Sailing The Greek Islands

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.

This morning, we arrive at one of Greece’s most renowned islands. The island of Mykonos, with its iconic whitewashed buildings and charming cobblestone lanes, has been a crossroads of cultures for centuries. Renowned for their hospitality, the people of Mykonos excel at making visitors feel at home amid the island’s historical treasures and picturesque landscapes. From ancient ruins to traditional windmills, Mykonos offers a captivating glimpse into a storied past. The local cuisine, festivals and vibrant arts scene reflect a deep cultural heritage, making Mykonos a unique and enriching destination. While recent years have boosted its reputation for vibrant nightlife, bustling beaches, and world-famous beach clubs, there is much more to discover beyond the surface of this famed island. Delve deeper, and you will find a community that embraces tradition, a fact that truly shines when you engage with the locals. Take the time to chat with them, and you will find that the true wealth of Mykonos lies in its people. Spending time at one of Mykonos’s famous beaches is a popular way to enjoy your day. If this is your preference, we recommend taking a taxi from the port to your chosen beach. Many of Mykonos’ beaches are lined with restaurants, clubs, and hotels, which provide rows of recliners on the section of the beach adjacent to their property. These establishments often offer food and beverages to their beachfront clients and charge a fee for using their facilities. Therefore, be prepared to pay when visiting many of Mykonos’ beaches. Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences. Option 1 – Morning experience: Iconic Mykonos Explore some of Mykonos’ most stunning locations this morning on this locally guided tour. Witness local fishermen with their “kaikis” (traditional fishing boats), admire the quaint private chapels, and marvel at the charming Cycladic architecture. Your first destination is Ano Mera, a quintessential Cycladic village that enchants visitors with its beauty. At its heart lies the historic Panagia Tourliani Monastery, a cultural and spiritual landmark. Ano Mera serves as a gateway to renowned beaches like Elia and Kalafatis. The village’s public square is encircled by a labyrinth of interconnected lanes, where traditional bakeries, cafes, and taverns offer an authentic taste of local life. Next, you will visit Kalafatis Beach, where you can enjoy free time to soak in the stunning blue waters of the Aegean Sea. The tour continues with a walking tour of Mykonos Town, also known as Chora. This mesmerising town is a maze of narrow streets, characterised by brilliant white buildings adorned with vibrant blue accents. The bustling alleyways are filled with chic boutiques, quaint cafes, and lively tavernas, offering a diverse array of experiences. The iconic windmills, once used to mill grain and a symbol of the island’s agricultural past, stand proudly overlooking the Aegean Sea. The enchanting waterfront area of ‘Little Venice’ blends historical charm and contemporary vibe. Option 2 – Morning experience: Mythical Delos More than any island in the Cyclades archipelago, Delos holds immense significance in Greek mythology and history. Revered as the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, this ancient land was a paramount religious and cultural centre. Delos thrived from around 900 BC to AD 100, evolving from a sacred shrine to a bustling commercial hub. However, its decline began after repeated attacks by pirates in the 1st century BC and the eventual shift of trade routes, leading to its abandonment. Today, Delos is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting some of the most extensive excavations in the Mediterranean, with ongoing archaeological work still taking place. Located fourteen kilometres off the coast of Mykonos, a thirty-minute boat ride transports us to this historical treasure. We immerse ourselves in the remnants of its ancient civilization, strolling through the sacred Agora and along the iconic Terrace of the Lions, while our guide will bring this ancient city to life. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply enjoy a good story, Delos promises a mesmerising experience unlike any other. Upon returning to Mykonos, the tour continues with a walking tour of Mykonos Town, where we explore the Matoyiannia area and visit the famous windmills before returning to our ship. As we say goodbye to Mykonos, we enjoy a Farewell dinner onboard while heading towards the Greek mainland. With everything we've experienced, it really does feel like 'It’s all Greek to me.'

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.

