Sail seamlessly between modernity and antiquity with our Greek Isles and Turkish Delights itineraries. Sip espresso at a chic café in downtown Athens while the ancient Greek gods seem to guard the city from above on the Acropolis. Then, cruise to the thoroughly modern islands of Mykonos and Santorini, where you can bask in the hot Aegean sun before socializing in the beachfront tavernas. Walk in the steps of past heroes in Bodrum Castle, which was built by the the Knights Hospitaller in the 15th century, and Ephesus, an ancient Greek city where gladiators and kings prevailed. Then continue on to Istanbul, where the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia will inspire you before you head to the thriving markets and pulsing nightlife in the city center.
These itineraries represent Europe’s most powerful ancient civilizations and most lively, vivacious coastal communities. Treat yourself to sun and sea while also soaking up the history and beauty of the region. We can’t wait to explore the Aegean and Mediterranean seas with you!
Greek Isles & Turkish Delights I
Set sail from Athens on a journey through history, from Minoan ruins on Santorini to the Celsus Library at Ephesus. As you pull in to the harbor, the stunning white-washed buildings and blue domes of Santorini welcome you to this breathtaking region. Dine on fresh seafood at chic seaside cafes, or spend the afternoon browsing the local Mykonos boutiques. Sip on ink-black Turkish coffee in a Bodrum tavern. Take a journey back in time while admiring the glorious ancient ruins of the Library of Celsus and Temple of Artemis in Ephesus.
Seven-day sailings from Athens to Istanbul visit Mykonos, Greece; Santorini, Greece; Rhodes, Greece; Bodrum, Turkey; and Kusadasi, Turkey depart May 5, 19, 26; June 2, 9, 16, 30; July 14, 28; August 11, 18, 25; September 1, 8, 15, 22, 29; and October 6, 20, 2012. Two-for-one savings fares plus two free hotel nights per cabin in your choice of Athens or Istanbul available on select sailings, starting from $2,499 per person.
Greek Isles & Turkish Delights II
Capture of the mystery of exotic Istanbul before sailing on to the chic islands of Santorini and Mykonos. Discover the vestiges of Ottoman glory at the famous Blue Mosque of Istanbul. Savor the sensuous aromas of exotic spices at Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar. Toast a glorious Aegean afternoon with a glass of ouzo in Santorini. View the majestic temple to Athena – the Parthenon on the Acropolis – with its dazzling presence towering over modern Athens.
Seven-day sailings from Istanbul to Athens visit Kusadasi, Turkey; Rhodes, Greece; Bodrum, Turkey; Santorini, Greece; and Mykonos, Greece depart May 19, 26; June 2, 9, 16, 23; July 7, 21; August 4, 18, 25; September 1, 8, 15, 22, 29; and October 6, 27, 2012. Two-for-one savings fares plus two free hotel nights per cabin in your choice of Athens or Istanbul available on select sailings, starting from, $2,499 per person. Guests sailing from Istanbul also receive an additional bonus, bottled water and the helpful assistance of an English-speaking escort.
