9 Night Mediterranean Highlights Cruise

9 Night Mediterranean Highlights Cruise on Voyager of the Seas from Athens, Piraeus, Greece Cartagena, Spain Lighthouse

The 9 Night Mediterranean Highlights Cruise from Athens, Piraeus, Greece visits Mykonos, Greece; Rhodes, Greece; Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey; Santorini, Greece; Sicily (Messina), Italy; Cartagena, Spain; Málaga, Spain. Explore our cruise itineraries and choose from a variety of rooms depending on your needs and budget. Start planning your next cruise vacation by selecting a destination and departure port.

Royal Caribbean Cruises

Priced from: $1278.5 per person 1 sailing dates available

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9 Night Mediterranean Highlights Cruise

Leaving from

Athens (Piraeus), Greece

Onboard

Voyager of the Seas

Day	Port
1	Athens (Piraeus), Greece Departs at 5:00 PM
2	Mykonos, Greece Tendered from 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
3	Rhodes, Greece From 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
4	Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey From 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
5	Santorini, Greece Tendered from 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM
6	Cruising Day at sea
7	Sicily (Messina), Italy From 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
8	Cruising Day at sea
9	Cartagena, Spain From 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
10	Málaga, Spain Arrives at 6:00 AM
	*Port sequence may vary by sailing date.

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Your ship Voyager of the Seas

Your ship

Voyager of the Seas

DISCOVER ADVENTURE ON EVERY DECK

Raise the thrill factor on the Rock Climbing Wall and hang ten on FlowRider®. Lace up your skates and put your adventure on ice, or tee up for a game of mini golf. This is your epic getaway, and you decide how to seize the day.

Typhoon℠ and Cyclone℠

Grab your bravest friend and challenge them to a test of speed. The ride of your life awaits on twin racers Typhoon℠ and Cyclone℠ — part of The Perfect Storm℠, the boldest waterslides at sea. As you speed through, long, translucent stretches offer sea views as exhilarating as the ride itself.

Wonder of the Seas Teens Enjoying Social 100

Teen Spaces

Let’s face it, teens want the freedom to choose how they spend their time onboard. Now, 13 to 17-year-olds get an exclusive new lounge to call their own with music, movies, gaming — and even an outdoor patio hangout.

FlowRider^®

Grab your board and get ready for 30,000 gallons of rushing awesome headed your way. The surf’s always up on the 40-foot-long FlowRider® surf simulator.

Adventure Ocean^®

It’s time to play outside the lines — the award-winning Adventure Ocean® is being totally reimagined. With wide open play places and dedicated spaces for all types of interactive activities, including head-to-head challenges, techy crafts and more, kids can choose their own immersive adventure.

GOURMET GLOBETROTTING

This is one epicurean adventure your taste buds will thank you for. Savor sizzling steaks at Chops Grille℠, or indulge in a five-course foodie feast at Chef's Table. Fresh-rolled sushi awaits at Izumi, and family-style favorites will satisfy your cravings at Giovanni's Table.

Chops Grille℠

For more than a decade, the chefs at Chops Grille have specialized in serving up quality, hand-cut meat. Dinner at this hallmark Royal Caribbean specialty restaurant goes far beyond the typical steakhouse experience, though, with reimagined classics like succulent Maine lobster, gruyere cheese tater tots, white truffle-scented mushroom soup, and of course, expertly prepared prime beef.

Giovanni's Table

Every meal at Giovanni’s Table is a family-style celebration of rustic Italian flavor. You’ll find all your favorite Old-World classics on the menu here, like house focaccia served with marinated artichokes, olives and pesto, fluffy gnocchi tossed in a thyme-scented sauce of lamb and root vegetables, traditional risotto finished with porcini and truffle mushroom tapenade, and veal osso buco paired with creamy cheese polenta, ripe tomatoes and sautéed green beans.

Izumi

From delicious sushi rolls to fresh sashimi and nigiri, Izumi serves up an exotic Asian-inspired dining experience. Savor izakaya-style appetizers and rolls that range from classic to imaginative. No matter what you order, you’re in for a far out, Far East feast filled with incredible flavors from Tohoku to Tokyo.

Chef's Table

Welcome to Chef’s Table, the most exclusive and elevated dining experience on our fleet. Join an intimate group of fellow foodies on a private epicurean journey led by the ship’s Chef de Cuisine. You’ll sit down to a white tablecloth dinner spotlighting five exquisite courses that range from scallop carpaccio with yuzu vinaigrette, to grilled filet mignon served with truffle potato puree — each expertly paired with the perfect wine to highlight every flavor on the menu.

