Peloponnese & Greek Islands Cruise

Your 8-day cruise commences with embarkation at 2.00pm to 3.00pm. You are invited to board the ship at Marina Zeas at your convenience. Relax in your luxury cabin or explore the port town at your leisure, before joining your fellow passengers at the Welcome party. You will be introduced to the captain and the crew.

After dinner, we sail towards Palaia Epidavros, on the east coast of the Peloponnese. The popular harbour is situated in the site of the ancient sunken city. En route, admire the fabulous sunset vistas over the Aegean Sea.

We leave the ship and drive to ancient Epidaurus for an optional excursion. Epidaurus (or Palaia Epidavros) is surrounded by fragrant lemon and orange trees and was once known throughout the ancient Greek world as a healing sanctuary.

The birthplace of Apollo’s son Asclepius is famous for its theatre, and the ruins of civic monuments dating back to 300 BC. Lunch is served on board. In the afternoon, we sail to the seaport town of Nafplion. For an authentic Greek experience, visit the family run tavernas and restaurants that are frequented by the locals.

After a short walking tour of Nafplion’s colourful Old Town, we embark on a drive through the beautiful countryside of Argolis towards the archaeological site of Mycenae. One of the most important sites in Greek history and culture, the fortified citadel of Mycenae boasts the remains of the Lion’s Gate, the palace and the Agamemnon Tomb.

There is also an excellent museum. Lunch is served on board. Monemvasia is our cruising destination in the afternoon. The medieval fortified town is carved into the side of a huge sea rock that is protected from view.

On arrival in Gythion join our optional excursion to the windswept landscapes of the Mani peninsula, Cape Tenaro and the spectacular Diros Caves. Ancient Gythion was inhabited during prehistoric times and was used by the Spartans as a port.

We cross the scenic Mani Peninsula to reach the magnificent and natural archaeological caves of Diros. We also visit nearby Areopolis, where you can enjoy a stroll through the town that is of significant historic importance. This is the site of the war of independence against 350 years of Turkish occupation.

The picturesque seaside town of Pylos is also locally known by its Italian name of Navarino. The location is the site of one of the most important naval battles. The defeat led to the independence of Greece. Explore the remains of the ancient Nestor’s Palace situated on a scenic hilltop.

Highlights include well-preserved royal apartments and a bathtub that archaeologists believe once belonged to the king. We also visit the charming town of Hora to admire the whitewashed buildings, and to explore the archaeological museum that boasts a display of thousands of recovered artifacts

From the port town of Katakolo join our optional excursion to Olympia. Revered as the birthplace of the modern day Olympic games, Olympia is also one of the most famous and important sites in the ancient world. Explore the magnificent temples of Hera and of Zeus.

The unique circular Philippeion is one of the finest examples of classical Greek architecture. Visit the Olympia Museum and enjoy lunch in the town. The Museum of the History of the Olympic Games of Antiquity is worth a visit in the afternoon. Free time to enjoy at your leisure.

After breakfast, join our optional half-day excursion to Delphi. The legendary town is situated on Mount Parnassus and is the ancient site of the Temple of Apollo. Unlike most of the archaeological sites in Greece, Delphi is built on the side of a mountain.

The extensive mountainside archaeological complex is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, and encompasses a stadium, theatre and sanctuary. There is also an on-site museum. We return to the ship and traverse the Corinth Canal. Enjoy a farewell dinner and a final sunset panorama en route for Marina Zeas.

In the early hours we depart for Marina Zeas. On arrival, enjoy breakfast and bid farewell to your fellow passengers and crew before disembarkation.