October 31 – November 14, 2009
Oceania Cruises Regatta
Introducing a cruise on Oceania Cruises cruise ship Regatta to the Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East! (14 night cruise departing October 31, 2009)
Prices start at only $3,999 per person, including roundtrip airfare from the US to Europe!
Pied Piper Travel proudly presents an exciting new itinerary! Join us on this 2009 cruise to the Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East on Oceania Cruises ship, Regatta! Sail from exciting, Istanbul to Kusadasi (Ephesus) and other exotic ports in Cyprus, Tunisia, and Israel! A highlight of our cruise will be a visit to Alexandria, Egypt so you can visit the Pyramids, one of the seven wonders of the world! We'll end our cruise in the cosmopolitan and gay-friendly city of Barcelona! This is a most incredible itinerary, the perfect opportunity to enjoy some of the best sightseeing that Europe has to offer. And you will sail on this most beautiful cruise ship, Regatta!
Istanbul, Turkey
Indulge your eyes and senses in this magnificent city astride two continents. Visit beautiful Topkapi Palace, the awesome St. Sophia and the impressive Blue Mosque. Cruise the Bosphorus to see the city and its surroundings from another perspective. Visit one of the many museums, stroll through the spice market and the famous Grand Bazaar.
The Grand Bazaar is a splendid cornucopia of leather and shearling, world famous hand-made carpets, jewelry, souvenirs, tin and copper items - just about anything you can imagine.
Savor a simmering kebab, fresh-caught fish and sweet, sticky baklava washed down with thick Turkish coffee.
Kusadasi, Turkey
Meander through the ruins of ancient Ephesus and marvel at the famed Library of Celsus, the huge amphitheater, the marble roads with their chariot marks, the amazing mosaic sidewalks and the superb, rarely opened Terrace Houses. Or, journey to three monumental cities of antiquity - Priene, Miletus and Didyma, renowned for their majestic temples and impressive, beautifully preserved stadiums.
Visit Kusadasi's bazaar and nearby shops for spices, apple tea, luxurious handmade carpets and antique jewelry.
Savor fresh fish caught this morning or a spicy kebab, complemented by a sticky sweet dessert!
Limassol, Cyprus
Limassol is the jumping off point to explore the ancient riches of Cyprus. See ruins, vast groves of lemons, oranges and olives, majestic mountains and scenery, and stunning beaches. Visit Lemesos Castle, where Richard-the-Lionheart married Berengaria of Navarre, and its fascinating museum. Or stroll through ancient Curium and admire its stunning mosaics, theater, basilica and panoramic views over the sea. Venture inland to Nicosia and its wonders, like the Cathedral of St. John, the Venetian fortifications, a restored old town and mosque and the Museum.
Take home some lovely lace, copper items, jewelry and pottery.
Enjoy a selection of appetizers so extensive it can be a hearty meal as well as fresh seafood accompanied by a delicious glass of wine.
Haifa, Israel
Visit the land of miracles - Galilee, the Jordan River, the Mount of the Beautitudes and Tabgha, or venture to Nazareth, home of the young Jesus. See the largest hanging gardens in the world at the Bahai Gardens of Haifa.
The Panorama Center in Central Carmel offers some of the country's best clothing stores. For antiques and crafts, head to the boutiques on Massada Street. South of Haifa, the artists’ village of Ein Hod offers hand-blown glass, pottery, silver, gold, and crafts.
From French to Continental to Middle Eastern cuisine, dining choices abound. Fresh fish and grilled lamb dishes are the highlight. The best dessert is homemade kanafeh, a traditional ancient dish of baked sweet cheese, pistachio and honey.
Cairo (Port Said), Egypt
Travel to Cairo and marvel at the Giza pyramids and Sphinx standing at the edge of the vast Sahara. Visit the fabulous Egyptian Museum and see its awesome collection of artifacts or head for Alexandria and its ancient sites and museums.
