Western Mediterranean: Idyllic Isles & Hidden Gems

  • 24th May 2026
  • 10 Nights
  • Civitavecchia (Rome)
  • Oosterdam
Holland America Line

Inside price from

£2,599*/per person

Balcony price from

£3,099*/per person

Outside price from

£2,599*/per person

Suite price from

£4,089*/per person

* based on twinshare stateroom

Your itinerary

  • Civitavecchia (Rome)
  • Salerno
  • Palermo, Sicily
  • Cagliari
  • At Sea
  • Palma de Mallorca
  • Alicante
  • At Sea
  • Gibraltar
  • Cadiz (Seville)
  • Lisbon
Day 1

24th May '26

Civitavecchia (Rome)
When you embark on a cruise to Rome with Holland America Line you experience its bustling modernism along with its rich history. You can walk in the footsteps of emperors, have coffee in Renaissance piazzas and see contemporary art all in one afternoon. Your sightseeing time in Rome begins at the nearby port of Civitavecchia, a seaside town with roots that stretch back to the Etruscan era. Take note of the Forte Michelangelo (both Bramante and Michelangelo had a hand in its design), and the lungomare, a lively stretch along the sea with beach clubs, bars and restaurants. Once in the Eternal City you can fill your day with museums, churches, archaeological sites, traditional trattorias, artisan shops and, of course, gelato. The Colosseum and the Vatican Museums are Rome’s superstar attractions, but there are plenty of quieter gems to explore. For food lovers there are the markets in Campo de’ Fiori or the slightly farther flung Testaccio. The hip neighborhood of Monti, next to the Colosseum, has a vibrant piazza scene and boutique shopping, while the Villa Borghese offers a green oasis with a view towards Saint Peter’s Basilica and the masterpiece-filled Galleria Borghese. Although Rome might not have been built in one day, you’ll certainly be able to see its highlights on our Rome cruises along with the top things to do there in 24 hours. More
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Arrive

0:00

Depart

17:00

Day 2

25th May '26

Salerno
Charming Salerno, on Italy’s famed Amalfi Coast, brims with pleasures. Stroll the quiet narrow streets of the old city to discover hidden architectural gems, small shops, interesting churches, and restaurants serving excellent regional cuisine. Marvel at the marble and mosaic wonders of the 11thcentury Duomo dedicated to Saint Matthew, whose tomb is in the crypt. More
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Arrive

7:00

Depart

17:00

Day 3

26th May '26

Palermo, Sicily
Territory of the legendary Godfather, Sicily has hosted many film crews, and Palermo in particular is home to the Opera House where Al Pacino’s character met his Waterloo in the Godfather III. Also in Palermo are a Spanish church with a Moorish cloister and a cathedral whose electic facade speaks volumes about all those who came, saw and conquered. Enjoy it all as you would the caponata—sweet and tangy and, not surprisingly, delicious. More
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Arrive

7:00

Depart

17:00

Day 4

27th May '26

Cagliari
“And suddenly there is Cagliari: a naked town rising steep, steep, golden-looking, piled naked to the sky,” wrote D.H. Lawrence in 1921 when he traveled to Sardinia. Nearly 100 years later, the city that made the writer “think of Jerusalem” is just as impressive, sitting between a blue sea and an azure sky. According to Greek mythology, “Caralis” was founded by Aristeus, son of Apollo, though historians date it to the 8th century B.C.E., when the Phoenicians established a trading port here. Sardinia’s capital was later fought over by Carthaginians, Romans, Pisans, Spanish and Piedmontese—all of whom shaped its development. Most sights are in Castello, the old town that climbs the hill behind Saint Remy’s rampart. It’s a rough grid of narrow streets and small squares with breathtaking views of sea, city and mountains. And while the old stones of Castello reflect millennia of history, Cagliari also has natural riches, with white beaches and flamingo-dotted blue lagoons nearby. Sardinia has one UNESCO-listed site: a megalithic nuraghe complex 60 kilometers north of Cagliari (though some would argue that the town’s Roman amphitheater and Tuvixeddu necropolis could also be candidates for UNESCO recognition). Whether you are a history buff or drawn more to culinary or natural wonders, you’ll find much to delight in this lively, fascinating city. More
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Arrive

