Greek Isles Cruise ADVENTURE STARTS HERE
Rome (Civitavecchia) , Italy | Sicily (Siracusa) , Italy | Chania (Souda) , Crete | Mykonos , Greece | Athens (Piraeus) , Greece | Santorini , Greece | Naples / Capri , Italy | Rome (Civitavecchia) , Italy
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Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy
BORN TO EXPLORE
The Eternal City endures with endless adventures. Sip a cappuccino in an al fresco café and watch the city wake. Peruse ancient artifacts in National Roman Museum and Italian masterworks in Villa Borghese. Or learn about the ancestors of the Romans at the National Etruscan Museum.
The Eternal City endures with endless adventures. Sip a cappuccino in an al fresco café and watch the city wake. Peruse ancient artifacts in National Roman Museum and Italian masterworks in Villa Borghese. Or learn about the ancestors of the Romans at the National Etruscan Museum.
in Rome (Civitavecchia)
ANCIENT AND AMAZING
Walk through the heart of Ancient Rome. Start at the Colosseum, an enormous arena where gladiators once battled. Then meander around the Roman Forum’s timeworn ruins, past crumbling temples and basilicas. See where emperors lived on Palatine Hill— and enjoy an up-close view of the 2,000-year-old, well-preserved Pantheon church.
FAMOUS PLACES
Roam around Rome’s piazzas, as each offers a unique perspective. Dine al fresco in Piazza Navona and climb The Spanish Steps in Piazza di Spagna. Wander cobbled alleys in bustling Trastevere and browse Campo de’ Fiori’s artisan stalls. Be sure to toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain for good measure.
SACRED PLACES
Explore the Vatican Museums’ extraordinary collection of tapestries and classical statues. Step inside the Sistine Chapel and be awed by Michelangelo’s ceiling frescoes. Then enter St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the world’s largest churches, to stand under its enormous sky-piercing dome.
LOCAL CUISINE
Romans live to eat, whether it’s family-style or in a sidewalk café. For an authentic taste of Cucina Romana, try carciofi alla Romana (braised artichokes) or spaghetti alla carbonara. Enjoy panino (stuffed sandwiches) or thin-crusted Roman pizza. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a scoop of gelato. Then finish the night with a glass of white wine from the surrounding Lazio region.
SHOPPING
Street stalls throughout the city are your best bet for souvenirs. Via Condotti offers a string of couture Italian designers. Browse artist studios along Via Margutta, or the indie artisan retailers of the Monti neighborhood. Porta Portese is the city’s largest flea market— and La Rinascente, the first department store.
INSIDER TIP
The train ride between Civitavecchia and Rome is approximately 80 minutes each way.
Sicily (Siracusa), Italy
Explore Siracusa
Walk into the ancient center of Siracusa, confined to the island of Ortigia, or explore sites of the 2,600-year old Neapolis, which include the pre-Roman Greek Theatre. Give in to the temptation you feel as you spy the cobalt waters lapping at the Ortigia's shores, and sun yourself on untamed Calamosche beach, which sits just south of the city center.
Walk into the ancient center of Siracusa, confined to the island of Ortigia, or explore sites of the 2,600-year old Neapolis, which include the pre-Roman Greek Theatre. Give in to the temptation you feel as you spy the cobalt waters lapping at the Ortigia's shores, and sun yourself on untamed Calamosche beach, which sits just south of the city center.
In Sicily (Siracusa)
Discover Pre-Roman History
Siracusa's Ortigia old town is home to plenty of traditional Italian architecture, namely the central Duomo cathedral. Cruise to Siracusa, Italy and explore deeper into the city's ancient past, whether at the Greek Theatre (which dates to the 5th century B.C.) or the Necropolis, burial caves that date back three millennia. Siracusa is also home to non-Roman travel attractions from just after the fall of the empire, such as the Byzantine-era Maniace Castle.
Bathe in Crystalline Waters
The various unnamed city beaches that surround Ortigia and Siracusa's main harbor are plenty inviting. Enjoy fine, white limestone sand and dazzlingly blue water. If you have a long stop (say, four to six hours), consider hiring a taxi to drive you south to more secluded beaches, such as Calamosche or Fontane Bianche.
See Where a Miracle Happened
Siracusa is full of beautiful churches, and though you might not consider the 20th-century Santuario della Madonna delle Lacrime to be among them, it certainly has the most interesting backstory. At this site, in 1953, a mass-produced statue of the Virgin Mary is said to have cried actual tears — a miracle, according to the Catholic Church.
