19-night Mediterranean & Greek Islands Cruise

London is known worldwide as an entertainment capital, a center for the arts, a center of rich and varied heritage, a 'green' city, and waterfront attraction center. The city is alive with theaters, clubs, pubs, casinos and entertainment venues, making it a day or night out to remember. Southampton is the main regional centre for the arts, offering quality, variety and choice. Southampton has a rich and varied heritage, five excellent museums covering all aspects of the city's past and the remains of the medieval town walls. Southampton's rich heritage of parks and open spaces make it probably 'the Greenest City in the UK'. Whether it's shopping, eating out or taking in great events, there's always something to see and do on the attractive waterfront.

Destination Guide

Cadiz is an old city with Andalusian character. The magnificent Baroque cathedral and impressive mansions were built with gold. Cadiz’s modern-day treasure lies 30 minutes to the north in the rolling hills of Jerez - where production of the liquid gold, as the famous sherry is often called, ensures a booming economy. Visit one of the bodegas for a tour and tasting. The Historic City Center of Old Cadiz is a pedestrian zone for a pleasant stroll. The monument to "Las Cortes" is the Spanish Parliament established in Plaza de España. The 18th-century golden-domed Cathedral of Santa Cruz looms over the whitewashed houses. The dazzling interior contains a magnificent collection of sculptures and art objects. The Museum of History features an outstanding model of Cadiz in ivory and mahogany that illustrates what the town looked like at the end of the 18th century. The small, colorful Flower Market offers much local flavor. The Moorish-style Alameda Apodaca Gardens serve as a reminder of the Moors’ occupation in past centuries.

Destination Guide

Santorini is everything that has made the Greek islands legendary. The world famous island of Santorini is the southern most island of the Cycladic group in the Aegean Sea, and is located north of Crete. Its population is distributed among thirteen villages and just exceeds nine thousand. The marvelous dry climate and unbroken sunshine create year around conditions which are perfect for observation, photographs and videos under an extraordinary variety of natural lights and colors.

Destination Guide

Excursions

Santorini Island Tour - Half Day Tour approx 4 hours — Optional Private Excursions

You will be met by your English-speaking guide upon disembarkation from the ship, at the bottom of the cable car at the Old Port of Fira. Our lovely tour starts with a scenic drive through the plains of Santorini to picturesque Oia, the crowning glory of peace and tranquility. 

Built on the northern part of the caldera rim, it is here where many artists have been inspired due to its magnificent location with its most superb views of the caldera, the rest of the island and the Aegean Sea.. We then stop at one of the famous wineries to enjoy a wine tasting tour of the fine wines produced on the island. Our final stop is Fira, the islands capital town.

The island used to be circular, but a massive volcanic explosion around 3,500 years ago blew out the centre of the island. (Many people attribute the decline of Minoan civilization on Crete to this cataclysmic eruption. High cliffs jutting into the sea are all that's left of the crater rim.

The surrounding islands are the remains of the sides of the crater, and the sea has filled in the gaps, forming a beautiful bay. Sunsets on the island are particularly striking; all the restaurants and bars in Fira face west over the sunken volcano and the Aegean Sea.

Santorini Wine Roads Tour (Private) - 5 hours — Optional Private Excursions
Highlights/Description:

You will be met in Fira town (top of the cable car) by your Expert Sommelier and seated on a luxury air conditioned coach, where you will travel around the Island visiting three Family Estate Wineries under the continual guidance of your Sommelier. Each Winery is unique in architectural design and you will get to taste fifteen different styles of wine. Our Sommelier will initiate you into the magical artistic process from the grape to the bottle, providing all the knowledge you need whilst enjoying a series of awarded white and upcoming red wines as some of the prestigious signature dessert wines Vinsanto. You will also get a chance to take in the scenery whilst stopping off a Vineyard to see the unique cultivation technique of "Kouloura" and the specificity of soil & microclimate. It is a journey among the paths of ancient vineyards, simplicity traditional family run wineries, modern wine making techniques and most important…the Awakening of the senses whilst tasting The Finest Theraic Wines, returning, having a memorable & most enjoyable experience.
 
