Istanbul’s iconic Blue MosqueThe spectacular Blue Mosque is one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks.
- Nessebar
Cruise Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast to this walled old town sited on a rocky peninsula.
- Views over Batumi
Enjoy a visit to one of Georgia’s most popular holiday resorts.
- The Dardanelles Strait
Your gateway from the Aegean Sea into the Black Sea.
Saga Cruises
Ancient Wonders of the Black Sea
Spirit of Adventure departing Southampton
from £8,957 per person2 passengers 32 nights 21st May 2022 Including optional travel insurance or a price reduction of £190 if not required
-
No fly
-
Chauffeur service
-
All Inclusive
Sail through the Bosphorus Strait
The Black Sea brings a unique flavour to this cruise with the alluring appeal of Odessa in Ukraine, the historic Romanian city of Constanza and the Bulgarian beach resort of Nessebar, with its rich medieval roots.
This 32-night cruise to the Black Sea unveils a beautiful region still shrouded in mystique with visits to seven vibrant cities in five different countries. This fascinating region has a wealth of colourful heritage, rich culture and magnificent scenery to uncover.
The Dardanelles Strait provides your gateway from the Aegean Sea, through the Sea of Marmara and into the Black Sea. Be sure to take your place on deck as Spirit of Adventure cruises through this internationally significant waterway, which has been fought over throughout history. Most notably, in 1915 during the Battle of Gallipoli in World War I.
Compare the understated architecture of Romania’s longest continually inhabited city Constanța and the UNESCO-listed city of Nessebar with the grand landmarks of Istanbul, such as the mighty Blue Mosque and the vast complex of Hagia Sophia. Experience the hustle and bustle of the city’s Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s largest and oldest covered markets in the world, where aromas of spice fill the air and the stalls overflow with colourful ceramics, silks, lanterns and more…
Your six sightseeing tours will be in
- Valletta, Malta
- Athens (from Pireus), Greece
- Odessa, Ukraine
- Trabzon, Turkey
- Istanbul, Turkey
- Lisbon, Portugal
View Full Itinerary
Ancient Wonders of the Black Sea
21/05/2022 Southampton
Southampton
Embark Spirit of Adventure.
Depart 1800.
22/05/2022 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
23/05/2022 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
24/05/2022 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
25/05/2022 Gibraltar
Gibraltar
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
You’ll be greeted by views of the iconic Rock of Gibraltar as Spirit of Adventure reaches this unique British enclave. Located at the tip of Iberia, Gibraltar is blessed by Mediterranean sunshine, and boasts a fascinating military history, as well as VAT-free shopping in familiar high street shops. The mighty Rock, famous for its impish Barbary apes, is hollowed out by a network of caves, tunnels and an interesting military museum – well worth a visit during your day ashore.
Alternatively, head to Europa Point, Europe's most southerly point, before enjoying high tea at the historic art deco Rock Hotel.
26/05/2022 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
27/05/2022 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
28/05/2022 La Goulette (for Tunis), Tunisia
La Goulette (for Tunis), Tunisia
Arrive 0800. Depart 1600.
Today Spirit of Adventure will cruise into La Goulette, the port for Tunis. The Tunisian capital is home to many archaeological sites, including the ancient remains of Carthage. The city centre itself is an eclectic mix of Berber and Arab cultures which can be discovered in the UNESCO-listed medieval Medina.
29/05/2022 Valletta, Malta
Valletta, Malta
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Malta marks the heart of the Mediterranean and history pervades every corner of its capital, Valletta, which was built by the Knights of St John in the 16th century. Look out for the honey-hued sandstone buildings, the finest of which has to be baroque St John's Co-Cathedral, during your included sightseeing tour. Alternatively, perhaps visit the nearby ‘Silent City’ – the ancient town of Mdina, so named for its traffic-free streets.
