The Tide of Time: Dubrovnik to Athens Cruise

Experience a ‘Your Choice’ adventure before boarding the ship. If you prefer a morning excursion, you’ll have ample time to explore Dubrovnik until mid-afternoon. A convenient transfer from your hotel to the port will be arranged, making your embarkation smooth and effortless. Once aboard, you’ll have time to settle into your cabin before essential safety briefings. Later in the evening, join for a welcome drink with the crew and the guide team, followed by dinner as you set sail across the Adriatic.

This stunning walled city boasts a history spanning over a millennium. Founded in the 7th century, Dubrovnik thrived as the Republic of Ragusa, a prominent maritime power. Its strategic location encouraged trade across the Mediterranean, with the associated wealth shaping its unique blend of architecture and culture. Throughout its history, Dubrovnik faced periods of prosperity and challenges, including conflicts with rival states and invasions. The city’s formidable defensive walls, begun in the 9th century and expanded in the 14th and 15th centuries, symbolize its strategic significance.

In modern times, Dubrovnik gained global recognition as a filming location for motion pictures such as “Game of Thrones,” where its ancient walls and historic streets provided the backdrop for King’s Landing. Today, Dubrovnik’s well-preserved medieval architecture, including churches, monasteries and palaces, continues to attract visitors seeking to explore its rich heritage and cinematic allure along the scenic Adriatic coast.

You can choose from a selection of morning and full-day shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). The morning Locally Guided Walking Tour of Dubrovnik & its City Walls experience historical buildings and landmarks, shops, cafes, and panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and the terracotta rooftops below. Choose the morning Walking Dubrovnik & St Vicenzo Dominican Monastery Herbal Gardens tour for highlights of the Old Town before a trip out to the lush valley of Zupa Dubrovacka, to discover the St Vicenzo Dominican Monastery and taste its unique products. The full-day Oysters, Olives & the Ancient Walled City of Ston excursion explores Europe’s longest ancient walls, a family-run olive oil mill dating back 260 years, and an oyster farm in Mali Ston Bay (complete with a tasting).

With over 2,700 hours of sunshine annually, Hvar is a prime destination for sun-seekers. Unlike many islands on the Croatian Adriatic coast, it boasts a large coastal plain and freshwater springs, which contribute to its lush landscapes and hillsides adorned with pine forests, vineyards, olive groves, fruit orchards and lavender fields. Steeped in history, Hvar’s architecture reflects its rich past, from ancient Greek settlements to Venetian-era buildings. The island also bears marks of Napoleonic influence, with the French ruler’s occupation leading to the construction of roads and fortifications that still stand today. With pristine beaches, a vibrant cafe lifestyle, and scenic, agriculturally rich countryside, Hvar offers a broad spectrum of ‘Your Choice’ experiences. Tender ashore this morning to the old town of Hvar, where you Hvar journey begins.

You can choose from a selection of morning and full-day shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). In the morning, Walk Hvar with a Klapa Concert for a locally guided town tour including monasteries, the Spanish Fortress and a performance of UNESCO-recognized traditional Croatian music at St Stephen’s Cathedral. Also in the morning, the Village of Jelsa & Winery Visit offers a locally guided walking tour of the former fishing hub, followed by a visit to the family-owned Duboković Winery to learn about traditional winemaking and sample a few wines alongside traditional Dalmatian snacks. The final morning option is to visit a Visit a Family Lavender Estate in the UNESCO-Listed Stari Grad Plain, to experience an agricultural landscape cultivated since ancient Greek times alongside a local expert, complete with brunch and fresh drinks. Or opt for a full-day excursion: The Walking Tour of Jelsa & Hvar Town, and Traditional Lunch at a Family Farm offers guided or free time in Jelsa, then time at the inland Kod Kucera family farm for a tour and traditional lunch, followed by a locally guided tour of Hvar.

Anchor off the island of Korčula this morning, and tender to shore. The ‘Your Choice’ experiences fill your morning, with your afternoon free to relax on board, or return to town for a self-exploration.

At Roughly 30 miles (46km) long and just over 4 miles (7km) wide, Korčula is one of Croatia’s smaller islands, yet its population of 15,000 makes it the country’s second most populous. Often referred to as ‘Little Dubrovnik’ for its medieval squares, churches and palaces, Korčula is steeped in Venetian architectural influence, a legacy of the stonemasons who flocked here during the Venetian era. The island is covered in dense woods and lush Mediterranean shrub, its coastline hiding many pristine bays and coves, whose numerous small villages produce olive oils, liquors and some of the best white wines in Croatia; notably Grk and Pošip, which can only be enjoyed locally.