SHOWS THAT HIT EVERY HIGH NOTE

Settle in for a show filled with songs from classic movies in Music in Pictures, and wander down the Great White Way in Broadway Rhythm & Rhyme. On this ship, every act is epic.

Rhythm and Rhyme Cruise Show, Dancers on Stage, Grandeur of the Seas — Dancers on stage during Rhythm and Rhyme Cruise Show on Grandeur of the Seas

Broadway Rhythm & Rhyme

Sing along with your favorite show tunes as the rhythm, rhyme, words and music of Broadway transport you to NYC.

Live bands

Pick the genre you please and you're likely to find a band of talented musicians onboard to match, from live jazz to cover bands, quartets, Latin, and acoustic performers across the fleet nightly.

Ice Skating Shows

Royal Caribbean is the first and only cruise line with ice-skating rinks right onboard, plus complimentary ice spectaculars with amazing jumps, lifts, and spins performed by professional skaters .

Schooner Bar

Wrap up your night at Schooner Bar, where perfectly mixed cocktails and live entertainment come together in a warm-lit nautical-themed lounge. Cozy up in a seat under the mast, by the portholes, or right by the gleaming grand piano. The sing-along's about to begin.

Day 1: Athens, Greece

Day 1

Athens

Piraeus, Greece

Athens offers a looking glass back in time into Greece's powerful ancient civilization. Art lovers, epicureans and history buffs will be delighted by the ancient ruins, museums and tavernas of this picturesque town. Just 10 minutes from the port, you'll find the Archaeological Museum of Piraeus, filled with sculptures from the Bronze Age to the Romans. Walk to the Zea Harbour to discover how the Hellenic Maritime Museum will bring to life the grandeur of ancient Greece's naval capacities. Jump onboard an Athens cruise and relax at the small harbor of Mikrolimano, enjoying a meal of grilled octopus and chilled white wine at a small restaurant overlooking the sea.

Athens (Piraeus), Greece, Agia Triada Church — The Agia Triada church in Greece

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.

Athens (Piraeus), Greece, Mikrolimano Harbour — Mikrolimano harbour in Greece

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.

Athens (Piraeus), Greece, Parthenon — View of the Parthenon in Athens, Greece

Athens (Piraeus), Greece. Decorative Vases — Various decorative Greek vases

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.

Athens (Piraeus), Greece, Herodes Theater — Herodes Theater in Athens, Greece

Athens (Piraeus), Greece, Grilled Octopus — Grilled octopus on a white plate with a lemon on the side

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.

Athens (Piraeus), Greece, Greek Souvenirs — An assortment of Greek souvenirs such as helmets and sculptures

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.

Day 2: Mykonos, Greece

Day 2

Mykonos

Greece

Nestled in the heart of Greece’s Cyclades archipelago, Mykonos pulses with irrepressible energy. With its powder white houses, sparkling blue waters, and red-hot nightlife, The Island of the Winds is as colorful as the people who call the island home. You can walk narrow marble pathways laced with purple bougainvillea blooms, or go cycling on two wheels past off-the-path Ano Mera village. Explore Greece’s maritime history at Armenistis Lighthouse, and check out the Folklore Museum’s Mykonian ship models. Join in the raucous beach party on Super Paradise’s shimmering sands, or watch the sun burn out beyond an Aegean horizon from an open-air seaside taverna.

Amazing experiences coming soon.

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Mykonos, Greece Panagia Paraportiani — A beautiful old white chapel, the Panagia Paraportiani Church, in Mykonos, Greece

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.

Insider tip

Hop on one of the many seawater-taxi services around the island for transport to the beaches.

Mykonos, Greece Agios Stefanos Beach — Agios Stefanos Beach in Mykonos, Greece

INTO THE BLUE

The multihued 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.

Insider tip

With frequent openings and closings, listen to locals and other travelers to find the island’s best restaurants.

Mykonos, Greece Isis Temple Delos — The Temple of Isis in archaeological site of Delos island, Mykonos, Greece

DIG UP THE PAST

Enjoy a short boat trip to the island of Delos, a sacred Greek archeological site and the mythological birthplace of twin gods Apollo and Artemis. Comb the crumbling ruins of its ancient theater, Doric temples, markets, and mosaic-laced houses— plus the Terrace of Lions statues and amphitheater.

