Malta’s capital, Valletta is steeped in history and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980. A simple stroll through the Baroque-style streets will take you back in time to 1566 when the city was completed, while a range of museums and monuments provide an in-depth retelling of the past. Its intimate size makes it easy to explore the highlights on foot and discover many hidden gems such as botanical gardens, boutiques and eateries.
Things to do in Valletta:
Malta 5D
This new-generation theatre provides an immersive journey through the history and culture of Malta, featuring 3D films, moving seats, water and air blasts and even leg ticklers. Fun for all ages, Malta 5D is the most unique way to discover Malta!
Manoel Theatre and Palazzo Manoel
Tucked away on a quiet street, the Manoel Theatre is a hidden gem of fascinating history and beautiful architecture. Whether you’re taking a tour of the theatre or enjoying a musical performance, visitors will fall in love with its elegance and grandeur.
St Johns Cathedral in Valetta
St John’s Co-Cathedral is considered one of the best examples of traditional Baroque architecture in Europe and features memorials dedicated to knights covering the floor and ceiling as well as the stunning Caravaggio’s painting.
Grand Master's Palace
Built between the 16th and 18th centuries, the Grandmaster’s Palace is an iconic piece of Maltese heritage, housing the President’s office and a museum where visitors can enjoy an audio guide to get to know the history behind the impressive armoury.
National Museum of Archaeology
Covering the history and mythology of Malta, the National Museum of Archaeology is a must visit for those looking to discover ancient artefacts. This highly informative museum is where you’ll find the renowned Sleeping Lady, Venus of Malta and more.
Upper Barrakka Gardens
At the end of a busy day of exploring, the Upper Barrakka Gardens are just what you need to wind down and relax in the capital. Offering unrivalled views of the city, these gardens date back to 1661 and are home to beautiful statues and plaques.
At Sea
DAY 2 - 12 May 2023
You will be at sea on day 2 while travelling from Valletta to Mykonos Town, Mykonos.
Mykonos Town, Mykonos
DAY 3 - 13 May 2023
Whether you’re in the mood for stretching out on an idyllic beach, itching to explore the maze of streets in search of seafood, or even looking to dance the night away at a seaside superclub, Mykonos has something for everyone. History buffs will be fascinated by the archaeological site of Delos, while Mykonos Windmills provide the perfect holiday snap. A romantic dinner along Little Venice is a must for couples- especially at sunset.
Things to do in Mykonos Town, Mykonos:
Little Venice
This row of 18th century fishing houses looks out onto the crystal clear sea, providing beautiful views both day and night. Though they aren’t fishing houses anymore, the shops, restaurants and bars that have replaced them still give a very enchanting waterfront experience.
Beaches
Boasting plenty of sun-kissed beaches, including Fokos and Kapari beaches, there's plenty of space and options for a relaxing day on the sand by the blue sea.
Paraportiani Church
Paraportiani Church is one of the most photographed churches in the world, and it’s easy to see why. The whitewashed structure stands out vibrantly against the ocean backdrop, creating fantastic photo opportunities and a romantic place to take a stroll.
Mykonos Windmills
Featured on many postcards you’ll find in Greece, the Mykonos Windmills are an iconic sight of the island. Once vital to the economy, the seven windmills are now a beautiful spot to take photos and explore- particularly at sunset.
Matoyianni Street
Day or night, Matoyianni Street is bustling with shopping, dining and bars. It’s the perfect place to find handmade souvenirs, such as jewellery and even sandals, as well as other designer boutiques. Visitors will also love the live music here!
Delos Archaeological Site
This small island is one of the most prominent archaeological sites in Greece, and is simply teeming with mythological and historical insights. Visitors will marvel at the artefacts exhibited here, including sculptures of Apollo and Artemis.
Souda
DAY 4 - 14 May 2023
Athens (Piraeus)
DAY 5 - 15 May 2023
Just a short distance from Athens, Piraeus is the biggest port in the Mediterranean and sees over 20 million cruisers each year. This port city is a perfect example of life by the sea, boasting an impressive harbour and authentic seafood dining, as well as the rich and fascinating history of ancient Greece. Whether you’re looking to discover archaeological findings or just want to relax in the sun at a friendly café, Piraeus is the place to be.
Things to do in Athens (Piraeus):
Agia Triada Church
Despite being a modern construction, Agia Triada features Byzantine architecture as well as an impressive dome that is visible from every spot within the church. Overlooking the port of Piraeus, Agia Triada is a must visit to discover the history of the town and take in the tranquillity.
