Adriatic and Aegean Delights

On arrival in Athens, transfer to your ship. This evening, get to know your Cruise Director and fellow travellers at a Welcome Reception.

Syros is an island in the Aegean Sea, 78 miles (125 kilometres) southeast of Athens, and the administrative, commercial, intellectual and cultural centre of the Cyclades. Syros is 32 square miles (82.8 square kilometres) in area. Its largest towns are Ermoupoli, the capital of the island and Cyclades, Ano Syros and Vari. Although Syros belongs to the Cyclades islands, its architecture is more medieval than Cycladic. The beaches of Syros are especially inviting, and surrounded by many tourist facilities and accommodations.

Awake in Syros, located in the spectacular Cyclades. The day has been set aside for you to explore at your leisure. Perhaps take an optional tour of the island and discover an array of colour and architecture. This evening, join your fellow travellers for a Gala Welcome Dinner. 

Enhance Your Journey – Walking Tour of Syros

Indulge in a walking tour of Syros town. One of the smallest islands of the Cyclades with the highest population, Syros enchants all who visit with its kaleidoscope of modern and traditional Greek elements. Venture through Ermoupoli, perhaps the grandest of all Cycladic towns. With a much more localised feel than other locations, the town boasts an excellent example of local island life. Stop at the Holy Cathedral of the Dormition of the Virgin and witness El Greco’s painting ‘Dormition of the Virgin’ before continuing to see the first high school of modern Greece. Then, be mesmerised by the Orthodox Cathedral of Agios Nikolaos. Discover the Vaporia district and the haven of neoclassical mansions, an insight to the island’s wealthy history. Conclude your tour with a stroll to the first opera house in Greece, the Apollon Theatre and a visit to the town hall in the atmospheric Miaouli Square.

Arrive in the beautiful island of Amorgos, known for its ancient ruins and quaint villages. Set out on a guided tour, followed by an Insider Experience. Your ship will stay docked in port until late evening, so you may wish to disembark and enjoy dinner at your leisure at a local restaurant.

Insider Experience – Olive Oil Press

Visit a local olive oil press to learn about the production of this essential ingredient. Savour a tasting of the local produce and relish the unique flavour composition. 

Today takes you to the volcanic island of Nisyros, where you will enjoy free time to explore. In the port of Mandraki, you may like to wander through its whitewashed streets and visit the cliffside monastery of Panagia Spiliani or perhaps visit the archaeological museum. Alternatively, join an optional tour to the Polyvotis volcano.   

Later, continue to the island of Symi to discover an old-world glamour and neoclassical architecture, a legacy of Italian rule almost a century ago. With the afternoon at leisure, you may wish to join an optional guided tour. 

Enhance Your Journey – Nisyros Island Tour 

Join an optional tour to the landmark of Nisyros Volcano and walk in one of the three craters within the caldera: Polyvotis, Alexandros, and Stefano, located in the heart of the island. Marvel at the sheer vastness of the site and take in the ethereal landscape reminiscent of another planet. Gaze in awe at sulphur-streaked walls, bubbling mud pools, steaming vents and the vast sea beyond. Explore the village of Nikia, situated on the southern edge of the caldera and indulge in stunning views across the volcano and sparkling sea. Perhaps see the Church of Agios Ioannis Theologos and its striking bell tower or delve into the island’s geological history on a visit to the Volcanological Museum. Nikia’s main square of Porta has a beautiful pebble mosaic floor and is bordered by spectacular traditional architecture of the region. Travel on to Emporios, a village located on the volcano’s slope and enjoy more panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape, tranquil ambience and quaint stone houses. 

Enhance Your Journey – Symi Walking Tour 

Embark on a walking tour through the enchanting town of Symi. Arrive at the beautiful Gialos Harbour bordered by pastel-coloured houses. Mansions with neoclassical architecture dot the hills surrounding the port and are a prime example of Symi’s Italian rule centuries ago. Stroll past an ancient monastery and Customs House among other breathtaking sites.   

