7 Day Greek Islands Cruise

Day 1: Wednesday – Arrive in Athens

Arrive in Athens, the classical capital of Greece; transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure to discover the ancient wonders of this city known as the “Cradle of Western Civilization” and the birthplace of democracy.

🏚️ Hotel Option: The Stanley Hotel or similar.

Day 2: Thursday – Athens City Tour with Acropolis & Acropolis Museum (B)

The exploration of Athens begins with a panoramic drive through the city center. View the Panathenaic Stadium and the ruins of the Temple of Zeus and Hadrian’s Arch, built to celebrate the arrival of the Roman Emperor Hadrian. Continue on to visit the Acropolis, the ancient architectural masterpiece built during the Golden Age of Athens, and the new Acropolis Museum, a striking modern building built at the base of the monument where many of the original statues from the Acropolis are now displayed. The rest of the day is at leisure. Be sure to walk to Constitution Square, where you might catch a glimpse of the colorfully costumed Evzone guards, outfitted in the traditional Greek style. Tonight, perhaps walk through the lively Plaka area, the oldest section of Athens, a neighborhood of charming restaurants, shops, and sidewalk cafes.

🏚️ Hotel Option: The Stanley Hotel or similar.

Day 3: Friday – Cruise Embarkation, Arrive in Mykonos (B, L, D)

Private transfer to the Port of Piraeus for embarkation. Set sail at 11:30 am, and sit back as you take in the spectacular scenery of the beautiful turquoise waters of the Aegean. Arrive at 6:00 pm in the ultra-popular and chic jet-set island of Mykonos with its whitewashed houses, iconic windmills, and sophisticated town with trendy cafes and boutiques. Find a table at a harbor side taverna and gaze at the bustle of Cycladic island life and the gorgeous views. Perhaps visit one of the island’s popular bars before returning to the ship departing at 11:00 pm for Kusadasi, Turkey.

🏚️ Hotel Option Cruiseship (Inside Cabin)

Day 4: Saturday – Arrive in Kusadasi (Ephesus), Evening in Patmos (B, L, D)

Today, arrive at 7:30 am in Kusadasi, Turkey. This splendid city is renowned for its significant historical and religious sites, including ancient Ephesus, one of the most exquisite cities in antiquity. Tour the magnificent archaeological site of Ephesus, home to the Library of Celsus and Fountain of Trajan. Enjoy free time in Kusadasi before returning to the ship in time for lunch. At 5:45 pm, arrive in Patmos. This small island is steeped with an intense spiritual character, which inspired St. John the Divine to write the Book of Apocalypse. A large monastery in his name dominates the landscape above Chora, the island’s capital, surrounded by strong fortress-like walls. Follow the picturesque narrow lanes in the port of Skála and discover cafés, shops and bakeries selling traditional honey and nut pastries. Time to linger until sailing at 9:30 pm to Crete.

🏚️ Hotel Option Cruiseship (Inside Cabin)

Day 5: Sunday – Arrive in Crete, Evening in Santorini (B, L, D)

At 7:00 am, arrive in Crete, the largest of the Greek Islands. Crete’s remarkable history is highlighted by the ruins of the great Palace of Knossos, the ceremonial and political center of the ancient Minoan
civilization, and the residence of the mythical King Minos. Explore the palace ruins, including the Throne Room, the fresco of the “Prince of the Lilies”, and the Queen’s Megaron in the east. At 12:00 pm, enjoy a leisurely lunch on board as the ship sets sail. At 4:30 pm, cruise into Santorini’s caldera as you marvel at the sapphire blue water, snow-white architecture, and multicolored cliffs that characterize this enchanting getaway. The streets of bustling Fira, the island’s capital city, are a vision of pristine whitewashed buildings. Relax at a cliff-side café or wander the narrow footpaths before the ship sails towards Athens at 9:30 pm.

🏚️ Hotel Option Cruiseship (Inside Cabin)

Day 6: Monday – Disembark Cruise & Overnight in Athens (B)

Disembark at 7:00 am. Meet your driver at the Port of Piraeus and enjoy a panoramic drive as you transfer to your hotel to check in.

🏚️ Hotel Option: The Stanley Hotel or similar.

Day 7:  Tuesday – Athens Departure (B)

After breakfast transfer to Athens Airport for your departure flight back home.