greece · milos step back in time mil -02 59 33 4 hrs our amazing beaches tour mil -03 33 20 4 hrs...

GreeceGreeceGreeceGreece Shore Excursions 2014Shore Excursions 2014Shore Excursions 2014Shore Excursions 2014

GRIFFON 4, Cusrow Baug, S.B.S. Road, Colaba, Mumbai 400001.

Tel.: (022) 2204 5014 / 2204 5019 � Fax: (022) 2283 0461 � Email: [email protected]

7 Days / 7 Nights Greece & Turkey

Port Description Code

Rate (USD) Approx. Duration Adult

Child (3 – 12 yrs.)

PIRAEUS Athens Monuments and the Acropolis PIR-01 79 52 Half Day

Athens tour and the New Acropolis Museum PIR-07 79 52 Half Day

MYKONOS Shuttle Bus MYK-07 10 8 -

Myconian Countryside tour with Hora & Little Venice MYK-06 * 51 33 Half Day

KUSADASI House of Virgin & Ancient Ephesus KUS-01 81 49 4 hrs

Ancient Ephesus through the Ages - Hellenistic/Roman KUS-02 75 47 3 hrs

Ancient Ephesus & the Terrace Houses KUS-07 81 49 Half Day

SAMOS Traditional Samian Feast SAM-03 90 59 4 hrs

Samos - Pythagoras island and its diverse beauty SAM-01 51 26 4 hrs

Samos 4x4 Adventure SAM-04 90 59 4 hrs

Tsamadou Beach Transfer SAM-05 26 18 Half Day

Samos - Pythagoras island - Culture - Scenery Winery SAM-02 51 26 4 hrs

MILOS Step Back in time MIL-02 59 33 4 hrs

Our amazing beaches tour MIL-03 33 20 4 hrs

A Grand Day Out in Milos (swimming) MIL-04 59 33 4 hrs

The hidden treasures of Marvelous Milos (Round of Milos) MIL-05 64 43 Half Day

Nostalgic Milos Cruise MIL-06 98 59 Full Day

Sea Kayaking & Volcanic BBQ (Sold only on board) MIL-07 64 43 3 ½ hrs

LAVRION Athens Monuments and the Acropolis LAV-01 85 52 5 hrs

Athens tour and the New Acropolis Museum LAV-07 98 59 5 hrs

Ancient temple of Poseidon & Cape Sounion LAV-06 53 33 2 ½ hrs

SYROS Sublime Syros SYR-03 38 23 4 hrs

CESME Experience Ancient Ephesus CES-01 90 52 4 hrs

Sole & Mare Club Alacati CES-02 64 39 4 hrs

Izmir Up-Close CES-03 46 26 4 ½ hrs

BODRUM Cruise by Night - A Twist of Moonlight BOD-03 51 26 3 hrs

Shuttle Bus BOD-04 10 8 -

KOS Asklepion - Zia - Platane of Hippocrates KOS-01 59 33 4 hrs

Taste of Tradition with Zia KOS-07 59 33 4 hrs

Bravo Beach Transfer (Sold only on board) KOS-05 33 20 3 hrs

A "Lazy Day" Cruise KOS-06 72 43 4 hrs

IOS Panoramic Ios, Skarkos, Chora & Maganari beach IOS-01 46 23 4 hrs

Magnificent Maganari Beach (Sold only on board) IOS-02 33 20 5 hrs

Magnificent Maganari Beach by Boat (Sold only on board) IOS-04 33 20 5 hrs

Set sail on our Pirate Boat IOS- 03 59 33 5 hrs

SANTORINI Spectacular Oia village perched on the caldera rim SAN-01 72 43 3 hrs

Cruise to Santorin's islands and volcanoes SAN-02 72 43 3 hrs

Off the beaten track Safari adventure SAN-10 72 43 Half Day

Akrotiri Village Excavations SAN-08 72 43 -

ISTANBUL Ottoman Empire and Byzantine Legacy IST-03 135 83 9 hrs

Religious visit to Orthodox churches and Greek Patriarchate IST-15 94 55 8 ½ hrs

Discover the hidden secrets of Sultanahmet Square IST-13 68 42 4 hrs

Bosporus Cruise from Europe to Asia IST-12 43 27 3 hrs

CRETE The crystal - clear waters of Elounda & Spinalonga AGH-03 72 43 4 ½ hrs

A Delectable Day in Crete AGH- 02 66 39 5 hrs

The Minoan Palace of Knossos & Cosmopolitan Heraklion AGH-06 66 39 5 hrs

Cretan Jeep Safari AGH-07 123 74 Half Day

River Trekking AGH-05 85 51 Half Day

RHODES Medieval tour - Acropolis of Lindos and the Citadel of the knights RHO-01 74 46 6 hrs

Medieval tour - Philerimos church & Palace of the knights RHO-02 74 46 4 hrs

Walking tour in the Medieval City of Rhodes RHO-11 42 26 Half Day

Tsampika Beach Transfer - sold on board only RHO-08 25 18 Half Day

SYMI Our savory Symi BBQ Cruise SYM-03 72 43 -

CHIOS The "Ghost" town of Anavatos, Nea Moni, Chios Town CHI-02 51 26 4 hrs

The best of Chios Town and Spoon sweet Citrus CHI-04 51 26 4 hrs

Mesta Anavatos CHI-05 51 26 4 hrs

Karfas Beach Transfer (Sold only on board) CHI-06 18 13 Half Day

* Depended on the time of the year and the available daylight (July August)




… 2 …

� Prices in USD per person Adult or Child � Children: 3 – 12 years � Shore excursions prices are subject to change. These changes may occur due to unexpected increases in the cost of transportation, land arrangements

and/or major currency fluctuations.

PIRAEUS Athens Monuments and the Acropolis (PIR-01) Half Day

This historical hill of the Acropolis carries the renowned Parthenon atop its shoulders, which is dedicated to

the goddess Athena, protector of the city of Athens. Its inauguration took place in 438 B.C. at the Great

Panathenaea. Next to the Propylaea lies the temple of Athena Nike or Wingless Nike. There was kept the wooden statue

(xoanon) of Athena which was “wingless”, signifying that she would never leave Athens. Next to the Parthenon

rises the Erechtheion, a marble edifice of the Ionic order. The eastern part of the temple was dedicated to

Athena Polias and the western to Poseidon-Erechtheus. From the Acropolis hill you will be able to admire the

glorious Odeon of Herodes Atticus.

Leaving the historical hill of Acropolis you will pass by the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in front of the Greek

Parliament Building. A stop at the Panathenaic Stadium, where the first modern Olympic Games were held in

1896, is necessary. Next follows the stylish “Trilogy of Athens”, which was constructed at the end of the 19th

century: the old building of the University of Athens, the National Library and the Academy of Athens. The

excursion comes to a close with a trip through the Squares of Omonia and Syntagma, the heart of modern

Athens.

Athens tour and the New Acropolis Museum (PIR-07) Half Day

Leaving behind you the port, you head by coach along the sea road towards the centre of Athens. The Temple

of Olympian Zeus stands at the south east of the Acropolis, it is constructed with Pentelic marble and dedicated

to the father of the 12 gods, Zeus.

The tour continues in front of the Greek Parliament Building with your destination the Panathenaic Stadium.

The tour will then convey you to the “Trilogy of Athens”: three 19th century buildings, influenced by classical

architecture, on Panepistimiou Street. A trip through Omonia Square and Syntagma Square will bring you to

the beautiful, picturesque preserved quarter of Plaka, beneath the Acropolis.

The final destination is the modern, imposing, bright Acropolis Museum. It is a thematic archaeological

museum of exceptional aesthetics, which opened its doors to the public in 2009 and houses the most famous

works of classical antiquity. The new Acropolis Museum makes use of the elements of light, motion and

multiple levels and its collections are exhibited on 3 floors and in an area of 14,000 sq. m (150,000 sq. ft)..

MYKONOS Shuttle Bus (MYK-07)

Return Bus transfer to Mykonos town

Myconian Countryside tour with Hora & Little Venice (MYK-06) Half Day

The excursion with the coach and your tour guide sets off from Chora.

Next stop at the south, the leeward beach of Ornos, a picturesque fishing harbour which is a popular

anchorage and then on to the small beach of Agia Anna and Kalafatis beach.

During the trip back to Chora, you will visit the traditional village of Ano Mera and the monastery of Panagia

Tourliani, founded in 1542. The pretty village square is perfect spot for a short break.

