Deckplan
September and October in the Aegean are perfect months for visiting some of the unspoiled islands, traditional towns and ancient sites where 3000 years of history can be viewed in relative peace and quiet in the absence of high summer crowds. With the MS Monet we are able to combine the lesser known islands of the region and encounter their timeless qualities with some of the most significant ancient sites as we cruise through the turquoise waters of the Aegean from Rhodes to Thessaloniki.
After many years of experience of operating cruises in the Aegean, we believe we have the perfectly balanced itinerary with a mix of guided excursions and time at leisure to discover the charming towns independently. We will explore some truly wonderful sites including Patmos where we will visit the grotto of St John, the fascinating site of Ephesus where St Paul preached, the 11th century Monastery of Nea Moni in Chios and the Sanctuary of the Great Gods on the small island of Samothrace. By the end of the cruise you will have seen and learnt so much, all from the comfort of the MS Monet which allows us access to ports which the big ships simply can’t reach.
With a maximum of just 50 guests, our trips ashore will be a pleasure as we explore with local guides who will also join us on board for our cruise, adding immeasurably to our knowledge of the region. Whether you are interested in ancient history, Greek myths or simply the joy of cruising aboard a small ship and experiencing new places and islands in this beautiful region, our voyage through the Aegean will surely appeal.
Useful links & Travel Advice
Please find a selection of useful websites to refer to for information from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, on visa requirements, NHS travel health advice and other useful travel tips.
Monet
We are delighted to have chartered the MS Monet, a 220 foot motor yacht accommodating a maximum of 50 guests, for a series of cruises through the Mediterranean in 2022. Originally built in 1970, MS Monet was converted and launched as a passenger ship in 1998, fully renovated in 2016 and upgraded again in 2018. If you find large resort style vessels accommodating many thousands of passengers attractive then of course this isn’t the vessel for you. However, if you prefer an informal and warm atmosphere more akin to a private yacht combined with an itinerary dedicated to both discovery and relaxation then you need look no further.
23rd September Itinerary
Day 1 London to Rhodes, Greece.
Fly by scheduled indirect flight. On arrival transfer to the MS Monet and embark. Enjoy welcome drinks and dinner as we sail this evening.
Day 2 Kos.
According to myth, Kos was the homeland of the Giants. The island has given to the world Hippocrates, father of medicine, Pythagoras, and the 4th century painter Apelles. We will drive the short distance to the Asklepion, the infirmary of Antiquity, which was constructed in the 4th century BC. Among the ruins are part of the Doric Temple of Aesculapius, the altar and the Stoa which housed the famous Hippocrates Medical School. After lunch on board you have the afternoon to explore Kos Town at your own pace, maybe head to the once impregnable Castle of the Knights, the 3rd century BC Agora, see the museum housing fine mosaics or simply relax at one of the cafes in the squares.
Day 3 Patmos.
Of all the Greek islands, Patmos is the most sacred to Christians both Orthodox and Western and it was here that St John received his revelation. This morning we will make our way to the grotto of St John. This small cave, now converted into the beautiful chapel, is where the Saint lived, had his revelation and wrote ‘Book of the Apocalypse’. From here continue to the village of Chora, with its simple houses and Byzantine churches and climb to the Monastery of St John the Theologian. Upon entering into the courtyard, admire the intricate pebbled laid floor, decorated arches and frescoes adorning the entrance to the chapel of Christodoulos. Return to the MS Monet for lunch and the afternoon and evening are at leisure to explore the picturesque town of Skala.
Day 4 Didim, Miletus & Priene, Turkey.
