Day 1 – Athens (Piraeus), Greece
Athens offers a looking glass back in time into Greece’s powerful ancient civilisation. Art lovers, epicureans and history buffs will be delighted by the ancient ruins, museums and tavernas of this picturesque town. Just 10 minutes from the port, you’ll find the Archaeological Museum of Piraeus, filled with sculptures from the Bronze Age to the Romans. Walk to the Zea Harbour to discover how the Hellenic Maritime Museum will bring to life the grandeur of ancient Greece’s naval capacities. Jump onboard an Athens cruise and relax at the small harbour of Mikrolimano, enjoying a meal of grilled octopus and chilled with white wine at a small restaurant overlooking the sea.
Day 2 – Mykonos, Greece
Mykonos pulses with irrepressible energy. With its powder white houses, sparkling blue waters and red-hot nightlife. Nestled in the heart of Greece’s Cyclades archipelago, The Island of the Winds is as colourful as the people who call the island home. You can walk narrow marble pathways laced with purple bougainvillea blooms or go cycling on two wheels past off-the-beaten-track Ano Mera village. Explore Greece’s maritime history at Armenistis Lighthouse and check out the Folklore Museum’s Mykonian ship models. Join in the raucous beach party on Super Paradise’s shimmering sands, or watch the sun burn out beyond an Aegean horizon from an open-air seaside taverna.
Day 3 – Ephesus, (Kusadasi), Turkey
The UNESCO World Heritage ruins of Ephesus impress even those familiar with the world’s other ancient cities.
Excavations have been underway for 150 years, yet only 20 percent of the city has been uncovered. Check out the the Celsus Library — built in 117 A.D. and made up of towering columns highlighted by the statue of the goddess of wisdom. Cruises to Ephesus will give you a taste of Turkish life by strolling the seafront promenade and the bustling city centre. Walk Marble Street, paved with actual marble slabs, which takes you from downtown to the Temple of Artemis — you can still see one lone remaining column from this wonder of the ancient world.
Day 4-5 – Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul is a vibrant and historic city situated at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, and shaped by its colourful history. A city filled with stunning landmarks, such as the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace, that will captivate your attention.
The city is also famous for its bustling markets, including the Grand Bazaar which dates back to the 15th century. Foodies will delight in the impressive food scene, with an abundance of tasty street food and local restaurants offering a variety of traditional Turkish dishes. Its position on the Bosphorus Strait, separating the European and Asian sides of the city, makes it a unique destination to visit.
Day 6 – Cruising At Sea
While at sea, take time to recharge before the next adventure. Lounge by the pool, be spoiled at the spa, dine at any of the onboard restaurants or explore the thrills on each deck until we arrive at the next destination.
Day 7 – Santorini, Greece
Santorini, best known for its dramatic scenery, whitewashed villages and fiery volcanic activity. Here on one of the world’s most popular islands, adventure bubbles above the Aegean Sea in the most bold and breathtaking ways. A cable car takes you to the capital of Fira, a bustling cliff-top town awash with old cathedrals, enthralling museum collections and cosy tavernas. Venture to the coast for a swim in the deep blue waters that lap red and black pebbled beaches. And peel back layers of lava and history amongst excavated Akrotiri. Whether it’s by bicycle, ATV or on your own two feet, exploring this Cyclades isle never fails to impress.
Day 8 – Athens (Piraeus), Greece
Your cruise ends in Athens, where you can explore the ancient city or try the local dishes. Look for trovolia, a typical fresh cheese to savour with marinated olives. Enjoy the local wines, the most common white is floral and aromatic Moschofilero, while the red of choice is Xinomavro, an indigenous grape with a bold, complex flavour.