Returning to Chora you will stop at Paraportiani. A few metres down you will meet the Mykonos Folklore

Museum, which is housed in an old two-storied merchant baron’s house.

You continue towards the “Little Venice” of Mykonos, Alefkandra, with its windmills and the almost

otherworldly sunsets.

KUSADASI House of Virgin & Ancient Ephesus (KUS-01) Half Day

Before his crucifixion, Jesus entrusted the safety of the Virgin Mary to St. John the Evangelist. St.John moved

Mary to Ephesus for safety.

Virgin Mary lived here until the 101st year of her life. In 1957 the Vatican recognized the “House of the Virgin

Mary” as the place where the Virgin spent the last years of her life and since then it is an important pilgrimage

site for both Christians and Muslims.

Next stop the city of Ancient Ephesus, the Ionian colony, which is one of the largest open-air archaeological

museums in the world. Together with your tour guide, you will pass the Magnesian Gate. Traces of the

Hellenistic, Roman and Early Christian period are scattered everywhere: the Agora, the Odeon, the Library of

Celsus, the marble-paved main Street of the Kouretes, the Thermal Baths of Scholastica, Trajan’s Fountain, the

Public Latrines, the Houses of the Patricians, the Prytaneum, Hadrian’s Temple, the Great Theatre.

The excursion is completed at the Covered Bazaar of Kusadasi with some free time for shopping and…

bargaining!

During the excursion you will have the opportunity to do some shopping such as carpets, jewelry, leather and

other souvenirs.




… 3 …

KUSADASI Ancient Ephesus through the Ages - Hellenistic/Roman (KUS-02) Half Day

At Ancient Ephesus you find Immortal relics of the Hellenistic, Roman and Early Christian era. At the

archaeological site you will be given a guided tour among the Agora, the Odeon, the Library of Celsus, the

marble-paved main Street of Kouretes, the Baths of Scholastica, Trajan’s Fountain, the Public Latrines, the

Residences of the Patricians, the Prytaneum, the Temple of Hadrian…

The Great Theatre, built in the 4th century B.C., could accommodate 24,000 spectators and it is famous even

nowadays for its acoustics. The finds from the excavations, which have yet brought to light only 13% of ancient

Ephesus, reside in the Archaeological Museum of Ephesus, in the city of Selcuk.

Your day couldn’t close in a better way than a beautiful walk through the Covered Bazaar in Kusadasi. Here,

you will be able to ramble, bargain for jewellery, cosmetics or leather products at the little shops.


other souvenirs.

Ancient Ephesus & the Terrace Houses (KUS-07) Half Day

Passing with your tour guide through the Magnesian Gate you will wander, feeling awe in time and space,

through the Agora, the Odeon, the Library of Celsus, the marble-paved main Street of Kouretes, the Baths of

Scholastica, the Great Theatre, Trajan’s Fountain, the Public Latrines, the Houses of the Patricians, the

Prytaneum and the Temple of Hadrian.

Opposite Hadrian’s Temple, at the foot of the Bulbul hill and the covered part of the archaeological site,

protected by the heat and natural elements lie the Houses of Koressus or Terrace Houses. Here lived the rich

families of Ancient Ephesus and you will be surprised by the excellent state of preservation of these

comfortable villas, especially their interior décor. The oldest unearthed houses date since the 1st century B.C.

and were two-storied and built based on the city planning and they even had “heating”, and hot and cold

water.

The excursion comes to a close at Kusadasi with the colorful Covered Bazaar and the little shops that

brimming with the jovial energy of bargaining.


other souvenirs.

SAMOS Traditional Samian Feast (SAM-03) Half Day

Join us for an unforgettable meal served in the main square of Pagondas, a charming village scented by orange

and lemon trees and filled with friendly locals eager to share their cuisine and way of life.

Board your air-conditioned motor coach for a scenic drive through the verdant island of Samos passing by

lovely villages and attractive bays. Your first stop will be the picturesque village of Pythagorion where you will

enjoy independent time to explore.

Continuing on, enjoy a relaxing forty-five minute journey to the entrance of the village of Pagondas. From here,

proceed on foot, walking through the narrow streets until you are greeted by the big trees, small taverns and

quaint houses that line the beautiful town square. Large, inviting tables overflow with traditional delicacies

and world famous Sámos wine. Savor the food and atmosphere while enjoying the performances of a local

orchestra and dancing troupe.

Samos - Pythagoras island and its diverse beauty (SAM-01) Half Day

Samos the land of Pythagoras, Epicurus, Aristarchus and possibly Aesop, is in full bloom. Its fertile soil gives

birth to the world renowned Muscat variety of wine. These two elements of nature, earth and water, are in

complete control on this island, which is the 8th largest of Greece. You will have so much to see and do!

Starting out on a coach, with an experienced tour guide, from Vathy you will shortly arrive at the Samos Wine

Museum. It was inaugurated in the summer of 2005 and both its exhibits and its impressive representations

will guide you through paths of fine, aromatic, awarded wine. You will learn about the vats and chemistry

equipment, you will see up close the tools and tubes and you will become informed about the white Muscat

variety, which reigns supreme over this land.

Traveling towards the south, you will soon come to the Monastery of Panagia Spiliani. It is said that this was

the Cave of Pythagoras and that from here, the great mathematician operated a philosophical school.

For the conclusion of the excursion, there awaits the land which gave birth to Pythagoras and which took its

name from him: Pythagoreio. At the third largest village of Samos, a vivid and beautifully maintained place,

you will have enough time for exploration, walks and shopping

Tsamadou Beach Transfer (SAM-05) Half Day

Bus transfer to beautiful Tsamadou beach. Tsamadou is an organized beach with all modern facilities

(Included in the price Sun chair & Umbrella).




… 4 …

SAMOS Samos 4x4 Adventure (SAM-04) Half Day

Get acquainted with the verdant island of Sámos with this exciting four-wheel-drive experience, which includes

a visit to a beautiful beach for a chance to swim and sunbathe.

At the pier, you will climb into your Suzuki-type four-wheel-drive vehicle to begin your island exploration. The

manual-transmission jeep is self-driven, with either you or your travel companion taking the wheel. Your guide

will be in a lead vehicle, ensuring that you see the best of Sámos without having to navigate its roads on your

own.

Your route takes you northeast, to the part of Sámos considered to be the most interesting and beautiful.

Making your way around the Bay of Vathi, venture through the pine-forested region of Malagari before

passing the picturesque fishing village of Kokkari. Nearby is Lemonakia, one of the most dazzling coves on

Sámos.

The road next leads to a forest of plane trees and the lovely Valley of the Nightingales. Named for the

nightingales that can often be heard singing high up in trees that line the river, the valley is a favorite spot for

humans too, as it offers a cool oasis on hot summer days.

Following a brief stop to admire the view, enjoy the 30-minute drive to Potami beach, a breathtaking stretch of

white pebbles and sand.You will have the opportunity to swim in the crystal clear waters and relax in the sun.

Samos - Pythagoras island - Culture - Scenery Winery (SAM-02) Half Day

Samos, with its 25 vineyards, the waterfalls and the wetlands, the seaside villages, the traditional pottery craft

and the famed Samian wines welcomes you cordially.

The organized excursion, with your tour guide, starts from Vathy, the capital of the island. First stop is the

Samos Wine Museum, to be introduced without delay to the tradition, procedure and artistry of the local wine

production processes. You will learn about the vats and chemistry equipment, you will see up close the tools

and tubes and you will become informed about the white Muscat variety, which reigns supreme over this land.

At the Museum’s shop you can pick up supplies of these cultured souvenirs. Next stop of this excursion, after

you navigate an amazing, verdant route, is the seaside village of Kokkari. It is one of the most touristically

developed villages of Samos and its picturesque qualities are flowing through its alleyways and houses, its little

port and enviable beaches. Here you will have the free time to stroll around and search out interesting shops

and places.

MILOS Step Back in time (MIL-02) Half Day (Restricted Maximum Participation 110 pax-No Catacombs visit

during the afternoon tour)

We invite you to step back in time with us on the incredible volcanic island of Milos, one of the most beautiful

places on earth. A short drive from the harbor takes us to Sarakiniko, an inlet of pure white stone sculpted by

volcanic eruptions. This startlingly beautiful, otherworldly spot is one of the island’s many geological wonders

and perhaps one of the most photographed places in the Cyclades. We’ll walk down to the inlet so you can

experience this one-of-a-kind beach and take photographs. You’ll feel as if you’ve landed on the moon.

