7 Day Eclectic Aegean

With the Bosphorus Strait dividing two continents, Europe and Asia, this is one cruise that’s truly unique. You’ll set sail by private tender boat to glide over the jet blue waters of the Bosphorus so that you can take in the city and its iconic skyline from both angles. As you weave your way between traditional fishing boats and ferries, you’ll soon see the Orient and Occident emerging. Keep a lookout for the glamorous 19th century Dolmabahçe Palace and the former Ottoman palace of Çırağan, now a luxury hotel, on the European riverbank. And on the Asian side, the summer residence of the sultans, Beylerbeyi Palace, as well as the Anatolian Castle medieval fortress and magnificent Kanlica Villa all soon come into view. Then, back on dry land, you can stretch your legs with a stroll around the labyrinthine Spice Market. Try haggling for souvenirs, or simply browse the myriad of goods on offer.

Dig a bit deeper into the history and legacy behind three of Istanbul’s most fascinating sites on this half-day excursion. First up is the Mosque of Sultan Ahmed, or Blue Mosque, and one of the most characteristic sights in the city skyline. Its needle-like minarets are something to behold, and inside you’ll see the grave of Sultan Ahmed I who ordered the construction of the mosque. Next it’s over to the Hagia Sophia, first built as the Orthodox cathedral of Constantinople to later become an imperial mosque and now a museum; the interior and domed ceilings are as captivating as its history. Afterwards, the tour heads to the Cistern of Philoxenos, or the Sunken Palace, to visit this incredible subterranean reservoir. It features 336 marble columns towering 14 metres high that all add to its special atmosphere. At the end of the chamber you’ll be able to spot two column bases displaying the mythological Medusa head.

Prices

Adults: $91, Children: $68

Over the course of approximately nine hours, this tour will bring Istanbul’s rich picking of landmarks and legacies to life. Step into the Old City to the Hippodrome of Constantinople – a once popular meeting place to watch chariot racing – to see the Egyptian Obelisk, Serpent Column, Walled Obelisk and German Fountain. Then, you’ll pick up the pace and head to the Blue Mosque, the most beautiful in all the city, and the exquisite Hagia Sophia, symbol of Istanbul. After lunch in a local restaurant, you’ll spend the first part of the afternoon exploring the rooms, courtyards and collections in Topkapi Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and lavish residence of Ottoman sultans. To end the tour, you’ll have plenty of free time to get lost in amongst the maze of lanes and stalls of the Grand Bazaar. Try haggling for souvenirs, or simply browse the myriad of goods on offer.

Prices

Adults: $153, Children: $99

This full day tour encompasses two of the main sites near Canakkale – the ancient city of Troy and Gallipoli Peninsula Historical National Park. It all kicks off with a drive to the UNESCO-listed city of Troy, where wandering around the ruins, you’ll see the legends from Homer’s “Iliad” come to life before your eyes. The Trojan War and the tale of Helen are just one layer of the many stories this ancient city guards. Then, you’ll continue to the Gallipoli battlefields, starting at Anzac Cove where the Australian and New Zealand soldiers first landed. You’ll move on to the many gravesites and memorials, including Lone Pine Cemetery with its moving views over the landscape. Visit Plugge’s Plateau, where you can still see the trench lines by the path, then Beach Cemetery, Hell Spit, Shrapnel Valley, Brighton Beach and Quinn’s Post. There’s also a stop at the memorial grounds of 57 Regiment Cemetery for a moment’s pause, until the tour comes to a poignant close at Chunuk Bair Memorial.

Prices

Adults: $91, Children: $68

From legends to epic love stories, this full day trip to the ancient city of Troy and Assos has it all. Leaving the cruise ship at Canakkale, you’ll firstly drive to Troy, the UNESCO-listed city immortalised in Homer’s “Iliad”. Take a look around the ruins as your guide recounts the myths and myth-busting truths surrounding this exciting old city; scene of one of the greatest battles in Greek mythology, the Trojan War. After some free time, it’s back on the road to the Assos, where the ancient Temple of Athena immediately grabs your attention. Looking out over the island of Lesbos in the distance, you’ll learn all about the city’s links to Aristotle, St Paul and more. Explore the market place and city walls, then sit down for a three-course lunch at a typical restaurant in the ancient harbor of Assos. Afterwards, enjoy a panoramic drive around the old city of Canakkale before boarding the ship once again.

