Gain a remarkable understanding of the ancient world by browsing key archaeological ruins and historical sites that will reveal the complexities of that Greek civilization, while pausing along the way to sample superb Greek wines. This is a small group program and thus limited to 14 participants.

NOTE: there are lengthy drives on this program and guests with mobility issues may have difficulty with the terrain at the ruins of Delphi

ALSO NOTE: Initially, a decision was taken during the peak pandemic period to undergo an extensive widening of the canal at Corinth. Works commenced and were scheduled to be completed already; however, according to the relevant authorities, the suppliers for this project are now very far behind schedule. There are hopes to have the canal operational for transit mid summer 2024 however this cannot be guaranteed. Should your program date be affected, a photo stop will be made to see the Canal in lieu of the crossing. Your final cruise documents (21 days before sailing) will have the most up to date information for your program.

DAY 1

Upon arriving at the Athens International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel in the Kolonaki neighborhood. Following check-in, the afternoon will be free to explore the area on your own. Kolonaki is known for its upscale shopping and trendy bars, so you will have plenty of choices.

This evening, you will dine at the seaside restaurant Varoulko at the Microlimano marino. Michelin-star chef Lefteris Lazarou created the restaurant menu, so expect a fantastic dining experience. Afterwards, you will return to the hotel to spend the night.

DAY 2

Following breakfast at the hotel, you will depart for the Peloponnese area, where you will board a boat and transit the Corinth Canal. The canal connects the Gulf of Corinth with the Saronic Gulf in the Aegean Sea, separating the Peloponnese from the Greek mainland. The canal was dug at sea level and has no locks, unlike many other canals. During the transit, you will learn about early attempts to construct a canal in this location, including a failed attempt during Nero’s reign in 1st century.

You will then proceed to an ancient section of Corinth to view an archaeological site with a surprising mix of ruins. Some of the remains are from a 6th-century BC Greek city, while others are from a 44 BC Roman colony built at the end of Julius Caesar’s reign. Some of the more fascinating highlights include a Christian basilica, the starting lines of a Greek racetrack, a sacred spring with bronze lion’s-head spouts, and the elaborate Roman fountain of Peirene, which according to myth was where Pegasus drank.

The Nemea wine region is among Greece's most important red-wine appellation. The mountains and valleys surrounding the village of Nemea have been producing wine for centuries, mostly from the native Agiorgitiko grape. A wide range of wines are made with this red grape variety, including dry wines and lighter, sweeter ones. While visiting a nearby wine estate, you will sample a selection of distinct wines and enjoy a light lunch.

Continuing on, you will cross the Rio-Antirrio Bridge, one of the world’s longest multi-span cable-stayed bridges and the longest of the fully suspended type. The bridge spans the Gulf of Corinth near Patras, linking the town of Rio on the Peloponnese peninsula, to Antirrio on mainland Greece.

Once on the mainland, you will stop at Nafpaktos, a seaside town known for its lengthy beach and an impressive Venetian castle. The naval Battle of Lepanto occurred just off the coast in 1571. The Ottoman fleet was soundly defeated, marking the end of the western expansion of the Ottoman Turks. Miguel Cervantes, who later wrote “Don Quixote,” lost the use of his left arm during the battle.

Ahead, lie the the small coastal towns of Galaxidi and Itea, which you will pass on the way to Arachova. You will spend the evening there at the Anemolia Hotel. Dinner will be offered at the hotel or a restaurant in Arachova.

NOTE: Should the canal not be ready for transit, the group will have a photo stop instead.

DAY 3

After an American breakfast at the hotel, you will begin an immensely scenic drive into central Greece, eventually stopping in Delphi. The ancients believed the site to be the physical and spiritual centers of the earth.

You will walk along the Sacred Way, following the same path up Mount Parnassus that the ancient pilgrims took to seek advice from the Oracle of Delphi. The pilgrims would ask the oracle questions about the future, and she would answer somewhat cryptically. Even so, the oracle was famous throughout Greece and far beyond.