We continue our drive along the dramatic Milos coastline toward Papafranga, a cluster of deep-sea inlets and

sea caves at the base of a pristine ravine which, like Sarakiniko, was shaped by volcanic activity. We’ll linger

for a short while at this picturesque locale, where you can peer down into clear turquoise waters and watch

some rather adventurous tourists swimming and snorkeling in the caves at the bottom of the ravine.

Milos is considered crucial to the pre-history of the Cyclades thanks to Filakopi, our next stop, a settlement

dating back to the Neolithic Period (approximately 9000 to 4000 BC). While excavating the site in the late

1890s, British archeologists discovered implements fashioned from obsidian, a volcanic glass similar to

granite. We will tour the site, which is still being excavated, and learn about the history of Filakopi, which

remained an active settlement up until 1000 BC.

From Filakopi we travel the picturesque main road along the coast to the cobblestone streets and alleys of

Plaka, a classic Cycladic village of white stone houses and bougainvillea flowers 250 meters above the Aegean.

We’ll stroll through the village to admire its traditional architecture and its stunning view of the sea, and we’ll

sample some homemade sweets at a few of the village’s local pastry shops.

Just 100 meters from Plaka lie early Christian catacombs, the largest in Greece, and the ruins of ancient Melos

and its Roman amphitheater, which is cut into the rocky slope of the hill near the ancient agora. Our path from

the catacombs to the amphitheater takes us through a small olive grove beneath the retaining walls of ancient

Melos, where you’ll find large Dorian walls and column fragments. The marble amphitheater, to which you’ll

have unrestricted access, still includes seven intact rows of seats and offers a lovely view of the bay. On our way

back to the bus, we will visit the site where the Venus de Milo (now residing in the Louvre in Paris), was

discovered in 1820.




… 5 …

MILOS A Grand Day Out in Milos (swimming) (MIL-04) Half Day (Restricted Maximum Participation 74 )

We’ve crammed most of the highlights of magnificent Milos into this half-day tour. Our air-conditioned bus

picks you up at the port of Adamas for a grand day out. We begin in the picturesque village of Tripiti, which is

perched on a ridge above the sea. After the abandonment of Filakopi in 1100 BC, Tripiti, then known as Milos,

became the capital of the island, and both Tripiti and its port, Klima, on the coast below the village, were

inhabited during the Geometric, Classical, Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine periods. Nearby lie the early

Christian catacombs, the largest in Greece, the ruins of ancient Melos, where you’ll find large Dorian walls and

column fragments, and the Roman amphitheater, which is cut into the rocky slope of the hill near the ancient

agora. The marble amphitheater, to which you’ll have unrestricted access, still includes seven intact rows of

seats and offers a lovely view of the bay. We’ll also visit the site where the Venus de Milo was discovered in

1820 (she now resides in the Louvre in Paris).

From Tripiti it’s only ten minutes to the cobblestone streets of Plaka, a classic Cycladic village of white stone

houses and bougainvillea flowers 250 meters above the Aegean. We’ll stroll through the village to admire its

traditional architecture and its stunning view of the sea, particularly from the courtyard of the Korfiatsa

Church. We’ll also sample some homemade sweets at a few of the village’s local pastry shops.

Our grand day out continues as we make the short drive east to Sarakiniko, an inlet of pure white stone

sculpted by volcanic eruptions. This startlingly beautiful, otherworldly spot is one of the island’s many

geological wonders and perhaps one of the most photographed places in the Cyclades. We’ll walk down to the

inlet so you can experience this one-of-a-kind beach and take photographs. You’ll feel as if you’ve landed on the

moon.

From Sarakiniko we continue on to our last stop, Pollonia, known for its lovely Tamarisk-shaded sandy beach.

Pollonia is beloved of water sports enthusiasts, particularly windsurfers and divers. We’ll enjoy a swim here,

and there’ll be time for a snack in one of the traditional coffee houses or tavernas along Pollonia’s picturesque

waterfront before we conclude our grand day out with a short, scenic drive back to the port at Adamas.

The hidden treasures of Marvelous Milos (Round of Milos) (MIL-05) Half Day

Join us for a full, unforgettable day on marvelous Milos. Captain Yangos, a seventeen-meter wooden ship, will

pick you up as soon as you disembark from your ship in the harbor at Adamas, sailing west. A short while after

you leave Adamas you’ll pass the fishing village of Klima and its legendary boathouses, the syrmata (“wire”).

These houses provide homes to the fishermen and their families while protecting their boats, which are docked

or “garaged” beneath each building – the houses are called syrmata because the fishermen use wire to pull

their boats from the water into the houses.

From Klima we sail toward the sleepless Arkoudes, a rock formation that resembles a mother bear and her

cub, who guard the entrance to the harbor. Traveling north, we pass Cape Vani, whose taunting rocks stand

sentinel on the cape beside the cape’s old manganese mines, which operated between 1890 and 1920. The

remains of the loading bays, which were in use a century ago, can still be seen on shore. After we turn south,

we will stop for a cool, refreshing swim at one of the incredible western beaches of Milos, Kalogries, Agkathia,

Triades or Agios Ioannis; our selection will depend on weather conditions and the number of private yachts

anchored at these beaches.

After our swim we will continue to the southwest corner of the island for our visit to the famous Sykia Cave. We

will not stop to swim here, but you will be able to peer into the cave from the deck of Captain Yangos. Our next

destination is Kleftiko, a unique volcanic landscape and one of the most famous landmarks of Milos. It was a

pirate hideout for about 400 years, but it’s perfectly safe now! We’ll dock here, after a tour of its three bays, so

you can enjoy a dip in its crystalline waters. We travel back up the western coast of the island for our return to

Adamas, with another stop for swimming at Kalogries, Agkathia, Triades or Agios Ioannis; again, our selection

will depend on weather conditions and the number of private yachts anchored at these beaches.

Please note

The price for this excursion does not include drinks or food. There is a bar on board at which you can purchase

water, drinks and snacks. In the case of strong north winds, the alternative itinerary for this excursion is:

• Kipos

• Kleftiko (40-minute stop)

• Gerontas

• Tsigrado or Kalamos (30-minute stop)

• Sulphur Mines (30-minute stop)

• Kipos




… 6 …

MILOS Our amazing beaches tour (MIL-03) Half Day (Restricted Maximum Participation 46 pax)

Milos is home to some of the Cyclades’ legendary beaches, including Paleochori, which is considered the best

beach on the island for swimmers, skin divers, sun-worshippers and water sports enthusiasts. About a thirty-

minute drive from the port at Adamas, Paleochori, which actually comprises three beaches totaling 800 meters

of sandy coastline, is known for its dramatic cliff faces, which mineral deposits, particularly sulfur, have

rendered in dazzling reds and yellows. Your bus will drop you about 400 meters from the beach.

Umbrellas and sun beds are available at the main beach at Paleochori, which is sandy with a smattering of

white pebbles. There are some wonderful restaurants perched high above the beach here, including Artemis, a

fish tavern, and the atmospheric Aqua loca beach bar. Drop yourself into one of its comfy chaise longues with a

panoramic view of the Sea of Crete and chill!

After Paleochori we drive to Sarakiniko, an inlet of pure white stone sculpted by volcanic eruptions. This

startlingly beautiful, otherworldly spot is one of the island’s many geological wonders – ISLANDS magazine

recently named Sarakiniko one of the world’s 30 most beautiful undiscovered beaches. You’ll feel as if you

landed on the moon as we descend for a delightful swim in Sarakiniko’s bright turquoise waters. After our

swim we board the bus for a relaxing drive back to port.

Please be advised there are no services available at Sarakiniko.

Nostalgic Milos Cruise (MIL-06) Full Day

Join us for a thrilling day sailing around Milos in the Thalassitra, a fourteen-meter “trehantiri,” a traditional

wooden sailboat used historically in the Aegean for fishing and transporting cargo. The Thalassitra will pick

you up in Adamas harbor and begin sailing west. A short while after you leave Adamas you’ll pass the fishing

village of Klima and its legendary boathouses, the syrmata (“wire”). These houses provide homes to the

fishermen and their families while protecting their boats, which are docked or “garaged” beneath each

building – the houses are called syrmata because the fishermen use wire to pull their boats from the water into

the houses.

