Date	Port Click to Expand	Arrival	Departure
	Oct 5 – Sat	Istanbul – Turkey		16:00
If True Greece has arranged for your pre-cruise experience at a luxury Istanbul hotel, before meeting your private car transfer to board your cruise, enjoy a guided tour of the incredible city of Istanbul. 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. Following your tour, board your cruise ship at Istanbul’s main port and begin your journey of the Eastern Mediterranean. We wish you an exceptional cruise experience!
	Oct 6 – Sun	Limnos – Greece	11:00	18:00
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!
	Oct 7 – Mon	Izmir – Turkey	08:00	23:00
Izmir is one of the oldest settlements of the Mediterranean. Today it is a large metropolis located in western Anatolia, and Turkey’s third largest city in population. This ancient city was also known as Smyrna until 1930, when the Turkish Postal Services Law made "Izmir" the internationally recognized name. Considering its location at the head of a gulf, Izmir has been a primary mercantile city of the Mediterranean for much of its history and continues to be one of Turkey’s primary ports for exports.
	Oct 8 – Tue	Cesme – Turkey	08:00	18:00
Cesme means ‘fountain’ or ‘spring’ in Turkish and is a popular beach town surrounded by blue seas, along the beautiful Mediterranean Riviera. This coastal town in the Aegean Region has become one of Turkey’s prominent centers of international travel and tourism; it is a well-regarded location of wealthy Izmirian country homes as well as a retreat for the Istanbul elite.
	Oct 9 – Wed	Patmos – Greece	08:00	18:00
Patmos is considered by many to be the secret gem of the Aegean. Sheltered from the herds of mass tourism, Patmos features a variety of truly beautiful village settlements, scenic beaches, elegant restaurants and traditional tavernas. Chora, one of its main villages, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, while the unique scenery and tranquillity of the island has inspired Forbes Magazine to describe Patmos as the most idyllic place to live in Europe! If you have included a True Greece guided tour of the Cave of the Apocalypse and the Monastery of St. John, Hora you will meet with your private tour guide upon arrival at the port. Explore the island's historic Monastery that St. Christodoulos built in 1088 AD, and visit its impressive exhibition of ecclesiastical embroideries, pendants, ceremonial artifacts, rare manuscripts and beautiful icons. Continue your tour by following your True Greece guide through the magical maze like streets of Hora, where you will be able to enjoy the authentic beauty of the best preserved medieval settlements in the Aegean. After this small adventure make your way to the Cave of the Apocalypse, where St. John is said to have written the Book of Revelation. Whether you identify with the pious or the religiously indifferent you will definitely feel the mysticism and spirituality of this location.
	Oct 10 – Thu	Santorini – Greece	08:00	23:00
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.
	Oct 11 – Fri	Paros (Naoussa) – Greece	08:00	17:00
To Greeks – and those “in the know” – each Greek island is distinctive, even unique, but if there is one that seems to combine many of the elements that attract visitors to the Greek Islands it might be Paros. This impression begins the moment you approach the island by sea to be greeted by the white “cubic” buildings typical of the Cyclades. It will continue as you move around the island to experience its softly contoured hills, picturesque villages, natural environment, and the village life of the locals. It will be confirmed when you begin to explore the island with its archaeological and historical remains that testify to Greece’s age-old culture. And it will be satisfied when you settle on one of the lovely beaches or into a fine restaurant. Then you, too, will realize that, in Paros, you have found your ideal typical Greek island. Naoussa, the second biggest town of the island is often still referred to as a traditional fishing village although here as well, an increasing growth of tourism has been accommodated by the locals. Still Naoussa has kept quite a bit of its authenticity and original character. Visit for example the little port, surrounded by a wide choice of taverns and cafés and packed with traditional little fishing boats. If you prefer to hit the beaches, you are also in the right spot: Some of Paros’ most beautiful and popular beaches are located just around the village, for example "Kolimbithres", "Monastiri Beach" or "Santa Maria" to name a few. Most of them can be easily reached after a short water taxi ride or via foot paths. Those who rather stay in town may want to visit one of its beautiful churches, for example its main church, Kimissis tis Theotokou (the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin), located on the highest spot of the village, or the Church of Agios Nikolaos (Saint Nicholas) which also houses a small Byzantine Museum exposing 13th century icons.
	Oct 12 – Sat	Athens – Greece	07:00
Arrival Athens ~ individual departure. Disembark your cruise ship at Athens’ main port of Piraeus - Greece's largest port and gateway to the Mediterranean since 482 BC! If True Greece has arranged for your post-cruise experience, upon arrival at the Piraeus cruise terminal meet your private driver who will transfer you to your luxury hotel in Athens; then 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. If you have already had the opportunity of exploring Athens and its historically significant monuments, it would be our pleasure to arrange a guided tour to one of the many famous ancient sites outside of the city – perhaps Ancient Delphi or the Temple of Zeus at Sounio. Whatever your preferences, we can fulfil exactly what you are looking for…and more!

 

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.

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.

Izmir

• Ephesus Tour
  
  Located close to the coast in the Aegean Region, Ephesus boasts a rich and vibrant history and has become famous for its incredible historical landmarks, such as the Library of Celsus, the magnificent ancient theater, and the famous Terrace Houses. Explore this wonderful archaeological site with the assistance of you TrueTurkey guide and marvel at one of the best preserved cities of the Ancient world. Reaching its climax during the Roman period when it was regarded as the second largest city in the world, it is here where St Paul stayed for nearly 3 years preaching his beliefs. Considered as one of the seven Churches of Asia by Saint John in the Book of Revelations, Ephesus was also the site of the Temple of Artemis which was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient world.

Patmos

• TrueGreece Cave of the Apocalypse, Monastery of St. John & Patmos Hora Tour
  
  Explore the island's historic Monastery that St. Christodoulos built in 1088 AD, and visit its impressive exhibition of ecclesiastical embroideries, pendants, ceremonial artifacts, rare manuscripts and beautiful icons. Continue your tour by following your TrueGreece guide through the magical maze like streets of Hora, where you will be able to enjoy the authentic beauty of the best preserved medieval settlements in the Aegean. After this small adventure make your way to the Cave of the Apocalypse where St. John is said to have written the Book of Revelation. Whether you identify with the pious or the religiously indifferent you will definitely feel the mysticism and spirituality of this location.

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.

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.

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.