Browse Cairo's bazaar for unusual jewelry like Eye of Horus amulets, hand-painted papyrus copies of ancient tomb paintings, glass, alabaster and artifact replicas. Or find an ancient relic approved for export.
Relax over a cup of sweet tea and sample delicious vegetable appetizers or some spicy lamb kebabs, a typical Middle Eastern dish.
Alexandria (Cairo), Egypt
Founded by its namesake, Alexander the Great in 332 B.C., Alexandria has been home to many historical figures, including Cleopatra, Mark Antony, Julius Caesar and Euclid. Today the city has a distinctly Mediterranean feel, perhaps a remainder of its ancient Roman connection. The charming seaside promenade, colonial buildings and wide avenues make it an exotic, romantic destination.
As with most of Egypt, the historical landmarks here are a must-see. Take time to explore the Roman Amphitheatre, Pompei's Pillar and the Catacombs of Kom ash-Shuqqafa, dating back to the second century A.D.
Aghios Nikolaos (Crete), Greece
Explore this charming town, discover fascinating ancient Minoan and Byzantine villages, and see the panorama of lovely windmills irrigating meticulously cultivated fields. Visit a monastery or head across the island to see the re-constituted Palace of Knossos.
Take home lovely handmade tablecloths, rugs, olive wood products, jewelry, honey and a variety of other handicrafts.
Enjoy delicious grilled lamb, fresh seafood or tempting assortments of cold appetizers accompanied by a glass of local wine.
Valletta, Malta
Discover the myriad cultural layers of Malta, from its amazing prehistoric temples at Tarxien to beautiful, walled medieval Mdina, nearby Rabat and Marsaxlokk, a colorful fishing village. Admire the stunning scenery and wander through imposing churches, down the streets of fortified towns where the Knights of St. John once held sway.
Take home hand-blown glass, unique limestone carvings, hand-made lace and superbly worked gold and silver filigree jewelry.
Enjoy thick soups, lamb, fish and traditional dishes like fenkata (rabbit stewed in wine) or bragioli (slow cooked stuffed slices of beef).
La Goulette, Tunisia
Travel across millennia as you visit the ruins of ancient Carthage and Tunis's opulent, historic medina with its winding alleys and souks. Visit the superb Bardo Museum with its spectacular Roman mosaics or the lovely whitewashed village of Sidi Bou Saïd perched on a cliff above the sea, a charming spot of cobbled streets, flower-filled courtyards and ornate window grills painted deep blue.
Enjoy looking for interesting jewelry, caftans, inlaid boxes and ornate trinkets.
Try some local spicy dishes, usually with lamb, and sweet desserts.
Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East Cruise Itinerary
Date
Port
Arrive
Depart
31 October
Istanbul, Turkey
1 November
Istanbul, Turkey
3 PM
2 November
Kusadasi, Turkey
1 PM
8 PM
3 November
Cruising the Mediterranean Sea
4 November
Limassol, Cyprus
8 AM
6 PM
5 November
Haifa, Israel
7 AM
6 November
Haifa, Israel
6 PM
7 November
Cairo (Port Said), Egypt
6 AM
8 PM
8 November
Alexandria (Cairo), Egypt
8 AM
3 PM
9 November
Aghios Nikolaos (Crete), Greece
1 PM
8 PM
10 November
Cruising the Mediterranean Sea
11 November
Valletta, Malta
8 AM
4 PM
12 November
La Goulette, Tunisia
8 AM
6 PM
13 November
Cruising the Mediterranean Sea
14 November
Barcelona, Spain
5 AM
Regatta
Sleek, elegantly charming, Regatta is the Flagship of the Oceania Cruises fleet. Her decks are resplendent in the finest teak, custom stone and tile work and her lounges, suites and staterooms boast luxurious, neo-classical furnishings, Regatta offers every luxury you expect. Four unique, open seating restaurants, a world class fitness center and spa, 8 lounges and bars, casino and 342 lavish suites and luxurious staterooms, nearly 70% of which feature private verandas. And with just 684 guests to pamper, our 400 professionally trained European staff ensures you will want for nothing.