You will also browse a museum at Delphi with a superb collection of votive offerings and statues, including the glorious Charioteer, one of the finest bronze statues from ancient Greece.

A short drive will bring you to the village of Distomo and on towards the Monastery of Ossios Loukas, which dates to the 10th century. UNESCO declared the walled monastery a World Heritage site for its outstanding Byzantine religious architecture. Please note that women must wear clothing that covers their knees and shoulders to enter.

Upon returning to the hotel, the remainder of the day will be at your leisure with dinner on your own.

NOTE: This program includes walking over steep and uneven terrain with steps in places at the ruins of Delphi (the Sacred Way) with no places to sit, other than on rocks. The area also offers very little shade. Make sure to have a hat and sunscreen. Guests with mobility restrictions may find it difficult to make it to the top however the museum is accessible.

DAY 4

After breakfast at the hotel, you will drive to Athens with a small deviation to visit the spectacular, family-owned winery Domaine Hatzimichalis. You will enjoy a tasting of its award-winning wines before continuing on to the

port of Piraeus to board the cruise ship.

DAY 1

Arrive at Athens International airport

You are met and transferred to your hotel

2:00pm Check-in time at the hotel

Afternoon at leisure

7:30pm Depart for dinner at Varoulko in Microlimano

9:30pm Return to the hotel

Overnight at the St. George Lycabettus or a similar hotel

DAY 2

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel

8:00am Depart for Corinth Canal

9:15am Arrive at the Isthmus of Corinth and commence transit

10:45am Depart for ancient Corinth

11:00am Guided tour of ancient Corinth

11:45am Depart for Nemea

12:30pm Commence winery visit with light lunch

2:30pm Depart for the Rio-Antirio Bridge

3:30pm Cross to mainland Greece

3:50pm Stop at Nafpaktos

4:20pm Depart for Arachova

6:00pm Arrive at Arachova

8:00pm Dinner in the hotel or restaurant

Overnight at the Anemolia Hotel or a similar hotel

DAY 3

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel

9:00am Depart for Delphi

9:15am Guided visit of the archaeological site

11:00am Depart for Ossios Loukas Monastery

11:30am Guided visit of the Ossios Loukas Monastery

12:30pm Depart for lunch venue

1:00pm Lunch

2:30pm Return to the hotel

Afternoon and evening at leisure, dinner on your own

Overnight at the Anemolia Hotel or a similar hotel

DAY 4

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel

9:30am Depart the hotel for Atalanti

11:00am Visit Domaine Hatzimichalis for wine tasting and snacks

12:00pm Depart for Piraeus

2:00pm Arrive at the port for embarkation

Please Note

There is a large number of uneven steps at Ancient Corinth and Delphi.

Large bags are not permitted inside the archaeological sites and museums.

Expected Weather

Athens has a Mediterranean climate with hot and dry summers. Temperatures average 84 degrees Fahrenheit (29 degrees Celsius) in August but can exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius).

What to Bring

Sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, camera and charger.

Currency

The Euro. U.S. dollars are not accepted.

Electricity

220V. We recommend bringing a travel adaptor for electric devices.

Documents and Visa Requirements

A valid passport is required.

Accommodations

Domotel Anemolia

Arachova, Delphi

Phone: +30 22670 31640

St. George Lycabettus

Kleomenous, 2, Athens

Phone: +30 210 7416 000

We will only substitute a hotel in unforeseen situations. If a hotel is substituted, it will be similar and with equal ratings and standards, and guests will be notified in advance. If guests are not notified of any changes before departure, then the hotels listed in this program will be used.

