Venice to Rome Cruise
We changed our plans from spending two weeks in Rome to booking the Regent Seven Seas Voyager for a voyage from Venice to Rome. Although we only stayed one night in Venice, I had the chance to capture some early morning photos, especially in St. Mark’s Square, which looked stunning after a rainy night. You’ll see images of the receding Acqua Alta and the remarkable absence of visitors—it was a rare and magical experience. Our ship then set sail down the Adriatic, stopping at several Mediterranean ports before reaching Sicily. The highlight of the journey for me was definitely Sicily, with its vibrant cities of Messina, Siracusa, and Palermo offering unforgettable sights and rich culture. First up is Venice.
November, 2025
Venice
Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute appears in the background of this gondola.
St. Mark's Basilica with reflection created by the night's acqua alta.
Venice's narrowest canals barely accommodate a gondola's width.
On our way to Sicily
After leaving Venice, we sailed down the Adriatic and experienced some beautiful ports along the way. Kotor, Corfu, Argostoli, and finally Malta. All held a special place in our memories.
Kotor welcomed us with its stunning medieval walls and dramatic fjord-like bay, where the mountains meet crystal-clear waters.
Corfu was a lush, green paradise with its vibrant bougainvillea and Venetian fortresses overlooking the sea. We enjoyed exploring the mix of cultures and savoring fresh seafood with a view that stretched out across the sparkling Ionian Sea.
Argostoli, on the island of Kefalonia, offered a peaceful retreat with its laid-back vibe and beautiful beaches. The harbor’s colorful fishing boats and lively town market brought a genuine, local feel to our day there.
Dramatic entry into the bay of Kotor - winds and rain early in the morning.
View of Voyager's upper deck as we approach Kotor.
Crew member ringing the bell to inform the captain of the water's depth. Each bell ring registered a different depth.
Kotor
Stone archway leading into the old town of Kotor.
Greek fisherman cleaning the day's catch.
Voyager seen in the Greek port of Argostoli.
Argostoli promenade.
Welcome to Kefalonia.
Sicily and Malta
Sicily and Malta were absolutely incredible destinations to explore. Although we had visited Messina in Sicily on a previous trip, our stays in both Siracusa and Palermo this time around were truly stunning and unforgettable. And of course, what’s not to love about Malta—its charm and beauty never fail to impress.
Palermo Cathedral
Palermo Carabinieri in formal dress uniforms.
Siracusa baroque palazzo
Sicilian wedding in Siracusa with accordion player providing ambiance.
Piazza del Duomo in Ortigia a focal point in Siracusa.
Piazza del Duomo in Ortigia a focal point in Siracusa.
Absolutely delicious bruschettona in Siracusa to make our day.
Our pizza that we shared was cut in two for us.
And a delicious Sicilian Nero D'Avola Wine.
Ortigia Island's fortified waterfront marks the ancient heart of Siracusa.
The saluting battery at Valetta.
The saluting battery at Valetta.
The upper Barrakka Gardens offer one of Malta's most commanding views over the Grand Harbor.
The Triton Fountain marks Valletta's main entrance.
It's almost my name - it just needs another "E".
Marc & Rich standing in front of Valletta's British phone booth.
Let’s Not Forget Our Ports in Italy
Traveling through Italy, we had the chance to explore the port of Brindisi, which paved the way for our adventure in the stunning city of Lecce—truly a hidden gem full of baroque charm and vibrant streets. Our journey also brought us to Amalfi, where the local passion for lemons was unforgettable. From fragrant lemon groves to tangy limoncello, the city’s citrus culture adds a bright, zesty flavor to the Amalfi Coast experience.
Column of Sant'Oronzo marks Lecce's historic center.
Basilica of Santa Croce with its decorative figures.
Ancient Roman amphitheater wasn't discovered until 1901.
Porta Napoli was built in 1548 to honor Charles V, marking the official entrance to Lecce from Naples.
Historic beige stone building with ornate window frames, small balconies with iron railings, palm trees in large planters, parked bicycle, and vintage-style street lamps.
A friendly wave from a local resident - so cute.
Morning catch at Amalfi's harbor.
The majolica-tiled dome is a signature of Amalfi Coast churches.
Amalfi's dramatic coastline.
Pastel-colored buildings cascade down the limestone cliffs.
Amalfi's natural harbor balances working fishing boats with tourist ferries arriving from Positano and Capri.
Duomo di Amalfi's Arab-Norman facade and sweeping staircase.
Sailing past Mount Vesuvius as we departed the Bay of Naples.