Day 1

Crete (Heraklion), Depart 19:00
The seafaring city of Heraklion is where you set off on your Aegean adventure. Enjoy the calm of the stunning seafront, explore the Cretan countryside or discover the Palace of Knossos. Your spellbinding cruise awaits – but not before you’ve unravelled the mysteries and wonders of Heraklion. Was the minotaur half-man or myth? You’re about to find out.

Day 2-3

Santorini (Greece), Depart 00:30
The romantic island of Santorini is the remnants of a devastating volcanic eruption in the 16th-Century BC. The picture-perfect scenery features clustered traditional whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches set against a beguiling brilliant blue backdrop. Here you will have the chance to experience the Mediterranean lifestyle of the idyllic oasis and relax in the island’s calm and tranquillity.

Day 3-4

Mykonos (Greece), Depart 02:00
The sun-drenched island of Mykonos is affectionately known as the ‘Island of the Winds’. Easily recognised by its iconic 16th-Century windmills perched high on the hill, the vibrant Mykonos Town is an alluring landscape of smooth sandy beaches dotted along a dramatic coastline. Indulge in the islands culinary delights or take a short boat trip to explore the sacred island of Delos.

Day 4

Milos, Depart 19:00
The volcanic origins of the beautiful Greek island of Milos are clearly evident in its complex and bewitching landscape. Here you have the opportunity to explore the dramatically surreal and sculptured looming rock formations that rise out of the crystalline waters and create the stunning coastline. Why not join a local expert to explore the many beauty spots and charming fishing villages.

Day 5

Athens (Greece), Depart 17:00
We pull into the magical city of Athens, one of the most fascinating cities in the world. Join your included tour to the crowning glory of Athens. Join our expert guide and discover the fascinating history of ancient Greece and witness the enduring image of the Parthenon up close and personal.

Day 6

Thessaloniki (Greece), Depart 19:00
Thessaloniki is a gorgeous and cosmopolitan seaside city and the largest in Greece after Athens. Centuries of cultural commingling has also made Thessaloniki a culinary nirvana, with almost too many great restaurants and little eateries to count.

Day 7

Kusadasi (Turkey), Depart 19:00
The dynamic beach resort of Kusadasi welcomes you with its warm and friendly ambience. From here you will be whisked away for a guided tour round ancient Ephesus, one of the highlights of this iconic Aegean cruise. Before rebounding the ship, take time to enjoy the scenic seafront promenade and the town’s impressive Grand Bazaar.

Day 8

Crete(Heraklion), Arrive 08:00
While your cruise may be coming to an end, the ancient Cretan city of Heraklion still lies ahead. Learn about Europe’s first civilisation in the Knossos museum and snap the imposing 16th-century walls of Koules Fortress as you get to know this charming port city. Take in the views of the stunning waterfront or explore the Cretan countryside. As your cruise draws to a close, you’ll leave with fond memories of this iconic city.

Day 1

Kusadasi(Turkey), Depart 19:00
Your adventure begins in the dynamic beach resort of Kusadasi, famous for its warm and friendly ambiance. Before you set sail with us, take the time to enjoy the scenic seafront promenade and the town’s impressive Grand Bazaar to really kickstart your Aegean adventure.

Day 2

Crete (Heraklion), Depart 19:00
As we pull into Heraklion, you have the chance to snap the imposing 16th-Century walls of Koules Fortress. Here you can enjoy the calm of the stunning waterfront, explore the Cretan countryside or discover the Palace of Knossos. This spellbinding tour invites you to listen to tales of intrigue and learn about Europe’s first civilisation in the Knossos museum. Was the Minotaur half-man or myth? You’re about to find out!

Day 3-4

Santorini (Greece), Depart 00:30
The romantic island of Santorini is the remnants of a devastating volcanic eruption in the 16th-Century BC. The picture-perfect scenery features clustered traditional whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches set against a beguiling brilliant blue backdrop. Here you will have the chance to experience the Mediterranean lifestyle of the idyllic oasis and relax in the island’s calm and tranquillity.

