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Next May follow in the footsteps of the Crusaders with ecruising’s sensational 29-night CRUISE TOUR: Andalusia & Morocco journey.

This epic itinerary from one of Australia’s leading travel experts, takes you on a breath-taking cruise through the Mediterranean, circumnavigating the Iberian Peninsula on board Azamara Pursuit, followed by a land tour to some of Andalusia and Morocco’s most iconic and intriguing destinations.

Your journey begins on 2 May 2020 in Rome, the Eternal City, with 2 nights at the luxurious Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese. Completely transformed following a recent refurbishment, this historic hotel with its sleek white-on-white rooms, lush restaurant, champagne bar and dazzling rooftop views to the dome of St Peter’s Basilica and beyond, has been well and truly ushered into the 21st century, and is the perfect base from which to explore Italy’s vibrant capital at your leisure.

On 4 May farewell Rome for the sublime comfort of Azamara Pursuit for a 10-night voyage to Lisbon, visiting Italy’s Sorrento Peninsula, plus Menorca, Barcelona, Valencia and Cartagena in Spain, and Gibraltar, along the way. A veritable boutique hotel at sea, the ship offers everything well-travelled modern voyagers could ask for, from elegant, tastefully appointed suites and staterooms to a range of superb dining options that are sure to tempt every tastebud, plus relaxing and refreshing treatments at the onboard spa and a quality program of engaging entertainment, all guaranteed to deliver an unparalleled indulgent cruising experience.

Cruise highlights include stopovers at the Italian port of Sorrento where a short but steep hike to the top of the town’s cliffs is rewarded with spectacular views, Menorca in Spain, home of bustling plazas and marketplaces, and the cosmopolitan city of Barcelona, where you’ll have 2 days to soak up amazing architecture, museums, and all the tapas you can eat. In Valencia, with its fascinating mix of tradition and modernity, visit opulent 15th century mansions and avant-garde buildings like the City of Arts and Sciences, while Cartagena is a history buff’s delight, with must-sees including Conception Castle and the Roman Theatre. Rounding the bottom of the Iberian Peninsula, visit the iconic Rock of Gibraltar, a natural fortress overlooking the mouth of the Mediterranean, and Portugal’s Portimão with its stunning Praia Grande Beach, before disembarking in the Portuguese capital of Lisbon.

Here, prepare to commence the next phase of your journey – a 17-night tour of Andalusia and Morocco. Start with an exploration of Lisbon, one of the world’s oldest and most beautiful cities, rich in architecture and criss-crossed by monument-studded grand boulevards. Next up travel to Spain, where you can take a stroll through Cordoba’s narrow winding streets and visit Caceres with its intriguing blend of Roman, Islamic, Northern Gothic and Italian Renaissance architecture. In Seville, stand in awe of the historic Cathedral, the second largest catholic church in the world, and visit the ancient Santa Cruz quarter. Admire the white city of Ronda with its spectacular mountain views, and enjoy a little late Spring sunshine on one of the Costa Del Sol’s many stunning beaches.

Crossing the Strait of Gibraltar to Morocco, highlights include the panoramic city of Casablanca, home to the Hassan II grand mosque and Marrakech nestled at the foot of the Atlas Mountains, with its colourful medina and magical Jma El Fna Square. In Rabat, Morocco’s diplomatic and administrative capital, take in a tour of the Royal Palace and Mohamed V Mausoleum; admire the renowned Bab Al Mansour Gate in the walled imperial city of Meknes; and prepare to be charmed by the picturesque imperial city of Fez.

Returning to Spain, discover Granada, last stronghold of the Moorish Kingdoms and home to the world famous Alhambra Palace and Generalife Gardens; and the World Heritage Listed Toledo with its unique blend of Christian, Moorish and Jewish culture. Spend your last 2 nights in Madrid, for a chance to discover the city’s multi-faceted and colourful history including the medieval Arabic fortress in the heart of the Barrio de la Morería, the courtesan district of the Hapsburgs and the Royal Palace built by Bourbon King Charles III, before preparing for your flight home on 31 May 2020.

ecruising’s 29-night CRUISE TOUR: Andalusia & Morocco journey takes place from 2 – 31 May 2020, with prices starting from $9,379 *per person twin share, including return economy airfares from Australia, all accommodation, and select standard spirits, beers and wine throughout your Azamara voyage, plus all touring and transfers per the itinerary.

*Subject to availability. Term and conditions apply.