Date	Port Click to Expand	Arrival	Departure
	May 18 – Sat	Athens – Greece		16:00
Individual arrival in Athens ~ embarkation on  Seabourn Spirit If True Greece has arranged for your pre-cruise experience at a luxury Athens hotel, before meeting your private car transfer to board your cruise at the port of Piraeus, enjoy a True Greece guided tour of Athens and the Acropolis. Together with your local True Greece guide, the highlights tour will expose you to this diverse city - birth place of modern democracy and cradle of western civilization. Follow your True Greece guide up the steps once taken by ancients like Socrates, Pericles and Plato, and gaze at the ‘sacred’ Acropolis, home to the magnificent and architecturally unique Parthenon. Allow your True Greece guide to bring the city of Athens and this exceptional experience to life, with a wealth of historical and cultural information. As part of your tour, you will also have the opportunity to visit significant and historically important sites, such as the Parliament Building, the Monument of the Unknown Soldier, the Columns of Olympian Zeus, and the Presidential Mansion. Following your tour, board your cruise ship at Athens’ main port of Piraeus - Greece's largest port and gateway to the Mediterranean since 482 BC! We wish you an exceptional cruise experience!
	May 19 – Sun	Santorini – Greece	08:00	17:00
Santorini, world-renowned for its widely photographed, romantic sunsets and unique, volcanic natural environment, is arguably the most striking of the Greek islands. Its dramatic red and black sand beaches, narrow white-washed alleys, exquisite traditional and international cuisine, as well as its agricultural and wine-making tradition, make Santorini a truly spectacular island. If you have included a True Greece tour or excursion today in Santorini, meet your guide or transfer agent upon arrival at the harbor and begin your exploration of this incredible island under the care of a True Greece affiliate.
	May 20 – Mon	Rhodes – Greece	08:00	23:00
Rhodes, an island famed for its beaches and its medieval main town, is the largest of the Dodecanese islands. The Old Town of Rhodes, a mixture of Medieval, Ottoman, and Greek architecture, offers itself for enchanting walks among narrow alleys – as well as some of the finest shopping around. Rhodes is also an island rich in history: the majestic Palace of the Grand Masters conveys a sense of the power that the medieval Knights exercised over the island for over 200 years, and the Acropolis of Lindos, one of the three original Dorian Greek cities on Rhodes, boasts to be home of the columns of the Temple of Athena (c. 350 BC), one of the most photographed buildings of ancient Greece. If you have included a True Greece tour or excursion today in Rhodes, meet your guide or transfer agent upon arrival at the harbor and begin your exploration of this incredible island under the care of True Greece.
	May 21 – Tue	Fethiye – Turkey	08:00	18:00
Located in the Aegean region of Turkey, Fethiye in ancient times was a prominent city and the center of prophecy, pledged to Apollon, with a recorded history starting in the 5th century BC. At this time the city was called Telmessos and it was rich and highly cultured during the Hellenistic and Roman periods, evident in today’s still existing monuments. Modern Fethiye is located on the site of the ancient city of Telmessos, the ruins of which can be seen throughout the city. In recent years, Fethiye has become one of Turkey's well-known tourist centres and is especially popular during the summer. Apart from its climate and natural beauty, Fethiye attracts travelers as a economical vacation destination with especially hospitable local people. Be sure to explore the Fethiye Museum, rich in ancient artifacts that testify to the successive chain of civilizations that existed in the area, or the Tomb of Amyntas, a large and beautiful tomb built in 350 BC by the Lycians.
	May 22 – Wed	Bodrum –Turkey	08:00	18:00
Tucked into a peninsula of the same name, Bodrum is a port town in the south-western Aegean Region of Turkey. It is an international center of tourism and yachting, renowned as a vacation paradise with a mix of sandy coasts, secluded bays, evergreen forests and rocky cliffs. As you approach the port, you will be welcomed by the white-washed houses that fan down a gentle slope to its superb enclosed harbor. Birth place of Herodotus (also known as “the father of written history”), Bodrum is the Turkish name for the ancient city of Halicarnassus, and the first town in Turkey to experience a tourist boom. Until the 6th century BC, Bodrum (also known as Halicarnassus) is said to have either been a Dorian city or at least a member of the Dorian Confederation, including the Greek island of Kos, as well as cities on the island of Rhodes. Eventually, Halicarnassus became a Christian city as part of the Byzantine Empire, but by 1392 the city was annexed to the Ottoman Empire. Around this time, the Knights of St. John were engaged in fights with the Turks and by 1402 the Knights were granted right to settle and govern the city. The city would again be surrendered to the Ottomans by 1522 and renamed Bodrum. During WW1, the city of Bodrum was taken over by Italian forces, but in 1923 it was awarded to the new Turkish Republic.
	May 23 – Thu	Chios – Greece	08:00	18:00
Chios is the fifth largest of the Greek islands, situated in the eastern Aegean Sea, only about five miles off the coast of Turkey. The island is known for its strong merchant shipping community, its production of mastic gum and its picturesque medieval villages. It is also home to Nea Moni ("New Monastery"), an 11th century monastery, which has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is famous for its beautiful mosaics. Chios Town, the island’s administrative, cultural and educational center is located on the eastern coast.  Although the town experienced major damages and lost a great part of its beautiful architecture in a disastrous earthquake in 1881, a part of the old city still remains, hosting Neoclassical buildings, mosques as well as buildings with a strong Arabic influence. North of Chios Town lies the suburb of Vrontados, which claims to be the birthplace of the great poet Homer - a theory that is supported by an archaeological site known as "Teacher's Rock".
	May 24 – Fri	Limnos – Greece	07:00	14:00
According to ancient mythology, Hephaestus (Vulcan), the god of fire and volcanoes, was cast off from Mount Olympus, landing on Limnos. The people of the island took care of him and in return the god taught them his art of blacksmith. It was in Limnos that he built his palace and forges under a volcano. Limnos is a beautiful island located in the northern Aegean Sea that offers a quiet and more off-the-beaten path Greek island experience. Since Limnos did not experience the same tourist boom as other Greek islands in the 70s and 80s, it has remained very much ‘untouched’ by mass tourism – leaving it a refreshing destination to discover. Limnos offers its visitors a surprisingly diverse landscape of bays, gulfs, sandy beaches, and fishing harbors, combined with rocky points, a rustic interior with several lakes, and pink flamingos!
	May 25 – Sat	Istanbul –Turkey	07:00
Arrival Istanbul ~ individual departure. If True Greece has arranged for your post-cruise experience, meet your private driver upon arrival at the cruise terminal who will transfer you to your luxury hotel in Istanbul. If asked to name a city in the world that most evokes a sense of the exotic, of immense beauty, and of intrigue and mystery, many people would name Istanbul. Standing over two continents, three empires, several cultures, and thousands of years of history, it is a truly international city – one that seems to have long drawn people to project their own fantasies onto it. Arguably the greatest appeal of Istanbul is the unique combination of its rich history and historical structures with its cosmopolitan feel. While the city’s unique past will fascinate you and the various monuments will evoke a genuine sense of awe, perfectly combined with an oriental feel in many areas of the city. In Istanbul, there is no doubt that you are in a fabulous city like no other on this planet. If you did not have the opportunity to enjoy our True Greece guided tour of Istanbul, this is the perfect time to have us make these arrangements for you. As a guest of True Greece, we can fulfil exactly the experience that you are looking for during your stay in Istanbul!

