| Piraeus - Athens - Greece | |
|
ATHENS CITY TOUR &
ACROPOLIS |
|
|
Take a short drive to Athens, the cradle of the Europe's earliest civilization. For twenty-five centuries, the panorama of this city is dominated by the rock "The Acropolis". After a short drive past many of the city's marina's and along the city's main Avenue of Syngrou, walk uphill to visit the Acropolis and see the principal buildings: the Propylaia, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion and the magnificent Parthenon. During your visit, you will also have some free time to admire the spectacular views from this point of Athens. Continue with a panoramic tour of the city, where you will view the Olympieion (the Temple of Olympian Zeus) from the 6th Century BC, one of the largest Corynthian style temples in Greek history and Hadrian's Arch (2nd Century AD), which divided the Greek city from Hadrian's new Roman city. Arriving at Syntagma Square (Constitution Square), see the Royal Palace, built for Otto I of Bavaria and the present day Parliament. In front of the Palace stands the Monument of the Unknown Soldier where two soldiers (Evzoni) stand guard continuously in the traditional war uniform. Drive further along and pass the University, Academy and Library before arriving at the Stadium, which stands on the site of the Ancient Stadium laid out under Lycurgus in the 4th Century BC and rebuilt in 1896 on its original plan for the modern Olympic Games. Drive again via Syngrou Avenue to return to Piraeus and the ship. |
|
|
|
| . . |
|
| Heraklion - Greece | |
|
THE PALACE OF KNOSSOS & ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM |
|
|
Enjoy a drive from the Venetian lion-guarded port of Heraklion town to Knossos (approximately 30 minutes), once the capital city of the prehistoric Minoan civilization, and thought to be the basis for the original Labyrinth housing the mythological Minotaur. Follow your guide in order to visit a portion of the excavated and partially reconstructed Palace of King Minos, as well as the surrounding area. The Palace houses the Hall of the Royal Guard. Decorated with frescoes and shields, the Hall of the Double Axes, the King's Chamber housing the alabaster throne amidst paintings of griffins and lilies and the Queen's Apartment, adorned with murals of dolphins and spirals reminding us of the legend of the Labyrinth, also viewing beautiful courtyards & shrines. Return to your motorcoach and drive to the city of Heraklion where you have the choice to either enjoy a guided tour through the extraordinary Archaeological Museum, viewing the unique original items from the Minoan culture or spend free time in town to browse at the shops. Afterwards, return to the port by your motorcoach in time for ship's departure. |
|
|
|
| . | |
| PANORAMIC
HERAKLION BY AIR-CONDITIONED MOTORCOACH/ FOOT DURATION: 4 HOURS MINIMUM: 20 PERSONS |
|
| Your tour begins from the Venetian lion-guarded port of Heraklion and having a scenic drive through the city to the famous wine producing of Peza, south of Heraklion. Driving through breathtaking landscape of coutryside and vineyards wich have been there since Minoan times on your way to your first stop, a modern winery, where you will see the updated procedures of wine making and sample some of the delicious Cretan wines. Your drive continues through rural villages at the village of Archanes, the municipality in the area. On the way a photo stop is made at Vathypetro to view one of the oldest farmhouses of Crete, dating to the Minoan period 16th century BC. Your tour continues through the island's hilly countryside where olive groves and vineyards existed from as far back as 4000 years. Arriving to the village of Archanes, which is situated 10km south of the Palace of Knossos, the quaint market town of Archanes has many restored sandstone houses dating from the Turkish period. At a local taverna in the villages' tree-shaded square, you can sample an assortment of Cretan snacks and locally produced wine along with mingling with many of the locals themselves. Free time to browse will be given before the return drive to the port of Heraklion and the ship. | |
| . . |
|
| Santorini - Greece | |
|
ISLAND TOUR & OIA VILLAGE |
|
|
