Embark on a cultural expedition, a 10-night historical odyssey tracing the ancient heritage of Portugal, Spain, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia and Italy.

Departing from Lisbon, this specially curated voyage allows ample time to explore remarkable archaeological  sites in Spain and along the North African coast, such as the ancient city of Carthage in Tunisia, a powerful rival to Rome; Tipaza, Algeria, known for its impressive ruins including a Roman theatre and basilica; and Cotta in Morocco.  

​Unravel the intricate history and immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Roman Empire throughout the Mediterranean region.  Conclude this enriching journey in Palermo, Sicily along the picturesque Mediterranean coast.
Mysteries of Carthage & The Moors
10 Nights onboard Swan Hellenic Diana from Lisbon to Palermo
Departing Lisbon on August 10th, 2024 
Before Your Journey

​​Friday, August 9th, 2024
Your cultural expedition begins with a complimentary overnight stay in Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon, Portugal - Day 1
Saturday, August 10th - Embarkation

One of the oldest cities in the world, Lisbon’s technicoloured past is evident just about everywhere. The medina-like streets of Alfama still bear Moorish influences. Baroque architecture surrounds you in Baixa and scars of the Great Lisbon Earthquake of 1755 can still be found throughout the city. It’s estimated that over 100,000 people died in what became one of history’s deadliest earthquakes. Today Lisbon is a delightful mix of colourful neighbourhoods, all brimming with history, culture and tradition. Baixa is where you’ll find the hustle and bustle, set below São Jorge Castle. Nearby Chiado is one of Lisbon’s trendiest neighbourhoods with its historic cafes and designer shops.

Portimao, Portugal - Day 2
Sunday, August 11th

The Algarve’s second-most populous city dates back to the time of the Phoenicians. With golden sand beaches set beneath dramatic cliffs and the aroma of freshly cooked sardines drifting through the streets, Portimao is a wonderful spot for some downtime. Venture further into town for Praia da Rocha, one of the Algarve’s most beautiful beaches. Or head to Praia Grande, another stunning local beach - this one has its own 16th-century castle. Get your culture fix at the award-winning Museum de Portico. Housed in a 19th-century fish cannery, the museum displays local archaeological artefacts and intriguing underwater finds. There is also an interesting recreation of the former fish cannery.

Seville, Spain - Days 3 & 4

​Monday, August 12th - Overnight
Tuesday, August 13th
A city renowned for passion, culture and flamenco, Seville’s intoxicating atmosphere will infuse even the weariest traveller with a celebratory spirit. Dating back to Roman times, Seville has witnessed Muslim and subsequent Christian occupation. The magnificent Catedral de Sevilla lords over the historic centre, just a short distance from the Alcázar (palace), a royal complex of rooms and gardens hidden behind modest terracotta walls. Explore the birthplace of flamenco in the courtyards of the riverside district of Triana. Wander through the winding medieval lanes of the Santa Cruz Quarter, sampling the tapas bars as you go. Or simply watch the cheerful crowds over a drink in the buzzing plaza.

Tangier, Morocco - Day 5

Wednesday, August 14th
Founded by the Phoenicians 3,000 years ago, Tangier has a long, complex history thanks to its ideal trading position. Consequentially it has been fought over and occupied by many nations and civilizations. Today Tangier is a modern Moroccan city, however, until the mid-20th century, it was poorly governed by an international committee. The city fell into neglect and transformed into a haven for counterculture artists, musicians and writers including Henri Matisse, Paul Bowles, Jack Kerouac and the Rolling Stones. Contemporary Tangier has distanced itself from its dissonant past, now just another interesting aspect of its incredible history. Today the white city gleams with pride, with its buzzing café culture and modern port.

Oran, Algeria - Day 6

Thursday, August 15th
Steeped in history, the port city of Oran, nicknamed ‘the radiant’, is Algeria’s second-largest city. Founded by Andalusian explorers, the Oran has since been influenced by Islamic, Haussmann and Spanish occupants. This complex legacy can be explored in The Palace of Culture, which houses exhibits detailing the city’s artistic and cultural past. A visit to Rosalcazar, a Spanish fortress perched above the city, offers an interesting insight into Oran’s succession of influences. The city’s church of Saint-Louis d’Oran is a fitting testament to its convoluted past. Since its construction, it has been a mosque, synagogue, church and cathedral.

