Myths of the Mediterranean: Athens to Naples Cruise

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.

After breakfast, 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), with time to explore Athens this afternoon before gathering for a welcome event this evening. Get A Taste of Athens on a guided walk through the city’s historical areas with stops to sample Greek delicacies. On the Ancient Athens tour, visit the Acropolis, its museum and other major landmarks. Or on the Sandal Prints of Socrates tour, take the ultimate walking tour of the city, visiting Agora, Philopappos Hill, Hadrian’s Arch and the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and the Lyceum.

Rejoin the coach to return to your hotel or take a stroll to the city’s popular Plaka precinct, nearby. A series of streets and laneways filled with restaurants, cafes and shops, it is the perfect place to grab a bite to eat or shop for gifts to take home (lunch at your own expense). This evening, celebrate the start to your journey in true Greek style, with a welcome event.

Enjoy a leisurely morning in Athens. Revisit your favorite sites, explore the city’s markets and shops, or discover hidden treasures on an independent 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 time.

Mid-afternoon, be transferred from your hotel to the port of Piraeus to board the ship and sail towards the famed Corinth Canal. This evening, enjoy a welcome aboard dinner where you meet your crew and onboard team.

This morning, arrive at one of Greece’s most renowned islands. The island of Mykonos, with its iconic whitewashed buildings and charming cobblestone lanes, has been a crossroads of cultures for centuries. Renowned for their hospitality, the people of Mykonos excel at making visitors feel at home amid the island’s historical treasures and picturesque landscapes. From ancient ruins to traditional windmills, Mykonos offers a captivating glimpse into a storied past. The local cuisine, festivals and vibrant arts scene reflect a deep cultural heritage, making Mykonos a unique and enriching destination. While recent years have boosted its reputation for vibrant nightlife, bustling beaches and world-famous beach clubs, there is much more to discover beyond the surface of this famed island. Delve deeper and you will find a community that embraces tradition, a fact that truly shines when you engage with the locals. Take the time to chat with them and you will find that the true wealth of Mykonos lies in its people.

Spending time at one of Mykonos’s famous beaches is a popular way to enjoy your day. If this is your preference, then take a taxi from the port to your chosen beach. Many of Mykonos’ beaches are lined with restaurants, clubs and hotels, which provide rows of recliners on the section of the beach adjacent to their property. These establishments often offer food and beverages to their beachfront clients and charge a fee for using their facilities. Therefore, be prepared to pay when visiting many of Mykonos’ beaches.

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 Iconic Mykonos tour, join a local guide to visit a quintessential Cycladic village, relax at Kalafatis Beach, and enjoy a walking tour of Mykonos Town. Or take a boat ride to the Mythical Delos to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site and learn about the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis.

Kuşadası, Turkey’s beloved seaside town, draws visitors with its vibrant bazaars, waterfront cafes and nearby beaches. This historic settlement, with roots in the Leleges and Carian civilizations, is close to the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. In the Ottoman era, Kuşadası thrived as a key port city, highlighted by the impressive Kuşadası Castle, or Pigeon Island, built to defend against pirates. The 17th-century Öküz Mehmed Pasha Caravanserai, originally for traders and their animals, now operates as a hotel and marketplace. A day in Kuşadası offers a delightful mix of historical significance, Ottoman architecture and lively shopping.

You can choose from a selection of half-day or full-day shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). Each option includes an opportunity to visit Ephesus either in the morning, or late afternoon/early evening. For a half-day tour, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ancient Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world. For a full-day tour, explore the Village of Sirince & Join a Hands-on Turkish Cooking Class to both learn how to cook various dishes and then enjoy the fruits of your work, followed by a locally guided tour with time to explore the markets. Or opt for the full-day experience Sail the Aegean on a Traditional Gulet to cruise the coastline in an elegant wooden sailboat and make swim/snorkel stops at secluded bays.

As you arrive at Santorini, it is easy to see why this iconic island is a favorite among travelers. The sheer cliffs soaring above the Aegean Sea are awe-inspiring as you cross the immense crater of a submerged volcano that leads to its shores. Shaped by a cataclysmic eruption 3,600 years ago, Santorini is famed for its striking sunsets and unique caldera views. Named Thira in ancient times, Santorini has always attracted the curious. Its ancient ruins, including the Minoan site of Akrotiri, offer a rich cultural heritage reflected in local cuisine, wine production, vibrant festivals and artisanal crafts. Whether wandering through the charming streets of Oia or enjoying the unique black-sand beaches, Santorini offers a deeply enriching experience that melds history and natural beauty into the ideal Grecian Island. Enjoy a day here before sailing at sunset.

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). Opt for the Village of Pygros & Wine Tasting Santorini Style for a walking tour for the infamous village and its whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches, followed by a winery visit and tasting. Or visit Akotiri, Fira & the Village of Oia for (another version of) whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches, plus an ancient city remarkably preserved following a historic volcanic eruption.

Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, hosts your journey for the next 2 days. This land of myths, history and natural wonders is steeped in ancient mythology. In fact, Crete is believed to be the birthplace of Zeus, king of the gods. Its labyrinthine ruins resonate with tales of the Minotaur and King Minos. The Minoans, Europe’s oldest civilization, have left behind the formidable Palace of Knossos, now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Crete’s landscape is equally captivating, with rugged mountains, fertile plains and idyllic beaches kissed by azure waters. Charming villages dot the countryside, where time seems to stand still amidst whitewashed buildings adorned with vibrant bougainvillea.

Your port of call is Souda, the lively gateway to Chania, renowned for its eclectic Old Town and picturesque surrounding plains. This region offers a variety of engaging experiences to discover before we return to the ship for lunch and sail westward to the Peloponnese Peninsula.

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 Chania Old Town on a guided walking tour, including an artisan pottery demonstration. Learn about the Battle for Crete by visiting battlegrounds and a cemetery related to the Cretan uprising against the Ottomans. Or learn about the Holocaust of Arkadi by visiting a historic monastery (& its museum) key to the Cretan uprising against the Ottomans, with a local guide.

Today, your ‘Your Choice’ experiences are truly Olympic in scope, offering you two classic Greek treats. A brief ten-minute walk from your berth, find a variety of shops and restaurants to explore. Just a short distance away, the popular pebbled Plakes Beach awaits, and the sandy stretch of Agios Andreas Beach is a mere five-minute taxi ride.

Steeped in maritime history, the picturesque port town of Katakolon remains the gateway to the ancient site of Olympia, and your port for today. One of the most important sanctuaries in ancient Greece, Olympia was dedicated to Zeus, the king of the gods. Every four years, athletes from across the Greek world gathered here to compete in various sports, honoring Zeus and fostering unity among the city states. The busy port town of Katakolon itself is a hub of activity, with its quaint streets lined with shops and cafes, while the Katakolon Lighthouse and the Museum of Ancient Greek Technology offer insights into the region’s rich history.

You can choose from a selection of morning and half-day shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). Spend the morning on An Olympic Encounter, exploring Olympia with a local guide, including its museum. Or spend a half day on the Farm & Feast tour, visiting a family-owned estate to sample ouzo and freshly baked local pie, learning about non-mechanized olive oil harvesting, enjoying a farm-to-table meal including the estate’s own wine, and participating in a lively sirtaki dance.

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.

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 and full-day shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). On the morning 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 morning 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 the morning 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 last morning option is Boka Bays’ Waterfront Wonders, a scenic speedboat cruise to waterfront villages, church-studded islands and the intriguing Submarine Tunnels. For a full-day experience, choose the Montenegro: A Day in the Country tour for a scenic boat trip on Skadar Lake (great for birders), a visit to the village of Rvaši for wine tasting at a vineyard and a homemade lunch with a local family, and a visit to Cetinje, Montenegro’s historic Old Royal Capital.

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).

Bari acts as your gateway today with its popular neighbors of Alberobello, Matera and Castel di Monte in sight. As the capital of Italy’s up-and-coming Puglia region, Bari is undergoing a renaissance, transforming once-neglected suburbs into colorful neighborhoods. The city’s bustling port has been a hub of trade and culture for centuries, showcasing its rich maritime heritage, while Bari’s charming old town, Bari Vecchia, features narrow, winding streets leading to historical sites like the Basilica di San Nicola and the imposing Norman-Swabian Castle. Famed for its orecchiette pasta, often handmade by local women right on the streets, Bari adds a personal touch to its culinary scene, with seafood a local specialty. Stories rich in legends such as that of Saint Nicholas, whose relics were brought to Bari from Myra in 1087, further enrich the city’s mystical allure as does a devotion to the 150,000 tons of olive oil produced in the region annually, which funds its ongoing facelift.

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). On the morning UNESCO World Heritage Site Alberobello tour, a local guide introduces you to the enchanting, conical whitewashed trulli houses. On the morning UNESCO World Heritage Site Castel di Monte tour, visit the octagonal hilltop fortress with a unique design by emperor Frederick II. On the full-day UNESCO World Heritage Site Matera tour, be enchanted by ancient the Sassi districts’ cave dwellings, labyrinthine streets and intricate rock churches.

As a small vessel, your ship can moor alongside at the walled coastal town of Gallipoli. This unique town acts as your gateway to the southern tip of Italy, offering time to explore the region’s hidden treasures on a ‘Your Choice’ experience.

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 excursion to the Walled City of Gallipoli is lead by a local guide, with insights into the picturesque island town and its fascinating history. Another morning option is a visit to Lecce, the Florence of the South, for Renaissance and baroque influences, lively markets and delicious cuisine. The full-day tour, Otranto’s Adriatic Coast, explores the UNESCO World Heritage Site, including a leisurely stroll, swim in Adriatic waters and lunch of Apulian specialties.

