‘In Pursuit of Caravaggio’

Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio (1571–1610) revolutionized painting in Italy with his passionate style, and his works and life are the focus of a 13-day/12-night cruise of MS Columbus, Sept. 20-Oct. 2, 2009.

The Columbus, built to carry 420 passengers, will have only 236 on this cruise, which includes Rome, Naples, “Magna Graecia” (classical-era Greek colonies) and Sicily in Italy; Valetta in Malta, and Tunis, Tunisia. There will be private concerts, lectures on art and volcanoes, and chances to see Caravaggio’s works in their original settings.

Including airfare from London to Milan and return from Tunis as well as all tips and taxes, rates start at £2,990 (near $5,273), double, for an inside cabin. Single supplement starts at £690 ($1,217). An outside suite with a private terrace costs £7,580 ($13,369).

Optional excursions include a half day to Mt. Vesuvius and Pompeii (£45 each) and a full day to Mt. Etna (£95). 

Martin Randall Travel (Voysey House, Barclay Mow Passage, London, W4 4 GF, UK; phone 020 8742 3355, fax 8742 7766, www.martinrandall.com).