8:00

Depart

17:00

Day 5

28th May '26

At Sea
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0:00

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0:00

Day 6

29th May '26

Palma de Mallorca
Floating gemlike off Spain’s Mediterranean Riviera, these islands offer you pearls, pottery and perfectly sublime sandy beaches. Visit Valldemosa, where George Sand and Frederic Chopin spent a romantic winter in 1838. More
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Arrive

7:00

Depart

17:00

Day 7

30th May '26

Alicante
Fresh sea breezes, mountain backdrops and vibrant locals have made this magical city a must-see for both international tourists and residents of Spain alike. It’s easy to slip into the local rhythm. Spend your day exploring everything from the Old Town and Santa Bárbara Castle to the trendiest of Spanish stores. Promenade down the marble Explanada de España, an iconic and bustling boulevard dotted with palm trees. Enjoy a proper Spanish lunch that spans several courses and hours, prepared by some of the best chefs in the country. Take advantage of the proximity to the sea to dine on the freshest seafood, or try one of Alicante’s many traditional rice dishes. And don’t forget to sample the outstanding regional wines, which are also very tasty souvenirs. Even just a day here will open your eyes to the natural beauty and subtle charms that make proud and elegant Alicante a gem of the Costa Blanca. More
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Arrive

8:00

Depart

20:00

Day 8

31st May '26

At Sea
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0:00

Depart

0:00

Day 9

1st Jun '26

Gibraltar
This strategic link between the Atlantic and the Mediterranean has been ruled by the Spanish, British and Moors. As long as the Barbary Apes remain, the British will rule Gibraltar this is the tradition that has held for 350 years. These pesky primates are a favorite with visitors despite their incessant chatter and light-fingered ways. Ride to the top of the Rock for great views over the Strait of Gibraltar-on a clear day you’ll see Africa. More
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Arrive

7:00

Depart

18:00

Day 10

2nd Jun '26

Cadiz (Seville)
Hanging off the southwestern edge of Spain, Cádiz is one of Andalucía’s regional capitals and a place bursting with personality. Europe’s oldest continually inhabited city, with a history stretching back 3,000 years, has fallen on hard times in recent years, but a combination of pride, good humor and stoicism keeps it on an even keel. The famous Carnival, one of Spain’s most important in the genre, is a thrilling fiesta into which Cádiz pours all its energy and ingenuity. The city’s fond nickname, la tacita de plata (“little silver cup”), alludes to its curious geography—it juts out on a long peninsula into a sheltered bay. Old town Cádiz is a warren of cobbled streets where the houses, painted white or dusty ochre, have the weather-beaten look of a place subjected to centuries of wind and salt. This ancient city has one good example of everything that matters: a great food market, a theater (the Teatro Falla, a grand Art Nouveau Moorish gem), a gorgeous cathedral, impressive fortifications and a beach—the picturesque and famous La Caleta. More
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Arrive

7:00

Depart

15:00

Day 11

3rd Jun '26

Lisbon
Find your way in the city that launched the Age of Discovery. Cross the River Tagus on its soaring suspension bridge, watched over by a colossal statue of Christ. Wander the maze of streets in the Alfama, the old Moorish quarter, dominated by the medieval Castle of St George where peacocks strut and shriek. Stroll the Baixa and refuse to leave without a pair of elegant shoes. More
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Arrive

7:00

Depart

0:00

Your ship - The Oosterdam

Oosterdam, a Vista-class ship, recently emerged from dry dock with exciting updates—including completely refreshed suites and new lounge, dining and entertainment venues, such as Music Walk, with Lincoln Center Stage, B.B. King’s Blues Club and Billboard Onboard. Guests can choose from among delectable specialty restaurants, hone culinary skills with EXC Port to Table and thrill to BBC Earth Experiences.

