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Cultures of East Mediterranean
D2724091610
Dates
09/16/24 - 09/26/24
Ship
SH Diana
Duration
10 Nights
Guests
2 Guest
Price From
$ 8,887
Per Person
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Trip Details
Experience the magic of the Eastern Mediterranean on this unforgettable voyage. From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the charming port town of Kavala and the vibrant city of Thessaloniki, this cruise will take you on a journey through some of the world's most beautiful and historic destinations. As you sail through the Aegean Sea, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the ancient ruins of Volos and Chíos, stroll through the picturesque streets of Kusadasi and Rhodes, and soak up the sun on the beautiful beaches of Heraklion. And when you’re ready to relax and unwind, you can enjoy a leisurely day at sea as you take in the stunning views of the Mediterranean.
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Itinerary Map
Itinerary
Istanbul Day 1

An enchanting city that divides two continents, we’ll approach Istanbul from the Bosphorus Strait, one of the world’s most important maritime routes. With the shores of Asia to the east, the first Bosphorus Bridge to the north and ‘old Istanbul’ to the south, few other ports offer such an immersive welcome. After disembarking, you’ll soon discover that the city is a vibrant, inclusive and friendly place that blends its tradition and modernity with ease. The history here is diverse and far-reaching. The city’s strategic location attracted many conquering forces over the years including the Greeks, Romans, Venetians and Ottomans. Istanbul was also the final point on the legendary Silk Road, attracting traders from the world over, and paving the way for the culturally diverse Istanbul of today.

Kavala Day 2

The quiet and rarely explored port of Kavála in eastern Macedonia is a gateway to the unexpected delights of Northern Greece. The town is an intriguing blend of history and culture, architectural landmarks and flower-filled courtyards, groomed beaches and natural wonders. Known in ancient times as Neopolis, meaning ‘new city’, Kavála is also a historically significant seaport. One of the first ports of call for Middle Eastern traders, it was once a crucial point of access to European markets. Over time the post has held importance for Normans, Franks, Venetians and the Ottomans. Today the alleys of the Ottoman old town still lead up to a Byzantine citadel, providing a magical welcome into Northern Greece.

Shore Excursion
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Winery and Local Flavours
  • Duration: 05 h 30 m
  • Optional
  • Discover how in this region wine was celebrated since antiquity
  • Have a unique experience visiting two of the most renowned wineries in all of Greece
  • Enjoy the tasting of very special wines
Philippi
  • Duration: 03 h 00 m
  • Included
  • Visit Philippi, a UNESCO World Heritage site
  • See the most important monuments of the archaeological site as the Romano Forum
  • Visit the St. Lydia site, the stream where Lydia was baptized
Thessaloniki Day 3

Nestled in the heart of the Thermaic Gulf, Greece’s second city is a vibrant and chaotic mix of natural beauty, ancient history, fascinating culture and incredible cuisine. Comprised of many different neighbourhoods, all with their own unique vibrancy, Thessaloniki has evolved over millennia into the sprawling metropolis of today. Get the best views of the city from the Byzantine walls where the glorious blend of old and new can really be appreciated. Evidence of the city’s rich history is everywhere. The Palace, Triumphal Arch and Rotunda are remnants from the reign of 4th-century emperor Galerius Maximiliano. Exploring the narrow lanes of Ano Poli will take you through one of the city’s oldest districts and past many ancient castles and monuments.

Shore Excursion
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Kerkini Lake
  • Duration: 07 h 30 m
  • Optional
  • Discover Lake Kerkini, one of the 10 most valuable wetland habitats in Greece
  • Admire the beautiful flamingos and the magnificent buffalos that walk near you
  • Enjoy bird watching through the lake
Archaeological Site of Dion & MT Olympus
  • Duration: 08 h 00 m
  • Included
  • Visit the archaeological site of Dion situated at the foothills of Mount Olympus
  • Discover how the Roman Theater is still used nowdays
  • Pay a visit to the Museum
Traces of Alexander the Great
  • Duration: 08 h 00 m
  • Optional
  • Visit Pella, the birthplace of Alexander the Great
  • Admire the public buildings and luxurious private homes with intricate marble-floor mosaics
  • In Vergina, visit the tomb of King Philip II of Macedonia, dating from 335 B.C
Pozar Thermal Baths and Edessa
  • Duration: 07 h 40 m
  • Optional
  • Take the chance to bath in the waters at the Loutra Pozar
  • Visit to Edesaa, ancient capital of Macedon
  • Admire the beautiful gorge located in the majestic mountain Edessa Waterfalls
Volos Day 4

