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ig into the remnants of our forbears who turned what is now Greece, Turkey, and Italy into the foundations of Western civilization. On a cruise through the Mediterranean aboard the all-suite, 114-passenger Corinthian II, come see how history gets personal.

Four experts enlighten us along the way from Rome to Istanbul. Our host, National Trust trustee Adele Chatfield-Taylor, is an authority on historic preservation and urban design and president of the American Academy in Rome. Having taught for many years, she’s well equipped to share her insights along the way. In Greece, two professors add to our lessons—John Papadopoulos, professor of Classics and Archaeology at UCLA; and Sarah Morris, a classicist and archaeologist at UCLA and its Cotsen Institute of Archaeology. Finally, Andrew Kepler, a New York-based architect, illuminates the connection between past and present.

We begin in Rome, Italy, naturally. Embark the Corinthian II, and we’re off to ancient Paestum for a look at a Doric temple complex, one of the world’s finest examples.

Then Sicily, where Syracuse was once a city to be reckoned with. Step inside her Roman amphitheater, and enjoy a private reception in Palazzo Beneventano. The resident baron is our host for the evening.

To Athens, Greece, another hub of early civilization. Tour the Acropolis, Pericles’s masterpiece, with an historic preservationist, who gives us the inside story on current projects. And see modern sites such as Calatrava’s Olympic stadium.

Contrast and compare.

If Athens is old hat, opt instead for a visit to Brauron, site of the ancient Sanctuary of Artemis, and to nearby Marathon, scene of a legendary battle (and a protracted run).

Santorini is one fine Cycladic island. Fall in love with this black-sand beauty whose top popped during an eruption during the second century B.C.

Into Turkey. Priene, first, well preserved example of a late-Classical Age settlement. A fine intro to our next site, Ephesus, one of the world’s great archaeological treasures. With a hand-picked local guide, go behind the scenes and end with a private dinner in the courtyard of the Library of Celsus. Truly unforgettable.

Pergamum rounds out our Turkey trot. Founded by the heirs of Alexander the Great, it was known in the Hellenistic times as Asia Minor’s most beautiful city.

Disembark in Istanbul, and head home, or join us for a post-cruise, one-night stay in this fabled city.

There is also a two-night, pre-cruise extension available in Rome. Before we board the Corinthian II, consider joining us for art-filled days in the Eternal City. See Nero’s Domus Aurea, the Ostia Antica, and more. Sit down to a private dinner in the 17th-century Palazzo Doria Pamphilj, and meet with Rome officials overseeing the city’s renovation. Speak to your R. Crusoe & Son tour specialist for details.

Rediscovering the Classical World. 10 Days.