Classical Greece: 8 days Athens (Piraeus) to Athens (Piraeus)

Your unforgettable voyage begins in Greece and its ancient capital, Athens. The birthplace of democracy and western civilisation, this enthralling city presents a remarkable blend of rich traditions and modern dynamism. Here, you’ll be transferred to your luxuryEmerald yacht to begin an incredible odyssey along the coasts of Greece and Turkey.   

Please book your flight to arrive into Athens prior to 02:00 PM.

Docked: 19:00 

Sail to glamorous Mykonos, where Cycladic charm meets cosmopolitan flair. Lose yourself in the maze of narrow lanes lined with whitewashed houses and chapels. Discover chic boutiques, waterfront tavernas and the island’s iconic windmills overlooking the Aegean. As evening falls, Mykonos reveals its vibrant energy, offering the ideal blend of tradition and modern sophistication. 

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Explore Mykonos Town Highlights on Foot (extra expense, must be pre-booked)
Discover the timeless charm of Mykonos on a leisurely walking tour through the island’s enchanting capital, where traditional Cycladic architecture, rich history, and stunning coastal scenery come together.Explore the maze of whitewashed streets in Mykonos Town (Chora) as your guide shares fascinating insights into the island’s culture and history. Along the way, admire the iconic Panagia Paraportiani, one of Greece’s most photographed churches, and the charming Church of St. Nicholas, overlooking the old harbour. Continue through the picturesque waterfront district of Little Venice, where elegant historic houses line the sea, before reaching the famous Mykonos Windmills, offering panoramic views across the town and the sparkling Aegean.Pause to enjoy a traditional Greek cheese pie at a local bakery and a refreshing drink before free time to browse the boutiques, relax at a café, or continue exploring Mykonos Town at your own pace.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes 

Anchored: 07:30 – 19:00

Known for its stunning turquoise waters, pebbly and sand beaches, and vibrant nightlife, Bodrum, set along Turkey’s southwest shores, attracts both local and international visitors year-round. 

This alluring town is also steeped in history and home to several historical sites, including the impressive Bodrum Castle, built by the Knights of St. John in the 15th century. The castle now houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, displaying artifacts from shipwrecks discovered in the Aegean Sea. 

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Turkish Cooking Class (extra expense)
Immerse yourself in the authentic flavours of the Aegean on a memorable culinary experience in the traditional village of Çömlekçi, where local recipes and warm hospitality bring Turkish cuisine to life.Travel through the scenic countryside surrounding Bodrum to the charming rural village of Çömlekçi. Here, discover the secrets of regional Aegean cooking, renowned for its use of fresh herbs, olive oil, and seasonal ingredients. Watch local cooks prepare a selection of traditional dishes, or join in for a hands-on cooking experience while learning about the area’s culinary traditions. Recipes are provided for you to recreate the dishes at home. Following the demonstration, gather around communal tables to enjoy the freshly prepared meal accompanied by local wines, sharing stories and conversation in a relaxed village setting.
Activity Level: Easy, Duration: 5 hours

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Knights’ Castle and Mausoleum of Halicarnassus (extra expense)
Explore the remarkable history of Bodrum, where the legacy of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World meets one of Türkiye’s finest medieval castles. Begin with a visit to the ruins of the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, the monumental tomb built by Artemisia II in honour of King Mausolos. Once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the mausoleum gave its name to all monumental tombs and remains one of Bodrum’s most significant archaeological sites. Continue on foot to the impressive Castle of Bodrum, built by the Knights of St. John using stones from the ancient mausoleum. Explore its historic courtyards and the renowned Museum of Underwater Archaeology, where fascinating artefacts recovered from ancient shipwrecks span the Bronze Age to the Middle Ages, including the remains of a 13th-century BC Syrian merchant vessel and the exquisite treasures of the Carian Princess. Conclude your excursion with free time in the heart of Bodrum, where you can browse local shops, enjoy a café overlooking the harbour, or simply soak up the atmosphere of this vibrant seaside town.
Activity Level: Active, Duration: 4 hours 