From the port of Didim we will drive to Priene, an ancient Greek holy city and the home of an important temple of Athena. Priene’s picturesque ruins include several columns of the Temple of Athena, much of the city wall, a well-preserved theatre and a council chamber. We will continue to Miletus, one of the most important cities in ancient Greek world and visited by St Paul on his third missionary journey. Here were Minoans, Mycenaeans and one-time allies of the Trojans. The city foolishly led a revolt of the Ionian Greek cities against the powerful Persian Empire who ruled until the arrival of Alexander in the 4th century BC. Here we will see a fine theatre, well laid out chessboard street plans, two agoras (marketplaces), baths, a council chamber, fortifications, stadium and harbour workings. After lunch on board we will have time to explore the colossal temple and oracle to Apollo in Didim.
Day 5 Kusadasi.
Arrive in Kusadasi over breakfast and drive to the nearby ancient city of Ephesus, a stunning and partially excavated site where digging has been taking place for over a century. Broad streets are lined by impressive buildings including the Library of Celsus and the temples of Serapis and Hadrian. Once the capital of Ionia, St Paul preached here on his second missionary journey and we will see the Church of the Virgin Mary, the most important Christian monument in Ephesus. Also see the spectacular Grand Theatre, originally built in the 3rd century BC by the Greeks, and later expanded by the Romans to its present capacity of 24,000. We will enjoy an afternoon at leisure in Kusadasi.
Day 6 Chios, Greece.
The birthplace of Homer, Chios remained a significant Aegean island into the Byzantine period. Homer mentions the island by name several times in the Odyssey, calling it ‘paipaloessa’, or craggy, a richly deserved epithet. The island is rich in ancient ruins and this morning we will visit the 11th century Monastery of Nea Moni, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important ecclesiastical monuments in Greece. Return to the MS Monet for lunch and this afternoon is free to explore the town of Chios independently or join a tour to the south of the island where we visit the beautifully preserved 14th century fortress village of Mesta and the elaborately decorated houses of Pirgi enjoying time to wander through their maze-like streets.
Day 7 Samothrace.
After a morning at sea we arrive on the small island of Samothrace. This rarely visited island contains one of the ancient world’s great sites, the Sanctuary of the Great Gods, the site of important religious ceremonies. We will visit the main archaeological site including the Greek theatre, ruined temples and the ruins of a rotunda built for Arsinoe, one of the largest circular buildings from ancient Greece. Also see the replica of the statue of Nike, the original of which was discovered here in 1863 and now resides in the Louvre Museum.
Day 8 Lemnos & Mount Athos.
Awake in Myrina, the small capital of Lemnos in the northern Aegean, known for its romantic castle built over the rocky promontory. The castle foundations date back to Classical times when it was the site of the temple of Artemis. A morning guided walk will include the picturesque quay, Romeikos Gialos, lined with charming Neoclassical houses one of which contains the Archaeological Museum. Sail over lunch and in the late afternoon we arrive off the Athos Peninsula, dominated by the peak of Mount Athos which rises to 2033 metres. Also known as Holy Mountain, a monastic community was established here in 963 when the monk Athanasios established the monastery of Great Lavra, the largest and most prominent of the 20 monasteries located here. We will use the MS Monet to cruise along the coastline viewing the monasteries from the sea whilst our onboard guides provide commentary.
Day 9 Thessaloniki.
Since its foundation by King Cassander of Macedonia in 315 BC and named after his wife and stepsister of Alexander the Great, Thessaloniki has always been a metropolis. The long history of the city is evident by the varied architectural forms from the Hellenistic era up to the end of the 20th century as well as an astonishing Byzantine artistic heritage. This morning either explore the city seeing the White Tower, the symbol of the city, the Galerious Arch, the Rotunda, St Dimitrios Church, the Citadel and the City Walls, from where you will have a marvellous view of the city and the Thermaic Gulf with Mount Olympus in the background. Alternatively drive to the Vergina Royal Tombs Museum which displays the superb, decorated facades of the temple-like tombs of King Philip II and a young prince (thought to be Alexander IV), the treasures found within them and a reconstruction of the Great Mound that originally marked the site of the Royal Tombs. The tombs were discovered in 1977-78 by the archaeologist Manolis Andronikos and until their discovery they were covered by a protective tumulus 13 metres high and 110 metres across. Return to the ship for lunch and enjoy a final afternoon at leisure to explore the city at your own pace.