Click on a decks below to discover the Regatta (another Happy Gay Travel feature)
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Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East Cruise Rates
(Updated 20.11.08. - Current prices/availability.)
Category
Description
Availability
G - Inside Double Stateroom
It's like another world inside these private retreats, which boast 160 square feet of beautifully designed luxury. The comfortable furnishings and warm woods add to the serenity. Each stateroom features a comfortable seating area, vanity desk, plenty of storage space, and queen or two twin bed accommodations. Located on decks 4, 6, 7 and 8.
$ 4,799
F - Inside Double Stateroom
It's like another world inside these private retreats, which boast 160 square feet of beautifully designed luxury. The comfortable furnishings and warm woods add to the serenity. Each stateroom features a comfortable seating area, vanity desk, plenty of storage space, and queen or two twin bed accommodations. Located on decks 4, 6, 7 and 8.
$ 4,899
E - Ocean-view Stateroom, obstructed view
Centrally located on deck 6, these 143-square-foot staterooms offer a vanity desk with chair, a small breakfast table, ample closet, and a panorama window with obstructed views. A comfortable queen-sized Tranquility Bed is convertible to two twins as needed.
On Request
D - Ocean-view Stateroom with porthole
Designed to maximize space, these exquisitely appointed 165-square-foot staterooms on deck 3 offer the comfort of queen or two twin bed accommodations, a seating area with sofa, vanity desk and breakfast table. Spectacular seascapes can be seen through a classic porthole.
$ 5,099
C2 - Deluxe Ocean-view Stateroom with window
With the curtains drawn back and the ocean in full view, these spacious 165-square-foot staterooms, located on decks 4, 6 and 7, feel even more commodious. The custom-designed furnishings and stylish fabrics only add to the allure. Features include queen or two twin bed accommodations, spacious seating area, vanity desk and breakfast table.
$ 5,499
C1 - Deluxe Ocean-view Stateroom with window
With the curtains drawn back and the ocean in full view, these spacious 165-square-foot staterooms, located on decks 4, 6 and 7, feel even more commodious. The custom-designed furnishings and stylish fabrics only add to the allure. Features include queen or two twin bed accommodations, spacious seating area, vanity desk and breakfast table.
$ 5,599
B2 - Ocean-view Stateroom with veranda
Located throughout deck 6, these handsomely appointed, 216-square-foot staterooms boast our most requested luxury – a private teak veranda. Watch the world sail by while comfortably seated outdoors, or relax on your comfortable sofa inside. Other conveniences include a vanity desk, breakfast table and choice of queen or two twin bed accommodations.
$ 6,299
B1 - Ocean-view Stateroom with veranda
Located throughout deck 6, these handsomely appointed, 216-square-foot staterooms boast our most requested luxury – a private teak veranda. Watch the world sail by while comfortably seated outdoors, or relax on your comfortable sofa inside. Other conveniences include a vanity desk, breakfast table and choice of queen or two twin bed accommodations.
$ 6,399
A3 - Concierge Level Ocean-view Stateroom with veranda
The term "concierge" evolved from a French phrase referring to the person who tended to visiting nobles. Treating guests royally is also the guiding principle behind the design of our Concierge Level Staterooms (A1, A2 and A3) in preferred locations on deck 7. These beautifully decorated 216-square-foot staterooms mirror many of the luxurious amenities found in our Penthouse Suites, including a private teak veranda, flat-screen television, plush seating area and spacious closet. Comfort and convenience are the hallmarks of these extraordinary staterooms.
$ 6,599
A2 - Concierge Level Ocean-view Stateroom with veranda
The term "concierge" evolved from a French phrase referring to the person who tended to visiting nobles. Treating guests royally is also the guiding principle behind the design of our Concierge Level Staterooms (A1, A2 and A3) in preferred locations on deck 7. These beautifully decorated 216-square-foot staterooms mirror many of the luxurious amenities found in our Penthouse Suites, including a private teak veranda, flat-screen television, plush seating area and spacious closet. Comfort and convenience are the hallmarks of these extraordinary staterooms.
