Join us for our inaugural Bavaria & Beyond Cruise, an unforgettable extension of our mainland Greece tour, as we sail through the breathtaking Greek islands. This 5-night optional add-on begins with a roundtrip cruise from Athens, starting with a visit to Kusadasi, where you’ll explore the ancient ruins of Ephesus. Next, we sail to Patmos and its sacred Monastery of St. John, followed by the medieval charm of Rhodes. In Crete, discover the legendary Palace of Knossos, before arriving in Santorini, renowned for its iconic caldera views and sunsets. The journey concludes back in Athens, perfectly blending history, culture, and stunning landscapes.

Highlights: Iconic Aegean Sea Cruise, Sea View Cabins, Mykonos, Kusadasi & Ephesus, Patmos, Rhodes, Kreta, and Santorini with optional excursions.

Overnights:  On Board the Celestyal Discovery (4 nights) - Attica Riviera Waterfront (1 nights)

Price: €1,795/person* - based off a double occupancy room

Day 1 - Arrival Day and Welcome Reception - Monday, May 5th

From Athens, we make our way south to the port of Lavrion where we set-sail in the afternoon. A few hours into our cruise, we arrive in the historic town of Mykonos, also known as Chora. Here, guests have tim to explore the lovely colourful beach of Kalafatis, traditional village of Ano Mera, and the monastery of Panagia Tourliani, founded in 1542. The delightful village square of Ano Mera is another great destination and the perfect spot for a short break relaxing in one of the island’s oldest communities. Our evening concludes as we set sail for an overnight transfer to Kusadasi, Turkey.

Optional Excursions (Available Upon Boarding) - Mykonian Countryside Tour with Chora and Little Venice - Mykonian Dinner

Overnight: Celestyal Discovery

Day 2 - Kusadasi, Turkey, Ephesus, and Patmos - Tuesday, May 6th

Today, we explore the wonders of Ephesus, the fourth of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, located in modern-day Turkey. Once a thriving Ancient Greek city on the coast of Ionia, Ephesus is renowned for the Temple of Artemis, completed around 550 BC, which featured over 100 towering marble pillars and earned the city the name ‘Servant of the Goddess.’ Although only a single pillar remains from this magnificent structure, Ephesus boasts many other remarkable sites, including the Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre, and Hadrian’s Temple. It is also significant in Christianity, as it is believed that the Virgin Mary spent her final years here, a recognition formalized by the Vatican in 1957, with three Popes visiting since. Additionally, the apostle Paul lived and preached extensively in Ephesus, writing his Letter to the Corinthians. As one of the largest and most inspiring open-air archaeological museums in the world, this excursion promises unforgettable experiences. In the afternoon, our journey brings us to Patmos and Chora, a picturesque village characterized by whitewashed buildings, narrow cobblestone streets, and stunning views of the Aegean Sea. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its well-preserved medieval architecture.

Group Excursion Included: House of Virgin Mary & Ephesus

Overnight: Celestyal Discovery

Day 3 - Rhodas - Wednesday, May 7th

Interstinly enough, a highlight of Rhodes is actually a sight that can no longer be seen: the Colossus of Rhodes, once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, which was destroyed by an earthquake. As you explore this historic island, imagine the statue of the Greek sun-god Helios standing 100 feet tall in 280 BC, celebrating Rhodes’ victory over Cyprus. The largest of the Dodecanese islands, Rhodes is rich in history, with remnants from the Knights of St. John during the Crusades. During a full day stop, guests have the opporunity to visit Lindos, Rhodes Town, home to the impressive Acropolis of Lindos and the 300 BC Doric Temple of Athena. The charming Church of the Virgin Mary, Knights’ Quarter, and the imposing Palace of the Grand Master, a medieval castle and one of Greece’s few Gothic structures, built on a site believed to have once supported the Colossus.

Optional Excursions (Available Upon Boarding) - Acropolis of Lindos and the Citadel of the Knights - Philerimos Church and the Palace of the Knights - Walking tour in the Medieval City of Rhodes

Overnight: Celestyal Discovery

Day 4 - Kreta (Heraklion) & Santorini - Thursday, May 8th

The ancient Cretan city of Heraklion becons to be exlored. During our visit, take in views of the stunning waterfron or explore the Cretan countryside. Maybe even include a visit to Knossos museum and learn about Europe’s first civilazation or explore the 16th-centruy walls of Koules Fortress. In the afternoon, we visit Santorini with its soaring landscapes and whitewashed houses its regularly described as one of the most beautiful places on the planet. One of the greatest spectacles is Oia village, perched on the rim of the Caldera, the remains of a volcanic eruption.

Optional Excursions (Available Upon Boarding)

Kreta (Herakliton) - Minoan Palace of KNossos - 1st European Civilisation - Experience the Cretan Countryside and Liferstyle - Venetian Heraklion and the Unique Archaeological Museum

Santorini - Spectacular Oia Village Perched on the Caldera Rim - Cruise to Santorini’s Islands and Volcanoes - Akrotiri Village Excavations

Overnight: Celestyal Discovery

Day 5 - End of Cruise & Athens Riviera - Friday, May 9th

As our memorable cruise draws to a close, we return to the picturesque port of Lavrion, After disembarking, we embark on a scenic drive along the stunning coastline, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean and the charming villages that dot the landscape. Upon arrival at our waterfront accommodations on the Athens Riviera, takesome time to relax and reflect during a single night stay at this luxurious destination. Enjoy private waterfront rooms overlooking the shimmering sea, unwind by the pool, or take a leisurely stroll along the beach. The evening presents one last opportunity to watch the sun set over the Greek horizon before our journey concludes the next morning.

Overnight: Dolce Attica Riviera

Day 6 - Airport Transfer - Saturday, May 10th

Soak in the scenic sunrise over the Athens Rivera before embarking on a short 15 minute transfer to the Athens International Airport. Here, you return journey home begins following what is sure to be a wonderful vacation with memories to last a lifetime.