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Seabourn Cruises Athens to Istanbul: Sept 28 – Oct 05, 2013

Athens – Milos – Santorini – Mykonos – Kusadasi – Chios – Canakkale – Istanbul

Cruise Company: Seabourn Cruises
Ship Name: Seabourn Odyssey
Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights
Travel Dates: 28 Sep 2013 - 05 Oct 2013
Cruise Code: Seabourn


 DatePort Click to ExpandArrivalDeparture
 
Sep 28 – Sat Athens – Greece 16:00
Individual arrival in Athens ~ embarkation on the Seabourn Odyssey.

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!
 
Sep 29 – Sun Milos – Greece 08:00 17:00
Milos is a unique horse-shoe shaped volcanic island located at the most south-western part of the Cyclades group of islands in the Aegean. It boasts one of the largest natural harbors in the Mediterranean and is rich in natural resources. Although Milos can be remembered as a picturesque Cycladic island, you will soon learn that it is most well-known for the ‘Venus de Milo’ statue of Aphrodite that is now at the Louvre in France, as well as a statue of the Greek god Asclepius that is now at the British Museum in the United Kingdom. Enjoy your day meeting the hospitable locals, swimming in incredibly clear waters, and exploring this distinct island and its interesting lunar landscape with incredible rock formations!
 
Sep 30 – Mon 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 1 – Tue Mykonos – Greece 08:00 18:00
Cosmopolitan Mykonos, with its wonderful beaches, impressive restaurants, and energetic nightlife, offers a more adventurous yet genuinely Greek experience. In Mykonos, freedom of expression is visible in every corner, and the combination of such a tranquil setting with a vibrant social scene has elevated the island to a premier destination for travelers from around the world. Get lost in the labyrinth of narrow streets lined with white washed houses, shops, cafes, and bars. Enjoy an exciting evening on this island and as the sun-sets, watch the island literally come alive!

If you have included a True Greece guided tour of Delos, today you will explore a neighboring island to Mykonos that during ancient times, according to Greek mythology, was a moving island that freely roamed the sea. Today it is quite stable and only a short boat ride from Mykonos. Your True Greece guide will show you this fascinating archaeological site, and guide you through the numerous statues, pillars, temples and mosaics. Walking amongst the ruins you will undoubtedly feel the spiritual ambiance of this island, which is regarded as one of the most important and sacred sites of the ancient world.
 
Oct 2 – Wed Kusadasi – Turkey 08:00 23:00
Kusadasi – meaning “bird island” – is a lively resort town located on Turkey’s Aegean Coast. The area’s history dates back as far as 3000 B.C. and has been a center of art and culture of many civilizations since. Before becoming a popular vacation spot in the 1980’s, Kusadasi itself was a modest town with a population consisting mostly of farmers and fishermen, while today’s Kusadasi resembles a modern European city.

Head out for some shopping into the maze of pedestrian roads in the old quarter, where you can find some traditional Turkish goods, like leather, carpets, jewellery, ceramics, etc. On the way there, just outside the port you will pass the The Öküz Mehmet Pasha caravanserai. Built in the early 17th century, it once served as a roadside inn for travelers to rest and recover from the day's journey. Alternatively, take a walk along the bay and visit the peninsula Guvercin Adası ("Pigeon Island") that hosts a castle and several beaches, including a private beach with a café facing the town and the port, and public beaches facing the open sea.

If you have included a private guided tour of Ephesus, you will meet with your guide and driver and head toward this breathtaking ancient site. 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 your 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 three 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.
 
Oct 3 – Thu Chios – Greece 08:00 17:00
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".
 
Oct 4 – Fri Canakkale – Turkey 08:00 18:00
Çanakkale is a town located on the southern (Asian) coast of the Dardanelles strait. Like Istanbul, it is situated between the two continents of Asia and Europe and has been a crossing point from Asia to Europe for centuries; Persian King Xerxes crossed in 481 B.C., and Alexander the Great a century and a half later. During the days of the Ottomans, it was used by their armies to march into Europe. In the 19th century, the area witnessed one of the bloodiest wars of World War I in the nearby battlefields of Gallipoli. It is also the nearest city to the ancient site of Troy, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, discovered in 1865-66 by archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann. The area has been of great strategic and economic importance as the gateway to Istanbul and the Black Sea from the Mediterranean.
 
Oct 5 – 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.


The below True Greece Private Guided Tours and Activities are available at an additional cost. For more information, please contact a True Greece Concierge

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.


Mykonos

  • True Greece Delos Tour

    During ancient times, according to Greek mythology, Delos was a moving island that freely roamed the sea. Today it is quite stable and only a short boat ride from Mykonos. Your True Greece guide will show you this fascinating archaeological site, and guide you through the numerous statues, pillars, temples and mosaics. Walking amongst the ruins you will undoubtedly feel the spiritual ambiance of this island, which is regarded as one of the most important and sacred sites of the ancient world.

  • True Greece Mykonos Town Tour

    An archetype of Cycladic architecture, Mykonos Town or Hora is protected by Greek law in order to sustain its beauty and elegance. Follow your True Greece guide and get a local’s perspective of this architecturally exceptional location. Visit a rare jewel of traditional Greek Architecture, the Church of Panayia Paraportyanni which dates back to the 15th century. Learn the history and significance of the trademark windmills of Mykonos and visit a local bakery where you can sample some of their fresh produce. You will also have a chance to visit the quaint local archaeological museum and walk around “Little Venice.”


Kusadasi

  • 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.

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.
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