Kuşadası, Turkey's beloved seaside town, draws visitors with its vibrant bazaars, waterfront cafes, and nearby beaches. This historic settlement, with roots in the Leleges and Carian civilizations, is close to the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. In the Ottoman era, Kuşadası thrived as a key port city, highlighted by the impressive Kuşadası Castle, or Pigeon Island, built to defend against pirates. The 17th-century Öküz Mehmed Pasha Caravanserai, originally for traders and their animals, now operates as a hotel and marketplace. A day in Kuşadası offers a delightful mix of historical significance, Ottoman architecture, and lively shopping. Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences. Option 1 – Half-day experience: The Very Greek City of Ephesus Join a guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ephesus this morning with a traditional Turkish lunch after your visit, before returning to the ship mid- afternoon. Step into history with our locally guided tour of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world. Originally a Greek settlement, Ephesus flourished under Roman rule, with the Emperor Hadrian dedicating a temple to himself, and the Emperor Trajan adding aqueducts and roads. Sadly, the city’s importance declined due to invasions, and the silting of its harbour, which hindered trade, with it eventually being left in ruins. This guided tour offers a fascinating insight into the lives of those who once thrived here, as we wander among the remarkable ruins of this ancient metropolis. Hosted by our expert guide, we stroll the marble-paved streets of Ephesus, stepping back in time amid the city’s well-preserved ruins. Hear voices from long ago at the Odeon, a small theatre used for political meetings and concerts, and the Prytaneion, where sacred fires honoured the goddess Hestia. Visit the iconic Library of Celsus, once home to thousands of scrolls and the tomb of Roman senator Celsus. Its intricately carved columns and statues bring it to life. Explore the Great Theatre, which seated 25,000 cheering spectators for gladiatorial contests and performances. Discover the Temple of Hadrian, dedicated to Emperor Hadrian, adorned with detailed reliefs and sculptures. Finally, stroll through the agora, the commercial and political heart of Ephesus, where merchants traded goods, and citizens haggled over bargains and traded gossip, bringing to life the vibrant community of this ancient metropolis. Option 2 – Full-day experience: Explore the Village of Şirince and Join a Hands-on Turkish Cooking Class. Leaving the coast behind, we head inland to discover the rich flavours and traditions of Turkish cuisine while immersing ourselves in the rural lifestyle of the village of Şirince. Join a cooking class at the charming Nişanyan Houses boutique hotel, beginning your culinary adventure with a hands-on session led by an expert chef, the guardian of generations-old family recipes. Prepare traditional Turkish dishes, learning the secrets of making classic mezes (appetisers), savoury pastries, and flavourful main courses using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, before enjoying a tasting session of your creations in the relaxed setting of Nişanyan Houses. With full bellies, embark on a guided tour of Şirince, known for its traditional houses, cobblestone streets and lush surroundings. Explore the village’s Greek and Turkish heritage with a local guide and browse local markets for handmade crafts, souvenirs and local delicacies such as olive oil, wine and dried fruits. This delightful experience is perfect for food enthusiasts and culture lovers alike. Option 3 – Full-day experience: Sail the Aegean on a Traditional Gulet Today we board a craft slightly smaller than Douglas Mawson - a traditional Turkish gulet. Turkey’s breathtaking coastline, hidden coves, and popular beaches offer an ideal setting for a day of exploration. Enjoy stops at secluded bays for swimming and snorkelling, with equipment provided to discover vibrant marine life and coral reefs. Gulets, steeped in Turkish maritime tradition, started as ancient fishing and cargo vessels and have evolved into elegant wooden sailboats. Celebrated for their sturdy construction and graceful lines, gulets combine modern comforts with traditional craftsmanship. Built mainly in coastal towns like Bodrum and Marmaris, these vessels promise a relaxing day on the azure Aegean Sea. Lounge on sunbeds or seek shade on deck while savouring fresh Turkish dishes and local specialties prepared for lunch onboard, accompanied by local beverages.

