. As part of your tour, you'll also learn to tell good olive oil from bad and wrap your palate around a delicious tasting session of olive oil plus selected local food products. Next up, you'll pay a visit to Aghios Nikolaos, a delightful resort whose main attraction is Lake Voulismeni right in the middle of town. You'll have time to take a stroll around the pretty lake and take a look at the shops, especially jewellers, before you reboard the coach for the return transfer to the ship.

This enjoyable half-day tour offers a chance to touch base with two of Crete's proudest traditions  pottery and wine making  at the villages of Thrapsano and Peza, both of which lie inland from Heraklion. A scenic 45-minute coach ride to the southeast through Crete's varied interior will see you reach your first stop, the hillside village of Thrapsano. Life revolves around pottery here, with a main emphasis on making the giant jars known as pitharia, easily as tall as the average woman. You will get to visit one of the workshops and watch potters plying their time-honoured craft. Part two of the tour will then take you to Peza, a village with a long tradition of wine making. In fact, the surrounding region is responsible for producing around 70% of Cretan wine. A visit to a winery is scheduled here, along with a look at the vineyards and a chance to sample some of the delicious produce. The tour then ends with your return to the ship.

Take yourself back to the Aegean Bronze Age for a few hours to discover relics left by the Minoan civilisation that thrived on Crete from about 2,600 to 1,400 B.C.. Youll first board a coach and head for the outskirts of Heraklion to reach the archaeological site of Knossos, the one-time seat of King Minos. A guide will show you around the labyrinthine palace complex, which includes the royal living quarters, rooms used for state occasions, a theatre, storage areas and potters workshops. Although discovered by a Greek national in 1878, the site only began to be excavated around the turn of the century under the direction of the British archaeologist Sir Arthur Evans. Next up is a visit to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum to continue the Minoan theme. The museum is home to an impressive collection of Minoan artefacts, from terracotta, marble and alabaster idols, through gold, jewellery, ivory and figurines to frescoes and sarcophagi, all of which go to provide a fascinating insight into the artistic flair of this ancient civilisation. Please note: this tour is not suitable for guests using a wheelchair.

Drive along the coastal road and through the spectacular ravine of Saint George to Kritsa passing some villages on the way. Upon your arrival, right at the entrance of the village, you will find the Byzantine church of Panagia Kera which boasts 700-year old frescoes depicting Biblical stories. Soon after the visit, you will have a little free time in the village before continuing along the northern coastal road to reach the typical Cretan coastal town of Aghios Nikolaos. You will see a small lagoon  Lake Voulismeni  right in the centre of the town; the lake, according to local legends, is bottomless. Walk along the lakeshore or explore the pretty streets and browse the shops selling typical souvenirs. Enjoy free time before returning to the port.

This tour is rich in scenery and offers a chance to enjoy this lush section of the Italian Riviera. The tour begins with a with a 45-minute coach ride to Santa Margherita Ligure before a 10-minute boat ride to Portofino. Here we will have time at leisure to explore this delightful seaside town, to take pictures or relax in the chic cafés. We will continue by boat to Santa Margherita, from where we will return to Genoa and to the ship.

A short ferry transfer takes you to "Piazza Caricamento" for a pleasant walk through Genoa's historic town centre. We will wander the charming narrow streets known as "carruggi" to reach "Piazza de Ferrari", the commercial heart of Genoa, where we will admire "Palazzo Ducale" (external visit only). You will visit the "Cisterne del Ducale" where a local tasting made of "bruschetta" and "focaccia", typical to Genoa, awaits you. Your tour will continue with external views of the Cathedral of San Lorenzo. Free time in the old port before returning to the port.