Mykonos, Greece Windmills Sunset — Famous windmills during sunset in Mykonos, Greece

Mykonos, Greece Greek Salad — Greek salad and olive oil on sunny seaside restaurant in Mykonos, Greece

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).

Mykonos, Greece White Blue Street — A street of white buildings with blue accents in Mykonos, Greece

Mykonos, Greece Souvenirs — Souvenirs hanging on a wall outside a shop, Mykonos, Greece

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 jewelry 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.

Day 3: Rhodes, Greece

Day 3

Rhodes

Greece

The Colossus might not be standing anymore, but the Greek island of Rhodes still delivers beauty and allure on a giant scale. The island instantly greets you with serene white-sand beaches and wide-open blue skies. See the site in the harbor where the now-destroyed wonder of the ancient world once stood. Then, head to the Old Town, surrounded by medieval walls and seven ancient gates. Don't miss the Palace of the Grandmaster, with its mosaic floors dating from Hellenic, Roman and early Christian times. Shop for a colorful menagerie of seashells by the shoreline — and don't forget to spend some time relaxing beside the translucent blue waves with your Greece cruise.

Amazing experiences coming soon.

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Rhodes, Greece, Ruins — Ancient ruins in Rhodes, Greece

Colossal History

The site where the Colossus once stood is a momentary stop, but Rhodes offers plenty of other history. Ascend the Acropolis of Rhode, which rises above the port. Or stroll through the scenic Old Town, where you can climb the clock tower for a bird's-eye view of the city.

Insider tip

Don't be fooled by how small Rhodes looks on the map. Put fewer items on your itinerary rather than more to avoid missing your boat.

Rhodes, Greece, Filerimos Monastery — Filerimos monastery in Rhodes, Greece

Monestary on the Mount

Take the 20-minute drive to Phileremos. It's a moderately difficult hike to scale the hill here. At the summit, you'll encounter a priceless panorama and a peaceful monastery lined with cypress trees.

Insider tip

It might seem tempting to rent a car if you want to explore the outer reaches of Rhodes, but since driving and parking within the city are highly regulated, a taxi is a better bet.

Rhodes, Greece, Panoramic view of Lindos Bay — View of Lindos Bay in Greece

Land Meets Sea

If you're up for an excursion, hail a cab to Lindos Bay. Here, with your Greece cruise, you'll find the perfect balance of idyllic scenery and convenience — it's less than an hour drive each way from the port.

Rhodes, Greece, Lindos ancient columns — Ancient columns at Lindos in Rhodes, Greece

Rhodes, Greece, Baked Sea Bass — A baked sea bass filet with a side of rice

Local Cuisine

If seafood is your thing, you've come to the right place. Some of Rhodes' specialities include stuffed clams shells, grilled sea bass and squid, served grilled or fried. For dessert, try tangy local feta drizzled with sweet honey and topped with crunchy sesame seeds. Cruise to Greece and stick around the harbor at the northern tip of the island for seaside dining.

Rhodes, Greece, Ruins of a church in Monolithos Castle — The ruins of a church in Monolithos Castle in Rhodes, Greece

Shopping

The most scenic spots to shop in Rhodes are the many boats parked along the sides of the port, where you can pick up colorful sea shells to bring back home. Once you're done here, visit Labryinthos Arts and Crafts to browse creations by local artists.

Day 4: Ephesus, Turkey

Day 4

Ephesus

Kusadasi, Turkey

The UNESCO World Heritage ruins of Ephesus impress even those familiar with the world's other ancient cities. Though excavations have been underway for 150 years, only 20 percent of the city has been uncovered. Check out the the Celsus Library — built in 117 A.D., the site is made up of towering columns highlighted by the statue of the goddess of wisdom. Cruises to Ephesus will give you a taste of Turkish life by strolling the seafront promenade and the bustling city center. Walk Marble Street, paved with actual marble slabs, which takes you from downtown to the Temple of Artemis — you can still see one lone remaining column from this wonder of the ancient world.

Amazing experiences coming soon.

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Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey, Library of Celsus — A close up view of the Library of Celsus in Ephesus, Turkey

Window Into Ancient Life

Don't miss the Library of Celsus or the Scholastica Baths — their dozen ancient marble toilets are a unique sight from antiquity. Consider buying the extra ticket to see Ephesus' Terraced Houses. Not only are they shaded, but you get a sense of what ancient life was like and can see the restoration work in progress.

Insider tip

Ephesus' excavated section is in a 1.5-square-mile area; you'll need good walking shoes.

Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey, Home of the Virgin Mary — The home of the Virgin Mary in Ephesus, Turkey

Set Your Sights on Selcuk

Walk from Ephesus' Lower Gate to the village of Selcuk, where you can visit what's said to be the burial site of John the Apostle at the Basilica of St. John. You'll also find the remains of the Temple of Artemis. About five miles from here lies the House of the Virgin Mary, which traditions holds as the last place she lived.

Insider tip

The sun reflects strongly both from above and off the white marble streets. Bring a hat, sunscreen and plenty of water.

Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey, Homemade Carpets — Homemade carpets on a cart

Haggle for a Turkish Carpet

Stroll the seaside promenade in Kusadasi to catch a cooling breeze. Shop for souvenirs like carpets and spices in the bazaar near the port. Vendors will encourage you to sample their wares and will offer tea to serious carpet buyers. You can also visit Pigeon Island for views from the Byzantine castle once used by pirates during your Turkey cruise.

Insider tip

When negotiating in the market, make sure you're serious about buying — it's considered rude to bargain for items you're not going to buy.

Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey, Lamb Kebob — Two lamb kebobs on a black plate

Local Cuisine

Most visitors will have tried sis kebab (grilled meat on a skewer) and doner kebab (meat shaved from a vertical skewer) before arriving in Turkey. Lamb is popular for both. Be sure to try kofte, spiced lamb or beef meatballs served with yogurt dipping sauce. Have a few meze (appetizers) to get your vegetable fix — great options include grilled eggplant salad and cicek dolmasi, fried squash flowers stuffed with raisins and rice.

Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey, Ancient Amphitheater — An ancient amphitheater in Ephesus, Turkey

Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey, Colorful Pottery — An assortment of colorful pottery in Turkey

Shopping

The Kusadasi bazaar is naturally the place to go for shopping. A Turkish blue eye, meant to ward off the evil eye, makes a great souvenir. Also consider a traditional Turkish kilim (a woven carpet) or a more luxurious knotted carpet. Cruise to Ephesus and look for handmade tiles and pottery in the Iznik design, with floral-inspired geometric patterns. Prices are negotiable, and the first offer by the vendor will be at least double what you should pay.

Day 5: Santorini, Greece

Day 5

Santorini

Greece

Santorini is one of the world’s most popular islands, known best for its dramatic scenery, whitewashed villages and fiery volcanic activity. Here adventure bubbles above the Aegean Sea in the most bold and breathtaking ways. A cable car takes you to the capital of Fira, a bustling cliff-top town awash with old cathedrals, enthralling museum collections and cozy tavernas. Venture to the coast for a swim in the deep blue waters that lap red and black pebbled beaches. And peel back layers of lava and history among excavated Akrotiri. Whether it’s by bicycle, ATV or on your own two feet, exploring this Cyclades isle never fails to impress.

Amazing experiences coming soon.

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Santorini, Greece Volcano — Nea Kameni volcanic island in Santorini, Greece

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 center of the Santorini caldera, to see its smoking craters. Then soak in the soothing hot springs of Palea Kameni.

Insider tip

Wear hiking boots or comfortable sneakers and plenty of sunscreen when hiking the caldera.

Santorini, Greece Byzantine Castle Ruins — Early morning in Byzantine Castle Ruins in Oia village, Santorini, Greece

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.

Insider tip

Don’t be in a rush— dining in Greece is a laid-back, drawn-out affair.

Santorini, Greece Grapes Vineyard — Bunch of white grapes in the vineyard in the Wine Museum of Thira, Santorini, Greece

THE GLASS HALF FULL

Indulge your taste buds in a delectable tasting journey among the island’s traditional wine cellars. Vineyards dapple Santorini’s countryside, and many are among 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.

Santorini, Greece Terrace Flowers — View of the sea from a beautiful terrace with flowers in Santorini, Greece

Santorini, Greece Raki — Alcohol drink Raki with anis on wooden board in Santorini, Greece

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 eggplant included. Try egg-based sfougato and fried tomatokeftedes fritters, two Santorini specialties. Pick up melitinia cookies from a local bakery. And for an after-dinner drink, sip unsweetened, anise-flavored raki.

Santorini, Greece Fishing Boats — Beautiful landscape of two fishing boats anchored in blue water at the old port in Oia, Santorini, Greece

Santorini, Greece Small white and blue houses — Small white and blue house souvenirs in Santorini, Greece

SHOPPING

Ypapantis Street in Fira is known for its dozens of jewelry 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.