Program Includes

•Professional and fully qualified English-speaking guide

•2 nights in Arachova at the Domotel Anemolia or similar hotel (executive double room)

•1 night in Athens at the St. George Lycabettus or similar hotel (standard double room with Acropolis view)

•Breakfast daily and all other meals per the itinerary

•Entrance fees to all sites visited

•Winery visits per the itinerary

•Corinth Canal transit or photo stop should constuction not be complete

•All applicable taxes

•Transfers

Please Note: Guests booking their own flights independently of the cruise line are responsible for ensuring that the cruise line has the updated arrival information, so your transfer can be arranged. If you book additional nights independently of the cruise line, an arrival transfer is not provided. If we do not receive flight details a minimum of 14 days in advance, transfers will not be provided.

Program Excludes for guests

•Gratuities for guides and drivers

•Any meals or beverages not listed above

•Personal expenses and hotel incidentals including mini bar and room service

Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, gravel and natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation.

Please note: All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations. Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Land programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty.

There are no refunds for unused portions of any program. Guests failing to arrive on Day 1 of a scheduled land program will be considered no-shows and their hotel space released. Arrangements for accommodations and transfers then will be at the expense of guests.

Enjoy the unique opportunity to visit two of the most precious and sacred sites which lie in the most beautiful and unspoiled parts of Northern Greece.

NOTE: This is an extensive 4-day program that covers a lot of ground both on foot and by luxury coach. There is a lot of driving involved. This tour is not recommended for guests with walking difficulties due to the amount of walking, steps and uneven ground.

DAY 1

Upon arrival to the Athens International airport you will be met and transferred to your hotel in the center of Athens. The remainder of the day and evening are at your leisure with meals on your own.

Overnight at the Divani Caravel Hotel or similar hotel.

Note that check in time at the hotel is at 2:00pm.

DAY 2

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel and then meet your guide in the lobby to begin your sightseeing tour of Athens.

Begin with a visit to the famous site of the Acropolis. En route you will drive by Constitution Square, the House of Parliament, the Neo-Classical style university buildings, the Royal Palace and the Old Olympic Stadium of Athens.

Arriving at the foot of the Acropolis, one of the most photographed ancient monuments in the world, you will set off with your group on a walking tour to the top. Your guide will stop along the way to brief you on its history. Once you get to the top you will have some free time to explore and take photographs. Admire the ancient temples of Athena Nike and the towering Parthenon as well as the gorgeous view of the city of Athens below.

Note: Expect high temperatures in the summer months and heavy crowds. There are upwards of 100 or more un-even steps to get to the top of the monument. There is handrail in some spots but not all. Those not wishing to venture to the top can remain at the bottom and wait for the group to return. At the top the ground is uneven. Large bags are not permitted here and will need to be left on the tour bus.

Next you will visit the breathtaking Acropolis Museum – an impressive building that was completed and opened in 2009 and has an exhibition space of more than 14,000 square meters. It houses every artifact found on the rock and on the surrounding slopes, from the Greek Bronze Age to Roman and Byzantine Greece. It also lies over the ruins of a part of Roman and early Byzantine Athens.

Following your visit of the museum, take a stroll with your group through the enchanting, traditional streets of Plaka, the colorful old quarter of Athens, rich in neoclassical, ancient monuments and Byzantine Churches. Here in the Plaka, you will have a traditional Greek lunch before returning to your hotel where you will have some free time.

In the evening you will be met by your guide and you will transfer to the picturesque Mikrolimano Area in Piraeus where you will dine at Varoulko Restaurant. Lefteris Lazarou, Greece’s top-awarded Michelin Star Chef created the restaurant’s menu, so you will not be disappointed in this fantastic dining experience.

Overnight at the Divani Caravel Hotel or similar hotel.

DAY 3

The next day enjoy breakfast at your hotel and board your coach for the drive to Delphi. The beautiful drive into the land of central Greece will bring you to the magnificent site of Delphi.