Local Cuisine
Fresh seafood, not surprisingly, is the most delicious food in Siracusa, whether you savor simple polipo bollito, boiled octopus with fresh lemon wedges, or the spicier purpetti, which are grilled patties of ground fresh tuna with eggs and pecorino, infused with the flavor and aroma of cloves. Siracusa, like the rest of Sicily, is also famous for cannoli, rolled flaky pastry horns filled with sweet, fluffy ricotta cheese.
Shopping
Whether at stalls in Ortigia's outdoor market or at shops you find as you explore the old city, you'll want to buy artisanal Sicilian paper, which is handmade from the Papyrus reeds that grow wild around Siracusa. Another must-buy souvenir from Siracusa during your cruise vacation is Nero d'Avola, a locally famous wine made from grapes grown nearby.
INSIDER TIP
Sicilians have a minimal grasp of English, even for Italians, so bring a pocket dictionary or have your translation app handy.
CRUISING
CAN'T-MISS FAVOURITES
Things to Do
NOW BOARDING FOR ADVENTURE
Grab your board and get ready for 100,000 litres of rushing amazingness headed your way. The surf’s always up on the 12-metre-long FlowRider® surf simulator.
A BOLDER BOULDER
Rise to the occasion and take on the signature Rock Climbing Wall. From beginners to speed climbers, everyone can enjoy an unparalleled view from 12 metres (40 feet) above deck. Included in your fare, no reservation required.
Chania (Souda), Crete
Greek Heritage
Dating back to Mycenaean times, Chania places you in its deep cultural roots and longstanding traditions. The ancient buildings bear marks of many battles fought here throughout the centuries. Today, you'll be hard-pressed to find a more peaceful spot — pick a shaded spot beside the beach and dip your feet into the Greek sun-kissed waters.
Dating back to Mycenaean times, Chania places you in its deep cultural roots and longstanding traditions. The ancient buildings bear marks of many battles fought here throughout the centuries. Today, you'll be hard-pressed to find a more peaceful spot — pick a shaded spot beside the beach and dip your feet into the Greek sun-kissed waters.
in Chania
Active Archaeology
One of ancient Crete's most important city-states, Aptera sits on a hill just south of the bay, with two seaports at the entrance to Souda Bay. Check out this active archaeological site to learn about new discoveries that shed light on the most powerful city of western Crete during Minoan times.
Mountain Monasteries
Stroll the sandy beach at Stavros Bay, where Anthony Quinn danced in 1964's 'Zorba the Greek'. Explore the three monasteries – Agias Triada, Gouverneto and Katholika – set on this rocky peninsula. Discover Bear Cave on the footpath leading to Katholiko built into the cliff.
Hike to the Gorge
At 18 kilometres, Samaria is the longest of the many deep gorges that cut into Crete's mountains. The entrance is 42 kilometres south of Chania, and you can hike independently or with a guide. On the way, you might run into some kri kri, the wild goats found only on Crete. The gorge opens out to the black-sand beach at Ayia Roumeli.
Local Cuisine
Restaurants with fresh seafood abound at the Chania waterfront. Local signatures of savoury lamb, mini cheese pies and fresh vegetables also bring something special to the plate. And don't miss the dacos, a traditional Cretan bread served with tomato, mizithra cheese and rivers of virgin Cretan olive oil.
Shopping
Chania's Old Town is packed with unique shops selling handmade ceramic kitchenware and decorations with classic geometric designs, one-of-a-kind jewellery made from pearl and coral – and of course, the local extra virgin olive oil, which is typically cold-pressed and retains distinctive flavours of green apple and freshly cut grass. Take the time to explore the narrow, less-travelled streets to find both bargains and unique items during your Crete cruise.
INSIDER TIP
Known as the "temple of gastronomy," the architecturally distinctive Chania Municipal Market is the place to discover local delicacies.Known as the "temple of gastronomy," the architecturally distinctive Chania Municipal Market is the place to discover local delicacies.
Mykonos, Greece
Discover Mykonos
Powder white houses, sparkling blue waters and red-hot nightlife – the Island of the Winds carries you away with colourful upmarket adventures. Explore Hora’s bougainvillea-laced pathways and see the Folklore Museum’s Mykonian ship models. Join the raucous party on the shimmering sands of Super Paradise beach. Or watch the sunset from an open-air taverna – all nestled in the heart of Greece’s Cyclades islands.