Prices

Adults: $117, Children: $92

An ancient city with an epic story to tell, both from Homer’s “Iliad” and the 19th century when it was unearthed by German archaeologist, Schliemann. His excavations convinced the world that Troy was more than just a legend, and today you can walk amongst the ruins that bore witness to one of the greatest battles in Greek mythology – the Trojan War – that’s even inspired a Hollywood movie of heroic proportions. During this half-day tour, your guide will recount gripping tales and legends that swirl around the ruins, including how it was demolished and rebuilt nine times. As you stroll around, the glittering waters of the Dardanelles and the Gallipoli hills also capture attention in the distance. Take a look at the modern version of the famous wooden horse, used by the Greeks to trick the Trojans, before returning to the cruise ship in the late afternoon.

Prices

Adults: $85, Children: $64

A place of unparalleled natural beauty with ethereal villages trickling down its forested slopes, Mt Pelion is the spectacular setting for this eight-hour excursion from Volos. Firstly, you’ll set off into the pine-clad hills to the villages of Milies and Visitsa to amble past old mansions known as ‘archondika’. Then, you’ll wind your way up to the village of Tsangarada, where four settlements are strung along the mountainside, characterised by cobbled piazzas, mansion houses, tree-shaded alleys and views of the Aegean Sea. There’s even a 1,000-year-old plane tree adding to its magic. From here, you’ll go to Damouchari, one of the filming locations for the movie ‘Mamma Mia!’. Recreate one of the dancing scenes, or enjoy a swim and some lunch in your free time. The route then takes you along the top of the mountain to Makrinitsa for a final coffee in the splendid surroundings of its historic square, complete with church, fountain and plane trees.

Prices

Adults: $91, Children: $68

Seeing really is believing when it comes to the monasteries of Meteora, where after a drive through the countryside from Volos, your eyes will be drawn to the sky as these giant rocks appear out of nowhere. This full day excursion takes you to Meteora to explore the unique geology and landscape of the area with its colossal stones that reach 400 meters in height. At their feet you’ll find the sleepy village of Kastraki, but look up and the UNESCO-listed monastic complex of Meteora is a true surprise. Their spiritual energy is soul-stirring, and out of 30 historical monasteries, six are still in use and open to the public, including the monasteries of Rousanou, Varlaam, Holy Trinity, St Stephen, St Nicholas Anapausas and Great Meteoron. Their exquisite frescoes are a sight to behold, and so are the panoramic views from the top.

Prices

Adults: $105, Children: $74

Mt Pelion – the mythical land of centaurs – is as beautiful as its fables. Known as the mountain where the gods celebrated weddings and beauty contests, it will appeal to all your senses. This half-day excursion features the traditions and culture of Volos and Pelion with a journey into the hills and to villages suspended in time. You’ll drive to one of the most delightful villages, Makrinitsa, located 700m above sea level, where you’ll leave the coach to wander around its narrow lanes flanked by old houses. Known as the ‘balcony of Mt Pelion’ it affords sweeping panoramas down to Volos and beyond. And each house is built to make the most of the splendid views of the gulf. At the main square, platia, you’ll be able to soak up its otherworldly charm surrounded by plane trees, a tiny church and trickling fountain. Then, make the most of some free time to stroll around the village more, visit the museum or simply sit back in the square with a freshly-brewed coffee in your hand.

Prices

Adults: $80, Children: $49

First you head up to Megalochori village, one of the most authentic and unspoiled villages of the island with its distinctive architecture and character.

