A voyage through history dedicated to the Golden Age of Greek civilization and beyond, this cruise comes complete with a guest lecturer, Eugenia Alexiou. Eugenia has a Master’s degree in Byzantine Art, is an expert historian and, as a graduate of the Athens’ Tour Guide Academy, is the perfect tutor through all the classical sites and sights we visit. This journey to off-the-beaten track locales in the Peloponnese peninsula is a masterclass on the journey through classical antiquity and the Roman conquest, ending with the transition to the Christian empire of Byzantium.
NB The Corinth Canal is currently closed during the winter so this cruise won't be able to transit the canal. Kindly note that free bus transfers will be offered to all guests from Corinth to Athens and reverse.
Highlights
• Visit Nafplion: Explore the historic town of Nafplion, the first capital of modern Greece, known for its picturesque setting, Bourtzi fortress on a small island, and the Palamidi hill fort with its 999 steps.
• Optional Excursions to Ancient Epidaurus and Mycenae: Take optional excursions to Ancient Epidaurus, famous for its theater with exceptional acoustics, and Mycenae, a major center of Greek civilization, where you can see the Lion's Gate, Cyclopean walls, and Agamemnon's Tomb.
• Discover Monemvasia: Explore the medieval fortified town of Monemvasia, birthplace of the renowned Greek poet Giannis Ritsos. Marvel at its well-preserved architecture and immerse yourself in its rich history.
• Diros Caves and Mani Peninsula: Embark on an optional excursion to the spectacular Diros Caves, an underground wonder with stunning stalactites and stalagmites. Journey through the rugged and desolate Mani Peninsula, known for its windswept landscapes and historic towers.
• Olympia and Delphi Excursions: Take optional excursions to Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games, and Delphi, renowned for its ancient oracle. Explore the ancient ruins, visit the Olympia Museum, and enjoy panoramic views of Delphi's mountainous setting.
Embarkation between 2-3 pm. Enjoy a welcome drink and meet your crew and fellow
passengers. Sail for Nafplion, the first Capital of modern Greece and main port of eastern
Peloponnese. Nafplion is known for Bourtzi, a fortress built on a small island nearby the port, and
Palamidi, the hill fort of ''999 steps'', which is a protected habitat of European Ecological Network
Natura 2000. Dinner on board and late night arrival. Overnight in port.
We leave our ship early in the morning to drive to Ancient Epidaurus for our optional excursion.
Epidaurus was known throughout the Greek world as a healing sanctuary and it is reputed for its
theater, which is once again in use today and is still marvelled for its exceptional acoustics from
the stage to any of its 15,000 seats. Lunch onboard and afternoon at leisure to discover the
greater Nafplion area. Overnight in port.
Today, we will drive through the colorful city and the beautiful countryside of Argolis towards
another major centre of Greek civilization, Mycenae, for an optional excursion. Visit the remains
of the glorious ancient city including the Lion’s Gate, the Cyclopean walls, the Palace, the
Agamemnon Tomb and the museum following by a short guided walk in the historical center of
Nafplion. Lunch on board and sailing towards Monemvasia. Early evening arrival and time at
leisure for exploring this remarkable medieval fortified town and birthplace of one of the most
important greek poets, Giannis Ritsos, who enjoyed international reputation and radiation.
Overnight at sea to Gythion.
Morning arrival in Gythion, the ancient naval base of Spartans. Optional excursion to Mani
peninsula and Cape Tenaro, plus the spectacular Dirou Caves with their stalactites and
stalagmites. Leaving Gythion we will cross the scenic Mani Peninsula to reach Diros and visit the
spectacular cave, the entrance of which remained sealed for about 4.500 years until being
discovered around the 60s. After visiting the cave, we will drive to nearby Areopolis for a short
stroll through the town. Mani, which is at the tip of the Peloponnese, is a distinctive area and
desolate region of underground lakes and rivers, windswept landscapes and towers, which keeps
the spirit of the warriors once lived and fought here alive. Dinner onboard and late evening sailing
to Pylos. Overnight at sea
Morning arrival in Pylos, a picture-perfect seaside town of the SW Peloponnese. Sitting on the
backside of stately Navarino Bay, Pylos was site of several famous naval battles, one of which,
occurred in 1827, led to the independence of Greece, in 1829. Today, our optional excursion
takes us by bus along the coast of Western Peloponnese crossing the Messenian countryside
between Methoni and Koroni. First stop in Methoni which is a charmingly picturesque little town
with the imposing Medieval Castle being the central attraction. Next destination is Koroni, once a
Venetian naval fortress. This delightful town, clustered on a hillside, has narrow, cobbled streets
and stairways leading up to a Venetian castle protected the waterways. Visiting the old town in
the Castle we will discover little gems of architecture being well preserved. Sip your refreshment
at the colorful port and enjoy some free time before we return to the ship for lunch. Late night
sailing to Katakolon. Overnight at sea.
