14-night Cities of Antiquity & the Holy Land Cruise

Piraeus: The Ancient City of Athens - 8 Hours

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

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

Piraeus: The Ancient City of Athens - 8 Hours

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

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

Mykonos Island Tour - Half Day Tour

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.

Delos island tour approx 4 hours

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

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 
 

Mykonos: Stunning Mykonos - 4 hours

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

Rhodes Town & Lindos - Full day tour approx 8 hours

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.

Our tour begins with a drive through Mandraki Harbour and the new part of the city of Rhodes. We make our way to Mount Smith to enjoy a panoramic view of the city and continue on to the ruins of ancient Rhodes. We will explore the Acropolis of Rhodes, where remains of the Temple of Apollo and the ancient Stadium of Diagoras dominate the skyline. At Porte d’ Amboise, we begin our walking tour through the old city of Rhodes, filled with historical reminders of the ancient and medieval past. We will walk through the northern part of town, where knights once lived, and view the Grand Master’s Palace and then continue our walk down Chevalier’s Road, and the shopping districts around Socratus street, where we will enjoy some free time.

Our drive continues along the picturesque coastline to Lindos, the most important of the three great cities of ancient times. Within its medieval walls, erected by the Knights of St. John, stands the ancient Acropolis of Lindos, 400 feet above the sea, crowned by the Temple of Athena. From the heights, you will have breathtaking views of St. Paul’s Bay, where the Apostle cast anchor during his voyage to Ephesus, and the Aegean Sea. If you prefer not to make the climb, you may remain below and explore the village with its many small shops and cafes. At a set time, we will all gather for a wonderful luncheon at a Restaurant by the sea, where we will enjoy an array of local Greek specialties with beverages. After lunch, we will have some free time to enjoy the beach or do some shopping in the village of Lindos prior to returning to the Port. 

Duration: approx. 8 hours

Notes:
•    The Grand Masters Palace is closed on Mondays
•    Steep, uphill walking is involved in Lindos. Guests with walking disabilities are recommended to stay in Lindos town for shopping.                                                         
•    It is recommended that guests wear flat, comfortable walking shoes.

Rhodes Medieval town & Lindos Tour approx 5 1/2 hours

Depart Rhodes Town and drive along the east coast to Lindos, one of the three ancient cities on the island, and enjoy a visit of the famous Acropolis. Lindos offers breathtaking views and photo opportunities of the entire village, including its Medieval castle, superb sandy beaches and charming whitewashed, sugar-cubed houses. After a walking tour through the narrow-cobbled streets, colorful courtyards and mosaics, we will return to Rhodes town.
Back in Rhodes town, begin a walking tour of the old city from the Gate D'Amboise. Marvel at the imposing Palace of the Grand Masters (visit not included) and walk on the Street of the Knights, while your guide points out the facades of the many inns once occupied by the crusaders and at the end of the street, the Knight's Hospital, now an impressive Archaeological Museum. Enjoy some free time to explore on your own, before meeting your guide for the short ride back to the pier or your hotel.
 

Lindos half day tour 4 1/2 hours

Depart Rhodes Town and drive along the east coast to Lindos, one of the three ancient cities on the island, and enjoy a visit of the famous Acropolis. Lindos offers breathtaking views and photo opportunities of the entire village, including its Medieval castle, superb sandy beaches and charming whitewashed, sugar-cubed houses. After a walking tour through the narrow-cobbled streets, colorful courtyards and mosaics, we will return to Rhodes town.
Enjoy some free time to explore on your own, before meeting your guide for the short ride back to the pier or your hotel.

Rhodes & Filermos half day tour approx. 4 1/2 hours

After meeting your professionally trained guide,  you will drive to Filerimos, a large plateau which contains the ruins of several buildings including the foundations of a temple, an Early Christian Basilica and a Byzantine monastery. Continue with a drive along the seaside road of the city to the ancient Acropolis of Rhodes where the ruins of a stadium and the Temple of Apolonas, will be seen during a short description and photo opportunity.
Next, visit the Old Town starting at the Gate d’Amboise. Visit the imposing Palace of the Grand Masters and walk the Street of the Knights down to the Knight's hospital. Admire the facades of what used to be the Inns of the Knights, nowadays shops and private residences. Enjoy some free time to explore on your own, before meeting with your guide for the short ride back to the hotel/ ship 
 

2 days/1 night shore excursion from Haifa or Ashdod - Jerusalem and Masada

Overview:
Our Private Shore Excursions make the most of your brief time in Israel.  Our port-to-port customized itineraries deliver an engaging and seamless experience.
 