Tour Duration: 5 Hours
Tour can operate: Morning or Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Light

Inclusions:

• English-speaking Sommelier guide
• Entrance fees
• Applicable taxes
• Transfers to/from Fira town

Not Included:

• Meals, unless otherwise noted
• Cable car tickets (5 EUR pp) from old Port into Fira town
• Gratuities
• Personal expenses

Santorini Island Discovery - 5 hours — Optional Private Excursions
Highlights/Description:
Begin in the village of Mesa Gonia where you will visit one of the islands greatest treasures; the little Panagia Episkopi Church built in 1115 AD, during the Byzantine period and housing one of the three most priceless icons in the world. You will then be whisked up the hill to one of the more traditional villages, Pyrgos, which also boasts the ruins of a Medieval Venetian castle. The village is overlooked solely by the Mount Profitis Ilias and as one of the highest points of Santorini, offers a fantastic view of the crescent shaped island.  Next we are off to a wine tasting at a family owned wine estate in Megalochori, where you have the opportunity to learn a little about and sip on some of the famous wines of Santorini. The Grand Finale of our tour sees you entering the gates of the ancient site of Akrotiri, also known as the "Minoan Pompeii" which was destroyed and covered by the ashes of an enormous volcanic eruption in 1450BC. The settlement contained sophisticated multi-story buildings and magnificent fresco paintings signifying the just how advanced the Minoans were at that stage. After this exhilarating experience our guide will bring you safely back to your hotel to enjoy the rest of your stay on Santorini.

Tour Duration: 5 Hours
 Tour can operate: Morning or Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate

Inclusions:

• Licensed, English-speaking guide

Not Included:

• Gratuities
• Personal expenses

Santorini: Santorini Highlights - 4 hours — Optional Private Excursions
Meet your local guide and driver as you disembark your ship this morning for a half day exploring Santorini. Drive to Fira, where you will visit the Archaeological Museum which exhibits many items from excavations across the island such as vases from the 5th century BC and items from the Minoan age. After a short stroll in Fira, you may like to drive north to Oia, the most picturesque little town of the island, with white-washed houses, windmills and caves, perched on the very edge of the cliff.

A visit to Domain Sigalas or Boutari Wines will convince you that this small island, with some the oldest vineyards in the world, produces truly unique white wines. Or if you are an art lover you may like to visit the unique experience that is the Art Space, an art gallery set within caves of pumice rock. These carved chambers are those of a century old winery that is still in production now. The old winery production machines can be viewed alongside contemporary art from around the globe followed by a tasting of the wine produced there if you wish.

Highlights:

• Drive to Fira to visit the Archaeological Museum before heading to Oia, the most picturesque little town on the island
• Try some of the white wine produced on the island from some of the oldest vineyards in the world

Tour Duration: 4 hours

Tour can Operate: Morning / Afternoon

Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information

Physical Activity Level: Light

Inclusions:
•    Private transport by luxury car or minivan
•    An expert local guide for 4 hours
•    Entrance fees to all sights and museums
•    All taxes

Exclusions:
•    All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
•    Gratuities

Santorini's ancient Akrotiri excavation & Oia Tour approx 4 hours — Optional Private Excursions
Begin with a scenic drive through the plains of Santorini to the picturesque village of Oia, the crowning glory of tranquillity, boasting the most superb views of the caldera. Stroll around the narrow streets and explore its quaint boutiques of local art, paintings and semi-precious jewellery.
Continue with a visit to Akrotiri and marvel at the “Minoan" excavations that have revealed complexes of multi-level buildings, streets and squares, with remains of walls standing as high as 8 meters, all entombed in the solidified ash of the famous eruption of Thera.
Our final stop is to Fira, the capital, perched on the edge of an impressive cliff 260m high, where you will have free time to explore on your own. Many of its beautiful buildings blue domed churches and sun-bathed veranda were constructed during the Venetian invasion and offer stunning views over the submerged volcano

Santorini cooking and wine tasting class approx. 4 hours — Optional Private Excursions
Today you will be closer to the genuine tastes of Santorini through a farm to table experience. You will be offered fresh vegetables and herbs as well as other precious ingredients from local farmers, so as to cook them under the guidance of an experienced chef. This is an interactive course, where each participant is offered a glass of wine from Artemis Karamolegos Winery. Afterwards, you will enjoy the fruits of your labour at the picturesque veranda of the restaurants main area while enjoying 2 more wines while the presentation of the wines is given from experienced sommeliers. Upon completion of the tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel/ship.

