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Visit Rome's famed Colosseum

Rome to Athens

Example 15 Day Cruise aboard Star Flyer
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Embark on this 15-Day Rome to Athens exploration cruise aboard Star Flyer. Depart from Civitavecchia and sail through Ponza. See the pastel houses of Ponza Town rise in neat terraced rows from the busy harbor. Then enjoy snorkeling in Palmarola before heading to Sorrento, whose city walls rise straight out of the sea, located on the lovely Amalfi Coast, and overlooks the Bay of Naples. Visit Italy's seven volcanic Aeolian Islands, off the north coast of Sicily. Then sail through the narrow Strait of Messina past Scylla and Charybdis, and arrive in Taormina. Explore Monemvasia, a perfectly preserved Byzantine fortified port, and much more before concluding your cruise in Piraeus, Greece.
Explore the ancient Roman ForumSorrento LandscapeAn abandoned theatre in Taormina, Sicily Mykonos windmills at sunsetMykonos at DuskExplore the beautiful walkways of SantoriniRelax on beautiful SantoriniVisit Rome's famed Colosseum
Highlights
  • Experience snorkeling in Palmarola with pink coral beaches & emerald coves
  • Tour the medieval castello and secluded beach in Lipari, Italy
  • Explore the stunning valley of Olympia
  • Visit the perfectly preserved Byzantine fortified port of Monemvasia
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: Civitavecchia | Embark

St. Peter's, with its breathtaking Sistine Chapel, newly restored to its former glory- the Spanish Steps, where all Rome passes by the Colosseum, where gladiators fought to the death, and the Pantheon, considered to be the most perfect architectural statement of the ages.

Day 2: Ponza | Palmarola

The pastel houses of Ponza Town rise in neat terraced rows from the busy harbour where sleekly groomed yachts and ramshackle fishing boats moor side by side. Happily, there are few tourists here, so it's a delight to wander through the unspoiled town.

Palmarola is a snorkeling heaven that is part of a group called The Pontine Islands, located off the coast between Rome and Naples. A craggy landscape with pink coral beaches and emerald coves beckons so don't forget your swimsuit and flippers. Totally unique, isolated, and stunning.

Day 3: Sorrento

Sorrento, whose city walls rise straight out of the sea, is located on the lovely Amalfi Coast and overlooks the Bay of Naples. Optional excursions might include taking a trip back in history to Pompeii, where the ashen remains of ancient Romans lie frozen in time.

Day 4: Lipari - Aeolian Islands

Italy's seven volcanic Aeolian Islands, just off the north coast of Sicily, are obviously a place favored by the Gods. In Lipari, climb narrow streets to the medieval castello and enjoy a secluded beach. As Royal Clipper sails past Isola Strラmboli, watch the sky for frequent volcanic fireworks.

Day 5: Taormina - Sicily

Barreling under full sail through the narrow Strait of Messina past Scylla and Charybdis, where rock and whirlpool almost claimed Ulysses, you arrive in lovely Taormina. Perched on the shoulder of Mt. Etna, Taormina inspired Goethe to say that it is the greatest work of art and nature.'

Day 6: At Sea

Each Star Clippers ship offers a traditional and elegant way to see the world. Feel the wind fill the sails and gently carry you from one gorgeous destination to the next. During your time on board, you can choose to relax on a sun lounger or cool off in one of the pools on the top deck, while more adventurous passengers may enjoy the opportunity to climb the rigging or even have a go at steering the ship. Alternatively, you can wander the interior areas of the ship and discover relaxing lounges, a revitalizing spa (Royal Clipper only), and a peaceful library.

Day 7: Katakolon

The beach at little Katakolon is an inviting diversion, but you surely want to go inland to Olympia for bigger game. Set in a stunningly lovely valley overlooked by Kronos Hill, Olympia began hosting athletic games in the 11th century BC. Walk through the sacred Temples of Zeus and Hera, stand on the still visible starting line in Stadium, and imagine the chariots about to hurtle around the Hippodrome.

