Ancient Greek History Cruise-Tour

Your Signature Cruise Tour begins with your arrival at Athens International Airport. Our driver will welcome you to the city and provide a private transfer to your hotel. You’ll have the remainder of the day to enjoy at your leisure, whether you prefer to rest up for the fun ahead or enjoy some of the delights nearby. There are many rooftop bars for enjoying a glass of wine with a view of the Acropolis, just an easy walk away or try a strong Greek coffee at one of the sidewalk cafes if you’re in need of energy for exploring.

A private half-day guided tour brings you to some of the most iconic landmarks in Athens. Visit Acropolis hill, topped by the Parthenon, Temple of Athena Nike, Propylaea, and multiple other monuments that have stood here overlooking the city for over 2,500 years. Your expert guide will reveal the storied past behind them before bringing you to the Acropolis Museum at its base, widely regarded as one of the world’s best institutions. Afterward, take a private transfer to the port of Lavrio where your ship awaits. A signature cocktail at check-in begins your cruise, with Hydra Island the first stop and a welcome dinner served on board.

Look forward to your first swim stop of the cruise en route to the Peloponnese. Lunch will be served on the ship as we continue to Monemvasia. An incredible sight, the walled castle town was carved out of the backside of a huge rock that rises out of the sea during medieval times. Stroll the cobblestone alleyways that are lined with magnificent centuries-old mansions that now serve as shops, eateries, and boutique hotels. An optional excursion can bring you to Hagia Sofia church which sits at its highest point providing an awe-inspiring view of the sea.

We’ll reach Laconia’s southern coast early this morning to visit the UNESCO-listed site of Pavlopetri, the world’s oldest sunken city, dating back some 5,000 years. You may be able to snorkel or dive to witness the prehistoric town with many streets, squares, and buildings. Just across from Pavlopetri is Elafonisos Island. You can swim in the brilliant aquamarine waters to reach its beautiful sand dunes or hop in a tender and enjoy the ride. You’ll have time to soak up its beauty before heading back on board. As we cruise toward Katakolon, you’ll enjoy both lunch and dinner on the ship.

Arriving at Katakolon’s port early, from here we can easily reach ancient Olympia for an optional tour. This is the site where the Olympic Games first began and at the Temple of Hera, the flame is still lit the same way as it has for centuries, with the rays of the sun. Follow your guide through the ruins and into the museum that holds findings from the site. Continuing to Zakynthos Island, we’ll stop for activities like a swim off Vasilikos beach, a visit to authentic villages, or a horseback ride. You’ll have time to explore Zante Town before enjoying dinner on the ship.

Navagio Beach is the top attraction on Zakynthos, more often called Shipwreck Beach as the white sands lying in a dazzling cove is home to a crumbling wreck. The water is a jaw-dropping shade of powder blue and you’ll have the opportunity to leap in from the ship’s swim platform for a refreshing dip. Or you can access the soft sandy beach for a closer look at the old ship by tender. Next, we’ll depart for tiny Ithaca Island, home of Ulysses, the legendary hero of Homer. Lush and green, it’s known for its serene atmosphere and charming villages, a joy to stroll around.

Get to know Ithaca better with one of two optional tours this morning. You might visit Kathara Monastery, the island’s main site dating back to the late 17th century and boasting gorgeous views from high on a mountaintop. Or explore the Archaeological Collection of Stavros which displays interesting finds from northern Ithaca and the surrounding region. This afternoon brings us to Gidaki beach, one of the most magnificent in the Ioanians with translucent ultramarine water. After spending time here dinner will be served on board with the cruise continuing to Itea, sailing overnight as you sleep in your comfortable cabin.

As your cruise comes to a conclusion, your last day brings you to the ancient sanctuary of Delphi at the base of Parnassus. The most important oracle from ancient Greece, you’ll learn about its history as you explore the site. The final stop will be at the port of Galaxidi on the southern tip of the mainland. It was home to some of the most important shipping families in Greece, something that’s revealed today in the well-preserved neoclassical buildings. After our visit, we’ll soon cross the Corinth Canal where you can toast to the journey with a cocktail before joining our Farewell Dinner.

We return to the port of Lavrio early this morning. Enjoy breakfast and goodbyes to the captain, crew, and new friends with disembarkation at 10 am. The next part of your adventure is a 2-day tour that will bring you to the remarkable monasteries of Meteora. Stop at the world-famous Thermopylae, the site of the 480 BC battle between the Greek and Persian forces. This afternoon you’ll take a half-day sunset tour that includes a visit to one of Meteora’s still active monasteries and the Byzantine Church of Virgin Mary before marveling at a stunning sunset from high upon the massive rock formations.

You’ll have a full morning to explore Meteora, with two different options available, a vehicle tour that will bring you to three monasteries with a one-hour guided tour in one, avoiding the trek on foot. Or, visit by taking the hiking tour which includes a three-hour hike and a one-hour guided tour in one of the monasteries. The latter is arguably the best way to experience this UNESCO World Heritage Site, bringing epic views along the way while learning about the thousands of years of history behind Meteora from your expert guide. Afterward, head back to Athens, with a transfer provided to your hotel.

Enjoy your final day in Athens experiencing what you’re most interested in. If it’s history and archaeology, visit the National Archaeological Museum. The country’s largest institution of its kind provides a fascinating, comprehensive look at Greek civilization from prehistory through late antiquity. The Antikythira Device, a 2,000-year-old computer, reveals how advanced ancient Greeks really were. For a view over the capital, one of the best can be enjoyed with a ride on the funicular train up Mount Lycabettus which sits nearly 750 above the city. Of course, you’ll find many rooftop bars and eateries for dining with a memorable view of the Acropolis.

The most challenging part of your tour has arrived as it’s time for departure. You’ll be met by your driver for a private transfer to the airport where you can catch your flight home or head elsewhere if you’ve decided to continue your travels. Whatever your plans, we wish you a safe journey with many memories and photos to take with you.