From Ashdod’s port, it’s a just a short ride to Jerusalem’s land of incredible religious significance and cultural wonder. A city like no other, Jerusalem is a melting pot of traditions, and a place of staggering complexity and immeasurably deep, impactful history. It’s almost impossible to fully digest Jerusalem’s importance in the scriptures of the world’s largest religions Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, and this collision of faiths helps to make it one of the world’s most fascinating locations. The Old City is the focal point for much of the religious reverence, with aged buildings from the world’s major faiths jostling for space, and melodic calls to prayer echoing down tight stone streets. Stroll the walkways to travel between deeply contrasting quarters, where you can sample roughly ripped pita bread, dipped into fresh, flavourful hummus. A place of unbridled passion and importance - but also extraordinary beauty - it’s easy to get swept away in the raw emotion that Jerusalem generates. Visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, which archaeologists believe stands on the site where Jesus was crucified. Inside, emotional worshipers kneel before the stone where his body was wrapped in cloth in preparation for burial. The Wailing Wall is another place where passions run high, as worshipers place their folded messages into the wall’s cracks. Temple Mount’s golden dome glints in the sun nearby, signifying another point of pilgrimage for Jews - and for Muslims, who believe it is the place where Muhammad ascended to heaven.

At less than 45 kilometres from Nazareth, Haifa is often neglected when it comes to travel experiences. And understandably so, as Nazareth is definitely the superstar of the region. The pilgrimage site is certainly a must for all believers of all denominations, and the chance of seeing where Jesus spent his childhood is too good an opportunity to pass up for some. If, however you go expecting to find a bucolic utopia then think again. Nazareth today is bustling modern hub of a mega metropolis, which has grown up around the crumbling walls of the Old City. Nazareth Old City is stunning, and the historic sites where Jesus is believed to have lived and preached prior to his death are certainly bucket list. These include the Basilica of the Annunciation, where the Angel Gabriel visited Mary to inform her of her virgin birth, the Church of Joseph, the ancient site of Joseph’s carpentry shop and Cana (located on the shores of the Sea of Galilee), where Jesus performed his first miracle of turning water into wine. But that is not to say that Haifa itself is not worth a visit. The city – the third largest in Israel after Tel Aviv and Jerusalem – is a mosaic of cultures and faiths, with Jews, Christians, Muslims and Baháʼís all living peacefully side by side. The Baháʼí Gardens, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, are without a doubt the city’s main attraction. Set on the flanks of Mont Carmel and sloping into the Mediterranean Sea, both the gardens and the city offer stunning views.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Combining a touch of Venetian beauty with Crete’s rugged landscape and dazzling beaches, Chania is an enchanting welcome to this legendary Greek island. Waterfront restaurants spill out onto the gorgeous 14th-century Venetian harbour, which hums with clinking coffee cups and laidback chatter during sunny afternoons. Later, the sounds of popping corks and rattling cocktail shakers take over, as the harbour’s lights sparkle romantically, and the stars glitter overhead. Chania is Crete’s second largest, and undoubtedly its most beautiful, town. The showpiece harbour is a cluster of colourful buildings, guiding you amiably towards the scenic old town - a mesmerising interplay of narrow cobbled streets. There’s a Turkish touch to some of the architecture, and the dusty domes of an Ottoman-era, former mosque overlook the undulating waterfront. It now serves as a unique venue for art exhibitions. Wander out across the thin sea walls to the 16th-century lighthouse – a charming hodgepodge of architectural styles, with influences from the major occupations of Crete’s history. Leave the gentle clamour of the old town to unwind on luxurious Agia Marina, a coral-specked stretch of clear turquoise water, lapping gently against a band of soft golden sand. Bali’s beaches are another option, with curves of protected sandy sheltering inside rocky coves. Flip through the pages of a paperback, or enjoy strolls with the lazy loll of the waves washing over your feet. Back in the city, settle in to eat on that evocative waterfront, and rip freshly-baked bread, drizzled with golden olive oil, squeezed from olive groves nearby. Afterwards, enjoy platters of mussels, prawns and grilled sea bream from the Cretan waters. Be sure to try local mizithra - a rich, creamy cheese with echoes of ricotta.