Castella
This vibrant and colourful district is nestled on top of a hill with views out over the bay. A walk around this neighbourhood will take you to quaint cafes, neoclassical architecture, Prophet Elias church and the Veakeion outdoor theatre.
Archaeological Museum
Covering the Mycenaean period to the Roman era, the Piraeus Archaeological Museum offers artefacts excavated from Piraeus’ landscape, as well as collections donated from other sites. Visitors will discover monuments, statues, artwork and more.
Hellas Liberty
One of only three surviving Liberty ships, the SS Hellas Liberty is a fascinating vessel to explore. This floating maritime museum was presented to the public in 2010 and covers a range of exhibits people of all ages will enjoy.
Zea Bay
With stunning views of the Saronic Gulf and the beautiful vessels moored in the harbour, the bay of Zea is the perfect place to go for a walk, enjoy a delicious coffee and take in the sunshine. You’ll find many hidden gems here, including ancient walls.
Thira, Santorini
DAY 6 - 16 May 2023
Known for unrivalled views, sparkling blue sea and iconic bleached-white architecture, Santorini is a truly unforgettable destination. A stroll down one of the many cobbled streets and along the volcanic-sand beaches is the perfect way to spend a romantic evening, while kids and families will love taking the plunge from a caldera cruise and exploring the colourful markets. Finally, don’t forget to delve into Santorini’s past at the many museums on offer.
Things to do in Thira, Santorini:
Archaeological Museum
Located in the centre of Fira, the Archaeological Museum of Thera is a must visit for insight into the civilizations that came before present day, featuring artefacts from the Archaic, Roman, Geometric and Hellenistic periods, including Byzantine works of art.
Thira
Thira, as the capital of Santorini, is the gem of the area and boasts fantastic nightlife and restaurants with mouthwatering food. Here you can feel and be part of the action as it all takes place.
Museum of Prehistoric Thera
Home to the artefacts found at multiple archaeological sites such as Akrotiri, some of these excavations were discovered as early as 1867. Visitors will find numerous temporary and permanent exhibitions offering insight into the prehistoric age of Thira.
Santorini Cable Car
Before the cable car, tourists to Santorini would have to climb the winding stairs to the capital or ride by mule. Now, this mode of transport offers stunning sights of the land and sea on the way up, as well as access to the volcano.
Santorini Volcano
If you are looking to get a better look at the local geography, Santorini Volcano is a fantastic place to start with regular boat trips to look at the powerful effects that a volcano can have on the local environment.
At Sea
DAY 7 - 17 May 2023
You will be at sea on day 7 while travelling from Thira, Santorini to Valletta.
Valletta
DAY 8 - 18 May 2023
Malta’s capital, Valletta is steeped in history and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980. A simple stroll through the Baroque-style streets will take you back in time to 1566 when the city was completed, while a range of museums and monuments provide an in-depth retelling of the past. Its intimate size makes it easy to explore the highlights on foot and discover many hidden gems such as botanical gardens, boutiques and eateries.
Things to do in Valletta:
Malta 5D
This new-generation theatre provides an immersive journey through the history and culture of Malta, featuring 3D films, moving seats, water and air blasts and even leg ticklers. Fun for all ages, Malta 5D is the most unique way to discover Malta!
Manoel Theatre and Palazzo Manoel
Tucked away on a quiet street, the Manoel Theatre is a hidden gem of fascinating history and beautiful architecture. Whether you’re taking a tour of the theatre or enjoying a musical performance, visitors will fall in love with its elegance and grandeur.
St Johns Cathedral in Valetta
St John’s Co-Cathedral is considered one of the best examples of traditional Baroque architecture in Europe and features memorials dedicated to knights covering the floor and ceiling as well as the stunning Caravaggio’s painting.
Grand Master's Palace
Built between the 16th and 18th centuries, the Grandmaster’s Palace is an iconic piece of Maltese heritage, housing the President’s office and a museum where visitors can enjoy an audio guide to get to know the history behind the impressive armoury.
National Museum of Archaeology
Covering the history and mythology of Malta, the National Museum of Archaeology is a must visit for those looking to discover ancient artefacts. This highly informative museum is where you’ll find the renowned Sleeping Lady, Venus of Malta and more.
Upper Barrakka Gardens
At the end of a busy day of exploring, the Upper Barrakka Gardens are just what you need to wind down and relax in the capital. Offering unrivalled views of the city, these gardens date back to 1661 and are home to beautiful statues and plaques.
