Discover the magnificent Greek Islands and Turkey onboard with this four day cruise. Witness the archaeological wonders of Ancient Ephesus. Explore Knossos, once the capital city of the prehistoric Minoan civilisation. Marvel at the Acropolis of Lindos and wander through the Old Medieval city of Rhodes. Relax over a coffee in Fira Town, the capital of Santorini, with its superb view over the Caldera. Witness the Book of Revelations, written by John the Divine in Patmos, and shop to your heart's content on the most cosmopolitan Greek island of them all, Mykonos. 

Mon

Piraeus (Athens), Greece

 

11:00

 

Mykonos, Greece *

18:00

23:00

Tues

Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey

07:00

12:00

 

Patmos, Greece*

16:00

21:00

Wed

Rhodes, Greece

07:00

18:00

Thurs 

Heraklion (Crete), Greece

07:00

11:30

 

Santorini, Greece *

16:30

 21:00 

Fri

Piraeus (Athens), Greece

07:00

 

March      

24, 31

07, 14, 21, 28

05, 12, 19, 26

02, 09, 16, 23, 30

07, 14, 21, 28

04, 11, 18, 25

01, 08, 15, 22, 29

06, 13, 20, 27

03

March      

25

01, 08, 15, 22, 29

06, 13, 20, 27

03, 10, 17, 24

01, 08, 15, 22, 29

05, 12, 19, 26

02, 09, 16, 23, 30

07, 14, 21, 28

04

From: Mar 28th
To: Apr 28th (incl.)
From: Oct 20
To: Nov 07th (incl.)

 

From: May 2nd
To: Sep 1st (incl.)

 

From: Sept 5th
To: Oct 17th (incl.)

$ 1620

 

$ 1880

 

$ 2000

$ 1370

 

$ 1580

 

$ 1700

$ 1120

 

$ 1280

 

$ 1360

$ 1060

 

$ 1220

 

$ 1270

$ 880

 

$ 1020

 

$ 1100

$ 845

 

$ 980

 

$ 1060

$ 800

 

$ 925

 

$ 990

$ 770

 

$ 895

 

$ 960

$ 740

 

$ 860

 

$ 920

$ 680

 

$ 790

 

$ 840

$ 550

 

$ 640

 

$ 680

$ 300

 

$ 300

 

$ 300

$ 90

 

$ 90

 

$ 90

 

Mykonos combines the cosmopolitan and sophisticated lifestyle with a simple yet charming life of this Cycladic Island. Take a stroll through the maze of narrow streets, marvel at the hundreds of tiny chapels and the whitewashed houses with their flower-filled balconies. Take a walk up to the famous windmills or just relax on the waterfront, enjoy the sunset, accompanied by a refreshing drink or traditional ouzo!

 

A picturesque town on the coast with many opportunities for Flea Market shopping! Nearby, lies the Ancient city of Ephesus, founded by the Athenians, famous in antiquity for its Temple of Diana - one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. A tour to Ephesus will allow you to discover a treasure of Greek, Hellenistic and Roman monuments which witness the past power and prosperity of this city. View the Forum, Odeon, Library of Celsus, the Thermal Baths of Scolastika and the magnificent Greek Amphitheatre, still eminent for its remarkable acoustics, where performances of ancient Greek Drama are still organized.

 

Very often, Patmos is called the Jerusalem of the Aegean Sea. It is the sacred island where St John the Divine, whilst in exile, wrote the book of Revelations, which constitutes the last part of the New Testament. Built 900 years ago, the Monastery of St John is an impressive structure with outstanding interior frescoes. The museum inside also exhibits priceless ecclesiastical treasures. Visit the Grotto where St John lived and actually wrote the Book of Revelations.

 

A mix of modern and medieval, Rhodes fascinates and impresses each visitor. Νot to be missed is Lindos, the most important of the three great cities of ancient times. Climb to the top of the ancient Acropolis of Lindos with its breathtaking views covering the great expanse of the Aegean Sea and St Paul's Bay below. Wander through the Medieval city of Rhodes, view the palace of the Knights and walk down the famous Chevaliers Road. Walking along its cobbled streets one is reminded of iron-armored horse’s hooves clapping, and steel swords clashing and clanging.

 

Heraklion is the most important town and commercial port of Crete. The well-known archaeological site of Knossos is situated only 3miles away from the town's centre and is believed to be the largest and most suggestive Minoan site ever discovered in Crete. The Palace of Knossos was not only the residence of the ruling house but also an administrative and religious centre for the whole region. The Archaeological Museum of Heraklion exhibits a fine display of Minoan culture discovered during the excavations of Knossos.

