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Itinerary |
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Day 1 Mon Depart USA Overnight flight to Larnaca. Meals and refreshments served on board. Day 2 Tue Larnaca/Limassol Arrive at Larnaca Airport and transfer on your own to your hotel. Balance of the day is at leisure. Day 3 Wed Limassol Explore Limassol. In the Old Town you will find shops, traditional markets, sidewalk cafes, restaurants and tavernas certain to satisfy all tastes. (B) Day 4 Thu Limassol (Troodos Mountains & Kykkos Monastery) Discover Troodos Mountains, traveling through unspoiled villages to Mount Olympus. Continue to "Throni" to see the Tomb of Archbishop Makarios III, Cyprus' first President and then to the Monastery of Kykkos, built in 1092 A.D. (B) Day 5 Fri Limassol (Kurion & Paphos) Today you travel to Kourion, to admire the Greco-Roman theatre and mosaics. Next stop is Aphrodite's Rock, where the Goddess of Love was born out of the sea. We finally reach Paphos, a town included in UNESCO's World Cultural Heritage List. See St. Solomoni's catacombs, the Pillar of St. Paul, Dionysos' house and beautiful mosaics of Greek Mythology. Return to Limassol via Ayia Paraskevi Basilica (9th cent.) and Yeroskipou for a taste of 'Loukoumia' (a Cypriot sweet). (B) Day 6 Sat Limassol/Athens Taxi transfer to Larnaca Airport for your flight to Athens, where you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The balance of the day is free. (B) Day 7 Sun Athens The morning Athens city tour includes Constitution Square, the House of Parliament, the Memorial to the Unknown Soldier, and the Panathenaic Stadium On Acropolis Hill, visit the magnificent monuments dating to the Golden Age of Athens, highlighted by the storied Parthenon. (B) Day 8 Mon Athens/Piraeus/Cruise (Mykonos) After breakfast, transfer to the port of Piraeus and embark for your Aegean islands cruise. Sail to picturesque and cosmopolitan Mykonos, where an optional excursion to Hora, the quaint island capital, is available. (B,L,D) Day 9 Tue Cruise (Kusadasi/Patmos) Morning arrival at Kusadasi (Turkey). Optional excursion to Ephesus and the house of the Virgin Mary. Later sail to Patmos where St. John the Divine received The Revelation. Optional excursions to the Monastery and Grotto of the Apocalypse or a tour of the scenic island. (B,L,D) Day 10 Wed Cruise (Rhodes) A full day in Rhodes, the "Island of Roses". Optional visits to Lindos and the majestic Acropolis, or the Old Town and Philerimos. From July to September, Butterflies Valley and walking tour. (B,L,D) Day 11 Thu Cruise (Heraklion/Santorini) Morning call at Greece's largest island, Crete. Here you have an optional visit of Knossos and the Palace of King Minos or enjoy a taste of Crete. Later sail for the volcanic island of Santorini with its town perched high above the sea and believed by many to be the site of the lost continent of Atlantis. (B,L,D) Day 12 Fri Cruise/Piraeus/USA(or extend your stay) Disembark in Piraeus and transfer on your own to Athens Airport for your return flight to the USA, arriving the same day. (B) |
Rates
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Hotels
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Information/Restrictions
Special Airfares are available for this selected packages.
Cabin Upgrade: Supplements (in double) Per Person
Outside 2 Lower Beds Cat XA $ 49.00 to $ 55.00 p.p
Superior Cabin Cat XB $ 66.00 to $ 77.00 p.p
Deluxe Cabin Cat XC $ 164.00 to $ 181.00 p.p
FREE CRUISE for children under 16 years of age if sharing cabin with two adults.
Plus per person Fuel Surcharge $ 36.00 and Port Taxes $ 105.00.
Price is per person based on double occupancy and may vary according to hotel selection. Rates for Single/Triple/Children and additional nights in Athens are available. A SELECTION OF OTHER HOTELS IS AVAILABLE.