Delphi was considered by the ancients to be the physical and spiritual centers of the earth. This shrine of Apollo set nearly 2,000 feet up on the slopes of Mount Parnassus. Here was the most respected oracle of antiquity. Even the most intelligent men, who lived during the brilliant civilization of Athens, believed implicitly in the responses of the god. These were given by the inspired priestess, the Pythia, and were interpreted, usually with an ambiguous touch, by the priests. Delphi grew fabulously rich with offerings, and though they have almost all disappeared now, you can admire the ruins and try to picture it as it was during its 1,000 prestigious years.

Walk up the Sacred Way past the beautiful small Treasuries to the Temple of Apollo, location of the oracle; continue to the Museum with its superb collection of votive offerings and statues, including the world-famous Charioteer. A traditional country lunch will be offered at the nearby village of Arachova. After lunch you will board your coach and commence the drive to the town of Kalambaka, after check-in your dinner will be served at the hotel and the evening will be at your leisure. Kalamaba is the picturesque town that sits at the foot of Meteora. After check-in your dinner will be served at the hotel and the evening will be at your leisure.

Overnight at the Divani Meteora Hotel or similar hotel

DAY 4

After breakfast you will board your coach for the visit of the Meteora Monasteries. Admire the extraordinary rocks of Meteora which were formed as a result of the force of the nature and they appear to be suspended in the sky, crested with the celebrated monasteries. Today only six monasteries are inhabited, two of which have become nunneries. You are invited to delve into two of these remarkable phenomena, seemingly floating in the sky and serving as an example of the post-Byzantine era.

After the visit of the Monasteries you will commence your drive to the port of Piraeus in order to board your vessel for your cruise.

NOTE: Scheduled visits are for the Monastery of the Great Meteoron “Megalo Meteoro” and The Nunnery of St. Stefanos “Agiou Stefanou”. Should one be closed it will be substituted with Moni Varlaam.

Steps vary from one to the other - The Monastery of the Great Meteoron has approximately 200 steps, St.Stefanos Monastery has approximately 10 steps and Moni Varlaam has approximately 80 steps.

Coaches are able to drop off guests approximately 300- 500 feet from each Monastery.

Land Program Details Step by Step

•The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. Program times are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. •Itineraries with the up-to-date details will be issued when you are emailed your final cruise documents 21 days prior to sailing. You will then receive a final itinerary from our ground operator with a Welcome Letter upon arrival or at your hotel. Please review the letter and your final itinerary carefully for further amendments.

•The hotels used for your land program will be the hotels listed in this document unless you have been advised otherwise in advance of the land program start date.

•Guests failing to arrive on Day 1 of a scheduled land program will be considered a no-show and their hotel space released.

Extra Nights

•If you book extra nights through the cruise line, you will be met as per the flight details provided and transferred to your hotel. Check-in is 2:00pm (subject to change). Meals other than breakfast, as well as activities, are on your own until day 2 of the program.

•If you have an early-arriving flight, you may wish to book an extra night as your room will not be ready for occupation until approximately 2:00pm.

•If you book extra nights on your own, transfers are not included.

DAY 1

Arrive at the Athens International airport

Transfer to your hotel

2:00pm Check in - Time at leisure and meals on own

Overnight at the Divani Caravel Hotel or similar hotel

Meet and Greet and transfers

•Final cruise documents will be emailed 21 days prior to sailing. The local ground agent’s telephone number will be on page 1, if you can’t locate the meet-and-greet representative upon arrival. Be aware that the representative may be assisting others and may not be in sight when you first exit Customs and the luggage claim area.

•Look for someone holding a sign with the cruise line logo and possibly your name. If in doubt, ask the airport staff to direct you to the meeting area for transfers or to page our representative.

•Meet and Greet and transfers are arranged for guests arriving on Day 1 of a land program or for extra nights booked through the cruise line and are arranged based on the flight details received by guests at least 14 days before sailing. Guests arriving independently before the program start date will not have a transfer included.

•If we have not received your flight details or your flights have changed, and the Destination Services Land Team has not been notified, then a transfer cannot be provided, and guests will be responsible for getting to the land program hotel at their own expense. Please immediately contact our Reservations Department for any flight changes before departure.

