Medieval Cities of the Mediterranean with Chris Smith

Chris Smith has had a remarkably successful career in Australian media’s topflight of personalities. Well respected and well loved by his audiences, Chris started his media career where many of the greats do, in regional radio.

Back in the big smoke, he worked as a senior reporter for Seven News and travelled the world covering dramatic events. It was at Channel Nine that he not only made his mark as an award-winning reporter with “A Current Affair” but drove the show as it’s Chief of Staff under hosts Jana Wendt, Mike Willesee, Mike Munro and Ray Martin.

Chris hit the international stage when he was poached by French media company “Lagardere” to broadcast from Beijing, as the first westerner to go to air live on China Radio International. He was also elevated to the position of program director and deputy MD China.

On his return to Australia in 2000, Chris came back to his first love, radio. Being appointed as Program director and Afternoon Show host at Macquarie Radio Network Sydney…where he was instrumental in reviving this brand, from near the bottom of the ratings ladder, to begin a golden era at the top. Chris’s very own Afternoon Show stayed at number 1 for no less than 84 surveys. With Chris on board at the Super Radio Network the future looks bright indeed.

Always a catalyst of change and innovation Chris kept close to the rough and tumble of television bringing to life a groundbreaking talk show format on Sky News Australia, which he was the inaugural host of. He also hosted “Chris Smith and Friends”, followed by a more orientated “Chris Smith Tonight” each Sunday night. Chris has also had 20 years of cameo’s on both Channel 7’s “Sunrise” program and Channel Nine’s “Today Show”. More recently appeared as a current affairs commentator on “Credlin” and “Paul Murray Live”.

Chris now calls the Super Radio Network his home, broadcasting to 25 stations and a potential audience of over 7.7 million people. throughout NSW, Southeast Queensland, Far Northern Qld & The Alice.

Chris’s unique blend of storytelling, warmth and sincerity makes him an ideal network radio host and fascinating travelling companion as you’ll find out. His ability to talk to anyone be it a Prime Minister, to a brickie is a testament to his character. Never short of a story and never one to back down.

Chris Smith

Itinerary

DAY 1 Sunday 28 June, 2026 Depart Australia
Today we board our flights to Rome, Italy.

DAY 2 Monday 29 June, 2026 Rome, Italy
This morning we arrive into Rome. After clearing customs, we will be met by our private coach and travel to central Rome. We will enjoy a sightseeing tour of the ‘Eternal City’ and see the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain, where group members can throw a coin and make a wish to return to Rome one day. In the afternoon we will check in to our hotel.

DAY 3 Tuesday 30 June, 2026 Embarkation
This morning we will be transferred to Citivecchia the port of Rome for embarkation onto the Celebrity Equinox and the start of our 9 night cruise of the Mediterranean.

DAY 4 Wednesday 1 July, 2026 Sorrento, Italy
We arrive into Sorrento this morning. We have a morning tour of the beautiful resort town of Sorrento with its spectacular views of the Bay of Naples. We then visit the ancient, perfectly preserved ruins of Pompeii, a wealthy settlement of the Roman Empire, destroyed by the eruption of Vesuvius in 79AD. We will have a tour of the ruins with a local guide to see the Forum, the House of the Vetti, a well preserved aristocratic villa and much more.

DAY 5 Thursday 2 July, 2026 At Sea
A day at sea to enjoy the facilities of the ship. This afternoon Chris Smith will give a talk about his life in the media for tour members.

DAY 6 Friday 3 July, 2026 Portofino, Italy
This morning we arrive at the beautiful seaside town Santa Margherita Ligure, a fashionable seaside resort on the Portofino Peninsular. We then catch a ferry to the picturesque town of Portofino, holiday destination to the rich and famous. We will explore the town and have time for lunch before returning to the ship.

DAY 7 Saturday 4 July, 2026 Tuscany, Italy
This morning we arrive in the port city of Livorno. We travel through the Tuscan countryside to the town of San Gimignano, known as the “City of Beautiful Towers”, a classic medieval walled hill-town in Tuscany, famous for its architecture and its 14 surviving towers creating a beautiful skyline visible from the surrounding countryside.