30/05/2022 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
31/05/2022 Piraeus (for Athens), Greece
Piraeus (for Athens), Greece
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
From Piraeus it's just a short hop into Athens, one of the great cities of antiquity, where many memorable sights await you. The iconic Acropolis and its 2,400-year-old Parthenon is a must-see attraction. Your included sightseeing tour also reveals Constitution Square, the Monument to the Unknown Soldier, the Temple of Zeus and the Olympic Stadium.
01/06/2022 Cruise The Dardanelles
Cruise The Dardanelles
This 38-kilometre long strait cuts between the Aegean and the Marmara Seas and provides a link between the Mediterranean Sea and the Black Sea.
02/06/2022 Constanza, Romania
Constanza, Romania
Arrive 0800. Depart 2000.
Set on the Black Sea Coast, legend has it that this is where Jason landed with his Argonauts after claiming the Golden Fleece. This ancient metropolis is also said to be Romania's longest continually inhabited city as well as its chief port. It comes as no surprise that Constanța is renowned for its outstanding seafood restaurants.
03/06/2022 Odessa, Ukraine
Odessa, Ukraine
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Odessa has a reputation as a lively, artistic and cultural centre and this morning you can join an included tour of this beautiful city which was founded by Catherine the Great in the 18th century. Its wealth of treasures includes three palaces, a 19th-century Opera House and the famous Potemkin Steps.
Perhaps climb this vast staircase from the harbour into the town, where you'll be greeted by a statue of Duke de Richelieu, Odessa's first mayor. Other sights include the Tolstoy Mansion, built in the 19th century and exquisitely preserved, and the eerie Odessa Catacombs, used by the Soviet army during World War II.
04/06/2022 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
05/06/2022 Batumi ⚓, Georgia
Batumi ⚓, Georgia
Arrive 0800. Depart 2000.
Set on the Black Sea coast close to the border with Turkey, Batumi is one of Georgia’s most popular holiday resorts. Backed by verdant mountains and plantations, its leafy streets feature many fine, restored historic buildings. Among the main sights are Batumi Cathedral and the Botanical Gardens, created during the city’s period of rule under Imperial Russia.
⚓ Land by launch or tender
06/06/2022 Trabzon, Turkey
Trabzon, Turkey
Arrive 0800. Depart 1600.
Trabzon is located on the historic Silk Road trading route and has been a melting-pot of religions, languages and cultures for centuries. The Old Town is still surrounded in part by defensive stone walls dating back to the Roman Empire. You’ll see some of the city’s historic architecture during your included sightseeing tour. Or, you may like to view the incredible Sumela Monastery, which clings precariously to a cliff face overlooking the lush surroundings of Altmdere National Park.
07/06/2022 Sinop, Turkey
Sinop, Turkey
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Wrapped around the isthmus of Ince Burun in the ancient Turkish region of Paphlagonia, the town of Sinop has a turbulent past. Destroyed by the Cimmerians, burnt by the Romans and reduced to ashes again by the Russian navy during the Crimean War, it’s no surprise that the town’s monuments are mostly ruins. A ruined citadel, rebuilt during the Byzantine and Seljuq periods, several isolated columns and inscribed stones set within old walls and dating from the early Greek and Roman periods, and the 13th-century Alseddin Cami mosque can still be seen here.
08/06/2022 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
09/06/2022 Varna, Bulgaria
Varna, Bulgaria
Arrive 0800. Depart 2000.
Packed with history yet thoroughly modern, Varna is one of the most interesting and cosmopolitan cities on the Black Sea coast. The city centre is home to Bulgaria’s largest Roman baths complex and finest archaeological museums, as well as a lively cultural and culinary scene. The city also boasts a huge park and lengthy beach for outdoor activities.
10/06/2022 Nessebar ⚓, Bulgaria
Nessebar ⚓, Bulgaria
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Virtually an island, the walled old town of Nessebar sits on a rocky peninsula and is linked to the new town on the mainland by a narrow man-made isthmus. The maze of narrow, cobbled lanes are dotted with remains of Roman and Middle Age forts, numerous Byzantine churches, and wooden houses from the National Revival period of the 18th and 19th centuries.
