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Hagia Sophia in Istanbul

Antique wonders of the Aegean

Istanbul - Athens - Example 9 Day Cruise aboard Le Boreal
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Embark on a 9-day cruise aboard Le Boreal, uncovering the Aegean Sea's treasures. Departing Istanbul, this journey blends history, natural beauty, and unforgettable experiences. Explore Paros' charming villages, Patmos' sacred sites, and Symi's serene shores. Sail the Dardanelles to Bozcaada, known for vineyards and cobblestone streets. Swim in crystal-clear waters and visit the Dodecanese, including Patmos, the "Jerusalem of the Aegean." Discover Amorgos' wild beauty, Santorini's breathtaking caldera, Paros' ancient marvels, and Milos' dramatic cliffs. Conclude with Hydra's tranquil charm and Athens' iconic Acropolis, the pinnacle of Ancient Greece.
Discover beautiful Symi islandRelax on the sunny beaches of ParosExplore ancient monasteries in GreeceWhite buildings on the Island Of ParosVisit beautiful HydraExplore beautiful coastal towns in GreeceHagia Sophia in Istanbul
Highlights
  • Explore Istanbul's vibrant history, a UNESCO-listed cultural and architectural gem
  • Discover Bozcaada's Greek charm, cobbled streets, and translucent turquoise waters
  • Visit Patmos' sacred sites, including the monastery and holy cave
  • Explore Symi's colorful harbor with multi-hued houses and tranquil waters
Places Visited
Activity Level: Variable
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Istanbul | Embark

Nestled on the Bosphorus, Istanbul is a city of unparalleled beauty and rich history, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Originally founded as Byzantium by the Greeks and later renamed Constantinople under the Roman Empire, it boasts iconic landmarks. On Sultanahmet Hill, the majestic Blue Mosque, the enigmatic Hagia Sophia, and the sprawling Topkapi Palace with its intricate mosaics overlook the Marmara Sea. In the Beyazit district, the Grand Bazaar invites exploration with its elegant covered passages, while the Egyptian Bazaar entices visitors with the enticing aromas of loukoum and exotic spices.

Day 2: Sailing in the Dardanelles | Bozcaada

The Dardanelles Strait, a 61 km-long iconic waterway, links the Aegean Sea to the Sea of Marmara, serving as a strategic gateway between the Mediterranean and the Black Sea. Like the Bosphorus, it marks the boundary between Europe and Asia. Its unique currents—freshwater at the surface and a saline undercurrent beneath—create a dynamic flow. Rolling hills and arid lowlands adorned with olive groves and fields offer picturesque views along the strait.

Just off the coast of the legendary ancient city of Troy lies Bozcaada, a gem of the Aegean with crystal-clear waters and a landscape dotted with Greek islands. With its neighbor, Gokceada, Bozcaada is one of Turkey's only Aegean islands. Transferred to Turkey in 1923, it retains a distinct Greek charm, evident in its cobblestone streets and traditional whitewashed houses with blue accents. Famous for its ancient vineyards, Bozcaada captivates with a stunning blend of sheer cliffs, golden beaches, and hidden coves with translucent waters.

Day 3: Patmos

Patmos is one of the legendary must-see islands in the Dodecanese. This is where Saint John resided, presumed author of the last book in the Bible. The Cave of the Apocalypse and the Saint John Monastery are dedicated to him. These sites, which UNESCO lists as World Heritage, are at the top of a hillside planted with vines and orchards. On the shore, the crystalline coves of Kambos and Lampi offer gorgeous swimming areas.

Day 4: Symi

A simply ravishing gem in the Dodecanese, Symi is located northwest of Rhodes. This island of cypress forests, vineyards, and olive orchards possesses a capital city of the same name that is as colorful as the surrounding countryside. The charm of the port district of Gialos is not to be missed: its quaysides are lined with picturesque houses with multi-colored facades. You can drive to the upper town or climb the 500 steps up the Kali Strata ramp. The second option offers superb viewing points of the coast and gorgeous turquoise waters.

Day 5: Amorgos | Sailing in the Santorini Caldera

It’s no accident that the island of Amorgos was chosen as a shooting location for Luc Besson’s film, The Big Blue. You, too, will fall under the charm of this island as your ship edges closer. Amorgos is the most easterly island in the Cyclades and stands out for its rocky inlets with crystal-clear water and its small, picturesque villages. This port of call will be your chance to visit one of the prettiest villages in the Cyclades, Chora, and discover its cobbled streets and whitewashed houses overlooked by a castle. Byzantine churches, windmills, and courtyards brimming with flowers complete this typical tableau of timeless Greece.

Sailing in the waters of Santorini caldera is breathtaking. The gigantic scale of the unique setting and the majesty of the high cliffs surrounding this ancient crater that was flooded in 2000 years before Christ are some of the highlights of the cruise. From your ship, the colorful whites, greys, and reds of the volcanic rocks, the blue of the Aegean Sea, and the immaculate perched villages form a unique and marvelous spectacle.

Day 6: Paros

Famous for its white marble, the island of Paros is located in the Cyclades. You can see Byzantine churches and neoclassical buildings along the quays of Parikia, its main town. You can stop over in Naoussa to make the most of the turquoise waters. A very beautiful cove bounds this little fishing port.