DAY 8 Sunday 5 July, 2026 Tuscany, Italy
Today we visit the historic Tuscan town of Lucca. Explore the historic streets and see the well-preserved Renaissance walls, perfect for walking or cycling, and the unique Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, built on the ruins of a Roman Amphitheatre. We then visit the town of Pisa where we see the field of Mars and the famous leaning tower.

DAY 9 Monday 6 July, 2026 Nice, France
This morning we arrive in the city of Nice. We travel to the fairy-tale principality of Monaco to Monte Carlo, most noted for its glamorous atmosphere and considered Monaco’s wealthiest district. We see the Formula One Grand Prix circuit, the cathedral (built in 1878) where Princess Grace is buried and the Royal Palace, home to Prince Albert 2 We also see the famous casino in Monte Carlo. We will travel along the Grand Cornice road, the most famous panorama road in the world, and see the spectacular French Riviera, with its numerous beaches as we head back to Nice.

DAY 10 Tuesday 7 July, 2026 Aix-en-Provence, France
Today we arrive in Marseilles, France. We board our coach to travel to Aix-en-Provence, the old capital of Provence, for a sightseeing tour. We will see the Old Town with its attractive 18th and 19th-century squares, many of them with attractive fountains in their centre. A graceful city known for its beautiful sandstone buildings. There will also be time to explore the many interesting shops and cafés.

DAY 11 Wednesday 8 July, 2026 At Sea
A day at sea to enjoy the facilities of the ship. This afternoon Chris Smith will run a fun session for tour members.

DAY 12 Thursday 9 July, 2026 Barcelona, Spain
Today we arrive in Barcelona, capital of Catalonia, and second-largest city in Spain. After disembarking the ship, we will have a sightseeing tour of the city. In Barcelona’s gothic quarter we will see the historic cathedral and the medieval streets and the modernist Eixample district, known for the architecture of Antoni Gaudi. We see some of Gaudi’s architecture, including the famous Sagrada Familia. We then transfer to our hotel.

DAY 13 Friday 10 July, 2026 Barcelona
Today we travel into the mountains above Barcelona to the historic monastery of Montserrat, founded in 1025 and, according to legend, the resting place of the Holy Grail. We will see the famous Black Madonna of Montserrat and admire the amazing views before we return to Barcelona.

DAY 14 Saturday 11 July, 2026 Carcassonne, France
Today we travel north towards France and the city of Carcassonne. We first stop at the town of Figueres were we visit the Salvador Dali museum. We see the largest collections of Dali’s works in the world in a unique architectural building in the town were Dali lived. After lunch we continue on to our hotel in Carcassonne.

DAY 15 Sunday 12 July, 2026 Carcassonne
Today we have a tour of the amazing historic fortress of Carcassonne. One of the best preserved medieval fortresses on the world. The fortified city consists of a concentric design of two outer walls with 53 towers. It dates from the late Middle Ages. The afternoon will be free to explore the city and castle.

DAY 16 Monday 13 July, 2026 Paris, France
Today we will depart Carcassonne and transfer to the station for our exciting TGV train ride to Paris. Travel at up to 320kmph and admire the French countryside as we travel to Paris. On arrival we then check into our hotel.

DAY 17 Tuesday 14 July, 2026 Paris
Today we have a sightseeing tour of Paris. We will see the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triumph, Champs-Élysée, and other highlights of Paris. This evening we will have a final celebratory dinner up in the Eiffel tower.

DAY 18 Wednesday 15 July, 2026 Departure
This morning we are transferred to the airport for the flight back to Australia. Alternately stay on in Paris for a few days (at additional cost).

DAY 19 Thursday 16 July, 2026 Arrival Australia
Tour members arrive back in Australia. The tour concludes.

Celebrity Equinox

Celebrity Equinox

Celebrity Equinox has new amenities not available on any other Celebrity ship – you willhave your expectations exceeded as soon as you step on board. Delight in the choice of tenexceptional dining venues. Enjoy craft beer andcomfort food in the new Craft Social and siprefreshing frozen cocktails on the pool deck atSlush. A unique experience at sea, feel grassbeneath your feet at the relaxing Lawn Club.Every imaginable comfort complimented byCelebrity’s unrivalled guest services promisesan unsurpassed cruise experience no matteryour destination.