Early morning arrival in port of Katakolon, in Pyrgos, which in ancient times was the natural
harbour for Ancient Olympia and in the Middle Ages was the site of the so called ''Pontikokastro'',
or ''Beauvoir'' or ''Bel Vedere'' Castle. Katakolon is also known for being the birthplace of Yiannis
Latsis, the Greek shipping multi-billionaire tycoon, who's paternal home operates today as
Museum of Ancient Greek Technology as well as its historical lighthouse. Today, our optional
excursion takes us by bus to Olympia, one of the most famous and important sites in the ancient
world. Olympia is revered as the birthplace of the Olympic Games and the greatest Pan-Hellenic
sanctuary for the worship of Zeus. The most thrilling site at Olympia is the very stadium, which
looks much like it did more than 2,000 years ago. Explore the Temple of Hera, the magnificent
temple of Zeus, the Philippeion, built to honour the family of Alexander the Great, and the
Leonidion, lodging place for the athletes. We later visit the Olympia Museum, one of the most
beautiful museums in the world, hosting many astonishing exhibits. Traditional lunch in the town
of Olympia and optional visit to the museum of the History of the Olympic Games of Antiquity
(provided it is open in the afternoon). Time at leisure and depart for Itea in the Gulf of Corinth.
Overnight at sea.
Morning arrival in Itea, the second largest city of the Municipality of Delphi. Proceeding to Delphi
for our optional excursion. Unlike other archaeological sites in
Greece, Delphi is built on the side of a mountain and the panoramic views are truly inspiring.
Delphi was revered for hosting the most important oracle in the classical world and visitors from
across the Greek world travelled here to consult with the oracle. We will walk around the ruins
complex including the Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia, the Castalian Spring and the Gymnasium
and visit the adjoining museum. Return to the ship for lunch and afternoon sailing. Later in the
evening Captain’s Farewell Dinner and arrival in Corinth. Due to its rich ancient history as well as
to the presence of St. Paul the Apostle in the city, some locations all over the world have been
named Corinth. Overnight in port.
Disembarkation at 7:00 am after breakfast. Bus transfer to ATH airport (for guests flying up to
12:00 noon) and to the center of Athens -exact place t.b.a. (for guests with post cruise
arrangements). [Bus transfer service is included in the cruise fares]
Itineraries are subject to change.
22 March, 2024 to 29 March, 2024
Galileo
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LOWER DECK- 1 DOUBLE OR 2 LOWER BEDS
The Category C cabins are located on the Lower Deck and have portholes. The cabins are air-conditioned and fitted with flat-screen TVs, mini fridge, central music, internal telephone, safe deposit boxes, hair dryer & en suite bathroom with shower.
LOWER DECK - FLEXIBLE BEDDING CONFIGURATION.
The Category B cabins are located on the Lower Deck and have portholes. The cabins are air-conditioned and fitted with flat-screen TV, mini fridge, central music, internal telephone, safe deposit boxes, hair dryer & en suite bathroom with shower.
UPPER DECK - 1 DOUBLE OR 2 LOWER BEDS.
The Category A cabins are located on the Upper Deck and have large Portholes. The cabins are air-conditioned and fitted with flat-screen TV, mini fridge, central music, internal telephone, safe deposit boxes, hair dryer & en suite bathroom with shower.
29 March, 2024 to 05 April, 2024
Galileo
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|
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Book now
|
LOWER DECK- 1 DOUBLE OR 2 LOWER BEDS
The Category C cabins are located on the Lower Deck and have portholes. The cabins are air-conditioned and fitted with flat-screen TVs, mini fridge, central music, internal telephone, safe deposit boxes, hair dryer & en suite bathroom with shower.
LOWER DECK - FLEXIBLE BEDDING CONFIGURATION.
The Category B cabins are located on the Lower Deck and have portholes. The cabins are air-conditioned and fitted with flat-screen TV, mini fridge, central music, internal telephone, safe deposit boxes, hair dryer & en suite bathroom with shower.
UPPER DECK - 1 DOUBLE OR 2 LOWER BEDS.
The Category A cabins are located on the Upper Deck and have large Portholes. The cabins are air-conditioned and fitted with flat-screen TV, mini fridge, central music, internal telephone, safe deposit boxes, hair dryer & en suite bathroom with shower.
05 April, 2024 to 12 April, 2024
Galileo
|
|
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Book now
|
LOWER DECK- 1 DOUBLE OR 2 LOWER BEDS
The Category C cabins are located on the Lower Deck and have portholes. The cabins are air-conditioned and fitted with flat-screen TVs, mini fridge, central music, internal telephone, safe deposit boxes, hair dryer & en suite bathroom with shower.
LOWER DECK - FLEXIBLE BEDDING CONFIGURATION.
The Category B cabins are located on the Lower Deck and have portholes. The cabins are air-conditioned and fitted with flat-screen TV, mini fridge, central music, internal telephone, safe deposit boxes, hair dryer & en suite bathroom with shower.