Day 8: Pilos

Homer's 'Wise King Nestor' was very wise indeed to build his magnificent palace near Pilos. For the city's harbor of Navarino Bay and the land-locked lake that was the original harbor were a perfect refuge from storms - and invaders. And it was at this site on October 20, 1827, with the help of Britain, Russia, and France, that modern Greece attained independence, defeating the Turkish navy in the Battle of Navarino Bay.

Day 9: Monemvasia

From the shore, it's a big rock sticking out into the sea. Then you pass over the causeway, and through an iron fortress gate, and suddenly, the town of Monemvasia is before you, a perfectly preserved Byzantine fortified port, once 60,000 strong, now home to just a few hundred. You can readily see why the name Monemvasia means single entrance! In the rocky hills above, ancient Byzantine ruins loom over the town, while below a maze of red-tiled roofs and twisting alleys hide tavernas and cafes and the home of revered Greek poet Yannis Ritsos.

Day 10: Nafplio

Nafplio is a seaport town in the Peloponnese that is one of Greece's prettiest and most romantic towns. Elegant Venetian houses, neoclassical mansions, and interesting museums nestle beneath the towering Palamidi fortress. There are also plenty of quayside cafes to relax in and some lovely boutiques to keep the keen shoppers occupied. The town is an ideal base from which to explore many nearby ancient sites. it is a popular destination for locals from Athens so it is busy in peak season.

Day 11: Mykonos

One of the most cosmopolitan of all the Greek Islands, Mykonos is a contrast of rocky hills and beautiful beaches. Hora, the capital, spreads around a colorful harbor, a popular meeting place, overlooked by a variety of tavernas, in which fishing boats nestle side by side with luxury yachts.

Day 12: Sifnos

Sifnos is a charming Greek island in the Aegean Sea known for its picturesque landscapes, traditional villages, and rich culinary culture. Renowned for its whitewashed buildings, stunning beaches, and tranquil ambiance, Sifnos offers a relaxing retreat for travelers seeking an authentic Greek island experience. The island is also celebrated for its pottery tradition and Cycladic architecture, making it a unique and captivating destination in the Greek archipelago.

Day 13: Santorini

The island of Santorini is perhaps the most breathtaking of all the Greek Islands. Around 1500 BC, a volcanic eruption destroyed the center of the island, leaving a crescent-shaped rim of cliffs around a harbor formed in the volcano's caldera.

Day 14: Hydra

Hydra is a town of stately mansions all built around 1800 by blockade runners who had made fortunes outwitting the British during the Napoleonic Wars. As there are no cars, for the spectacular view from the Monastery of Ilias you'll have to ride a donkey to the top.

Day 15: Piraeus (Port of Athens) | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
Walking in the shadow of the Acropolis in the Agora, you can almost hear the voices of Plato, Socrates, and Aristotle arguing about who was the greatest philosopher. Ancient Athens, the birthplace of democracy and epicenter of western civilization, is a city for all eternity.