Megalochori village & the lost Atlantis Museum approx. 4 hours — Optional Private Excursions
Our tour begins with a visit at Megalochori village and you will walk through the traditional vineyards, the lava-stoned streets, the renovated and abandoned houses after the earthquake of 1956, and the colorful houses. Then we will continue with the Symposium experience. In ancient Greece, the symposium was a ritualized drinking event, when drinking for pleasure was accompanied by music, dancing, recitals, or conversation. Similarly, we will be accompanied by live Lyre playing, mythological and historical wine narration. Afterwards, embark on a journey in Greek History, Mythology, Philosophy and Geology! Discover all the evidence that connects Plato’s Lost Atlantis myth with the volcano eruption of the island. Follow Plato’s Journey that inspired him to write about the ideal city through an interactive fresco. View a Holographic representation of the geological evolution of Santorini Island from the prehistoric ages until today. Re-live, with all your senses, the earthquake, the tsunami, and the volcanic eruption that led to the destruction of Atlantis in a 9D experience.

Santorini Walking food tour approx. 4 hours — Optional Private Excursions
Join us on a walking tour through Fira and neighboring Firostefani for a journey through senses - breathtaking views, hidden alleyways, local eateries - all of that while exploring the secrets of Greek cuisine and filling your belly!
The tour starts in Firostefani and ends in Fira, making a minimum of 7 stops to cover different aspects of Greek and local Santorini cuisine - from Greek coffee to local delicacies, to classic mezes and delicious deserts. Greek cuisine is not imaginable without olives and olive oil, as well as wine and ouzo. We will taste all this and much more. The goal of the tour is to introduce guests to the Greek cuisine in a fun and informative manner from the local standpoint, showcasing not only the flavors & ingredients of Mediterranean cuisine, but also the beauty of Santorini as a world-famous destination.

Santorini sunset cruise approx. 5 hours — Optional Private Excursions
Enjoy sailing around the crystal-clear blue waters of Santorini. First, we will visit the Red and White beaches, both unique and named after the colour of the volcanic pebbles of which they are comprised. Next, we will sail past Akrotiri and into the Caldera. Sail close the volcanic island of Thirassia is the Hot Springs, where you will enjoy swimming and a spa-like mud bath in the warm waters. We continue to Palea Kameni island for some time for swimming and snorkelling. A delicious barbeque dinner will be prepared and served on board while the magical sunset appears on the horizon.

Santorini caldera hiking trail OIa to Fira approx. 4 hours — Optional Private Excursions
This is the most scenic hike on the island of Santorini, starting from the capital city of the island, Fira, you will be led to Oia walking through the villages of Firostefani and Imerovigli. The greater part of the path is on the rim of the Caldera. Following this path affords a gorgeous view to the famous volcano and the Aegean Sea and also allows visitors to see the four most important villages of the island.

Greek Food & Wine Tasting - Santorini - 5 hours — Optional Private Excursions
Experience the culinary delights of Santorini through a Greek Food & Wine Tasting Tour. Explore two renowned wineries and indulge in a delectable 3-course Greek meze-style menu at a charming traditional restaurant, savoring the flavors of local cuisine and wines. This comprehensive tour offers insights into Santorini's rich food and wine culture, along with valuable tips on Greek gastronomy. Perfect for food enthusiasts, wine connoisseurs, adventurous souls, and anyone seeking an immersive gastronomic journey in Santorini.
 

Mykonos's many captivating attributes make it one of the most celebrated Greek holiday islands. Its main village is a colorful maze of narrow streets lined with white-washed houses, many with bright blue doors and shutters. As an attractive backdrop, famous windmills are lined up like toy soldiers on the hillside, vestiges of a time when wind power was used to grind grain. Mykonos has churches and chapels scattered about the island; quite a number of them are located right in town. Radiant flowers spill over white-washed walls and shady courtyards. In addition to swimming, sunning, water-skiing and surfing, visitors find endless shopping opportunities. Artists have relied on Mykonos' beautiful setting to inspire them. The most photographed site is the Paraportiani, a cluster of white-washed churches resting below windmills. Mykonos's museums include an Archaeological Museum, which houses relics from the Trojan War, a Folk Art Museum and a Maritime Museum. The best beaches are Aghios Stephanos, Psarou, Kalafatis, Onros, Panormos and Elia.