Day 10 Thessaloniki to London.
Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for the return scheduled flight to London.
2nd October Itinerary
Day 1 London to Thessaloniki, Greece.
Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to the MS Monet and embark. Enjoy welcome drinks and dinner as we moor overnight.
Day 2 Thessaloniki.
Since its foundation by King Cassander of Macedonia in 315 BC and named after his wife and stepsister of Alexander the Great, Thessaloniki has always been a metropolis. The long history of the city is evident by the varied architectural forms from the Hellenistic era up to the end of the 20th century as well as an astonishing Byzantine artistic heritage. This morning either explore the city seeing the White Tower, the symbol of the city, the Galerious Arch, the Rotunda, St Dimitrios Church, the Citadel and the City Walls, from where you will have a marvellous view of the city and the Thermaic Gulf with Mount Olympus in the background. Alternatively drive to the Vergina Royal Tombs Museum which displays the superb, decorated facades of the temple-like tombs of King Philip II and a young prince (thought to be Alexander IV), the treasures found within them and a reconstruction of the Great Mound that originally marked the site of the Royal Tombs. The tombs were discovered in 1977-78 by the archaeologist Manolis Andronikos and until their discovery they were covered by a protective tumulus 13 metres high and 110 metres across. Return to the ship for lunch and enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore the city at your own pace.
Day 3 Mount Athos & Lemnos.
Arrive this morning off the Athos Peninsula, dominated by the peak of Mount Athos which rises to 2033 metres. Also known as Holy Mountain, a monastic community was established here in 963 when the monk Athanasios established the monastery of Great Lavra, which is still the largest and most prominent of the 20 monasteries located here. We will use the MS Monet to cruise along the coastline viewing the monasteries from the sea whilst our onboard guides provide commentary. Spend the afternoon in Myrina, the small capital of Lemnos in the northern Aegean, known for its romantic castle built over the rocky promontory. The castle foundations date back to Classical times when it was the site of the temple of Artemis. An afternoon guided walk will include the picturesque quay, Romeikos Gialos, lined with charming Neoclassical houses one of which contains the Archaeological Museum.
Day 4 Samothrace.
The small, rarely visited, island of Samothrace contains one of the ancient world’s great sites, the Sanctuary of the Great Gods, the site of important religious ceremonies. We will visit the main archaeological site including the Greek theatre, ruined temples and the ruins of a rotunda built for Arsinoe, one of the largest circular buildings from ancient Greece. Also see the replica of the statue of Nike, the original of which was discovered here in 1863 and now resides in the Louvre Museum. Relax on board this afternoon as we cruise through the Aegean.
Day 5 Chios.
The birthplace of Homer, Chios remained a significant Aegean island into the Byzantine period. Homer mentions the island by name several times in the Odyssey, calling it ‘paipaloessa’, or craggy, a richly deserved epithet. The island is rich in ancient ruins and this morning we will visit the 11th century Monastery of Nea Moni, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important ecclesiastical monuments in Greece. Return to the MS Monet for lunch and this afternoon explore the town of Chios independently or join a tour to the south of the island where we visit the beautifully preserved 14th century fortress village of Mesta and the elaborately decorated houses of Pirgi enjoying time to wander through their maze-like streets.
Day 6 Kusadasi, Turkey.
Arrive in Kusadasi over breakfast and drive to the nearby ancient city of Ephesus, a stunning and partially excavated site where digging has been taking place for over a century. Broad streets are lined by impressive buildings including the Library of Celsus and the temples of Serapis and Hadrian. Once the capital of Ionia, St Paul preached here on his second missionary journey and we will see the Church of the Virgin Mary, the most important Christian monument in Ephesus. Also see the spectacular Grand Theatre, originally built in the 3rd century BC by the Greeks, and later expanded by the Romans to its present capacity of 24,000. We will enjoy an afternoon at leisure in Kusadasi.