For better or worse, it can be difficult to reach Patmos—for many travelers, this lack of access is definitely for the better, since the island retains the air of an unspoiled retreat. Rocky and barren, the small, 34-square-km (21-square-mi) island lies beyond the islands of Kalymnos and Leros, northwest of Kos. Here on a hillside is the Monastery of the Apocalypse, which enshrines the cave where St. John received the Revelation in AD 95. Scattered evidence of Mycenaean presence remains on Patmos, and walls of the classical period indicate the existence of a town near Skala. Most of the island's approximately 2,800 people live in three villages: Skala, medieval Chora, and the small rural settlement of Kambos. The island is popular among the faithful making pilgrimages to the monastery as well as with vacationing Athenians and a newly growing community of international trendsetters—designers, artists, poets, and “taste gurus” (to quote Vogue’s July 2011 write-up of the island)—who have bought homes in Chora. These stylemeisters followed in the footsteps of Alexandrian John Stefanidis and the English artist Teddy Millington-Drake who, in the early ’60s, set about creating what eventually became hailed as one of the most gorgeous island homes in the world. The word soon spread thanks to their many guests (who included Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis) but, happily, administrators have carefully contained development, and as a result, Patmos retains its charm and natural beauty—even in the busy month of August.

We return to Greece on the island of Patmos, where we spend a day enjoying the warm hospitality of the locals. Choose from one of our ‘Your Choice’ experiences, and then spend time exploring the capital Chora at your own pace. Relax at a waterfront café, shop for souvenirs, or watch the fishermen with their daily catch. We set sail in the early evening, allowing you plenty of time to unwind and enjoy the leisurely pace of this tranquil island. Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences. Option 1 – Half- day experience: Explore Patmos The island of Patmos is famous for its Christian connections. Known as the site where St John authored the Book of Revelation, it attracts pilgrims and history enthusiasts alike. Dominated by a monolithic turreted monastery, and surrounded by whitewashed homes, its capital, Chora, is a photographer’s dream. Visible from every point on the island, the 11th -century Monastery of St John the Theologian is reached by pathways adorned with pebbles. Its Byzantine frescoes of Saint John offer insight into monastic life, while its library holds over 15,000 historic manuscripts. We explore this sacred place and the Cave of the Apocalypse, alongside quaint villages with whitewashed houses and cobblestone streets on a morning’s exploration of Patmos. Our journey continues with a visit to a traditional taverna, where we savour authentic Greek snacks paired with locally made ouzo. As we enjoy our meal, the taverna comes alive with a vibrant folklore show, with an invitation to all guests to join in. Option 2 – Half-day experience: Sun, Sand and Island Charm Spend your morning at a popular beach, just a 10-minute drive south of the port. Agios Nikolaos Beach, with a pair of traditional Greek tavernas as its backdrop, invites you to unwind on your reserved sunbed and enjoy the warm, clear waters. Take a leisurely stroll to the nearby village, for a taste of authentic local life. Wander through its quaint streets, then walk to the headland where a whitewashed chapel completes the quintessential Greek beach scene. Lunch is at a local taverna with fresh, local fare. After lunch, return to the ship at the port of Skala, or choose to hop off in Chora, which is a 4 kilometre walk or a short taxi ride to the port.

Early travelers described Rhodes as a town of two parts: a castle or high town (Collachium) and a lower city. Today Rhodes town—sometimes referred to as Ródos town—is still a city of two parts: the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site that incorporates the high town and lower city, and the modern metropolis, or New Town, spreading away from the walls that encircle the Old Town. The narrow streets of the Old Town are for the most part closed to cars and are lined with Orthodox and Catholic churches, Turkish houses (some of which follow the ancient orthogonal plan), and medieval public buildings with exterior staircases and facades elegantly constructed of well-cut limestone from Lindos. Careful reconstruction in recent years has enhanced the harmonious effect.

