BUTTERFIELD & ROBINSON'S SUMMER AFLOAT AND BY SEA
04-03-2008
B&R’s “Uncruises” explore the Black Sea, Dalmatian Coast and Greek Isles
Toronto, Canada — For active travellers hoping to hit the high seas this summer, outfitters Butterfield & Robinson offer up three great choices for Mediterranean getaways. Having perfected the art of the “uncruise”, B&R trip planners design one-of-a-kind journeys aboard the small ship Callisto that feature daily onshore walks or bike rides. Summer 2008 destinations include the Dalmatian Coast, Dubrovnik to Athens, and the Black Sea with special guest and wine expert Zoltan Szabo.
“Each of these trips offers an exciting, modern twist on the classic Mediterranean cruise,” says By Sea program director Graham Lewis. “Our travellers want to really connect with a place and explore—they want to wander through spice markets in Odessa and hike to cave churches on the Bulgarian steppe.”
Indeed, no matter where in the world B&R By Sea navigates, travellers are guaranteed an active holiday that emphasizes cultural immersion, onshore discoveries and onboard luxury. Carrying a maximum of just 32 guests, the Callisto offers all the ambience and understated elegance of a floating boutique hotel.
The Black Sea with special sommelier guest Zoltan Szabo
The Black Sea is the world’s most isolated sea, and the region bordering it harbours some of Eastern Europe’s most interesting and historical sites. On B&R’s new 9-day Black Sea By Sea, guests travel from Istanbul through the Bosphorous to explore four different countries. On foot, travellers encounter strongholds of the Byzantine, Roman and Ottoman empires, enjoy dramatic coastal walks, and visit three UNESCO World Heritage Sites. As a special summer treat, on-ship B&R guides are joined by Transylvanian-born sommelier Zoltan Szabo. A cultural interpreter and expert on Eastern European wines, Szabo hosts evening tastings highlighting the region’s budding wine industry, and provides entrée into the exclusive Varna Wine Club in Bulgaria. Seven nights aboard the Callisto are complemented by one night at the spectacular Four Seasons Istanbul. Summer departures start August 8 and August 15.
Dalmatian Coast: Old World Mediterranean
B&R By Sea has been exploring the Dalmatian Coast for several years now, cruising the Adriatic on an 8-day journey beginning and ending in Dubrovnik. Using the Callisto to reach small ports inaccessible to regular cruise ships, B&R trip planners have crafted an adventure that allows passengers to see the ancient coast the way it was meant to be seen—by sea. Following along old trade routes and stopping to explore medieval towns, travellers journey through the region on foot and by bike. Highlights include local meals ashore, a walk on the untouched island of Vis, dinner in the mountains outside Korcula (the alleged birthplace of Marco Polo), and a stop in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Montenegro. Summer itineraries depart June 21, June 28 and July 5.
Dubrovnik to Athens: Three Countries, Three Seas
Combining highlights from three different countries, B&R’s 9-day Dubrovnik to Athens By Sea is a biking and walking journey that offers a little something for everyone. Beginning in Dubrovnik, travellers explore the jewel in the crown of the Dalmatian Coast with an expert local guide. In the Venetian town of Kotor in Montenegro, a walk brings the UNESCO-protected site to life. Stop
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