Experience la dolce vita while indulging in the beauty and pleasures of Italy and Greece. Set sail in the unforgettable Greek isles and SCUBA dive clear waters with views 50 feet down. Step back in time in Athens and Rome among classical art, architecture and archaeology. Windsurf in the warmth of Sardinia’s dazzling turquoise waters. Savor sun-soaked beaches, sample Sardinia’s “musical” bread, and breathe in the scent of rosemary and juniper growing wild. Return home with a sense of having truly embraced the best of the Mediterranean.
“As I look back at the last 22 days, I can't believe the amazing memories I've made and how many friends I have made who I can trust and turn to. This group was incredible on so many levels. I've never experienced such accepting, funny and bonded friends. Thank you ARCC for memories I totally would not have made otherwise.”
— Alex C.C., ARCC Student
Discovering Rome
Our European Blue Water summer adventure begins in Rome, where we explore the Eternal City before heading out into the Mediterranean. After visiting the Coliseum and experiencing the feeling of centuries of history, we will understand why they say that “Rome wasn’t built in a day!”
Windsurfing Italian Coastline
Sardinia, dotted with stone fortresses of ancient warrior-kings and fiercely defended for centuries, has retained its own language, customs and traditions. Harnessing Sardinia’s warm summer breezes, we learn how to windsurf in Porto Pollo, hailed as Europe’s windsurfing capital. With its protected exposure to wind and waves, Porto Pollo provides a safe haven for beginners to learn in its enchanting twin bays. Our student friendly boards, the gentle winds, and the transparent warm waters combine to make this an ideal place to learn this fun sport.
SCUBA Diving Certification
Known for jewel blue waters teeming with fish, naturally Sardinia is also famous for its world class SCUBA diving. In these stunning waters our group spends four days earning our PADI Open Water certification, or earning our Advanced certification. (All students wishing to SCUBA dive must pass a thorough diving physical and cannot have used an inhaler or suffered from asthma in the past three years. For those not wishing to dive, alternative water activities are available.)
Sailing Through Greece
Working our way across Italy, we arrive in stunning Corfu, Greece and board our sailboats for five days of sailing adventure. We take advantage of Greece’s delightful summer sailing conditions and cruise among the many islands offering miles of golden beaches and stunning vistas. There are countless opportunities to swim or boat ashore and explore the many lush islands and picturesque villages we pass along the way.
Exploring Athens
Our group concludes the adventure in Athens, home to ancient history and modern Olympics. We stay just downhill from the famous Parthenon in the fascinating Plaka district of Athens. We will explore this labyrinth of narrow windy streets, visiting such monumental sites as the Acropolis and the colossal Temple of Olympian Zeus. We spend our last night together with a closing celebration before heading back to the States.