Destination Guide

Excursions

Mykonos Island Tour - Half Day Tour — Optional Private Excursions

Guests will be met by our English speaking guide to commence the tour. Upon completion of the tour, transfer will be provided back to the ship.

During this tour you will see and visit the most interesting places of the island. First destination is the beach of Saint Ioannis with the picturesque little church. At this quaint little church you will be able to see the interior of a typical Greek Church (more than four hundred on the island).

Following the route past Ornos beach, San Stefano beach, and Tourlos harbour continuing to the distant beaches of Kalafatis and Santa Anna. Later on you will have the opportunity to visit the village of Ano Mera, which is well known for the monastery Panagia Tourliani and the typical little square surrounded by traditional Greek taverns. After visiting the monastery and enjoying the magnificent views, we shall return to Mykonos town.

Starting from the Yacht club at old port you will stroll around the narrow alleys of Mykonos, visiting Manto Mavrogenous square, the unique church of Parapaportiani, the lovely Little Venice, the magnificent Windmills. The numerous souvenir shops, the cafes at the waterfront were you can see the pelicans being fed from people, create a unique atmosphere that no one can forget. Colours such as blue and white remind that the island has remained untouched throughout the years. Free time at the end is recommended.

Upon completion of the tour, you will be transferred back to the port of Mykonos.

Mykonos: Stunning Mykonos - 4 hours — Optional Private Excursions
Mykonos town is best known for its whitewashed buildings and today you have an introductory tour through its labyrinth of cobbled streets. Meet your driver and guide at the port before seeing the iconic windmills and the area known as Little Venice, where coloured balconies adorn the white facades and hang above the lapping waves. If of interest, you may like to visit the Maritime Museum, which exhibits ship models from the early Minoan period until the 20th century. Alternatively, you could explore the many jewellery shops and boutiques. Finish your tour with a visit to a traditional local bakery before your private transfer back to your cruise ship.

Highlights:

• Explore the whitewashed houses and  beaches of Mykonos and discover seafaring heritage dating back to pre-Minoan times at the Maritime Museum
• Admire the island's iconic windmills and taste the delicacies at a local bakery

Tour Duration: 4 hours

Tour Can Operate: Morning/Afternoon

Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information

Physical Activity Level: Light

Inclusions:
•    Private transport by luxury car or minivan
•    An expert local guide for 4 hours
•    Entrance fees to all sights and museums
•    All taxes

Exclusions:
•    All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
•    Gratuities

Delos island tour approx 4 hours — Optional Private Excursions
Delos, once a Sacred Island, is the legendary birthplace of the Sun God Apollo and his twin sister Artemis.  Its religious significance coupled with a good harbour and strategic location on the Aegean trade routes enabled Delos to flourish for 500 years.   Today, the only remaining inhabitants are its treasured ruins and their caretakers. 
Visit the marbled streets of the Agora and Sacred Way, the Sanctuary of Apollo, the theatre, the Sanctuary of the Foreign Gods and the Sacred Mount Cynthus.  View the remains of a Hellenistic Quarter with its harbours, water houses and luxurious villas, including the Houses of Cleopatra, the Dolphin, the Masks and the House of Dionyssos. Marvel at the spectacular Avenue of the Lions, where five proud Naxian marble beasts from the 7th Century BC crouch, vigilant guardians of the Sacred Lake, which stands dry today. A small museum on the island displays artefacts from the site.

Tips: Wear flat, comfortable walking shoes, there is a lot of walking over cobbled paths. Carry a cold bottle of water with you on hot days, wear lots of sunscreen and preferably a hat, as there is no shade on the island
 
 Inclusions: Licensed English-speaking guide / Round trip transfers in Sedan taxi/ Deluxe A/C minibus /Round trip ferry tickets to Delos Island / Entrance fees to indicated sites /Taxes
Exclusions: Gratuities / Personal expenses /anything not mentioned above /
 

Mykonos full day cruise approx 9 hours — Optional Private Excursions
ITINERARY: South Coast of Mykonos – Dragonisi
We depart from Platys Gialos Port and sail at low speed to view the VIP beach of Psarou from a different perspective. We continue our trip towards Ornos Beach and end up at the last southwestern beach of Mykonos, known as Glyfadi. Then we speed up and sail past the famous southern beaches of Mykonos (Paranga, Paradise, Super Paradise, Agrari, Elia, KaloLivadi, Agia Anna, Kalafatis, Lia, and Fragia) and head off towards an isolated island called Dragonisi, reachable only by private yacht. There we stop off to enjoy a swim at a uniquely beautiful beach. Snorkelling gear is provided for those who are interested in exploring the beautiful underwater environment. On our way back we stop off at Agrari Beach for more swimming and snorkelling in the blue sea or water sports for the more athletic. Our trip ends at the port of Platys Gialos. One of the major advantages of this itinerary is that it is not affected by weather conditions as the yacht sails close to the coast. 
 