Clothing on board Celebrity Equinox
Daytime dress is casual. Ensure that you wearshoes and a cover-up over a bathing suit whenwalking through the interior of the ship. Mostevenings, Smart Casual is appropriate andcan be defined as slacks and sports shirts orsweater for men and a skirt or trousers andsweater or blouse for women. Shorts, flip-flops,swimwear, distressed jeans and men’s tank topsare best left to daytime and the poolside.

Travelling on your own?

About a third of people on the cruise ships are singles. We will endeavour to match people in twin-share cabins when available to save you the single supplement. The Travelrite team will look after you. Travelling with a group offers security and camaraderie.

Fantastic Value! – nothing more to pay

The Travelrite escorted Celebrity Equinox cruise represents amazing value. There are no costly extras; everything is included in the one great price!

What’s Included

  • 9 nights travel on the Celebrity Equinox in the selected cabin category
  • Tour leadership by 2SM’s Chris Smith
  • All meals, entertainment, and service charges on Celebrity Equinox
  • Tour management by Cruise Offers Pty Ltd
  • Economy-class air travel from Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane to Rome and return from Paris
  • Sightseeing tours as listed in the itinerary
  • One nights’ accommodation in a four-star hotel in Rome including breakfast
  • Two nights’ accommodation in a four-star hotel in Barcelona including breakfast
  • Two nights’ accommodation in a three-star hotel in Carcassone including breakfast
  • Two nights’ accommodation in a four-star hotel in Paris including breakfast
  • Port and handling charges on Celebrity Equinox
  • Cruise taxes and gratuities on Celebrity Equinox
  • Air taxes and surcharges – increases will be added to your final account

Not Included

  • Passport and visa fees
  • Travel insurance
  • Meals unless specified in the itinerary
  • Sightseeing and general expenses unless specified in the itinerary
  • Additional travel arrangements not in the detailed itinerary will be quoted for separately

Availability

All cabins are subject to availability. There are fare reductions available for the 3rd and 4th persons sharing in some twin cabins. Please call for details on 1800 630 343.

Extending

You can stay longer in Europe for minimal additional cost. Please contact 1800 630 343 for more information.

Pricing

 

Cabin Description Deck Twin Fare Single Fare
12 Inside Stateroom 2 3 $11,750 $16,435
O2 Outside Stateroom 2 3 6 $12,150 $16,995
O1 Outside Stateroom 2 3 6 7 $12,150 $16,995
V3 Balcony Stateroom
(partial view)
7 8 9 $12,150 $16,995
V2 Balcony Stateroom 6 7 8 $12,265 $17,250
V1 Balcony Stateroom 7 9 $12,475 $17,650
C2 Concierge Balcony 7 8 9 $12,565 $17,840
C1 Concierge Balcony 7 8 9 $12,640 $17,985
A2 Aqua Balcony 9 11 $13,615 $19,895
Included port and handling charges $614 $1,014
Included gratuities $250 $250
Included air taxes $225 $225

Terms and Conditions

TOUR OPERATOR:
Cruise Offers Pty Ltd (ABN 64 005 817 078) is the tour organiser. Celebrity Equinox is operated by Celebrity Cruise Lines are subject to the terms and conditions and general information detailed in the Celebrity Cruise Lines brochure. All passengers must complete and sign a Cruise Offers booking form and complete the cruise personaliser on the Celebrity Cruise Lines website.

DEPOSIT AND PAYMENT:
A non-refundable deposit of $1,200 per passenger should be sent with a completed Cruise Offers booking form that lists your requested cabin category. As soon as the booking is confirmed (usually within 24 hours) a cruise confirmation advice will be posted to the client. Final payments are due to be paid to Cruise Offers 100 days prior to the commencement of the fly/ cruise. A 1.5% administration fee will be added to all payments made by credit card. If fares and air taxes change due to government and airport regulations and currency fluctuations Cruise Offers reserves the right to charge additional amounts.

CANCELLATION CHARGES:
Number of days before sailing. Days prior to Departure Cancellation Fee Over 100 days $1,200 99 days or less 100% of full fare Non-appearance/no written notice: 100% of full fare.