Powder white houses, sparkling blue waters and red-hot nightlife – the Island of the Winds carries you away with colourful upmarket adventures. Explore Hora’s bougainvillea-laced pathways and see the Folklore Museum’s Mykonian ship models. Join the raucous party on the shimmering sands of Super Paradise beach. Or watch the sunset from an open-air taverna – all nestled in the heart of Greece’s Cyclades islands.
in Mykonos
COASTAL COSMOPOLITAN
Mykonos’ main town of Hora is a mixture of classic Cycladic architecture and buzzing street culture. Admire the stark-white Panagia Paraportiani chapel and meet the town’s famous pelican Pétros. See the island’s trademark 16th-century windmills spinning high above the port. Then explore the strip of medieval houses and waterfront cafés in Little Venice.
INTO THE BLUE
The multi-hued waters surrounding Mykonos are perfect for surfing and scuba diving, while prevailing winds invite sailing and windsurfing. Get your fill of aquatic thrills, then hit the beach – Psaroú for family fun, Agrari for seaside serenity, Paradise for epic beach parties or Elia for a blend of all three.
DIG UP THE PAST
Enjoy a short boat trip to the island of Delos, a sacred Greek archaeological site and the mythological birthplace of twin gods Apollo and Artemis. Comb the crumbling ruins of its ancient theatre, Doric temples, markets and mosaic-laced houses – plus the Terrace of Lions statues and amphitheatre.
LOCAL CUISINE
Some of the Mediterranean’s most delectable restaurants are found on Mykonos. Its trademark kopanisti (peppered cheese) is a must-try, while you can’t go wrong with classic kremmydopita (onion pie). Enjoy fresh seafood by the sea – or a glass of sweet Heliophilos wine in a beach bar. Then for dessert go for amygdalota (almond cookies) or melopita (honey cake).
SHOPPING
Hora is a hub for top designer fashions, including the world-famous Soho-Soho clothing boutique. Family-owned and operated Greek Light sells handmade jewellery with Greece’s traditional maiandros symbol. And don’t leave Mykonos without buying a pair of house-designed sandals or hand-loomed weavings – scarves, rugs or tablecloths.
INSIDER TIP
Hop on one of the many seawater-taxi services around the island for transport to the beaches.
Athens (Piraeus), Greece
Explore the Acropolis
Explore the harbors of Piraeus, which showcase the Golden Age of Greek history. Visit the Hellenic Maritime Museum and the ship sheds — here, you can see how ancient ships were crafted. In the charming Castella district, you'll find some small, quaint shops and cafes amid the elegant neoclassical buildings. Head to Sotiros Street to find brand name stores, alongside smaller local shops.
Explore the harbors of Piraeus, which showcase the Golden Age of Greek history. Visit the Hellenic Maritime Museum and the ship sheds — here, you can see how ancient ships were crafted. In the charming Castella district, you'll find some small, quaint shops and cafes amid the elegant neoclassical buildings. Head to Sotiros Street to find brand name stores, alongside smaller local shops.
in Athens (Piraeus)
Take Me to Church
The Agia Triada is one of the finest examples of Byzantine-style churches in Greece. The Church of St. Nicholas, which overlooks the port, has a magnificent interior filled with orthodox icons, frescoes and sculptures.
Mediterranean Romance
Part of the Castella district, Mikrolimano is the smallest and most picturesque port of Athens, making it perfect for a romantic afternoon. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade to take in the amazing views, then settle in a cafe or taverna for some fresh seafood or a refreshing drink with your cruise to Athens.
Boats and the Bronze Age
The Naval Museum has exhibits that present ship building from ancient times to the present day. You will be fascinated by the Neosoikoi, the archaeological remains of the ship sheds where local craftsmen maintained and repaired the boats. Art lovers will have plenty to see at the Piraeus Archaeological Museum, from Bronze Age sculptures to classical Hellenistic pottery.
Local Cuisine
Try the local dishes prepared with sun-ripened tomatoes, eggplant, bell peppers and fresh seafood like mussels and grilled octopus. Look for trovolia, a typical fresh cheese to savor with marinated olives. Ask for recommendations on local wines — the most common white is lively, floral and aromatic Moschofilero, while the red of choice is Xinomavro, an indigenous grape with a bold, complex flavor.