Included:
An 8 to 9 hours cruise at Mykonos Island/ The fuel consumption for the aforementioned itinerary (1,5 cruising hours)/ a captain/ a multilingual crew member/ a bottle of wine per 4 persons/ Water & a fruit salad/ Snorkeling equipment is provided on board,

Not Included: Lunch, return transfer from port to hotel , any services not mentioned 
 

Piraeus is the seaport for Athens, the capital of western civilization, which boasts a fantastic mix of classical ruins and vivacious modern life. Climb the hill of Acropolis to wonder at the Parthenon, join the lively Athenians in Constitution Square, and find a welcoming taverna for spirited bizouki music, plenty of ouzo to drink, and energetic Greek dancing. Piraeus is the largest harbor in the country. The white chapel of St. George at its summit has a theater bearing the same name. The hill of Nymphs is the site of a planetarium, which is located above magnificent Thesseio temple. Among all of these hills, Acropolis is the one that glorified Athens and the whole Greek world and became the symbol of the western civilization. Bays and small rocky or sandy coves dot the area and during the summer are filled with Athenians and foreigners enjoying their beauty.

Destination Guide

Excursions

Piraeus: The Ancient City of Athens - 8 Hours — Optional Private Excursions
Dominated by the remarkable Parthenon, which has stood for over 2,000 years, Athens is a city of major architectural and archaeological treasures. At Piraeus Port you will receive a warm welcome from your guide and driver who provides a captivating insight into the city’s history and culture during your full day tour.

For most, the highlight of a visit to Athens is the world famous Acropolis and the Parthenon. Dedicated to the Goddess Athena, it is one of the most important ancient monuments in the Western world. This afternoon, delight in the mesmerising display of eclectic Greek and Oriental art at the Benaki Museum. Complete your day with a drive past the Panethenaic Stadium, the pure marble masterpiece that served as the original site for the modern Olympics. At the end of the tour you are privately transferred back to your cruise ship.

Highlights:

• Ascend the Acropolis to the Parthenon, one of the most important ancient monuments in the Western world
• Tour the Benaki Museum

• Private transport by luxury car or minivan
• An expert local guide for 8 hours
• Entrance fees to all sights and museums
  All taxes

• All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
• Gratuities

Piraeus: Cape Sounion - 5 hours — Optional Private Excursions
Meet your guide as you disembark your cruise ship in Piraeus and venture along the scenic coast to Cape Sounion where you visit the ancient ruined Temple of Poseidon. This temple is believed to date from the 5th century BC and was built to honour Poseidon, who ranked second only to Athena herself in terms of power. The Temple enjoys an impressive position, high on the cliffs, and has, over the centuries, been marked by many travellers’ carved signatures, including that of Lord Byron. After touring the site, you return to your cruise ship in Piraeus.

Highlights:

• Venture along the coast to Cape Sounion to the ancient ruins of the Temple of Poseidon

Tour Duration: 5 hours

Tour can Operate: Morning/ Afternoon

Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information

Physical Activity Level: Low

Inclusions:
•    Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
•    An expert A&K local guide (5 hours)
•    Entrance fees
•    All taxes

Exclusions:
•    All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
•    Gratuities

Heraklion, the capital of Crete and its principal commercial port, is just three miles away from the fantastic ruins of the Palace of Knossos. Discovered in 1899 by Sir Arthur Evans and partially reconstructed, the elaborate Palace is believed to be the mythical Labyrinth of King Minos and the seat of ancient Minoan culture. The Archaeological Museum in Heraklion displays many of the treasures found during the excavations.

Destination Guide

Excursions

Crete: Knossos - Archanes - Heraklion Museum -5 hours — Optional Private Excursions
Guests will be met by our English speaking guide to commence the tour. Upon completion of the tour, transfer will be provided back to the ship.

