This cruise appealed to us because of its unique ports of call, which exceeded expectations.

We commenced and ended our journey with a tour of Northern Italy. We spent 3 nights in historic Genoa, at Hotel Soana, centrally located near the Oriental Market.

Prior to embarkation, we took the lift to Spianata di Castello, which is the best lookout in the city, with panoramic views of the old town, port, surrounding hills and the sea. When we walked around the lookout, we spotted the Lirica, looking majestic, waiting for us in port. Read more