The homeland of the mythical centaur, the port city of Volos offers an intoxicating combination of salty sea breeze, fresh mountain air and fascinating mythology and history. This is the city where Jason and his Argonauts set sail on a quest for the Golden Fleece, and here you can find a replica of the infamous Argo, recreated based on historical texts. Take a stroll along the extensive seafront, lined with traditional cafes and restaurants. The fish tavernas here are renowned, so be sure to stop off for some freshly caught seafood and sample some of the traditional tsipouro (a local spirit).

Shore Excursion
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Remarkable Monasteries of Meteora
  • Duration: 08 h 00 m
  • Included
  • View fascinating Meteora Monasteries
  • Explore the Agios Stephanos Monastery, still stunning despite damage sustained during multiple military conflicts
  • Enjoy the incredible views while wending up the slopes of Mount Pelion
Cook Like a Local at a Greek Farm
  • Duration: 04 h 00 m
  • Optional
  • Enjoy a visit to the Karaiskos Farm
  • Visit the vegetable garden to learn about the seasonal products and herbs locally grown in Pelion
  • Cook local recipes learn your hosts' secrets
Chios Day 5

Located in the beautiful Aegean Sea, Chios is the birthplace of the Greek poet Homer and is known for its incredible beaches and fascinating medieval villages. Pyrgi and Olympi stand out for their elaborate architecture and intricate geometrical patterns. When the Roman Empire fell, Chios joined the Byzantine Empire. Castles, villages and strongholds were built, most of which remain today. Chios remains largely untouched by mass tourism and walking through the narrow streets of the villages and along the harbour is an authentic, sensory experience.

Shore Excursion
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Nea Moni Monastery & Anavatos
  • Duration: 04 h 00 m
  • Optional
  • Pay a visit to the Nea Moni monastery, considered as one of the most famous buildings of the Byzantine period
  • Stroll around the small streets of Avgonima, surrounded by the stone made houses with the flat roofs and have a coffee break at the central square
Chios Town history and Food tour
  • Duration: 03 h 00 m
  • Optional
  • Walk through the small alleys of Chios Town and make several stops to the locals’ favourite places
  • Taste some local specialties
Chios Highlights
  • Duration: 04 h 30 m
  • Included
  • Visit Pyrgi Village one of the most beautiful villages on the island of Chios, known as the "painted village" thanks to the unique facade of the stone houses
  • Continue the island discovery to the Mesta, the best preserved medieval village of Chios
  • Discover the secrets of Masticha plantations
Kusadasi Day 6

Kusadasi is the gateway to Ephesus, one of the ancient world’s most legendary cities. Remarkably well preserved, Ephesus is a UNESCO listed world heritage site and the best place in the Mediterranean to learn about past civilisations. A short distance from Ephesus, the Temple of Artemis (also known as the Temple of Diana), one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, once stood. Although the temple is no longer there, it is still possible to walk amongst its foundations. After the Romans arrived in 129 BC, Ephesus became the capital of western Asian Minor. Wander through its ancient streets and step back in time into one of Rome’s most important commercial hubs.