Ship/Hotel

Star Flyer

Star Flyer, Star Clipper Interior
Star Flyer/Star Clipper Bar

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

This itinerary is no longer available. For other trip ideas, please visit Mediterranean Small Ship Cruises.
Star Flyer Category 6 Cabin
Category 6
Located on the Commodore Deck, 4 Inside Staterooms (no portlight) have upper and lower Pullman style bunk beds, ample closet and storage space, a private bathroom with shower, and a sitting area with desk, vanity, and seating. All staterooms have their own thermostat-controlled air-conditioning, telephone, private safe, and hairdryer.
Star Flyer, Star Clipper Cabin Category 5
Category 5
Located on the Clipper & Commodore Decks, 6 Outside Staterooms w/porthole (#139,136,300,301,342,345), with Portlight, with raised Fixed Double Bed (43 inches (1.09 m) off the floor / raised about 4-feet off the ground and steps/stairs are provided in order to reach bed) Ample closet and storage space, private bathroom with shower, and a sitting area with desk, vanity, and seating. All staterooms have their own thermostat-controlled air-conditioning, telephone, television with DVD player, private safe, and hairdryer. 2 Inside Staterooms (Inside/no porthole = cabin 404 & 406) feature Two Twin beds that convert to a double (no portlight) ample closet and storage space, private bathroom with shower, and a sitting area with desk, vanity, and seating. All staterooms have their own thermostat-controlled air-conditioning, telephone, television with DVD player, private safe, and hair dryer. The inside Category 5 is also equipped with an additional Pullman bed (upper bunk) to accommodate a third guest/child.
Star Flyer, Star Clipper Cabin 4
Category 4
Located on the Commodore Deck, 20 Outside Staterooms with 1 Portlight, two twin beds that convert to a double, ample closet and storage space, a private bathroom with shower, and a sitting area with desk, vanity, and seating. All staterooms have their own thermostat-controlled air-conditioning, telephone, television with DVD player, private safe, and hairdryer. Some staterooms are equipped with additional bedding (upper Pullman-upper bunk bed) to accommodate a third guest.
Star Flyer, Star Clipper Cabin Category 3
Category 3
Located on the Clipper & Commodore Decks, 20 Outside Staterooms with 1 Portlight, two twin beds that convert to a double, ample closet and storage space, private bathroom with shower, and a sitting area with desk, vanity, and seating. All staterooms have their own thermostat-controlled air-conditioning, telephone, television with DVD player, private safe, and hairdryer. Some staterooms are equipped with additional bedding (upper Pullman-upper bunk bed) to accommodate a third guest
Star Flyer, Star Clipper Cabin Category 2
Category 2
Located on the Clipper Deck, 24 Outside Staterooms with 1 Portlight, two twin beds that convert to a double, ample closet and storage space, a private bathroom with shower, and a sitting area with desk, vanity, and seating. All staterooms have their own thermostat-controlled air-conditioning, telephone, television with DVD player, private safe, and hairdryer. Some staterooms are equipped with additional bedding (upper Pullman-upper bunk bed) to accommodate a third guest.
Star Flyer, Star Clipper Cabin Category 1
Category 1
Located on the Main & Sun Decks, 8 Outside Staterooms (with 1 Window + 1 Portlight) located on the Main deck - have a full windowed door leading to the main deck, two lower beds that convert into a double-sized bed, ample closet and storage space, private bathroom with whirlpool tub and shower, and a living area with desk, vanity, and sofa. All deluxe staterooms have their own thermostat-controlled air-conditioning, mini bar, telephone, television with DVD player, private safe, hairdryer, bathrobes.
Star Flyer Owner's Cabin
Owner's Cabin (Double)
Located on the Clipper Deck, Cabin with 4 Portlights, one fixed double-sized bed, ample closet and storage space, private bathroom with whirlpool tub and shower, and a spacious living area with desk, vanity, and wrap-around sectional sofa. All suites have their own thermostat-controlled air-conditioning, mini bar, telephone, television with DVD player, private safe, hairdryer, bathrobes. Cabin Stewart service and complimentary mini-bar (an exception to champagne)

Notes

Single supplement: A single supplement fare is available at 150% of the published cruise fare for categories 2-6. It is available at 200% for category 1 cabins, Deluxe Suites, and Owner's Suites. Single space is capacity controlled and may not be available on all departures.
Included
  • 14 Breakfasts, 13 Lunches, 14 Dinners
  • 14 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • All meals and snacks (open seating) including: Coffee and tea are available 24 hours a day. Different juices are included only for breakfast.
  • Ocean transportation to remote ports.
  • Complimentary snorkeling, kayaks, paddle boarding, water-skiing, windsurfing, and sunfish sailing (subject to weather conditions and local authorities).
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Gratuities
  • Visa
  • Port Fees
  • All transfers to/from the boat from airports.
  • Laundry services 
  • Medical services
  • Shore Excursions
  • Alcoholic drinks and sodas.

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Everything was amazing! The planning with Adventure Life went smoothly. The actual trip was fantastic! One of the best trips I have experienced. The cruise staff members were knowledgeable and attentive. I will be writing more about this on the blog!
Justin Chappelle

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