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Sailing the Cusp of Europe and Asia

Eastern Mediterranean: From Istanbul to Limassol 11 Day Expedition Cruise

D2223092310
Dates
09/23/23 - 10/03/23
Ship
SH Diana
Duration
10 Nights
Guests
2 Guest
Price From
$ 0
Per Person
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Trip Details

Leaving the culturally diverse city of Istanbul in Turkey behind, our five-star boutique ship heads across the Aegean Sea on our Highlights of the Aegean & Southern Turkey before landing in Cyprus. This absorbing voyage takes us on a journey through Eastern Mediterranean history, discovering once-glorious ancient sites that were home to some of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Discover the remnants of Ancient Greek and Roman trading ports, cities and temples as you roam through World Heritage archaeological sites. From picturesque medieval towns to the site of a bloody World War I battle, history surrounds you on this cultural cruise where ancient worlds have shaped the modern cities you visit today.

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Trip Highlights
Stand among the ruins of Ancient Troy and listen to stories of Trojan history
Learn more about the ancient Greek poet, Homer, on his home island of Chios
Wander through ancient streets in the legendary commercial city of Ephesus
Discover more about two of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World
Walk though the triumphal arch of Hadrian’s Gate and immerse yourself in Antalya’s old town
Itinerary Map
Itinerary
Istanbul Day 1-2

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.

Shore Excursion
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Landmarks of Istanbul
  • Duration: 04 h 00 m
  • Included
  • Take a tour that will show yo the most famous landmarks of this incredible town
  • Marvell as you enter the Blue Mosque
  • Visit St. Sophia Museum, the magnificent Byzantine Church built directly across from the Blue Mosque, and one of the finest architectural works in the world
Hidden Treasures Of Istanbul
  • Duration: 06 h 45 m
  • Optional
  • Discover some of the hidden gems of the town
  • Suleymaniye Mosque built by the legendary architect, Mimar Sinan, it is known as one of his masterpieces, and his largest design. The sense of space and light is emphasized in the supporting semi-domes to the northwest and southeast and the monumental arched spaces to the southwest and northeast.
  • Wander around Balat, one of Istanbul’s oldest neighbourhood. This part of town is a melting pot of immigrants, including Jews, Orthodox Christians, and of course Turks.
Jewels Of Imperial Constantinople
  • Duration: 07 h 30 m
  • Optional
  • Learn the history of Haghia Sophia, the 6th-century Byzantine church whose name means “Divine Wisdom”, and which has been nominated the 8th wonder of the world by many historians.
  • Visit the Underground Cistern, the largest and most magnificent covered cistern in Istanbul, built under Emperor Justinian in 532 AD.
  • Discover how the Sultans used to live while visiting the Topkapi palace
Canakkale Day 3

The culturally important seaport of Çanakkale is the gateway to the Dardanelles (known in classical antiquity as the Hellespont), which connects the Sea of Marmara to the Aegean Sea. Alongside the Bosphorus, these are the two historically significant and legendary Turkish straits. And there is no better way to explore this historical waterway than by small ship cultural cruising. Cruising into the Dardanelles we’ll pass the site of ancient Troy (Biga Peninsula) and the Gallipoli Peninsula, the place of the epic World War I battle.

Shore Excursion
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Troy & Museum
  • Duration: 03 h 45 m
  • Included
  • Discover Troy Antique Site, with its 4,000 years of history, is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world
  • After the visit of the aecheological site spend some time at the Museum, honoring this heritage and is a medium to tell the rich history of Troy
Chios Day 4

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 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 5

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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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
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
Patmos, Pamos Day 6

Patmos, an Aegean island in the Dodecanese islands, is an important sacred site for Christian pilgrims. It is here that St. John, or John of Patmos, was believed to have written the Book of Revelations in the Cave of the Apocalypse, above the port of Skala. Visitors also walk to the top of the hill to the 11th-century Monastery of Saint John, which overlooks the picturesque white-washed capital of the island, Chora.