From Klima we sail toward the sleepless Arkoudes, a rock formation that resembles a mother bear and her

cub, who guard the entrance to the harbor. Traveling north, we pass Cape Vani, whose taunting rocks stand

sentinel on the cape beside the cape’s old manganese mines, which operated between 1890 and 1920. The

remains of the loading bays, which were in use a century ago, can still be seen on shore. After we turn south,

we will stop for a cool, refreshing swim at one of the incredible western beaches of Milos, Kalogries, Agkathia,

Triades or Agios Ioannis; our selection will depend on weather conditions and the number of private yachts

anchored at these beaches.

After our swim we will continue to the southwest corner of the island for our visit to the famous Sykia Cave,

where we will stop and, with our tender boat, we will take you inside this miraculous cave for an unforgettable

swim. Our next destination is Kleftiko, a unique volcanic landscape and one of the most famous landmarks of

Milos. We’ll dock here, after a tour of its three bays, so you can enjoy a dip in its crystalline waters; if you’d like

to dive, please help yourself to our complimentary snorkeling equipment. Our captain will take you by tender

boat, so be prepared to hear tales of bygone swashbuckling Aegean pirates and their plunder! Kleftiko was a

pirate hideout for about 400 years, but it’s perfectly safe now…After enjoying the sea, please join us on deck for

a sumptuous buffet of local dishes accompanies by local wines and ice-cold beer. What better way to celebrate

an unforgettable day with a delicious, memorable lunch.

We travel back up the western coast of the island for our return to Adamas, with another stop for swimming at

Kalogries, Agkathia, Triades or Agios Ioannis, if we have time; again, our selection will depend on weather

conditions and the number of private yachts anchored at these beaches.

Please Note

We may have to change the schedule for this excursion, without any warning, if weather conditions or boat

traffic at our destinations make it necessary to do so (but under no circumstances will we omit Kleftiko from

the itinerary). In case of strong north winds, the alternative itinerary for this excursion is:

Sea Kayaking & Volcanic BBQ (Sold only on board) Half Day

A singular excursion combining a kayak tour of the magnificent coastline of Milos with a unique barbecue

experience – you’ll be able to tell your friends you dined on food cooked with geothermal energy (no lighter

fluid required). From Adamas we drive to Agios Kyriaki, one of the most beautiful of the many beaches of Milos.

Our guide will meet us here and explain how to use our open, two-person kayaks, which enable you to hop in

and out with ease, and some basic safety procedures.

From Agios Kyriaki we paddle to lovely Palaiochori Beach, a trip of about 30 minutes. Along the way we’ll visit

thermal springs in a coastal cave, and we’ll pass colorful volcanic cliffs that seem as if they’ve been dyed red

and yellow. We’ll also make some short stops to swim, as you’ll be unable to resist the cool, clear aquamarine

waters beneath your kayak.

We arrive at Palaiochori Beach, where we’ll visit the outstanding Sirocco restaurant for a volcanic cooking

demonstration. The restaurant’s chefs will cook our food in the sand at Palaiochori Beach, which is heated by

volcanic (geothermal) energy. This incredible treat will be accompanied by cold water and ouzo. After our

volcanic snack we’ll enjoy a brief swim before we paddle back to the beach at Agios Kyriaki for our return to

Adamas.




… 7 …

LAVRION Athens Monuments and the Acropolis (LAV-01) Half Day

This tour is an introduction to the splendour of the Golden Age of Athens and the modern 21st Century city. On

arrival in Athens you visit the Acropolis on which stands the Parthenon, the symbol of classical architecture.

The entrance to the top of the hill is through the Propylea, the ‘gates’ through which the Panathinea

processions used to enter. Built totally of white marble covers an area of 50 m across the whole western face of

the Acropolis. Next to them is the temple of Athena Niki also known as the ‘Wingless Victory’. The Parthenon is

the main temple, built in honour of Goddess Athena. Her statue decorated the centre of the temple and it was

made of ivory and gold. Next to the Parthenon is the smaller Temple of Erechthion with lovely sculptured

young maidens supporting the roof of the porch. From the top of the Acropolis you can admire the ancient

theatre of Herodes Atticus with its remarkable acoustics. Performances are still held here each summer being

the highlight of cultural events in the Eastern Mediterranean. Leaving the Acropolis the tour takes you by the

tomb of the Unknown Soldier, guarded by the “evzones” dressed in their traditional costume, the Parliament

and the Panathinaikon Stadium where the first Olympics of modern times were held in 1896.The entire

stadium is built of pure white marble. Your drive continues by the Library – the Academy – the University,

three buildings representing 19th Century architecture blended with the classical influence. The tour then

passes by Omonia Square, the commercial centre of the city and Syntagma Square, which is the business, and

cultural centre. There will be time during the tour for you to browse and do a little shopping at the stores

located at the base of the Acropolis.

Athens tour and the New Acropolis Museum (LAV-07) Half Day

On arriving in Athens, you start the city sightseeing driving past the Temple of Zeus, the Tomb of the Unknown

Soldier, guarded by the “evzones” dressed in their traditional costume, the Parliament and the Panathinaikon

Stadium where the first Olympics of modern times were held in 1896. The whole stadium is built of pure white

marble. The drive continues by the Library – the Academy – the University, three buildings representing 19th

Century architecture blended with the classical influence. The tour then passes by Omonia Square, the

commercial centre of the city and Syntagma Square, which is the business and cultural centre. Your Athens’

city sightseeing ends at a leading café at the foot of the Acropolis, from where you can view all the majestic

monuments of the amazing Acropolis while enjoying your refreshment. The tour continues to the old part of

the city called Plaka where you can explore its mainly pedestrian streets with picturesque houses, shops and

numerous cafés. After the free time in Plaka you will board your coach for the return journey to Piraeus port.

The new Acropolis Museum is housed in a state-of-the-art building designed by Swiss-born architect Bernard

Tschumi. With an area of 226,000 square feet - 10 times larger than the old museum - the new building feels

open and full of light. Its design has received mixed reviews from locals, but there is no doubt it is a striking

and highly functional work of architecture.

The Acropolis Museum houses all of the portable objects removed from the Acropolis since 1834, with the

exception of a few bronzes displayed in the National Archeological Museum and inscriptions in the

Epigraphical Museum. The museum's artifacts are primarily religious in nature, including a fascinating

collection of ancient statues used in religious ceremonies, and they provide a fascinating visual history of

Greek religion.

Ancient temple of Poseidon & Cape Sounion (LAV-06) Half Day

The 30 minute trip is enchanting, with images full of nature and pine-trees. The Temple of Poseidon awaits

you, dedicated to the god of the sea. This is the southernmost and highest point of the cape and the monument

looks like it is washed by the Aegean on all sides.

The construction of the Temple was initially commenced at the beginning of the 5th century B.C. Yet, it was

destroyed by the Persians during the Persian Wars and so the Athenians built, in 444 B.C., the newer Temple,

parts of which are preserved until today. The Temple is of Doric order and bore a frieze with relief decoration

while it was also adorned by immense statues called Kouroi.

The archaeological site of Sounion, apart from the Sanctuaries of Poseidon and Athena, includes the fortress, a

small settlement from the Hellenistic era, the propylaea (entrance gateway) and the porticoes.




… 8 …

SYROS Sublime Syros (SYR-03) Half Day (Approx 4hrs – Limited maximum participation)

The port of Ermopouli in Syros is the capital of the Cyclades and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Our tour

takes you south from Ermopouli to Anastasi Church, above Ermopouli, to visit this lovely domed church and

to enjoy a breathtaking view of Tinos and Mykonos. From Anastasi we drive through the beach villages of

Vari, Megas Gialos, Possidonia, Finikas, Galissas and Kini: the beach at Vari, a traditional fishing village, lies

along a sheltered bay, while the beach at Megas Gialos stretches beneath the brightly-painted houses of the

village; Possidonia is home to a number of ornate mansions and a picturesque blue church

We drive one kilometer from Kini to the Agia Varvara (Santa Barbara) Monastery, which was founded in

1900 and exhibits icons from the life of Agia Varvara and many stunning embroideries. After Agia Varvara

we stop at a traditional loukoumi factory to see how loukoumi, also known as Turkish delight, is made.

After enjoying some samples, we return to Ermopouli.

On arriving in Ermopouli we disembark from the bus and continue on foot. We visit the Holy Cathedral of

the Dormition of the Virgin to see El Greco’s The Dormition of the Virgin, which was painted before 1567.