• Enjoy breathtaking nature of Southern Israel.
• Visit the historic sites of Masada and Qumran caves
• Explore the roots of three religions while walking in the Old City of Jerusalem
• Experience the beauty of Jerusalem - old and new - from Mount Scopus
• Walk the Rothschild Boulevard and visit the Biblical city of Jaffa

Itinerary Highlights:
 

• Float in The Dead Sea, the lowest place on Earth

• Enjoy the beauty of the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve

• Visit Masada - a World Heritage Site

• View and walk the Qumran Caves

• Visit the Al-Aqsa Mosque, the third holiest site in Sunni Islam

• Overview of Jerusalem from the top of Mount of Olives

• Walk along the Via Dolorosa and visit the Church of Holy Sepulchre

• Walk the Rothschild Boulevard known for its extensive collection of historic buildings of the Bauhaus era

• Visit the Biblical port city of Jaffa

One (1) night accommodation per requested hotel
Two (2) days of private guided deluxe air-conditioned vehicle. Entrance fees and activities per itinerary

Destination Visited:

• The Dead Sea

• Jerusalem

• Tel Aviv&Jaffa
  
  The sequence of visits may change according to conditions on the ground.

1-day shore excursion from Ashdod: Jerusalem Old & New

Overview:
Our Private Shore Excursions make the most of your brief time in Israel.  Our port-to-port customized itineraries deliver an engaging and seamless experience.
 

• Walk the Jewish Quarter of the Old City
• Explore the Holy sites of the Christian Quarter
• Visit traditional Middle Eastern bazaars
• Experience the grace and sophistication of New Jerusalem

• Enjoy a magnificent panoramic view of Old & New Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives
• Visit the ancient synagogues and stroll through the Cardo - the reconstructed main street of Byzantine Jerusalem
• View the Temple Mount with the Dome of the Rock & the Al Aqsa Mosque
• Touch the Western Wall - Judaism’s holiest site
• Walk the final Stations of the Cross along the Via Dolorosa and visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre
• Drive through New Jerusalem, past the Jerusalem Theater, the President’s Residence and the Knesset - Israel’s Parliament
• Visit the Israel Museum to view the Model of Jerusalem from Second Temple period and the Shrine of the Book, where the Dead Sea Scrolls are housed

• Jerusalem Old City
• The Western Wall
• Church of the Holy Sepulchre
• The Israel Museum

1-day shore excursion from Ashdod: Jerusalem & Bethlehem

Overview:
Our Private Shore Excursions make the most of your brief time in Israel.  Our port-to-port customized itineraries deliver an engaging and seamless experience.
 

• Walk the Jewish Quarter of the Old City
• Explore the Holy sites of the Christian Quarter
• Experience the grace and sophistication of New Jerusalem
• Visit to Bethlehem

• Enjoy a magnificent panoramic view of Old & New Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives
• Visit the Garden of Gethsemane and the Basilica of the Agony
• Visit the ancient synagogues and stroll through the Cardo - the reconstructed main street of Byzantine Jerusalem
• View the Temple Mount with the Dome of the Rock & the Al Aqsa Mosque
• Touch the Western Wall - Judaism’s holiest site
• Walk the final Stations of the Cross along the Via Dolorosa and visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre
• Visit the Room of the Last Supper, in which, according to the Gospel accounts, Jesus shared his last meal with the disciples.
• Visit Manger Square and the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, birthplace of Jesus

• Jerusalem  Old City
• The Western Wall
• Church of the Holy Sepulchre
• Bethlehem

1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Nazareth and the Sea of Galilee

Overview
Our Private Shore Excursions make the most of your brief time in Israel.  Our port-to-port customized itineraries deliver an engaging and seamless experience.
 