Sailing into the Caldera of Santorini is like floating inside a giant open-air geological museum. Oia Village is the crowning glory of peace and tranquility. Built on the northern tip of the Caldera rim, it is here where many artists have been inspired due to its magnificent location. As you will see for yourself, it has "out of this world" views of the Caldera, the island itself, and many of the broken off islands surrounding the Caldera and Aegean Sea. Enjoy a short trip by boat to Athineos Harbor where you will meet up with your motorcoach and guide. Drive uphill along the rocky sides of the Caldera and pass through many traditional villages in order to reach the listed settlement and unique village of Oia, with its typically Cycladic architecture and its houses perched on the cliffs edge like seagulls poised for flight on this dramatic cliff-side. Accompanied by your guide, walk through the village along cobble-stoned streets marveling at the breathtaking panoramic views and admiring the traditional architecture. Enjoy free time on your own, where you may either wander through the many art galleries available or perhaps relax over a coffee. At the specified place and time, meet back up with your guide and make your way to Fira, the capital town of the island, built on the center of the Caldera rim. Enjoy the town at your own leisure and return to the small pier of Scala by cable car or mule, where the vessel's tendering service awaits to take you back to your ship. |
|
|
|
|
SANTORINI SAILING & VOLCANO |
|
| Starting
end MAY Enjoy a cruise around the active crater of Nea Kameni islet. Sail along the peculiar formations of its volcanic shores, where black lava rocks and white pumice are combined beautifully with the red color of lava. Take a walk to the top of the volcanic island where sulphur is spewed into the air by one of the craters. Enjoy this surreal landscape as your guide narrates the creation and history of the volcano and the last eruption leading to the destruction of the island of Santorini. The tidal wave created by the eruption was of such an immense magnitude, it destroyed the thriving city of Knossos on the island of Crete. As your caique enters the narrows of the two lava islets, Palea and Nea Kameni, note the changing colors of the water from dark blue to sulphur green. In the background, admire the breathtaking sight of Fira Town with its white washed houses clinging precariously on the rim of the Caldera. Take time to swim in the warm waters heated by Hot Springs on the sea floor. Sail to Athinios port, where your motorcoach will take you to Fira Town, the island's capital where the tour ends and you will have free time to walk around on your own or shop. Later, use your tour ticket to ride the mules or the cable car to descend to Skala, the pier at the bottom of the cliff where ship's tenders will be waiting to take you back to the ship. TAKE NOTE! |
|
|
|
| Port Said - Egypt | |
|
CAIRO & THE PYRAMIDS OF GIZA |
|
|
In a convoy of luxury air-conditioned coaches depart from Port Said City for Cairo through reclaimed cultivated desert and industrial towns. Drive through the busy streets of Cairo to Tahrir (Liberty) Square, where the Egyptian Antiquities Museum is situated. Here, you will have the opportunity to acquaint yourself with Egypt's ancient history spanning a period of 50 centuries. The Museum is the repository of the world's largest and richest collection of Egyptian Antiquities, amongst them the magnificent Tutankhamun collection. Your next stop will be the Giza Plateau where the only remaining Wonder of the Ancient World, the Great Pyramids of Giza still stand. A panoramic view of the Pyramids from the Western Plateau affords great opportunities for superb photographs. Marvel at the Pyramids up close where time will be allowed to explore on one's own. Later, continue down the valley where the guardian of this mortuary complex, the mighty Sphinx, observes the passage of time and men in aeons of silence, its mysterious expression an enigma yet to be unravelled. Take time out to enjoy a sumptuous buffet spread at a Leading Cairo Deluxe Hotel. Before you commence the return drive to Port Said, a short stop will take place at a Papyrus Institute, where the procedure of manufacturing the oldest paper in the world, an art discovered by the Ancient Egyptians will be demonstrated. Limited time for souvenir shopping will also be allocated. TAKE NOTE! |
|
|
|
| CAIRO & THE PYRAMIDS OF SAKKARA BY: AIR-CONDITIONED MOTORCOACH / FOOT DURATION: FULL DAY MINIMUM 40 PERSONS |
|
|
In a convoy of luxury air-conditioned coaches depart from Port Said proceeding to Cairo. Upon arrival in the city, continue southwards to Egypt's first ancient capital, Memphis. Your visit to Egypt's ancient capital will include the colossal statue of Ramses II, the Alabaster Sphinx of King Amenophis II and the ruins of the Temple of
Ptah. Four miles from Memphis at the oldest ancient Egyptian cemetery of Sakkara stands the world's first monumental stone building, the Step Pyramid of king