Day 7: Adamas, Milos

Although Milos is especially renowned for the famous statue of Venus, found in a field there and now displayed in the Louvre in Paris, this mineral island is also a geological treasure. Its volcanic origin is evident in its breathtaking landscapes and the colors of its cliffs, ranging from pure white to deep red. Discover the wild beauty of the shorelines lined with the most beautiful beaches in Greece from a ship deck, and enjoy privileged access to emerald-green coves. Tiny fishing ports like Adamas hide there, with brightly painted doors and terraces. Milos is a charming port of call in the heart of the Cyclades.

Day 8: Hydra

This unusual gem belonging to the Saronic Islands is located east of the Peloponnese. There are no cars here. Named after the island, the harbor town is layered up the slopes of a mountainous bay. You may be surprised to see beautiful stone mansions. These are traditional here, as are the multi-colored caiques along the quays. Further along the shore, discover the Historical Archives Museum. Collections from the Athens National History Museum are exhibited in the elegant villa Koundouriotis.

Day 9: Athens | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
The Greek capital city is on the edge of the Saronic Gulf in the east. It bears a plural name for the first villages surrounding the Acropolis. Be enchanted by the rocky plateau presided by its monuments listed as UNESCO World Heritage. In the city below, you can visit some of the liveliest districts in Athens: Plaka, with its maze of colorful streets, where, in the evenings, the drifting aroma of moussaka and garlic prawns will tickle your taste buds. The National Archaeological Museum and the Cycladic Art Museum are some of the city’s key attractions, allowing visitors to discover Athens’ cultural past.

Ship/Hotel

Le Boreal

Enjoy the pool on the sun deck.
Enjoy the view from the bar.
Enjoy a gourmet meal at the Gastronomic Restaurant.

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Per person starting at
$5,830 2-3 travelers
Rates are dynamic and fluctuate based on capacity. Contact us for a specific quote.
Superior Stateroom
Superior Stateroom
8 cabins, 226 sq ft, located on Le Champollion Deck. A/C, king or twin beds, seating area and private bath.
Prestige or Deluxe Stateroom
Deluxe Stateroom
28 cabins, 200 sq ft with private balcony. A/C, king or twin beds, seating area, private bath.
Prestige Stateroom
Prestige Stateroom - Deck 4
Deck 4, 200 sq ft with 43 sq ft private balcony. A/C, king or twin beds, seating area, private bath.
Prestige Stateroom
Prestige Stateroom - Deck 5
Deck 5, 200 sq ft with 43 sq ft private balcony. A/C, king or twin beds, seating area, private bath.
Prestige Stateroom
Prestige Stateroom - Deck 6
Deck 6, 200 sq ft with 43 sq ft private balcony. A/C, king or twin beds, seating area, private bath.
Deluxe Suite
Deluxe Suites
3 suites, 290 sq ft with 54 sq ft private balcony, located on the Le France Deck. A/C, king or twin beds, seating area, desk, minibar, private bath.
Prestige Suite
Prestige Suite - Deck 5
398 sq ft with 86 sq ft private balcony. A/C, king or twin beds, communicating cabins available. Separate living area, private bath.
Prestige Suite
Prestige Suite - Deck 6
398 sq ft with 86 sq ft private balcony. A/C, king or twin beds, communicating cabins available. Separate living area, private bath.
Owner's Suite
Owners Suite
1 suite, 484 sq ft with 97 sq ft private balcony. A/C, king or twin beds, communicating cabins available. Separate living, dining areas, private bath with large tub and shower, minibar, 2 flat screen TVs, DVD, CD, and IPOD, Video on demand, Satellite phone.

Notes

Please Note:
Fares are based on double occupancy and are capacity controlled. Rates may increase at any time as the ship sells out and subject to change without notice.
Included
  • 8 Breakfasts, 7 Lunches, 8 Dinners
  • 8 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Port Fees
  • Unlimited Wifi
  • Onboard Entertainment 
  • Captain’s Welcome Cocktail and Gala Dinner
  • Gratuities to Onboard Crew
  • “Open Bar” (pouring wines, house champagne, alcohol except premium brands...list available upon request)
  • 24h Room Service (special selection)
  • English-Speaking Lecturer 
  • Highly experienced and bilingual (French-English) expedition staff
  • Park Entry Fees into Protected Areas
  • Water sports activities (except scuba diving) using the ship’s equipment, when permitted by local authorities and confirmed by ship Master according to safety and sea conditions onsite. 
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Visa Fees
  • Optional Excursions - Ponant allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately six to two months prior to the cruise* departure. Please note that this is subject to change. Please contact us for more details.
  • Any ground services before and/or after the cruise other than the ones mentioned
  • Luggage Handling 
  • Laundry Services, Hair Salon, and à La Carte Spa Treatments
  • Pre or post cruise programs, overland programs or shore excursions 
  • Beverages other than the ones mentioned in inclusions
  • CDP recommends that every Traveler has full and adequate travel insurance covering the risks of cancellation, assistance being required, repatriation, damages to and loss of baggage, and medical expenses

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