Day 4-5

Mykonos (Greece), Depart 02:00
The sun-drenched island of Mykonos is affectionately known as the ‘Island of the Winds’. Easily recognised by its iconic 16th-Century windmills perched high on the hill, the vibrant Mykonos Town is an alluring landscape of smooth sandy beaches dotted along a dramatic coastline. Indulge in the islands culinary delights or take a short boat trip to explore the sacred island of Delos.

Day 5

Milos, Depart 19:00
The volcanic origins of the beautiful Greek island of Milos are clearly evident in its complex and bewitching landscape. Here you have the opportunity to explore the dramatically surreal and sculptured looming rock formations that rise out of the crystalline waters and create the stunning coastline. Why not join a local expert to explore the many beauty spots and charming fishing villages.

Day 6

Athens (Greece), Depart 17:00
We pull into the magical city of Athens, one of the most fascinating cities in the world. Join your included tour to the crowning glory of Athens. Join our expert guide and discover the fascinating history of ancient Greece and witness the enduring image of the Parthenon up close and personal.

Day 7

Thessaloniki (Greece), Depart 19:00
Thessaloniki is a gorgeous and cosmopolitan seaside city and the largest in Greece after Athens. Centuries of cultural commingling has also made Thessaloniki a culinary nirvana, with almost too many great restaurants and little eateries to count.

Day 8

Kusadasi (Turkey), Arrival 13:00
Kusadasi has been an important port for centuries, hosting a variety of civilizations and for a time some of the most infamous pirates of the Mediterranean. Sizzling beaches next to sparkling blue water, lively bars and a bustling Grand Bazaar add up to exciting times in this buzzing Turkish city, but above all, it is the chief point of entry to the magnificent ruins of Ephesus.

Day 1 | Friday

ATHENS, MARINA ZEAS (PIRAEUS) - POROS
The adventure begins. Join us on board as you get to know your home at sea, and fellow travellers, over a welcome drink. We’ll set sail, heading for Poros and arriving just in time for dinner. Relax and find out more about each other, before our overnight journey to Poliegos.

Day 2 | Saturday

POLIEGOS - FOLEGANDROS
Wake up in uninhabited Poliegos. The hardest decision you’ll make today is whether to jump into the sea, or to enjoy breakfast on deck. We recommend you do both. In the afternoon we’ll sail to Folegandros to explore the town and Venetian castle, before dressing for dinner and tasting traditional Greek food at a local taverna. Overnight in Folegandros.

Day 3 | Sunday

SANTORINI
Santorini calling. We’ll arrive early with plenty of time to explore the capital, Fira, as well as the smaller village of Oia with its blue-domed views over the caldera. This is the place to get those Instagram shots. Optional tour of the archaeological site, Akrotiri. As evening falls, enjoy the world-famous Santorini sunset with sundowners on deck. Overnight in Santorini.

Day 4 | Monday

ANTIPAROS - PAROS
Today we’ll sail to Paros, with a quick stop in a beautiful bay on neighbouring Antiparos. Yes, you’re welcome to dive in. In Paros, explore both the port city of Parikia, and Naoussa - a quaint, and incredibly photogenic village in the north. Tonight it’s time to show off your dance and plate smashing skills at Greek Night. Overnight in Paros.

Day 5 | Tuesday

DELOS - MYKONOS
Before waving ahoy to Mykonos, we’ll stop for a few hours at sacred Delos. The island is an archaeological site, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Join us on a guided tour before we sail to more hedonistic Mykonos. Here, the night is yours. Join the jet-set and vibe at the hottest bars and restaurants. Overnight in Mykonos - in case you don’t want to leave the party early!

Day 6 | Wednesday

SYROS
Wake up and refresh with a morning dip in the sea then all aboard for the trip to Syros, the capital of the Cyclades. Here you can relax, rest, and rejuvenate on the beach, or take a tour of the town to learn about its unique architecture. Overnight in Syros.

Day 7 | Thursday

KYTHNOS - MARINA ZEAS (PIRAEUS)
We begin our journey back to Athens, with a last opportunity to jump into the inviting sea at Kolones Bay, Kythnos. Dry off as we sail towards Cape Sounion to hike up to the Temple of Poseidon. On arrival back at Marina Zea, enjoy a Captain's Farewell Dinner before bedding down for one more night on board.