Zoser. Constructed by the engineer Imhotep, it dates back to more than four and a half thousand years. After visiting the complex, proceed to the magnificent Mastabas (funerary chambers) nearby, such as those of
Ptah-Hotep, Mereruca, Idut or Ti for an inside visit. Your next stop will be the Giza Plateau where the only remaining Wonder of the Ancient World, the Great Pyramids of Giza still stand. A panoramic view of the Pyramids from the Western Plateau affords great opportunities for superb photographs. Marvel at the Pyramids up close where time will be allowed to explore on one's own. Later, continue down the valley where the guardian of this mortuary complex, the mighty Sphinx, observes the passage of time and men in aeons of silence, its mysterious expression an enigma yet to be
unravelled. Take time out, sit back and enjoy a sumptuous buffet spread at a Leading Cairo Deluxe Hotel. Afterwards, a short stop will take place at a Papyrus Institute, where the procedure of manufacturing the oldest paper in the world, an art discovered by the Ancient Egyptians will be demonstrated and limited time for souvenir shopping will be allocated before you return to Port Said. TAKE NOTE! |
|
|
|
| CAMEL & JEEP SAFARI BY: AIR-CONDITIONED MOTORCOACH / FOOT DURATION: FULL DAY MINIMUM 20 PERSONS |
|
|
Leaving Port Said in a convoy of luxury air conditioned coaches, the drive through desolate expanse of desert and reclaimed, cultivated land will fascinate you as you approach Cairo, Africa's largest city. Your first stop will be at the Western Plateau of Gizeh, where a panoramic view of the only remaining Wonder of the Ancient World still stands, the Pyramids of Gizeh, offering great opportunities for photographs. Later your coach will stop near the Pyramid of Chephren and free time to explore the site will be allocated. Continue down the valley where the mysterious Sphinx lies, guarding this mortuary complex in aeons of silence. Your tour continues with a drive through rural areas and cultivated fields towards Sakkara Country Club to the awaiting four wheeled air conditioned jeeps for a drive into the desert, towards a designated place where a camel caravan is waiting for you. Experienced camel drivers will lead your camel on a trip in the desert in caravan formation. Feel the desert wind in your hair and sway to the motion of your camel as it strides in leisurely pace through the naked beauty of a desolate and harsh environment. Capture the spirit of the Bedouin as you cross towards Sakkara Country Club, an oasis of welcomed destination. Here, a country club style lunch will be served for your enjoyment. After lunch board your waiting motorcoaches and proceed to Sakkara, Egypt's ancient cemetery. Visit the Step Pyramid of King Zoser, the first monumental building in the world. Return to Cairo and visit a Papyrus Institute where a demonstration will introduce you to the art of paper making from reeds, a science discovered by the Ancient Egyptians. Limited time for souvenir shopping will also be allocated before you commence your return drive to Port Said. TAKE NOTE! |
|
|
|
| . . |
|
| Alexandria - Egypt | |
|
THE CITY OF ALEXANDRIA - GRECO ROMAN ALEXANDRIA |
|
|
Lying northwest of the Nile Delta, Alexandria is the largest port in the Arab Republic of Egypt, one of the major summer resorts on the Mediterranean Sea. Visit the Greco-Roman Museum housing forty thousand invaluable relics dating as far back as the 3rd century B.C. The Tanagra figurines are one of the priceless treasures to be seen in the museum, giving detailed information on the hairstyles and dress of the ladies during the reign of Queen Cleopatra. Visit the Roman Amphitheater in Kom El Dekka, an area located close to the Roman Museum. With twelve marble terraces forming a semicircle is considered the only one of its kind in Egypt. Enjoy a scenic drive to Montaza Gardens where you will view the summer residence palace of the former king of Egypt, Farouk. On the return drive to the ship you will see two important and beautiful landmarks. Alexandria's Abu El Abass Mosque with its tall minaret and four domes and the Qait Bey Fort, built on the original site of the Pharos - Alexandria's lighthouse and one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. |
|
|
|
|
JEWELS, PILLARS AND TOMBS |
|