⚓ Land by launch or tender
11/06/2022 Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul, Turkey
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
East and west collide in this transcontinental city which straddles the Bosphorus Strait, and an included tour offers the perfect introduction to this vibrant metropolis. Originally named Constantinople by the Romans, a city has stood here for almost three millennia, ruled by various empires from the Greeks to the Ottomans, and as a result, Istanbul simply oozes history.
Contrast two of its greatest mosques, the extraordinary Blue Mosque, so called for its blue mosaic tile work, with the ancient St Sophia – an exquisite example of Byzantine architecture that dates back to the 6th century.
12/06/2022 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
13/06/2022 Heraklion, Crete
Heraklion, Crete
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Admire the Venetian fortress of Rocca al Mare as you approach Heraklion, by far the biggest city on Crete and one of the five largest in Greece. The city centre is still surrounded by huge walls built by the Venetians and is renowned for its lively markets. Perhaps uncover the ancient history of Crete by visiting the Palace of Knossos, court of the legendary King Minos whose wife Pasiphae gave birth to the Minotaur, half-bull, half-man. From here you can continue to Arolithos, a fascinating replica of a typical Cretan village.
14/06/2022 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
15/06/2022 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
16/06/2022 Cagliari, Italy
Cagliari, Italy
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
3,000 years in the making, Sardinia’s hillside capital creates quite the impression as you arrive by sea. From a beautiful beach, to an array of museums and monuments, there’s plenty to see and do. Explore the narrow, winding streets that lead up to the old quarter, discover the two white stone medieval towers and wander through the 16th-century church. Alternatively, join a tour of the coastal ruins of Nora, where you can see ancient mosaics.
17/06/2022 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
18/06/2022 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
19/06/2022 Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon, Portugal
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Cruise under the impressive 25 de April suspension bridge, often compared to San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge, to reach Lisbon’s elegant capital. Renowned for its array of architectural styles, in particular the Moorish Alfama district, Lisbon contains a host of must-see attractions.
The colourful 18th-century squares are home to such historical delights as Belém Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Monument to the Discoveries – both reminders of Portugal’s seafaring prowess. An included sightseeing tour provides a great introduction to the area.
20/06/2022 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
21/06/2022 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
22/06/2022 Southampton
Southampton
Arrive 0700.
Disembark Spirit of Adventure after breakfast.
Please note: Some of the highlights detailed may only be seen on optional excursions or by exploring independently.
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1
Southampton
-
2
At Sea
-
3
At Sea
-
4
At Sea
-
5
Gibraltar
-
6
At Sea
-
7
At Sea
-
8
La Goulette (for Tunis), Tunisia
-
9
Valletta, Malta
-
10
At Sea
-
11
Piraeus (for Athens), Greece
-
12
Cruise The Dardanelles
-
13
Constanza, Romania
-
14
Odessa, Ukraine
-
15
At Sea
-
16
Batumi ⚓, Georgia
-
17
Trabzon, Turkey
-
18
Sinop, Turkey
-
19
At Sea
-
20
Varna, Bulgaria
-
21
Nessebar ⚓, Bulgaria
-
22
Istanbul, Turkey
-
23
At Sea
-
24
Heraklion, Crete
-
25
At Sea
-
26
At Sea
-
27
Cagliari, Italy
-
28
At Sea
-
29
At Sea
-
30
Lisbon, Portugal
-
31
At Sea
-
32
At Sea
-
33
Southampton
-
21st May
Southampton
1Southampton
Embark Spirit of Adventure.
Depart 1800.
-
22nd May
At Sea
-
23rd May
At Sea
-
24th May
At Sea
-
25th May
Gibraltar
5Gibraltar
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
You’ll be greeted by views of the iconic Rock of Gibraltar as Spirit of Adventure reaches this unique British enclave. Located at the tip of Iberia, Gibraltar is blessed by Mediterranean sunshine, and boasts a fascinating military history, as well as VAT-free shopping in familiar high street shops. The mighty Rock, famous for its impish Barbary apes, is hollowed out by a network of caves, tunnels and an interesting military museum – well worth a visit during your day ashore.
