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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
$ 5,240
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 10-night 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 archaological 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
  • 4:00
  • Number of day: 2
  • Included
Hidden Treasures Of Istanbul
  • 6:45
  • Number of day: 2
  • Included
Jewels Of Imperial Constantinople
  • 7:30
  • Number of day: 2
  • Included
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
  • 3:45
  • Number of day: 3
  • Included
Assos Antique Site
  • 4:00
  • Number of day: 3
  • Included
Gallipoli
  • 5:00
  • Number of day: 3
  • Included
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
  • 4:00
  • Number of day: 4
  • Included
Chios Town history and Food tour
  • 3:00
  • Number of day: 4
  • Included
Chios Highlights
  • 4:30
  • Number of day: 4
  • Included
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
  • 4:30
  • Number of day: 5
  • Included
Priene -Miletus & Didyma
  • 8:00
  • Number of day: 5
  • Included
St. John Basilica - Artemis Tempel & V. House Of Virgin Mary
  • 3:30
  • Number of day: 5
  • Included
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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Daily life of a nun
  • 2:30
  • Number of day: 6
  • Included
Hiking in Patmos
  • 5:00
  • Number of day: 6
  • Included
Spirit of Patmos
  • 4:30
  • Number of day: 6
  • Included
Rhodes Day 7

Rhodes’ archeologic crown jewel, is dominated by its remarkable Acropolis. The Apostle Paul landed in St Paul’s Bay, located at the foot of the Acropolis. Further below old, whitewashed buildings line a warren of alleyways where the mansions of long-vanished sea captains now house tavernas, bars and cafes.

Shore Excursion
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Walking Tour of Old Rhodes Town
  • 3:00
  • Number of day: 7
  • Included
Acropolis of Lindos
  • 4:30
  • Number of day: 7
  • Included
Upgraded Lindos and Ancient Rhodes
  • 8:00
  • Number of day: 7
  • Included
Rhodes Natural Beauty
  • 4:30
  • Number of day: 7
  • Included
Rhodes 3 Religions
  • 3:20
  • Number of day: 7
  • Included
Kastelorizo Day 8

Shore Excursion
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Kastelorizo Walking Tour
  • 2:30
  • Number of day: 8
  • Included
Blue Cave
  • 1:00
  • Number of day: 8
  • Included
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
  • 4:30
  • Number of day: 9
  • Included
A day in Xantos and Patara - Upgraged tour
  • 8:30
  • Number of day: 9
  • Included
The Rock Cut Toms and Fethiye’s Archaeological Museum
  • 3:30
  • Number of day: 9
  • Included
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.

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
Itinerary changes and surprising experiences are part of expedition cruise life. The world has a habit of amazing us with incredible things when we yield to the unexpected. Join us with an open mind and a sense of adventure and you’ll find that this can pay off in the most rewarding ways.

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
Itinerary changes and surprising experiences are part of expedition cruise life. The world has a habit of amazing us with incredible things when we yield to the unexpected. Join us with an open mind and a sense of adventure and you’ll find that this can pay off in the most rewarding ways.

09:00 AM – 05:30 PM (EST)

+1 (800) 537 6777
ARRANGE A CALLBACK