| Depart from the pier for a drive through the colorful streets of Alexandria viewing beautiful architecture and experiencing the charming aura and nostalgia of yesteryear. In Mansheya square view the equestrian statue of Mohamed Ali, founder of modern Egypt. Your first stop will be at the Royal Jewellery Museum, a magnificent example of architectural splendour. Its halls house several paintings, decorations and rare statues and is a showcase for the family jewels of Mohamed Ali, the founder of modern Egypt. The collection includes rare and invaluable pieces. Continue to the catacombs of Shawqafa an eerie and extensive three level funerary complex dating from the 2nd century A.D. Nearby the Pillar of Pompeii, a 25 meter high granite column amidst ruins of the Serapium Temple, erected in honour of Emperor Diocletian will be your next visit. At Qait Bey Fort, built on the original site of the Pharos, Alexandria's lighthouse which was one of the seven Wonders of the Ancient World you will make a short stop photographs. On the return to the ship you will also see Abu El Abass mosque with its tall minarets and four domes and the Marble Monument dedicated to the Unknown Soldier flanked by its guard of honor in attention. |
|
| .. . |
|
| Rhodes - Greece | |
|
RHODES & LINDOS EXCURSION |
|
|
Leaving the harbor area, you will drive along the picturesque eastern coastline, scattered with white-washed villages, until you reach Lindos. (A drive of approximately 45 minutes). This enchanting site of the most important of the three great cities of ancient times is guarded by the medieval walls constructed by the Knights of St. John in the 13th century. The ancient Acropolis of Lindos within stand on the brink of a precipice 400 feet above sea level. From the Acropolis you will stand in awe with the breathtaking views of the great expanse of the Pelagus and St. Paul's Bay, which is where the Apostle cast anchor during his historic voyage to
Ephesus. You will proceed, on foot, up the Great staircase leading from the Hellenistic portico to the Temple of Athena, considered the most worshipped temple of the Ancient Greek World. After your visit to the Acropolis there will be some time for shopping in the interesting little shops that line the narrow streets of this attractive village. You will rejoin the
motor coaches and drive back to the town of Rhodes where you will commence your walking tour of the Old Medieval City of Rhodes at the Port d'Amboise and stroll through the Medieval Old City, down through Chevaliers Road and view the Palace of the Knights of St. John not to mention the medieval houses of the Knights. Continue on and pass by the Hospital of the Knights of St. John, before meeting back up with your
motor coach at the Marine Gate. |
|
|
|
| . | |
| OLD CITY AND PHILERIMOS BY AIR-CONDITIONED MOTORCOACH / FOOT DURATION: 3 HOURS MINIMUM: 20 PERSONS |
|
| Drive along the medieval walls to the summit of Mount Smith, the Acropolis of Ancient Rhodes. From the tumbled massive pillars of Temple of Athena, the view encompasses the nearby Temple of Apollo, the Stadium of Diagoras and the port, which was once protected by the Colossus of Rhodes - one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The drive continues across the island to Philerimos. The summit of Philerimos was the site of Ialysos, one of the three ancient cities of Rhodes. Later remains include the restored Byzantine Church of Our Lady of Philerimos, a chapel with 15th century frescoes and a ruined castle of the Knights. After the visit and free time, you will return to the Old City of Rhodes and begin a guided walk of the Medieval walled city to the Porte d'Amboise. It will be a pleasure to stroll the Street of the Knights with its medieval buildings, winding alleys, towers, turrets and emblazoned facades. Then visit the impressive Grand Masters Palace and have the chance to see, among others, the superb mosaics. After your pleasant walk, pass through the Marine Gate to meet up with your motorcoach and return to the ship. TAKE NOTE! |
|
|
|
| . . |
|
| Kusadasi - Turkey | |
|
EPHESSOS
& THE HOUSE OF THE VIRGIN MARY |
|
|
Begin your tour with a Drive through the colorful and bustling town of Kusadasi and along the coastal highway until you reach Mt. Koressos. Situated in a small valley, you will visit the humble chapel, which lies on the site of the little house where The Virgin Mary resided after the crucifixion and is believed to have spent her last days. Despite the many controversies, the Christian World still favors this belief and the site, has been officially sanctioned by the Vatican for pilgrimage. Continue on to the site of Ancient Ephessos and accompanied by your Turkish guide, walk through the Magnesian Gate, which is the entrance to the ancient city of Ephessos. Your guided walking tour will take you through one of the most magnificent excavated cities in the world. See the Odeon (concert hall), the Fountain of Trajan, the steam-heated Baths of Scolastika, the Temple of Hadrian and the Latrians, the Library of Celsus and The Great Theatre of Ephessos, where St. Paul preached, which is the largest theatre in antiquity with a capacity of 24,000. Walk back to your motor coach along the Arcadian Way, which is where Mark Anthony and Cleopatra once rode in procession as newlyweds. While driving back to Kusadasi and just outside Ephessos, view the Basilica of St. John, which was erected over his grave in the 6th Century AD by the Emperor Justinian. Dust downhill, lies the site of the famous Temple of Diana, today in ruins. Before returning to the ship, enjoy free time in Kusadasi to shop for every conceivable item, such as carpets, jewelry, local souvenirs, leather goods and Turkish delights. |