Alternatively, head to Europa Point, Europe's most southerly point, before enjoying high tea at the historic art deco Rock Hotel.
-
26th May
At Sea
-
27th May
At Sea
-
28th May
La Goulette (for Tunis), Tunisia
8La Goulette (for Tunis), Tunisia
Arrive 0800. Depart 1600.
Today Spirit of Adventure will cruise into La Goulette, the port for Tunis. The Tunisian capital is home to many archaeological sites, including the ancient remains of Carthage. The city centre itself is an eclectic mix of Berber and Arab cultures which can be discovered in the UNESCO-listed medieval Medina.
-
29th May
Valletta, Malta
9Valletta, Malta
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Malta marks the heart of the Mediterranean and history pervades every corner of its capital, Valletta, which was built by the Knights of St John in the 16th century. Look out for the honey-hued sandstone buildings, the finest of which has to be baroque St John's Co-Cathedral, during your included sightseeing tour. Alternatively, perhaps visit the nearby ‘Silent City’ – the ancient town of Mdina, so named for its traffic-free streets.
-
30th May
At Sea
-
31st May
Piraeus (for Athens), Greece
11Piraeus (for Athens), Greece
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
From Piraeus it's just a short hop into Athens, one of the great cities of antiquity, where many memorable sights await you. The iconic Acropolis and its 2,400-year-old Parthenon is a must-see attraction. Your included sightseeing tour also reveals Constitution Square, the Monument to the Unknown Soldier, the Temple of Zeus and the Olympic Stadium.
-
1st June
Cruise The Dardanelles
12Cruise The Dardanelles
This 38-kilometre long strait cuts between the Aegean and the Marmara Seas and provides a link between the Mediterranean Sea and the Black Sea.
-
2nd June
Constanza, Romania
13Constanza, Romania
Arrive 0800. Depart 2000.
Set on the Black Sea Coast, legend has it that this is where Jason landed with his Argonauts after claiming the Golden Fleece. This ancient metropolis is also said to be Romania's longest continually inhabited city as well as its chief port. It comes as no surprise that Constanța is renowned for its outstanding seafood restaurants.
-
3rd June
Odessa, Ukraine
14Odessa, Ukraine
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Odessa has a reputation as a lively, artistic and cultural centre and this morning you can join an included tour of this beautiful city which was founded by Catherine the Great in the 18th century. Its wealth of treasures includes three palaces, a 19th-century Opera House and the famous Potemkin Steps.
Perhaps climb this vast staircase from the harbour into the town, where you'll be greeted by a statue of Duke de Richelieu, Odessa's first mayor. Other sights include the Tolstoy Mansion, built in the 19th century and exquisitely preserved, and the eerie Odessa Catacombs, used by the Soviet army during World War II.
-
4th June
At Sea
-
5th June
Batumi ⚓, Georgia
16Batumi ⚓, Georgia
Arrive 0800. Depart 2000.
Set on the Black Sea coast close to the border with Turkey, Batumi is one of Georgia’s most popular holiday resorts. Backed by verdant mountains and plantations, its leafy streets feature many fine, restored historic buildings. Among the main sights are Batumi Cathedral and the Botanical Gardens, created during the city’s period of rule under Imperial Russia.
⚓ Land by launch or tender
-
6th June
Trabzon, Turkey
17Trabzon, Turkey
Arrive 0800. Depart 1600.
Trabzon is located on the historic Silk Road trading route and has been a melting-pot of religions, languages and cultures for centuries. The Old Town is still surrounded in part by defensive stone walls dating back to the Roman Empire. You’ll see some of the city’s historic architecture during your included sightseeing tour. Or, you may like to view the incredible Sumela Monastery, which clings precariously to a cliff face overlooking the lush surroundings of Altmdere National Park.