REFUNDS:
The tour is based on arrangements that do not allow for any refunds in respect to sightseeing, accommodation, meals, airfare or other services not utilised after the tour has commenced.

TRAVEL DOCUMENTS:
All passengers will require a valid passport.

TRAVEL INSURANCE:
Adequate travel insurance is highly recommended to cover cruise members for the consequences of unforeseen events during the cruise and for cancellation fees which could result from events such as illness, accident, death etc.

BAGGAGE:
Passengers qualify for a 23kg free baggage allowance on flights to join or return from the cruise.

MINIMUM TOUR NUMBERS:
The fly/cruise arrangements have been made on the basis of a minimum number of passengers travelling. In the event that less than the required number of passengers have confirmed their booking 90 days from the date of departure, Cruise Offers reserve the right to cancel the tour, giving a full refund of monies paid, or offer arrangements to proceed with the tour at a modified fare.

RESPONSIBILITY:
Cruise Offers Pty Ltd is the tour organiser. Cruise Offers Pty Ltd, its agents, officers, affiliates, and/ or suppliers of services pursuant to or in connection with this fly/ cruise shall act only as agents in making arrangements for hotels, transportation, including transportation by ship, restaurants, or any other service and do not assume any liability whatsoever for any injury, damage, death, loss, accident or delay to person or property due to an act of negligence or a default of any hotel, carrier restaurant company or person rendering any services included in fly/cruises, acts of terrorism, acts of God, acts of Government or any other authorities. Further, no responsibilities are accepted for any damage or delay due to sickness, pilferage, labour disputes, machinery breakdown, quarantine, government restraints, weather or other causes beyond their control. No responsibility is accepted for any additional expense, omission, delays, re-routing or acts of any government authority. Baggage is at owners risk throughout the fly/cruise. The passage contract between the carriers concerned when issued, shall constitute the sole contract between the carriers and the purchasers of this fly/cruise and/or the passengers. The right is reserved to withdraw any fly/cruise and/ or make such changes in the fly/cruise as may be found desirable or necessary for the convenience of the parties and the proper carrying out of the fly/ cruise. This contract shall be construed in accordance of the laws of the State of Victoria, Australia and any legal action must be undertaken in the State of Victoria. Attention is also directed to the terms and conditions of the fly/cruise passage contract with Celebrity Cruise Lines, detailed on the back of the reservation form. If you do not have a copy of this form please contact us and we will send one to you.

DELAYS AND UNFORESEEN EVENTS:
You engage Cruise Offers to book this tour on your behalf and you acknowledge that Cruise Offers acts as your agent for the purpose of making contracts between you and the various providers of accommodation, transportation and other services that comprise the tour. Travelrite may without reference to you provide or make available to you, or may as your agent engage any third party to provide or make available to you, any good or service which Travelrite reasonably believes is necessary for your benefit to maintain the tour itinerary, repatriate you or otherwise accommodate, transport or sustain you in circumstances in which the tour itinerary fails wholly or partly for any reason. You appoint Cruise Offers your attorney for this purpose. You agree to pay Cruise Offers any cost thereof and you indemnify Cruise Offers in respect of any cost it incurs in this regard. Cruise Offers advises you to obtain travel insurance generally including in respect of the risk that any such good or service may become required.

HOW TO BOOK:
Bookings can be made by completing a booking form and sending it with a non-refundable deposit of $1,200 per person to: Cruise Offers Pty Ltd 423 Whitehorse Road Balwyn, Victoria 3103 Further information can be obtained by telephoning Toll free: 1800 630 343 Phone: (03) 8803 6868

ABOUT Cruise Offers:
Cruise Offers Pty Ltd (ABN 64 005 817 078) is a well-established travel company which has been marketing throughout Australia for over 30 years and operating in Victoria for more than 40 years. It has a fully licensed (ATAS No. 10538) office at Balwyn which is accredited with IATA. As such we directly represent the major airlines of the world and all major domestic and international hotel, tour and transport operators. Cruise Offers Pty Ltd is a full member of the Australian Travel Industry Association – ATIA.