Pompeii, Sorrento & Capri — Sept. 23

On this beautiful excursion we will: Visit Pompeii in the morning and then travel to Sorrento, or “Sorrentino”, along the scenic and picturesque coastal road of southern Italy before ending our day in Capri.

* Upon leaving the pier, drink in the wonderful view of the Gulf of Naples with Mt. Vesuvius in the background. A stop will be made at a local cameo factory to admire the delicacy of this work and to have an opportunity to purchase these treasures.
* Soon you will reach Pompeii, possibly the most famous excavation in the world, for an amazing guided tour. Here a flourishing civilization, buried for 1,700 years, has been brought to life again and we can see how the citizens of the greatest empire the world has even known lived and loved; worked and played; ate and drank and died.
* Follow your knowledgeable guide on a walking tour through these ancient streets and learn about the historical events and the tragic end of the city’s 20,000 inhabitants. The catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. surprised the population of this prosperous provincial capital and resort town, burying it under 20 feet of ash and pumice stone, but in this way preserving a whole city.
* Next, enjoy an hour’s scenic coastal drive to Sorrento, the home of sirens who attempted to lure Ulysses on to the rocks. Here, a short amount of free time will be given to explore and shop before enjoying lunch in a local restaurant.
* Later, you will be led on foot to the Sorrento Marina where you will catch the Jetfoil for your 25-minute trip over to Capri. A tiny island with an area of 51⁄2 square miles, Capri has natural beauty that has been celebrated for at least two thousand years.
* Enjoy a ride up in the funicular to Capri Town for an hour of free time. The “Piazzetta” is the heart of shopping and nightlife.
* Wander around the narrow streets, explore the fashion designers’ shops, relax in an outdoor cafe or see the sights that most appeal to you.
* Enjoy a ride up in the funicular to Capri Town, where you may visit the Augustus Gardens, overlooking the Faraglioni rocks and Marina Piccola, followed by free time. The “Piazzetta” is the hearth of shopping. Wander around the narrow streets, explore the fashion designer’s shops, relax in an outdoor cafe or see the sights that most appeal to you. Meet again with your guide and transfer down to the Marina Grande by funicular once more to catch the jetfoil back to Naples. There will be a short walk back to the ship.