• Experience breathtaking beauty of the Sea of Galilee
• Visit the Christian Holy sites in Galilee
• Explore Nazareth, childhood home of Jesus

• Enjoy an overview of Haifa from the top of Mount Carmel, including the Bahai Gardens
• Visit the Basilica of the Annunciation in Nazareth - boyhood home of Jesus
• Enjoy the spectacular view of the Sea of Galilee from the Mount of Beatitudes, the traditional site of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount
• Visit the church at Tabgha, the site of Jesus’ miracle of the Multiplication of Loaves & Fishes
• Visit the ancient synaguge at Capernaum, site of Jesus’ ministry in Galilee

• Mount Carmel
• Nazareth
• The Sea of Galilee

1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Akko Caesarea

Overview
Our Private Shore Excursions make the most of your brief time in Israel.  Our port-to-port customized itineraries deliver an engaging and seamless experience.
 

• Enjoy the beauty of Northern Israel
• Explore historical sites of Caesarea and Akko

• Enjoy an overview of Haifa from the top of Mount Carmel, including the Bahai Gardens
• Explore the ancient port city of Caesarea, including excavations from Roman, Byzantine, and Crusader periods
• Visit the ancient Phoenician and Crusader seaport of Akko, including the  underground Knight’s chambers, the Templar tunnel, and the Hospitaller Castle

• Mount Carmel
• Caesarea
• Akko

1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Caesarea Tel Aviv

Overview
 

• Enjoy the beauty of Northern Israel
• Visit the archeological sites in Caesarea
• Explore Tel Aviv and visit the Biblical city of Jaffa

• Enjoy an overview of Haifa from the top of Mount Carmel, including the Bahai Gardens
• Explore the ancient port city of Caesarea, including excavations from Roman, Byzantine, and Crusader periods
• Visit a variety of neighborhoods in Tel Aviv - the Bauhaus area, the Neve Tzedek area and Rabin Squar
• Visit the ancient port of Jaffa, with its cobblestone paths, flea market and artists galleries

• Mount Carmel
• Caesarea
• Tel Aviv & Jaffa

1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Akko - Safed

Overview
 

• Enjoy the beauty of Northern Israel
• Explore historical city of Akko
• Visit the spiritual city of Safed

• Visit the ancient seaport of Akko
• Discover the underground Knight’s chambers, the Templar tunnel, and the Hospitaller Castle
• Explore Safed, the birthplace of “Kabbalah” - Jewish mysticism
• Visit the ancient synagogues and artists’ galleries
• Enjoy an overview of Haifa from the top of Mount Carmel, including the Bahai Gardens

• Akko
• Safed
• Mount Carmel 

2 days/1 night Shore Excursion from Haifa - Sea of Galilee, Nazareth, Jerusalem and Bethlehem

Overview

Our Private Shore Excursions make the most of your brief time in Israel.  Our port-to-port customized itineraries deliver an engaging and seamless experience.
 

• Experience breathtaking beauty of the Sea of Galilee
• Visit the Christian Holy sites in Galilee
• Explore Nazareth, childhood home of Jesus
• Walk the Jewish Quarter of the Old City
• Explore the Holy sites of the Christian Quarter
• Experience the grace and sophistication of New Jerusalem
• Visit to Bethlehem

• Enjoy an overview of Haifa from the top of Mount Carmel, including the Bahai Gardens
• Visit the Basilica of the Annunciation in Nazareth - boyhood home of Jesus
• Enjoy the spectacular view of the Sea of Galilee from the Mount of Beatitudes, the traditional site of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount
• Visit the church at Tabgha, the site of Jesus’ miracle of the Multiplication of Loaves & Fishes
• Visit the ancient synagogue at Capernaum, site of Jesus’ ministry in Galilee
• Enjoy a magnificent panoramic view of Old & New Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives
• Visit the Garden of Gethsemane and the Basilica of the Agony
• Visit the ancient synagogues and stroll through the Cardo - the reconstructed main street of Byzantine Jerusalem
• View the Temple Mount with the Dome of the Rock & the Al Aqsa Mosque
• Touch the Western Wall - Judaism’s holiest site
• Walk the final Stations of the Cross along the Via Dolorosa and visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre
• Visit the Room of the Last Supper, in which, according to the Gospel accounts, Jesus shared his last meal with the disciples.
• Visit Manger Square and the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, birthplace of Jesus

• Mount Carmel
• Nazareth
• The Sea of Galilee
• Jerusalem  Old City
• The Western Wall
• Church of the Holy Sepulchre
• Bethlehem

1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Nazareth and the Sea of Galilee

Overview
Our Private Shore Excursions make the most of your brief time in Israel.  Our port-to-port customized itineraries deliver an engaging and seamless experience.
 

