Passage Into An Ancient Crossroads of History

Black Sea Voyage

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The magnificent Black Sea coast, rimmed with ancient cities and sites that span the course of recorded history, is ideally suited for exploration by small ship. Accompanied by an expert art historian, Mariana Carpinisan of Georgetown University, we embark aboard the deluxe Corinthian II in Istanbul and journey along the northern coast of Turkey, with its Ottoman mosques, Byzantine churches, and soaring citadels. Crossing the Black Sea to the Crimean Peninsula, we visit Yalta, former summer residence of the Russian imperial family, Sevastopol, crucible of the Crimean War, and lovely Odessa, founded by Catherine the Great. Our Black Sea explorations bring us back to Istanbul via the coast of Bulgaria. Our pre-trip extension explores unforgettable Istanbul in depth.

Below is an Itinerary-in-Brief. To view a complete Detailed Itinerary, Download Full Itinerary or Email our Area Specialist

Itinerary-in-Brief

Days 1-3
Istanbul, Turkey / Amasra

In Istanbul, we embark aboard our deluxe 114-guest vessel, which features a yacht-like atmosphere and 57 all-outside suites. Our sea journey begins as we navigate the Bosphorus, the narrow channel that separates the European and Asian continents, and we watch from deck as the famed domes and minarets of Istanbul fade into the horizon. We cruise alongside ancient Paphlagonia, which once hosted Greek colonies until Romans conquered the area in 63 BC. Arriving in Bartin, we head ashore to visit the town of Amasra (ancient Sesamus), perched atop a headland sheltering two harbors and two castles. Founded by Milesians in the 6th century BC, it was an important possession of both Byzantium and Genoa. We visit the Genovese citadel, which crowns one of the promontories.

Days 4-5
Amasya / Trabzon

From Samsun, we drive to Amasya, according to legend founded by the Amazon queen Amasis. It is a beautiful town of half-timbered Ottoman mansions set in the gorge of the Iris River. We also call at Trabzon (ancient Trapezus) to visit its Byzantine treasures as well as the amazing 14th century Sumela Monastery, nestled into a cliff face.

Days 6-9
Yalta, Ukraine / Sevastopol / Odessa

We cross the Black Sea to Yalta on the Crimean Peninsula. With its mountains, vineyards, and Mediterranean climate, Yalta has long been a retreat for Russia’s ruling elite. Czar Nicholas had a holiday home here. We stroll the waterfront promenade and visit Levadia Palace, where Churchill, Roosevelt, and Stalin gathered to determine the postwar map of Europe. In the port city of Sevastopol, we explore the ruins of Chersonesos, founded by Greeks in the 5th century BC, then head to the Panorama Museum to see its fascinating displays of Sevastopol’s defenses during the Crimean War. In Odessa, an elegant and leafy city overlooking a picturesque harbor, we stroll the shady promenades, descend the famous Potemkin Steps, and visit a local family in their home.

Days 10-11
Varna, Bulgaria / Istanbul

With its golden sands and welcoming climate, Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast has been inhabited since the 5th century BC, when it was the ancient Greece trading colony of Odessos. At Varna, the third largest city in Bulgaria, we visit the Roman baths as well as the domed Cathedral of the Assumption, with its splendid bishop’s throne. In Varna’s outstanding archaeological museum we view the “Gold of Varna,” Copper Age goods from Varna’s necropolis and the oldest gold treasures ever excavated. Return to Istanbul and depart on Day 11.

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Tour Costs Per person from: $6,395 Prices are based on double occupancy and depend on cabin type *Prices are for 2008 dates only **Airfare is not included in Tour Cost unless indicated

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