Meet your floating home away from home for the 2025 Cantiamo Italy River Cruise + Concert Tour for the San Marino HS Choirs directed by Mr. Derek Jamieson. MS Michelangelo is a boutique river cruise ship designed to provide a comfortable, safe, and unique experience for students and their families as they journey through the heart of Northern Italy. With its prime locations centered around the enchanting city of Venice and the serene Canale Bianco, this one-of-a-kind French ship with an Italian soul offers travelers an unforgettable and relaxed way to become part of Northern Italy’s rich cultural heritage. With prime concert venues galore, the choirs will be singing in stunning, historical places: cathedrals, churches and even palazzi or castelli. That’s Italian for, as you surely guessed, palaces and castles.
River Cruise Ship Layout and Amenities
Upon stepping aboard the MS Michelangelo, you’ll escape the hustle and buzz of Venice’s busy streets, which are usually packed with tourists. The ship’s layout is thoughtfully designed to maximize comfort, convenience, and enjoyment.
- Sun Deck: The Sun Deck is the perfect place to relax and take in the picturesque views that unfold along your journey. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on a lounger or hydrating with ice water or complimentary non-alcoholic beverages in the shade, the Sun Deck offers unobstructed panoramic views of the tranquil Canale Bianco and the captivating Venetian Lagoon.
- Panoramic Lounge: The panoramic lounge is designed for educational lectures, socializing, rehearsal or simply unwinding with a good book. The large windows provide sweeping views of the surrounding landscapes, making it an excellent spot to watch the world go by as you cruise through some of Italy’s most scenic waterways.
- Dining Room: Dining aboard the MS Michelangelo is a feast. The dining room, elegantly set with white linens and fine tableware, is where guests can enjoy various gourmet meals prepared by the ship’s talented chefs. The menu features regional specialties, including fresh seafood from the Venetian Lagoon, homemade pasta dishes, and decadent desserts. All meals from breakfast to dinner are complemented by unlimited water, non-alcoholic drinks — and for parents, also Italian wines.
Cabin Descriptions
The MS Michelangelo features 78 well-appointed cabins, each designed to offer a cozy retreat after a day of exploration.
- Standard Cabins: Located on the lower deck, these cabins offer twin beds that can be converted into a double bed, depending on your preference. Each cabin is equipped with en-suite facilities, a flat-screen TV, a safe, and ample storage space. The large windows allow natural light to flood in, creating a bright and welcoming atmosphere.
- Upper Deck Cabins: These cabins are similar in layout to the standard cabins but offer the added benefit of larger windows for even better views. With en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, and all the necessary amenities, these cabins provide a comfortable and serene environment for rest and relaxation.
- Comfort and Style: All cabins on the MS Michelangelo are designed with comfort in mind. Soft, neutral tones, plush bedding, and thoughtful touches such as reading lights and convenient storage options ensure that your stay aboard is as enjoyable as the destinations you’ll visit.
Exceptional Staff and Service
One of the highlights of cruising on the MS Michelangelo is the exceptional service provided by the ship’s crew. From the moment you board, the staff are there to make everyone feel welcome and safe, ensuring that your journey is as seamless and enjoyable as possible.
- Personalized Service: The crew on the MS Michelangelo is known for their friendly and attentive service. Whether it’s serving hungry (teenage) guests seconds or thirds with a smile or providing insights into the destinations, the cruise staff is dedicated to making your experience unforgettable.
- Knowledgeable Guides: Inside Europe’s bringing knowledgeable local expert guides aboard who offer enriching talks and lead excursions to various destinations you’ll be seeing. Their insights into the history, culture, and traditions of the regions you visit add depth to your experience, making each stop on your itinerary even more meaningful. Plus, by learning about each stop on the ship, you’ll maximize your time on land leaving plenty of time to sing and even get gelato.
- Hospitality: The hospitality on the MS Michelangelo reflects our high standards. The ship’s small size allows for a more personalized approach, with the staff quickly getting to know your preferences and ensuring everyone’s comfort and safety.
Prime Locations: Venice and the Canale Bianco
The MS Michelangelo’s itineraries are centered around two of Italy’s most captivating destinations: Venice and the Canale Bianco.
- Venice: Venice, with its maze of canals, historic architecture, and vibrant culture, is the crown jewel of the itinerary. You’ll have ample time to explore this iconic city, from the grandeur of St. Mark’s Basilica to the quiet charm of its lesser-known neighborhoods. Evening strolls along the canals, gondola rides, and visits to hidden artisan shops make for an immersive Venetian experience.
- Canale Bianco: As you leave the hustle and bustle of Venice behind, the ship glides along the Canale Bianco, a serene and less-traveled waterway that offers a glimpse into the traditional Venetian countryside. The journey takes you through charming towns like Porto Viro and Mazzorbo, where you can experience the authentic side of Italy. The Canale Bianco is a peaceful retreat, providing a perfect contrast to the vibrant energy of Venice.
Traveling with Inside Europe aboard the MS Michelangelo is more than just embarking on an Italian river cruise in the Veneto —it’s an opportunity to explore Italy’s hidden treasures from the comfort of a beautifully appointed ship, and allowing the singers plenty of rest for the concerts. For families seeking to come along, there’s plenty of opportunity to spend time with their singer/s and friends, enjoying a gourmet meal, or simply relaxing in your cabin. This cruise and concert tour promises an unforgettable journey that will create memories to last a lifetime.
