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SeaDream Yacht Club Istanbul to Venice: June 05 - June 16, 2013

Istanbul – Kepez – Kusadasi – Mykonos – Santorini – Itea – Parga – Dubrovnik – Hvar – Sibenik – Rovinj – Venice

Cruise Company: SeaDream Yacht Club
Ship Name: SeaDream I
Duration: 12 Days / 11 Nights
Travel Dates: 05 Jun 2013 - 16 Jun 2013
Cruise Code: SeaDream 11323


 DatePort Click to ExpandArrivalDeparture
 
Jun 5 – Wed Istanbul – Turkey 18:00
Individual arrival in Istanbul ~ embarkation on the SeaDream I.

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 True Greece 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!
 
Jun 6 – Thu Kepez – Turkey Morning Afternoon
Kepez is a seaside town in the Province of Canakkale, Turkey. This port is an excellent jump-off point to the town of Canakkale, and sites of Troy and Gallipolli. In the 19th century, the area witnessed one of the worst wars of World War I in the nearby battlefields of Gallipoli. This area is also known for the ancient site of Troy, discovered in 1865-66 by archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann, and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The area has been of great strategic and economic importance as the gateway to Istanbul and the Black Sea from the Mediterranean.
 
Jun 7 – Fri Kusadasi – Turkey Morning Late Evening
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.
 
Jun 8 – Sat Mykonos – Greece Morning Late Evening
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.
 
Jun 9 – Sun Santorini – Greece Morning Evening
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.
 
Jun 10 – Mon

Passage Corinth Canal
Itea – Greece
Morning
Mid-Day
Morning
Evening
We are working on providing a description of this particular port of call - please check back later.
 
Jun 11 – Tue Parga – Greece Morning Afternoon
Parga is a picturesque resort town situated on the northwestern coast of Greece between Preveza and Igoumenitsa. Amphitheatrically built, it uniquely combines mountain and sea. The village of Parga, once known as Hypargos was founded in the early 13th century and originally built on top of the mountain "Pezovolo". In 1360, in order to protect the city from the Albanians, the Pargians transferred it to its present location.
Although located on the mainland, its beautiful scenery, the relaxed resort atmosphere  and the stunning beaches around Parga will make you feel as if you were on one of the Greek islands.
When visiting Parga for a day, perhaps you are interested in exploring the old Venetian Castle. The castle is built on a hill overlooking the town and offering magnificent views of the area. It was initially built in the 11th century by the locals to protect the area from pirates and the Turks but was destroyed and rebuilt multiple times in the following centuries. Today, one can still discover some interesting details around the castle, such as the Lion of Venice in the entrance, emblems of Ali Pasha, two-headed eagles, some inscriptions and a secret path to the sea. There is a café inside the castle offering drinks and snacks, as well as a  gift shop for some souvenirs.
 
Jun 12 – Wed Dubrovnik – Croatia Mid-Day Late Evening
A Croatian seaport city on the Adriatic coast, Dubrovnik is one of the most prominent destinations on the Adriatic. The Republic of Ragusa, as Dubrovnik was called in the Middle Ages, joined the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites in 1979; it was a Maritime Republic (together with Amalfi, Pisa, Genoa, Venice and other Italian cities), and became the only eastern Adriatic city-state to rival Venice. The city has always been based on maritime trade, and it achieved and prospered a high level of development, particularly during the 15th and 16th centuries.
Dubrovnik offers its visitors many incredible old buildings, such as the Arboretum Trsteno, the oldest arboretum in the world, which dates back to before 1492. Also, the third oldest European pharmacy is located in the city, which dates back to 1317 (still in operation today)! In Dubrovnik’s bay there is a 72-hectare wooded island of Lokrum, where according to legend, Richard the Lionheart was cast ashore after being shipwrecked in 1192 - this island includes a fortress, botanical garden, monastery and naturist beach. Some excellent beaches to consider while in Dubrovnik are Banje, Dubrovnik's main public beach, home to the East-West Beach Club, or Copacabana Beach, a stony beach on the Lapad peninsula, named after the popular beach in Rio de Janeiro.
 
Jun 13 – Thu Hvar – Croatia Morning Late Evening
We are working on providing a description of this particular port of call - please check back later.
 
Jun 14 – Fri Sibenik – Croatia Morning Evening
The city of Sibenik is located on the Croatian coast some 80 km north of the more famous town of Split. As it is positioned in the deep bay, it is one of the most naturally protected harbors on the Adriatic coast. Although Sibenik is less known than Dubrovnik and Split, it has its own personality and some great things to see and enjoy. The atmosphere in Sibenik is youthful and lively. Narrow streets lead to attractive squares where modern and stylish shop windows unite with the fine architecture of vanished centuries.                                                           One of the things not to be missed is Sibenik’s cathedral –Sveti Jakov. Built back in 1434, it is an important Croatian Renaissance building and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The cathedral lies just underneath the fortress walls of the town in the old area of Sibenik. Other places of interest in Sibenik include the town hall, the churches of St. Barbara and St. Fran as well as many small town palaces, fortresses and other churches all spread throughout the city.
 
Jun 15 – Thu Rovinj – Croatia Morning Evening
We are working on providing a description of this particular port of call - please check back later.
 
Jun 16 – Fri Venice – Italy Morning
Arrival Venice ~ individual departure.

If True Greece has arranged for your post-cruise experience, upon arrival at the cruise terminal meet your private driver who will transfer you to your luxury hotel in Venice.

 

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



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

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.

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.

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.”


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.


Itea

  • TrueGreece Delphi Tour

    The sanctuary of Delphi is located within the stunning natural environment of Mt. Parnassos. Surrounded by beautiful forests and brilliant vistas, no wonder this site was regarded by the ancients as the “navel” of the world. According to Greek Mythology, it is here that two eagles sent out by Zeus from the ends of the creation met, thus pinpointing the center of the earth. Regarded as a spiritual, cultural and religious center, Delphi soon gave rise to the renowned Oracle, which according to legend predicted, amongst other things, the heroic fall of King Leonidas of Sparta at Thermopylae. Your TrueGreece guide will walk you through this fascinating archaeological site and expose you to the myths and legends of ancient Greece.


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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