Oosterdam, a Vista-class ship, recently emerged from dry dock with exciting updates—including completely refreshed suites and new lounge, dining and entertainment venues, such as Music Walk, with Lincoln Center Stage, B.B. King’s Blues Club and Billboard Onboard. Guests can choose from among delectable specialty restaurants, hone culinary skills with EXC Port to Table and thrill to BBC Earth Experiences.

Basketball
Fitness Center
Gym
Pickleball

Art Gallery
Atrium
Concierge
Culinary Arts Center
Duty-free shop
Future Cruise Sales
Observation Deck
Photo Gallery
Shopping Gallery
Shore Excursion Office
Wrap Around Promenade Deck

Digital Workshop
Internet Access Lounge

Crow’s Nest
Explorers Lounge
Neptune Lounge
Night Club
Queen’s Show Lounge

Canaletto Restaurant
Explorations Cafe
Grill
Lido Bar
Lido Casual Restaurant
Piano Bar
Pinnacle Grill
Sports Bar
Terrace Grill
The Verandah
Vista Dining Room

Beauty Salon
Greenhouse Spa & Salon
Hydro Massage Pool
Lido Pool
Spa
Whirlpool

Card Room
Club HAL
Golf Simulator
Indoor Pool
Library
Nightclub
Outdoor Pool
The Loft

Description

Oosterdam, a Vista-class ship, recently emerged from dry dock with exciting updates—including completely refreshed suites and new lounge, dining and entertainment venues, such as Music Walk, with Lincoln Center Stage, B.B. King’s Blues Club and Billboard Onboard. Guests can choose from among delectable specialty restaurants, hone culinary skills with EXC Port to Table and thrill to BBC Earth Experiences.

Fitness

Basketball
Fitness Center
Gym
Pickleball

Other

Art Gallery
Atrium
Concierge
Culinary Arts Center
Duty-free shop
Future Cruise Sales
Observation Deck
Photo Gallery
Shopping Gallery
Shore Excursion Office
Wrap Around Promenade Deck

Technology

Digital Workshop
Internet Access Lounge

Entertainment

Crow’s Nest
Explorers Lounge
Neptune Lounge
Night Club
Queen’s Show Lounge

Food and Drink

Canaletto Restaurant
Explorations Cafe
Grill
Lido Bar
Lido Casual Restaurant
Piano Bar
Pinnacle Grill
Sports Bar
Terrace Grill
The Verandah
Vista Dining Room

Relaxation

Beauty Salon
Greenhouse Spa & Salon
Hydro Massage Pool
Lido Pool
Spa
Whirlpool

Recreational

Card Room
Club HAL
Golf Simulator
Indoor Pool
Library
Nightclub
Outdoor Pool
The Loft

Staterooms

outside

Approximately 174-180 sq. ft. These large staterooms include two lower beds convertible to one que ... en-size bed—our Signature Mariner’s Dream bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, premium massage shower heads and a host of amenities. The view is fully obstructed. The configuration of staterooms may vary from the images shown.

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inside

Approximately 151-233 sq. ft. Two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Marin ... er’s Dream bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, premium massage shower heads and a host of amenities are featured in these comfortable staterooms. The configuration of staterooms may vary from the images shown.

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suite

Approximately 372-384 sq. ft. including verandah These large, comfortable suites feature a spaciou ... s sitting area with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner’s Dream bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, and one sofa bed for one person. The bathroom includes a dual-sink vanity, full-size whirlpool bath and shower, and an additional shower stall. The configuration of staterooms may vary from the images shown.

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balcony

Approximately 212-359 sq. ft. including verandah Filled with light from floor-to-ceiling windows o ... verlooking a private verandah, these staterooms include a sitting area, two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner’s Dream bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, and bath tub with premium massage showerheads. The configuration of staterooms may vary from the images shown.

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Call +44 20 3943 5227 or enquire to book this cruise

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