 

Cruises are subject to availability. Itineraries and times are subject to change. Click on ports for detailed information.

Ships' Registry: Bahamas

Since each individual’s accommodation preferences differ and cruise fares constantly change based on availability, to learn more about this cruise please contact a True Greece Concierge to begin planning a cruise trip customized to your needs.

Athens            

• True Greece Acropolis & Athens City Tour
  
  Meaning “peak of the city” in Greek, the Ancient Acropolis stands proudly above the city of Athens; birth place of modern democracy and the cradle of western civilization. Follow your True Greece guide up the steps once taken by ancients like Socrates, Pericles and Plato, and gaze at the “sacred” Acropolis, home to the magnificent and architecturally unique Parthenon. Allow your True Greece guide to bring the city of Athens and this exceptional experience to life, with a wealth of historical and cultural information. Visit significant and historically important sites, such as the Parliament Building, the Monument of the Unknown Soldier, the Columns of Olympian Zeus, and the Presidential Mansion.

Santorini
    

• TrueGreece Authentic Santorini Cooking Lesson
  
  With more than 300 days of sunshine over its rich volcanic soil, Santorini yields a bounty of unusual indigenous herbs and vegetables, such as white eggplant, capers and caper leaves, fava (small yellow peas), and exquisite baby tomatoes, which are all grown virtually without water. You will be welcomed to one of the best restaurants on Santorini with fresh juice, coffee and traditional Greek cookies. While sampling different wines and some local Cycladic side dishes, you will talk about the cuisine of the Cycladic Islands and particularly that of Santorini. Having an introduction to the various grape varieties grown on the island, you will begin your gastronomic experience. You will learn how to prepare an entire Greek menu: an appetizer, a salad, a main course, and a dessert. After a short, but much anticipated wait you will be able to enjoy the fruit of your labor accompanied by a bottle of delicious wine from Santorini. This gastronomic experience will last approximately 5 hours (including lunch), and will surely provide you with plenty of culinary ideas to surprise everyone back home.