Shopping
You may want to bring back home some of the typical liquors such as the anise-flavored Ouzo or the strong Tsipouro. Greek olives, spices and capers can be vacuumed-packed, making for convenient souvenirs. Look for locally made leather sandals, pottery and hand-painted ceramics. You'll find most shops in the Psyri district, not far from the Acropolis during your Athens cruise.
INSIDER TIP
The yellow trolley bus (number 20) will take you from the port to Passalimani, going through Castella and ending at the Metro station.
Santorini, Greece
Greek Island
Santorini is one of the world’s most popular islands, where adventure bubbles above the Aegean Sea in breathtaking ways. Take a cable car to see Fira’s old cathedrals and enthralling museums. Swim in deep blue waters that lap black pebbled beaches. And peel back layers of history in excavated Akrotiri – all while relishing the dramatic scenery of this Cyclades isle.
Santorini is one of the world’s most popular islands, where adventure bubbles above the Aegean Sea in breathtaking ways. Take a cable car to see Fira’s old cathedrals and enthralling museums. Swim in deep blue waters that lap black pebbled beaches. And peel back layers of history in excavated Akrotiri – all while relishing the dramatic scenery of this Cyclades isle.
in Santorini
VOLCANIC WONDERS
Explore the volcanic history and geology of Santorini, site of an immense eruption 3,500 years ago. Trek the rocky landscape of Nea Kameni, an island in the centre of the Santorini caldera, to see its smoking craters. Then soak in the soothing hot springs of Palea Kameni.
IT TAKES A VILLAGE
Considered the island’s most picturesque village, Oia radiates authentic Cyclades charm. Meander along tiny paths squeezed between stark-white villas. Snap selfies with the blue-domed St Gerasimos Church, and view Byzantine castle ruins. Or dine on Greek seafood in a waterfront taverna – also the perfect perch for watching Oia’s fabulous sunsets.
THE GLASS HALF FULL
Indulge your taste buds in a delectable tasting journey amongst the island’s traditional wine cellars. Vineyards dapple Santorini’s countryside, and many are amongst some of Europe’s oldest. White Assyrtiko and red Mantilaria are both popular varietals – and be sure to sample Santorini’s beloved dessert wine, Vinsanto.
LOCAL CUISINE
Thanks to Santorini’s rich volcanic soil, the island has a solid reputation for producing fantastic wines and vegetables – fresh cherry tomatoes, fava beans and white aubergine included. Try egg-based sfougato and fried tomatokeftedes fritters, two Santorini specialities. Pick up melitinia cookies from a local bakery. And for an after-dinner drink, sip unsweetened, anise-flavoured raki.
SHOPPING
Ypapantis Street in Fira is known for its dozens of jewellery stores selling pieces inspired by ancient Greek and Byzantine designs. You’ll find local artwork in the galleries of Oia and books about the Cyclades in Atlantis Books. A bottle of Santorini wine or Canava ouzo makes for a tasty souvenir.
INSIDER TIP
Wear hiking boots or comfortable sneakers and plenty of sunscreen when hiking the caldera.
CRUISING
FOR FOODIES
Things to Do
FAMOUSLY FANTASTIC ITALIAN
At Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver, you’ll enjoy Tuscan-inspired dishes like the crowd-pleasing Famous Plank and pastas made in-house – all crafted by one of Britain’s most famous chefs.
A FAR EAST FEAST
Say “Konnichiwa” to a reimagined favorite. Sushi, sashimi and more, all made-to-order with intense flavors, the best ingredients and impeccable presentation.
Naples / Capri, Italy
Hisotry in Italy
The third-largest Italian city and one of the oldest in Europe, Naples combines deep history and modern verve. Check out the extravagant Royal Palace of Naples, the former home of the royal family, with its beautiful tapestries and frescoes. People-watch from a streetside cafe in the Sanita district with a glass of wine and slice of classic margheritapizza. Then, head to Herculaneum to see the ruins left in Vesuvius wake after its historic eruption in 79 A.D.
The third-largest Italian city and one of the oldest in Europe, Naples combines deep history and modern verve. Check out the extravagant Royal Palace of Naples, the former home of the royal family, with its beautiful tapestries and frescoes. People-watch from a streetside cafe in the Sanita district with a glass of wine and slice of classic margheritapizza. Then, head to Herculaneum to see the ruins left in Vesuvius wake after its historic eruption in 79 A.D.
in Naples / Capri
Go Underground
Interested in getting up close and personal with Naples' past residents? Head underground to visit the Catacombs of San Gennaro. These historic burial places are the oldest in the city and the largest in all of Southern Italy. Spend some time wandering around the different rooms to see how the rooms where the wealthy and poor were buried.