Day 8 | Friday

ATHENS - MARINA ZEAS (PIRAEUS)
Breakfast and disembarkation at 8.30-9am. But this is not goodbye. We’re sure your cabin mates have become friends you’ll stay in touch with. As for us - we hope this is only bye for now, and that we’ll see you on one of our cruises again soon.

Day 1 | Friday

ATHENS, MARINA ZEAS (PIRAEUS) - KEA
Join us - and your fellow explorers - at Marina Zea in Athens for a welcome drink. Today we start our adventure. First stop: Cape Sounion to visit the Temple of Poseidon. Next up, the short sail across to Kea for dinner and exploration before we set sail again, this time to Delos. Overnight at sea.

Day 2 | Saturday

DELOS - MYKONOS
A day of contrasts: wake up in sacred Delos, the mythological birthplace of revered ancient Greek God, Apollo. The entire island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, one that we are proud to have pioneered the road to tourism to. Then onto cosmopolitan Mykonos - stopping en route for your first chance to dive from boat to sea. In Mykonos, the afternoon, evening and night are yours. Overnight in Mykonos: join us back on board after a night of partying with the jetset.

Day 3 | Sunday

SANTORINI
Relax with coffee and breakfast on deck this morning as we sail from Mykonos to Santorini. We know you’ll fall in love with this picturesque, volcanic island. Yes, the famous blue-domes overlooking the caldera are here, but so are archaeological sites, traditional villages, and more. Let us show you Santorini’s secrets on an optional tour.. Overnight sail to Crete.

Day 4 | Monday

RETHYMNON, CRETE
The day is yours in Crete. We’ll arrive early and leave late - how you spend the time in between is up to you. Perhaps you’ll take a wine tour, an archaeological excursion, learn about Cretean mythology? Tell us what you want to see and do and we’ll make it happen. Overnight at sea.

Day 5 | Tuesday

KYTHIRA
Ready. Steady. Jump! This morning is another chance to dive into those famous Aegean waters as we drop anchor on our way to Kythira. This lesser-known island is quickly gaining popularity; now is your chance for laid-back exploration. Ask our crew for restaurant recommendations in the main town of Chora. Overnight in Kythira.

Day 6 | Wednesday

MONEMVASIA - NAFPLION
We’ll depart early for the medieval, fortified town of Monemvasia. The stories here are endless, and come to life via the uniquely preserved Byzantine and Venetian architecture. In the early afternoon we’ll depart for Nafplion, with a swim stop on the way. Here, explore the narrow streets of the old quarter at leisure. Overnight in Nafplion.

Day 7 | Thursday

NAFPLION - HYDRA - MARINA ZEA- ATHENS
A short drive inland from Nafplion is Mycenae: a cradle of Greek civilization and home to the mythological kingdom of Agamemnon. Join us for an optional tour of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Come afternoon, we set sail for small yet historical Hydra; an island that enchanted the likes of Chagall and Picasso. End the day with our signature Captain’s Farewell Dinner as we sail back to Marina Zea.

Day 8 | Friday

ATHENS - MARINA ZEAS (PIRAEUS)
Breakfast on board before disembarkation. Though this adventure has come to an end, we hope to sea you on another soon!

Day 1 | Friday

ATHENS, MARINA ZEAS (PIRAEUS) - CORINTH CANAL – KEFALONIA
Your journey kicks off at Marina Zea in Athens, boarding the M/Y Harmony G. between 2-3 pm. Set the tone with a warm welcome, refreshing drink, and a sumptuous Welcome Dinner. As the ship gracefully sails through the Corinth Canal towards Kefalonia, embrace the anticipation of the adventure ahead. Overnight at sea.

Day 2 | Saturday

SAMI - KEFALONIA
Wake up to the tranquility of a beautiful beach on Kefalonia's coast. Enjoy a morning swim, followed by a lunch onboard. Explore Sami, the backdrop for "Captain Corelli’s Mandolin," or opt for an excursion to Mellisani Cave, Karavomilos Lake, or the Drogarati cave. Choose your dinner experience. Early morning, sail to Antipaxos.

