$5,950
Indulge in an immersive journey that combines the best of land and sea. This is not your typical cruise experience. Think of it instead as a boutique floating hotel, designed to let us explore the Greek Isles without the hassle of multiple flights or ferry transfers.
Our adventure begins in dazzling Athens, a city where ancient ruins coexist with modern energy. After soaking in the capital’s rich history and lively culture, we’ll embark on a 7-night cruise aboard the Celestyal Journey, a newly refurbished (2023) mid-sized ship that embodies Greek hospitality and elegance. With its teak promenade and sleek modern design, it offers all the amenities of a larger vessel—without the overwhelming crowds.
We chose this “premium casual” cruise for its thoughtful balance of comfort, cuisine, and cultural access. The itinerary includes highlights such as Santorini, Mykonos, and Kusadasi (Turkey), as well as off-the-beaten-path gems like Rhodes, Crete, and Milos. Throughout the journey, our archaeologist tour leader will accompany us, offering insight and context at every stop. Privately arranged shore excursions designed exclusively for our group will immerse you in the food, wine, archaeology, and landscapes that make Greece unforgettable.
*Please click on each day to view daily itinerary.
Depart on your international flight to Athens, Greece. Note: Pre-nights in Athens are available for those who wish to arrive early. Please inquire for rates and availability.
Upon arrival in Athens, your private driver will meet you at the airport to bring you to your centrally located hotel. Take some time to rest and settle in before we gather this evening for a welcome talk and drink. We’ll then enjoy a special welcome dinner together and take in the magnificent nighttime views of Athens. Overnight in Athens .
This morning, enjoy a guided exploration of Athens, where ancient history and modern life coexist in perfect harmony. We’ll begin at the Acropolis, the city’s crown jewel. A visit to the Acropolis Museum then follows, a striking modern space showcasing masterpieces from the site above and offering panoramic views of the sacred hill. We’ll then stroll through the Plaka, Athens’ charming old quarter with its cobblestone lanes, neoclassical facades, and lively cafés. Here, we’ll pause for lunch at a local taverna, sampling classic Greek dishes and wines. The afternoon is yours to continue exploring. Overnight in Athens
After check-out this morning, we’ll enjoy a scenic drive through Athens on our way to the port. We’ll pass key landmarks such as Syntagma Square, Hadrian’s Arch, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and the Panathenaic Stadium before continuing along Athenian Riviera towards Piraeus. Upon arrival, we’ll embark on our 7-night Idyllic Aegean Cruise on the Celestyal Journey. Once aboard, take time to settle into your balcony cabin, explore the ship’s inviting spaces, and enjoy a relaxing afternoon as we set sail into the Aegean. This evening, we’ll gather for a group dinner on board. Overnight aboard Celesytal Journey – balcony suite
We begin our day with an early disembarkation for one of the world’s most remarkable archaeological sites—Ephesus, home to the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Guided by our archaeologist tour leader and a local expert, we’ll explore the magnificent ruins, once a thriving center of Greek and Roman civilization. Afterward, enjoy lunch and a tasting of local fruit wines in a nearby village before returning to the coastal town of Kusadasi, where you’ll have free time to browse the lively bazaar or stroll along the promenade to admire the seaside fortress. When ready, walk back to the conveniently docked ship. (Return by 5:30 PM for 6:00 PM departure.) Overnight aboard Celestyal Journey.
This morning we’ll be met at the dock to begin our exploration of Rhodes—the Island of the Knights. Our day starts at Mandraki Old Harbour, traditionally believed to be the site where the Colossus of Rhodes once stood. From here, we’ll enjoy a scenic drive along the island’s northern coastline as we make our way to Lindos, one of Rhodes’ most picturesque whitewashed villages. You’ll have time to wander its charming alleyways and admire the stunning views of the Acropolis of Lindos perched above. We’ll then return to Rhodes’ medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where cobblestone streets, imposing fortifications, and the ancient harbor create an unforgettable setting. After our guided tour, enjoy free time to shop, explore, or relax at a café. Our coach will take us back to the dock, but those who wish to linger longer in the Old Town can easily return to the ship later by foot or taxi. (Return by 5:30 PM for 6:00 PM departure.) Overnight aboard Celestyal Journey.