Whilst the busy resort town of Kusadasi offers much in the way of shopping and dining – not to mention a flourishing beach life scene, the real jewel here is Ephesus and the stunning ruined city that really take centre stage. With only 20% of the classical ruins having been excavated, this archaeological wonder has already gained the status as Europe’s most complete classical metropolis. And a metropolis it really is; built in the 10th century BC this UNESCO World Heritage site is nothing short of spectacular. Although regrettably very little remains of the Temple of Artemis (one of the seven wonders of the ancient world), the superb Library of Celsus’ façade is practically intact and it is one of life’s great joys to attend an evening performance in the illuminated ruins once all the tourists have left. The history of the city is fascinating and multi-layered and it is well worth reading up on this beforehand if a visit is planned. Another point of interest for historians would be the house of the Virgin Mary, located on the romantically named Mount Nightingale and just nine kilometres away from Ephesus proper. Legend has it that Mary (along with St. John) spent her final years here, secluded from the rest of the population, spreading Christianity. An edifying experience, even for non-believers. For the less historical minded amongst you, Kusadasi offers plenty in the way of activities. After a stroll through the town, jump in a taxi to Ladies’ Beach (men are allowed), sample a Turkish kebap on one of the many beachfront restaurants and enjoy the clement weather. If you do want to venture further afield, then the crystal clear beaches of Guzelcamli (or the Millipark), the cave of Zeus and the white scalloped natural pools at Pamukkale, known as Cleopatra’s pools, are definitely worth a visit.

This morning you will dock in Kuşadasi, located on Türkiye’s Anatolian coast.

Insider Experience – Visit Ephesus

Drive to the nearby ancient city of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved classical cities of the Eastern Mediterranean. Step back in time today as you immerse yourself in ancient Roman life and imagine the city’s former splendour. Broad streets are lined with impressive buildings, including the Library of Celsus, which was built in memory of Celsus Polemeanus, a Roman senator and reportedly a lover of great books. 

Although the fishing boats still go out in good weather, Mykonos largely makes its living from tourism these days. The summer crowds have turned one of the poorest islands in Greece into one of the richest. Old Mykonians complain that their young, who have inherited stores where their grandfathers once sold eggs or wine, get so much rent that they have lost ambition, and in summer sit around pool bars at night with their friends, and hang out in Athens in winter when island life is less scintillating. Put firmly on the map by Jackie O in the 1960s, Mykonos town—called Hora by the locals—remains the Saint-Tropez of the Greek islands. The scenery is memorable, with its whitewashed streets, Little Venice, the Kato Myli ridge of windmills, and Kastro, the town's medieval quarter. Its cubical two- or three-story houses and churches, with their red or blue doors and domes and wooden balconies, have been long celebrated as some of the best examples of classic Cycladic architecture. Luckily, the Greek Archaeological Service decided to preserve the town, even when the Mykonians would have preferred to rebuild, and so the Old Town has been impressively preserved. Pink oleander, scarlet hibiscus, and trailing green pepper trees form a contrast amid the dazzling whiteness, whose frequent renewal with whitewash is required by law. Any visitor who has the pleasure of getting lost in its narrow streets (made all the narrower by the many outdoor stone staircases, which maximize housing space in the crowded village) will appreciate how its confusing layout was designed to foil pirates—if it was designed at all. After Mykonos fell under Turkish rule in 1537, the Ottomans allowed the islanders to arm their vessels against pirates, which had a contradictory effect: many of them found that raiding other islands was more profitable than tilling arid land. At the height of Aegean piracy, Mykonos was the principal headquarters of the corsair fleets—the place where pirates met their fellows, found willing women, and filled out their crews. Eventually the illicit activity evolved into a legitimate and thriving trade network. Morning on Mykonos town's main quay is busy with deliveries, visitors for the Delos boats, lazy breakfasters, and street cleaners dealing with the previous night's mess. In late morning the cruise-boat people arrive, and the shops are all open. In early afternoon, shaded outdoor tavernas are full of diners eating salads (Mykonos's produce is mostly imported); music is absent or kept low. In mid- and late afternoon, the town feels sleepy, since so many people are at the beach, on excursions, or sleeping in their air-conditioned rooms; even some tourist shops close for siesta. By sunset, people have come back from the beach, having taken their showers and rested. At night, the atmosphere in Mykonos ramps up. The cruise-boat people are mostly gone, coughing three-wheelers make no deliveries in the narrow streets, and everyone is dressed sexy for summer and starting to shimmy with the scene. Many shops stay open past midnight, the restaurants fill up, and the bars and discos make ice cubes as fast as they can. Ready to dive in? Begin your tour of Mykonos town (Hora) by starting out at its heart: Mando Mavrogenous Square.