 

Santorini is a unique island, considered to be the lost continent of Atlantis. Marvel at the whitewashed village of Fira, capital of the island with its narrow and picturesque streets, perched on the Caldera rim. Enjoy one of the most beautiful sunsets in the world, whilst relaxing over a coffee and gazing out to sea. Visiting Oia is also a must, an inspiration to all artists with numerous art galleries and spectacular views.  Access to Fira is an amazing cable car ride or for the more daring, by donkey.

Ancient Ephesus

 

KUS-A

 

Euro 50

 

Euro 25

House of Virgin Mary and Ephesus

 

KUS-B

 

Euro 56

 

Euro 28

Traditional Turkish Baths *

 

KUS-C

 

Euro 35

 

Euro 35

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

St John Monastery and Grotto of Revelations

 

PAT-A

 

Euro 45

 

Euro 23

Patmos Scenic Tour

 

PAT-B

 

Euro 30

 

Euro 20

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rhodes and Acropolis of Lindos

 

RHO-A

 

Euro 46

 

Euro 23

Rhodes Old Town and Filerimos

 

RHO-C

 

Euro 45

 

Euro 23

Rhodes and Acropolis of Lindos with Lunch**

 

RHO-B

 

Euro 72

 

Euro 36

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Palace of Knossos

 

HER-A

 

Euro 55

 

Euro 28

CretAquarium

 

HER-D

 

Euro 48

 

Euro 30

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oia Village and Fira Town

 

SAN-B

 

Euro 47

 

Euro 24

The Volcanic Tour and the Hot Springs *

 

SAN-C

 

Euro 45

 

Euro 23

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shore
Excursion Descriptions 

Ancient Ephesus

KUS-A

 3 h

Air-Conditioned Motorcoach / Foot

 

Depart the thriving town of Kusadasi and drive along the coast and through the flourishing countryside in order to reach Ephessos, famous in antiquity for its Temple of Diana - one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World - and later the home of St. John. As you arrive at Ephessos, disembark your motorcoach and enter the ancient site through the Magnesian Gate. Continue on, following your guide as you marvel at the innumerable monuments such as the Forum, the Odeon, the Library of Celsus, the Thermal Baths of Scolastika and the Great Theatre, built in the Greek era and reconstructed in the Roman period, which is still eminent for its remarkable acoustics. Observe the symbols all around and marvel at the fact that one is still able to read the inscriptions in the ancient Greek language. As your guided tour comes to an end, walk back to your motorcoach along the Arcadian Way, where once Mark Antony and Cleopatra rode in procession. Driving back to Kusadasi, on a hill above Selcuk, just outside Ephessos, view the Basilica of St. John, which was erected, over his grave in the 6th Century AD by the Emperor Justinian. And just downhill, lies the site of the famous Temple of Diana, today in ruins. Before returning to the ship, enjoy free time in Kusadasi to shop for every conceiveable item, such as carpets, jewellery, local souvenirs, leather goods and Turkish delights.

 

Take Note!
Due to extensive walking, comfortable and non-slip shoes are recommended.

House of Virgin Mary and Ephesus

KUS-B

31/2 h

Air-Conditioned Motorcoach / Foot

 

Depart the thriving town of Kusadasi and drive along the highway in order to reach Mt Koressos. Situated in a small valley, it is here where you will visit the humble chapel, which lies on the site of the little house where The Virgin Mary is believed to have spent her last days. Despite the many controversies, the Christian World still favours this belief and the site has been officially sanctioned by the Vatican, for pilgrimage. Continue on to Ancient Ephessos and accompanied by your Turkish guide, walk through the Magnesian Gate, which is the entrance to the ancient city of Ephessos. Your guided walking tour will take you through one of the most magnificent excavations in the world. See the Odeon (concert hall), the Fountain of Trajan, the steam-heated Baths of Scolastika, the Temple of Hadrian and the Latrians, the Library of Celsus and The Great Theatre, where St. Paul preached, which is the largest theatre in antiquity having a capacity of 24,000 people. Walk back to your motorcoach along the Arcadian Way, where Mark Anthony and Cleopatra once rode in procession. While driving back to Kusadasi and just outside Ephessos, view the Basilica of St. John, which was erected over his grave in the 6th Century AD by the Emperor Justinian. And just downhill, lies the site of the famous Temple of Diana, today in ruins. Before returning to the ship, enjoy free time in Kusadasi to shop for every conceiveable item, such as carpets, jewellery, local souvenirs, leather goods and Turkish delights.