Shore Excursion
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Priene -Miletus & Didyma
  • Duration: 08 h 00 m
  • Optional
  • Discover Priene, less visited than other site in the region offers gorgeous Turkish landscapes, and retains a great deal of its ancient Greek heritage
  • Learn the history of Miletus, home not only to explorers and traders, but to a significant intellectual community
  • Wonder in front of the Didyma's Temple of Apollo
St. John Basilica - Artemis Tempel & V. House Of Virgin Mary
  • Duration: 03 h 30 m
  • Optional
  • Visit this mystical site believed to be the last residence of the Virgin Mary
  • Stop at the Basilica of St. John, which was one of the most significant religious monuments of its time
  • Stop at the Temple of Artemis also known as the Temple of Diana, one of the 7 wonders of the world
Ephesus - Terrace Houses & Museum
  • Duration: 04 h 30 m
  • Included
  • Visit Ephesus, considered Europe’s most complete ancient city. Ephesus was an important religious center second only to Athens and later Jerusalem
  • Admire the Terrace Houses "The Houses of the Rich", luxury Roman Villas
  • Sepnd some time in the Ephesus Museum, here are not only findings from the ongoing excavations
Rhodes Day 7

Rhodes Town is known for the 100-ft high bronze statue of Colossus of Rhodes, which once stood at Mandraki Harbour. The UNESCO-listed Old Town dates back to the 14th century and was constructed by the Knights of St. John. The sites of interest include Panagia Bourgou Gate, the Jewish Quarter, and the Mosque of Suleiman in the bustling Turkish District. The Grand Masters' Palace, decorated with colorful marble mosaics, is among the notable attractions, along with the Gothic-lined Street of the Knights. The ancient Acropolis of Rhodes, a 4th-century BC hilltop fortress with remarkable ruins, lies just outside the town.

Shore Excursion
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Walking Tour of Old Rhodes Town
  • Duration: 03 h 00 m
  • Included
  • Rhodes Old Town has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988, it’s certainly unlike the main town of any other Greek island
  • Palace of the Grand Master, also known as the Kastello, the headquarters of the Order of the Knights of St John is the stand-out building of the old town
  • Walk through the Street of the Knights, one of the best-preserved medieval street in Europe
Acropolis of Lindos
  • Duration: 04 h 30 m
  • Included
  • Enjoy the scenic drive along the east coast passing by quaint villages, orange and lemon groves, vineyards and gnarled old olive trees
  • Admire the 4th-century B.C. Doric Temple of Athena Lindia and a double-winged portico
  • Look at the breathtaking panoramas from atop the Acropolis, including St. Paul's Bay
Jeep Safari
  • Duration: 07 h 00 m
  • Optional
  • Discover the mountainous northern non-tourist parts of Rhodes Island from West to East
  • Following a German Italian war route with historical points of interest through villages
  • Experience a mixture of on and off-road routes in the peaks of the mountains with panoramic views, wild life and stunning nature
Upgraded Lindos and Ancient Rhodes
  • Duration: 08 h 00 m
  • Optional
  • Take this full day tour that will give you the opportunity to discover the most important highlights of the Island
  • Visit the unique archaeological site of Lindos
  • Stroll around the narrow streets of the old town
Rhodes Natural Beauty
  • Duration: 04 h 30 m
  • Optional
  • Visit the beautiful Kallithea Springs, located on the eastern coast
  • Discover the Bee Museum offering a fascinating look into the world of bees and honey production
  • The perfect way to end the visit will be the valley of the Butterflies, a stunning nature reserve home to thousands of colorful butterflies
Heraklion, Crete Day 8

Heraklion is the largest city and capital of Crete. It is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture, home to many museums, including the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, which houses artifacts from the Minoan civilization. The city is also home to the Palace of Knossos, one of Greece's most important archaeological sites. The palace was built around 2000 BC and was the center of Minoan civilization.

Shore Excursion
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The Palace of Knossos
  • Duration: 03 h 30 m
  • Included
  • The ruins of Knossos palace are incredibly well-preserved, and offers a glimpse into the lives of the Minoans
  • Marvel at the intricate carvings on the walls, or wander through the courtyards and imagine what life was like in this ancient city
  • Admire The House of the Frescoes, which has wall paintings, and the Villa of Dionysos, a private home with magnificent mosaic decorations
Day at sea Day 9

Sea days are rarely dull. Take the time to sit back and let the world go by. The ship’s observation decks provide stunning views of the passing ocean. A day at sea gives you the opportunity to mingle with other passengers and share your experiences of this incredible trip or head to our library which is stocked full of reference books. Get an expert’s view in one of our on-board lectures or perhaps perfect your photography skills with invaluable advice from our onboard professional photographers.