Land on the dazzling Greek isle of Mykonos, where you’ll have the day at leisure to explore. Perhaps join an optional walking tour through the main town of Chora. Your ship will stay docked in port until late evening, so you may wish to disembark and enjoy dinner at your leisure at a local restaurant.  

Enhance Your Journey – Walking Tour of Town and Island Tour   

Join an optional tour by coach through the main town of Chora, taking in the incredible views of inland Mykonos. Admire the old port and spot local fishermen in their traditional fishing boats. Enjoy panoramas of charming Cycladic architecture and famous windmills so often featured on postcards. Next stop is the village of Ano Mera. Prepare to be in awe of its alluring architecture, captivating public square and the historic Panagia Tourliani Monastery. Observe local life as you wander through a labyrinth of authentic bakeries, taverns and cafes. Then, spend some time at leisure at Kalafatis beach, a particularly stunning setting with a backdrop of the Aegean Sea. Venture back to the old port of Mykonos. Set off through a maze of bustling tiny lanes, soak in the whitewashed buildings with iconic blue shutters and see the majestic, blue-domed churches. 

Enhance Your Journey – Walking Tour of Mykonos 

Take part in an immersive guided walking tour through Mykonos’ main town. Wind your way through traditional laneways lined with iconic cubed architecture, charming blue shutters and bright domed churches. Discover the delightful old port, boasting authentic fishing boats and glittering turquoise water, reminiscent of postcards. Learn about local life and the secrets of the island’s rich history. There are plenty of photo opportunities with stops at Little Venice and the Church of Panagia Paraportiani. Relish free time to explore more or enjoy a drink at a local terrace bar before concluding your tour. 

Milos or Melos is a volcanic Greek island in the Aegean Sea, just north of the Sea of Crete. Milos is the southwesternmost island in the Cyclades group. The Venus de Milo and the Asclepius of Milos were both found on the island, as were a Poseidon and an archaic Apollo now in Athens.

Known for its most celebrated export, the iconic Venus de Milo, volcanic Milos arches around a central caldera and is ringed with dramatic coastal landscapes of colourful and surreal rock formations. Disembark your ship and enjoy a tour of the island which includes Plaka, the island’s capital, the beach of Sarakiniko and the small fishing village of Pollonia. With the afternoon at leisure, you may wish to enjoy a relaxing morning at one of the island’s most picturesque beaches, Paleochori. Relish free time to explore more or enjoy a drink at a local terrace bar before concluding your tour. This evening, join your fellow travellers for a Captain’s Farewell Dinner. 

On a tour of Athens, take in the city’s most popular attractions, including the Acropolis, the Parthenon and the historic neighbourhood of Plaka.

Early this morning, your ship will traverse the famous Corinth Canal, which is just 21.3 metres wide. Later, arrive in the Greek port of Itea and set off on an excursion to the sacred site of Delphi. In ancient times, Delphi was considered the centre of the known world. Explore the Sanctuary of Apollo and visit the partially reconstructed Treasury of the Athenians. You’ll also visit the impressive museum, which houses one of the greatest collections of archaeological treasures. This evening, join your fellow travellers for a Gala Welcome Dinner.

Located right in the heel of the Italian boot, Otranto’s scenic landscape often plays the protagonist in displaying the beauty of Puglia, Italy’s easternmost region. Facing the Adriatic sea, the seducing weather and pristine waters have made it a popular destination where on a clear day, wanderers can see the coast of Albania. Like much of Italy, the city boasts a rich and mixed history. Once a Greek and Roman port, it was later occupied by the Byzantines, the Normans and the Spanish before the Ottoman invaded in during their Jihad to conquer Europe. Remains of forts are still visible and are a living testimonial of the town’s rich history along with Otranto’s cathedral, which still encloses today the relics of martyrs who refused to convert to Islam.

This morning, relax on board with fellow passengers as your vessel sails towards Italy. After lunch, disembark in the picturesque port town of Otranto, located in Italy’s Puglia region. The afternoon is at your leisure to explore. Perhaps enjoy an optional guided city tour of Otranto or an optional tour to the historic town of Lecce.