Cape Town And Table Mountain Ending At The Airport

Khayelitsha Township Ending At The Airport

Diverse cultural influences from Asia, Africa and Europe have each contributed to Durban's development and unique character. Leave the ship and join us on a city sightseeing tour passing Durban's main sites of interest including Vasco Da Gama Clock, the Dick King Statue, the imposing Durban Club and the Yacht Club on the way to the Victoria Street Market. Step out of your coach and begin to feel the scents of spices of all kind that will thrill your senses. The ringing sounds of people calling friends, bargaining, selling their wares and bantering blend together to make unique sounds of its own  the sounds of living in this very moment. The Street Market is no place for tasteful beige and mild mannered pastels  rich jewel colors pull your eyes to their depths as you appreciate textures of fine silks and hard calicos. Your tour will continue with a drive into the city centre and past Cato Square, adjacent to Durban's century old City Hall, a close copy of the Town Hall of Belfast, which houses the Natural History Museum, a Concert Hall, Art Gallery and Municipal offices. Catch glimpses of the Local History Museum and Post Office before continuing past the Old Inland Revenue Building and Reserve Bank on the way to the Currie Rd View Site, stopping briefly to take in the panoramic views of the city. Next stop will be Durban Botanical Gardens to enjoy a leisurely stroll through the gardens, which house a wide variety of local flora, before driving to the Moses Mabhida Stadium for a photo stop. The excursion concludes with a transfer to King Shaka Airport for your return flight home.

Depart the quayside along the national road towards the Valley of a 1000 Hills. Here you will meet modern and olden African tribal culture in the traditional and spectacular homeland of the Zulu. In this geographically wondrous part of the world shaped first by the windings of the great Mgeni River, then by the culture of the Zulu tribes and finally by the coming of European man, the hills still beat to the Zulu drum. As you journey into the valley you will learn how historically these tranquil rolling hills belie the blood-soaked drama that unfolded almost two centuries ago when the Zulu King Shaka, known to historians as the "Black Napoleon", subjugated the tribes that today make up the Kingdom of the Zulu. Our visit, to Phezulu, creates the opportunity to discover at first hand the intricacies, ethnic customs and beliefs of the Zulu peoples. Here Zulu tales and history will be depicted in energetic, costumed song and dance by the renowned Gasa clan, which has been performing unique plays for over 40 years. Dances of courtship and betrothal, of the throwing of the sangoma's (witch doctor) bones, of war and of birth, set to the mesmerizing beat of the Zulu drum, will take you into another world. Afterwards explore the Zulu cultural village with its traditional beehive huts and fascinating glimpses into African tribal culture. You will also be introduced to Phezulu's impressive reptile park, taking home vivid images of some of Africa's most renowned snakes and learning about our crocodiles. There will be time to browse through a wealth of ethnic home-crafts on sale in the well-stocked curio shop, ranging from pottery, Zulu fabric art, woodcarving, beadwork and curios. The excursion concludes with a transfer to King Shaka Airport for your return flight home.

Relax to the max on board a beautiful catamaran bound for Mauritius' northern islands  with views galore to savour on the way and the cool sea breeze in your hair. The leisurely sail will also take you past the uninhabited island called Gunner's Quoin, no doubt for the block-like appearance of a near vertical cliff face called "The Wall". Your trip continues for another 1.5 hours to reach your destination: the sheltered lagoon that lies between Îlot Gabriel and Île Plate, or Flat Island. These are perfect conditions to enjoy the warm embrace of the water, go swimming or snorkelling and then simply stretch out and mellow out on the beach. A delicious BBQ lunch, fresh and hot off the coals, rounds off your nautical experience before you start on the return trip back to your ship.

With a name that means free, flat land and is derived from the Dutch, Flic-en-Flac beach  a long stretch of powdery sand the colour of pale honey  is your destination on this appealing outing, which takes you to Mauritius' western coast. The splendid beach is the perfect spot to stretch out and catch the sun, go for a dip in the beautiful lagoon  protected by a coral reef  or take a stroll along the shoreline. You'll have about 3 hours to enjoy the scenery before you re-board the coach for the trip back to Port Louis.

