AIA Tours: cruise

Sicily Circumnavigation

Tour Dates: May 24 - June 2, 2027 (10 days)

Tour Leader(s): James Higginbotham ,

Sailing around Sicily & Malta

Join archaeologist Jim Higginbotham, our AIA lecturer and host, on this delightful, eight-night circumnavigation of Sicily aboard the iconic, 47-cabin Sea Cloud II.

Our journey begins and ends in Valletta, Malta, one of the most concentrated historic areas in the world. Sail to Sicily and cruise clockwise around this marvelous island, bursting with archaeological and architectural wonders including the Doric Greek temple at Segesta, Palermo’s stunning Norman Palace, and the Greek theater at Taormina. Sample the rich flavors of Marsala with a guided tasting of this famed Sicilian wine, and on Syracuse’s Ortygia island enjoy a wine tasting hosted by a nobleman in a private Baroque palazzo.

In all, our itinerary features six UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including a full day in the Aeolian Islands, along with a specially timed sunset sailing through the Strait of Messina. An optional pre-trip extension is available, for an unforgettable introduction to Malta and Gozo.

Along the way, we will benefit from the knowledge and insights of a team of onboard experts, including AIA lecturer/host James Higginbotham, who will provide a series of lectures and informal discussions.

“Jim Higginbotham was excellent, well prepared, and relevant. He was also an interesting, knowledgeable traveling companion.” – Ann, Maryland

Our means of cruising from port to port is delightful. Like Marjorie Merriweather Post’s legendary Sea Cloud, the Sea Cloud II embodies the elegance and romance of a bygone era while offering the highest standards of modern comfort. This magnificent windjammer is operated by a highly skilled crew that hand-sets more than 30,000 square feet of canvas, a rare and captivating sight at sea. Life onboard seamlessly blends classic sailing traditions with refined service, spacious accommodations, and thoughtful amenities.

This program is co-sponsored by other organizations, and the Sea Cloud II has only 47 cabins, so I encourage you to contact AIA Tours today at aia@studytours.org or 800-748-6262 for your preferred cabin.

Program Rates (Per Person)

Pricing starts at $8,990 double occupancy, $13,990 single occupancy. Download the detailed brochure for more information. To reserve your space online click here.

Contact us for more information or with any questions; 800-748-6262 or email aia@studytours.org

Valletta, Malta

Erice, Sicily

Ortygia, Sicily

The Greek temple of Segesta in Sicily

Deck Plan, Sea Cloud II

Taormina, Sicily

Ortygia Fountain, Sicily

Tarxien Temple, Malta: AIA Tours - Travel with the Archaeological Institute of America

Itinerary


Monday–Tuesday, May 24–25: DEPART HOME / VALLETTA, MALTA

Wednesday, May 26: VALLETTA

Thursday, May 27: AT SEA

Friday, May 28: TRAPANI, SICILY, ITALY

Saturday, May 29: PALERMO

Sunday, May 30: LIPARI, AEOLIAN ISLANDS

Monday, May 31: GIARDINI NAXOS

Tuesday, June 1: SYRACUSE

Wednesday, June 2: VALLETTA, MALTA / HOME


MALTA PRE-TRIP EXTENSION
May 22–25, 2027

View Detailed Itinerary

Monday–Tuesday, May 24–25: DEPART HOME / VALLETTA, MALTA
Overnight flight to Valletta, a city known for its Baroque architecture, historic fortifications, and charming cafés that reflect its rich heritage. Upon arrival on May 25th, transfer to Sea Cloud II and meet fellow travelers at a welcome orientation and reception. Sea Cloud II (R,D)

Wednesday, May 26: VALLETTA
Start the day with two full-day excursions to choose from. Explore Malta’s prehistoric and archaeological treasures with visits to the National Archaeological Museum, Tarxien Temples, and the Hypogeum, an underground site renowned for its prehistoric significance. Alternatively, tour Valletta’s architecture, including the ornate interiors of St. John’s Co- Cathedral and modern works by Renzo Piano. Depart in the evening, sailing from the historic harbor toward Sicily. Sea Cloud II (B,L,D)

Thursday, May 27: AT SEA
Enjoy a full day under sail. As part of the educational program, attend a lecture, take a guided tour of the ship, or, weather permitting, use the tenders to photograph Sea Cloud II. In the evening, the Captain’s welcome reception and dinner provide the perfect opportunity to mingle with your fellow travelers. Sea Cloud II (B,L,R,D)

Friday, May 28: TRAPANI, SICILY, ITALY
Begin the day exploring the Doric Greek temple at Segesta, perched on Mount Barbaro with panoramic views over Sicily’s countryside. Later, choose between two afternoon excursions, one being a visit to the medieval hilltop town of Erice, known for its cobbled streets and Norman castle; or sample the fortified wines of Marsala with a guided tasting. Sea Cloud II (B,L,D)

Saturday, May 29: PALERMO
Spend the morning visiting Palermo’s Norman castle, Capella Palatina, with its stunning mosaics; and Monreale Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy lunch in Palermo’s Old Town, followed by two afternoon options: 1) The Abatellis Art Museum, which houses Sicilian and Renaissance masterpieces; or 2) The Archaeological Museum, featuring an impressive collection of ancient artifacts. Sea Cloud II (B,L,D)

Sunday, May 30: LIPARI, AEOLIAN ISLANDS
Discover Lipari with either a walking tour that includes the Archaeological Museum, or take a scenic drive with free time to wander the town’s charming streets and coastline. In the afternoon, enjoy swimming, sailing, and educational programming, followed by a sunset cruise past Stromboli to see its volcanic activity. Sea Cloud II (B,L,D)

Monday, May 31: GIARDINI NAXOS
Embark on one of two morning excursions: 1) To Mount Etna, visiting Silvestri Crater and riding the cable car to the summit; or 2) Head to Taormina to tour the 3rd-century B.C. Greek theater and enjoy free time in town. The afternoon is dedicated to relaxation on deck while taking in Sicily’s coastline. Sea Cloud II (B,L,D)

Tuesday, June 1: SYRACUSE
Tour Syracuse Archaeological Park, then stroll through Ortygia Island, experiencing the morning market and Cathedral Square. In a private Baroque palazzo, enjoy a wine tasting hosted by a nobleman. The afternoon is spent cruising to Malta, concluding with the Captain’s farewell reception and dinner. Sea Cloud II (B,L,R,D)

Wednesday, June 2: VALLETTA, MALTA / HOME
Disembark and transfer to the airport for flights home. (B)


MALTA PRE-TRIP EXTENSION

May 22–25, 2027

This two-night, pre-trip extension offers an unforgettable introduction to Malta beyond its capital. Discover the island’s stunning landscapes and local charm, including a day trip to the idyllic island of Gozo to see the world’s oldest megalithic temples. Explore the south coast, starting with the awe-inspiring prehistoric complex at Haġar Qim, then visit the colorful fishing village of Marsaxlokk. Dine within the walled city of M’dina, and spend two nights at the Malta Marriott Resort. Cross to the smaller island of Gozo to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ġgantija and the charming city of Victoria, then return to Valletta to join the main Sea Cloud II program with the rest of the group. Further details and pricing will be sent to confirmed participants.


For reservations or questions, please email us at aia@studytours.org (and include your full name) or call us toll-free at (800) 748-6262 (toll: 603-756-2884). To reserve your space using the online form, click here.

support Us

The AIA is North America's largest and oldest nonprofit organization dedicated to archaeology. The Institute advances awareness, education, fieldwork, preservation, publication, and research of archaeological sites and cultural heritage throughout the world. Your contribution makes a difference.