Today we dock in Agios Nikolaos on the island of Crete. Our day begins with a scenic drive through the Cretan countryside to the legendary Palace of Knossos, one of Greece’s most significant archaeological sites and the center of Minoan civilization. We’ll then continue to a traditional village, where we’ll sample local olive oils and wines and enjoy a leisurely lunch while learning about regional traditions and crafts. On our way back, we’ll make a brief stop in the charming resort village of Elounda for time to stretch our legs and take in the coastal views. We’ll return to Agios Nikolaos in the late afternoon, leaving you with time to enjoy the cafés and shops of this stylish harbor town before heading back to the ship. (Return by 7:30 PM for 8:00 PM departure.) Overnight aboard Celestyal Journey
This morning we’ll tender ashore in Santorini, where our local guide will lead us to Oia to admire its iconic blue domes and spectacular caldera views. After time to explore this picture-perfect village, we’ll continue to Megalochori, a traditional settlement known for its quiet charm, whitewashed lanes, and authentic island character. We’ll then enjoy a leisurely lunch at a family-owned beachfront restaurant on Perivolos, home to Santorini’s famous black-sand beach. Following lunch, we’ll visit one of the island’s renowned wineries for a tour and tasting of Santorini’s distinctive volcanic wines. In the afternoon, we’ll return to Fira, where you’ll have ample free time to shop, stroll, or simply soak in the scenery. You can descend by cable car and take the tender back to the ship whenever you wish—and you’re welcome to return ashore again later if you like. With a 10:00 PM departure, you’ll have plenty of time for dinner, relaxation, or a final evening walk before reboarding. Overnight aboard Celestyal Journey
After disembarking at the new port, we’ll transfer by water taxi to the old port for a leisurely walking tour of Mykonos Town and the Little Venice neighborhood, visiting its iconic windmills with a local guide. We’ll continue by boat to the sacred island of Delos, one of the most important archaeological sites in the Aegean. Return in the early afternoon for free time to enjoy lunch, shop, or relax. With a 2:00 AM ship departure, you’ll have the flexibility to explore town, return to the ship for dinner or rest, and perhaps venture out again later for an evening stroll or a visit to one of Mykonos’s famed beaches. Overnight aboard Celestyal Journey
Today we’ll discover the unspoiled beauty of Milos, famous for its dramatic volcanic landscapes, turquoise waters, and picturesque villages. Highlights will include visits to charming local villages, the colorful fishing huts of Klima, and the moonlike Sarakiniko Beach. There will be time for photography, a seaside lunch, and leisurely exploration before returning to the port town of Adamas for some free time. This relaxed day will be the perfect ending for our Greek island visits. Overnight aboard Celestyal Journey
This morning we arrive back in Athens and disembark. Our driver will take us to Ancient Corinth, once a powerful city-state and home to impressive ruins including the Temple of Apollo and the Bema of St. Paul. We’ll then visit a local winery for a tasting and farewell lunch, with a stop at the Corinth Canal, a spectacular engineering marvel linking the Aegean and Ionian Seas. Our journey concludes at our conveniently located airport hotel, where you can relax and prepare for your flight home. Overnight at Athens airport hotel.
Today you can transfer by hotel shuttle to the airport for an easy departure to catch your outbound flights.
Trip Details:
2 nights in Athens
7 nights on Celestyal Journey
1 night near Athens airport
Total: 10 nights, 11 days
Total: 10 nights, 11 days
Price Details:
$5,950 USD per person, double occupancy (14 minimum, 26 maximum)
Land Portion (Athens)
• Individual airport transfers on arrival
• Accommodation in centrally located hotels
• Breakfast daily and one additional main meal per day in Athens (including wine)
• Group transportation in a deluxe private bus when needed
• Entrance fees, tastings, and ferry tickets as outlined in the land itinerary
Cruise Portion (7-Night Celestyal Idyllic Aegean)
• 7-night cruise in a balcony suite
• All onboard meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), including reserved seating for our group in a specialty dining room
• Complimentary essential WiFi for all guests
• Filter coffee, tea, water, and juice available throughout the day (6am–10pm)
• Unlimited soft drinks in the main restaurants during meals
• Port fees and taxes
• Crew gratuities
• $25 Celestyal onboard credit per person
• Private Customized Journeys shore excursions at each port (private vehicle, local guides, entrances, tastings, etc.)
• Additional lunches during shore excursions as specified in itinerary
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