WHISPERS OF ALBANIA – BE THE FIRST TO SAIL THESE CLANDESTINE WATERS
For almost 50 years Albania was closed to visitors. As a result Albania developed at a much slower rate than the other countries in the Mediterranean and, in many ways, any visit here is a step back in time. Albania has a charming and almost clandestine simplicity, and the locals are extremely welcoming and happy to meet people. The coastline here is beautiful, the translucent waters sparkle in the sunshine and the beaches are gorgeous. But let’s not tell everybody as we don’t want to spoil it by attracting a crowd – so let’s just keep it between ourselves and speak in whispers!
HITHERTO UNSEEN PORTS OF CALL
Spread out along some 476Km of Adriatic coast the towns and villages are still authentically ‘quaint’ to the extent in some places of feeling like ‘living history’. The cruise sets out from the northern harbour of Durres and sails southward via Vlora to the Greek Ionian island of Corfu, before returning home via Orthonos, Saranda and Shanzan. Even for regular seafarers in these waters everything is still relatively unexplored.
CALLISTO – A CHARMING VESSEL
Our vessel for the cruise is the 17-cabin motor yacht ‘Callisto’. She is absolutely charming with large well-appointed cabins, all with private facilities and air-conditioning. We cruise on a half-board basis with a buffet breakfast, and everybody eats dinner together ‘al fresco’ on the exterior upper deck. Callisto has a swimming platform at the stern and the Captain makes regular swim stops in secluded coves – who needs a pool?
A WORLD OF HISTORY AND CULTURE
Being part of the Balkans, Albania has an amazing history that, in places like Butrint, dates back to the bronze age thru’ Greek and Roman Empires. Like most places in this cradle of civilisation it’s had an amazing variety of cultural i8nflences – Ottoman, Byzantine and Venetian to name but a few. The great thing is that it’s still relatively undeveloped and much of the old and traditional aspects still remain. Read our blogs for more.
A BRILLIANT VALUE PACKAGE
Still a ‘newbie’ on the holiday scene, Albanian prices are some way below those you’ll find in the more established tourist areas like Italy and Greece. In general this helps us keep the cost of the cruise down and, in particular, even in Tirana or when you go ashore you’ll find the cost of coffees, beer, snacks etc., much more reasonable. It’s a brilliant package. Best of all you can be one of the first to try it before the value gets discovered by the crowds.
BE THE FIRST TO VISIT – BOOK NOW
If you’re looking for something different you’ll love Albania, If you love cruising you’ll love this vessel and this itinerary. And you can be one of the very first people to come here and experience the wonder and the beauty.
The Vessel
CALLISTO
THE NYMPH OF THE SEAS
In Greek mythology Callisto was a beautiful Nymph and minor Goddess.
Certainly she has a timeless classic elegance and wonderful charm that lives up to her name with natural wood finishes, brass details, and soft-toned interiors reflect the yacht’s heritage.
With just 17 well-appointed cabins for a maximum of 34 guests, the atmosphere aboard is spacious and intimate, offering a true “home away from home” experience.