Popular with culture enthusiasts and beach aficionados alike, Rhodes is the largest and most historically significant of Greece’s Dodecanese islands. Known for its medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Rhodes boasts ancient ruins and cobblestone laneways that transport us back to the days of medieval Europe, with two fascinating ‘Your Choice’ experiences on offer this morning, leaving the afternoon free to explore independently, or return to the ship for a swim in the pool, a before we sail late-afternoon. The island’s rich history is highlighted by two notable periods. After the Fourth Crusade, the Knights Hospitallers, fleeing Cyprus, were granted the island by Pope Clement V. They ruled for two centuries, constructing the impressive Palace of the Grand Master and fortifying the island. Their rule ended with the arrival of Suleiman the Magnificent, who, despite his conquest, allowed the Knights to leave with all the wealth they could carry. Whether exploring ancient sites or enjoying its sunny beaches, visitors to Rhodes will find a destination on where the past and present weave a fascinating tale. Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences. Option 1 – Morning experience: The Knights of St John and Medieval Rhodes The excursion begins with a short walk from the ship to the entrance of the Old Town, where our local guide leads us through this UNESCO-listed town. The Old Town lies apart from the New Town, sealed like a medieval time capsule behind a double ring of high walls and a deep moat. Nowhere else in the Dodecanese boasts so many layers of architectural history, with ruins and relics of the classical, medieval, Ottoman, and Italian eras intertwined in a maze of twisting alleys. Entering through the D’Amboise Gate, we visit the Grand Master’s Palace, the most imposing building of medieval Rhodes. The palace and ‘The Street of the Knights,’ built in the 14th century, have remained largely untouched by time. The Knights of Rhodes, also known as the Knights Hospitaller, where a Christian military order granted the island in 1309 by the Byzantine Empire. They fortified Rhodes to defend against Ottoman forces, establishing it as a cultural and trade centre. Despite their defeat by the Ottomans in 1522, their architectural legacy remains. It is one of the rare survivors of the medieval world, standing unscathed as a piece of the past. Option 2 – Morning experience: The Ancient City of Lindos A one-hour scenic drive along the East Coast of the island takes us to Lindos. Renowned as the most attractive village on Rhodes, the nearby ancient site boasts significant historical structures, including the Great Stoa, the Temple of Athena Lindia from the 4th century BCE, the ancient theatre, and the remnants of the Temple of Dionysus. The Acropolis, perched atop a sheer rock rising 115 meters above the sea, offers unparalleled views of the sea. Lindos itself is a medieval village built around the base of the steep rock leading to the Acropolis. As you wander through its narrow, winding streets, you will encounter traditionally built white stone houses adorned with decorated pebble stone floors. Many of these houses date back to the 15th and 16th centuries, providing a glimpse into the village’s storied past. Historically, Lindos was a significant city-state in ancient Greece, founded by the Dorians in the 10th century BC. It became a major trading centre, flourishing during the Archaic period when its influence extended across the Mediterranean. Lindos is also linked to various myths and legends, including Cleobulus, one of the Seven Sages of Greece, who ruled the city. As you explore Lindos, you will discover its rich history reflected in the architecture and archaeological remains scattered throughout the village. From its ancient roots to its medieval heritage, Lindos offers a unique journey through time, making it a must-visit destination on the island of Rhodes.

The second-largest city in Crete and capital of the Homonym Prefecture, Chania is located in Minoan Kidonia at the end of the Homonym Gulf between the Akrotiri and Onicha peninsulas. Chania City is divided into two parts; the Old Town, which is comprised of several connected districts built around the old Venetian Harbour, and New Town, a larger, more modern city whose centre is situated next to, and south of, the Old Town. The Old Town is home to Venetian buildings and Turkish elements that combine to create a unique architectural style, and is considered to be the most beautiful urban district on Crete. It was once surrounded by old Venetian fortifications that separated it from the New Town; however, only the eastern and western parts remain today. Due to its compact size, Skiathos can be easily explored in just a single day.