Day 7 Didim, Miletus & Priene.
From the port of Didim we will drive to Priene, an ancient Greek holy city and the home of an important temple of Athena. Priene’s picturesque ruins include several columns of the Temple of Athena, much of the city wall, a well-preserved theatre and a council chamber. We will continue to Miletus, one of the most important cities in the ancient Greek world and visited by St Paul on his third missionary journey. Here were Minoans, Mycenaeans and one-time allies of the Trojans. The city foolishly led a revolt of the Ionian Greek cities against the powerful Persian Empire who ruled until the arrival of Alexander in the 4th century BC. Here is a fine theatre, well laid out chessboard street plans, two agoras (marketplaces), baths, a council chamber, fortifications, stadium and harbour workings. After lunch on board we will have time to explore the colossal temple and oracle to Apollo in Didim.
Day 8 Patmos.
Of all the Greek islands, Patmos is the most sacred to Christians both Orthodox and Western and it was here that St John received his revelation. This morning we will make our way to the grotto of St John. This small cave, now converted into the beautiful chapel, is where the Saint lived, had his revelation and wrote ‘Book of the Apocalypse’. From here continue to the village of Chora, with its simple houses and Byzantine churches and climb to the Monastery of St John the Theologian. Upon entering into the courtyard, admire the intricate pebbled laid floor, decorated arches and frescoes adorning the entrance to the chapel of Christodoulos. Return to the MS Monet for lunch and the afternoon and evening are at leisure to explore the picturesque town of Skala.
Day 9 Kos.
According to myth, Kos was the homeland of the Giants. The island has given to the world Hippocrates, father of medicine, Pythagoras, and the 4th century painter Apelles. We will drive the short distance to the Asklepion, the infirmary of Antiquity, which was constructed in the 4th century BC. Among the ruins are part of the Doric Temple of Aesculapius, the altar and the Stoa which housed the famous Hippocrates Medical School. After lunch on board you have the afternoon to explore Kos Town at your own pace, maybe head to the once impregnable Castle of the Knights, the 3rd century BC Agora, see the museum housing fine mosaics or simply relax at one of the cafes in the squares.
Day 10 Rhodes to London.
Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for the return scheduled indirect flight to London.
Dates and Prices
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £200 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY
23rd September Itinerary
Prices per person based on double occupancy| 23 September to 2 October 2022 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| D Twin/Double with portholes on Camille/Parisien Deck | £3895 | £3695 |
| C Twin/Double with windows on Parisien/Lumiere Deck | £4095 | £3895 |
| B Superior Double with windows on Lumiere Deck | £4395 | £4195 |
| A Deluxe Double with windows on Lumiere Deck | £4795 | £4595 |
| D Twin/Double with portholes on Camille/Parisien Deck for sole use | £5195 | £4995 |
2nd October Itinerary
Prices per person based on double occupancy| 2 to 11 October 2022 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| D Twin/Double with portholes on Camille/Parisien Deck | £3895 | £3695 |
| C Twin/Double with windows on Parisien/Lumiere Deck | £4095 | £3895 |
| B Superior Double with windows on Lumiere Deck | £4395 | £4195 |
| A Deluxe Double with windows on Lumiere Deck | £4795 | £4595 |
| D Twin/Double with portholes on Camille/Parisien Deck for sole use | £5195 | £4995 |
Tour Reference Code: SCMO230921/SCMO021022
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Nine nights aboard the MS Monet on a full board basis • House wine, beer & soft drinks with lunch & dinner • Noble Caledonia onboard team • Shore excursions • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
Monet
We are delighted to have chartered the MS Monet, a 220 foot motor yacht accommodating a maximum of 50 guests, for a series of cruises through the Mediterranean in 2022. Originally built in 1970, MS Monet was converted and launched as a passenger ship in 1998, fully renovated in 2016 and upgraded again in 2018. If you find large resort style vessels accommodating many thousands of passengers attractive then of course this isn’t the vessel for you. However, if you prefer an informal and warm atmosphere more akin to a private yacht combined with an itinerary dedicated to both discovery and relaxation then you need look no further.