• Experience breathtaking beauty of the Sea of Galilee
• Visit the Christian Holy sites in Galilee
• Explore Nazareth, childhood home of Jesus

• Enjoy an overview of Haifa from the top of Mount Carmel, including the Bahai Gardens
• Visit the Basilica of the Annunciation in Nazareth - boyhood home of Jesus
• Enjoy the spectacular view of the Sea of Galilee from the Mount of Beatitudes, the traditional site of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount
• Visit the church at Tabgha, the site of Jesus’ miracle of the Multiplication of Loaves & Fishes
• Visit the ancient synaguge at Capernaum, site of Jesus’ ministry in Galilee

• Mount Carmel
• Nazareth
• The Sea of Galilee

1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Akko Caesarea

Overview
Our Private Shore Excursions make the most of your brief time in Israel.  Our port-to-port customized itineraries deliver an engaging and seamless experience.
 

• Enjoy the beauty of Northern Israel
• Explore historical sites of Caesarea and Akko

• Enjoy an overview of Haifa from the top of Mount Carmel, including the Bahai Gardens
• Explore the ancient port city of Caesarea, including excavations from Roman, Byzantine, and Crusader periods
• Visit the ancient Phoenician and Crusader seaport of Akko, including the  underground Knight’s chambers, the Templar tunnel, and the Hospitaller Castle

• Mount Carmel
• Caesarea
• Akko

1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Caesarea Tel Aviv

Overview
 

• Enjoy the beauty of Northern Israel
• Visit the archeological sites in Caesarea
• Explore Tel Aviv and visit the Biblical city of Jaffa

• Enjoy an overview of Haifa from the top of Mount Carmel, including the Bahai Gardens
• Explore the ancient port city of Caesarea, including excavations from Roman, Byzantine, and Crusader periods
• Visit a variety of neighborhoods in Tel Aviv - the Bauhaus area, the Neve Tzedek area and Rabin Squar
• Visit the ancient port of Jaffa, with its cobblestone paths, flea market and artists galleries

• Mount Carmel
• Caesarea
• Tel Aviv & Jaffa

1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Akko - Safed

Overview
 

• Enjoy the beauty of Northern Israel
• Explore historical city of Akko
• Visit the spiritual city of Safed

• Visit the ancient seaport of Akko
• Discover the underground Knight’s chambers, the Templar tunnel, and the Hospitaller Castle
• Explore Safed, the birthplace of “Kabbalah” - Jewish mysticism
• Visit the ancient synagogues and artists’ galleries
• Enjoy an overview of Haifa from the top of Mount Carmel, including the Bahai Gardens

• Akko
• Safed
• Mount Carmel 

2 days/1 night Shore Excursion from Haifa - Sea of Galilee, Nazareth, Jerusalem and Bethlehem

Overview

Our Private Shore Excursions make the most of your brief time in Israel.  Our port-to-port customized itineraries deliver an engaging and seamless experience.
 

• Experience breathtaking beauty of the Sea of Galilee
• Visit the Christian Holy sites in Galilee
• Explore Nazareth, childhood home of Jesus
• Walk the Jewish Quarter of the Old City
• Explore the Holy sites of the Christian Quarter
• Experience the grace and sophistication of New Jerusalem
• Visit to Bethlehem

• Enjoy an overview of Haifa from the top of Mount Carmel, including the Bahai Gardens
• Visit the Basilica of the Annunciation in Nazareth - boyhood home of Jesus
• Enjoy the spectacular view of the Sea of Galilee from the Mount of Beatitudes, the traditional site of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount
• Visit the church at Tabgha, the site of Jesus’ miracle of the Multiplication of Loaves & Fishes
• Visit the ancient synagogue at Capernaum, site of Jesus’ ministry in Galilee
• Enjoy a magnificent panoramic view of Old & New Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives
• Visit the Garden of Gethsemane and the Basilica of the Agony
• Visit the ancient synagogues and stroll through the Cardo - the reconstructed main street of Byzantine Jerusalem
• View the Temple Mount with the Dome of the Rock & the Al Aqsa Mosque
• Touch the Western Wall - Judaism’s holiest site
• Walk the final Stations of the Cross along the Via Dolorosa and visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre
• Visit the Room of the Last Supper, in which, according to the Gospel accounts, Jesus shared his last meal with the disciples.
• Visit Manger Square and the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, birthplace of Jesus