Shore Excursion
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Spirit of Patmos
  • Duration: 04 h 30 m
  • Included
  • Visit the monastery dedicated to the ‘beloved disciple’, founded t in the late 10th century, place of pilgrimage and Greek Orthodox learning ever since
  • Discover Simantiri, the oldest mansion house of Chora, dating back to 1625 it Keeps the traditional and classic style
  • Enjoy the geek cuisine before getting back to the port
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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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
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
Kastelorizo Day 8

Kastelorizo is the remotest island in Greece, located on the easternmost edge of Dodecanese. It is also known as Megisti. The island is a small complex of fourteen rocky islets and islands. Kastelorizo’s origins trace back to prehistoric times. The Knights of Rhodes ruled the island in the 14th century. The Ottoman Empire followed them until it was ceded to Italy in 1912. The British occupied it during World War II and returned the island to Greece in 1948.

Shore Excursion
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Kastelorizo Walking Tour
  • Duration: 02 h 30 m
  • Included
  • Walk towards the town's main square, Plateia Ethelondon, where you'll find the historic mosque and the church of Saint Konstantinos and Eleni
  • From the medieval castle of the Knights of St. John enjoy stunning views of the island and the surrounding sea
  • Pay a visit of the Folk Art Museum. The museum houses a collection of traditional costumes, embroidery, ceramics
Blue Cave
  • Duration: 01 h 00 m
  • Optional
  • Board a small boat specifically designed to navigate the narrow passages leading to the Blue Cave
  • Cruise along the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea, passing picturesque coastal landscapes
  • Marvel at the translucent blue waters while inside the cave
Fethiye Day 9

Fethiye is a port city on Turkey's aptly named Turquoise Coast, best-known for its blue waters. The town is also the site of numerous rock tombs including the 350 B.C. Tomb of Amyntas, carved into a bluff overlooking the city. Modern Fethiye is built over the Ancient Greek city of Telmessos, the largest city of Lycia. The newly created Lycian Way Trail path runs 400 km between Fethiye and Antalya. In the south, Belcekız beach at Ölüdeniz is sheltered by the glistening warm waters of the Blue Lagoon, while nearby Butterfly Valley is a designated nature reserve.

Shore Excursion
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Tour Of Xanthos And Letoon
  • Duration: 04 h 30 m
  • Included
  • Discover the remarkable archaeological complex of Xanthos-Letoon, the most unique extant architectural example of the ancient Lycian Civilization
  • Begin your visit in Xanthos, which was the capital of ancient Lycia
  • Continue then to Letoon, the ancient federal sanctuary, the place where all religious and political decisions
The Rock Cut Toms and Fethiye’s Archaeological Museum
  • Duration: 03 h 30 m
  • Optional
  • The Lycian rock-hewn tombs, dating back to the 4th century BC
  • Visit the Fethiye’s Archaeological Museum
Antalya Day 10

Founded in 150 BC by Attalos II, King of Pergamon, Antalya is now a major harbour and the largest Turkish city on the Mediterranean coast. The city’s long and fascinating history is evident just about everywhere. Hadrian’s Gate marks the historical entrance to Antalya and in the Archaeological Museum, you can find impressive collections of pottery, mosaics and artefacts. Immerse yourself in ancient times as you wander the narrow winding streets of Antalya’s Old Town. Or for an authentic Turkish shopping experience, the Antalya Bazaar is a must.

Shore Excursion
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Termessos
  • Duration: 04 h 15 m
  • Optional
  • Visit to the ancient city of Termessos, nestled in a stunningly dramatic 1050 meter (3444 feet) plane directly between two steep mountains
  • Enjoy the panoramic ride through the beautiful, forested slopes of the Gulluk Mountains
  • Learn the history of the Termessos theatre built into the side of a steep canyon, looking over the precipitous slopes of Gulluk mountain
Limassol Day 11

The second largest city in Cyprus, sunny Limassol is located between the ancient sites of Amathous and Kourion. Just like its island home, Limassol has seen many occupations come and go, and the result is delightfully cosmopolitan. The modern waterfront buildings and sleek promenade stand in contrast to the ancient core of the Old Town. Here you’ll find Limassol Castle, best known as the place where Richard the Lionheart (King Richard I) married Berengaria of Navarre after his conquest of the island in 1191. Kolossi Castle is located around 14 kilometres outside the city and was a command post during the Crusades. Take a break from the city’s long and fascinating history and explore the beautiful beaches, bustling restaurants and cafes, or perhaps enjoy the island’s natural beauty on hike along Cape Greco’s stunning coastal trails.

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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