Opera on Land and Sea
March 12 – 22, 2009

Join our wonderful host, Ron Della Chiesa, for the perfect vacation for opera lovers! We will start with three glorious days in the Florida sunshine, which includes a tour and performance at the Sarasota Opera House, followed by a seven-night cruise to the Caribbean aboard the Holland America ship “Veendam”. While on board we will enjoy private concerts by two of Boston’s favorite opera stars.

Day 1: Arrive Sarasota on Thursday, March 12, 2009. Accommodations at the beautiful, new boutique hotel “Indigo” for three nights, located in the heart of the city and within walking distance of all cultural attractions, including the Opera House. Our package includes tickets to one performance, with choice of Friday evening’s presentation of “Elixir of Love”, Saturday’s matinee of “Tosca” or Saturday evening’s performance of “L’Amico”.

Day 2: Friday, March 13: Guided tour of the Sarasota Opera House, followed by a concert “Scenes at Noon”. Luncheon with our group at “Pino’s Restaurant” directly opposite the Opera House.

Day 3: Saturday, March 14: Day at leisure. Enjoy the beach, great shopping at St. Armand’s Circle, or a trip to the Museum of Art and Ringling Brothers Museum. (Tickets provided).

Day 4: Sunday, March 15: Board coach for the Tampa Ship Terminal where we will embark on Holland America’s luxurious cruise ship “Veendam” for a Western Caribbean itinerary, which includes Key West, Belize, Santo Tomas De Castilla (Guatemala) and Costa Maya, Mexico.

While on board our seven-night cruise, we will enjoy private concerts by Boston favorites Matthew DiBattista and Megan Tillman, as well as lectures and operatic anecdotes by beloved radio personality Ron Della Chiesa. Much more entertainment and surprises, in addition to the fabulous entertainment made available on the ship.

Sunday, March 22, 2009: Arrive Tampa, depart for home.

Separate packages for either land or sea are available. Call or e-mail for pricing. All events are private, and you must book with Galaxsea Travel in order to be included in our group. A tax-deductible donation to the Opera Boston Company is included in price.