Our second port of call is Souda, the bustling port of Chania, known for its eclectic Old Town and scenic surrounding plains. This area provides a range of interesting experiences to explore. A full day here afford us time to enjoy a ‘Your Choice’ experience and the town of Chania should you wish. A shuttle from the ship to Chania Old Town this afternoon offers time to explore Chania independently before we sail in the early evening. Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences. Option 1 – Morning experience: Walk Chania Old Town and Artisan Demonstration Starting at the port of Chania, our journey takes us through the Akrotiri Peninsula to Chania Old Town, built upon an ancient Minoan settlement dating back to 3600 BC. This historic city has witnessed the reigns of Byzantines, Arabs, Venetians, and Ottomans before uniting with Greece. Explore Chania Old Town on a guided walking tour, where millennia of Greek history unfold amid Hellenistic walls, Ottoman bathhouses, and Venetian bastions. Driving through the city, we arrive in Chania’s Old Town, where our local guide captivates us with stories of the city’s past and present. Wander through narrow cobblestone alleys lined with shops, cafés, and restaurants, each district revealing its unique history and character rooted in the ancient city of Kydonia. Discover the influences of Muslim, Jewish, and Christian cultures interwoven throughout Chania’s eclectic past. Along the way, experience a unique pottery demonstration, offering a hands-on glimpse into Chania’s artisanal heritage and enriching your exploration of this storied city. You can choose to stay in town and take our shuttle back to the port of Souda this afternoon, or stay on the coach to relax onboard the Douglas Mawson before we set sail in the early evening. Option 2 – Morning experience: The Battle for Crete Your excursion today will retrace portions of the Battle of Crete (May-June 1941), honouring the fallen soldiers who valiantly fought for the island’s freedom. Around Chania, the battle was fierce, and several sites remain as reminders of these brutal conflicts. In Maleme, you will see where German paratroopers landed, leading to intense fighting. Nearby, Hill 107 offers a vantage point that witnessed heavy combat. The nearby RAF War Memorial commemorates the bravery of the Royal Air Force, while Galatas, known as “Prison Valley,” marks another pivotal battleground, while the Tavronitis Bridge, vital in the German invasion strategy, stands as a testament to the conflict’s intensity. The war profoundly affected the local people, who suffered great hardship and loss. Many Cretians joined the resistance, bravely fighting alongside Allied forces despite the immense danger. Finally, you will visit the Souda Commonwealth Cemetery, a solemn resting place for Allied soldiers. These sites provide a profound glimpse into the history and heroism of the Battle of Crete, ensuring the sacrifices made are never forgotten. Option 3 – Morning / lunch experience: Cretian Agrofarm experience Today, we journey to the rural Rethymno area. Our destination is an Agrofram that showcases centuries-old farming methods amidst traditional surroundings with stone outhouses, vineyards, and organic gardens. At the farm, our hosts will introduce us to their livestock while demonstrating the traditional farming techniques still in use today. You will see where they produce fragrant cheeses, the vat where grapes are tread by hand (or rather, feet) in the autumn, and the wine press where we can sample organic wine. After lighting the wood-burning stove, we will try our hand at traditional bread making, crafting our own bread shapes to enjoy hot from the oven with olive oil, just as the locals do. Under a shady pergola with views over the olive groves down to the sea, we will savour a sumptuous organic lunch with organic wine. The lunch menu typically includes Sfougato (traditional pie with free-range eggs), stuffed vegetables with feta, hand-picked salad, Myzithropitakia with honey, fresh seasonal fruits, Greek coffee, and red and white organic wine. Additionally, we’ll learn about Raki, a traditional spirit distilled from the remnants of grapes used in winemaking. This potent drink is often enjoyed as a symbol of hospitality and celebration. (Note: Your experience may differ from the itinerary above as farms are chosen subject to availability. Each with its own unique produce and livestock.)