Shipping Information
On board our classic cruise ships you will be pampered by our crew. All staterooms are equipped with shower, WC, wash basin, air conditioning, telephone and TV. All cabin categories SJO, SJ & S have fridge. Hairdryer in all S staterooms. Facilities: Sun Deck, Cafe Royal (inside & outside), Topsiders Bar, Pool Bar, Outdoor Cafe, 2 Swimming Pools (for Adults), 2 Hot Tubs, Piazza Sanmarco (outdoor pizzeria & pasta shop), Royal Observatory, Kid's Corner, Children's Pool, Disco, Beauty Salon, Fitness Centre (6 massage rooms), Bodywave Spa (Mandara Spa & Sauna), Polo Club Piano Bar, Monte Carlo Casino, The Palace Theatre, Four Seasons Restaurant, Seven Seas Dining Room, Le Bistro Cafe, Rendez Vous Lounge & Bar, The Coffee Bar/Espresso point, Royal Fireworks Lounge, House of Lords Lounge, Internet Cafe, Crossroads Area (Shore Excursions Desk, Reception Desk, Credit Desk), Duty Free & Travel Value Shops, Photo Gallery, Boardroom, Library / Card room, Video Arcade, Conference Room Technical Data: Gross Tonnage: 40,876 - Length: 679.46 feet - Breadth: 90.55 feet Draught: 20.24 feet - Outside Staterooms: 482 - Inside Staterooms: 250 - Cruising Speed: 19 knots - Passengers Decks: 10 - Elevators: 6 - Stabilizers: yes Electric Current: 110/220V AC - Classification: DNV
Amenities
When at sea, relax on one of our spacious sun decks, read your favorite book, play a game of cards in our library, take dancing lessons or enjoy a daily work out at the fitness center followed by a complete make over in the beauty salon or our full service health spa. A refreshing swim in the pool will prepare you for our Shore Excursion Program that offers a variety of interesting tour options ashore. Take in the sights and sounds of foreign lands. Clear blue skies, unspoiled scenery, fascinating archaeological sites, friendly vibrant people, delicious food, captivating music and dances will entertain your mind, body and soul. At sunset the lights come on and the atmosphere onboard changes completely! Enjoy the company of newfound friends, try your luck in the casino, enjoy the show and then hit the dance floor in the disco till early morning hours! Children's Activites. Onboard there are menus, activities and a variety of entertainment designed to suit every family member from kids to grandparents In our onboard Duty Free and Travel Value shops, you will find an extensive selection of international brands and designer products.
Dining
From early morning to late at night, there will hardly be a moment that you will not be tempted by something delicious and appetizing. Aromas from an outdoor fresh pasta station or a teatime buffet full of tasty sandwiches and pastries are bound to break your resolve. Our cuisine combines the exquisite variety of the Mediterranean with other popular flavours from around the world, creating a culinary harmony that suits every palate. All our food is produced onboard and we are sensitive to modern dietary concerns, using healthy preparation methods and fresh ingredients. So eat to your hearts content in our well designed restaurants with pleasing sea views!
Shipping Information
Knossos Palace (HER - 02) Half day Crete is the largest and the most rugged of the Greek islands. It is also the home of the great Minoan Civilization and the mythological home of Zeus. After a short drive through the town of Heraklion the tour will arrive at the Knossos excavations. Here, Sir Arthur Evan's archaeological discoveries revealed a civilization dating back to 4000 B.C., when a great empire flourished on the island of Crete. Based on the wealth of artefacts that were found, Evans theorized that this was the site of the ancient Minoan Kingdom. These findings will be viewed in detail, as your guide will lead you on a journey of discovery to learn of the sophisticated culture that flourished thousands of years ago on this island. The Palace, decorated with frescoes and shields houses the Hall of the Royal Guard, the Hall of the Double Axes, the King's Chamber with the alabaster throne, the Queen's Apartment, beautiful courtyards and shrines. Having visited this remarkable site your coaches will take you back to the Venetian lion-guarded port of Heraklion to rejoin your ship. REMARKS Walking in the archaeological site of Knossos will be on uneven gravel surfaces. Passengers may not be allowed to enter the site with big bags/rucksacks.
Heraklion, Greece
A Taste of Crete (HER - 04) Half day The tour begins from the Venetian lion-guarded port of Heraklion with a drive through the city to the famous wine producing area of Peza, south of Heraklion. The drive is through breathtaking landscape of countryside and vineyards as old as Minoan times. The first stop is a modern winery, where you will see the updated methods of wine making and sample some of the delicious Cretan wines. The drive continues through rural villages to the village of Archanes, the municipality in the area. On the way, a photo stop is made at Vathypetro to view one of the oldest farmhouses in Crete, dating to the Minoan period 16th century B.C.. The tour continues through the island's hilly countryside where olive groves and vineyards existed from as far back as 4,000 years. Arriving at the village of Archanes, which is situated 10km south of the Palace of Knossos, the quaint market town of Archanes has many restored sandstone houses dating from the Turkish period. At a taverna in the village's tree-shaded square, you can sample an assortment of Cretan snacks and locally produced wine, and have a chance to mingle with many of the locals themselves while listening to typical Greek live music. You will have free time to browse before the return drive to the port of Heraklion and the ship.