Day 3 | Sunday

ANTIPAXOS - PAXOS ISLANDS
Discover the natural beauty of Paxos. Swim at Antipaxos' stunning beach and indulge in an onboard BBQ. Sail to Gaios, the main town of Paxoi, for a charming evening exploring local cuisine and nightlife. After midnight, set sail for Corfu.

Day 4 | Monday

CORFU ISLAND
Explore Corfu's Old Town, a tapestry of narrow streets reflecting its rich history. Enjoy a full day at your leisure or join our optional morning excursion. Greek Night celebration on board. After midnight, sail to Meganisi and Ithaca.

Day 5 | Tuesday

ITHACA - VATHI
Wake up to the tranquility of Meganisi for a refreshing swim or a leisurely breakfast. After a Greek BBQ lunch, sail to Vathi, Ithaca's capital. Stroll along the waterfront and choose a taverna for dinner. Overnight in Vathi.

Day 6 | Wednesday

ITHACA - MESSOLONGHI
Early departure to Messolonghi with a swim stop en route. After lunch, explore Messolonghi's lagoon and charming old town. Enjoy dinner in a local taverna. Late evening, sail to the Corinth Canal.

Day 7 | Thursday

CORINTH CANAL – ANGISTRI - AEGINA
Pass through the Corinth Canal in the morning. Reach Agistri for a final swim. Lunch onboard, then explore Aegina or join an optional excursion. Captain's Farewell Dinner before heading back to Marina Zeas.

Day 8 | Friday

ATHENS - MARINA ZEAS (PIRAEUS)
Your final day begins with breakfast and Disembarkation at 8:30 am. Disembarkation is not goodbye but a "see you later." Cherish newfound friendships as you bid farewell, hoping for a reunion on future cruises. Until then, safe travels and may the seas call you back soon.

Day 1 | Wednesday

BAIE ST. ANNE, PRASLIN - FELICITE - LA DIGUE
Today is all about going where the wind takes us - figuratively and literally! After an optional tour to Vallee de Mai, the green heart of Praslin often described as a Garden of Eden, we’ll set off for Felicite or Grand Soeur. Wherever we end up, we guarantee you fun in the beautiful Seychelles sun. Evening sail to La Digue where we’ll anchor for the night.

Day 2 | Thursday

LA DIGUE - MOYENNE ISLAND
Join us for an optional morning excursion where our knowledgeable guides will take you to L’Union Estate Farm for a tour of a coconut oil mill. Spend the early afternoon souvenir shopping at La Passe, or idle the time away at Anse Source D’Argent beach. This is another beach well-known for being one of the world’s most beautiful. What can we say, the Seychelles will spoil you. Late afternoon sail to Moyenne Island, overnight at anchor.

Day 3 | Friday

MOYENNE ISLAND - MAHE - INTER ISLAND QUAY
Your last day with us in the Seychelles is equal parts food and swimming. Dive into those sparkling waters for one last time at Moyenne before enjoying a barbecue on deck. Late afternoon we’ll head back to where it all began - Mahe - for our signature Captain’s Farewell dinner with live music. Dancing isn’t required, but very much smiled upon. Overnight in Mahe.

Day 4 | Saturday

MAHE/VICTORIA (INTER ISLAND QUAY)
Mahe, Victoria (9AM)
Get ready to disembark, but first enjoy a breakfast on board. We never like saying goodbye, so instead let us say we hope to sea you soon!

Day 1 | Friday

ATHENS, MARINA ZEAS (PIRAEUS) – NAFPLION
Welcome on board. Meet your fellow explorers and enjoy a welcome drink together before we sail back in time, into Greece’s fascinating past. First we’re heading for Nafplion, the first capital of modern Greece. Known for forts, fortresses and castles, it’s also one of the most beautiful cities in the Peloponnese. Dinner on board and overnight in port.