A day off the ship exploring some of Mauritius' unspoiled natural beauty in the south of the island can be yours to enjoy on this leisurely and largely coach-based tour. A scenic drive will first see you reach your first stop, the lake known as Ganga Talao or Grand Bassin. This secluded and picture-perfect crater lake in the mountains of Savanne is the most important site of Hindu worship on Mauritius and also boasts several temples, including one dedicated to Lord Shiva. You will then move on through the Black River Gorges National Park, home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, waterfalls and ebony trees. You will be heading for the next highlight, the area known as Chamarel and the unique Seven Coloured Earths dune phenomenon. Real phenomenon of nature, this natural attraction of rare beauty will leave you speechless with its shades of colors of scarlet, green, the degrade of yellow and brown a real festival for the eyes. The multi-coloured sands were formed by volcanic rock and shift on a continuous basis, providing a most unusual geological spectacle that is well worth a photo or two. Last up is a visit to a nearby public beach where time will be yours to enjoy before you return to the ship.

First up on this half-day tour is a brief coach ride up to the Pamplemousses region of Mauritius to reach the marvellous SSR Botanical Gardens, or the Pamplemousses Botanical Gardens as they are commonly known. The gardens date back to the late 18th century and were established by the French horticulturalist, Pierre Poivre, and continue to enchant visitors as they stroll through its leafy grounds. Apart from lush tropical vegetation, the gardens also boast a large pond that is almost covered in water lilies. Following on from the botanical gardens, you'll move on to Port Louis for a drive-by look at its main sights  churches, mosques and temples  after which there'll be time for you to do some shopping at the attractive Caudan Waterfront shopping and leisure complex before you head back to the ship.

Get set to explore the fascinating underwater world off the coast of Mauritius without even wetting a toe on this leisurely submarine excursion. After boarding a coach at the pier, you will head north to the Trou-aux-Biches area and the Blue Safari headquarters. From there, you will get on the submarine and set off on your unusual tour of discovery. Once fully submerged at a depth of around 30 m, the sub will take you through a colourful garden of aquatic flora and fauna  all you have to do is relax and feast your eyes. Next on the itinerary is the seaside resort of Grand Bay, which sits on the shores of a turquoise lagoon. This is your chance to browse and shop at the trendy stores, malls and the market of Grand Bay. The tour then wraps up with your return to the ship in Port Louis.

Treat yourself to a chance to swim with dolphins in their natural habitat by joining this half-day excursion, which begins with a scenic coach transfer down to the town of Black River on the southwest coast of Mauritius. You will then board a speedboat and set off in search of dolphins, with your skipper briefing you on the upcoming encounter and the lifecycle of these endearing aquatic mammals. After taking to the water yourself, you will get to swim alongside these wild yet inquisitive creatures  a unique experience to tell friends and family about at home. The return drive back up to Port Louis then wraps the excursion up in the most leisurely way.

Mauritius calls a number of smaller outlying islands its own, one of which is situated just off the eastern coastline, the lovely Île D'Ambre, or Amber Island  the destination of your kayaking adventure on this all-day tour. You will first head east on the coach to reach the coastal town of Goodlands, then continue by kayak through the verdant surroundings. Your tour guide will provide information on the marine ecosystem and the significant role Île D'Ambre played in Mauritius' history. Once back on Mauritius proper, lunch will be served at the beach bar of the famous South African rugby player, Cabous, which is situated in Grand Bay. Your return journey to Port Louis and your ship brings the tour to a close.

Non-alcoholic beverage package	$17 - $25
Alcoholic beverage package	$38 - $69
Gratuities	$14 - $20
Wi-fi internet access	$10.95 - $31.95
Specialty dining	Varies
Spa packages & shore excursions	Varies

Cruisebound

29 Night Mediterranean Cruise

29 Night Mediterranean Cruise

Cruise highlights

Itinerary

Shore excursions

Amenities

About the ship

MSC Opera

Included in your fare

Add-ons

Flights & hotels

29 Night Mediterranean Cruise

29 Night Mediterranean Cruise

Cruise highlights

Itinerary

Shore excursions

Amenities

About the ship

MSC Opera

Included in your fare

Add-ons

Flights & hotels

Flights

Hotels

Departure info