$ 6,699
A1 - Concierge Level Ocean-view Stateroom with veranda
The term "concierge" evolved from a French phrase referring to the person who tended to visiting nobles. Treating guests royally is also the guiding principle behind the design of our Concierge Level Staterooms (A1, A2 and A3) in preferred locations on deck 7. These beautifully decorated 216-square-foot staterooms mirror many of the luxurious amenities found in our Penthouse Suites, including a private teak veranda, flat-screen television, plush seating area and spacious closet. Comfort and convenience are the hallmarks of these extraordinary staterooms.
$ 6,899
PH3 - Penthouse Suite with veranda
Located exclusively on deck 8, our collection of elegant Penthouse Suites features every imaginable creature comfort, much like a world-class hotel. Ingeniously designed for maximum space, each 322-square-foot oasis offers an immensely comfortable queen-sized Tranquility Bed which may be converted into two twins. There's also plenty of space for the living area, private in-suite dining, refrigerated mini bar, vanity desk, and a bath with a tub. More room and even more magnificent views await you through the sliding glass door on the exquisitely furnished private teak veranda.
On Request
PH2 - Penthouse Suite with veranda
Located exclusively on deck 8, our collection of elegant Penthouse Suites features every imaginable creature comfort, much like a world-class hotel. Ingeniously designed for maximum space, each 322-square-foot oasis offers an immensely comfortable queen-sized Tranquility Bed which may be converted into two twins. There's also plenty of space for the living area, private in-suite dining, refrigerated mini bar, vanity desk, and a bath with a tub. More room and even more magnificent views await you through the sliding glass door on the exquisitely furnished private teak veranda.
On Request
PH1 - Penthouse Suite with veranda
Located exclusively on deck 8, our collection of elegant Penthouse Suites features every imaginable creature comfort, much like a world-class hotel. Ingeniously designed for maximum space, each 322-square-foot oasis offers an immensely comfortable queen-sized Tranquility Bed which may be converted into two twins. There's also plenty of space for the living area, private in-suite dining, refrigerated mini bar, vanity desk, and a bath with a tub. More room and even more magnificent views await you through the sliding glass door on the exquisitely furnished private teak veranda.
On Request
VS - Vista Suite with veranda
Our most coveted suites with 786 square feet devoted to your pleasure. With sweeping views over the bow, they also present a wealth of amenities, ensuring that each moment is a pure delight. Ease into your own Jacuzzi. Watch first run Hollywood movies on the 42" plasma flat-screen TV with Bose® surround sound system or on a second flat-screen TV from the comfort of your bed. Play DVDs and CDs in the entertainment center, or access the Internet from the laptop computer provided while enjoying a favorite beverage from the refrigerated mini bar. Wake up wonderfully rested on the queen-sized Tranquility Bed. Draw back the curtains from the numerous floor-to-ceiling glass doors and enjoy spectacular views from the wraparound teak veranda furnished with resort-quality outdoor lounge furniture. There's even a second bathroom for guests.
On Request
OS - Owner's Suite with veranda
Our most spacious suites span nearly 1,000 square feet, every inch devoted to your pleasure. Located in premier corner locations on decks 6, 7 and 8, they present a wealth of amenities, ensuring that each moment is a pure delight. Ease into your own Jacuzzi. Watch first run Hollywood movies on the 42" plasma flat-screen TV with Bose® surround sound system or on a second flat-screen TV from the comfort of your bed. Play DVDs and CDs in the entertainment center, or access the Internet from the laptop computer provided while enjoying a favorite beverage from the refrigerated mini bar. Wake up wonderfully rested on the queen-sized Tranquility Bed. Draw back the curtains from the numerous floor-to-ceiling glass doors and enjoy spectacular views from the wraparound teak veranda furnished with resort-quality outdoor lounge furniture. There's even a second bathroom for guests.
On Request
Passengers who arrange their own airfare may deduct $520pp from the above fares.