Kusadasi, Turkey
Ephesus & the House of Virgin Mary (KUS - 01) Half day Drive through the colourful town of Kusadasi to reach Mt. Koressos. Situated in a small valley, the humble chapel 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 Ephesus accompanied by your guide walk through the Magnesian Gate which is the entrance to the ancient city of Ephesus. 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, the largest one in antiquity with a capacity of 24,000 seats where St. Paul preached. Walk back to the coach along the Arcadian Way, where Mark Anthony and Cleopatra once rode in procession. While driving back to Kusadasi and just outside Ephesus, view the Basilica of St. John, which was erected over his grave in the 6th century A.D. by Emperor Justinian. Before returning to the ship, enjoy free time in Kusadasi or get a cultural taste of Turkey by enjoying an exhibition of oriental carpets, jewellery or leather goods. REMARKS Tour not suitable for passengers with walking difficulties.
Kusadasi, Turkey
Ancient Ephesus (KUS - 02) Half day Drive through the colourful town of Kusadasi and along the coast to reach Ephesus, famous in antiquity for its Temple of Diana - one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World - and later the home of St. John. During the years of the Roman Empire, the Greek port of Ephesus became the greatest city in Asia Minor. Upon arrival at Ephesus follow your guide to enter the ancient site through the Magnesian Gate. Discover innumerable monuments including 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 noted for its remarkable acoustics. View the symbols all around and marvel at the fact that one is still able to read the inscriptions in the ancient Greek language. Walk back to your coach along the Arcadian Way, where once Mark Anthony and Cleopatra rode in procession. As you drive back to Kusadasi, on a hill above Selcuk, just outside Ephesus, view the Basilica of St. John, which was erected over his grave in the 6th century A.D. by Emperor Justinian. Before returning to the ship, enjoy free time in Kusadasi or get a cultural taste of Turkey by enjoying an exhibition of oriental carpets, jewellery or leather goods. REMARKS Tour not suitable for passengers with walking difficulties.
Mykonos, Greece
Mykonos Walking Tour (MYK - 01) Half day Mykonos is world famous. It is the most cosmopolitan of the Greek Islands and attracts many visitors from all over the globe, including large numbers of artists and intellectuals. Your coach will take you to 'Hora' the island's capital where you will enjoy a walking tour in the narrow cobbled streets of the town, passing by chic boutiques, elegant nightclubs and white�washed houses until reaching Alefkandra. Alefkandra is a charming corner of Hora, known also as the 'Venice' of Mykonos. The houses are built on the sea, with wooden balconies that evoke Venice. These were built from the mid. 18th century onward and were homes of wealthy merchants and captains. At Louis Theoxenia Hotel, you will enjoy the atmosphere while drinking your refreshment accompanied by Greek �meze'. You will return then to Mykonos Town (Hora) from where you will take the ship's shuttle service back to the port to meet your ship.
Patmos, Greece
St. John's Monastery & Grotto of the Apocalypse (PAT - 01) Half day Depart from the port of Scala and enjoy a short drive to the village of Chora, where the Monastery of St. John is built within the walls of a strong fortification. As you walk uphill towards the entrance of the monastery marvel at this magnificent structure, which was built 900 years ago. View the courtyard, the monks' dining room and the old bakery before you visit the main church noted for its outstanding frescoes and interior decoration. Next, visit the small museum where priceless ecclesiastical treasures, books, manuscripts, mosaics, icons, splendid medieval textiles, vestments and jewellery are housed. Return to your motor coach and continue to the nearby Grotto of the Apocalypse and the Monastery of the Apocalypse above it. Walk down the steps to the Grotto of the Apocalypse. Here you will see the niches in the wall that mark the pillow and ledge used as a desk by the author of the Book of the Revelation and the crack in the rock made by the voice of God honouring the Holy Trinity. Afterwards, drive back to the port of Scala and enjoy some free time in this quaint and picturesque town. REMARKS Tour not suitable for passengers with walking difficulties.
Patmos, Greece
Scenic Island Tour (PAT - 02) Half day An interesting scenic island tour has been designed for those passengers who prefer to discover the beauties of Patmos from the comfort of an air-conditioned motor coach. Start the tour from the port of Scala and drive to the central part of the island 'Chora' which is the location of the Majestic Byzantine Monastery of St. John the Divine, built in 1088. Your sightseeing will first bring you to the Grotto of the Apocalypse, and then to the windmills of Chora, once upon a time the landmark of all Aegean Islands, from where you will enjoy a beautiful view and have the chance to take photos. Afterwards, continue around the island to see its landscape of outstanding natural beauty comprising of rocky hills, dozens of tongues of land reaching out into the sea, tranquil beaches and many picturesque inlets. Before arriving at the port, a stop of 10 minutes is made at the square at Kambos in the north part of island. The tour ends at the port of Scala to enjoy free time in the quaint and picturesque little town. A refreshment or a coffee will be offered at Arion Cafe, the oldest and most beautiful cafe of the town.