We will continue on to the east, in the background, you will have settlements like Kamari and Monolithos, while you will pass through Fira, the small traditional villages of Firostefani and Imerovigli with delicate architecture and beauties, to eventually arrive at the settlement of Oia. During the entire route, to the west you will have before your eyes the lace-like caldera, the little islands of Thirasia, Palea and Nea Kameni and an unsurpassable panoramic view. In Oia you will have plenty of time to stroll through the marble-paved alleys, to gaze at the adorably cute shops, to take pictures, to become acquainted with the characteristic buildings, carved into the rocks and the unusual captains’ manors, the settlement Ammoudi at the foot of the caldera… After your curiosity has been sated of the area which is characterized as being of “exceptional natural beauty”, your return begins...

Welcome to a half-day tour of Plato’s source of inspiration for the legend of Atlantis, the Minoan Bronze Age settlement of Akrotiri. During our exploration we will discover ancient treasures exceptionally preserved by the same element which led to the destruction of the Akrotiri civilization - volcanic ash. Dating back to the 4th millennium BC, the archeological site of Akrotiri will simply amaze you with the complexity of the edifices and decorations unearthed here since 1967. Delicate art treasures, including vivid frescos, furniture and vessels, tell magnificent stories of the ancient life and society of the Minoan civilization. We will end our immersion in Santorini’s astounding history with free time in the town of Akrotiri, beautifully located close to the famous Red Beach and overlooking the southeastern side of the island.

Prices

Adults: $91, Children: $68

Our half day boat tour takes you on a unique journey around one of the most photographed landscapes in the world - the island of Santorini. This intimate boat tour will allow you to discover this incredibly romantic island from a unique perspective, getting up close and personal with Santorini’s coarse volcanic silhouette. We will pass by Palea and Nea Kameni, two uninhabited and wholly volcanic islands in the Santorini complex. These islands, made of black lava, present an astonishing landscape, violently moulded by the powerful volcanic eruption of circa 1600 BC which created Santorini’s current scenery. The famous Santorini volcano crater is found on Nea Kameni and a brief walk takes the curious visitor to the edge of the still active crater. The raw power, visible among the rugged landscape, is exceptionally impressive and will fill you with a rush of adrenaline as you peer into its seemingly bottomless darkness. We will end our tour of Santorini with a visit to Palea Kameni’s hot springs, where the healing waters can reach up to 35 degrees celsius. Here you will have a chance to swim to the springs.

Prices

Adults: $85, Children: $52

With never-ending rows of whitewashed houses, churches, boutiques and hidden lanes, Mykonos Town is a haven to explore. We’ll set off on foot around Chora, the historic heart, gradually weaving our way to Little Venice where you’ll spot colorful houses dripping into the bright blue sea and al fresco terraces buzzing with cocktail and coffee drinkers. Then, it’s over to the town’s most famous landmark – the Windmills – that stand tall by the sea, providing the most romantic spot to watch the sunset. Our next stop on the walking tour will be Panagia Paraportianí, a beauty of a Byzantine church dating back to 1425 and one of the most photographed on the island. Afterwards, it’s time to take your seat at the dinner table for a real Greek feast rounded off with a side order of some feet-stomping music and traditional island dancing.

Prices

Adults: $96, Children: $68

Savor the delights of Mykonos with a foodie tour around the island capital. You’ll see the city’s highlights and neighborhoods all while sampling the best food and drink that Mykonos Town has to offer. We’ll start it all with a caffeine kick at Café Barco where you’ll be served a traditional coffee and sweet treat, after which we’ll stroll past the famous windmills, through the narrow, cobbled lanes of Little Venice and the Three Mills to the one and only Paraportiani Church. Next, try some Greek peppers and olives washed down with some local raki before heading to Gioras bakery to eat their famous cheese and onion pie. We continue our food odyssey at Popolo where you’ll sample local bruschetta, and then it’s onto the pretty garden of Cine Manto to taste fresh Greek salad, beer and Mykonian sausage. And last but not least, you’ll have some fig cheesecake served with olive marmalade waiting for you at Il Forno di Gerasimo.

