Cruising the Greek Isles

Arrive in Athens, where you are met and transferred to the Hotel Grande Bretagne for a welcome briefing and reception.

Awake in one of the world’s ancient capitals, a veritable open-air museum adorned with graceful Greek temples, proud Roman arches and ornate Byzantine churches. You might choose to begin your day exploring the majestic Parthenon and other Hellenistic ruins of the Acropolis while taking in stunning views over the Plaka Quarter, the ancient Agora and the Theater of Dionysus. Or, set out on a scenic drive through the Peloponnese to the Argolis region, pausing at the Corinth Canal, Cyclopean Walls, Lion’s Gate, Royal Tombs, Treasury of Atreus and Epidaurus’ ancient theater. Alternately, art lovers might prefer a gallery visit showcasing local contemporary artists, followed by a tour of the Benaki Museum’s Bronze Age exhibits. This evening, enjoy a festive event with live entertainment.

After a morning at leisure, you might opt to visit the world-renowned Acropolis Museum, seeing antiquities that span the Bronze, Roman and Byzantine eras. Later, head to the port of Piraeus to board your expedition vessel.

Your first port of call is Monemvasia, a walled medieval bastion perched on the cliffside of a small Peloponnese island. Coming ashore, you might opt for a closer look inside the fortified city itself, walking its narrow lanes to reveal the ruins of former Byzantine dwellings and churches, as well as the intact Church of Elkomenos Christos and its dazzling collection of iconography. Linger within the walled city or continue on to Liotrivi Mansion, a former family estate and olive oil mill that survives today as a cultural museum. Alternatively, you might opt for a day trip to the ruins of Mystras, a former Byzantine capital. After a short drive, enter Mystras through the castle gate to discover the Cathedral of Aghios Dimitrios, the Palace of the Despots and the Monastery of Pantanassa.

Your next destination is the island of Crete, former hub of the ancient Minoan maritime trading empire. Once ashore, you might opt for an exploration of the renowned Heraklion Archaeological Museum and the Minoan Palace of Knossos. Alternatively, pair your tour of the Heraklion Archaeological Museum with a hands-on culinary experience at a local hilltop farm. Or, visit the Historical Museum of Crete, walk amid Heraklion’s living history and embark on a scenic drive through the island.

Today, explore Santorini, the jewel of the small volcanic archipelago known as the Cyclades. Here, you might choose to visit the Bronze Age settlement of Akrotiri, its houses, streets, squares and workshops all preserved in volcanic pumice. Alternatively, opt for a hike up the crater of Nea Kameni, followed by a dip in the thermal springs of nearby Palea Kameni. Or, embark on a scenic drive through the hills, pausing for a tour and tasting at a local winery. Later, enjoy an afternoon at leisure in the towns of Oia or Fira.

Discover Rhodes, the largest of the Dodecanese islands. Once ashore, you might choose a guided walk of the Old Town’s medieval fortifications, the Grand Master’s Palace, the Avenue of the Knights and the Archaeological Museum. For a more active experience, head toward the ancient Doric town of Lindos for a hike to its acropolis, taking in the temple of Athena Lindia and the Byzantine church along the way. Or, watch the artists of a local ceramics workshop ply their skill before attempting your own piece. Alternately, visit the Grand Master’s Palace and take a walking tour of Rhodes’ Old Town before transferring to a rustic restaurant for a hands-on cooking experience.

Today, explore Delos, a small uninhabited island that legend holds as the birthplace of Artemis and Apollo. Discover the island’s remarkably preserved ruins, including government buildings, homes, a cistern and an amphitheater. Alternatively, stay in Mykonos for a walk along its narrow streets. Or, choose a panoramic drive through the island, pausing to take in its sun-drenched beaches, the quaint village of Ano Mera and its Monastery of Panagia Tourliani.

Uncover the hidden gem of Patmos, one of the smaller islands of the Dodecanese. Here, you might stroll through the hilltop village of Chora, visiting the House of Simandris and the historical Nikolaidis mansion. Alternately, visit the Monastery of St. John and the quaint village of Chora. For a more active experience, opt for a hike to the hermitage of Zaroi and a secluded beach.

Arrive in Piraeus and disembark your vessel after breakfast. Then, transfer to the Athens airport and board your return flight home, or join our Northern Greece Post-Tour Extension.