 

Take Note!
Due to extensive walking, comfortable and non-slip shoes are recommended. 

Traditional Turkish Baths *

KUS-C

3 h

Air-Conditioned Motorcoach
Minimum Participation: 20 persons

 

One thing not to miss out on whilst visiting Turkey, is a visit to a local Turkish Bath, otherwise known as a “hamam”. Like the harem, this Roman and Byzantine tradition was adopted and then perfected by the Selcuk Turks. It was not merely a place where believers could fulfill the Islamic precept of cleanliness, but was also a place where one could mingle, socialize and gossip! The Turkish Bath that you will visit today is one of the newest Turkish baths in Kusadasi, located only 4km outside of the center of Kusadasi. Upon arrival, you will be taken into the dressing room where you will be cloaked with a “pestamal”, a colourful checked wrap as well as “takunya” wooden clogs. From here, you will be taken to the “Gobek Tasi”, a large round stone which graces the center of the hararet (baths), where you will warm up for approximately 15 minutes. Afterwards, enjoy a sauna, followed by a rubbing and then a massage with foam before being taken to a hot steamed bath in order to wash yourself down. After this amazing experience, you will gather in the “saloon” where you will be given a new “pestamal” accompanied by a glass of hot apple tea. Before returning to the ship, enjoy free time in Kusadasi to shop for every conceiveable item, such as carpets, jewellery, local souvenirs, leather goods and Turkish delights.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

St John Monastery and Grotto of Revelations

PAT-A

 2 h

Air-Conditioned Motorcoach / Foot

 

Depart the port of Scala by motorcoach and enjoy a short drive up to the Monastery of St. John, which has been magnificently built within the walls of a strong fortification. As you follow your guide and walk uphill towards the entrance of the Monastery, marvel at this impressive structure, which was built 900 years ago. View the courtyard, the Monks’ dining room and the old bakery before visiting the main church with its outstanding frescoes and interior decoration. Your next point of interest is the beautiful but small museum which houses priceless ecclesiastical treasures such as books and manuscripts, mosaics, icons, splendid medieval textiles and vestments as well as jewellery. At the end of your visit, return to your motorcoach and continue on to the nearby Grotto of the Apocalypse, where above stands the church of the Apocalypse, a sub-unit of the main Monastery. Take care as you walk down the steps to visit the Grotto! Once inside, see the silver niches in the wall, that mark the pillow and ledge used as a desk by the author of the Book of Revelations as well as the three-fold crack, made by the Voice of God, emphasizing the honour of the Trinity. After this splendid glory, return to the port and the ship.

 

Take Note!
Bare shoulders & shorts are not permitted in the Monastery, please consult the Pursers’ Office for the correct dress code. Passengers that have difficulty in walking are advised that a strenuous uphill climb is involved to reach the Monastery.

Patmos Scenic Tour

PAT-B

21/2 h

Air-Conditioned Motorcoach / Foot

 

For those of you wishing to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery that Patmos has to offer, then this tour is designed especially for you. Depart the charming little port of Scala by motorcoach and accompanied by your guide, you will first enjoy a visit to the Grotto of the Apocalypse. Take care as you walk down the steps to visit the Grotto! Once inside, see the silver niches in the wall, that mark the pillow and ledge used as a desk by the author of the Book of Revelations as well as the three-fold crack, made by the Voice of God, emphasizing the honour of the Trinity. After this visit, you will then make your way to the heart of Patmos, Chora, a unique village with white houses, built in the typical Aegean style. Here you will have a short photo stop, marvelling at the beautiful panoramic views offered. Don’t forget your camera! Your drive will then take you south of the island, passing by the idyllic fishing village of Grikos, then onto the northern side of the island, to the rural village of Kampos. Upon arrival, depart your motorcoach and make your way to the central square, where you will be offered a light refreshment accompanied by a traditional local sweet. Afterwards, your motorcoach will take you back to the port.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rhodes and Acropolis of Lindos

RHO-A

 41/2 h

Air-Conditioned Motorcoach / Foot

 