We will first visit the Archaeological Museum in the town centre and then continue with the exploration of the ruins of Knossos Palace. The palace is one of the major must-see archaeological sites in Greece, presenting visitors with a rare glimpse into Minoan civilization. Accompanied by a knowledgeable, qualified archaeological guide who will offer in-depth personal attention, you will browse through the restored palace. By examining the structures the Minoans lived in, you will have the best avenue for piecing together the threads of the Great Minoan civilization. After a walk through the award winning historically restored village of Archanes, you can enjoy lunch in its picturesque main square, before returning back to the pier.

Duration: approx. 5 hours

Notes:
Because of the extensive walk in Knossos, comfortable shoes and a hat are required.

Knossos Palace and Historical Heraklion — Optional Private Excursions
Highlights/Description:

• Knossos Palace
• Heraklion

A full day tour that explores the Palace of Knossos and the nearby city of Heraklion. The palace is one of the major must-see archaeological sites in Greece, presenting visitors with a rare glimpse into Minoan civilization. Accompanied by a first class guide who will offer in-depth personal attention, you will walk around the ruins and excavations of the vast ancient palace, and learn about the Greek mythological tales that are linked to it.
 
After exploring the labyrinth of corridors and rooms on the Knossos tour, you will travel into central Heraklion for a walk around its historical center and main sites and a visit to the recently renovated Archaeological Museum. The most magnificent collection of Minoan art and culture in the world is housed in this museum, that is one of the most visited ones Greece, with an exhibition of artifacts,
covering a period of 5,000 years.
 
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate to Heavy

Inclusions:

• Licensed, English-speaking guide
• Entrance fees
• Applicable taxes
• Transfers to/from departure port 

Not Included:

• Meals, unless otherwise noted
• Gratuities
• Personal expenses

Looking for the Muses (Crete) - 5 hours — Optional Private Excursions
Highlights/Description:
 

• Visit to the oldest olive tree in the world
• Visit to 2 traditional wineries and their vineyards
• Visit to a traditional Cretan musical workshop
• Information about the unique viticulture and the indigenous grape varietals
• Two wine tasting sessions with 10 different types and styles of wines
• Visit to a Minoan farm and a Medieval wine press
• A traditional lunch in the picturesque village of Archanes
• Info booklet and wine certificate

Explore your senses enjoying a day full with ancient old flavors, sounds and sights.  Embark on an epic journey around quaint villages, amazing wineries, a musical workshop and a medieval wine press.  Pay a visit to a Minoan farm and discover the mystic way of wine making in Crete, before enjoying your lunch in a picturesque village (paid locally).
 
Tour Duration: 4-5 Hours
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Light

Inclusions:

• Licensed, English-speaking guide
• Entrance fees
• Applicable taxes
• Transfers to/from port of Heraklion

Not Included:

• Meals, unless otherwise noted

Wine Tasting and Cooking in Crete - 5 hours — Optional Private Excursions
Highlights/Description:

• Visit to a traditional winery and its vineyard
• Tour around the scenic area of Peza
• Information about the unique viticulture and the indigenous grape varietals
• A wine tasting session with 5 different types and styles of wines
• Visit to a Minoan farm and a Medieval wine press
• Hands on cooking class
• Outdoor lunch paired with wine and raki
• Info booklet, wine certificate and recipe book

 Visit one of Crete’s most renowned wineries and indulge in its fine wines. Drive through scenic roads, visit a medieval wine press and trust yourselves into the hands of a celebrated local chef. Experience a hands-on cooking class uncovering the secrets of the Cretan cuisine, and enjoy regional specialties in a traditional setting.
 
