Athens and Isles Explorer Cruise Plus

Upon arrival in Greece’s capital city of Athens today you will be met by our company representative and transferred to your hotel. 
Overnight in Athens

After early morning breakfast, begin your half-day city tour of Athens. Start your tour with a visit to the Panathenaic Stadium where the first Olympic Games of modern times were held in 1896. Continue your journey driving past the Prime Minister's Residence (ex Royal Palace) guarded by the Euzones in their colorful uniforms, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Hadrian's Arch, the Parliament, and the memorial to the Unknown Soldier, the Academy, the University, the National Library, and the Constitution Square (Syntagma). Your tour will continue to the Acropolis where you will see the architectural masterpieces of the Golden Age of Athens: discover The Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion, and finally, "the harmony between material and spirit", the monument that "puts an order in the mind", the Parthenon. Visit the place where the statues found their home and admire the wonders of the classical era in The New Acropolis Museum (due to certain restrictions for the visiting hours of the new Acropolis Museum, the order of the program can be changed). Return to your hotel by lunchtime. Enjoy the rest of the afternoon to relax or go out and explore the city on your own.

Overnight in Athens

Enjoy your breakfast at a leisurely pace. Spend the rest of the day at leisure. You may simply relax or opt for an optional tour.

Overnight in Athens

Enjoy your morning at leisure before being transferred later in the day to the Lavrion port of Athens to embark on a 5-day cruise to the Greek Islands and Turkey. The island, according to Greek mythology, was formed by the bodies of giants slain by Hercules. The most recognizable site on Mykonos is the row of immaculate picture postcard white windmills overlooking the water. Every visitor takes that picture. The Old Town has many delightful cafes and tavernas along its winding alleys and time will pass very quickly in these lovely, relaxing surroundings.

Overnight on board

This tour encompasses the best of Mykonos outside its main city. Drive around the island to get a glimpse into its beaches such as Ornos (one of the most family-friendly on the island), St Anna (protected by two hills called Aphrodite's breasts}, and Kalafatis (a paradise for water sports and windsurfing). Stop briefly at each of these natural splendors for photos. Leave the seashore and drive inland to Ano Mera, a village that remains one of the rare unspoiled parts of the island. Home to the Panagia Tourliani Monastery from the 16th century, the village unfolds around its impressive bell tower and marble fountain. Coming back to Chora go for a short stop to Panagia Paraportiani­, the iconic 15th-century Byzantine church. Conclude your bus tour at the picturesque Little Venice -- the perfect spot for a cocktail on the sea.    

This popular walking excursion brings you up close to the charm of Mykonos Town, or Chora, where captivating sights, sounds, and flavors create one of the world’s most beloved destinations. Stroll through narrow cobbled lanes lined with stylish boutiques, whitewashed houses, and elegant cafés before reaching Kastro, home to the iconic Paraportiani Church. You may visit either the Folklore Museum, set in a traditional two-storey captain’s house displaying period costumes, furnishings, jewellery, and textiles, or the Aegean Maritime Museum, once the residence of the famed merchant captain Nikolaos Sourmelis, showcasing ship models, historic documents, rare maps, navigational instruments, and maritime artefacts. Continue to Alefkhandra, known as Little Venice, where 18th-century merchant homes with wooden balconies sit dramatically over the water, and admire the famous windmills, the enduring symbol of Mykonos. The tour concludes at a local taverna, where you savor traditional food and drinks while soaking in the authentic spirit of Greece.

Wake up this morning in the beach resort town of Kusadasi. Vibrant and colorful, Kusadasi in Turkey is the gateway to the Hellenistic ruins of Ephesus, famed for the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Our next port of call is Patmos, a small and charming island a little over 20 square kilometers in size and lying in the Dodecanese. It is most famous for being where the Book of Revelations was written, and the location of John the Baptist’s vision, which is detailed in the text.

Overnight on board

One of the largest open-air museums in the world, the ancient city of Ephesus is home to impressive architectural treasures from the Greek, Roman and Hellenistic periods. Join a half-day tour to delve back through the centuries, visit the House of the Virgin Mary and shop for souvenirs in the sprawling Kusadasi bazaar. You'll travel into the olive grove hills around Kusadasi to the House of the Virgin Mary, an important pilgrimage site where the Virgin Mary lived the last few years of her life. Then on to the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the most incredible open-air archaeological sites and museums in the world. Admire ancient relics such as the Library of Celsus, the Odeon, marble-paved streets, baths, the Magnesia Gate and the Great Theater amongst many others. Enjoy unravelling the layers of history before returning to the bustling seaside city of Kusadasi. You will also have the opportunity to bargain and shop local merchandise such as carpets, leather goods, souvenirs, etc