-
7th June
Sinop, Turkey
18Sinop, Turkey
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Wrapped around the isthmus of Ince Burun in the ancient Turkish region of Paphlagonia, the town of Sinop has a turbulent past. Destroyed by the Cimmerians, burnt by the Romans and reduced to ashes again by the Russian navy during the Crimean War, it’s no surprise that the town’s monuments are mostly ruins. A ruined citadel, rebuilt during the Byzantine and Seljuq periods, several isolated columns and inscribed stones set within old walls and dating from the early Greek and Roman periods, and the 13th-century Alseddin Cami mosque can still be seen here.
-
8th June
At Sea
-
9th June
Varna, Bulgaria
20Varna, Bulgaria
Arrive 0800. Depart 2000.
Packed with history yet thoroughly modern, Varna is one of the most interesting and cosmopolitan cities on the Black Sea coast. The city centre is home to Bulgaria’s largest Roman baths complex and finest archaeological museums, as well as a lively cultural and culinary scene. The city also boasts a huge park and lengthy beach for outdoor activities.
-
10th June
Nessebar ⚓, Bulgaria
21Nessebar ⚓, Bulgaria
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Virtually an island, the walled old town of Nessebar sits on a rocky peninsula and is linked to the new town on the mainland by a narrow man-made isthmus. The maze of narrow, cobbled lanes are dotted with remains of Roman and Middle Age forts, numerous Byzantine churches, and wooden houses from the National Revival period of the 18th and 19th centuries.
⚓ Land by launch or tender
-
11th June
Istanbul, Turkey
22Istanbul, Turkey
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
East and west collide in this transcontinental city which straddles the Bosphorus Strait, and an included tour offers the perfect introduction to this vibrant metropolis. Originally named Constantinople by the Romans, a city has stood here for almost three millennia, ruled by various empires from the Greeks to the Ottomans, and as a result, Istanbul simply oozes history.
Contrast two of its greatest mosques, the extraordinary Blue Mosque, so called for its blue mosaic tile work, with the ancient St Sophia – an exquisite example of Byzantine architecture that dates back to the 6th century.
-
12th June
At Sea
-
13th June
Heraklion, Crete
24Heraklion, Crete
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Admire the Venetian fortress of Rocca al Mare as you approach Heraklion, by far the biggest city on Crete and one of the five largest in Greece. The city centre is still surrounded by huge walls built by the Venetians and is renowned for its lively markets. Perhaps uncover the ancient history of Crete by visiting the Palace of Knossos, court of the legendary King Minos whose wife Pasiphae gave birth to the Minotaur, half-bull, half-man. From here you can continue to Arolithos, a fascinating replica of a typical Cretan village.
-
14th June
At Sea
-
15th June
At Sea
-
16th June
Cagliari, Italy
27Cagliari, Italy
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
3,000 years in the making, Sardinia’s hillside capital creates quite the impression as you arrive by sea. From a beautiful beach, to an array of museums and monuments, there’s plenty to see and do. Explore the narrow, winding streets that lead up to the old quarter, discover the two white stone medieval towers and wander through the 16th-century church. Alternatively, join a tour of the coastal ruins of Nora, where you can see ancient mosaics.
-
17th June
At Sea
-
18th June
At Sea
-
19th June
Lisbon, Portugal
30Lisbon, Portugal
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Cruise under the impressive 25 de April suspension bridge, often compared to San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge, to reach Lisbon’s elegant capital. Renowned for its array of architectural styles, in particular the Moorish Alfama district, Lisbon contains a host of must-see attractions.
The colourful 18th-century squares are home to such historical delights as Belém Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Monument to the Discoveries – both reminders of Portugal’s seafaring prowess. An included sightseeing tour provides a great introduction to the area.
-
20th June
At Sea
-
21st June
At Sea
-
22nd June
Southampton
33Southampton
Arrive 0700.
Disembark Spirit of Adventure after breakfast.