Historic Hike
A quick bus ride will bring you to Mount Vesuvius National Park at the foot of the historic volcano. While there are a number of nature walks around the volcano, the real highlight is Monte Somma, the oldest, inactive crater. Hike up to the top with your camera in hand, take a peek at the steam coming out and snap some photos of the Bay of Naples.
Church Bells Ring
Naples' churches are a great way to tour its architectural treasures, and most of them are concentrated in the old town center. Check out San Domenico Maggiore, with its impressive gold-gilded ceiling and interior. Inside Sansevero Chapel, you'll find a number of impressive Baroque statues and classical art. And don't miss the beautiful frescoes and peaceful vibe of Gesu Nuovo Church during your Capri cruise.
Local Cuisine
Neopolitan-style pizza is Naples culinary gem. Grab a seat at L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele, which has been serving up pizza since 1870, and order a slice of simple, classic margherita, topped with fresh basil, tomato sauce and local mozzarella di fiore. Cruise to Naples and head to Friggitoria Vomero for the town's best arancini — gooey, fried spheres of rice and cheese — or panzarotti, a mini-calzone stuffed with mozzarella, tomato and other ingredients like spinach or ham.
Shopping
Head to Via Toledo, the longest shopping street in Naples, which offers small boutiques and a huge department store. Continue down the road to Galleria Umberto I, a beautiful shopping gallery for some high-end souvenirs such as silk scarves and leather shoes to take back home.
INSIDER TIP
You won't be able to visit the Catacombs of San Gennaro without a guided tour, so be sure to book yours well in advanced.
Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy
ETERNAL ADVENTURE
Spend the afternoon combing Ancient Rome’s ruins or the spiritual treasures of Vatican City. Sip pre-dinner aperitivo— or better yet, hop in the home kitchen of a local chef for a hands-on lesson in La Cucina Romana. Evenings in this romantic city are perhaps best spent at the Teatro dell’Opera or wandering its many buzzing piazzas.
Spend the afternoon combing Ancient Rome’s ruins or the spiritual treasures of Vatican City. Sip pre-dinner aperitivo— or better yet, hop in the home kitchen of a local chef for a hands-on lesson in La Cucina Romana. Evenings in this romantic city are perhaps best spent at the Teatro dell’Opera or wandering its many buzzing piazzas.
in Rome (Civitavecchia)
ANCIENT AND AMAZING
Walk through the heart of Ancient Rome. Start at the Colosseum, an enormous arena where gladiators once battled. Then meander around the Roman Forum’s timeworn ruins, past crumbling temples and basilicas. See where emperors lived on Palatine Hill— and enjoy an up-close view of the 2,000-year-old, well-preserved Pantheon church.
FAMOUS PLACES
Roam around Rome’s piazzas, as each offers a unique perspective. Dine al fresco in Piazza Navona and climb The Spanish Steps in Piazza di Spagna. Wander cobbled alleys in bustling Trastevere and browse Campo de’ Fiori’s artisan stalls. Be sure to toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain for good measure.
SACRED PLACES
Explore the Vatican Museums’ extraordinary collection of tapestries and classical statues. Step inside the Sistine Chapel and be awed by Michelangelo’s ceiling frescoes. Then enter St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the world’s largest churches, to stand under its enormous sky-piercing dome.
LOCAL CUISINE
Romans live to eat, whether it’s family-style or in a sidewalk café. For an authentic taste of Cucina Romana, try carciofi alla Romana (braised artichokes) or spaghetti alla carbonara. Enjoy panino (stuffed sandwiches) or thin-crusted Roman pizza. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a scoop of gelato. Then finish the night with a glass of white wine from the surrounding Lazio region.
SHOPPING
Street stalls throughout the city are your best bet for souvenirs. Via Condotti offers a string of couture Italian designers. Browse artist studios along Via Margutta, or the indie artisan retailers of the Monti neighborhood. Porta Portese is the city’s largest flea market— and La Rinascente, the first department store.
INSIDER TIP
Conservative attire (no tank tops or shorts) is required when visiting Rome’s religious sites.
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INSIDER TIP