Day 2 | Saturday

NAFPLION - ANCIENT EPIDAURUS
We leave our ship early in the morning to drive to Ancient Epidaurus for our optional excursion. Epidaurus was known throughout the Greek world as a healing sanctuary and it is reputed for its theater, which is once again in use today and is still marvelled for its exceptional acoustics from the stage to any of its 15,000 seats. Lunch onboard and afternoon at leisure to discover the greater Nafplion area. Overnight in port.

Day 3 | Sunday

NAFPLION (FOR MYCENAE) - MONEMVASIA
Today, we will drive through the colorful city and the beautiful countryside of Argolis towards another major centre of Greek civilization, Mycenae, for an optional excursion. Visit the remains of the glorious ancient city including the Lion’s Gate, the Cyclopean walls, the Palace, the Agamemnon Tomb and the museum following by a short guided walk in the historical center of Nafplion. Lunch on board and sailing towards Monemvasia. Early evening arrival and time at leisure for exploring this remarkable medieval fortified town and birthplace of one of the most important greek poets, Giannis Ritsos, who enjoyed international reputation and radiation. Overnight at sea to Gythion.

Day 4 | Monday

GYTHION
Morning arrival in Gythion, the ancient naval base of Spartans. Optional excursion to Mani peninsula and Cape Tenaro, plus the spectacular Dirou Caves with their stalactites and stalagmites. Leaving Gythion we will cross the scenic Mani Peninsula to reach Diros and visit the spectacular cave, the entrance of which remained sealed for about 4.500 years until being discovered around the 60s. After visiting the cave, we will drive to nearby Areopolis for a short stroll through the town. Mani, which is at the tip of the Peloponnese, is a distinctive area and desolate region of underground lakes and rivers, windswept landscapes and towers, which keeps the spirit of the warriors once lived and fought here alive. Dinner onboard and late evening sailing to Pylos. Overnight at sea.

Day 5 | Tuesday

PYLOS
Morning arrival in Pylos, a picture-perfect seaside town of the SW Peloponnese. Sitting on the backside of stately Navarino Bay, Pylos was site of several famous naval battles, one of which, occurred in 1827, led to the independence of Greece, in 1829. Today, our optional excursion takes us by bus along the coast of Western Peloponnese crossing the Messenian countryside between Methoni and Koroni. First stop in Methoni which is a charmingly picturesque little town with the imposing Medieval Castle being the central attraction. Next destination is Koroni, once a Venetian naval fortress. This delightful town, clustered on a hillside, has narrow, cobbled streets and stairways leading up to a Venetian castle protected the waterways. Visiting the old town in the Castle we will discover little gems of architecture being well preserved. Sip your refreshment at the colorful port and enjoy some free time before we return to the ship for lunch. Late night sailing to Katakolon. Overnight at sea.

Day 6 | Wednesday

KATAKOLON FOR OLYMPIA
Early morning arrival in port of Katakolon, in Pyrgos, which in ancient times was the natural harbour for Ancient Olympia and in the Middle Ages was the site of the so called ''Pontikokastro'', or ''Beauvoir'' or ''Bel Vedere'' Castle. Katakolon is also known for being the birthplace of Yiannis Latsis, the Greek shipping multi-billionaire tycoon, who's paternal home operates today as Museum of Ancient Greek Technology as well as its historical lighthouse. Today, our optional excursion takes us by bus to Olympia, one of the most famous and important sites in the ancient world. Olympia is revered as the birthplace of the Olympic Games and the greatest Pan-Hellenic sanctuary for the worship of Zeus. The most thrilling site at Olympia is the very stadium, which looks much like it did more than 2,000 years ago. Explore the Temple of Hera, the magnificent temple of Zeus, the Philippeion, built to honour the family of Alexander the Great, and the Leonidion, lodging place for the athletes. We later visit the Olympia Museum, one of the most beautiful museums in the world, hosting many astonishing exhibits. Traditional lunch in the town of Olympia and optional visit to the museum of the History of the Olympic Games of Antiquity (provided it is open in the afternoon). Time at leisure and depart for Itea in the Gulf of Corinth. Overnight at sea.