Algiers, Algeria - Day 7

Friday, August 16th
Algeria’s fascinating capital city is simultaneously battle-worn, beautiful and impressive. Founded by seafaring Phoenicians around the 4th century, the city later became a thriving Roman port. Ottoman rule arrived in the early 16th century followed by French occupation in 1830. Algeria gained its independence in 1962, and the influence of its many rulers and residents can be seen in the city’s rich and complex architecture. The Grande Poste is particularly impressive. Commissioned by the French in 1910, the neo-Moorish building features graceful arches and an elegant marble staircase. Standing in contrast to the historical architecture is the modern Martyrs Monument. The monument opened in 1982 and commemorates Algeria’s war of independence.

Bejaia, Algeria - Day 8

Saturday, August 17th
Located on Algeria’s Mediterranean coastline, the city of Béjaïa is home to one of the largest Berber speaking populations in Algeria. The city was first founded by Numidian Berbers and was subsequently occupied by numerous conquering forces and empires including the Romans, Byzantines, Ottomans and the French before gaining its independence along with the rest of Algeria. The city’s tumultuous past can be explored in the fascinating Béjaïa Museum, and relics of its history remain throughout Béjaïa. Outside of the city, nature is beautiful and abundant. This can be appreciated in the nearby Gouraya National Park. Several protected species can be found here, including the endangered Barbary ape, wild cat and Algerian hedgehog.

Annaba, Algeria - Day 9

Sunday, August 18th
Known as Bône during the French occupation, modern-day Is Annaba is Algeria’s third-largest city. Located less than 100 kilometres from the Tunisian border, the port town exhibits a particularly European ambience, thanks to its strong French heritage. From the Parsian-esque nightlife along the Cours de la Revolution to the striking Basilica of Augustine, reminiscent of Paris’ Sacre Coeur, French influence is alive and well here. The nearby War Cemetery is an important memorial to the British Empire’s soldiers and airmen who fought in the region during World War II. And further afield El Kala National Park, a recognised UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is home to an impressive population of endemic flora and fauna.

La Goulette, Tunisia - Day 10

Monday, August 19th
La Goulette port is the gateway to Tunisia’s capital city and cultural hub, Tunis. Tunis is said to date back as far as the second millennium BC. The city has been subject to many occupying influences over the years which is evident in its modern-day society. Parisian style café culture dominates the main boulevard whilst in the Medina of Tunis, many continue their ancestor’s traditional way of life. Just beyond Tunis lies the ancient city of Carthage. This once-powerful city lay at the centre of the Phoenician trade network. It grew to be the richest city in the Mediterranean before being burned to the ground by the Roman Empire in the wake of the Punic Wars. Julius Caesar later re-established Carthage as a Roman colony, and after several decades it became one of Rome’s most important colonies. The ruins can be explored on a visit to UNESCO-listed Carthage Archaeological Park.

Palermo, Sicily - Day 11

Tuesday, August 20th - Disembarkation
A feast for the senses, Sicily’s capital is an intoxicating and chaotic melting pot. Bustling street markets, ancient buildings, opulent palaces, and millennia of history await those ready to embrace Palermo for all that it offers. Palermo’s history is complex, to say the least. Middle Eastern, Northern African, and European influences are all melded together here. The Greeks, Romans, Carthaginians, Arabs, Goths, and Vandals have come and gone through the ages, leaving countless treasures in their wake. The opulent Palazzo de Normanni, once the seat of power for the kings of Sicily during Norman rule, is a dazzling display of the opulence that the city’s rulers once enjoyed.
As your time onboard Swan Hellenic Diana concludes, you may wish to extend your time in Sicily.  

5 Unmissables

Kasbah Medina

Get lost in the whitewashed, winding alleyways of the Kasbah medina in Algiers as you soak up the city's historic architecture.

Cape St. Vincent

Visit Cape St. Vincent, a breathtaking headland on the southwest coast of Portugal. This special place has been revered since Phoenician times and is steeped in military history.

Sevilla

Feast on history and tapas in the Andalusian capital of Seville. Then explore the birthplace of flamenco in the courtyards of the riverside district of Triana.

Barbary Macaque

Gouraya National Park in Algeria's Bejaia Province offers a rare chance to see the Barbary macaque in its natural environment. The Barbary macaque is the only macaque species that live outside Asia, and the only primate species found north of the Sahara. The survival of the Barbary macaque is under threat, and there are now fewer in the wild than lowland gorillas. 