Every step we take in Ancient Ephesus brings us closer to the Hellenistic, Roman and early Christian eras. We will enjoy a truly exceptional experience in one of the most important and complete classical cities in Europe, even though only a fraction of it has been uncovered. We pass through the Magnesian Gate and wander through the Agora, Odeon, the magnificent and restored Library of Celsus, the marble-paved Main Street of Curetes, Baths of Scholastica, The Great Theatre, Trajan’s Fountain, the Houses of the Patricians, Prytaneum and the Temple of Hadrian. Opposite Hadrian’s Temple, at the foot of the Bulbul Hill and the covered part of the archaeological site, protected from the heat and natural elements, lie the Houses of Koressus or Terrace Houses. It was here that the wealthy families of Ancient Ephesus lived. These villas are excellently preserved, especially the interior decor. The oldest houses so far unearthed date from the 1st Century BC, were built on two storeys and even had hot and cold water and a heating system, clay pipes under the floor. They were even constructed to a city plan in which roads intersected with each other at right angles. Ephesus, which became the second largest city in the Roman Empire, was dedicated to the goddess Artemis and the magnificent temple built to honour her took 120 years to complete. It is one of six of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World that have long gone.

A world of water-filled adventure awaits at Adaland, offering an exciting contrast to our more relaxed tours. Perfect for thrill-seekers, this adrenaline-packed experience takes place at Turkey’s largest themed water park and one of the biggest and most popular in Europe. Spread across 10,000 square metres, the park features an impressive mix of slides, wave pools, waterfalls, and attractions designed for all ages. For those chasing excitement, the park’s signature rides—such as the Screamer, Black Thunder, and Anaconda—deliver heart-pounding thrills. If you prefer a slower pace, unwind on the 300-metre lazy river or enjoy gentle boat rides. Younger guests can have fun on Treasure Island, sliding through the Pirate Tunnel or testing their balance on the Lily-Pad Raft Walk. With over 20 family-friendly rides, plus dedicated children’s areas, pools, slides, a jacuzzi pool, wave pool, and activity pool, Adaland offers endless fun and entertainment for everyone.

Enjoy breakfast before exploring Rhodes, His remains are nowhere to be seen, of course, but the Colossus of Rhodes once bestrode the harbor which gives us another link to the Seven Wonders. Lose yourself in the maze of atmospheric cobbled streets of the Old Town (a World Heritage Site) that will transport you back to the Byzantine Empire and be sure to wander through the Knights Quarter and the Palace of the Grand Master. Indeed, Rhodes is also known as the Island of the Knights. Our itinerary allows us a whole day here which gives us plenty of opportunity to discover the clear waters, wonderful beaches, and lush wooded valleys.

Overnight on board 

This excursion takes you to the small yet captivating island of Patmos, rich in biblical and mythological heritage. Located in the northern Dodecanese of the Aegean, Patmos has long been a revered pilgrimage site, as it is mentioned in the Book of Revelation, where St. John the Evangelist is believed to have received his divine vision from Jesus. You will visit the sacred Cave (Grotto) of the Apocalypse, see the cross said to have been engraved by St. John, and view the triple fissure in the rock where he is believed to have heard God’s message. Explore the impressive Monastery of St. John, founded in 1088 by St. Christodoulos, and wander through its courtyard and old bakery. Admire the exquisite Byzantine Church of St. John, featuring a beautifully carved wooden icon screen and significant frescoes, before visiting the museum that houses priceless manuscripts, medieval textiles, and religious treasures. According to Greek mythology, Patmos once lay beneath the sea until Zeus allowed it to rise, after which it was settled and named Letois in honor of the goddess Artemis.

The enchanting island of Patmos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, welcomes you with rich history and striking landscapes. Your panoramic tour begins at the port of Skala and proceeds to Chora, the island’s capital. Here, you will see the Monastery of St. John the Evangelist and visit the sacred Grotto of the Apocalypse, where, according to the Bible, John received the Revelation from Jesus—recorded in the final book of the New Testament. A renowned pilgrimage destination, Patmos draws visitors from around the world each year. In Chora’s heart, traditional windmills stand watch over the town. The journey continues through the island’s rugged Dodecanese scenery, where rocky hills, barren terrain, and dramatic promontories shape a coastline dotted with secluded coves and bays. Legend says the island once lay beneath the sea until Zeus allowed it to rise from the waters. The tour concludes back in Skala, where you can relax with coffee or refreshments at the charming Café Arion.