We then walk to the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of Metamorphosis, the first high school of modern Greece

and now part of the Aegean University. Our tour continues on to the impressive Orthodox Cathedral of

Agios Nikolaos, then up the hill to the Vaporia district, “Little Venice,” to see the neoclassical mansions built

by the island’s bankers, merchants and ship owners. We travel downhill from the Vaporia to the Apollon

Theater, the first opera house in Greece and a copy of La Scala in Milan, then on to the Museum of Cycladic

Art and the Archeological Museum, which includes a number of treasures unearthed on Syros, Paros and

Amorgos. We conclude our tour of sublime Syros in the center of Ermopouli, at the town hall in magnificent

Platia Miaouli, which is adjacent to interesting shops and atmospheric cafes.

CESME Experience Ancient Ephesus (CES-01) Half Day

We travel by bus approximately two hours to the ancient city of Ephesus, passing many typical rural Turkish

villages along the way.

Ephesus, one of the 12 cities of Ionia, is a stunning marvel in the hills above the Aegean coast. Founded by the

ancient Greeks circa 2000 BC, it became the second-largest city in the Roman Empire, at one time home to a

quarter-million people. It was the first and most significant city in the Roman province of Asia and one of its

key ports. Millennia ago the Aegean receded west, stranding the city on its sun-seared hillsides. It is believed

the Virgin Mary lived and died here, and that Paul wrote his Letter to the Ephesians here.

Ephesus is rivaled only by the Forum and the Acropolis as one of the most complete classical cities in Europe.

Stroll between the marble colonnades of Curetes Street to visit Trajan’s Fountain, Hadrian’s Temple, the Scholastica Baths and the astonishing Terrace Houses, where many of the floor mosaics are still intact. Nearby,

the spectacular Library of Celsus, which has been almost entirely reconstructed, towers above the famed

Marble Road. The Great Theater of Ephesus, where St. Paul once preached, was carved into the side of Mt. Pion

in the 4th century BC. It held up to 24,000 spectators and is still renowned for its outstanding acoustics.

There will be some free time to shop before returning to the ship.

Sole & Mare Club Alacati (CES-02) Half Day

Sole Mare Beach Club is located on Aya Yorgi Bay, beloved of Cesme locals for its turquoise waters and pristine

sand. For the past decade, Sole Mare has been a popular beach club during the day and, after sunset, one of

Cesme’s most popular nightclubs. Spend some time in one of Sole Mare’s plush sun beds or in one of its

boutique cafes, then travel with us to Alacati, a charming resort popular with the elite of Izmir, who visit year-

round to enjoy the lovingly restored homes along its cobblestone streets.

Izmir Up-Close (CES-03) Half Day

Izmir, more than 12,000 square kilometers and home to more than three million people, is Turkey’s third-

largest city. It presents itself as a modern, teeming metropolis, but as we tour Izmir its magnificent ancient

past comes alive. The remains of the ancient agora, built by Marcus Aurelius in 178 BC, lie at the heart of the

city. Our guides will also show you the only two-storey agora yet discovered – its first floor was dedicated to

trade, manufacturing and storage, its second to civic meetings and retailing. Many of the artifacts recovered

from this remarkable site are on display at Izmir’s New Archeological Museum, whose galleries are arranged

to send you on an evocative journey through history.

BODRUM Cruise by Night - A Twist of Moonlight (BOD-03) Half Day

Bodrum, once a small fishing village, has been described as the St. Tropez of Turkey, thanks to its pristine

beaches and stellar nightlife. Homer called this exquisite peninsula “the land of the eternal blue.”

Looking for the ultimate in romance upon the sparkling turquoise waters of the Aegean? Our moonlight cruise

on a private sailboat will take you deep into the eternal, romantic blue along the Bodrum coast, home to

tranquil harbors and magical bays. As night falls, savor the richness of Turkish culture with a performance by

local belly-dancers and delicious cocktails served with a twist of moonlit




… 9 …

BODRUM Shuttle Bus (BOD-04)

Our shuttle bus delivers you to the heart of Bodrum nightlife. Begin your evening out on Cumhuriyet Street

(“Bodrum Bar Street”), a mile long and crammed with restaurants, bars and nightclubs – you’ll hear live music

everywhere up and down this festive thoroughfare. Rub elbows with the jet set as you dance the night away.

We’ll pick you up downtown and drive you safely home to your ship.

KOS Asklepion - Zia - Platane of Hippocrates (KOS-01) Half Day

We start this excursion just outside Kos Town with a visit to the Asklepion, a health and healing center and a

temple to Asklepios, son of Apollo and the god of healing – built in the 4th century BC, its Doric temple dates to

the 2nd century BC. This is where Hippocrates, the father of medicine, developed and practiced many of the

healing methods we still use today.

We depart from the Asklepion for the lovely mountain village of Zia, where a spectacular panoramic view of

Kos and a number of traditional cafes and tavernas await you. Zia is fast becoming popular with local artists

and craftspeople, and you’ll find unique, handmade art and crafts on sale throughout the village. This is also a

great place to try the diverse local herbs grown near Zia and used in Greek gastronomy, and thyme honey!

While strolling about the village, make sure to visit its picturesque cathedral.

We walk through Kos Town to its main square, where we will take a guided tour of the Archeological Museum.

Its exhibition halls feature Hellenistic and Roman statuary, including a statue of Hippocrates. On our way back

to port we make a final stop at the Plane (Platanos) tree of Hippocrates, near the Knights’ Castle on the

harbor. It is said Hippocrates instructed his students under this very tree more than 2500 years ago.

Taste of Tradition with Zia (KOS-07) Half Day

Our “Taste of Tradition in Zia” tour is an excellent way to get to know the traditional side of Kos. We leave the

harbor via air conditioned bus for our first stop, a family-run winery built on some of the island’s most fertile

land, at the foot of Mt. Dikeos. You’ll have a chance to learn about winemaking and to sample some of the

winery’s outstanding wines, which are made from some of the finest local and international varieties of green

and red grapes. Our next stop is the village of Kefalos, the most south-western village on Kos. At Kefalos we’ll

visit a family of beekeepers, where you’ll learn how Greek honey is produced. You’ll also have a chance to taste

thyme honey, traditional “loukoumades” (mini honey donuts) and raki flavoured with honey.

After the beekeepers we climb to the lovely mountain village of Zia, where a spectacular panoramic view of

Kos and a number of traditional cafes and tavernas await you. Zia is fast becoming popular with local artists

and craftspeople, and you’ll find unique, handmade art and crafts on sale throughout the village. This is also a

great place to try the diverse local herbs grown near Zia and used in Greek gastronomy. While strolling about

the village, make sure to visit its picturesque cathedral.

Bravo Beach Transfer (Sold only on board) (KOS-05) Half Day

Our shuttle bus takes you to Bravo Beach, an expansive white sand beach on the northern coast of Kos. Drop

yourself in a sun bed beneath one of the beach’s palm-frond umbrellas for a few blissful hours, or challenge

yourself on a windsurfer in Bravo’s sparkling blue waters. If you’re hungry or thirsty, you can visit Bravo’s

traditional taverna or have drinks and snacks delivered, with a smile, to your sun bed.

A "Lazy Day" Cruise (KOS-06) Half Day

You’ll board our “caico” boat in Kos Harbor and set sail for the island of Pserimos, a trip of about 45 minutes

on beautiful blue seas. We will dock close to Vathy Beach, where you’ll have time to swim and relax in its

warm, clear waters. We leave Vathy Beach and sail to Vasiliki Beach for more swimming, followed by our

arrival at Pserimos Central Beach, one of the true gems of the island’s coastline – the deep blue of its waters

will astonish you. While you enjoy your third splendid swim of the day, our crew will be busy preparing a

mouthwatering buffet lunch, served on the beach. After lunch, and a bit of time to digest, we board the caico

for a relaxing return cruise to Kos harbor.

IOS Panoramic Ios, Skarkos, Chora & Maganari beach (IOS-01) Half Day (Ltd maximum participation)

From the port of Ios our bus rolls toward Skarkos, a prehistoric settlement that proves Ios has been inhabited

since the early Cycladic period. Skarkos had a modern system for the disposal of rainwater and a sewer system.