Loggerhead turtles patrol the clear, calm waters of Cephalonia island, which rises majestically out of the Ionian’s emerald green haze. A place of simple, fundamental pleasures, discover this island where lazy waves lap against long, sweeping expanses of silky sand, and contented laughter echoes above tables groaning with platefuls of fresh seafood and generously splashed wine. It’s not always been this peaceful, however. Having survived German and Italian occupations - and the bloodshed of the Greek Civil war - Cephalonia was finally overcome by a devastating earthquake in 1953, which razed practically every structure during a hellish half-minute of destruction. Nowadays, Cephalonia is a heavenly mirage of idyllic beaches, all overlooked by the huge rise of Mount Aenos - a black-pine coated mountain where wild ponies roam freely. Wander the shorefront of Argostoli - along the bustling harbour - and keep an eye out for fishermen lobbing their rejected haul back into the waves. Chances are this daily ritual will summon the loggerhead turtles who cruise these waters and gather to enjoy the free feast. Tuck into a feast of your own in Argostoli’s central Vallianos Square, where mandolins and guitars interplay, and locals wine and dine in shaded bars. Spectacular - if a little hair-raising - roads lace the island, and you can venture out to Vouti Beach to discover crystal-clear waters shifting in hue through the full ombre of blues. Take a long, undisturbed swim in the warm waters, surrounded by flashing fish life and huge, loosely scattered rocks. A refreshing tossed Greek salad awaits on the shore. Fiskardo, meanwhile, is one of the island’s prettiest harbours, where a hubbub of colourful fishing boats are moored within touching distance of tavernas, serving up deliciously grilled sea bream and anchovies.

This sickle-shaped island of Mediterranean bliss flaunts its sun-kissed sophistication with effortless grace - having cherry-picked the best influences from Venetian, French and British occupiers. With over 3,000 years of history, The Grand Lady of the Ionian has played a starring role in Greek history and mythology, and legendary tales swirl around you, as you explore sparkling beaches, mountains splashed with wildflowers, and historical, perched fortresses. The soft hues of Corfu’s UNESCO World Heritage List Old Town brings together Corfu’s mesh of European influences, with its romantic stone floors and vine-clad cafes. Find somewhere to settle in for a morning coffee ritual like a true Corfiat, and sip at the laid-back pace of the locals - allowing the thick bitter concoction to settle before indulging. The oddly out-of-place sound of leather on willow can be heard in Spianada Square – the largest city square in the Balkan region - where a manicured cricket pitch spreads out incongruously below the Mediterranean sun. Take the hike up to the 13th-century Paleokastritsa Monastery, where you’ll be escorted by the resident goats, and have to step over cats contentedly rolling around your feet on arrival. This beautiful, daffodil-yellow building is splashed with a fresco of vivid purple fuchsias, and a crowning triad of bells. Inside, explore gold-framed frescoes, and watch as monks squeeze oil from the monastery’s trees’ bounty. Wander out among the groves to views of Corfu’s never-ending sea reaching out to the horison below you. Corfu’s sweeping sand beaches and hidden coves display the full spectrum of vivid Mediterranean seaside colours – which shift from turquoise greens to cobalt blues. The famous Canal d’Amour is a gorgeous inlet, and island legend says couples who swim together in this narrow channel of water stay together forever. Enjoy an afternoon sit-down and drink of ginger tea, or something a little stronger in the form of Corfu’s famous, radiant orange, kumquat liqueur.

Croatia’s crowning glory rears up vertically from the tranquil waters of the Adriatic, and Dubrovnik’s daunting fortresses town is a truly imposing sight to behold. Encircled by chunky stone walls so thick and dramatic they could have been purpose-built as a film set, this city’s unmatched old town is the setting for countless films and shows - from Star Wars to Robin Hood, Game of Thrones and every production in-between seeking a truly authentic medieval flavour. This fantasy fortress’s walls - which are no less than 12-metres thick at places - are certainly not just for show, however. They kept Dubrovnik safe when it was a maritime republic and they were besieged as recently as 1991, when Serbian and Montenegrin forces attacked, as Yugoslavia broke apart. Fully restored now, the stone streets of the city take you through a beautiful mosaic of architectural splendour, baroque churches and splashing fountains. Tapering alleys rocket up from the central boulevard of Stradun, offering spectacular views down, but you’ll need to walk the city walls to appreciate the fortress city’s full scale. Banking up sharply to the rear, you can gaze across an ocean of terracotta roofs and church spires, clamouring together before the sparkling Adriatic. Visit the neighbouring fort of Lovrijenac, for another perspective, or swing up to Srd fortress’s glorious panorama on a cable car. Dubrovnik’s streets are crammed with eateries and candlelit tables, where couples splash wine into glasses and enjoy gnocchi mixed with creamy truffle sauces. Nearby beaches like Banje are also close by, and hidden bays reward the intrepid who venture out beyond the old town. Take sunset drinks to sit back and watch as flotillas of sea kayaks roll by, or sail on the pristine waters to explore island gems like Lokrum - where peacocks are the only permanent residents.

Croatia's fractured Adriatic coast is scattered with hundreds of islands - but few can match the elegant beauty of lovely Korčula. Tucked away behind bustling Hvar, Croatia’s sixth-largest island is a little harder to reach, making for a more peaceful affair. Decorated with beautiful medieval fortifications, time stands still as you stroll narrow paths, cutting between the stone facades of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Hear the stomps of feet and clacks of swords rattling off of the walls, during traditional Moreška performances - an enchanting, authentic sword dance. Revelin Tower looms over the grand entrance to the walled old town - nicknamed Little Dubrovnik - which was built and fortified in 1485 to protect Korčula. The island is also said to be the birthplace of Marco Polo, and his former house contains a narrow staircase leading to Marco Polo Tower, which peeks above the tight streets. The majestic Cathedral of St. Mark also rises high, and you'll spot the gorgeous vaulted bell tower, framed between narrow alleyways. Climb to the top for views of the red roof cluster, and sparkling Adriatic below. A beautiful island to explore, its dark blanket of pine tree forest led to the Greek's naming the island, Korkyra Melaina - or Black Corfu. Explore the gorgeous ring of coastline, which is lined with pebble beaches, sandy bays and hidden coves. Or, indulge in the island's tastes - like luxurious olive oils and white wines grown from grapes including posip, and grk - cultivated only on this island.

