Criterion Travel offers expert-led, history-focused Med cruiseCriterion Travel offers expert-led, history-focused Med cruise

Criterion Travel, a tour operator specializing in expert-led trips with a strong educational focus, is now offering limited space on a 10-day Hebridean Sky voyage.

The western Mediterranean cruise, embarking April 27, will provide access to five UNESCO World Heritage Sites, led by Criterion Travel guides and focused on learning and archaeology with expert lecturers. Ports include Cagliari, Sardinia; Mahón, Menorca; and Trapani, Sicily.

Criterion Travel tours are traditionally reserved for the affinity travel market, partnering with prestigious US organizations, including renowned museums and elite university alumni associations. The expertly crafted 'Cruising the Mediterranean' voyage is a one-of-a-kind itinerary delving into the rich archaeological history of the region.

'I am delighted we can open this tour up to individual travelers to experience what makes a Criterion Travel journey so special,' Criterion Travel President Steve Ridgway said.

Gibraltar to Naples

The trip begins in Gibraltar, where travelers will learn about the Great Siege and explore World War II tunnels and Gorham’s Cave Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A visit to Granada includes an in-depth tour of the iAlhambra fortress and Generalife Gardens. In Menorca, travelers will see architectural highlights including the UNESCO Prehistoric Site of Talayotic Menorca and Ciutadella.

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At Cagliari, Criterion guests will learn about the ancient ruins of Nora and Su Nuraxi in Barumini, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. A visit to Sicily explores Segesta and the Greco-Roman theater at Taormina, with options to venture to the hilltop fortress of Erice or visit a winery in Marsala. A tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Paestum and its three Doric temples follows before cruising along the Amalfi Coast to Naples.

In addition to the core itinerary, travelers will have opportunities to participate in a pre-trip extension in Gibraltar and a post-trip extension in Naples and Pompeii.

Inclusive pricing

Fares start at $6,990 per person, double occupancy, and include all meals and excursions as specified in the program brochure, gratuities to shipboard personnel along with porters, waitstaff, guides and drivers; port charges, entrance fees and house wine, beer and soft drinks with lunches and dinners.

Further details are available at www.criteriontravel.com.