DAY 2

AM Enjoy breakfast at your hotel

8:00am Depart for a panoramic drive around Athens ending at the Acropolis

9:00am Visit the Acropolis, guided

11:00am Depart for the Acropolis Museum

11:15am Guided visit of the Acropolis Museum (restrooms here)

12:45pm Depart for lunch in the Plaka Area

1:00pm Lunch

2:30pm Return to your hotel for some free time

6:45pm Depart the hotel for dinner

9:00pm Return to your hotel

Overnight at the Divani Caravel Hotel or similar hotel

DAY 3

AM Enjoy breakfast at your hotel

8:00am Check out and depart the hotel for Delphi

10:00am Restroom stop in Livadia

10:15am Arrive in Delphi

10:45am Guided visit of the Site and Museum – Restrooms on site

1:00pm Depart for Lunch venue in Arachova – Restrooms at the lunch venue

1:15pm Lunch

2:15pm Depart for Kalambaka

6:30pm Arrive in Kalambaka

Dinner and overnight

Overnight at the Divani Meteora Hotel or similar

DAY 4

AM Enjoy breakfast at your hotel

8:45am Depart hotel for Meteora, Visit Monasteries

11:00am Depart for the Port of Piraeus comfort stop and quick lunch included

4:45pm Board your ship in Piraeus

Important Note:

Large bags are not permitted at the Acropolis

There are a large number of uneven steps without handrails at the Acropolis site

The Monasteries scheduled to visit are:

•The Monastery of the Great Meteron “Megalo Meteoro” (closed on Tuesdays)

•The Nunnery of St. Stefanos “Agiou Stefanou” (closed on Mondays)

•If necessary, we will substitute a monastery that is closed with the: Moni Varlaam

Expected Weather:

Over the course of a year, the temperature typically varies from 40°F to 90°F and is rarely below 32°F or above 95°F. The warm season lasts from June to September with an average daily high temperature above 83°F. The cold season lasts from December to March with an average daily high temperature below 61°F.

What to Bring: Sunglasses, hat, comfortable walking shoes. Sweater or jacket during the cooler months. Dress code is applicable at the Meteora Monasteries (knees and shoulders must be covered for the females)

Currency:

EURO

Electricity:

220V. Please bring a travel adaptor if you have electronic devices as the hotels do not provide these

Documents and Visa Requirements:

A valid passport is required

Accommodation:

Athens:

Divani Caravel Hotel or similar

Vassileos Alexandrou Av., 2, Athens

Tel: +30 210 720 7000

Kalambaka:

Divani Meteora Hotel or similar

National Road, Trikala Ioannina

42200Kalambaka, Greece

Tel. +30 2432023330

*We will only substitute hotels in unforeseen situations. If similar hotels are substituted, they will be of equal ratings and standards. If you are not notified of any changes before your sailing, then you will be staying at the hotel listed in the program.

Program Includes for guests:

Transfer from the airport to the hotel in Athens

Deluxe coach for touring

Professional and fully qualified English-speaking guide

Accommodation in Athens at the Divani Caravel Hotel or similar (standard double room)

Accommodation in Kalambaka at the Divani Meteora Hotel or similar (standard double room)

3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners

Entrance fees to all sites visited

Any applicable taxes

Please Note: Guests booking their own flights (independent of the cruise line) are responsible for ensuring that the cruise line has the updated arrival information, so your transfer can be arranged. If you book additional nights independently of the cruise line, an arrival transfer is not provided. If we do not receive flight details a minimum of 14 days in advance, transfers will not be provided.

Program Excludes for guests:

Gratuities for guides and drivers

Any meals not listed above

Personal expenses and hotel incidentals including mini bar and room service

Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include: inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.

Please note: All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations. Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Land Programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty. There are no refunds for unused portions of any program. Guests failing to arrive on Day 1 of a scheduled land program will be considered a no-show and their hotel space released.