Patmos, Greece
Afternoon on the beach (PAT - 03) Half day Enjoy a relaxing afternoon, soaking up the sun and swimming in the crystal clear blue waters of the Aegean Sea. Depart the port by motor coach for the short drive to the beach. Here, you will spend two hours, swimming, sunbathing and relaxing on the tranquil beaches of Patmos. There are changing facilities in the cafeteria on the beach, sun beds and umbrellas are provided, for your comfort and enjoyment. Relax over refreshments before returning back to the port of Scala. REMARKS The tour will be available from May to September. Clients will have to bring their own beach towel.
Rhodes, Greece
Rhodes & Lindos Combined (RHO - 01) Half day Drive along the picturesque south-eastern coastline, dotted with white-washed villages, to Lindos, one of the most important of the three great cities of ancient times. See how this entire city is guarded by medieval walls which were constructed by the knights of St. John in the 13th century. Within them stands the ancient Acropolis of Lindos, on the brink of a precipice 400 feet above the sea. From the Acropolis, marvel at the breathtaking views covering the great expanse of the Aegean Sea and St. Paul's Bay, where the apostle cast anchor during his historic voyage to Ephesus. Proceed on foot uphill, to the great staircase leading from the Hellenistic Portico to the Acropolis and Temple of Athena. Should you wish to make your way up by mule, a fee must be paid to the local muleteer. After the guided tour of the Acropolis, enjoy some free time on your own in Lindos village before meeting up with your motor coach. Return to Rhodes city and enjoy a panoramic drive through the new part of the city before continuing to Mount Smith to see the ruins of ancient Rhodes, the Temple of Apollo and Diagoras Stadium. Afterwards your motor coach will drop you off at Porte d'Amboise, the start of the walking tour through the medieval city of Rhodes. Follow your guide through the northern part where once lived the knights and their attendants. View the Palace of the Knights, continue your walk down Chevaliers Road to the Marine Gate and return back to the ship. A short visit to a ceramic factory is included. REMARKS Please note that the journey from Rhodes to Lindos is approx. 50 min.
Rhodes, Greece
Old City & Philerimos (RHO - 02) Half day Drive along the medieval walls to the summit of Mount Smith, the Acropolis of ancient Rhodes. From the tumbled massive pillars of the Temple of Athena, the view encompasses the nearby Temple of Apollo, the stadium of Diagoras and the port, once protected by the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world. The drive continues across the island to Philerimos. The summit of Philerimos was the site of Ialysos, one of the three ancient cities of Rhodes. Later sites include the restored Byzantine Church of Our Lady of Philerimos, a chapel with 15th century frescoes, and the ruined Castle of the Knights. After the visit and some free time, return to Rhodes and begin a guided walk of the old walled city to the Porte d'Amboise. It is a pleasure to stroll the street of the Knights with its medieval buildings, winding alleys, towers, turrets and emblazoned fa�ades. You will then visit the impressive Grand Master's Palace and have the chance to see the superb mosaics. The pleasant walk passes through the Marine Gate before you return to the ship.
Rhodes, Greece
Lindos with lunch by the beach (RHO - 03) Full day Departure from the ship. Drive alongside the walls of the Medieval city stopping at Porte D'Amboise where you start your stroll through the old town. Walk down Chevaliers Road and view the Palace of the Knights and the medieval houses of the knights. Continue passing by the hospital of the Knights of St. John before meeting up with your motorcoach at the Marine Gate for the trip to Lindos. Enjoy a relaxing drive along the southeastern coastline on the way to Lindos. On arrival follow your guide and proceed on foot uphill to explore the Acropolis of Lindos which overlooks the Aegean Sea and St. Paul's Bay and marvel at the breathtaking views. Afterwards there is free time to discover this lovely town at your own pace before meeting up with your guide. Continue to Louis Colossos Hotel a modern luxury hotel, where you will be able to swim either in the crystal clear waters of the sea in front of the hotel or in the swimming pool. A buffet lunch with a variety of traditional Greek dishes is served in the hotel. You can use the hotel's changing facilities and sunbeds. Return to the ship driving alongside the East coastline. A short visit to a ceramic factory is included. A short stop at a ceramic factory is included. REMARKS The tour will be available from May to September. Clients will have to bring their own beach towel. Please note that the journey from Rhodes to Lindos is approx. 50 min.