Set on the dazzling Adriatic, where the Krka River opens out into the blue, island-peppered waters, Šibenik is a stone-clad city that oozes Dalmatian medieval charm. Gorgeous Krka National Park gushes with famously picturesque waterfalls close by, while the World Heritage Sites of Croatia’s oldest native town have endless stories to tell. Rising from the shadow of popular neighbours Split and Zadar, Šibenik is successfully establishing itself as an unmissable Dalmatian city thanks to its timeless grace and 30 hidden churches and monasteries - which ring their bells above a wash of terracotta roofs. Dominating the tight streets of the charming old town - where ice cream vendors spoon out fruity flavours, and footsteps rattle along stone streets - is the magnificent Cathedral St. James UNESCO World Heritage site. Taking more than a century to construct, it is built from stone in a Gothic-Renaissance style and adorned with 71 sculptured heads - each displaying its own personality. Look closely, to notice the bullet holes embedded in the door – reminders of the fierce fighting that raged here, during the Croatian War of Independence. St. Michael’s Fortress stands on a hill above the city, providing the perfect viewpoint to see Šibenik rolling towards the stunning archipelago, which punctuates the turquoise Adriatic. Part of the fortress is now used as an open-air stage, forming an ethereal venue for performances. St. Nicholas Fortress is another UNESCO protected site and was built where the monastery of St. Nicholas once stood. Further afield, the beautiful old town of Trogir is close by, along with the Roman ruins of Salona.

With a sweeping old town of Venetian architecture, sing-song Italian emanating from its cafes, and even a fountain that honours the Rialto Bridge - you could be forgiven for thinking that you’d stepped off the boat into the Floating City itself, while exploring Koper. Formerly an island, Koper was linked artificially to the Slovenian mainland in 1825. It now serves as the only major port of Slovenia, and basks in the sun of the Istrian coast, which offers an alluring blend of the best of Croatian, Slovenian and Italian. The nation’s capital, Ljubljana, also lies within easy reach. A working city, with plenty of charm below its sea of terracotta roofs, the picturesque Tito square lies at Koper’s heart. The Cathedral of Assumption - with its narrow bell tower dating back to 1664 - when the city was a regional capital of Venice’s republic - rises above the square, and towers over the narrow streets nearby. Take a deep breath and climb the 200 steps for a stunning panorama of the city. Or, simply soak up the atmosphere with a wander through Čevljarska Ulica – a set of cobbled streets adorned with artisan shops, small bars and restaurants. Soak up the sights of Koper, the country’s oldest town, or make for the Slovenian capital Ljubljana - to discover a lively city of green parks, leafy open spaces, and pedestrianised boulevards. The pretty Ljubljana River stretches through the city’s heart, providing casual strolls and charming bike rides. Nearby, encounter a scene from a fairy-tale, as you see the breathlessly picturesque Bled Castle emerging from a tiny island in the centre of a cloudy-blue, alpine lake.

Losing none of its allure over the years, this floating city of canals, bridges and masks is a place of eternal beauty and enduring elegance. The lagoon of more than 100 islands is a heavenly sight, transporting visitors on a journey through time - from its Roman inception, through centuries of trade to the modern face we see today. Navigate Venice’s sparkling waterways by romantic gondola, or on cruises along wide canal boulevards. Span the Grand Canal over its iconic original crossing, the Rialto Bridge, which - with its parade of tiny shops - gives some of the city’s most endearing views. If the crowds unsettle you at any point, take two turns away from the main thoroughfares to find peace alone, amid the city's labyrinth of tiny streets. Hurry to Piazza San Marco to be immersed in Venice’s elegant glory. Basilica San Marco transports you back to the wealthy days of the Doges, who ruled for over 1,000 years. Initially their private chapel, it’s now decorated with beautiful Byzantine mosaics. Nearby the Campanile di San Marco bell tower offers views over the higgledy-piggledy rooftops of times gone by. Just a hop skip and a jump around the corner is the Doge’s Palace, where the levels of opulence ramp up even further. Justice was meted out in this stunning Palace, with the guilty walking to the cells across the covered Bridge of Sighs. Vaporetto trips to local islands offer even more adventures to float your boat, whether it’s Murano with its world-famous glass, Torcello with its amazing Cathedrals, or Burano with its handmade lace and delightfully colourful painted houses.

The excursions are provided as a sample of what may be offered on this voyage and are subject to change.