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Dear Members and Friends of The Royal Oak Foundation,
 Join us in the Western Mediterranean in autumn, when hillsides and sienna-shaded villages reveal
the timeless beauty of this land. Our program includes masterworks of art and architecture as well as
private visits to homes and galleries, many housing stunning collections.
We are pleased to be joined by The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Associate Museum Educator,
Michael Norris, who received his MA in Classics and PhD in Medieval art history. Also accompanying us
will be the Art Institute of Chicago’s Karen Manchester, Curator of Ancient Art.
Beginning in Rome, we are privileged to visit the Vatican after hours and dine in the Palazzo Doria
Pamphilj, with its exquisite collections. Following a day at sea aboard Sea Cloud II, step ashore in Trapani
to discover the medieval “perched” village of Erice as well as Segesta, known for its Greek theater and Doric
hilltop temple. Cruise to the Sicilian capital of Palermo to explore sites such as the cathedral at nearby
Monreale, ablaze with golden mosaics. We are invited for a private lunch at the Palazzo Raffadali. Then
drive to Cefalú to view the splendid Norman cathedral.
Sail among the Aeolian Islands to the small island of Lipari, whose history dates from the Neolithic
Age, and past the active volcanic island of Stromboli. Then we cruise the Amalfi Coast to the port of
Agripoli and travel overland to Paestum, an archaeological site with impressive Greek temples. Explore
the lovely island of Capri before disembarking in Naples, where we will visit the superb National
Archaeological Museum. An optional postlude is offered in
Sorrento, featuring an excursion to the ruins of Pompeii.
Life aboard Sea Cloud II has no comparison. Her
 friendly staff, luxurious accommodations and fine dining
create an onboard ambiance of relaxed elegance. The
spacious decks are ideal for watching the energetic crew
practice the age-old art of setting the sails by hand.
We will be joined by members of The Metropolitan
Museum of Art and the Art Institute of Chicago.
Won’t you join us?
Sincerely,
John Oddy
Executive Director
The Royal Oak Foundation
Photo: Italian coast/David Noton |