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Ship Directory
Please find below further details pertaining to the vessel or click on the booklet to download.We are delighted to have chartered the MS Monet, a 220 foot motor yacht accommodating a maximum of 50 guests, for a series of cruises through the Adriatic and Aegean. Originally built in 1970, MS Monet was converted and launched as a passenger ship in 1998, fully renovated in 2016 and upgraded again in 2018.
The public areas include a main lounge and bar with comfortable sofas on the Lumiere Deck, a restaurant located on the Parisian Deck and the Lumiere Open Deck al fresco dining area where meals can be enjoyed when weather permits. The gym can be found on the Parisian Deck and the Lumiere Sun Deck provides a delightful sun exposed space with sun loungers and a Jacuzzi, ideal for relaxation and fantastic views. The atmosphere on board is informal, warm and welcoming and dedicated to discovery and relaxation. We hope this information booklet answers any questions you may have pertaining to the vessel and wish you a pleasant voyage.
VESSEL TECHNICAL DETAILS
Cabins: 28
Crew: 29
Cruise Speed: 9 knots
Length: 68 metres
Width: 10 metres
Draft: 3.6 metres
Built: 1970, re-launched 1998, renovated 2016 & upgraded in 2018ADAPTORS
Adaptors for hairdryers, mobile phones etc. can be obtained from the Reception Desk. These should be returned to Reception at the end of the cruise.
AIR-CONDITIONING
The ship is centrally air-conditioned throughout.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
The ship uses a public address system to advise guests of all important information and activities during the cruise. Announcements in English can be heard throughout the public areas of the ship and in all cabins.
BAR/BEVERAGES
A selection of wines, spirits, soft drinks, tea, coffee and water are available to purchase from the bar. Beer, wine and soft drinks are included with lunch and dinner on board.
CABIN SIZES & FACILITIES
All cabins are designed for comfort and have twin beds or fixed double beds. Facilities include en-suite bathroom with shower, television, mini-bar, safe, central air-conditioning and hairdryer.
Category D (Camille & Parisian) cabins range in size from 9 to 14 square metres and feature two portholes. Please note that cabin numbers with twin beds are 104-107, 112, 119 & 205. All other cabins feature fixed double beds.
Category C (Parisian & Lumiere) cabins range in size from 12 to 14 square metres and feature a window. Please note that cabin numbers with twin beds are 210-215. All other cabins feature fixed double beds.
Category B (Lumiere) cabins are 17 square metres and feature windows and double bed.
Category A (Lumiere) cabins range in size from 21 to 22 square metres and feature windows and a double bed.
CRUISE DIRECTOR
A Noble Caledonia Cruise Director and Tour Manager will accompany you on your voyage.
CURRENCY
It is a good idea to exchange some of your funds at a bank before leaving home. Most international airports also exchange funds, though they often charge higher exchange fees. The ship does not facilitate any currency exchange on board. The currency on board the MS Monet is Euros.
DAILY PROGRAMME
A Daily Programme, detailing the following day’s arrangements as well as any specific information about the day’s activities is produced on board and delivered to your cabin each evening.
DIETARY REQUIREMENTS
If you have any dietary requirements such as vegetarian, low salt, gluten free and low cholesterol, please notify the Reservations Department in advance. We regret that not all dietary requirements can be guaranteed. If you have any specific or special foods that you require we recommend that you take some with you although we will endeavour to accommodate your needs. Once on board, please speak to the Chef or Hotel Manager at dinner on your first night to reconfirm your requirements.