Alexandria Day 10

Alexandria is a beautiful city located on the Mediterranean coast of Egypt. It is known for its rich history, culture, and stunning architecture. The city is home to many museums and historical sites, including the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, one of the world's largest libraries.

Port Said Day 11

Port Said was developed in 1859 around the inauguration of the Suez Canal. The Waterfront Quarter is home to many handsome buildings such as the Suez Canal House and the Military Museum of Port Said. The port is also the perfect jumping off point to explore Cairo, where you can tour the Egyptian Museum which houses some 120,000 artefacts dating back to the pharaohs, including the treasures of Tutankhamun.

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Rates Include
Regional flights to the port of embarkation and/or disembarkation (ONLY available for Antarctica cruises starting or ending in Ushuaia, Arctic cruises starting and ending in Longyearbyen and Kangerlussuaq)
Group return transfers from the airport to the cruise port (via our included accommodation where applicable)
One night pre-cruise accommodation with breakfast in a 4/5-star hotel or onboard
All meals onboard
Onboard accommodation in a stateroom selected category
24-hour room service
Coffee, tea, soft drinks and selected alcoholic beverages available 24-hours per day
Lecture programmes by our experienced expedition team and guest speakers
One selected shore excursion/expedition activities per port of call (Kayak not included, bookable for a fee on board)
Branded Swan Hellenic expedition parka and use of rubber boots in Polar Regions
Standard WiFi
Onboard gratuities & port taxes
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Itinerary Map

We are providing a list of sample excursions that Swan Hellenic may offer on this itinerary, which are subject to change. We constantly update our shore excursion program with exclusive and genuine experiences, so please do not hesitate to review your excursion program choice closer to your departure date.

We invite all guests to visit swanhellenic.com for the most updated information.

09:00 AM – 05:30 PM (EST)

+1 (800) 537 6777
ARRANGE A CALLBACK
Stateroom
Number of Guests
Oceanview D4
20 m2 Sleeps 2
Oceanview staterooms features 2 single beds, bedroom and living room and a luxurious ensuite bathroom.
Price From
$ 0
Oceanview M4
20 m2 Sleeps 2
Oceanview staterooms features 2 single beds, bedroom and living room and a luxurious ensuite bathroom.
Price From
$ 0
Balcony D5
28 m2 Sleeps 2
Located on decks 5, these balcony staterooms feature 2 single beds or a double bed, distinct bedroom and living room areas, a luxurious bathroom and your own private 6 sq. m balcony.
Price From
$ 0
Balcony M5
28 m2 Sleeps 2
Located on decks 5, these balcony staterooms feature 2 single beds or a double bed, distinct bedroom and living room areas, a luxurious bathroom and your own private 6 sq. m balcony.
Price From
$ 0
Balcony D6
28 m2 Sleeps 2
Located on decks 6, these balcony staterooms feature 2 single beds or a double bed, distinct bedroom and living room areas, a luxurious bathroom and your own private 6 sq. m balcony.
Price From
$ 0
Junior Suite
35 m2 Sleeps 2
SH Diana’s Junior Suite features a Super King Size bed, separate living room area, walk-in closet, luxurious ensuite bathroom, and a 7 sq. m private balcony.
Price From
$ 0
Suite
44 m2 Sleeps 2
Our Suites feature a Super King Size bed and separate living room with a soothing flame-effect fireplace, a luxurious ensuite bathroom, a walk-in closet, and a 6 sq. m. private balcony.
Price From
$ 0
Premium Suite
47 m2 Sleeps 2
SH Diana’s Premium Suites feature a Super King Size bed, separate living room with homely flame-effect fireplace, luxurious ensuite bathroom, spacious walk-in wardrobe and a 12 sq. m private balcony.
Price From
$ 0

We are providing a list of sample excursions that Swan Hellenic may offer on this itinerary, which are subject to change. We constantly update our shore excursion program with exclusive and genuine experiences, so please do not hesitate to review your excursion program choice closer to your departure date.

We invite all guests to visit swanhellenic.com for the most updated information.

09:00 AM – 05:30 PM (EST)

+1 (800) 537 6777
ARRANGE A CALLBACK