Exclusive Alcazar

Explore the Real Alcazar of Seville, the oldest palace in Europe, on an exclusive evening visit. This Spanish cultural treasure still serves as one of the residences of Spain's King, Felipe VI, and is thought to be one of the best-preserved examples of Moorish architecture in the country. Guided by a knowledgeable expert, you’ll discover the secrets and breathtaking beauty of this 14th century structure on your unforgettable private visit.

Swan Hellenic Diana

SH Diana

Launched in early 2023, SH Diana is the largest ship in the Swan Hellenic fleet, providing elegant and spacious 5-star accommodation for 192 guests in 96 spacious staterooms and suites, the vast majority with large balconies. Operated by an onboard team of 140, she provides the highest levels of personal service. She takes Swan Hellenic back to its roots when she launched, exploring the Mediterranean and its famous sites of antiquity.
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Named after the Ancient Roman goddess of light, the moon, hunting, and the wilderness, SH Diana is specially designed for worldwide cruising to explore the most inspiring and inaccessible places on Earth. Building on the outstanding amenities of her sister ships, she adds a dedicated Card Room next to the Observation Lounge, a Private Dining Room for special occasions, and two tenders that bring guests a comfortable alternative to Zodiacs for expedition landings. A Polar Class 6 ice-strengthened hull combines with extra-large stabilizers to make your journey as comfortable as possible.

Pricing & Information​


Accommodation 
Swan Hellenic - SH Diana
Suite selection at your discretion

Inclusions
  • Roundtrip transfers from the airport to the cruise port (& our included accommodation)
  • One-night pre-cruise accommodation with breakfast in a 4/5-star hotel
  • All meals onboard
  • 24-hour room service
  • Coffee, tea, soft drinks, and selected alcoholic beverages available 24 hours per day
  • Lecture programs by our experienced expedition team and guest speakers
  • WiFi
  • Complimentary use of onboard launderette
  • Onboard gratuities and port taxes 
  • One selected shore excursion / expedition activity per port of call 

​Pricing
Per Person Pricing, Including Taxes, Fees & Port Charges
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Ocean View Suite
215 Square Feet - Large Picture Windows
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Located on Deck 4
Forward Location - $6665pp
Midship Location - $6958pp
Balcony Suite
301 Square Feet - Private Balcony
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​Located on Deck 5
​Forward or Aft Location
Published Fare - $11,233pp
Our Exclusive Fare - $7862pp (You Save $6742 per Suite)

​Midship Location Location
Published Fare - $11,747
Our Exclusive Fare - $8222pp (You Save $7050 per Suite)

Located on Deck 6
Forward, Mid & Aft Locations
Published Fare - $12,890pp
Our Exclusive Fare - $9023pp (You Save $7734 per Suite)

Junior Suite
377 Square Feet - Private Balcony
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​Located on Decks 5 & 6
Aft Location
Published Fare - $14,542pp
Our Exclusive Fare - $10,116pp (You Save $8852 per Suite)
Suite
474 Square Feet - Private Balcony
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​Located on Decks 5 & 6
​Midship Location
​Published Fare - $16,829pp
Our Exclusive Fare - $11,780pp (You Save $10,098 per Suite)
Premium Suite
506 Square Feet - Private Balcony
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​Located on Deck 6
​Aft Location
Published Fare - $19.542pp
Our Exclusive Fare - $13,678pp (You Save $11,728 per Suite)

​Deposit and Final Payments
Deposits are 15% of the selected suite price.

Pre & Post Travel Arrangements
You pay choose come come in to Lisbon early, extend in Sicily or let us create something completely customized for you.

Travel Protection
Travel Protection Pricing is based on your total trip price.  We can give an accurate quote at time of booking.

Additional Costs
Optional Pre & Post Extensions, Optional Travel Protection and Travel Visas if required.  
Optional upgraded shore excursions are also available for purchase.

Cancellation Information
$150 per person cancellation fee is assessed from the time of booking up to 120 days before departure
For cancellations 119-60 days prior to departure: 15% of the cruise package price
For cancellations 59-30 days prior to departure: 75% of the cruise package price
For cancellations 29 days prior to departure: 100% of the cruise package price

Confirming your reservation 
You may use the "Click to Reserve" button below to initiate your deposit request or simply drop us an email to: Info@OceansAndLands.com ​​​​