Here We Come! | Carnival Miracle
12-day Mediterranean Cruise from Italy

🎟️ Table of Contents🎟️

• Airfare (TBD)
• CG Day 1 🛫Wed. 8/20/25 | Cerchio Group Departure
• CG Day 2 🛬Thu. 8/21/25 | Cerchio Group Arrival in Naples
  • 🏨 Hotel La Bussola, Amalfi – 1st Night
• CG Day 3 🏨 Hotel La Bussola, Amalfi – 2nd Night
• CG Day 4 🏨 Hotel La Bussola, Amalfi – 3rd Night
  • 🚙Transfer by Private Van to Civitavecchia
  • 🛎️Hotel de la Ville 1 Night
• Pre-cruise | Train from Rome and Fiumicino to Civitavecchia Port
• Pre-cruise | Sun. 08/24/25 | Civitavecchia Hotel de la Villr- overnight stay
• Cruise Day 1 | Mon. 08/25/25 | Embark Civitavecchia (port of Rome)
• Cruise Day 2 | Tue. 08/26/25 | Fun Day at Sea
• Cruise Day 3 | Wed. 08/27/25 | Katakolon (Olympia)
• Cruise Day 4 | Thu. 08/28/25 | Fun Day at Sea
• Cruise Day 5 | Fri. 08/29/25 | Kavala (Neapolis)
• Cruise Day 6 | Sat. 08/30/25 | Istanbul
• Cruise Day 7 | Sun. 08/31/25 | Fun Day at Sea
• Cruise Day 8 | Mon. 09/01/25 | Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey
  • Private Tour Provided by Cerchio Travel
• Cruise Day 9 | Tue. 09/02/25 | Mykonos [Excursions]
• Cruise Day 10 | Wed. 09/03/25 | Piraeus (Athens)
• Cruise Day 11 | Thu. 09/04/25 | Fun Day at Sea
• Cruise Day 12 | Fri. 09/05/25 | Naples (Amalfi/Pompeii)
• Cruise Day 13 | Fri. 09/06/25 | Arrive and Disembark at Civitavecchia

Other Information

• Carnival Trip Protection vs Allianz Group Policy
• Viator Worry-Free Shore Excursions
• Mimmo Taxi- Amalfi Coast Transportation
• Transportation to Rome Hotels from Train Station
• Using the Rome Metro (subway) | Tap & Go Payments
• Wine Windows of Florence
• Claiming your VAT refund prior to departure

Pre-Cruise in Italy

Other options include a pre-cruise visit to other parts of Italy, such as 3 days in Amalfi.

If you are interested in the cruise, please contact me as soon as possible.
I have group rates, but room availability is very limited!

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AIRFARE

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CG Day 1 🛫 Mon. 8/24/25
Cerchio Group Departure

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CG Day 2 🛬Thu. 8/21/25 🍋 Amalfi
Cerchio Group Arrival in Naples

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CG Private Transfer 🚙 19 Passenger Van
Naples Airport to Amalfi 🍋 Hotel La Bussola

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CG Day 3 🍋Fri. 8/22/25 🍋 Amalfi
Hotel La Bussola🏨2nd Night

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CG Day 4 🍋Sat. 8/23/25 🍋 Amalfi
Hotel La Bussola🏨3rd Night

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CG Day 4 ➡️Depart Amalfi

🚙Transfer by Private Van to Civitavecchia

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Cruise Only

Saturday, Aug. 23, 2025. 🛩️Depart Cincinnati (CVG)
For those choosing to cruise only, arrival should be planned for Sunday, August 24, 2025.

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Sunday, Aug. 24, 2025 🛬 Arrive Rome (FCO)

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The Port of Civitavecchia (video guide)

• There are several ways to travel from Rome Fiumicino Airport to Civitavecchia:
  • Train: Take a train from Fiumicino Aeroporto to Civitavecchia via Roma Trastevere. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes. (Trenitalia video guide)
  • Bus: Alternatively, you can take a bus or a combination of bus and train. The total travel time varies but is generally around 1 hour and 27 minutes.
  • Taxi or Private Transfer: If you prefer a more direct option, consider taking a taxi or arranging a private transfer.