Driving along the picturesque southeastern coastline, scattered with whitewashed villages, arrive at Lindos, the most important of the three great cities of ancient times. Marvel at this entire city, guarded by Medieval walls which were constructed by the Knights of St. John in the 14th Century. Within, stands the ancient Acropolis of Lindos, on the brink of a precipice 400 feet above the sea. From the Acropolis, set your sights on the breathtaking views, which cover the great expanse of the Aegean Sea and St. Paul’s Bay, where the Apostle cast anchor during his historic voyage to Ephessos. Follow your guide uphill and reach the Great Staircase which leads from the Hellenistic portico to the Acropolis and the Temple of Athena. For those that wish to make their way up by mule, a fee must be paid to the local muleteer. After your guided tour, enjoy free time to discover this lovely town at your own pace before meeting backup with your guide at the stated time and place. Return to Rhodes and enjoy a panoramic drive through the new part of the city, then on to Mount Smith, where you will view the ruins of ancient Rhodes, the Temple of Apollo and Diagoras Stadium. From here, your motorcoach will drop you off at Porte d’Amboise where you will commence your guided walking tour through the Medieval city of Rhodes. As you follow your guide, make your way through the northern part where once lived the knights and their attendants. View the Palace of the Knights and continue your walk down Chevaliers Road, meeting back up with your motorcoach at the Marine Gate to return directly to the ship.

 

Take Note!
A strenuous uphill climb is involved to reach the Acropolis – comfortable & non-slip shoes are recommended. A short stop is foreseen at a ceramic workshop to see how the traditional world famous Rhodian ceramics are made.

Rhodes Old Town and Filerimos

RHO-C

 4 h

Air-Conditioned Motorcoach / Foot

 

Depart the port of Rhodes and enjoy a short drive to the Ancient Acropolis of Rhodes, situated high on the summit of Monte Smith Hill. Here, marvel at the remnants of the Temple of Apollo and the restored edifices of the Ancient Stadium and Odium, which stand dominating the modern city of Rhodes. Continue on and make your way to the Old Medieval Town surrounded by high walls and deep moats. Leave your motorcoach at Porte d’Amboise and accompanied by your guide, commence your walking tour. As you walk through the narrow cobbled streets, note the Byzantine style churches, inns, hospitals and Turkish mosques, all of which co-exist in the most traditional Greek setting touched little by the hectic modern way of life. Enjoy a visit to the Grand Masters Palace, which was restored during the Italian period of the island and today houses a superb collection of original mosaics from Kos island dating from the Hellenistic to early Byzantine period. After your visit, your motorcoach will take you to Filermos, once the citadel of the ancient town of Ialysos. Here you will discover the restored monastery of Filerimos, the underground Chapel of Agios Georgios and the third century Temple of Athena and Zeus Polias. The Chapel is covered with 15th-century frescoes, some featuring major events in the life of Jesus. The site also includes the Doric Fountain, a 4th century classical fountain fronted by a row of Doric columns, which was accidentally discovered in 1926. As you visit comes to an end, you will be taken directly back to the port.

 

Take Note!
A short stop is foreseen at a ceramic workshop to see how the traditional and world famous Rhodian ceramics are made. The order of sites visited may change in order to avoid overcrowding of motorcoaches and tourists.

Rhodes and Acropolis of Lindos with Lunch**

RHO-B

 8 h

Air-Conditioned Motorcoach / Foot
Minimum Participation: 35 persons

 

Enjoy a relaxing drive along the southeastern coastline as you make your way to Lindos, the most important of the three great cities of ancient times. On arrival, follow your guide uphill to explore the Acropolis of Lindos, which overlooks the Aegean Sea and St Paul’s Bay. Marvel at the breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea and St. Paul’s Bay. After your guided tour, enjoy free time to discover this lovely town at your own pace before meeting backup with your guide at the stated time and place. From here, make your way to Stegna Beach, a secluded beach only a short distance away, where you will be given the opportunity to enjoy a swim in the crystal clear waters of the Aegean before sitting down to lunch at a beachfront restaurant. During your buffet lunch, be entertained by Greek music and folk dancers. After lunch, return to Rhodes and be dropped off at Porte d’Amboise where you will commence your guided walking tour through the Medieval city of Rhodes. As you follow your guide, make your way through the northern part where once lived the knights and their attendants. View the Palace of the Knights and continue your walk down Chevaliers Road, meeting back up with your motorcoach at the Marine Gate to return directly to the ship.

 

Take Note!
A short stop is foreseen at a ceramic workshop to see how the traditional and world famous Rhodian ceramics are made. The order of sites visited may change in order to avoid overcrowding of motorcoaches and tourists. Umbrellas and sun-beds will be available on the beach for use. Changing facilities, rest rooms and showers are located in the restaurant and on the waterfront. This shore excursion will ONLY be operated from the month of May until October and is for prepaid groups only.

 

 

 

 

 

 

For a detailed description of Excursions in Heraklion (Crete) and Santorini, please consult our 3-day Golden Splendor Ctuise