Follow the Italian coast west towards Sicily, with a stop at the Calabrian city of Crotone. Overlooking the Ionian Sea, Crotone boasts a fascinating old town where the medieval Castello di Carlo V stands as a testament to its storied past. Founded by Greek colonists, this ancient city was once home to everyone’s favorite mathematician: Pythagoras.

A symbol of Crotone is the Capo Colonna promontory, housing the last standing column of the ancient Temple of Hera Lacinia. Dedicated to the queen of the Greek gods, this temple was a significant religious sanctuary during the days of Magna Graecia, drawing pilgrims and worshippers from across the region. In recent years, Crotone has revitalised its marina and beachfront, becoming a perfect spot for sailing and sunbathing. Despite modern development, remnants of its old-town charm persist, while its coastal waters, stretching to Capo Rizzuto, form Italy’s largest protected marine reserve.

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 Le Castella, on a locally guided tour to explore the fortress, discover local ceramics and immerse in the essence of Calabria’s coastal charm. Also in the morning is a visit to the Hilltop Village of Santa Severina for the photogenic town and a tour of its castle—one of southern Italy’s best-preserved military fortresses which houses a museum—followed by a wine tasting (paired with typical Calabrian food) at a nearby farm.

This morning, arrive in Messina, the guardian of Sicily. Overlooking the entrance to the Straits of Messina, just a short 15-minute ferry ride from the Italian mainland, Messina has long been a pivotal city in the region. Though it has endured numerous invasions and disasters, including two major earthquakes and a tsunami that devastated the town, Messina remains resilient. Historically notable for its role in World War II, when it was the site of a famous race between Generals Montgomery and Eisenhower to reach the city first, Messina now serves as your gateway to Europe’s highest active volcano and the surrounding coastal treasures. Your morning experiences offer a variety of activities. Scale Mt. Etna, take a seat at an ancient Roman Ampitheater for one of the best views in Sicily, or follow Francis Ford Coppola’s iconic trilogy on a ‘Godfather’ tour.

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). Visit the hilltop enclave of Taormina to take in views of its luxurious hotels, restaurants and tile-terraced piazzas. Follow in the footsteps of Marlin Brando and Al Pacino on The Godfather tour to Savoca for its memorabilia-stuffed Bar Vitelli, Catacombs and Capuchin Convent, followed by the hilltop village of Forza D’Agro, where many scenes were filmed. Or experience Mt Etna with a local guide in an all-terrain vehicle, to reach charming villages and skirt extinct craters on the highest active volcano in Europe.

Returning to the ship, sail north through the Straits of Messina in the early afternoon, enjoying lunch onboard as you return to the Italian mainland.

The port town of Salerno plays gateway to one of Europe’s most famous coastlines; the Amalfi Coast. A magnet to both ancient and modern visitors, its interspersed villages appear to almost grow from the rockface on which they are built. The dramatic cliffs and natural harbors of the Amalfi Coast have hosted holiday homes of the rich and revered throughout time. Today’s excursions offer a hint of the coast’s abundant past and present as you view the excavations of luxurious villas, theaters and bathhouses at Pompeii, or search the beachfront villages of the Amalfi for tantalizing tales at the heart of Amalfi life.

You can choose from a selection of morning, half-day and full-day shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). For a morning tour, join a guide through the buried city of Pompeii & Mount Vesuvius. For a half-day option, the Amalfi Coast & Lemon Walk tour to Sorrento offers insights from a local expert into the region’s terraced lemon groves, capped off by a Limoncello tasting. For a full-day excursion, the Amalfi Coast Drive offers postcard-perfect vistas, hairpin turns along stunning cliffs and charming coastal villages, with time in the celebrity mecca of Positano and also Amalfi town; also enjoy a gelato break and 45-minute coastal cruise to Salerno.

Disembark at the northern edge of the Bay of Naples, in Naples itself. There’s time today to enjoy a morning ‘Your Choice’ experience, before an afternoon at leisure to explore Naples independently. Mid-afternoon, transfer to your Naples hotel, before gathering to enjoy an evening farewell event.

Shrouded by the shadow of a brooding Mount Vesuvius, Naples’ underworld reputation has mellowed in recent years providing the perfect culmination of your explorations. Survivors of successive imperial invasions, outbreaks of plagues and infamous natural disasters, Neapolitans are well known for their dramatic personalities. Developed by Rome’s elite as a series of holiday resorts and prosperous towns, the southern coastline of the Bay of Naples offers a wealth of insights into the ancient world, while the modern city of Naples is an eclectic mix of winding lanes, underground channels and glass-fronted high-rises, making it a town with more than its share of tall tales.

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). For Napoli on a Plate, visit a local pizzeria to sample two varieties of pizza plus indulge in one of Naples’ iconic pastries. On the Naples; Yesterday-Today tour, walk the streets, visit important buildings and enjoy a visit to the city’s underground archaeological complex. Or opt for the Palace of Caserta for its Baroque architecture, with over five floors, 1,200 rooms, 11 acres of gardens, pools, fountains and cascades, and almost 300 acres of parklands that feature hundreds of rare and precious plants from around the world.

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