Please note: Some of the highlights detailed may only be seen on optional excursions or by exploring independently.
Itinerary map for Ancient Wonders of the Black Sea
Chauffeur service up to 250 miles
Chauffeur service up to 250 miles
This service is a private chauffeur for distances up to 75 miles each way, and a shared chauffeur service from 76-250 miles each way.
Don't want to chauffeur? No problem. We'll also be happy to arrange complimentary car parking near the port, or can provide included rail/coach tickets, or even free flights from your local airport, subject to availability.
Travel insurance
Travel insurance
Optional comprehensive travel insurance, underwritten by Great Lakes Insurance SE, UK Branch, and additional cancellation rights. If you have your own insurance, we will offer you the holiday at a lower price.
All meals
All meals
All meals and snacks on board.
Afternoon Tea
Afternoon Tea
Daily afternoon tea.
A Choice of wines
A Choice of wines
A choice of wines at lunch and dinner.
All Inclusive
All Inclusive
Includes selected wines at lunch and dinner, Saga house-branded spirits, cocktails containing house-branded spirits, draught beer and lager, non-alcoholic cocktails, all mixers and soft drinks.
Gratuities
Gratuities
All on-board 'tips' and bar service charges.
Entertainment and Activities
Entertainment and Activities
A full programme of live music, entertainment and talks.
Gym, sauna & exercise classes
Gym, sauna & exercise classes
Gym, sauna and exercise classes.
24-hour room service
24-hour room service
24-hour room service is available at no extra charge.
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi
Welcome cocktail party
Welcome cocktail party
Welcome cocktail party and Captain’s dinner.
Porterage of luggage
Porterage of luggage
When you arrive at the port in Dover or Southampton we’ll even carry the bags, with included porterage right to your cabin.
Shuttle bus
Shuttle bus
Free shuttle bus at most ports wherever possible, and when the ship is berthed at least 500 yards away from the nearest town centre.
Sightseeing Tours
Sightseeing Tours
Six sightseeing tours will be in
Valletta, Malta
Athens (from Pireus), Greece
Odessa, Ukraine
Trabzon, Turkey
Istanbul, Turkey
Lisbon, Portugal
All inclusiveEnjoy an unlimited selection of drinks in all the on-board bars and lounges.
The Living RoomRelax in one of the many sociable spaces on the ship.
SpaLook forward to included access to a range of wellbeing services.
EntertainmentEnjoy a colourful show in The Playhouse theatre.
Enjoy fine cuisineMake the most of free-to-dine speciality restaurants.
The Dining RoomThe main restaurant brings you the finest in British and international cuisine.
The VerandahDine with stunning alfresco views.
On board activitiesTry shuffleboard and deck quoits, or play virtual golf at sea.
Explore Ashore
Istanbul’s iconic Blue Mosque
The spectacular Blue Mosque is one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks with its dazzling blue tiles, cascading domes and six towering minarets that pierce the skyline. This impressive structure was constructed between 1609 and 1616, during the rule of Ahmed I.
The Sumela Monastery
Trabzon offers a gateway to the verdant Altmdere Valley where this incredible UNESCO-listed monastic complex clings precariously to the cliff face. According to legend the Virgin Mary appeared before two Athenian monks and asked them to build a monastery in an isolated valley. Construction began in 385 AD and the structure has been expanded throughout the centuries. It now has over 72 rooms, including a chapel adorned with vibrant frescoes.
Climbing the Potemkin Stairs
Odessa’s immense stairway was designed by Italian architect Francesco Boofo and constructed in 1825. The 192 steps lead from the city to the harbour and were originally known as the Primorsky Stairs. They were renamed in honour of the 50th anniversary of the mutiny on the Battleship Potemkin, an event which was retold in Eisenstein’s film Battleship Potemkin.
Spirit of Adventure departing Southampton
from £8,957 per person2 passengers
32 nights 21st May 2022 Including optional travel insurance or a price reduction of £190 if not required