|
| . . |
|
|
ANCIENT
EPHESSOS |
|
| Drive along Through the colourful town of Kusadasi the coast and into the verdant countryside to reach Ephessos, famous in antiquity for its Temple of Diana - one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World - and later the home of St. John. During the years of the Roman Empire, the Greek port of Ephessos became the greatest city in Asia Minor. Upon arrival at Ephessos, follow your guide, to enter this amazing ancient city through the Magnesian Gate. Discover innumerable monuments including the Forum, the Odeon, the Library of
Celsus, the Thermal Baths of Scolastika and the Great Theatre of Antiquity built in the Greek era and reconstructed in the Roman period, which is still noted for its remarkable acoustics. Walk back to your motorcoach along the Arcadian Way, where Mark Antony and Cleopatra once rode in procession. As you drive back to Kusadasi, on a hill above
Selcuk, just outside Ephessos, view the Basilica of St. John, which was erected over his grave in the 6th Century AD by the Emperor
Justinian. And just downhill, lies the site of the famous Temple of Diana, today in ruins. Before returning to the ship, enjoy free time in Kusadasi to shop for every conceivable item, such as carpets, jewelry, local souvenirs, leather goods and Turkish delights. . |
|
| . |
|
|
Patmos - Greece |
|
| THE
MONASTERY OF ST JOHN & GROTTO BY AIR-CONDITIONED MOTORCOACH / FOOT DURATION: 2 HOURS MINIMUM 20 PERSONS |
|
| Depart from the port of Scala and enjoy a short journey to the Chora main village, where the Monastery of St. John is built within the walls of a strong fortification. As you walk uphill towards the entrance of the Monastery marvel at this magnificent structure which was built 900 years ago, exceptional in its architecture. View the courtyard, the Monks' dinning room and the old bakery before you visit the main church noting its outstanding frescoes and interior decoration. Next, see the priceless ecclesiastical treasures housed in the beautiful small museum: books and manuscripts, mosaics, icons, splendid medieval textiles and vestments as well as jewelry. Return to your motorcoach to continue on to the nearby Grotto of the Apocalypse, above with stands the church of the Apocalypse, a sub-unit of the main Monastery. Walk down the steps to visit the Grotto of the Apocalypse. Here you will see the silver niches in the wall, that mark the pillow and ledge used as a desk by the author of the Book of Revelations as well as the three-fold crack made by the Voice of God emphasizing the honor of the Trinity. Afterwards, drive back to the port of Scala and enjoy some free time in this quaint and picturesque harbor. TAKE NOTE! |
|
|
|
| . | |
| SCENIC
TOUR AROUND THE ISLAND BY AIR-CONDITIONED MOTORCOACH DURATION: 2 ½ HOURS MINIMUM : 20 PERSONS |
|
| An interesting scenic island tour has been designed for those guests who prefer to discover the beauties of Patmos within the comfort of your air-conditioned motorcoach. Commencing your tour from the port of Skala you will drive to the dominating central part of the island "Chora" which is the location of the Majestic Byzantine Monastery of St. John the Divine, built in 1088. Your sightseeing will first bring you to the windmills of Chora, once the landmark of all Aegean islands. Enjoy the view, take photos and continue to visit the new active convent of Evangelismos (Annunciation) in the south part of the island, which has a significant number of nuns who follow the traditions. Afterwards, continue your drive around the island to see its landscape of outstanding natural beauty comprised of rocky hills. Dozens of tongues of land reaching out into the sea tranquil beaches and many picturesque inlets, before you arrive to the village of Kambos located in the north part of the island, where you will be welcomed with a refreshment and a traditional local sweet. Ending your tour in the port of Scala you may enjoy some free time in this quaint and picturesque little harbor. | |
| . | |
| . | |
|
|
| . | |