We went for new year on Azura from Barbados, first cruise and won’t be my last, absolutely fantastic. The food was out of this world, entertainment a bit cheesy but isn’t it always now on holidays!? The staff were brilliant and the ship itself was lovely and clean. Our room was a superior deluxe balcony and absolutely perfect. Looking to book another already, I’m hooked!
I'm reading some of the reviews below. Cannot believe what I'm reading. Think I must have been on a different ship. My friend and I flew to Barbados on 1st. November. Visited 9islands. Our cabin on Australia deck was superb for the two of us. No complaints whatsoever. Our cabin steward Lourdes was excellent. Not only was the cabin spotless but she herself was too. Food excellent in all areas. All staff very pleasant asxwere the passengers. Except one couple at very beginning of cruise. Who ran the ship down and it's free and the Carribbean sad. We had a lovely 2 weeks. Thankyou Azura thankyou P and O.
Just returned from the Caribbean on this ship.would definitely not use. this ship again.standard of hygiene dreadful and majority of staff very unsociable.this ship could definitely do with a refit!
Transatlantic to the Caribbean 28th October: Azura is looking tired now and to only 9 years old as well. Entertainment was the best I have seen and the food was excellent however there seemed a general low moral amongst the St app especially at the bars. I guess the auto tipping service being cancelled is having its effect.
I went on a mini cruise to Guernsey on the 31st August to 2nd Sept. but I was on a cruise to nowhere as no one set foot on the island and we returned to Southampton. After complaining to P&O they were not interested, they take your money and don't care about anything else. My cabin was shabby, stained and frayed carpet, grubby and stained curtains and paint on the balcony furniture. I will never again book a holiday with P&O ever.
Great ship, well run, lovely helpful staff however very disappointing when you are going to one port and that is cancelled, so basically just a two night cruise on the ship,
The ship is in need of a refit, it's tired in places. We missed the sail away as we had to queue for over 2 hrs just to obtain the drinks packages - why can’t that be done online before you go? We then had to queue to register the children for the kid's clubs, and the children were bored and unhappy by this time. The kid's clubs did not meet the needs of my 3 children. Staff seemed tired and didn’t interact much as far as we could see - and we were not invited to anything the children had done.sadly. The swimming pools were great for good swimmers but there was nothing suitable for the 5 year old - this again caused upset. Why can’t mothers and young children use the spa pool occasionally if this is only a metre or so deep? The food in the restaurants and the service there was excellent. The buffet was chaotic at times and many people did not wash their hands - we have seen this compulsory on other ships - ie no one is allowed in without having their hands sprayed by a staff member. The shore trips were very good. The photographer had more queues and we couldn’t find any photos on the computer so we gave up and didn’t bother.
Azura is looking a little dated in places, but our cabin (Balcony) was comfortable and well designed. Food was OK in the main restaurants, same food in buffet but more casual and a bit canteen like. Speciality restaurants were excellent for a supplement. Drink prices very fair - no need to go for a drinks package unless you drink a lot! Entertainment was average. The Headliners cast were very good on the whole, but NCL had better shows. Excursions were very good but a little pricey. The layout of the ship was a little confusing at first, but we appreciated the quieter bars and adults only pool and sunbathing area. No shortage of sunbeds. Overall a good holiday to the Norwegian Fjords
We took the grandchildren on their first ever cruise and they really enjoyed themselves after they had settled in. They loved the Terrace Pool and spent many happy hours swimming. Once they had overcome their shyness they joined the kids clubs activities and had a good time.
For our first cruise it was everything we expected and more. The weather was perfect and seas calm. Staff onboard are fantastic, nothing was too much trouble. They referred to us by name and were polite and attentive. The onboard florist was very knowledgeable and helpful. Can't wait to book another one.
Select Fare promotion, Free Extra spend amount varies depending on sailing & cabin grade booked, Low deposit is available on selected sailings.
All offers and prices are subject to change and availability at time of enquiry. Prices are based on two passengers sharing unless otherwise stated and are subject to the Tour Operator's terms and conditions. Cabin and Flight supplements may apply. Other supplements may apply in addition to the price shown above. Flight details, timings and routing may be subject to alteration. Other tour operator charges may also apply. Any Onboard Spending money or drinks package value shown will be per cabin, again based on two sharing.
Note: On 13 January 2018, new European legislation is being adopted in the UK which as result will mean that we may change our required method of payment at our discretion, irrespective of how any deposit or prior payment was made.