UPPER DECK - 1 DOUBLE OR 2 LOWER BEDS.
The Category A cabins are located on the Upper Deck and have large Portholes. The cabins are air-conditioned and fitted with flat-screen TV, mini fridge, central music, internal telephone, safe deposit boxes, hair dryer & en suite bathroom with shower.
12 April, 2024 to 19 April, 2024
Galileo
|
|
|
Book now
|
LOWER DECK- 1 DOUBLE OR 2 LOWER BEDS
The Category C cabins are located on the Lower Deck and have portholes. The cabins are air-conditioned and fitted with flat-screen TVs, mini fridge, central music, internal telephone, safe deposit boxes, hair dryer & en suite bathroom with shower.
LOWER DECK - FLEXIBLE BEDDING CONFIGURATION.
The Category B cabins are located on the Lower Deck and have portholes. The cabins are air-conditioned and fitted with flat-screen TV, mini fridge, central music, internal telephone, safe deposit boxes, hair dryer & en suite bathroom with shower.
UPPER DECK - 1 DOUBLE OR 2 LOWER BEDS.
The Category A cabins are located on the Upper Deck and have large Portholes. The cabins are air-conditioned and fitted with flat-screen TV, mini fridge, central music, internal telephone, safe deposit boxes, hair dryer & en suite bathroom with shower.
25 October, 2024 to 01 November, 2024
Galileo
|
|
|
Book now
|
LOWER DECK- 1 DOUBLE OR 2 LOWER BEDS
The Category C cabins are located on the Lower Deck and have portholes. The cabins are air-conditioned and fitted with flat-screen TVs, mini fridge, central music, internal telephone, safe deposit boxes, hair dryer & en suite bathroom with shower.
LOWER DECK - FLEXIBLE BEDDING CONFIGURATION.
The Category B cabins are located on the Lower Deck and have portholes. The cabins are air-conditioned and fitted with flat-screen TV, mini fridge, central music, internal telephone, safe deposit boxes, hair dryer & en suite bathroom with shower.
UPPER DECK - 1 DOUBLE OR 2 LOWER BEDS.
The Category A cabins are located on the Upper Deck and have large Portholes. The cabins are air-conditioned and fitted with flat-screen TV, mini fridge, central music, internal telephone, safe deposit boxes, hair dryer & en suite bathroom with shower.
01 November, 2024 to 08 November, 2024
Galileo
|
|
|
Book now
|
LOWER DECK- 1 DOUBLE OR 2 LOWER BEDS
The Category C cabins are located on the Lower Deck and have portholes. The cabins are air-conditioned and fitted with flat-screen TVs, mini fridge, central music, internal telephone, safe deposit boxes, hair dryer & en suite bathroom with shower.
LOWER DECK - FLEXIBLE BEDDING CONFIGURATION.
The Category B cabins are located on the Lower Deck and have portholes. The cabins are air-conditioned and fitted with flat-screen TV, mini fridge, central music, internal telephone, safe deposit boxes, hair dryer & en suite bathroom with shower.
UPPER DECK - 1 DOUBLE OR 2 LOWER BEDS.
The Category A cabins are located on the Upper Deck and have large Portholes. The cabins are air-conditioned and fitted with flat-screen TV, mini fridge, central music, internal telephone, safe deposit boxes, hair dryer & en suite bathroom with shower.
08 November, 2024 to 15 November, 2024
Galileo
|
|
|
Book now
|
LOWER DECK- 1 DOUBLE OR 2 LOWER BEDS
The Category C cabins are located on the Lower Deck and have portholes. The cabins are air-conditioned and fitted with flat-screen TVs, mini fridge, central music, internal telephone, safe deposit boxes, hair dryer & en suite bathroom with shower.
LOWER DECK - FLEXIBLE BEDDING CONFIGURATION.
The Category B cabins are located on the Lower Deck and have portholes. The cabins are air-conditioned and fitted with flat-screen TV, mini fridge, central music, internal telephone, safe deposit boxes, hair dryer & en suite bathroom with shower.
UPPER DECK - 1 DOUBLE OR 2 LOWER BEDS.
The Category A cabins are located on the Upper Deck and have large Portholes. The cabins are air-conditioned and fitted with flat-screen TV, mini fridge, central music, internal telephone, safe deposit boxes, hair dryer & en suite bathroom with shower.
Additional charges:
Port Charges. From: 310 EUR pp
Inclusions
• Voyage on board in selected cabin category with private bathroom and air conditioning
• Tea, Filter coffee and drinking water available on board
• English speaking cruise excort
• Use of fishing and snorkelling equipment (subject to availability)
• Meals as per specific itinerary
Exclusions
• Port Charges/Taxes
• International and domestic Airfares
• Travel insurance
• Optional Shore Excursions
• Pre and post-voyage accommodation
• Transfers
• Wifi on board
• Beverages not listed under inclusions
• Gratuities
• Items of a personal nature including medical costs, communication charges and on board purchases