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Train to Civitavecchia Cruise Port (video guide)

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Overnight Stay 🏨 Hotel de La Ville, Civitavecchia

Sunday, Aug. 24, 2025 – Monday, Aug. 25, 2025

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Viator Worry Free Shore Excursions

Viator Terms and Conditions – Worry-free Excursions

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CRUISE DAY 1 | Monday 08/25/25 | Civitavecchia
Depart Civitavecchia 7 pm

We are staying overnight in the seaport of Civitavecchia, known as Rome’s cruise port. The hotel is near the cruise port. It is five minutes by taxi, or a 20 minute walk.

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CRUISE DAY 2 | Tue. 08/26/25 | FUN DAY AT SEA

No port today! It’s a great time to explore your ship and its exciting entertainment, food and activities! Or take it easy at the pool, spa, or… if you book a room with a balcony, enjoy the waves.

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CRUISE DAY 3 | Wed. 08/27/25 | Katakolon (Olympia)
Arrival 9 am – Departure 6 pm

A short distance from the fishing village and seaport of Katakolon you’ll find Olympia, where lies arguably the most important location in all of sports. It’s the site of the original Olympic Games, which went on for nearly 1,200 years, every four years, until a Roman emperor banned them in A.D. 393. The discarded ruins were uncovered only about 150 years ago — and today, Olympia’s importance is much better understood. It’s actually been declared a national park! There’s so much history on display in Olympia at the original sites, such as the Temple of Zeus, the Olympic Stadium and the Olympia Archaeological Museum, which features fine sculptures such as the “Winged Victory” statue of Nike. (Did you know she was the Greek goddess of victory?)

Information on the port.

Click here to view worry-free excursions.

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CRUISE DAY 4 | Thu. 08/28/25 | FUN DAY AT SEA

No port today! It’s a great time to explore your ship and its exciting entertainment, food and activities! Or take it easy at the pool, spa, or… if you book a room with a balcony, enjoy the waves.

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CRUISE DAY 5 | Fri. 08/29/25 | Kavala (Neapolis)
Arrival 7 am – Departure 4 pm

If you weren’t actually you but instead were the city of Kavala in northern Greece, did you know that you’d be about 2,500 years old and a pretty big deal back in your day? But since you’re looking for a vacation and Kavala is an amazing destination, why not just visit and see for yourself? So way back then, Kavala pretty much sat right between the eastern and western worlds, and a major trade route brought all sorts of people into town, bringing with them influences you can still see and visit, from a medieval fortress to mosques and even the dramatic Roman aqueduct towering high overhead. The tobacco trade also looms surprisingly large in the city’s 19th-century history, with an actual tobacco museum offering a window into this time in the city’s life.
Click here to view worry-free excursions.

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CRUISE DAY 6 | Sat. 08/30/25 | ISTANBUL
Arrival 9 am – Departure 10 pm

Sail up the Bosphorus Strait… with Europe on one side of the ship and Asia on the other! Choose sides as you follow in the footsteps of Byzantine emperors, Ottoman sultans, and modern fashionistas on your cruise to Istanbul. This is Turkey’s commercial capital, and its glittering palaces and mosaic-filled mosques line the shores, welcoming you with a cheery “merhaba” as you prepare to explore a city where carpet dealers still haggle at the 500-year-old Grand Bazaar, and rooftop bars serve creative cocktails to funky DJ beats. Check out the upside-down Medusa head sculptures at the Underground Cistern, duck into a Turkish tavern for a meal on Nevizade Street or explore ornate mosques.

Click here to view worry-free excursions.

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CRUISE DAY 7 | Sun. 08/31/25 | FUN DAY AT SEA

No port today! It’s a great time to explore your ship and its exciting entertainment, food and activities! Or take it easy at the pool, spa, or… if you book a room with a balcony, enjoy the waves.