Its two-storey buildings included stone-built scales, domes, built-in door cases and stone-covered floors; inside

these buildings archeologists have found metal, bone and stone utensils and tools, as well as earthen pots and

containers, evidence of a very complex society. For its exceptional conservation efforts at Skarkos, Ios was one

of six European locations awarded the EU Cultural Heritage prize in 2008. We leave Skarkos for Chora, a

typical Cycladic village, where you’ll enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the harbor. Chora is one of the most

picturesque villages in the Cyclades – its bright white buildings line narrow streets and nestle beside twisting

staircases. Inaccessible to vehicles, it’s a paradise for pedestrians, particularly its main thoroughfare, which is

packed with unique boutiques, stylish bars, lively cafes and traditional tavernas. From Chora we drive to

magnificent Manganari Beach. The large bay at Manganari is one of the most famous in the Cyclades thanks to

its exquisite beaches. Enchanting Manganari comprises one large and four smaller, idyllic beaches, all of them

known for their soft, golden sand and transparent, aquamarine waters. Enjoy a snack in a lovely tavern, or

challenge yourself with a variety of water sports, particularly windsurfing – the beaches at Manganari are also

perfect for families with children. Welcome to paradise.




… 10 …

IOS Magnificent Maganari Beach (Sold only on board) (IOS-02) Half Day (Limited maximum

participation)

The large bay at Manganari is one of the most famous in the Cyclades, thanks to its exquisite beaches.

Enchanting Manganari comprises one large and four smaller, idyllic beaches, all of them known for their soft,

golden sand and transparent, aquamarine waters. Enjoy a snack in a lovely tavern, or challenge yourself with

a variety of water sports, particularly windsurfing – the beaches at Manganari are also perfect for families

with children. Welcome to paradise.

Magnificent Maganari Beach by Boat (Sold only on board) (IOS-04) Half Day (Limited maximum

participation)

The large bay at Manganari is one of the most famous in the Cyclades, thanks to its exquisite beaches.

Enchanting Manganari comprises one large and four smaller, idyllic beaches, all of them known for their soft,

golden sand and transparent, aquamarine waters. Enjoy a snack in a lovely tavern, or challenge yourself with

a variety of water sports, particularly windsurfing – the beaches at Manganari are also perfect for families

with children. Welcome to paradise. Let us take you there by boat!

Set sail on our Pirate Boat (IOS- 03) Half Day (Limited maximum participation)

Ahoy, mateys! Dare ye stand beneath our black sails and trust us to take you to some of the most beautiful

beaches in the Aegean? You’ll need your trusty scabbard and your sunscreen.

From port we sail southwest past a number of lovely beaches to reach the stunning bay of Agios Ioannis, where

can dive from the plank into the bay’s crystal-clear waters. After a brief swim we’ll sail to the amazing beach

at Pikri Nero, where we’ll take you 15 at a time straight to the beach, one of the true treasures of the island of

Kos and only accessible by boat. Pikri Nero is actually a cluster of three small beaches in a protected, unspoiled

cove. The landscape here is pure Cyclades, soft golden sand and transparent aquamarine water.

SANTORINI Spectacular Oia village perched on the caldera rim (SAN-01) Half Day

First you head up to the monastery of Prophet Ilias, for a breath-taking view, deep inhalations of clean, pure,

Cycladic air and memorial photos, so as to be the envy of all who didn’t come along. The tour continues its

passage towards the north.

To the east, in the background, you will have settlements like Kamari and Monolithos, while you will pass

through Fira, the small traditional villages of Firostefani and Imerovigli with delicate architecture and

beauties, to eventually arrive at the settlement of Oia. During the entire route, to the west you will have before

your eyes the lace-like caldera, the little islands of Thirasia, Palea and Nea Kameni and an unsurpassable

panoramic view. In Oia you will have plenty of time to stroll through the marble-paved alleys, to gaze at the

adorably cute shops, to take pictures, to become acquainted with the characteristic buildings, carved into the

rocks and the unusual captains’ manors, the settlement Ammoudi at the foot of the caldera… After your

curiosity has been sated of the area which is characterized as being of “exceptional natural beauty”, your

return begins …

Cruise to Santorin's islands and volcanoes (SAN-02) Half Day

The little islands of Palea and Nea Kameni are of particular geological interest, since underneath them lightly

slumbers an active volcano.

From the cruise ship you will be transported easily within a few minutes by small boat to Nea Kameni which

resembles a moon landscape! You will walk up to the verge of the crater, the heart of the volcano, a unique

geological phenomenon which will overwhelm you with awe. In Nea Kameni nowadays there is gas-steam

activity at the top of the crater, while its beaches are embraced by thermal springs.

The next stop of this special excursion, is Palea (or Palia) Kameni with its therapeutical, warm waters. The sea

temperature here is 5°C higher than in the rest of the locations and the green-yellow water contains sulphur.

After the trip to the volcano, you will have the chance to walk, take keepsake photos, to touch the magic and

energy of Fira. Finishing your trip in the main town of Santorini, you will descend by funicular (the ticket is

included in the fee of this excursion) to the Old Port to reach the cruise ship by small boat.

Off the beaten track Safari adventure (SAN-10) Half Day

This alternative excursion combines the wild, more desolate beauty of the south (SW) with the generally more

touristic eastern Santorini.

You have your driver’s license, you have the wheel in your hands, of course the camera in the glove-

compartment and your tour guide, a useful and informative compass, as your co-driver and… off we go!

You start from Akrotiri, at the south western part of the island. The light-house, next stop, the virgin Vlychada

beach then the popular Perissa beach with its black sand, Prophet Ilias, the little village Exo Gonia, which is

built amphitheatrically on a slope, the penultimate stop will be the peaceful Monolithos with its hidden

beauties and its long beach. This unforgettable excursion comes to a close at Fira.




… 11 …

SANTORINI Akrotiri Village Excavations (SAN-08)

The people who lived on prehistoric Santorini called the island “Strongyle” (round). In 1650 BC the massive

Thira volcano erupted, sinking the center of Strongyle and leaving behind an incredible caldera. You will

marvel at its towering cliffs as tender boats convey you to the port at Athinios, where our air conditioned bus

waits to take you to Santorini’s most significant archeological site, the village of Akrotiri.

From Athinios we will drive south. We will stop at the ruins of the island’s famous windmill for photos, and to

enjoy the incredible panoramic view. We leave the windmill for Akrotiri, where you’ll have a chance to explore

this ancient village – its amazing ruins will take you back in time. These advanced people built two- and three-

storey homes and grew crops, and you will marvel at the remnants of the houses, shops and workshops that

surrounded the village square thousands of years ago. Akrotiri had been a bustling town, but its inhabitants

abandoned it before the Thira eruption, a mystery archeologists and historians are still trying to solve. The ash

from the volcano buried the city, preserving many of its structures and some of its incredible frescoes. Could

Akrotiri be the lost city of Atlantis? We’ll let you decide.

After Akrotiri we’ll drive to Fira, the capital of Santorini and its largest town, where we’ll visit the Orthodox

Metropolitan Cathedral, also known as the Church of Ypapantis, famed for its elegant construction and its

beautiful frescoes, which were painted by Santorini artist Christoforos Assimis. After our visit to the cathedral,

you can linger in Fira to shop and enjoy a coffee or a snack, or you can take the Santorini Cable Car, the

teleferik to the port below, an incredible descent of more than 200 meters toward the deep blue waters of the

caldera. Our tender boats will be ready, once you disembark from the teleferik, to bring you back to the ship.

ISTANBUL Ottoman Empire and Byzantine Legacy (IST-03) Full Day

In the Old City you will visit the Byzantine Hippodrome. It had a capacity for 100,000 spectators, while the

horse racing and chariot racing that here offered an opulent spectacle. You will admire the Kaiser’s German

fountain, the bronze Serpent Column of Delphi, the Egyptian Obelisk and the Walled Obelisk of Constantine VII.

The next monument is the Mosque of Sultan Ahmed or “Blue Mosque”. It is the most beautiful mosque of

Istanbul, built upon the order of 20 year old Sultan Ahmed I, whose grave lies inside the mosque. The Church of

the Holy Wisdom of God is your next magnificent destination. Hagia Sophia is a symbol of the city and a very

important monument that is a pole of attraction not only for those seeking religious tourism. After a delicious

meal at a local restaurant, you will visit the Topkapi Palace. In the interior of the Palace, which is declared a

World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

For the end of this excursion you will have plenty of free time to stroll around the maze-like complex of the

Grand Bazaar; where 400,000 visitors meet daily, among the 4,000 shops and 58 streets!


other souvenirs.

