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The 45-minutes drive south from Salerno along the Autostrada affords magnificent views of the Bay of Naples and Mt. Vesuvius-the still-active volcano that caused mass destruction to the cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum in 79 A.D.

Herculaneum was founded by the Greeks and was named after Hercules, the Greek god. Later it became a Roman city, and in 79 A.D., it met its ultimate demise when Mt. Vesuvius erupted. Herculaneum was buried under approximately 50 feet of mud and ash, and it stayed buried for more than 1,600 years until 1709 when sewage workers digging a well accidentally discovered it.
Today, only parts of the ancient city have been excavated, lying virtually underneath the modern cities of Ercolano and Portici.

The excavation site is surprisingly well preserved. Due to the wind direction and the timing of the precipitation, the buildings filled up with the ash-mud mixture instead of caving in structures, which aided the city's preservation. Your 2-hour guided walking tour takes you through wealthy Roman villas with portico gardens, fountains and baths. The highlights include stunning wall frescoes and intricate floor mosaics.

Afterwards, time permitting you will stop at a cameo factory where artisans have honed their craft for generations. Shop for handmade seashell and coral jewelry, including intricately carved brooches, rings and bracelets before returning to Salerno where your ship is docked.