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CRUISE DAY 8 | Mon. 09/01/25 | Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey
Arrival 8 am – Departure 5 pm

Kusadasi is fiercely proud to show off its history, which can be traced back 5,000 years. Visitors today flock here to take it all in — the city’s population shoots up every summer as folks from around the world come to hit the beaches, stroll the downtown shopping area and wonder at views of the iconic Kusadasi Castle, which stoically watches over the harbor from atop a small island nearby. Not far beyond Kusadasi is the ancient city of Ephesus. Nobody lives there today, but ancient residents left behind impressive signs of their civilization for posterity, including the Celsus Library, and an Amphitheater whose size rivals modern stadiums.

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You will visit one of the UNESCO-listed places that is Ancient City of Ephesus, walk on the streets where Apostle Paul and John walked, see the Grand Theatre of Ephesus that St. Paul preached to Ephesians, take excellent pictures of Celsus Library, explore Roman Baths, Temple of Hadrian, Public Toilets, Marble Street, Agora, etc.

You can see the superb, preserved Terrace Houses, famous for their unique mosaics and frescos. You will experience the very peaceful atmosphere of the shrine that is the most important Biblical Site in Turkey, the House of the Virgin Mary. You’ll see the Temple of Artemis which is one of the wonders of the ancient world. Upon your request, you will have a chance for a local lunch.

Some of the venues have small entrance fees that you will pay on the day of the tour, if you wish to enter those sites. The guide will arrange for ticket. More information to follow.

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Click here to view worry-free excursions.

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CRUISE DAY 9 | Tue. 09/02/25 | Mykonos
Arrival 8 am – Departure 5 pm

How’d you get so perfect, Mykonos? Check out some pics of the town and you might wonder why the buildings are so perfectly white. Or maybe you won’t wonder, since it’s easy to just get lost in awe of the island’s picturesque beauty, of how perfect it all just happens to be, from the Cycladic architecture with brilliant blue accents to the stoic windmills. Just why Mykonos became one of Greece’s most iconic international travel destinations, a nightlife capital for the rich in the ’60s and ’70s — and today continues to attract seekers of great shopping, dining and strolling — all becomes evident when you visit. Also, don’t miss Mykonos’s neighboring island, Delos, for another side of Greece, the side with archaeological ruins of temples and sanctuaries from ancient times.

Click here to view worry-free excursions.

meteoblue

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CRUISE DAY 10 | Wed. 09/03/25 | Piraeus (Athens)
Arrival 6 am – Departure 5 pm

Cruise to Athens, Greece and fall in love with the city’s unique claims to fame. This one-of-a-kind, history-rich destination can boast to not only be the home to the Olympic games throughout the ages… but also the birthplace of democracy. Talk about competitive team sports! To this day, Athens is a city as rich in history as it is immersed in mythology. On cruises from Athens, you’ll see ancient feats of architecture like the Acropolis, Parthenon and Temple of Olympian Zeus mingling with modern museums, cafes and shops across the Athenian landscape. It’s a one-of-a-kind destination, and a must-see stop on any Greek Isles cruise.

Click here to view worry-free excursions.

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CRUISE DAY 11 | Thu. 09/04/25 | FUN DAY AT SEA

No port today! It’s a great time to explore your ship and its exciting entertainment, food and activities! Or take it easy at the pool, spa, or… if you book a room with a balcony, enjoy the waves.

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CRUISE DAY 12 | Fri. 09/05/25 | Naples (Amalfi/Pompeii) 
Arrival 7 am – Departure 7 pm

Not just one of Italy’s oldest cities, but among the world’s oldest, Naples and its surrounding area has over thousands of years contributed innovations to not only the culinary and visual arts, but the development of everything from language to music. Today, you’ll feel the friendly spirit of this sunny metropolis as you sample its historic sights, fabulous shopping galleria and irresistible cuisine. But don’t limit yourself to the city itself — Mount Vesuvius, the spectacular Amalfi Coast, and the romantic isle of Capri’s famous Blue Grotto are all just a short distance away. The well-known, buried city of Pompeii is an archeological wonder, and not far from Naples.
Naples Cruise Video Guide
Click here to view worry-free excursions.