Tour Duration: 4-5 Hours
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Light

Inclusions:

• Licensed, English-speaking guide
• Entrance fees
• Applicable taxes
• Transfers to/from port of Heraklion

Not Included:

• Meals, unless otherwise noted
• Gratuities
• Personal expenses

Katakolon is a port admired for beautiful beaches. Equally important, Katakolon is the gateway to Olympia, the great Panhellenic sanctuary. The site of ancient Olympia is situated at the foot of wooded Mount Kronos in an area of gentle hills; excavations began in 1875 and are considered one of archaeology’s great achievements. A direct consequence was the revival of Olympic Games by Baron Pierre de Coubertin; the first modern games were held in Athens in 1896. Today, visitors to Olympia are overwhelmed by the impact of ancient remains and their significance. The site’s most important excavations include numerous monuments, such as Temple of Zeus in the Sacred Precinct, Treasuries, and Stadium. There is an excellent Archaeological Museum with a large collection of bronzes, pottery and sculptures unearthed during the excavations. The main reason for a visit to Katakolon is the trip to Olympia. Those guests who wish to remain in Katakolon will enjoy its unhurried atmosphere and the friendliness of the people.

Destination Guide

Excursions

Katakolan - Olympia Tour, site of the Olympic Idea - 4 hours — Optional Private Excursions
Guests will be met by our English speaking guide to commence the tour. Upon completion of the tour, transfer to the ship.

Olympia is situated in the quiet beautiful valley of the Alfios, in the territory of Pisatis. The setting, in great contrast with most Greek sites, is pastoral, green and lush. The ruins are shaded by evergreen oaks, Aleppo pines, poplars, and olive-trees. En route to Olympia, pass Pyrgos, the modern capital city of the province. Olympia was not a city, but a sacred precinct occupied exclusively by temples, dwellings for priests and officials, and public buildings in connection with the Pan-Hellenic games that were hosted there for more than a millennium. In 393 AD, the Christian Emperor Theodosius, in his crackdown of pagan festivals, closed the games and his successor had the temples destroyed. Later, the River Alfios changed its course to flow directly over the sanctuary where it remained buried under seven meters of sand and silt until the 1870s. A striking feature of the festival was the proclamation of the Ekecheiria, or Olympic Truce. Still more surprising was its almost universal observance, witness to the high prestige of the Olympic festival. Explore the archaeological site including the Stadium, the Temples of Zeus & Hera, the Ancient Wrestling House, the Altar (where the Olympic Flame of the modern times is lit), the Roman Aqueduct, the guesthouse and the workshop of the Athenian sculptor, Pheidias.

Next, visit the museum and admire the sculptures from the Temple of Zeus, the statue of Nike Peonios, and the statue of Hermes of Praxiteles. The museum also includes a rich collection of statues of the Roman emperors and objects used or dedicated by the ancient competitors.

Duration: 4 hours approx.

Notes:
• Sun protection is recommended
• Comfortable non-slip shoes for uneven cobble or marble streets/steps is recommended
• Bottle of water - recommended

As Sardinia's capital, Cagliari is both a thriving modern city and a fine example of the varied history of this Italian island. Explore the Roman amphitheater, Spanish townhouses, and Pisan watchtowers. Antiquities from the native Nuraghi culture and from the Phoenician era onward are well-displayed in the National Archaeological Museum.

Destination Guide

Gibraltar is the famous promontory located at the western entrance of the Mediterranean, with Spain to the north and, across the Straits, Morocco to the south. The Straits are a channel connecting the Atlantic with the Mediterranean. Africa is clearly visible on a fine day. In ancient times, the Rock, as Gibraltar is popularly called, and its counterpart on the African side, Mount Abyla, were known as the Pillars of Hercules. Visitors enjoy historical sites, magnificent views and beautiful beaches. A favorite pastime is strolling along Main Street to browse and shop in the duty-free shops or stop in one of the pubs. Many visitors come to see Gibraltar's curiosity, the Barbary Apes. According to legend, the British will remain as long as the apes survive. Alemeda Botanical Gardens is where the British troops mustered for their parades. Trafalgar Cemetery was named for the casualties of the Battle of Trafalgar. On the fringe of the downtown area is the Cable Car Base Station where the car runs to the rock top.

Destination Guide

London is known worldwide as an entertainment capital, a center for the arts, a center of rich and varied heritage, a 'green' city, and waterfront attraction center. The city is alive with theaters, clubs, pubs, casinos and entertainment venues, making it a day or night out to remember. Southampton is the main regional centre for the arts, offering quality, variety and choice. Southampton has a rich and varied heritage, five excellent museums covering all aspects of the city's past and the remains of the medieval town walls. Southampton's rich heritage of parks and open spaces make it probably 'the Greenest City in the UK'. Whether it's shopping, eating out or taking in great events, there's always something to see and do on the attractive waterfront.

Destination Guide