Undoubtedly the most extraordinary island in the Aegean, crescent-shape Santorini remains a mandatory stop on the Cycladic tourist route—even if it's necessary to enjoy the sensational sunsets from Ia, the fascinating excavations, and the dazzling white towns with a million other travelers. Called Kállisti (the "Loveliest") when first settled, the island has now reverted to its subsequent name of Thira, after the 9th-century-BC Dorian colonizer Thiras. The place is better known, however, these days as Santorini, a name derived from its patroness, St. Irene of Thessaloniki, the Byzantine empress who restored icons to Orthodoxy and died in 802. You can fly conveniently to Santorini, but to enjoy a true Santorini rite of passage, opt instead for the boat trip here, which provides a spectacular introduction. After the boat sails between Sikinos and Ios, your deck-side perch approaches two close islands with a passage between them. The bigger one on the left is Santorini, and the smaller on the right is Thirassia. Passing between them, you see the village of Ia adorning Santorini's northernmost cliff like a white geometric beehive. You are in the caldera (volcanic crater), one of the world's truly breathtaking sights: a demilune of cliffs rising 1,100 feet, with the white clusters of the towns of Fira and Ia perched along the top. The bay, once the high center of the island, is 1,300 feet in some places, so deep that when boats dock in Santorini's shabby little port of Athinios, they do not drop anchor. The encircling cliffs are the ancient rim of a still-active volcano, and you are sailing east across its flooded caldera. On your right are the Burnt isles, the White isle, and other volcanic remnants, all lined up as if some outsize display in a geology museum. Hephaestus's subterranean fires smolder still—the volcano erupted in 198 BC, about 735, and there was an earthquake in 1956. Indeed, Santorini and its four neighboring islets are the fragmentary remains of a larger landmass that exploded about 1600 BC: the volcano's core blew sky high, and the sea rushed into the abyss to create the great bay, which measures 10 km by 7 km (6 mi by 4½ mi) and is 1,292 feet deep. The other pieces of the rim, which broke off in later eruptions, are Thirassia, where a few hundred people live, and deserted little Aspronissi ("White isle"). In the center of the bay, black and uninhabited, two cones, the Burnt Isles of Palea Kameni and Nea Kameni, appeared between 1573 and 1925. There has been too much speculation about the identification of Santorini with the mythical Atlantis, mentioned in Egyptian papyri and by Plato (who says it's in the Atlantic), but myths are hard to pin down. This is not true of old arguments about whether tidal waves from Santorini's cataclysmic explosion destroyed Minoan civilization on Crete, 113 km (70 mi) away. The latest carbon-dating evidence, which points to a few years before 1600 BC for the eruption, clearly indicates that the Minoans outlasted the eruption by a couple of hundred years, but most probably in a weakened state. In fact, the island still endures hardships: since antiquity, Santorini has depended on rain collected in cisterns for drinking and irrigating—the well water is often brackish—and the serious shortage is alleviated by the importation of water. However, the volcanic soil also yields riches: small, intense tomatoes with tough skins used for tomato paste (good restaurants here serve them); the famous Santorini fava beans, which have a light, fresh taste; barley; wheat; and white-skin eggplants.

As we arrive at Santorini, it is easy to see why this iconic island is a favourite among travellers. The sheer cliffs soaring above the Aegean Sea are awe-inspiring as we cross the immense crater of a submerged volcano that leads to its shores. Shaped by a cataclysmic eruption 3,600 years ago, Santorini is famed for its striking sunsets and unique caldera views. Named Thira in ancient times, Santorini has always attracted the curious. Its ancient ruins, including the Minoan site of Akrotiri, offer a rich cultural heritage reflected in local cuisine, wine production, vibrant festivals, and artisanal crafts. Whether wandering through the charming streets of Oia or enjoying the unique black sand beaches, Santorini offers a deeply enriching experience that melds history and natural beauty into the ideal Grecian Island. Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences. Option 1 – Morning experience: The village of Pygros and Wine Tasting Santorini Style Ascending Santorini's rocky caldera wall we reach Pyrgos, the highest village on the island, and enjoy breathtaking vistas. Pyrgos, once the capital of Santorini, preserves its traditional charm with narrow, winding streets, whitewashed houses, and blue-domed churches. Explore the remains of the Venetian Kasteli, a testament to the island's medieval period, offering panoramic views of the landscape. Take a guided walking tour through the village's labyrinthine lanes, discovering its unique charm and rich history. Visit the Church of Theotokaki, one of the island's oldest churches. Pyrgos' stunning views and historical significance make it a must-visit destination on Santorini. Afterwards, a short drive takes us to one of the island’s most acclaimed wineries, where we sample the locally produced wines. Here, we’ll learn about the “kalathies” vines and the unique way locals have been growing grapes for centuries and explore the cave-like cellars housed in beautiful traditional architecture. Following our wine tasting, we continue across the island to the capital of Santorini, Fira. Fira boasts fantastic views over the Caldera and offers an array of tempting boutiques and craft stores. Enjoy leisure time before our cable car ride takes us from Fira to the port below, where we tender back to our ship. Option 2 – Morning experience: Akotiri, Fira and the village of Oia Setting off from the port of Athinios, we drive to the ancient site of Akrotiri. This Bronze Age settlement, destroyed by a massive eruption in the 17th century BC, was buried under volcanic ash, which remarkably preserved the entire city. The people of Akrotiri were advanced for their time, with a well-organised society evidenced by their sophisticated infrastructure, vibrant frescoes, and complex urban layout. Its inhabitants had a high standard of living, with access to imported goods from across the Mediterranean. The ruins remained hidden until 1860, when workers quarrying volcanic ash for the Suez Canal uncovered them. The discovery of their homes and artifacts provides valuable insights into their daily lives and societal structure. Next, our coach takes us to the picturesque village of Oia, home to around 1,000 residents. This charming village is renowned for its immaculate, white-washed houses and blue-domed churches. The residents here live a relaxed and traditional lifestyle surrounded by stunning views across the Aegean. You will have free time to capture stunning photos and explore the quaint streets before we continue to the capital town of Fira, where we wander its narrow alleyways at leisure, before our tour ends with a scenic cable car ride from Fira down to the port, where our tender awaits.