Santorini, Greece
Thira & Oia Village (SAN - 01) Half day Driving along the road you will have the unique opportunity to admire the panoramic view of the Aegean Sea and the neighbouring islands. A unique sight is the various layers of lava that can be seen on the face of the rock, each layer being another phase of the activity of the volcano. Built on the Caldera rim, Oia Village is an excellent example of Cycladic architecture. Explore the village walking along the cobble-stone streets and the white washed houses with blue shutters where one gets the impression that they are a beautiful travel poster. The tour will then proceed to the town of Fira, an attractive town perched on the Caldera rim. Here, you will have time to stroll along the lanes of the little town or relax over a coffee as you gaze down upon Kamenes, the two black volcanic islets in the Caldera Bay. A short cable car ride will take you down to the pier to rejoin the ship.
Santorini, Greece
Santorini Sailing & Volcano (SAN - 02) Half day Enjoy a cruise (on motorboat) around the active crater of Nea Kameni islet. Sail along the strange formations of its volcanic shores, where black lava rocks and white pumice are combined beautifully with the red colour of lava. Take a walk to the top of the volcanic island where sulphur is spewed into the air by one of the craters. Enjoy this surreal landscape as your guide narrates the creation and history of the volcano and the last eruption leading to the destruction of the island of Santorini. The tidal wave created by the eruption was of such an immense magnitude, it destroyed the thriving city of Knossos on the island of Crete. As your caique enters the narrows of the two lava islets, Palea and Nea Kameni, the colour of the water changes from dark blue to sulphur green. In the distance, admire the breathtaking sight of Fira town with its white washed houses clinging precariously on the rim of the Caldera. Take time to swim in the warm waters heated by Hot Springs on the sea floor. Continue your tour to the town of Fira. A short cable car ride will then take you down to the pier to rejoin the ship. REMARKS The tour will be available from April to September. It is recommended to bring your swimsuit and a towel.
Sightseeing
| Athens by night Call for Price | |
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This Tour is Available from: Athens Athens by night with dinner Departure time: Between 7:25pm and 8:10pm Schedule: From April to October: Daily. From November to March: on Thursdays and Saturdays only. Duration: 4 hours Highlights: Scenic drive followed by dinner in the Plaka district, including a show at a typical Greek taverna. |
| Full day Argolis Call for Price | |
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This Tour is Available from: Athens Full day Argolis with lunch Departure time: Between 7:35am and 8:10am Schedule: From April to October: on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays only. From November to March: on Tuesdays and Saturdays only. Duration: 8 hours Highlights: Lion's Gate, the tomb of Agamemnon, the Palace, Epidaurus and its theater. |
| Full-day cruise Hydra-Poros-Aegina Call for Price | |
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This Tour is Available from: Athens Full day cruise Hydra-Poros-Aegina with lunch Departure time: Between 7:20am and 7:40am Schedule: Daily Duration: 8 hours Highlights: Tome at leisure on the Island of Hydra. Visit of Poros on the Island of Aegina. |
| Full-day Delphi Call for Price | |
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This Tour is Available from: Athens Full day Delphi with lunch Departure time: Between 7:35am and 8:10am Schedule: From April to October: Daily. From November to March: on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays only. Duration: 8 hours Highlights: Drive through Levadia and Arachova to Delphi, the ancient sanctuary of Apollo. Visit the museum and Temple of Apollo. |
| Half-day ancient Corinth Call for Price | |
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This Tour is Available from: Athens Half day ancient Corinth Departure time: Between 7:35am and 7:40am Schedule: From April to October only: on Mondays and Fridays only. Duration: 4 hours Highlights:See the Ancient town of Corinth where St. Paul lived and preached for two years. The remains of the city include the Agora, the Apollo s Temple and the ancient port where St. Paul disembarked. |
| Half-day Cape Sounion Call for Price | |
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This Tour is Available from: Athens Half day Cape Sounion Departure time: Between 2:10pm and 2:45pm Schedule: From April to October: Daily. From November to March: on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays only. Duration: 4 hours Highlights: Scenic drive along the coastal road followed by a visit of Cape Sounion, dominated by the Temple of Poseidon |
| Half-day tour of Athens Call for Price | |
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This Tour is Available from: Athens Half day Tour of Athens Departure time: Between 7:35am and 8:10am Schedule: Daily Duration: 4 hours Highlights: Roman Temple of Olympian Seuz, the Acropolis, the Parthenon, the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike and the Erechteion, Acropolis Museum (museum will reopen sometime in 2009 - no offical date is available). |
Tour Features 2012
Itinerary 2012
Rates
Hotels
Sightseeing/Excursions
Information/Restrictions
Ship Information
