Istanbul to Athens

Arrive in Istanbul and transfer to the SeaDream II. Settle in to your cabin and explore the ship, then attend a welcome dinner as you set sail for Greece.

Molyvos (Mithymna), is famous for its unique beauty and traditional architecture. Explore the medieval castle on top of the hill, or remain in the harbor for water sports.

Skopelos and Skiathos are part of the Sporades island group. Greener and less crowded than the Cyclades islands further south, the islands offer a serene glimpse of the Mediterranean.

Arrive in Kusadasi, a resort town on Turkey's Aegean coast. Spend some time in the grand bazaar and practice your negotiating skills with the locals, or join a land excursion to Ephesus. This comprehensive Land Adventure includes a guided tour of the stunning ancient city, including the recently excavated Terrace Houses and the House of the Virgin Mary.

Patmos is recognized worldwide as The Jerusalem of the Aegean. Believed to be the place where Saint John wrote the Book of Revelations, the island is sacred. Designated the Holy Island by the Greek Parliament in 1981, Patmos is also an ideal destination for nature lovers thanks to its lace-like coastline, sheer cliffs, beautiful beaches and volcanic soil.

With the popularity and sometimes overcrowding at Santorini and Mykonos, Paros offers a quieter, unspoiled option in the Aegean. Historically, Paros was once known for its fine white marble, which gave rise to the term "Parian" to describe marble or china of similar qualities. Most visitors make an effort to see the famous Church of Ekatontapyliani (Our lady of a Hundred Doors), which is the holy place of Paros and linked to the history and myths of Byzantium. Tradition and history state that the church began life in the reign of Constantine the Great (280 - 337 A.D.) or Justinian (527 - 565). After its restoration in 1959, the chuch became the third most important Christian building in Greece.

Santorini, also known as Thera, is a volcanic island located in the southern Aegean Sea. Santorini was formed by a large volcanic explosion that destroyed the earliest settlements on what was formerly a single island, and led to the creation of its current geological caldera.

Nafplion was the capital of the First Hellenic Republic from the start of the Greek Revolution in 1821 until 1834, and is simply one of the most beautiful towns in the area of Argolis. In town, climb nearly 1000 steps to the fortress, or participate in wine tasting at a local vineyard.

There is one main town on Hydra, known simply as "Hydra Port." Explore the steep stone streets which lead up and outwards from the harbor area. The charm of Hydra town lies in her rich history, beautiful port, and pristine waterfront, which is unspoiled by motorized vehicles. The island offers a rugged charm and some spectacular scenes, making it the perfect place for self-exploration.

Arrive in Athens in the early morning and disembark after breakfast. Transfer into the city or to the airport for your continued independent journeys.