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.

Today's visit offers a glimpse into a lesser-known island, providing an authentic local experience rather than a typical tourist destination. As the administrative centre of the Cyclades, a group of islands south-east of the mainland, Syros combines cosmopolitan flair with authentic Greek-island charm, all while steering clear of the crowds typical of its more famous island counterparts. The island is celebrated for its pristine beaches, including Kini, Vari, Azolimnos, and Galissas, as well as its renowned Aegean cuisine. Syros’s capital, Ermoupolis, stands out with its grand architecture and prominent Orthodox church, contrasting beautifully with the nearby hilltop enclave of Ano Syros. The latter, a quintessential Cycladic village, features Roman Catholic monasteries and churches. This blend of influences – stemming from Venetian and Ottoman rule – has left a lasting imprint on the island’s cultural and architectural heritage. The name ‘Syros’ is believed to derive from the ancient Greek term Syr or Syros, hinting at its mythological roots. With a population of around 21,000, Syros offers a quintessentially Greek Island experience. Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences. Option 1 – Morning experience: The Syros Trifecta This morning, immerse yourself in the charm of Syros as you explore Ermoupolis, Ano Syros, and the Vaporia Quarter. Start your adventure in Ermoupolis, the bustling capital of the Cyclades. Wander through its elegant streets lined with grand neoclassical buildings and admire the intricate facades of the Town Hall and Apollo Theater. The town’s wide squares are perfect for a leisurely stroll, showcasing a delightful mix of Italian and Greek influences. Next, head up to Ano Syros, a picturesque Venetian hilltop settlement. Lose yourself in the narrow, winding lanes of this fortress settlement and discover its quaint stone walls and wooden lookout balconies designed to ward off pirates. At the top, the Catholic Cathedral of Saint George offers stunning views and a peek into the area’s rich history. Finish your tour in the Vaporia Quarter, where 19th -century mansions stand as a testament to Syros’s past affluence. Wonder at the marble carvings and frescoes of these neoclassical homes while enjoying the charming streets. The striking blue dome of the church of Agios Nikolaos makes the Vaporia Quarter a truly photogenic gem. Option 2 – Half-day experience: A Day at the Beach – Syros Style For a perfect day in the sun, Agathopes Beach is your ideal destination. Just a half-hour drive from the port, this tranquil beach offers a break from the island’s busier areas. Renowned for its golden sand and clear waters, Agathopes is perfect for a refreshing swim or relaxed sunbathing. The shallow seabed is great for a leisurely dip, and you can rent a sunbed and umbrella to enhance your comfort (at your own expense). Enjoy a delicious lunch, featuring fresh, locally grown and caught delicacies that highlight the best of Greek cuisine. Bask in the sun, savour the flavours of the region and unwind in this stunning coastal spot.