Our Greek Odyssey reveals a profound spiritual side, especially in Patmos, a revered Christian pilgrimage island in the Dodecanese. Visit the sacred Cave of the Apocalypse, where St. John is believed to have received the visions of Revelation, and admire the 11th-century Monastery of St. John overlooking Hora. Explore the historic 1625 Simandiri Mansion, a beautifully preserved folklore museum hosted by an eighth-generation descendant, showcasing handmade embroideries, antique furnishings, rare icons, and centuries of island heritage. A true cultural treasure, it offers a captivating glimpse into Patmos’ rich spiritual and architectural legacy.

From one evocative island to another. Crete is Greece’s largest island and the fifth largest in the Mediterranean, a place of myths and legends. There will be the opportunity to visit the capital Heraklion and absorb some of its extraordinary history. We then enjoy an evening in incomparable Santorini where you may get the chance to see the blue domed church at Oia. There will also be time for a wonderful, traditional meal at one of the many cliffside restaurants.

Overnight on board

The ancient city of Knossos, one of the most famous archaeological sites in the whole of Aegean, provides a fascinating insight into the sophisticated Minoan civilization. Venture into the incredible open-air museum of the Palace of Knossos, travel along with the proud Venetian heritage of Heraklion - the Koules Fortress (the stronghold overlooking the Heraklion harbor), the Venetian Loggia (the 17th century administrative and social center), the harmonious Morozini fountain and the 10th century Church of St. Titus. As you explore the Palace of Knossos, considered Europe's oldest city, you are entering and experiencing the incredible world of the legendary Minoan civilization. The long and winding roads of Crete's ancient city gradually expose the remarkable art, architecture and daily life of the Minoan people. Breathe in the millennia of history and imagine the legends of Daedalus, Theseus and the Minotaur come to life in the remarkable Hall of the Royal Guard and the Double Axes, the King's Chamber or the Queen's Apartment. Enjoy free time to savour the beauty and uniqueness of Crete's largest city (and the fourth largest in Greece). The city is brimming with an assortment of museums that satisfy every taste- entre, full of busy cafes and elegant shops or retrace the steps of its Venetian rulers at the impressive fortified port, the vast arches and the arsenals.

This half day boat tour takes you on a unique journey around one of the most photographed landscapes in the world - the island of Santorini. This intimate boat tour will allow you to discover this incredibly romantic island from a unique perspective, getting up close and personal with Santorini's coarse volcanic silhouette. We will pass by Palea and Nea Kameni, two uninhabited and wholly volcanic islands in the Santorini complex. These islands, made of black lava, present an astonishing landscape, violently moulded by the powerful volcanic eruption of circa 1600 BC which created Santorini's current scenery. The famous Santorini volcano crater is found on Nea Kameni, and a brief walk takes the curious visitor to the edge of the still active crater. The raw power, visible among the rugged landscape, is exceptionally impressive and will fill you with a rush of adrenaline as you peer into its seemingly bottomless darkness. End your tour of Santorini with a visit to Palea Kameni's hot springs, where the healing waters can reach up to 35 degrees celsius.Here you will have a chance to swim to the springs.

This half-day tour begins unusually, with what you won’t see in Rhodes. One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World once proudly stood here. He was the Colossus of Rhodes and is of course long departed, probably destroyed by an earthquake. Nevertheless, as you arrive on this wonderful, historic island, you may just be able to imagine this statue of the Greek sun-God Helios in 280BC, standing 100 feet tall in celebration of Rhodes’ victory over Cyprus. The largest of the Dodecanese islands, Rhodes has a compelling back story and there are still remnants of its occupation by the Knights of St John during the Crusades. So, while the Colossus may not be there, you will be wowed by the many historical sites. We travel first to Lindos, about 55km from Rhodes Town and high above the village sits the impressive Acropolis of Lindos with the Doric Temple of Athena, built in 300 BC. Captains’ mansions constructed between the 16^th and 18th centuries are dotted here and there and in the heart of Lindos is the Church of the Virgin Mary with lovely frescoes from the 15th Century. Back in Rhodes is where we are really immersed in the history of the island in the Knights’ Quarter. We stroll through Gate d’Amboise to walk along the Street of the Knights and see where they lived, separated according to Order, their crests still visible today. We will also see (outside) the imposing Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes, a medieval castle also known as the Kastello. It’s one of the few examples of Gothic architecture in Greece. The Byzantine citadel was built in the 7th Century, the palace itself in the fourteenth. Where the palace sits today could well have been the spot where the Colossus once stood, according to recent studies. Either way, this tour takes us into the heart of the fascinating history of Rhodes.

After breakfast on board, disembark in Athens from 7:00am onwards. You will be transferred directly to Athens International Airport for your onward flight.