Korčula’s most notable claim to fame is being the birthplace of the indomitable explorer Marco Polo, with his legacy celebrated through place names and a dedicated museum. Cultural traditions thrive here, especially the Moreska sword dance, a captivating 16th-century performance, and Klapa, a popular form of cappella singing. With its blend of Adriatic charm and cultural heritage, Korčula offers a unique glimpse into the heart of Dalmatian life, making it a top destination for travelers to Croatia.

You can choose from a selection of morning shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). Walk Old Korčula Town with a local guide for the Old Town, Cathedral of St Mark, Bishop’s Palace and Church of All Saints. Or opt for Rural Korčula and Boutique Wine Tasting for a scenic drive to Tasovac Winery and Toreta Winery for tastings and a glimpse of old agricultural tools used for generations. Choose A Taste of Korčula for a walking tour of Old Town followed by a visit to organic farm and distillery OPG Komparak, with tastings of honey, olive oil, marmalade and the award-winning Trut gin.

Sail south late afternoon with your eyes set on the emerging travel destination of Kotor.

In the early morning, cruise the fjord system leading to the bayside city of Kotor. Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor boasts stunning steep cliffs descending to a narrow inlet of the Adriatic Sea. Unlike true fjords shaped by glaciers, this bay is a ria—formed when rising sea levels submerged an ancient river valley. Characterized by its branching outline and large estuary, a ria like the Bay of Kotor offers exceptional natural harbor conditions. The bay’s unique bay-within-a-bay configuration, featuring the 985-foot-wide (300m) Verige Strait, adds to its striking beauty.

The ship’s tenders transfer you ashore from your point at anchor in the Fjord to Kotor, where you’ll find a selection of experiences. The boutique Balkan country of Montenegro, famed for its rugged mountains and stunning Adriatic coastline, is home to one of the region’s most enchanting destinations: Kotor. This historical town is packed with medieval charm. Surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and clear waters, the bay itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The people of Kotor and Montenegro are known for their warm hospitality and deep connection to their land and traditions. Montenegrins take considerable pride in their history and cultural heritage, which is reflected in their vibrant festivals, local cuisine and traditional music. The city’s history, coupled with the stunning landscapes of the fjord and the genuine warmth of its people, makes Kotor a highlight of any voyage.

You can choose from a selection of morning shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). On the Vistas of Kotor tour, take a guided walk through the Old Town, taking in its medieval architecture and St Tryphon Cathedral, then take a cable car for stunning views. For an active option, Hike the Ancient City Walls, starting with a walking tour of the Old Town before hiking up to and down from St John’s Fortress for excellent views.

On A Taste of Kotor locally guided food and wine tour, visit the Old Town and then sample local specialties at the market, topped off with the option to enjoy a Montenegrin wine, beer, or grappa. The Boka Bays’ Waterfront Wonders tour offers a scenic speedboat cruise to waterfront villages, church-studded islands and the intriguing Submarine Tunnels. Or choose the Regal Legends & Rural Treasures tour to follow the route Irish playwright George Bernard Shaw dubbed “one of the most beautiful in the world.” Savor smoked ham, local cheese, honey and wine in the village of Njeguši, tour the residence of the last Montenegrin ruler in Cetinje, then return to Kotor for free time in town.

Sailing south, leave Montenegro and enter the former communist nation of Albania. Located in the south of the Balkan Peninsula, it boasts a rich history and a burgeoning present-day persona. From ancient Illyrian settlements to Roman and Ottoman rule, Albania’s past is reflected in its historical sites, which are among the most notable in Europe. After decades of communist rule, Albania embraced democracy in the early 1990s but faced challenges with political instability and corruption.

Today, the nation is undergoing a transformation, embracing democracy and economic reforms after years of isolation. Efforts to strengthen institutions and align with European Union standards are ongoing, offering travellers the opportunity to visit this fascinating country without the crowds. With a stunning coastline along the Adriatic and Ionian Seas, rugged mountains, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Albania sits at the crossroads of tourism. Visiting it now allows one to experience its unspoiled beauty and genuine hospitality before it gains wider touristic recognition.

Sitting with pride on Albania’s northern coast, Durrës stands as a testament to its millennia-old history. Originally founded as Epidamnos by the Ancient Greeks in 627 BCE, Durrës boasts a rich mix of Greek, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman influences. Its imposing Roman amphitheater, dating back to the 2nd century AD, is among the largest in the Balkans and can hold up to 20,000 spectators. Another highlight is the iconic Venetian Tower, built in the 15th century, which punctuates its skyline and reflects its diverse architectural heritage. Durrës was also a vital hub during the Byzantine period, serving as a key defensive and commercial center. The city’s walls, some of which still stand today, were strengthened under Byzantine Emperor Anastasius I, who was born in Durrës. Today, Durrës thrives as a bustling port city.