DRESS CODE
On board the emphasis is on comfortable and casual clothing at all times. The dress code is very informal. You may like to wear smart casual clothing for the welcome and farewell dinners. Please note that no ties or jackets for gentlemen, and no formal dresses for ladies are required.
ELECTRICITY
Voltage is 220V/50Hz (European standard) and a 220V razor socket. This is only suitable for low voltage electrical appliances, e.g. mobile phone or camera charger. We recommend that you bring a two-pin European adaptor for the 220V plug. Hairdryers are provided for your convenience in the bathrooms. If you require electrical medical equipment, please notify the Reservations Department as soon as possible.
EMBARKATION/DISEMBARKATION
Embarkation and disembarkation times will be provided by your Cruise Director or Tour Manager.
EMERGENCY & SAFETY PROCEDURES
It is mandatory that all guests participate in the safety briefing, which is normally scheduled to take place prior to departure from the port of embarkation. In the unlikely event of an emergency you will be informed by a loudspeaker announcement. We ask you to collect your lifejacket from the cabin, proceed to the marked Muster Station and to follow instructions given by the Captain or crew members.
GRATUITIES
Gratuities have been included in your holiday price. GYM The Gym is located on the Parisian Deck.
HOUSEKEEPING
Housekeeping is available twice per day, in the morning and afternoon.
LAUNDRY SERVICE
There is a laundry service available at an additional charge. There is no dry cleaning service.
LIBRARY
There is a small library located in the Lounge.
LIFE JACKETS
The vessel is equipped with life jackets which can be located in the cabins. Additional life jackets can be obtained in the muster station from the crew.
LIFT
Please note that there is no lift on board.
LOST PROPERTY
Lost property should be handed to reception. Please ensure you have all of your belongings with you before you return home. Should you leave items on board the ship we are only able to return them to you at your own cost.
MAIL
Although reception staff are happy to post letters on your behalf, they may not be able to do so straightaway or at the port of call at which you make such a request. Some postal services are unreliable and letters or postcards that you ask to be delivered on your behalf may be delayed or even lost en route. Under no circumstances can we be held liable for such occurrences.
MEALS
Meals are served in a single seating with unassigned tables, for an informal atmosphere and easy mingling. Weather permitting, some meals are served al fresco on the Lumiere Deck. The menu is international, with a focus on local specialities.
MEDICAL SERVICES
MS Monet has crew members trained in first aid and medical services can be provided at ports of call.
OPERATIONAL CHANGES
Our planned schedule may be changed at short notice due to weather conditions or technical reasons. Should there be any alterations the Captain or Cruise Director will inform you of the changes.
PAYMENTS ON BOARD
All charges for services provided and products purchased on board must be settled in cash (Euros) or by credit card (Mastercard & VISA) before final disembarkation from the ship.
QUESTIONNAIRES
A questionnaire will be provided to all passengers towards the end of their sailing. We would be grateful for you to complete and return this. SAFE Your cabin is equipped with a personal safe. Please take great care with your money, jewellery, cameras, binoculars, documents and any other articles that you retain in your personal control.
SANITISERS
Please use the hand sanitisers near reception and the restaurant.
SMOKING
On MS Monet, the comfort, enjoyment and safety of all guests is paramount. All cabins are non-smoking. Smoking is only permitted on the open decks.
TOILETRIES
Shampoo, conditioner, shower gel and hand soap are provided in your bathroom.
VISITORS
For the safety and security of all passengers no visitors are allowed on board the ship.
WATER
The tap water on board is drinkable. There is also a water dispenser in the bar where water bottles can be refilled on request. One bottle of water is provided per passenger per day.
WI-FI
Complimentary Wi-Fi access is available on board. Please note that connection is dependent on weather conditions and location.
Please Note:
The information contained in this booklet should be used as a guideline only. Information is subject to change.
V.2 October 2019
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Deck plans
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Deckplan
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Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000