Docked: 09:00–22:00 

The lovely Greek island of Rhodes harbours a rich history, evident in fascinating landmarks. These include the ancient Acropolis of Lindos and Palace of the Grand Master, one of the few examples of Gothic architecture in Greece, within the Medieval City of Rhodes, a designated World Heritage Site. Rhodes is also popular for its stunning natural scenery, extending to lovely sandy beaches lapped bycrystal-clear waters and lush green hills. Today choose between our Included Excursion or EmeraldACTIVE option.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Lindos
Discover the timeless beauty of Lindos, where ancient history, breathtaking coastal scenery, and traditional island charm combine in one of Rhodes’ most iconic destinations. Travel along the island’s picturesque east coast, passing fragrant citrus groves, vineyards, and ancient olive trees before arriving at the beautiful village of Lindos. From here, make the ascent on foot to the magnificent Acropolis of Lindos, dramatically perched above the village and overlooking the sparkling Aegean Sea. Explore the impressive archaeological site, including the Doric Temple of Athena Lindia, the remains of a Byzantine church, and the fortifications built by the Knights of St. John, while enjoying spectacular panoramic views across the coastline. Afterwards, descend through the charming whitewashed village to the picturesque St. Paul’s Bay, traditionally associated with the Apostle Paul’s arrival in AD 51.
Activity Level: Active, Duration: 4 hours 20 minutes 

EmeraldACTIVE
Walking Tour of Medieval Rhodes and Grand Master’s Palace
Step into the medieval heart of Rhodes, where imposing fortifications, grand palaces, and centuries of history await within one of Europe’s best-preserved walled cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy a guided walk from the quayside into the historic Old Town, where narrow cobbled streets and medieval architecture reveal the legacy of the Knights of St. John. Visit the magnificent Palace of the Grand Master, originally built in the 14th century as the residence of the Knights before later serving as an Ottoman fortress and an Italian royal residence. Today, it stands as one of Rhodes’ most important historical landmarks. Continue along the famous Street of the Knights, lined with beautifully preserved inns representing the different nationalities of the Order, before concluding your guided tour with free time to browse the lively Socrates Street bazaar, where local shops offer souvenirs, handicrafts, and traditional products. Following the guided tour, participants may either return to the ship with the group or remain in Rhodes Old Town to explore independently before making their own way back to the ship.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 3 hours 

Docked: 08:00–17:00  

One of the world’s most photogenic islands, Santorini enchants with its whitewashed buildings cascading down dramatic cliffs overlooking the Aegean. Arriving by sea at Santorini offers a breathtaking first impression. Visit the main town of Fira for breathtaking caldera views or charming Oia, where blue-domed churches and cascading bougainvillea create postcard-worthy scenes in narrow lanes. Relax on distinctive volcanic-sand beaches or sample crisp local wines cultivated in mineral-rich soil. As you sail away, the sun sinks into the Aegean and Santorini’s legendary sunset paints the sky in hues of gold and crimson – a moment to cherish forever. 

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Akrotiri, Winery & Oia (extra expense)
Journey through the history, flavours, and iconic landscapes of Santorini as you discover one of the Aegean’s most captivating islands. Begin with a visit to the remarkable archaeological site of Akrotiri, often referred to as the ‘Greek Pompeii.’ Buried beneath volcanic ash following the island’s great eruption, this exceptionally preserved Bronze Age settlement reveals sophisticated multi-storey buildings, advanced drainage systems, and fascinating insights into one of the ancient Mediterranean’s most advanced civilisations. Continue to a traditional Santorini winery, where you will learn about the island’s unique volcanic viticulture and enjoy a tasting of locally produced wines while overlooking the spectacular caldera. Complete your excursion in the picturesque village of Oia, famous for its whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches, and breathtaking views across the volcanic caldera and Thirassia Island. Afterwards, continue to Fira, where you may either return with the group or remain to explore the island’s capital independently before taking the cable car back to the Old Port at your convenience.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 5 hours 30 minutes 

Included Excursion
Round-trip cable-car ticket to Thira
Experience one of Santorini’s most iconic journeys with a roundtrip cable car ride between the Old Port of Gialos and Fira, offering spectacular views over the island’s dramatic caldera. After tendering from the ship, proceed to the Old Port of Gialos, where the Santorini Cable Car (Teleferico) provides a quick and scenic ascent up the steep caldera cliffs, connecting the port with Fira, the island’s lively capital. As the gondola rises, enjoy sweeping views of volcanic rock faces, whitewashed villages perched high above the cliffs, and the deep blue Aegean Sea below. Upon arrival in Fira, time is available to explore independently—stroll along the caldera rim, browse local shops, enjoy panoramic viewpoints, or relax at a café overlooking the breathtaking scenery. When ready, use the return cable car ticket to descend comfortably back to the Old Port and tender back to the ship.
Activity Level: Easy, Duration: At your leisure  

Anchored: 08:00–22:00 

Welcome to Chania, a charming coastal town located on the northwest coast of the Greek island of Crete. Chania is known for its picturesque Venetian harbour, narrow winding streets and vibrant atmosphere. The town boasts a rich history that is evident in itseclectic blend of architectural styles, with Venetian, Ottoman and Greek influences. Here, spend your day relaxing on one of the beautiful beaches, exploring historical sites, or hiking through lush landscapes.  