It is Albania’s primary seaport, handling over 90% of the country’s maritime trade. With sandy beaches, lively promenades and a bustling market scene, Durrës offers residents and visitors alike a blend of ancient charm and modern convenience. Today’s ‘Your Choice’ experiences offer a chance to immerse in the ancient, medieval or recent past of this fascinating nation.

You can choose from a selection of morning and full-day shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). In the morning, the Tirana’s Paranoid Past tour reveals the capital city’s transformation from its Cold War past to its modern and vibrant present, including a visit to Bunk’Art 2, a re-imagined communist-era nuclear bunker. The full-day Kruja Castle & Bazaar tours a charming inland, hilltop city with a storied castle and bustling bazaar, including a traditional lunch. And the full-day UNESCO Berat & Çobo Winery tour for a locally guided, nostalgic journey into Albania’s rich history, including visits to the citadel and the Onufri Museum, plus a traditional lunch and visit to Çobo Winery for a tour and tasting of wines produced using ancient and indigenous grapes.

Your second Albanian port offers an opportunity to view one of Albania’s UNESCO-listed sites or spend time with a local family in one of the hilltop villages scattered in the city’s hinterland.

Once an ancient Greek and Roman port known as Onchesmos, Sarandë has witnessed centuries of civilizations, evident in its archaeological sites like the ancient city of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Butrint’s history spans Greek, Roman, Byzantine and Venetian periods, making it a treasure trove of historical artifacts and architecture. During World War II, Sarandë was occupied by Italian and German forces, and the remnants of military bunkers from the communist era still dot the landscape, offering a glimpse into the more recent past.

Today, Sarandë is a bustling holiday destination, renowned for its popular beaches. The city’s transformation in recent years reflects Albania’s progress, with modern amenities and a growing tourism industry. Sarandë’s population, predominantly Muslim with a significant Christian minority, coexist harmoniously, contributing to the city’s welcoming atmosphere and cultural diversity.

You can choose from a selection of morning and full-day shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). In the morning, visit the UNESCO Site of Butrint for Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Venetian and Ottoman artifacts, including the 3rd-centurey BCE-built ancient theater. The full-day Gjirokastër, the City of Stone tour a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture and historical significance. Explore the castle and its museum, and the old town bazaar, then enjoy lunch at a traditional restaurant to sample classic dishes.

Spend the morning on the island of Corfu before sailing in the early afternoon north to Montenegro.

Located in the Ionian Sea, the island of Corfu is a captivating fusion of past dynasties, including the Venetians and the British, with notable ties to Queen Elizabeth II consort Prince Philip, who was born on Corfu. Its rich history is evident in its diverse architectural styles, Byzantine churches, Venetian fortresses and British colonial buildings. Corfu’s Old Town stands as a testament to its cultural heritage, enclosed by Venetian fortifications. Wandering through its narrow cobblestone streets reveals elegant mansions, Byzantine churches and charming squares. Venetian influences adorn the architecture, with arched colonnades, grand palaces and picturesque bell towers.

A leisurely stroll along the iconic Liston Promenade, lined with cafes and boutiques, offers views of the surrounding sea and distant mountains. Every street seems to lead to a quintessential British icon: a cricket pitch. Beyond the Old Town, Corfu unveils a Greek lifestyle and seaside resorts.

You can choose from a selection of morning shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). On the Achilleion Palace & the Bay of Palaiokastritsa tour, visit the romantic Achilleion Palace, the picturesque bay of Palaiokastritsa and the Byzantine Monastery of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Or opt for the Walking Tour of UNESCO World Heritage Site Old Corfu Town, to explore the markets, shops, Byzantine churches, hidden tavernas and historic landmarks with a local guide.

The morning affords a glimpse into the life of the early Greeks, with a visit to the Oracle and former city of Delphi. Your local guides tell tales of pilgrimage, sacrifice and early faiths as you step into the world of Ancient Greece.

Revered throughout antiquity as a sacred site where pilgrims could glimpse the future, the Oracle of Delphi cast cryptic prophecies for over a millennium. Dubbed the ‘navel of the world’ for its pivotal position in the Greek realm, Delphi drew pilgrims from all sectors of society, shaping critical decisions, from civic politics to personal destinies. Perched dramatically on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, the Oracle was esteemed as a direct conduit to the divine realm of Apollo–the sun god. Revered for his beauty and creative prowess, Apollo symbolized order and harmony. As a result, Delphi became integral to Greek identity, reflecting its religious, cultural and political life. It was a unifying site where people from various city-states gathered, fostering a sense of shared Hellenic heritage.