Enhance Your Journey – Otranto City Tour Delve into Otranto, a picturesque seaside town reminiscent of Greece. This stunning location offers a unique blend of east and west due to its rich history of Byzantine, Norman, Aragonese and Ottoman influences. Explore its medieval charm through the 15th-century castle, rebuilt after Ottoman raids, and the 12th-century Cathedral, famous for its floor mosaic that harmoniously represents symbols from Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Stroll through the labyrinth of streets and uncover the captivating beauty and layered history of this vibrant, historical gem.

Enhance Your Journey – Tour of Lecce Head out on an optional tour of Lecce, often referred to as the ‘Florence of the South’ for its elegance and harmonious architectural style. Learn about how the town expanded in the 17th century with grand churches and spectacular palazzi, all showcasing the best of baroque architecture. Admire the beautiful limestone buildings adorned with intricate features and visit the two main churches of the city, the Duomo and Santa Croce Basilica.

Backed by imposing mountains, tiny Kotor lies hidden from the open sea, tucked into the deepest channel of the Bokor Kotorska (Kotor Bay), which is Europe's most southerly fjord. To many, this town is more charming than its sister UNESCO World Heritage Site, Dubrovnik, retaining more authenticity, but with fewer tourists and spared the war damage and subsequent rebuilding which has given Dubrovnik something of a Disney feel.Kotor's medieval Stari Grad (Old Town) is enclosed within well-preserved defensive walls built between the 9th and 18th centuries and is presided over by a proud hilltop fortress. Within the walls, a labyrinth of winding cobbled streets leads through a series of splendid paved piazzas, rimmed by centuries-old stone buildings. The squares are now haunted by strains from buskers but although many now house trendy cafés and chic boutiques, directions are still given medieval-style by reference to the town’s landmark churches.In the Middle Ages, as Serbia's chief port, Kotor was an important economic and cultural center with its own highly regarded schools of stonemasonry and iconography. From 1391 to 1420 it was an independent city-republic and later, it spent periods under Venetian, Austrian, and French rule, though it was undoubtedly the Venetians who left the strongest impression on the city's architecture. Since the breakup of Yugoslavia, some 70% of the stone buildings in the romantic Old Town have been snapped up by foreigners, mostly Brits and Russians. Porto Montenegro, a new marina designed to accommodate some of the world’s largest super yachts, opened in nearby Tivat in 2011, and along the bay are other charming seaside villages, all with better views of the bay than the vista from Kotor itself where the waterside is congested with cruise ships and yachts. Try sleepy Muo or the settlement of Prčanj in one direction around the bay, or Perast and the Roman mosaics of Risan in the other direction.

Cruise the stunning fjord of Kotor Bay in Montenegro. Upon arrival in Kotor, enjoy time at leisure to explore. Those feeling energetic may like to climb the 1,350 steps to the top of the town’s fortifications for stunning views, or alternatively, join an optional tour.

Enhance Your Journey — Kotor Walking Tour Head out on a guided walking tour through the enchanting Old Town of Kotor. Marvel at the towering St. Tryphon Cathedral as you learn about one of the best-preserved buildings in the town, dating back to the 12th century. Delve into the cathedral’s history and its significance to the town. Next, embark on a short drive to the Cable Car station where you’ll ascend to the summit of Lovćen Mountain. Here, spend time at leisure to soak in exceptional views over the Bay of Kotor and Lovćen National Park.

Enhance Your Journey — Montenegro Highlights Take in awe-inspiring views of the Budva Riviera as you travel towards Cetinje, the former royal capital of Montenegro. In Cetinje, head to the Museum of King Nikola and learn about Montenegro’s cultural and historical heritage. Make your way towards Lovćen Mountain and stop at the village of Njegusi for an immersive cultural experience, where you’ll learn about the production process of smoked ham. Then, savour a meal of smoked ham and local cheese with honey and wine at an authentic restaurant. Continue driving along the route that the Irish playwright Bernard Shaw followed at the beginning of the twentieth century to Montenegro. On returning to Kotor, explore the town at your leisure.