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CRUISE DAY 13 | Sat. 09/06/25 | Civitavecchia (Rome)
Arrival 6 am – Disembark Ship

In ancient times it was said that all roads lead to Rome… but in your case, the seaport of Civitavecchia is your road to Rome. Get there and you’ll find out what made the place so popular. The Vatican’s Sistine Chapel by Michelangelo, the Colosseum with its lurid history, and the Trevi Fountain — where a tossed coin promises your return — are not to be missed on any visit to the so-called “Eternal City,” one of the cradles of civilization. Take a walking tour of Rome’s many historical landmarks and enjoy the lively sidewalk cafés, ending the day alla romana strolling through the atmospheric Centro Storico.
Click here to view worry-free excursions.

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Sample Pricing for the 12 Day Cruise
Includes Carnival Vacation Protection and Gratuities

Balcony Stateroom, Double Occupancy $5200 (total for two persons)

Carnival Trip Protection Plan

When it comes to trip protection, both Carnival and Allianz offer coverage, but there are some differences. Let’s break it down:

1. Carnival’s Cruise Vacation Protection:
   • Cancellation Fee Waiver Program: If you need to cancel your cruise due to sickness, injury, death, or other qualifying reasons, Carnival refunds 100% of the unused portion of your cruise fare.
   • Travel Insurance Program: This covers additional aspects like trip interruption, baggage delay, and emergency medical expenses.
   • 24/7 Worldwide Travel Assistance: Provides support during your trip.
2. Allianz Group Advantage Plan:
   • Impressive Coverage Limits: Allianz offers high coverage limits, including emergency medical evacuation (important for cruises) and COVID-19 coverage.
   • Security Evacuation: Covers natural disasters, riots, or civil disorder.
   • Medical Expense Limits: Up to $50,000 per person.
   • Various plans provide different levels of coverages, the plan below is for coverage for two persons on this cruise, based on $8000 in non-refundable costs.

My recommendation: While Carnival’s plan is better than nothing, a traditional travel insurance plan from Allianz generally offers better benefits and coverage for a similar price. Consider your specific needs and compare the details to make an informed choice.

DISCLAIMER: The above comparison was generated using Microsoft Copilot AI and provides general information. Consult an insurance agent or provider for specific coverage and plan information.

Carnival Cancellation Penalties

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Private Guided Tour of Ephesus

• Ephesus Port Tours
  • Ephesus Port Tours will meet you at cruise port
  • 10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
• Ephesus Terrace Houses
  • This visit can be added to program
    • Entry fees will be extra.
  • Terrace Houses were the houses of upper-class people in Ephesus.
  • Famous for their gorgeous mosaics and wall paintings. 
  • 30 minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included.
• Meryemana (The Virgin Mary’s House)
  • Where Virgin Mary stayed after the crucifixion of Jesus and died.
  • Pope Paul VI visited the shrine in 1967, and ‘unofficially’ confirmed its authenticity.
  • Pope John Paul II also visited the shrine in 1979.
  • Pope Benedict XVI visited this shrine in 2006.
  • 45 minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included.
• Ancient City of Ephesus
  • Ephesus that is one of the best well-kept Greco- Roman ancient city in the world,
  • Famous for Odeon where the music concerts were given.
  • Domitian Temple which is one of the first temple dedicated for a human.
  • Celcius Library which was the third biggest library in the ancient time.
  • Amphitheatre, one of the largest amphitheatres in the world.
    • 24,000 people capacity .
    • St. Paul preached thre.
  • Roman Baths; Fountains; Temples; Agora; Love House; Public Toilets.
  • 2 hours • Admission Ticket Not Included.
• The Temple of Artemis
  • One of the seven wonders of the ancient world.
  • 15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free.
• Kusadasi Castle (Pass By)
  • Called Pigeon Island, located next to port.
  • You can see from the ship and visit on your own after the tour.
• Kusadasi Shopping Center (Pass By)
  • We will drive by Kusadasi Shopping Center,
    • Located just 5 minutes walking distance to port.
  • Your guide will point the shopping area to visit on your own after tour
• Okuz Mehmet Pasa KervansarayI (Pass By)
  • We will drive by Caravanserai that is located very closed to port.
  • Just 5 minutes walking distance, you can visit on your own after the tour.
• Kusadasi
  • The town where the ship docked.