Your journey leads to the very site of the Oracle, alongside the opulent Treasury of the Athenians–a testament to offerings made. Pause at the ancient theater, host to the prestigious Pythian Games, and the Castalian Spring, where pilgrims purified themselves before seeking counsel.

Today, Delphi stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its influence enduring through the annals of literature, history and art. It remains a profound emblem of ancient wisdom and cultural legacy, cherished by Greece as a bridge to its storied past.

Returning to the ship, have lunch and time to relax. Enjoy a swim in the pool, or a cool drink up on deck, as you sail towards one of the world’s engineering wonders. In the early evening, navigate the Corinth Canal.

This narrow waterway connects the Gulf of Corinth with the Saronic Gulf in the Aegean Sea, cutting through the Isthmus of Corinth and saving vessels a significant 435-mile (700km) journey around the Peloponnese peninsula. Stretching 4 miles (6.4km) and only 69 feet (21m) wide at its base, the Corinth Canal is one of the narrowest lock-free canals in the world. Its towering limestone walls, reaching heights of up to 256 feet (78m), create a dramatic passage for vessels, which almost touch its sides as they sail its path.

The concept of cutting a canal through the isthmus dates to ancient times, with plans proposed by Periander of Corinth in the 7th century BCE. Construction finally began under Roman Emperor Nero, only to halt upon his death. It was not until 1893 the canal was finally completed. Its construction was a monumental effort, involving the excavation of millions of cubic meters of earth and rock, all dug at sea level. It stands as a remarkable achievement in engineering and continues to be a key route for maritime traffic, enhancing Greece’s role as a central hub in the Mediterranean.

Exiting the canal, sail overnight to the Peloponnese Peninsula and the waterfront town of Nafplion.

Sitting on the northeastern coast of the Peloponnese peninsula, this historical town overlooks the Argolic Gulf, framed by surrounding mountains. Serving as the first capital of independent Greece, between 1833 and 1834, Nafplion boasts a wealth of historical landmarks that bear witness to its illustrious past. Serving as the gateway to major UNESCO World Heritage Sites Epidaurus and Mycenae, Nafplion offers visitors a memorable day out.

You can choose from a selection of morning shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). Consider the Nafplion Walking Tour with Ouzo Factory Tour & Tasing for a locally guided walk among the town’s most important sites, including a visit to the distillery to sample ouzo and cherry liqueur. Or visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mycenae to see remains of one of the most important cities of Ancient Greece with a local guide. Last option is a tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Sanctuary of Asklēpiós & Epidaurus, housing the world-famous theater and insights into a significant center for healing.

Your final evening is spent as a fond farewell to your ship, her crew and guide team as you enjoy a farewell dinner on board and sail the Aegean to Greece’s capital, Athens.

After breakfast, disembark at the port of Piraeus and join a ‘Your Choice’ Athens experience, with time to enjoy a free afternoon before transferring to your overnight hotel.

With a history stretching back 3,500 years, Athens is a city rich with stories. Known as the cradle of civilization and celebrated as the birthplace of democracy, philosophy and theater, Athens seamlessly blends its storied past with its lively present. This bustling metropolis, home to three million residents, is dotted with ancient landmarks like temples, iconic columns and former city centers. Athens’ influence in antiquity reached far beyond its borders, ushering in a Golden Age of political debate, education and philosophy, and hosting figures such as Socrates, Plato and Aristotle. The democratic principles developed here laid the foundation for modern governance systems around the world.

However, Athens is more than just an ancient relic. Having weathered numerous invasions, it has evolved into a city with rich architectural styles, culinary traditions and cultural practices. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins or savoring modern Greek cuisine, Athens offers a fascinating journey through history, inviting travelers from all corners of the globe to experience its enduring charm.

You can choose from a selection of morning excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). Get A Taste of Athens on a guided walk through the city’s historical areas with stops to sample Greek delicacies. Or on the Classic Athens-the Acropolis & Athens tour, visit major city landmarks, the Acropolis and its museum, ending with time at the popular Plaka precinct for shopping or lunch (at your expense).

Enjoy a leisurely day in Athens. Revisit your favorite sites, relax by the hotel’s pool, or discover hidden treasures on your own exploration. Athens’ extensive metro network makes it easy to navigate the city, while the warm Greek hospitality ensures you are never far from helpful advice on how to make the most of your visit.

This evening, celebrate the end of your journey in true Greek style, with a farewell event.

After breakfast, check-out of your hotel and transfer to the airport for your onward flight.