Nothing can prepare you for your first sight of Dubrovnik. Lying 216 km (135 miles) southeast of Split and commanding a jaw-dropping coastal location, it is one of the world's most beautiful fortified cities. Its massive stone ramparts and fortress towers curve around a tiny harbor, enclosing graduated ridges of sun-bleached orange-tiled roofs, copper domes, and elegant bell towers. Your imagination will run wild picturing what it looked like seven centuries ago when the walls were built, without any suburbs or highways around it, just this magnificent stone city rising out of the sea.In the 7th century AD, residents of the Roman city Epidaurum (now Cavtat) fled the Avars and Slavs of the north and founded a new settlement on a small rocky island, which they named Laus, and later Ragusa. On the mainland hillside opposite the island, the Slav settlement called Dubrovnik grew up. In the 12th century the narrow channel separating the two settlements was filled in (now the main street through the Old Town, called Stradun), and Ragusa and Dubrovnik became one. The city was surrounded by defensive walls during the 13th century, and these were reinforced with towers and bastions in the late 15th century.From 1358 to 1808 the city thrived as a powerful and remarkably sophisticated independent republic, reaching its golden age during the 16th century. In 1667 many of its splendid Gothic and Renaissance buildings were destroyed by an earthquake. The defensive walls survived the disaster, and the city was rebuilt in baroque style.Dubrovnik lost its independence to Napoléon in 1808, and in 1815 passed to Austria-Hungary. During the 20th century, as part of Yugoslavia, the city became a popular tourist destination, and in 1979 it was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During the war for independence, it came under heavy siege. Thanks to careful restoration, few traces of damage remain; however, there are maps inside the Pile and Ploče Gates illustrating the points around the city where damage was done. It’s only when you experience Dubrovnik yourself that you can understand what a treasure the world nearly lost

This morning, your ship will arrive in Dubrovnik. Learn about the city’s walls on a guided tour, then enjoy a free afternoon to explore at your leisure. Your ship will stay docked in port until late evening, so you may wish to disembark and enjoy dinner at your leisure at a local restaurant. 

Enjoy the morning at leisure in Mljet, then set sail for Korčula, the birthplace of Marco Polo. Enjoy time at leisure to explore, or perhaps join an optional tour. Choose to take a walking tour of Korčula’s Old Town and indulge in a wine tasting in Lumbarda, or set off on an in-depth exploration of the island.

Enhance Your Journey — Historic Korčula and Wine tasting Begin your walking tour of Korčula’s spectacular Old Town from the pier. Discover the stunning architecture and well-orchestrated urban planning. The streets were arranged to take advantage of the natural wind system, resulting in optimal airflow throughout the town. Visit the Cathedral of St. Mark, a fine example of the town’s stone artistry, and the birthplace of Marco Polo. Next, travel to the rural village of Lumbarda for a winery visit. Learn how a local family grew their wine production from a small winery to a larger scale business with a completely automatic system. Enjoy hearing about the history and sampling some of their vintages.

Enhance Your Journey — Korčula in Depth Traverse the island of Korčula and indulge in idyllic views of dense forest. On this tour, visit the Zlokic Olive Oil Production. Since 1995, the family-run establishment has been one of the leading olive oil producers on the island. See the variety of ancient tools used in the olive oil making process such as a 15th-century wooden olive press and an 18th-century hydraulic compression system. Then, visit Toreta Winery in Smokvica for a wine tasting. Explore this family-run boutique winery and learn about the indigenous grape varieties from which the wine is made.

Today your ship will dock in the town of Šibenik, where you’ll disembark for a special experience. This evening, join your fellow travellers for a Captain’s Farewell Dinner.

Insider Experience – Krka National Park Head to beautiful Krka National Park to explore its dramatic waterfalls. The most famous is Skradinski Buk, a large natural pool with high waterfalls at one end and countless cascades at the other, as the rushing river forces its way through a barrier of tiny islets. Take a walk along wooden jetties and bridges to admire the falls, as well as the unique flora and fauna.

Venice is a city unlike any other. No matter how often you've seen it in photos and films, the real thing is more dreamlike than you could imagine. With canals where streets should be, water shimmers everywhere. The fabulous palaces and churches reflect centuries of history in what was a wealthy trading center between Europe and the Orient. Getting lost in the narrow alleyways is a quintessential part of exploring Venice, but at some point you'll almost surely end up in Piazza San Marco, where tourists and locals congregate for a coffee or an aperitif.

This morning after breakfast, disembark your ship for the final time and transfer to the airport for your onward flight.