Day 7 | Thursday

ITEA FOR DELPHI - CORINTH - MARINA ZEAS (ATHENS)
Morning arrival in Itea, the second largest city of the Municipality of Delphi. Proceeding to Delphi for our optional excursion, we will pass by the Corinth Canal. Unlike other archaeological sites in Greece, Delphi is built on the side of a mountain and the panoramic views are truly inspiring. Delphi was revered for hosting the most important oracle in the classical world and visitors from across the Greek world travelled here to consult with the oracle. We will walk around the ruins complex including the Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia, the Castalian Spring and the Gymnasium and visit the adjoining museum. Return to the ship for lunch and afternoon sailing. Later in the evening Captain’s Farewell Dinner and arrival in Corinth. Due to its rich ancient history as well as to the presence of St. Paul the Apostle in the city, some locations all over the world have been named Corinth. Overnight in port.

Day 8 | Friday

CORINTH - ATHENS - MARINA ZEAS (PIRAEUS)
Disembarkation at 7:00 am after breakfast. Bus transfer to ATH airport (for guests flying up to 12:00 noon) and to the center of Athens -exact place t.b.a. (for guests with post cruise arrangements). Bus transfer service is included in the cruise fares.

Day 1 | Saturday

MAHE/VICTORIA (INTER ISLAND QUAY) - ST. ANNE
Welcome to the Seychelles, the Variety way. This natural paradise will be your home for the next few days: expect cultural immersion, uninhabited islands, and unique biospheres. But first, enjoy a welcome drink before we set sail for our first stop, Sainte Anne. We know you’ve been waiting to dive into the inviting Indian Ocean: this is your first chance of many. Dinner on board and overnight at anchor.

Day 2 | Sunday

ST. ANNE - CURIEUSE
An early departure means we’ll be at the uninhabited island of Curieuse ready for a day of excursions: guided walking tours, mangrove forest exploration, giant tortoise spotting, and more. Welcome in the afternoon with a beach barbecue and snorkelling opportunities or, with beaches this beautiful, you may prefer to simply lie back and soak it all in. We wouldn’t blame you. Overnight at anchor.

Day 3 | Monday

CURIEUSE - COUSIN ISLAND - ANSE LAZIO
From Curieuse to Anse Lazio. But first a visit to Cousin Island: the entire island has been a nature reserve since 1968. We’ll visit the bird sanctuary before sailing onwards to Anse Lazio in Praslin - globally recognised as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Here, the time is yours; enjoy swimming, snorkelling, sunbathing or napping, before heading back to the ship. Overnight at anchor.

Day 4 | Tuesday

ANSE LAZIO - ARIDE - ST. PIERRE - BAIE ST. ANNE/PRASLIN
Experience a wake up call like no other: experienced island rangers will take you on an early-morning guided tour to the top of the island for a one-in-a-million vantage point. Be sure to bring your camera. Aride is famous for numerous indiginous species; your guide will point these out as you traverse the unique landscape. At noon we sail to St. Pierre Island for 3 hours of snorkelling and swimming. Dry off, and enjoy a sunset sail to Baie Sainte Anne, Praslin, in time for a cultural Creole Night. Overnight at dock. *Aride island often closed by local authorities during Southeast Trade winds (from May to September as a guideline). It may also close at short notice during strong winds. During this time, weather permitting, Variety Cruises Captain will be calling at equally beautiful locales, visiting Cote D’Or or Anse Georgette.

Day 5 | Wednesday

BAIE ST. ANNE, PRASLIN - FELICITE - LA DIGUE
Today is all about going where the wind takes us - figuratively and literally! After an optional tour to Vallee de Mai, the green heart of Praslin often described as a Garden of Eden, we’ll set off for Felicite or Grand Soeur. Wherever we end up, we guarantee you fun in the beautiful Seychelles sun. Evening sail to La Digue where we’ll anchor for the night.

Day 6 | Thursday

LA DIGUE - MOYENNE ISLAND
Join us for an optional morning excursion where our knowledgeable guides will take you to L’Union Estate Farm for a tour of a coconut oil mill. Spend the early afternoon souvenir shopping at La Passe, or idle the time away at Anse Source D’Argent beach. This is another beach well-known for being one of the world’s most beautiful. What can we say, the Seychelles will spoil you. Late afternoon sail to Moyenne Island, overnight at anchor.

