Archaeological Institute of America Tours and Voyages to Antiquity Expand Relationship for 2011

WALPOLE, N.H., Dec. 10, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- In 2011 the Archaeological Institute of America (AIA) travel program will send AIA lecturers on 14 voyages aboard the 350 guest, Aegean Odyssey. Operated by destination specialists, Voyages to Antiquity, each "Cruise- Tour" includes pre and/or post-cruise hotel stays and shore excursions to extraordinary ancient and medieval sites of the Mediterranean, Aegean, Adriatic, Black and Red Seas.

"After sponsoring five departures in 2010, we have expanded our relationship because feedback from AIA travelers and lecturers aboard Aegean Odyssey has been very positive," said Todd Nielsen, AIA Tours Director. "Our travelers enjoy the combination of extraordinary value, visiting world-renowned sites with AIA experts, and the generous comfort of the 350 guest Aegean Odyssey. AIA lecturers are both approachable and knowledgeable, helping introduce inquisitive travelers to the archaeology, architecture and art of the many marvelous ancient sites we explore."

Mitchell J. Schlesinger, Vice President, Sales & Marketing for Voyages to Antiquity said, "We are very excited to expand our relationship with AIA Tours, one of the most prestigious organizations in the educational travel arena. The addition of AIA lecturers on 14 voyages in 2011 significantly enhances our onboard lecture program, which, in conjunction with the extensive shore excursion program, combines to offer the cruise industry's most indepth enrichment product."

AIA is North America's oldest and largest organization devoted to the world of archaeology. Founded in 1879, AIA has nearly 250,000 Members belonging to more than 100 Local Societies in the United States, Canada, and overseas. Members include professional archaeologists, students, and adults from all walks of life united by their shared passion for archaeology and its role in furthering human knowledge.

Nielsen adds, "These value-priced cruise programs significantly broaden our outreach. All accommodations aboard Aegean Odyssey, particularly deluxe ocean view and balcony staterooms, represent a fantastic value. As one recent AIA traveler wrote: 'I felt that I received a valuable trip at a reasonable price.'"

Programs include all shipboard accommodations, pre-and/or post-cruise hotel stays, all meals aboard ship (including wine at dinner, afternoon tea and pastries, and late night snacks), gratuities to ship's staff, an extensive program of shore excursions, and a fascinating lecture program aboard ship. Rates start at under $3,500 per person for a 14-16 day program, including airfare from over 60 North American gateways, if booked by February 28, 2011. "Since special offers are subject to availability and can be withdrawn by the cruise line at any time, AIA Tours encourages travelers to reserve their space as soon as possible," said Nielsen.

For more information about these value-priced AIA Tours go to the AIA web site at aiatours.org, email [email protected] or call toll free 800-748-6262 Monday-Friday, 9-5 ET.  Download AIA Tours Value-Priced Voyage catalog (PDF).  Contact Todd Nielsen or Lauren Cummings at AIA Tours with questions.

SOURCE Archaeological Institute of America