From January to May 2016, the Costa neoClassica, on its cruises that explore Ancient Greece, will be the stage for concerts by a group of 14 young prodigies from the prestigious Roman conservatory.
Costa Cruises and the Santa Cecilia Conservatory in Rome have announced an innovative initiative in keeping with the best of Italy and its unique musical traditions. From January to May 2016, the most promising young talent from the prestigious conservatory will perform aboard the Costa neoClassica on cruises to the most beautiful destinations in Ancient Greece and the spectacular Meteora.
The ship will host a group of 14 students from the Santa Cecilia Conservatory, who will alternate in four performances on each cruise. The small orchestra will consist of a conductor and seven members: piano, violin, strings, wind instruments, guitar, a tenor, and a soprano. They will perform in different formations, both solos and groups, interpreting pieces ranging from classical, baroque, and operatic works to soundtracks from some of the best films of the 20th century.
During these special events, classical Italian and international musical traditions will take center stage, alongside more contemporary offerings, in splendid shows that will allow all passengers to share a unique experience. These matinees will complement Costa's already rich entertainment offerings, characterized by Broadway-style productions with casts of renowned professionals. The program also includes exciting dance performances and lessons with professional dancers for passengers.
From January 31 to May 18, 2016, the Costa neoClassica will be sailing 13-day cruises, allowing passengers to discover the mythical sites of Ancient Greece. During extended stops (until midnight) in Kalamata and Nafplio, passengers can visit ancient Messenia, Mycenae, and Corinth, as well as lesser-known sites such as the Byzantine ghost town of Mystras and Palamidi Castle. In Athens, a visit to the Acropolis is, of course, a must. The neoClassica also calls at Volos, the gateway to excursions to the spectacular Meteora, with its ancient Orthodox monasteries perched atop enormous, smooth rock pinnacles. Before and after Greece, the cruise reaches other pearls of the Mediterranean such as Marseille (from where you can visit Avignon and Provence), Naples, Trapani (where there are also tours to the Egadi Islands, Erice, Segesta and Marsala), and Savona, where there is an opportunity to visit the medieval village of Finalborgo.
Like the other neoCollection itineraries, this Costa neoClassica itinerary is ideal for anyone seeking a more leisurely and relaxed holiday, with greater flexibility both on board and ashore, and authentic experiences in the heart of each destination. Shore excursions are highly appealing: from discovering natural and artistic attractions, including UNESCO World Heritage sites, to exciting experiences with longer port calls and premium specially designed for small groups. On board, passengers will find the best of Italian hospitality, cuisine, and entertainment, featuring many of Italy's finest brands, for a truly unforgettable holiday. Passengers should look forward to the expert meetings in each port, where they will learn about the history and natural landscape of each Costa neoClassica destination.
