European Waterways announced the return of its popular Opera Cruise as part of the company’s enhanced itinerary for the La Bella Vita hotel barge.
This stylish vessel is the largest in its fleet with a capacity of up to 20 guests and the only one to visits three of Italy’s most iconic Renaissance cities. In addition to the offer of a free Gondola ride, the company is also giving 20% off charter prices on a wide selection of departure dates throughout the 2019 season, for savings of up to €12,500.
This year, the Opera Cruise begins on August 10 in Venice. Guests will be privately transferred to the Arena Museo Opera in Verona, where they can stroll amongst the history of this musical art form, before dining in the charming courtyard restaurant. They will then be driven to the ancient Roman amphitheater of Arena di Verona, where they will enjoy top-tiered seats for an alfresco performance of Puccini’s Tosca – the timeless tale of love and loss.
“Venice was the centre of power and wealth during the Italian Renaissance.” noted Derek Banks, managing director for European Waterways. “Cruises aboard La Bella Vita explore the magnificent architecture, art and music that sprung from this extraordinary period of human history.”
After behind the scenes tours of the museums and churches of Venice, guests depart to the fishing port of Chioggia for a fascinating snapshot of local life. The next day, passing through the Po Delta Regional Park, guests will be treated to sights of flamingos, heron, snipe and other wild birds that make this UNESCO World Heritage site their home. The cruise continues upriver to the town of Taglio di Po, where guests will dine ashore at the stately 17th century Villa of Ca’Zen, accompanied by the Countess herself.
Guests then visit Ferrara, a city rich in medieval architecture that also played a prominent role in the Renaissance, with many of its artists making their homes here. The medieval Estense Castle – complete with a moat and drawbridge as well as a Renaissance garden – is also on the agenda. Another highpoint of the cruise is the city of Mantua, home to some of the best examples of neo-classical and baroque architecture in the world.
Opera Cruises can also be booked in July and August, subject to availability, and a supplement applies.
For more information on these limited-time savings, call 1800 828 050 or visit europeanwaterways.com.
SOURCE: European Waterways
