Day 1: Athens

We leave the historic and classical capital of Greece aboard the Celestyal Crystal and set sail on our overnight voyage to one of the most iconic and evocative places in the world, stunning Istanbul. Your first night will give you the opportunity to relax, indulge in our All-Inclusive hospitality and anticipate the adventures ahead on your very own Aegean Odyssey of discovery.

 Day 2/3: Istanbul 

 There is no place on earth like Istanbul. We have two days in this vibrant
 city. Included in your itinerary is a cruise on the Bosphorus and a visit
 to the Spice Market. The Greeks, Romans, Venetians and the Ottomans
 have all held sway over this city that straddles Europe and Asia across
 the Bosphorus between the Sea of Marmara and the Black Sea. You will see
 the stunning Sultan Ahmet (Blue) Mosque, Church of Hagia Sophia,
 the Topkapi Palace, Galata Bridge, Taksim Square and of course the incomparable Grand Bazaar. And all this just touches the surface of the place once known as Byzantium and Constantinople. There will be plenty of time to enjoy the great food in one the many buzzing restaurants.

 Day 4: Çanakkale & Troy 

Most people know the seaport Çanakkale as the launching point for visiting the Gallipoli battlefields. It has charming and atmospheric cobbled lanes, which are a focal point for eating, drinking and lively conversation, so why not spend a little time here near saat kulesi (clock tower) and take it all in.
It was in this region that Helle, the daughter of Athamas was drowned in
the legend of the Golden Fleece. The city is the nearest major center of population to the ancient site of Troy, immortalised by Homer in his epic poem, the Iliad. You will not be short of mythological associations in this part of our voyage. 

Day 5: Volos

 We arrive in the attractive coastal port city of Volos in the morning.
 The area’s background will captivate you and features in some of
 the most remarkable tales of Greek mythology. Volos was the mythical
 home of Jason and the Argonauts. The famous Argonaut expedition
 set sail from the region which was also the birthplace of the Centaurs,
 part human, part equine. There is also the opportunity to visit
 the monasteries of Meteora, perched on the top of vertical rock formations
                                            and a wonder to behold.

 Day 6: Crete (Heraklion)

Welcome to Greece’s largest island, a place of mystery, myths and legends. There’s the chance to take in the bustling capital Heraklion and some of Crete’s extraordinary archaeology and history. You can also learn more of the art and creativity of the Minoans. We have included a complimentary visit to the Palace of Knossos, once the home of Europe’s oldest civilization and the setting for the legend of Greek hero Theseus and the Minotaur.

 Day 7: Santorini/Mykonos

 The beautiful face of Santorini is instantly recognizable across the world.
 We are sure she will take your breath away, with her soaring landscapes,
 clusters of whitewashed houses in the capital Fira, and of course the iconic
 blue-domed church at Oia.
 We set sail after lunch for Mykonos. You will have free time ashore to stroll
 through the atmospheric Old Town with its immaculate whitewashed houses,
 winding alleys, lovely little churches and delightful restaurants.

 Day 8: Athens 

We arrive back in the port of Piraeus at around 9am after our epic journey.