• TrueGreece Semi-Private Santorini Sailing Trip
  
  Step aboard a luxurious catamaran and embark on your unforgettable semi private Santorini sailing trip. Acquaint yourself with your fellow travelers and embark on an experience that won't be "just another boat ride!"  Starting from the south side of Santorini you will sail past the spectacular White & Red beaches, the Venetian lighthouse and visit remote locations around the island where you will be able to swim and snorkel in the clear waters. Anchored in a private bay inside the caldera you will enjoy a freshly prepared traditional seafood and steak barbeque served with many Greek appetizers and salads. This spectacular sailing trip runs for approximately five hours and will definitely be one of the highlights of your TrueGreece experience.

• TrueGreece Santorini Tour
  
  Due to its unique morphology and distinctive history, Santorini is regarded by some as the lost island of “Atlantis.” Perched elegantly on the cliffs overseeing the Aegean Sea, the towns of Santorini offer a diverse variety of activities and sights. Coordinate with your TrueGreece guide and shape your tour in order to fully appreciate this stunning island. Whether you choose to visit the Prehistoric Museum in Fira, a traditional winery in Oia or the Byzantine church of Panagia Episkopi, by the end of the day you will leave you with a sense that you have discovered the lost island of “Atlantis.”

• TrueGreece Santorini Winery Experience
  
  Since ancient times the rich volcanic soil and distinctive microclimate of Santorini has been ideal for the cultivation of vineyards and the production of wine. Explore a local winery and observe the unique way in which the vineyards are pruned and the wine produced. After this brief introduction to the rich wine making tradition of Santorini take part in a wine tasting where you will have the pleasure of sampling several local varieties complimented by an assortment of traditional Cycladic appetizers and spoon deserts.

        

• Santorini Wine Roads Tour
  
  Discover the secrets of wine making, on the unique volcanic island of Santorini. Stroll through vineyards that manage to grow on a rainless and infertile land, to produce some of the most distinctive wine varieties in the world. With the assistance of your sommelier explore wineries where thousand year old traditions meet harmoniously with technological and scientific advancement in the field of wine making. Visit three well known wine estates and sample 15 different types and styles of wine under the guidance of an experienced sommelier. Complement this unique experience with an assortment of Greek cheeses and olives that will bring the flavors of Santorini to life.

• Santorini Wine and Food Tasting
  
  Discover the secrets of wine making, on the unique volcanic island of Santorini. Stroll through vineyards that manage to grow on a rainless and infertile land, to produce some of the most distinctive wine varieties in the world. With the assistance of your sommelier explore wineries where thousand year old traditions meet harmoniously with technological and scientific advancement in the field of wine making. Visit two well known wine estates and sample 10 different types and styles of wine under the guidance of an experienced sommelier. Complement this unique experience with an enjoyable greek-meze lunch or dinner in a traditional settlement, bringing the flavors of Santorini to life.

Rhodes

• TrueGreece Palace of the Grand Master & Castle of the Knights Tour
  
  There can be no denying that the main attraction of Rhodes Island is the Medieval Town. Built by the Knights of St. John during the late 15th and early 16th century the great walls, large towers, imposing gates and impressive bastions stand as a reminder to all visitors of the power once wielded by this island. Follow your TrueGreece guide through the monumental and majestic Palace of the Grand Masters, with its imposing entrance and learn about the history that shaped the island. While walking through the narrow medieval streets wonder at some of the delights pointed out by your Truegreece guide. Churches, synagogues, public buildings, archways, courtyards, gardens, Turkish baths, will all blend together and create a unique, picturesque and enchanting experience. 
  
  
• TrueGreece Lindos Tour
  
  The island of Rhodes has been a significant cultural, religious and military crossroads throughout history. Nowhere is this more evident than on the Acropolis of Lindos, which has been continuously fortified and improved during the centuries by the various governors of the island. The Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, the Knights of St John, and the Ottomans have all helped create the magnificent site visible today. Walk with your TrueGreece guide through the striking ruins and marvel at the history which exudes from this natural fortress.

Istanbul

• Istanbul Tour
  
  Standing firmly over two continents, Istanbul is the personification of a true “cosmopolitan” city. Your TrueTurkey guide will show you this multi-cultural and historic city through the eyes of a local. Depending on the day of your Istanbul tour you will have the opportunity to visit the Blue Mosque and its superb inner courtyard, the Hippodrome originally built by the Roman Emperor Septimus Severus in 203 AD, the magnificent Byzantine church of St. Sophia, the Underground Cistern built during the reign of Constantine I, the Topkapi Palace where the Ottoman Sultans presided over their vast empire and the Grand Bazaar where almost 5,000 shops are spread out in a giant maze of small streets and passages that are arranged according to their trade. By the end of this fascinating day you will feel like a citizen of this “international” city.

Let our True Greece Concierges do what they do best ~ take care of you!

Our Concierges are experts in creating a travel experience that is exactly what you’re looking for. Take advantage of our expert knowledge and work together with one of our Concierges to plan your pre/post cruise experience or perhaps even extend your travel experience to include a True Greece customized trip or a True Turkey customized trip add-on. Experience our renowned ‘on-the-ground’ service and allow us the opportunity to create an authentic and memorable experience for you.