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Walking Tour of Chania with Cretan Olive Oil Tasting (extra expense)
Immerse yourself in the flavours and history of Crete as you combine an authentic olive oil experience with a visit to the charming town of Chania. Begin with a visit to a traditional olive estate, where you will learn about the cultivation, harvesting, and production of premium extra virgin olive oil. Discover both an innovative stone mill with hydraulic press and a modern cold-extraction system before enjoying a guided tasting of four distinctive olive oils, exploring the unique characteristics of different olive varieties and naturally infused oils. Continue to the picturesque Old Town of Chania, where Venetian, Ottoman, and Greek influences blend around the historic Venetian Harbour and its iconic 15th-century lighthouse. Enjoy a guided walk through the atmospheric streets before free time to browse the lively Municipal Market area, known for its herbs, local honey, olive products, and traditional Cretan delicacies.
Activity Level: Active, Duration: 3 hours 45 minutes 

EmeraldPLUS
Local folklore performance on board
Experience the vibrant spirit of Crete through an authentic onboard folklore performance celebrating the island’s rich musical and dance traditions. Enjoy an hour of captivating entertainment featuring four talented dancers performing a lively repertoire of traditional Greek dances.Accompanied by live traditional music, the performance showcases the rhythm, colour, and diversity of regional folklore, offering a memorable cultural experience inspired by the heritage of Crete.
Event duration: 1 hour

Anchored: 08:00–19:00

Life slows down on Hydra. Renowned for its stunning natural beauty and historic charm, there are no cars or motor vehicles allowed on the island, making it a peaceful and low-key getaway from the usual hustle and bustle of urban life. It’s ideal for walking, hiking or getting around by donkey, admiring the stone mansions, pebbly beaches and clear turquoise waters. The island’s main centre, also named Hydra, presents a charming and bustling port town, brimming with narrow cobblestone streets and traditional, whitewashed buildings adorned with bougainvillea-covered balconies.  

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A stroll through Hydra (extra expense)
Step into the heroic maritime history of Hydra, once a powerful naval force in the Aegean. In the late 18th century, the island’s fleet of brigs, corvettes, and brigantines connected Mediterranean ports and later played a decisive role in Greece’s War of Independence. These wooden ships and their fearless crews became known as ‘the wooden walls of Greek Independence.Stroll through Hydra’s picturesque harbour and narrow stone alleys, absorbing the atmosphere of a town shaped by seafaring tradition. Visit the Hydra Museum, where artefacts and exhibits vividly recount the island’s naval legacy. Continue to the elegant Church of the Virgin Mary, distinguished by its Venetian-style bell tower and graceful dome overlooking the port. The experience concludes with a relaxed stop at a traditional taverna, where you enjoy authentic Greek meze accompanied by a glass of ouzo, embracing the island’s warm hospitality and enduring spirit.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes 

Anchored: 09:00–22:00 

Your luxurious yacht cruise concludes as you return to the ancient city of Athens. After bidding farewell to your crew and fellow guestsfrom the yacht, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your return flight home, or to continue your holiday. 

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Athens City tour with Acropolis (extra expense, must be booked on board)
Experience the timeless wonders of Athens, where ancient history and authentic Greek flavours come together in an unforgettable journey through the city’s most iconic landmarks. Begin with a guided visit to the magnificent Acropolis, ascending the sacred hill to admire the Parthenon, Erechtheion, Temple of Athena Nike, and Propylaea, while enjoying panoramic views over Athens and nearby landmarks including the Odeon of Herodes Atticus. Continue into the charming neighbourhood of Plaka, where narrow streets, neoclassical houses, and family-run shops create the perfect setting to experience traditional Athenian life. Stroll through the lively market streets while sampling a variety of authentic Greek specialities, including local cheeses, olives, savoury pies, pastries, olive oil, wine, and regional spirits, as your guide shares the story behind Greece’s celebrated culinary traditions.
Activity Level: Active, Duration: 5 hours

Notes: This excursion is available for guests continuing on the next cruise and for disembarking guests with flights departing after 5:00 pm. After the visit to Plaka, disembarking guests will transfer directly to the airport, while in-transit guests will return to the ship by separate vehicle.

Please book your flight to depart out of Athens after 01:00 PM.

Docked: 06:00

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Emerald Cruises cannot guarantee the cruise will operated unaltered from the itinerary states above.