• Mount Carmel
• Nazareth
• The Sea of Galilee
• Jerusalem  Old City
• The Western Wall
• Church of the Holy Sepulchre
• Bethlehem

Crete: Knossos - Archanes - Heraklion Museum -5 hours

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

Highlights/Description:

• Knossos Palace
• Heraklion

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

• Meals, unless otherwise noted
• Gratuities
• Personal expenses

Introduction to the Cretan Diet & Cooking- 5 hours

Highlights/Description:

• Tasting of traditional delicacies and local drinks
• Walk in the fields and the olive groves and introduction to the local flora
• Introduction to the Mediterranean and Cretan diet
• Info booklet and Recipe Book
• Hands-on cooking class
• Outdoor lunch paired with wine and raki
• Visit to the chef’s nuno felt, mosaic and beeswax workshop
• Recipe book

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

• Meals, unless otherwise noted
• Gratuities
• Personal expenses

Looking for the Muses (Crete) - 5 hours

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

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

• Meals, unless otherwise noted

Wine Tasting and Cooking in Crete - 5 hours

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

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

• Meals, unless otherwise noted
• Gratuities
• Personal expenses

Naples: Food Tour of Naples - 4 hours

Along with your expert guide, head into the heart of the historic centre of Naples and explore one of Naples’ best food markets. Your guide will lead you through the market stalls and shops, where you can sample some of the delicious local specialties. Continue along the alleys of the historic city centre to discover the most picturesque corners of Naples. Sites include the Greek ruins of Bellini square, the street of music (San Biagio dei Librai), San Gregorio Armeno street (famous for shops selling nativity scenes), Decumani and old churches decorated in Rococo style.
Stop for a wine tasting in one of the most famous wine shops in the city before the highlight of your tour: lunch in one of the world’s oldest pizzerias! Naples is the birthplace of the pizza. The Naples pizza margherita features a soft yet satisfyingly chewy base, all puffed up and charred at the edges, the merest smear of tomato sauce, the odd dot of mozzarella and a few basil leaves. Not to be missed is the pizza fritta - the original pizza and unique to Naples - a deep fried pizza filled with ricotta cheese. Heaven on a plate!

Highlights:

• Sample some delicious specialities at one of Naples' best food markets
• Visit one of the world's oldest pizzerias for lunch

Naples: The City of Naples - 8 hours

Naples' historic city centre is the largest in Europe, covering 4,200 acres and enclosing 27 centuries of history. One of the oldest continuously-inhabited cities in the world with Bronze Age Greek settlements dating back to the second millennium BC, the area was re-founded as Neápolis (‘new city’) in the sixth century BC, becoming a lynchpin of Magna Graecia and playing a key role in the merging of Greek culture into Roman society.

Explore Naples today with your expert guide. Highlights include the Spaccanapoli district, the magnificent Duomo cathedral, the Cappella Sansevero with its virtuosic sculptural masterpiece the Cristo Velato, as well as lesser-known gems such as the San Giovanni a Carbonara. Today’s tour encompasses artistic-historic treasures and plenty of local colour. Along the way, enjoy a bite of Naples’ famous street food ‘frittura’, a sinfully delicious mix of deep fried aubergines (eggplant), zucchini, mozzarella, arancini (rice croquettes), cauliflower, or potato croquettes.
Continue your sightseeing tour in the historic centre of Naples. Visit the Castel Nuovo, the imposing medieval structure built by the Angevins to defend the city. You may also wish to visit the adjoining Palazzo Reale (The Royal Palace Museum and Royal apartments), built in the 17th century. The magnificently decorated halls and rooms contain the original Bourbon furnishings, paintings, statues and porcelain. Enjoy a panoramic drive to reach the magnificent Carthusian Monastery, the Certosa di San Martino situated on Vomero Hill, where you may visit the luxuriously decorated Baroque Style church.