Religious visit to Orthodox churches and Greek Patriarchate (IST-15) Full Day

After passing briefly through the commercial center of the modern city and the Galata Bridge, you will reach

the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople at Fener. Here, a visit to the Patriarchal Church of St. George is

a must. Next stop, the Church of the Holy Savior in Chora, also known as Kariye Mosque, which is considered as

the second most important monument in Istanbul after Hagia Sophia and one of the largest galleries of

Byzantine mosaics internationally. In the Spice Bazaar or Egyptian Bazaar that follows, you will have the free

time to explore, smell and touch a great variety of imported seasonings, confectionery, nuts, cheeses and

delicatessen meats. For the conclusion of the excursion, you will have the opportunity to “lose yourself” in the

Grand Bazaar, the Kapali Carsi with its 4,000 shops.


other souvenirs.


other souvenirs.

Discover the hidden secrets of Sultanahmet Square (IST-13) Half Day

The Mosque of Sultan Ahmed or “Blue Mosque” was built upon the orders of 20 year old Sultan Ahmed I,

whose grave lies inside the mosque.

The tour will bring you to the symbol of Constantinople (Istanbul’s historical name): Hagia Sophia. The

Byzantine Shrine of the Holy Wisdom of God was the Orthodox Cathedral of Constantinople. After the conquest

of the city by the Ottomans, it was turned into a mosque until 1934, when it became a museum.

Your next destination is an entire world hidden under the surface of the city. The Cistern of Philoxenos or else

the “Sunken Palace”, Justinian’s water reservoir was constructed in 535 A.D. The 336 marble columns, of Doric,

Ionian and Corinthian order, which tower to 9 meters in height (30 ft) are characteristic. At the end of the

chamber you will be impressed by the two carved column bases featuring the mythological Medusa head.




… 12 …

ISTANBUL Bosporus Cruise from Europe to Asia (IST-12) Half Day

Board your coach and start your tour with a drive to Asian Continent. Enjoy the magnificent view while

crossing the Bosphorus Bridge which is one of two suspension bridges spanning the Bosporus strait connecting

Europe and Asia. Once you are in the asian continent drive to Beylerbeyi palace. Visit the famous Palace built

between 1861-1865 by Sultan Abdulaziz on the eastern shore of the Bosphorus. It is much smaller than

Dolmabahce palace and it was the Sultans' summer palace. Important foreign guests visiting the Ottoman

Empire were accommodated in this palace during the summer months; Prince of Serbia, King Nicholas of

Montenegro, Emperor Joseph of Austro-Hungary, Shah Nasireddin of Iran, Prince Oscar of Sweden, and

Empress Eugenie of France were some of them. Sultan Abdulhamid II spent the last 6 years of his life and died

here in 1918.The palace is divided into men’s section (Selamlik) and women's section (Harem) having separate

entrances for both. The Selamlik was used for State functions therefore was very ornate, meanwhile the Harem

was reserved only to the ladies and with a simpler decoration. Take a short walk to your cruise boat waiting

for your enchanted trip on the Bosphorus. While sailing admire Dolmabahce and Ciragan Palaces, glide under

the Bosphorus and Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridges , see the Anatolian Fortress and Kanlica and take greateast

photographs while cruising between the two continents’ shores. Debark from your boat and after a few meters

visit the Zindan Han (Dungeon Inn) Jewelry Store. Part of the Han was built during the 9th century and used as

a dungeon which during the Ottoman era for thirsty years was used as a women only prison. Therefore it is

said to be the first prison for women and witnesses of the crime history in the Ottoman Empire. A three floor

trading house had been added to the dungeon during the 19th century. Today the worldwide famous jewelry

store houses both the dungeon and the trade house. Before you return to your ship have some free time to

stroll around the floors of the shop while tasting your local tea or coffee.

CRETE The crystal - clear waters of Elounda & Spinalonga (AGH-03) Half Day

We drive from Agios Nikolaos to the resort of Elounda, an unforgettable beauty famed throughout the Aegean

for its gorgeous green hills, its sugar-sand beaches and its pristine, inviting sea. From Elounda we sail the calm

waters of the Bay of Elounda for the island fortress of Spinalonga, a former Venetian bastion and, until 1957, a

leper colony. Spinalonga also features in Victoria Hislop’s debut novel, The Island, which was adapted by Greek

television channel Mega into a 26-part drama, To Nisi, the most successful television series ever broadcast in

Greece. We leave Spinalonga for a small nearby bay to swim in its turquoise waters and enjoy a barbecue on

the beach.

A Delectable Day in Crete (AGH- 02) Half Day

From Agios Nikolaos we drive to Elounda, a quiet resort on the beautiful Bay of Elounda – its hotels have been

designed to complement the area’s rocky geography and turquoise waters. Elounda is an unforgettable beauty,

famed throughout the Aegean for its gorgeous green hills, its sugar-sand beaches and its pristine, inviting sea.

We leave Elounda for lovely Kritsa. Enjoy an incredible view of the Bay of Elounda and spectacular Mirabello

Bay, then wander the narrow streets of this traditional village. Its residents are known for planting flowers

and fruit trees in their courtyards and on the balconies and terraces of their houses.

After Kritsa we continue to a local olive farm we particularly love – the owners have designed all of its 2,000

square meters to embrace Cretan countryside life. Olive oil, wine and raki, the traditional drink of Crete, are

produced here using traditional methods from the early 20th century. On arrival you will be welcomed with a

glass of raki and with a snack of traditional Cretan meze. Enjoy the local delicious snacks while you thrill to a

performance of Cretan music and folk dances.

We leave the olive farm and return to picturesque Agios Nikolaos, the St. Tropez of Crete and home to many

charming cafes and restaurants. The city’s most famous landmark is a small lake in the center of the city at the

foot of a cliff – the lake, known as “Voulismeni," is where the goddess, Athena, used to bathe. Also noteworthy

here, in the capital of Eastern Crete, are the Archeological Museum and the cathedral, just southwest of the

lake on Platia Venizelou.

The Minoan Palace of Knossos & Cosmopolitan Heraklion (AGH-06) Half Day

We travel by air-conditioned bus to the Minoan Palace of Knossos. Knossos, the capital of the Minoan

civilization, was the first civilization in Europe. The hill of Kephala, which hoists the Palace above a valley of

pines a few miles outside Heraklion, has been continuously inhabited since 7000 BC.

The Minoan civilization, which endured for about 2000 years, was one of the most advanced in the ancient

world, and Knossos is one of the instances in which Greek mythology might dovetail with archeological fact.

Minos, a legendary king and lawgiver of Crete, was one of Europa’s three sons, all born after her tryst with

Zeus, who appeared to Europa as a white bull and carried her off to Crete. The frescoed Palace at Knossos,

which comprises more than 1500 rooms and occupies more than 20,000 square meters, may have been the

mythical labyrinth designed by Daedalus wherein Minos imprisoned the Minotaur, a monstrous half-bull, half

man born to his wife, Pasiphaë, who was impregnated by a bull sent by Poseidon.

We depart from Knossos to bustling Heraklion, the city of Hercules and the resting place of Nikos Kazantzakis,

Crete’s most famous son and the author of Zorba the Greek. Within the Venetian walls of Heraklion, a busy

metropolitan port and the capital of Crete, you’ll find unique shops and many lively cafes.




… 13 …

CRETE Cretan Jeep Safari (AGH-07) Half Day

This tour will give you the opportunity not only to discover, see and learn the wild Cretan landscape, meet local

people, enjoy typical Cretan villages, but also have great fun as a team hunting for the treasure. In every jeep

will be a team of 4 persons that will be given printed material with allegoric maps. During stops on the route

and, off-course limited time, you will have to use your imagination in search of hidden trails that, actually

represent points.

The team with the most points will be the winner. The top three winners will receive, respectively, gold, silver

and bronze metals at a small ceremony during dinner in the evening.

River Trekking (AGH-05) Half Day

The amazing Richtis Gorge is between Agios Nikolaos and Sitia, on the north of Eastern Crete, and there is

water flowing through the gorge year-round. Our hike, which takes between three and four hours, begins just

outside the village of Exo Mouliana, at the Lachanas Bridge, a stone arch built in the 19th century. We will

travel approximately three kilometers along the gorge, to Richtis Beach, and we will climb about 350 meters

total.

The mountain rises above us as we hike, and throughout our journey the air is redolent with the scent of local

herbs and flowers, including oleander and sage. The highlight of our trek is the Richtis Gorge waterfall, from

which water cascades year-round from a height of more than 20 meters. We will also pass abandoned water

mills, which lie in the gorge like footprints from the past. We finish our hike at beautiful Richtis Beach, a pebble

beach near the village of Kalabro, where we’ll rest and regroup at stone picnic tables under tamarisk trees

before returning to the ship.