Day 7 | Friday

MOYENNE ISLAND - MAHE - INTER ISLAND QUAY
Your last day with us in the Seychelles is equal parts food and swimming. Dive into those sparkling waters for one last time at Moyenne before enjoying a barbecue on deck. Late afternoon we’ll head back to where it all began - Mahe - for our signature Captain’s Farewell dinner with live music. Dancing isn’t required, but very much smiled upon. Overnight in Mahe.

Day 8 | Saturday

MAHE/VICTORIA (INTER ISLAND QUAY)
Mahe, Victoria (9AM)
Get ready to disembark, but first enjoy a breakfast on board. We never like saying goodbye, so instead let us say we hope to sea you soon!

Day 1

Athens,Piraeus(Greece), Depart 16:00
Your fascinating 7-night Steps of St Paul journey begins in the magical city of Athens. The Greek capital is one of the oldest cities in the world and home to the iconic landmark of the Acropolis. Take your time to discover the heritage, history and culture that is firmly embedded in the heart of this captivating modern metropolis before joining us onboard as we head for Thessaloniki.

Day 2

Thessaloniki(Greece), Depart 20:00
Following the path of St Paul’s Second Missionary in Europe, leads you beyond the imposing Byzantine walls that guard the sophisticated port city of Thessaloniki. The beguiling architecture and meandering cobblestone streets are a pleasure to explore, topped only by the captivating site of the biblical city Berroia, known today as Veria. Join your expert guide to hear all about St. Paul’s tribulations as he tried to win over the noble Jews that lived here.

Day 3

Kavala(Greece), Depart 16:00
The seaport resort of Kavala perched on the slopes of Mt Symvolo offers spectacular panoramic views. It was here that St Paul baptised the first Greek and European Christian convert, Lydia, and gave his first sermon. Visit the open-air baptistery, the monument that honours the Saint and the prison ruins where he was held captive with St Silas or join our specialist guide for a fascinating excursion to Neapolis and Philippi.

Day 4

Istanbul(Turkey), Depart 20:00
The vibrant city of Istanbul straddles the continents of Europe and Asia via the Bosphorus Strait. Here you can visit the lavish Byzantine and Imperial mosques which pierce Istanbul’s skyline with their towering minarets. The iconic Sultanahmet (blue) mosque, the Romanesque Hippodrome, Topkapi Palace and the world-famous Church of Hagia Sophia are just a few of the enigmatic attractions to admire.

Day 5

Dikili(Greece), Depart 20:00
Snaking its way along the beautiful coastline of Turkey’s seafront city of Dikili is a lush landscape of green forestry and expansive golden sands. Sparkling crystalline turquoise waters complete the captivating scenery. Here you have the opportunity to visit the Ancient Pergamon and the ancient Acropolis. The remains of the healing temple of Asklepion is the final stop of the day.

Day 6

Kusadasi(Turkey), Depart 23:30
In Turkey's picturesque seaside resort of Kusadasi, St Paul wrote a letter to the Ephesians and preached at the Great Theatre of Ephesus. The second-largest city of the Roman Empire is also the home of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World – the Temple of Artemis. You will learn about this and more on our tour to ancient Ephesus and the city of Miletus.

Day 7

Patmos(Greece), Depart 18:30
Patmos is the smallest of the Greek Dodecanese islands and also its most spiritual. The tranquil island is famously known for being the location where John the Apostle experienced the vision that inspired the Book of Revelations. The last remaining disciple was banished to Patmos by Rome. Follow in the footsteps of pilgrims to St John’s Monastery and the Holy Grotto of the Apocalypse.

Day 8

Athens,Piraeus(Greece), Arrive 07:00
We arrive back in the Greek capital of Athens early, giving the entire day to do as you please in the beating heart of Greece. However, you don’t have to leave us just yet. Our expert guides are waiting to escort you on a mesmerising trip to either the ancient Corinth and Bema of St. Paul or show you the highlights of the ancient Acropolis.