All prices are per person, double occupancy, and include all meals, accommodations and entertainment!
Prices INCLUDE roundtrip airfare from the US to Europe! *
Fares are subject to availability and may change without prior notice.
Also included are the traditional PIED PIPER escort and activities, subject to minimum participation.
Port charges are included. Taxes, gratuities, and optional insurance are additional.
Traveling alone? Ask about our single roommate share program to help you avoid the single supplement of 200% of the per person double occupancy rate.
Please ask for further details.
* Free air Offer may expire at any time without prior notice. Air promotion applies to economy, round-trip flights only from select Oceania Cruises U.S. & Canadian gateways and does not include ground transfers, air taxes and air fuel surcharges. Air ticketing fee will apply. Free Airfare is available only from the following Oceania Cruises Primary Air Gateways: ATL, BOS, ORD, DFW, DEN, IAH, LAX, MIA, JFK, EWR, MCO, PHL, PHX, SAN, SFO, SEA, TPA, YYZ, YVR, IAD. Airfare is available from all other U.S. & Canadian gateways at an additional charge.
Indulge your eyes and senses in this magnificent city astride two continents. Visit beautiful Topkapi Palace, the awesome St. Sophia and the impressive Blue Mosque. Cruise the Bosphorus to see the city and its surroundings from another perspective. Visit one of the many museums, stroll through the spice market and the famous Grand Bazaar.
Meander through the ruins of ancient Ephesus and marvel at the famed Library of Celsus, the huge amphitheater, the marble roads with their chariot marks, the amazing mosaic sidewalks and the superb, rarely opened Terrace Houses. Or, journey to three monumental cities of antiquity - Priene, Miletus and Didyma, renowned for their majestic temples and impressive, beautifully preserved stadiums.
Limassol is the jumping off point to explore the ancient riches of Cyprus. See ruins, vast groves of lemons, oranges and olives, majestic mountains and scenery, and stunning beaches. Visit Lemesos Castle, where Richard-the-Lionheart married Berengaria of Navarre, and its fascinating museum. Or stroll through ancient Curium and admire its stunning mosaics, theater, basilica and panoramic views over the sea. Venture inland to Nicosia and its wonders, like the Cathedral of St. John, the Venetian fortifications, a restored old town and mosque and the Museum.
Visit the land of miracles - Galilee, the Jordan River, the Mount of the Beautitudes and Tabgha, or venture to Nazareth, home of the young Jesus. See the largest hanging gardens in the world at the Bahai Gardens of Haifa.
Travel to Cairo and marvel at the Giza pyramids and Sphinx standing at the edge of the vast Sahara. Visit the fabulous Egyptian Museum and see its awesome collection of artifacts or head for Alexandria and its ancient sites and museums.
Founded by its namesake, Alexander the Great in 332 B.C., Alexandria has been home to many historical figures, including Cleopatra, Mark Antony, Julius Caesar and Euclid. Today the city has a distinctly Mediterranean feel, perhaps a remainder of its ancient Roman connection. The charming seaside promenade, colonial buildings and wide avenues make it an exotic, romantic destination.
Explore this charming town, discover fascinating ancient Minoan and Byzantine villages, and see the panorama of lovely windmills irrigating meticulously cultivated fields. Visit a monastery or head across the island to see the re-constituted Palace of Knossos.
Discover the myriad cultural layers of Malta, from its amazing prehistoric temples at Tarxien to beautiful, walled medieval Mdina, nearby Rabat and Marsaxlokk, a colorful fishing village. Admire the stunning scenery and wander through imposing churches, down the streets of fortified towns where the Knights of St. John once held sway.
Travel across millennia as you visit the ruins of ancient Carthage and Tunis's opulent, historic medina with its winding alleys and souks. Visit the superb Bardo Museum with its spectacular Roman mosaics or the lovely whitewashed village of Sidi Bou Saïd perched on a cliff above the sea, a charming spot of cobbled streets, flower-filled courtyards and ornate window grills painted deep blue.
