A group of six FCTG Independent agents and their partners recently took to the seas on Viking’s 8-day Journey to Antiquities voyage from Athens to Rome.
The group was hosted by Viking Cruise Consultant Liz Sawyers as they sailed through waters once ruled by mighty empires exploring historic ports in Greece, Turkey and Italy.
On board Viking’s 930-guest small-ship Viking Sky, agents indulged in all the onboard ship offerings, including destination-inspired cuisine, afternoon tea in the Wintergarden, cocktail-making courses, the Nordic spa and fitness centre and informative lectures.
Julianne D’Allesandro was surprised at the space on board and loved the ease and smoothness of the cruise, from embarkation to disembarkation. “As a travel agent in the industry for over 30 years, this is definitely the best ocean cruise I have ever done. Spacious and so many areas to sit and relax in,” she said.
Anna Bayley concurred, commenting on the numerous facilities and the space, making it feel like such a small affair. She enjoyed the personalised service, fabulous food options and variety of shore excursions to suit everyone. “I would never have guessed that there were 900 passengers on the ship. It felt like a floating boutique hotel, with the added advantage of waking up in a different destination each day – I loved it!” she said.
Highlights from the group included climbing the largest active volcano in Europe, Mt Etna, and exploring the charming coastal town of Taormina and its spectacular Greek theatre dating to the 2nd Century. Many said the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Pompeii was not to be missed, along with a stroll through the narrow streets and alleyways of sun-kissed Sorrento.
Melissa Goodwin commented on the seamless organisation of included and optional shore excursions. “There is a wide selection of shore excursions to suit all types and interests, some included, some additional; however, they are well worth purchasing. The transportation provided is always modern and comfortable. The local guides are interesting, passionate and communicate in English clearly. These excursions enable guests to see so much more of a destination,” she said.
“Thank you to Viking for supporting us agents with these incentives, particularly after such a terrible few years passed. This was just what I needed to reinvigorate my love for our travel industry and build my confidence in cruising again,” she concluded.