Prices

Adults: $91, Children: $68

This tour encompasses the best of Mykonos outside its main city. We will drive around the island to get a glimpse into its beaches such as Ornos (one of the most family-friendly on the island), St Anna (protected by two hills called “Aphrodite’s breasts”), and Kalafatis (a paradise for water sports and windsurfing). We will stop briefly at each of these natural splendors for photos. We will then leave the seashore and drive inland to Ano Mera, a village which remains one of the rare unspoiled parts of the island. Home to the Panagia Tourliani Monastery from the 16th century, the village unfolds around its impressive bell tower and marble fountain. Coming back to Chora we will go for a short stop to Panagia Paraportianí, the iconic 15th century Byzantine church. We will conclude our bus tour at the picturesque Little Venice -- the perfect spot for a cocktail on the sea.

Prices

Adults: $83, Children: $54

This jam-packed excursion promises all the highlights of Athens and its history in just half a day. You’ll set off by bus from the port into the center of Athens, where during the panoramic drive you’ll get to gaze up at the Temple of Olympian Zeus and pass by the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which sits in front of the Greek Parliament. Our first destination is the Panathenaic Stadium, where the first Olympic Games were held in 1896. Next, it’s on to the stylish ‘Trilogy of Athens’ – the University of Athens, National Library and the Academy of Athens – before you reach the Squares of Omonia and Syntagma in the heart of modern Athens. Here you’ll also get a glimpse of picturesque Plaka tucked beneath the Acropolis, and then it’s onwards to Propylaea where the Temple of Athena Nike lies. Last but not least, it’s time for the final highlight of the tour - the iconic Acropolis. You’ll join a guided exploration to see the mighty Parthenon, symbol of the city, closer than ever before and stand on ground that has witnessed centuries of history. From here, you’ll also admire the glorious Odeon of Herodes Atticus before you reach the final stop – the New Acropolis Museum – to uncover and marvel at more famous works from classical antiquity.

*Passengers departing from Piraeus, take the excursion, on the last day of their cruise, after disembarkation.

Prices

Adults: $108, Children: $80

This jam-packed excursion promises all the highlights of Athens and its history in just half a day. You’ll set off by bus from the port into the center of Athens, where during the panoramic drive you’ll get to gaze up at the Temple of Olympian Zeus and pass by the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which sits in front of the Greek Parliament. Our first destination is the Panathenaic Stadium, where the first Olympic Games were held in 1896. Next, it’s on to the stylish ‘Trilogy of Athens’ – the University of Athens, National Library and the Academy of Athens – before you reach the Squares of Omonia and Syntagma in the heart of modern Athens. Here you’ll also get a glimpse of picturesque Plaka tucked beneath the Acropolis, and then it’s onwards to Propylaea where the Temple of Athena Nike lies. Last but not least, it’s time for the final highlight of the tour - the iconic Acropolis. You’ll join a guided exploration to see the mighty Parthenon, symbol of the city, closer than ever before and stand on ground that has witnessed centuries of history. From here, you’ll also admire the glorious Odeon of Herodes Atticus before you reach the final stop – the New Acropolis Museum – to uncover and marvel at more famous works from classical antiquity.

*Passengers departing from Piraeus, take the excursion, on the last day of their cruise, after disembarkation.

Prices

Adults: $105, Children: $74

For an overview of Athens, look no further than this half-day tour to the Panathenaic Stadium and historic neighborhood of Plaka. You’ll see two of the main attractions in Athens whilst exploring at your own pace. Firstly, you’ll travel back through the centuries at the Panathenaic Stadium, originally built in circa 330BC for the Panathenaic Games. This 45,000-seat marble beauty is a sight for sore eyes with its never-ending expanse of bright white tiers. Afterwards, you’ll navigate the maze of cobbled alleys that make up Plaka, the oldest area in the city. Its streets are lined with neoclassical buildings, pavement-side tavernas churning out delicious food around the clock, and flashes of hot pink bougainvillea draped across historic walls – it’s magical! And to top it off, you’ll also pass by Syntagma Square, the Academy of Athens and the National Library, all while catching fantastic glimpses of the Acropolis above.

*Passengers departing from Piraeus, take the excursion, on the last day of their cruise, after disembarkation.

Prices

Adults: $83, Children: $54