Day 1 | Friday

ATHENS, MARINA ZEAS (PIRAEUS) - CAPE SOUNION
Athens (2pm - 3pm) - Cape Sounion All aboard! Our exploration begins as we head from Athens to Cape Sounion. As the sun sets on our first day of adventure, enjoy an al fresco, get-to-know-each-other dinner under the ancient Greek Temple of Poseidon, Cape Sounion. As night falls, we start our sail to Ikaria. Overnight at sea.

Day 2 | Saturday

IKARIA
Wake up in paradise: aka Seychelles Beach, Ikaria. Surrounded by craggy rocks, the beach is best accessed by boat (luckily you’ve chosen to cruise with Variety!) Enjoy your first of many swim stops before we sail onwards to Ikaria’s quaint port. Hike the wildlife, take a dip in thermal spas, join a family cooking class, or visit an ancient village. You’ll soon realise this is an island like no other. Fun fact: locals here live an average of 10 years longer than elsewhere in Greece. Overnight in Ikaria.

Day 3 | Sunday

PATMOS - LIPSI
Today we’ll voyage from Ikaria to Patmos to Lipsi. Patmos is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites and is often considered divine. As we sail onwards to Lipsi, enjoy lunch al fresco before diving into the glittering sea. We also invite you to join our on board tasting of Lipsi’s famous wine, Aposperiti. This elusive bottle is produced only on the island. You can thank your lucky grapes - and us! - later. Evening at leisure, overnight in Lipsi.

Day 4 | Monday

KALYMNOS
Early morning sail to Kalymnos, but not without a swim stop on our way. Simple, authentic and packed to the shores with hiking routes, Kalymnos is a utopia for modern adventurers. It’s also home to the famous Greek sponge divers. Join us to meet the locals who harvest them, and learn all about the process from reef to market. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure; relax with a coffee, hike one of the famous island trails or - and we recommend this one - visit the stunning Esperidon fjord. Overnight in Kalymnos.

Day 5 | Tuesday

LEVITHA - AMORGOS
From the Dodacanese to the Cyclades. Destination Amorgos, with a stop at Levitha island. The grand total of people living on Levitha is four. Yes, you read that right. The dedicated family raise animals and run a restaurant for visiting yachts - dine on their freshly-grilled fish. Trust us, you won’t regret it. In the afternoon, we sail onwards to Amorgo where Luc Besson’s movie, Big Blue, was shot. The island will transport you to the past with its authentic, laid-back villages. Evening at leisure in the mediaeval capital, overnight in Amorgos.

Day 6 | Wednesday

AMORGOS - KOUFONISSIA - IRAKLIA
Before we set sail today, we’ll stop at Panagia Chozoviotissa - a monastery carved into the dramatic sea-facing cliffs and bursting with significant ancient heirlooms. Then on to Koufonisia, a playground for water-lovers packed with caves and rock pools accessible only by boat. Jump off deck and snorkel, kayak or paddle board to explore them. Our afternoon cruise passes scenic Schinoussa to reach the tiny island of Iraklia, protected by Natura 2000 and offering incredible mountainous footpaths. Take a walk along them for awe-inspiring views. Enjoy laid-back Greek island life at leisure this evening. Overnight in port.

Day 7 | Thursday

SERIFOS
It’s the penultimate day, but it’s one to remember. We’ll sail to Serifos and start with a swim at a remote beach. Refuel with a barbecue on board then on to Chora, the island’s castle-village. Sit back at a cafe, indulge in souvenir shopping at the boutique stores, join us at a winery, or show off your creative side at the island’s pottery studio. We’ll enjoy a special dinner this evening: a chance to remember and reminisce about the hidden gems of Greece. Midnight sail back to Athens.

Day 8 | Friday

ATHENS - MARINA ZEAS (PIRAEUS)
Athens, Greece (8.30-9am) Breakfast, disembarkation, and a chance to swap contact details with your fellow explorers, who we’re sure have become friends. With new islands explored, where to next? Find all our cruise itineraries here, and we hope to sea you on board again soon!