If you like to immerse yourself in the timeless landscapes of Biblical times and ancient history, there’s nothing quite as satisfying as a Mediterranean cruise. I mean, Roman Empire, Greek Empire, Ottoman Empire… where else would you get this many empires in 7 days? I probably missed a couple out.
Sail through past worlds scattered across the sparkling blue Mediterranean Sea on this LuxuryEscapes seven-night cruise around Greece and Turkiye aboard the Azamara Journey, your lavish hotel at sea.
This ultimate Greek odyssey (ahem, wasn’t that Homer’s?) begins on 30 August 2024, with one serene night spent at the Grand Hyatt Athens prior to embarking on your cruise. It will be serene in the surrounding streets too as the Athenians leave their city to tourists in August believing it too hot. To most Australians it’s pleasantly warm. If you’re from the Tropical North, pack a jacket or cardie.
Hop from isle to isle and discover rich Grecian history, natural marvels and dynamic culture. From the ancient wonders of Athens to volcanic landscapes on Santorini and hidden treasures in Rhodes, plus the archaeological marvels of Ephesus, Turkiye.
You’ll have to stump up for a tour of Ephesus, (it’s not included) but for fabulously intact (and curated) Roman ruins it’s a must see. You can imagine the locals, in togas and sandals, reading their letter from the Apostle Paul. Also, you’ll find yourself wondering how the Romans designed such great plumbing.
As you cruise, make use of the world-class restaurants, swimming pool, spa, enrichment programs and Broadway-style entertainment aboard Azamara Journey. Plus, enjoy all-inclusive dining, drinks and five-star service. Once your cruise ends, wrap things up with a final evening in comfort at the Grand Hyatt Athens, reflecting upon your voyage.
Highlights include
Day 1: Athens, Greece. Check in at the Grand Hyatt Athens for some rest and relaxation before your journey begins.
Day 2: Athens. In a single day, you can easily climb the hill of the Acropolis, wonder at the Parthenon, and then board the Azamara Journey, departing from the Port of Piraeus at 6pm.
Day 3: Santorini. Cobalt-domed churches, fascinating history and island-fresh fare await as you sail into breathtaking Santorini, it’s every bit as spectacular as you imagined.
Day 4: Agios Nikolaos. Known for its stunning coastal views, it poses a unique blend between quaint fishing village and stylish resort town.
Day 5: Rhodes. Offering an enduring blend of architecture that is guaranteed to delight including the ruins of the sun god Helios known as ‘The Colossus of Rhodes’.
Day 6: Kusadasi, Turkiye. A gorgeous habour, Kusadasi, is gateway to the World Heritage-listed ruins of Ephesus. Join an excursion at your own expense and travel inland to immerse yourself in this former Greek banking and trading centre as you uncover sites such as the Great Theatre, the Temple of Hadrian, and the Temple of Artemis, another of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Day 7: Kusadasi, Turkiye – Samos, Greece. Sail between countries to Samos known both for its ancient philosophical society and sweet Muscat wine. Many historical heavyweight sites for a Rover to rove around.
Day 8: Mykonos. Arrive at Mykonos, the ‘Island of the Winds’, which most of us know as the party island of the Med, where in ancient times (the 80s) island hoppers would arrive and forget to leave.
Day 9: Athens. Arrive back in beautiful Athens at 6am check into your stylish room at the Grand Hyatt Athens. Mild Rover’s tip is jump in a cab for the 3 minute ride to Plaka, with its village feel, narrow cobbled streets of small shops, al fresco cafes and tavernas, it’s a little bit Rives Gauche, a little bit Mamma Mia, a lot of fun.
Day 10: Athens. Time to check out and head for home or the next stop on your Odyssey.
For all the inclusions, details and pricing check out the LuxuryEscapes website by CLICKING HERE
