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Sicilian Splendors

May 19, 2027 — May 29, 2027

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CIVITAVECCHIA, ROME → CIVITAVECCHIA, ROME

10 Nights on Star Legend

Encircle the Isle of Sicily and discover sparkling resorts favored by emperors, towns frozen in time by legendary volcanoes, Maltese palaces where knights and Grand Masters once gathered … this itinerary has them all. Watch the stunning Amalfi Coast pass by from the deck of your intimate ship and raise a glass of limoncello to another blissful day in the warm Mediterranean sunshine.

Popular Highlights

Watch sunbeams from Michelangelo’s dome play on the walls of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.

The ancient ruins of Syracuse, including the Greek Theatre, the Ear of Dionysius, and the fascinating Syracuse Caves, offer a captivating glimpse into the island's historical and architectural heritage.

Relive the Middle Ages as you view the historic tapestries and armor in Valletta’s Palace of the Grand Masters.

Walk the silent streets of Pompeii in the shadow of Mount Vesuvius.

From Trapani travel to the medieval town of Erice and admire the Castle of Venus and the 700-year-old Mother Church.

Take in some of the world's best-preserved Greek ruins at the Valley of the Temples.

Additional Information

Placed like a stepping-stone between the boot of Italy and the tip of Tunisia, Sicily has been in a cultural tug of war for centuries. Its location at the crossroads of the Mediterranean has attracted merchants, invaders, and immigrants. First the Phoenicians, Greeks, and Romans. Then Byzantines, Arabs, and Vikings. Finally, Normans, Germans, and Spaniards. In the process, these diverse cultures have seasoned everything from the island’s language to its cuisine. Part European, part African, it’s still Italy, only with cacti and palm trees, souk-like markets, couscous and saffron.

The fertile volcanic soil supports hillside groves of olives, almonds, pistachios, oranges, and lemons. Historic ruins are everywhere. And encircling it all are over 280 beaches, from stunning black to velvety white to Lipari’s silvery-gray. But of all the attractions you’ll find here (and there are many), one of the best is Sicily’s authenticity. The island is what Italy used to be, and as we visit smaller ports like Xlendi and Porto Empedocle and get to know the people, you’ll find it hard to pick a favorite.

• Street food is very popular in Sicily and it can give you a real taste of the island’s multicultural background. The cuisine is different than mainland Italy’s, and blends both European and African influences. Rice balls, eggplant, pasta, fava beans—the flavors are varied and delicious.
• Sicily has some of the best ancient Greek ruins outside of Greece, from temples to theaters where the acoustics still astound scientists today. Some of the best are at the Valley of the Temples at Agrigento, and the theaters in Taormina and Ancient Syracuse.
• Most businesses in Sicily take a siesta in the afternoon, often lasting from 1:00 until 4 or 5. Plan ahead if you plan to do any shopping.
• Sicily is not flat, in fact it’s 85 percent hills and mountains. There are also lots of stairs and uneven cobblestones. So bring your best walking shoes if you’re going to explore on foot.
• If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path day trip from Catania, consider the baroque towns of the Val di Noto. These UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Noto Valley were all rebuilt in a unique late Baroque style after an earthquake in 1693.

Map routes may vary by sailing. Actual itineraries are listed below.

MAY 19, 2027

Rome

EMBARK

1:00 PM

DEPART

5:00 PM

MARINA

SHORE EXCURSIONS

In this enchanting city the past and present intersect in perfect harmony. Casually intermingled among ancient ruins and majestic cathedrals are the trappings of a modern metropolis: Skyscrapers,cafes, boutiques selling designer footwear. But of course what you seek first in the heart of Rome is its breathtaking history. A good place to begin is the Vatican, with its Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica. Works by Bernini, Michelangelo, Caravaggio, and Raphael are just a few of those on display, any one of which is worth hours of contemplation. Then the ancient ruins-Colosseum, Forum, Circus Maximus. And of course the Trevi Fountain for the obligatory coins promising your return to the Eternal City.

MAY 20, 2027

Cruising Stromboli, Italy

ARRIVE

4:00 PM

DEPART

11:00 PM

MARINA

SHORE EXCURSIONS

Weather conditions depending, you will see the volcano that never sleeps as you cruise by Stromboli and with any luck observe the active lava stream by day or the glowing lava at night.

MAY 21, 2027

Lipari

ARRIVE

8:00 AM

DEPART

6:00 PM

MARINA

SHORE EXCURSIONS

Take time on shore to explore the beautiful village and enjoy the exclusive access that only a small ship can provide in a port large cruise ships cannot reach. An optional tour will introduce you to the highlights of the largest of the seven Aeolian Islands, well-known for its mythological connections and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Available Excursions

Lipari

Time

8:30 AM

Duration

3.5 Hours

Activity Level

Strenuous

Strenuous

Add during booking

$99

MAY 22, 2027

Palermo, Italy

ARRIVE

8:00 AM

DEPART

11:00 PM

MARINA

SHORE EXCURSIONS

Palermo, the vibrant capital of Sicily, is a city where history, culture, and flavor come alive. Known for its stunning mix of Arab-Norman architecture, bustling markets, and rich culinary traditions, it offers a unique blend of Mediterranean charm and timeless heritage. From ornate cathedrals and grand theaters to lively piazzas and street food stalls, Palermo is a feast for the senses and a true gateway to Sicily’s soul.

MAY 23, 2027

Trapani

ARRIVE

8:00 AM

DEPART

10:00 PM

MARINA

SHORE EXCURSIONS

At once ancient and contemporary, Trapani is a city of contrasts. From the salt marshes that produce much of the Mediterranean's signature colored salts, to the intricate mosaics of Mozia and the famous wines of Marsala, to the best view in all of Sicily from the medieval hill town of Erice where the colorful gardens are rivaled only by the cannolis for pure sensory delight. The line of 17th century windmills, still hard at work in ancient Phoenician salt marshes beckons you to return to Trapani again and again.