THE THREE CONTINENTS

Travel to Europe, Asia, and Africa on an enchanting 11-day cruise and land program that touches three continents. The amazement commences with an in-depth Greece vacation exploration, featuring two nights in Athens where you will experience this old world meets modern capital, discover the awe-inspiring Acropolis and the New Acropolis Museum, and have plenty of free time to savor the lively culture in the “Plaka” pedestrian center or at a local taverna. Board your ship and travel to Egypt for the first stop on your cruise. From Alexandria, you will embark on a Classic Cairo excursion that takes you to visit the mighty Pyramids of Giza, see the massive Sphinx, and explore the National Archaeological Museum with the treasures of King Tutankhamen. As you cruise along to West Asia, you have the unique opportunity to join an optional pilgrimage excursion to Jerusalem and Bethlehem from Ashdod in Israel. Further along, bask in the glittering warmth and seaside splendors of Cyprus' Limassol. On your next stop, take a Medieval tour of the Acropolis of Lindos and the Citadel of the Knights in Rhodes. Then, sail to Turkey's Kusadasi and explore Ancient Ephesus through the ages on an included tour that showcases Hellinistic and Roman tales before returning to Athens.

Day 1 - THU I ATHENS

Arrival into Athens. Balance of the day is at leisure for you to get acquainted with Athens, the capital and largest city of Greece.

Day 2 - FRI I ATHENS

Half day morning city tour includes highlights of Athens and the Acropolis plus the new Acropolis Museum. Afternoon and balance of day is at leisure. (B)

Day 3 - SAT I ATHENS

This afternoon, transfer to Piraeus and embark on your cruise ship. (B,D)

Day 4 - SUN I AT SEA

Today take the time and get to know your ship as you cruise from Piraeus towards the port of Alexandria. Entertainment and music performances, fine dining, games and much more are on board for everyone. (B,L,D)

Day 5 - MON I ALEXANDRIA I CAIRO I PORT SAID

Welcome to Egypt! Cairo, the largest city in Africa, and all its top sights are waiting to be discovered on this full day excursion from Alexandria. Leaving the port in a luxury air-conditioned coach, you’ll journey south towards Cairo. Your first stop will be the last remaining Wonder of the Ancient World, the mighty Pyramids of Giza. Then, continuing through the valley, you’ll spot the supreme Sphinx guarding the land. A buffet lunch will be served at a 5-star hotel, after which, there’s more sightseeing on the agenda – this time in the heart of Cairo. From the bustling Tahrir (Liberty) Square, you’ll head to the National Archaeological Museum. After visiting a Papyrus Institute, there’s some time dedicated to souvenir shopping before travelling back to the cruise ship. (B,L,D)

Day 6 - TUE I ASHOD

Welcome to Israel! Located on the sun-soaked Mediterranean coastline, Ashod is the starting point for a pilgrimage all of your own. A melting pot of religious monuments and cultural offerings can all be found within a short trip. Time to relax or to take one of the optional excursions available. (B,L,D)

Day 7 - WED I LIMASSOL

Welcome to Cyprus! Your first glimpse of Limassol from the cruise ship is its shiny, modern marina, filled with row upon row of yachts and fishing boats. Time to relax or to take one of the optional excursions available. (B,L,D)

Day 8 - THU I RHODES

Welcome back to Greece! Approaching the island of Rhodes by sea is an experience all of its own. Morning call at Greece’s largest island. Centuries of culture and layer upon layer of extraordinary civilizations await to be discovered through impressive Lindos and within the awe-inspiring structure of the Acropolis of Lindos. Follow the footsteps of heroes as you walk along Knight’s Street in the heart of historical Rhodes. Sitting at the top of Knights Street, the Grand Master’s Palace is well worth its name. You will be awed by the fort’s imposing Gothic architecture and strength displayed throughout its court structures. End your tour of historical Rhodes with free time. (B,L,D)

Day 9 - FRI I KUSADASI

Welcome to Turkey! Morning arrival in Kusadasi. A huge covered Bazaar stretches out in front of you, and the buzz from trendy seaside bars and restaurants floats through the air. Visit nearby Ephesus, one of the “Seven Wonders of the Ancient World”. Built 3,000 years ago, Ephesus shaped the history of Greek, Turkish and Christian civilizations from its privileged location, chosen (according to legend) by the oracle of Delphi. In the evening, sail for Athens. (B,L,D)