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Admire the temples of the Athenian acropolis

At the heart of the Greek Islands

Roundtrip Athens - Example 8 Day Cruise aboard L'Austral
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On this 8-day Greek Islands Cruise aboard L'Austral, experience the rich history and culture of the Aegean Sea on a cruise that visits Delos, the birthplace of Apollo according to mythology. Explore the iconic beaches and windmills of Mykonos, including the picturesque Alefkandra district, with houses perched on the water's edge. Admire the stunning Gothic architecture of the medieval city of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit Heraklion, the capital of Crete, situated on a hillside with breathtaking views of the port and surrounded by strong Venetian walls. End the journey in Athens, the legendary city dominated by the Acropolis and its monuments that embody the most extraordinary architectural and artistic legacy of Ancient Greece.
Iconic AthensExplore the beautiful walkways of SantoriniMykonos windmills at sunsetDiscover beautiful Symi islandAdmire the Terrace of the Lions on DelosColorful local boats in GreeceAdmire the temples of the Athenian acropolis
Highlights
  • Kid Explorers Club in partnership with MAUD FONTENOY FOUNDATION
  • Enjoy UNESCO World Heritages Sites in Athens and Delos.
  • A unique sunset sailing experience in the Santorini caldera
  • Plenty of small coves for swimming
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: Athens | Embark

Arrive in Athens, and explore the city located on the Saronic Gulf’s edge. Named for the villages surrounding the Acropolis, Athens is home to UNESCO World Heritage monuments. Discover lively neighborhoods like Plaka, where colorful streets and the tempting aromas of moussaka and garlic prawns await. Visit key attractions such as the National Archaeological Museum and the Cycladic Art Museum to delve into Athens' rich cultural history.

Day 2: 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 are listed by UNESCO as World Heritage, are located at the top of a hillside planted with vines and orchards. On the shore, the crystalline coves of Kambos and Lampi offer absolutely gorgeous swimming areas.

Included Excursion

Patmos, island of the Revelation
Explore the enigmatic island of Patmos, renowned for the Monastery of Saint John and the Cave of the Apocalypse. Visit religious sanctuaries, see remarkable Byzantine artifacts, and enjoy panoramic views from the Chorá windmills. Note: This excursion involves significant walking, including stairs, and appropriate dress is required for religious sites.

Day 3: 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 get to the upper town by car or climb the 500 steps up the Kali Strata ramp. The second option offers superb viewing points of the coast and gorgeous turquoise waters.

Included Excursion

Walking around Symi, the Pearl of the Dodecanese
Wander the vibrant quays of Symi’s lower town and ascend to the heights for breathtaking bay views. Marvel at the island’s colorful neoclassical houses and historic significance from its Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman past. Visit the picturesque Gialos port district and choose to climb the 500 steps of Kali Strata for panoramic coastal vistas. Wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes.

Day 4: 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.

Included Excursion

The wild beauty of Amorgos
Explore Amorgos, the "Big Blue" film location. Visit the Byzantine Hozoviotissa Monastery on a cliff, founded in 1088, then stroll through Chora’s charming streets and relax in Plateia Lozza. Be prepared for a 269-step climb or enjoy views from the car park. Wear comfortable clothing and modest attire for the monastery.
 

Day 5: 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. You’ll discover the wild beauty of the shorelines lined with the most beautiful beaches in Greece from a ship deck, and you’ll 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.

Included Excursion

Natural wonders and ancient vestiges of Milos
Explore northern Milos' stunning limestone cliffs, tranquil inlets, and charming whitewashed villages.
Discover Sarakiniko’s unique volcanic landscape and enjoy its serene bay. Visit Trypiti’s ancient Roman Theatre and see the site where the Venus de Milo was found. Wander through Plaka’s narrow streets and admire views from Korfiatissa Church. Wear comfortable shoes and sun protection.
 

Day 6: Delos | Paros

This legendary Cyclades island of Delos stands just a few miles southwest of Mykonos. The ceremonial solemnity of this ancient holy sanctuary will not leave you indifferent. The sheer size and importance of this UNESCO World Heritage site which covers over half of the island is thrilling in itself. From the Stoa of Antigonos, the Terrace of the Lions, to the carved marble animal statues, you will make discovery after discovery, against a backdrop of the Aegean stretching to the horizon. The theatre steps on the hillside are a particularly good place from which to enjoy the expansive view.

Famous for its white marble, the island of Paros is located in the Cyclades. Along the quays of Parikia, its main town, you’ll see Byzantine churches and neoclassical buildings. To make the most of the turquoise waters, you can stop over in Naoussa. This little fishing port is bounded by a very beautiful cove.

Included Excursion

The Archaeological site of Delos
Discover Delos, the sacred birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. Explore Europe's oldest open-air archaeological site, featuring ancient ruins, the Apollonian sanctuary, and the Terrace of the Lions. Wander through the luxurious Theatre Quarter with its Hellenistic mosaics. Wear comfortable shoes and sun protection.

Villages, Basilica and Vineyards on Paros
Explore Paros’ hillside villages, windmills, and vineyards. Visit Lefkes for panoramic views and the Moraïtis wine estate for a tasting. Wander Naoussa’s charming streets and end at Parikia’s Panagia Katapoliani basilica. Expect two hours of walking on uneven surfaces; wear comfortable shoes and sun protection.

From Parikia to Naoussa
Explore Paros, visiting the historic Parikia with its Panaghia Katapoliani basilica, Lefkes with its charming streets and views, and the picturesque fishing village of Naoussa with its Venetian castle. Expect moderate walking and some steps. Wear comfortable shoes and appropriate attire for religious sites.
 

Day 7: Hydra

This unusual gem belonging to the Saronic Islands is located to the 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 caïques along the quays. Further along the shore, you will discover the Historical Archives Museum. Collections from the Athens National History Museum are exhibited in the elegant villa Koundouriotis.

Included Excursion

A dive into Hydra’s history
Explore Hydra’s car-free charm with a visit to the Historical Archives Museum, the Church of the Dormition, and the Koundouriotis Mansion. Enjoy local amygdaloto and coffee, then stroll through picturesque streets. The excursion includes walking on uneven terrain and stairs. Wear comfortable shoes, sun protection, and modest clothing for religious sites.

Day 8: Athens | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
The Greek capital city is located on the edge of the Saronic Gulf, in the east of the country. It bears a plural name about the first villages that surround the Acropolis. You will 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, and 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 also some of the city’s key attractions and allow visitors to discover Athens’ cultural past.

Ship/Hotel

L'Austral

Enjoy a gourmet meal at the Gastronomic Restaurant.
Stunning views from the bar and lounge
Relax on the sun deck.

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Deals

Holiday Offers 26556
Book by January 3, 2025, and save 10% off on select 2024, 2025 and 2026 sailings. Applicable on new bookings only, booked and deposited between November 25, 2024, and January 3, 2025. Subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time. Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for details.
Applies to Jul 2, 2025 departure

Per person starting at
$6,070 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.
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
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
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
200 sq ft with 43 sq ft private balcony. A/C, king or twin beds, seating area, private bath.
Deluxe Suite
Deluxe Suite
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
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
  • 7 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 7 Dinners
  • 7 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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Beyond expectations! Then again we weren't sure what to expect. Lovely stay at the lodge, met other like-minded travelers (many had their trips planned by Adventure Life) and the owner was a gracious hostess. It felt like you were one happy family, visiting with a favorite aunt.
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