Highlights:

• Try Naples' famous street food as your guide shows you the historic sights of Italy
• Visit the medieval Castel Nuovo, whose magnificently decorated rooms contain original Bourbon furnishings, paintings and statues

Naples: Historic Pompeii & Vesuvius - 9 hours

Travel outside Naples today for an excursion to Pompeii. Upon arrival at Pompeii, enjoy a walking tour of this once opulent town. The extensive and varied ruins of Pompeii now provide us with a rich history of life at the time of the Roman Empire. Destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 BC, this dugout treasure represents an amazing day trip for children and adults alike. On view are temples, forums, amphitheatres, a brothel and the casts of those killed by the falling ash and pumice stone.
Mount Vesuvius – 1281 meters high – was brought into volcanological history after the eruption of 79 BC, when it destroyed the towns and thousands of residents of Pompeii, Stabiae, and Herculaneum. Climb till the summit of the ‘mount’ this afternoon with your guide and admire the splendid views across the Bay of Naples. Lose yourself admiring its slopes, once covered with vineyards and woods that nowadays provide a spectacular backdrop for the bustling town below.

Highlights:

• The ruins of Pompeii provide an unparalleled window into life during the Roman Empire
• Climb to the summit of Mount Vesuvius to admire views across the Bay of Naples

Civitavecchia: Imperial Rome & The Vatican City - 8 hours

• Tour some of Rome's most iconic sites including the Colosseum and the Roman Forum
• Explore the impressive museum collections in the Vatican City and the breath-taking masterpiece that is Michelangelo's frescoed ceiling in the Sistine Chapel
• Spend time in the Basilica of St. Paul, the largest church in the world

• Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
• An expert English-speaking guide in Rome (6 hours)
• Entrance fees to Colosseum, Imperial Forum and Vatican Museums
• All taxes

Civitavecchia: Rome for Repeat Visitors - 8 hours

• Visit the church of San Clemente and discover its fascinating history
• Explore the Palazzo Doria Pamphilj, a majestic royal residence of one of Rome’s most illustrious families, which houses a vast private art collection

• Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
• An expert English-speaking guide in Rome (6 hours)
• Entrance fees to San Clemente and Doria Pamphilij
• All taxes

Civitavecchia: Gastronomic Rome and Time at Leisure - 8 hours

• Uncover Rome's bohemian quarter, along with tastings of Italy's best loved delicacies 
• Car and driver at your disposal to discover Rome

• Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
• An expert local guide (3 hours)
• Entrance fees
• All taxes
• Food and wine tastings

Civitavecchia: Museums of Rome - Capitoline and Borghese - 8 hours

• Travel out to Capitoline Hill and visit one of the oldest museum complexes in the world
• Visit Villa Borghese, home to a collection of sculptures and paintings that are among the most important in Italy

• Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
• An expert English-speaking guide in Rome (6 hours)
• Entrance fees to the Capitoline Museums and Villa Borghese
• All taxes

Civitavecchia: Imperial Rome & The Vatican City - 8 hours

• Tour some of Rome's most iconic sites including the Colosseum and the Roman Forum
• Explore the impressive museum collections in the Vatican City and the breath-taking masterpiece that is Michelangelo's frescoed ceiling in the Sistine Chapel
• Spend time in the Basilica of St. Paul, the largest church in the world

• Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
• An expert English-speaking guide in Rome (6 hours)
• Entrance fees to Colosseum, Imperial Forum and Vatican Museums
• All taxes

Civitavecchia: Rome for Repeat Visitors - 8 hours

• Visit the church of San Clemente and discover its fascinating history
• Explore the Palazzo Doria Pamphilj, a majestic royal residence of one of Rome’s most illustrious families, which houses a vast private art collection

• Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
• An expert English-speaking guide in Rome (6 hours)
• Entrance fees to San Clemente and Doria Pamphilij
• All taxes

Civitavecchia: Gastronomic Rome and Time at Leisure - 8 hours

• Uncover Rome's bohemian quarter, along with tastings of Italy's best loved delicacies 
• Car and driver at your disposal to discover Rome

• Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
• An expert local guide (3 hours)
• Entrance fees
• All taxes
• Food and wine tastings

Civitavecchia: Museums of Rome - Capitoline and Borghese - 8 hours

• Travel out to Capitoline Hill and visit one of the oldest museum complexes in the world
• Visit Villa Borghese, home to a collection of sculptures and paintings that are among the most important in Italy

• Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
• An expert English-speaking guide in Rome (6 hours)
• Entrance fees to the Capitoline Museums and Villa Borghese
• All taxes