RHODES Medieval tour - Acropolis of Lindos and the Citadel of the knights (RHO-01) Half Day

Lindos is situated 55 km (40 miles) from the city of Rhodes and “bears” above it the Acropolis of Lindos, with

the ancient Temple of Athena, built in 300 B.C.

Here and there you will come across the captains’ mansions, built between the 16th and 18th century. In the

centre of the village lives and breathes the Church of the Virgin Mary (Panagia) of Lindos, with frescoes from

the 15th century.

Ascend to the Acropolis of Lindos. Here lies the Temple of Athena, of Doric order, which was erected on the

location of an older monument. The ancient city-state of Lindos was for many centuries the most important on

the island. It reached its heyday in the 6th century B.C.

At the old city of Rhodes you will go through D’Amboise Gate to walk on the Street of the Knights. Along this

street you will find the residences of the Knights, separated according to Order, which bear until today their

corresponding crests.

Medieval tour - Philerimos church & Palace of the knights (RHO-02) Half Day

The Acropolis of ancient Rhodes stands proudly on the hill of St. Stephanos, also called Monte Smith. You will

wander through the ruins of the Hellenistic Temple of Apollo, with its amazing columns. Further below, the

restored Ancient Stadium of Diagoras once hosted games in honour of the sun god Helios.

The next destination is Philerimos, to the northwest, one of the great touristic attractions of the island. The hill

of Philerimos, above the homonymous bay, once “hosted” ancient Ialyssos, one of the three Rhodian cities that

participated in the Trojan War. Stone steps surrounded by cypresses lead to the Gothic Monastery of Our Lady

of Philerimos, dedicated to the Virgin Mary (the Life Giving Source). In the area you will also visit the

Byzantine Church of St. George Hostos, with rare frescoes from the 14th-15th century which depict knights. Here

also resides the “Golgotha”, a path of 12 copper reliefs which depict the Passion of Christ.

Back to the city of Rhodes where you will stroll through the Street of the Knights, all the way up to the Palace

of the Grand Master. Castello.

Walking tour in the Medieval City of Rhodes (RHO-11) Half Day

Walking along the paved Street of the Knights, one of the best preserved medieval arteries, you will come

across residences of people of several different historic nationalities, who once belonged to the Order of the

Knights of St. John of Jerusalem.

Before you reach the Palace of the Grand Master, you will bide for a while around the area of Bourgos and the

Mosque of Suleiman the Magnificent, erected in 1808, the Turkish Baths, the Hospital of the Knights in

Museum Square the Church of Our Lady of the Castle, which has guarded the place since the 11th century A.D.

The pinnacle of this tour in the Medieval City of Rhodes is Castello. The Palace of the Grand Master is a

magnificent, endless edifice, the most important sight of the Old Town.

Tsampika Beach Transfer - sold on board only (RHO-08) Half Day

Bus transfer to beautiful Tsampika beach. Tsampika is an organized beach with all modern facilities (not

included in the price).




… 14 …

SYMI Our savory Symi BBQ Cruise (SYM-03)

Let us take you for a delicious barbecue and a refreshing swim on the unspoiled, uninhabited island of Nimos

just north of Symi. Known as Ymos to the ancient Greeks, today the island is an untouched natural wonderland

and a protected archeological site. We’ll sail in traditional boats, “caici” from Symi harbor to Nimos, where

we’ll swim in its pristine blue waters and enjoy a festive beach barbecue.

Please note the minimum number of passengers for this excursion is 30, maximum 60.

CHIOS The "Ghost" town of Anavatos, Nea Moni, Chios Town (CHI-02) Half Day

We leave the port of Chios and travel the panoramic road that climbs the foothills of Mount Provatas to the

center of the island to tour Nea Moni Monastery, one of the most famous structures of the Byzantine period.

The main church is an important example of Byzantine architecture in the Aegean – its catholicon is decorated

with spectacular mosaics which are famed the world over as the pinnacle of this art form. The Cistern, which

dates from the 11th century, is still intact and has also been lovingly preserved.

Nea Moni was founded by Byzantine emperor Constantine IX Monomachos in the middle of the 11th century

and was, for many centuries, the religious center of Chios until its near-destruction in the 19th century. In 1822,

during the Greek War for Independence, many Chians took refuge in the monastery, where they were

ultimately slaughtered. Later, in 1881, an earthquake brought about the collapse of the dome and the bell

tower and the destruction of many mosaics.

The “ghost town” village of Anavantos is a national monument in honor of the Chians who lost their lives in

1822. Built into a hillside 450 meters above the sea, the exterior walls of many of its 400 houses are part of its

perimeter fortification. Within the walls, its small structures are an architectural marvel, narrow

constructions of gray stone with flat wooden roofs, low doors, tiny arched windows and wooden terraces.

Following our tour of Anavantos we will enjoy a coffee break at a small cafe in the village before our return to

Chios harbor.

The best of Chios Town and Spoon sweet Citrus (CHI-04) Half Day

Chios Town has always been the capital of Chios and the island’s commercial and cultural center. Its castle –

built by the Genoese during their occupation of the island, between the 12th and 14th centuries – looks out

toward the harbor. Our tour takes you on a walk through the narrow streets of the fortress, past the old

Turkish graveyard and the mosque. We will also visit the Giustiniani Museum, the former home of the island’s

governors, where you’ll find unique icons and 14th century frescoes. Our tour takes you through the central

square of Chios Town and through its public gardens. From there we stroll down the town’s main market

street, past the cathedral and the Korais Library.

We return to the harbor and drive north for a short photo stop at the famous windmills of Chios. From the

windmills we journey to Daskalopetra (Teacher’s Stone) which, according to local legend, is where Homer

narrated his poems and taught his students – Chios is one of seven places claiming to be the birthplace of the

legendary blind poet of antiquity.

We drive from Daskalopetra toward the orange and lemon plantations approximately seven kilometres south

of Chios Town, to the village of Kambos, long the island’s center of citrus production. The two-storey mansions

of Kambos, which are distinctive for their high, frescoed ceilings, large windows and expansive verandas, were

built amongst the plantations by the Genoese and wealthy Chians of the period.

The Xydas family operates a small cafe and citrus museum on one of these grand estates. Visitors to the

museum can study the history of the people of Kambos and see authentic tools used in the cultivation of the

areas lemon and orange trees. After your visit to the museum, enjoy a Greek coffee and a locally-made spoon

sweet in the courtyard of the estate.

Mesta Anavatos (CHI-05) Half Day

The village of Mesta is the most distant of the medieval villages but it is also the most well-preserved. the form

and architecture here is totally unique. The houses are build side-by-side to each-other, so tightly that there

are only two entrances to the village. The streets are very narrow, and most of them are covered with arches

and vaults. The whole village has been intendently planned and built as a maze, in order to prevent the pirate

raiding parties from reaching easily the most important buildings located in the center of the village. The

oldest monument of Mesta is the church of Palaios (=Old) Taxiarchis on the north-west part. It was originally a

vaulted one-nave basilica, dating from the Byzantine period. In 1794 it was extended to become two-aisled.

Some traces of old wallpaintings can be seen, although most of them have been covered with plaster. The

iconostasis of the church is wood carved and an excellent example of local woodwork (finished in 1833).

About 17 kilometers West from the city of Chios is the village of Anavatos. It is built on a rocky elevation with

sides so steep it can only be approach from one point. The natural defenses of the site make it probable it was

originally founded to control the island's west coast during the period of piracy. The village is now completely

deserted but the overall shape of the settlement is quite well-preserved to give a unique picture of a ghost town

surrounded by a wild and rough natural environment.




… 15 …

CHIOS Karfas Beach Transfer (Sold only on board) (CHI-06) Half Day

Located a few kilometers south of the city, this is perhaps the most popular beach on the island. It offers full

services and a wide range of water sports since it is next to an area where some of the biggest hotels of the

islands are built. Restaurants, bars, shops, hotels and rooms, car rentals are within walk-distance from the

beach. The water is very shallow and warm in most of the area of Karfas Bay, and therefore the beach is

especially suitable for families with little children. During the high-season time in the mid-summer, the beach

can sometimes get a little bit too overcrowded, since it is popular among both locals and tourists.

greece · milos step back in time mil -02 59 33 4 hrs our amazing beaches tour mil -03 33 20 4 hrs...

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