Greek Islands from the Corinth Canal to the Bosporus: 12 days Athens (Piraeus) to Athens (Piraeus)

Your cruise begins in the ancient Greek capital, Athens, a city that presents a remarkable blend of rich tradition and modern dynamism. Here, you will be transferred to your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht for the start of your unforgettable voyage.

Please book your flight to arrive into Athens prior to 04:00 PM.

Docked: 21:00

A narrow waterway that connects the Gulf of Corinth with the Saronic Gulf in Greece, the Corinth Canal is a 19th century feat of engineering. As your luxury yacht passes through this slender canal, you will appreciate the stunning views of the surrounding cliffs. After transiting the Corinth Canal, you will then visit the picturesque town of Itea, gateway to the ancient ruins of Delphi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its archaeological significance and marvellous vistas of the surrounding scenery. 

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Delphi (extra expense, must be pre-booked)
Enjoy an extraordinary journey from the picturesque town of Itea to the legendary sanctuary of Apollo, where the renowned oracle once spoke. Step into the rich history of Delphi as you explore the ancient Sanctuary of Apollo and the Delphi Museum, a treasure trove of antiquities that transport you back in time. 
Activity Level: Strenuous, Duration: 4 hours

Offshore: 14:00 - 19:00

Katakolon is a small seaside town located on the western coast of the Peloponnese peninsula, best known as the gateway to the ancient archaeological site of Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games. Arguably the most celebrated sacred place of Ancient Greece, at this UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, explore these important ruins, which include the Temple of Zeus and original Olympic stadium.

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Tour of Olympia (extra expense)
Step back in time at the legendary site of the first Olympic Games. This guided tour of Ancient Olympia brings to life the glory of classical Greece as you explore the ruins of the Temple of Zeus, the Temple of Hera, the ancient gymnasium, and the original Olympic stadium. Continue your journey at the Archaeological Museum of Olympia, home to a world-class collection of artifacts, including the famed Hermes of Praxiteles. From sacred temples to exquisite sculptures, this unforgettable tour offers a deep dive into one of history’s most iconic cultural and athletic landmarks.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 4 hours

Docked: 08:00 - 13:00

Welcome to Chania, a charming coastal town located on the northwest coast of the Greek island of Crete. Chania is known for its picturesque Venetian harbour, narrow winding streets, and vibrant atmosphere. The town boasts a rich history that is evident in its mix of architectural styles, including Venetian, Ottoman, and Greek influences. Here, you can enjoy a range of activities including relaxing on one of the beautiful beaches or exploring historical sites, such as ancient ruins and museums.

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Taste and tradition: organic olive olive tasting (extra expense)
Savor the essence of Crete with this immersive olive oil tasting experience. Visit a local estate where tradition meets innovation in the production of high-quality organic extra virgin olive oil. Discover time-honored cultivation methods alongside modern cold extraction techniques and explore the differences between an artisanal stone mill and a cutting-edge press. Your visit culminates in a guided tasting of four distinct olive oils—two varietals and two naturally infused—where you’ll learn to identify flavor profiles, aromas, and quality markers. A flavorful journey into one of Crete’s most treasured traditions.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 2.5 hours

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Guided visit of Chania and Botanical Gardens (extra expense)
Discover the rich history and natural beauty of Crete on this guided tour through charming Chania and its lush botanical gardens. Begin in the heart of Chania’s Old Town, where Venetian, Ottoman, and Greek influences shape the architecture and atmosphere. Stroll through the lively marketplace filled with local herbs, honey, and traditional products. After some free time to explore or shop, continue to the tranquil Botanical Park, where winding paths lead through vibrant displays of fruit trees, native herbs, and aromatic plants—offering a peaceful, sensory journey into Crete’s diverse flora.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 4.15 hours

EmeraldPLUS
Local folklore performance on board
Experience the heart and soul of Crete through a captivating onboard folklore performance. In this lively cultural showcase, four talented dancers will take you on a rhythmic journey through the island’s rich heritage. Dressed in traditional attire and accompanied by live music, they will perform a variety of authentic dances representing the vibrant spirit of Greek folk traditions. This one-hour performance promises a joyful, immersive atmosphere full of color, rhythm, and cultural charm—right from the comfort of your ship.
Event duration: 1 hour 

Offshore: 09:00 - 21:00

Known for its spectacular views, gleaming whitewashed architecture and legendary sunsets, Santorini is a hugely popular destination. This gorgeous Greek island is also famed for its iconic, blue-domed churches, transparent azure waters, and charming villages dramatically perched on cliffs overlooking the sea. Santorini’s picturesque main town, Fira, precariously rests on the edge of a caldera cliff, presenting jaw-dropping vistas of the Aegean Sea. Oia, another of Santorini’s traditional villages, is particularly renowned for its quaint narrow streets, stunning sunsets, and panoramic caldera views.

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Akrotiri, Oia and winery visit (extra expense)
Explore the remnants of the prehistoric city of Akrotiri, often hailed as the "Greek Pompeii," embark on a sensory journey at one of the most famous wineries, perched above the port of Athinios and overlooking the breathtaking Santorini caldera. Indulge in a wine-tasting experience, savouring the distinct flavours of Santorini's renowned wines. Conclude your adventure in the charming village of Oia, celebrated for its iconic whitewashed houses before arriving to Thira, the capital of the island.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 5.5 hours

Offshore: 08:00 - 22:00

A stunning Greek Island embedded in the beautiful Aegean Sea, Mykonos is world-famous for its beautiful beaches, and traditional, white-washed buildings set on hillsides. Mykonos is also known for its iconic and historic windmills, narrow cobblestone streets, and charming waterfront cafés and restaurants.

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Island tour of Mykonos, Ano Mera Monastery and wine tasting experience (extra expense)
Begin your adventure in the traditional village of Ano Mera and explore the 16th-century Monastery of Panagia Tourliani, dedicated to Mykonos' patron saint. Admire intricate icons depicting scenes from the New Testament and unravel the monastery's rich history. Indulge your senses in the flavours of Greece with a wine tasting experience at a Mykonian Farm. Conclude your tour in the iconic Mykonos town, a labyrinth of whitewashed buildings and narrow streets.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 4 hours

Offshore: 08:00 - 19:00

Along Turkey’s western Aegean coast, this beach resort town offers beautiful beaches, a lively, fun atmosphere and vibrant markets. Kusadasi is also a remarkable destination for history buffs, as it is  located near several ancient ruins, including the ancient city of Ephesus, today, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.  A visit here offers a glimpse into the grandeur and sophistication of one of the ancient world's most important cities.

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Guided tour of Ephesus (extra expense)
Embark on an extraordinary excursion to the legendary city of Ephesus, a treasure trove of ancient wonders and archaeological marvels that have stood the test of time. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Ephesus at a local cooperative. Witness a captivating folklore show performed by talented folk-dance students and indulge in a delectable array of local delicacies prepared with fresh, local ingredients.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 5.5 hours

Docked: 08:00 - 16:00

The Dardanelles is a stunning strait that connects the Aegean Sea to the Sea of Marmara, a small inland sea within the borders of Turkey. As you cruise through here, grasp the opportunity to learn all about the region's rich history, including its importance in various conflicts throughout the centuries, as well as take in breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Later, you will arrive in Kepez, which boasts a rich cultural heritage and historic sites such as the fascinating Old Town and Hadrian's Gate.

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The legendary city of Troy (extra expense)
Step into the epic world of myth and history with a visit to the legendary city of Troy. Discover the ruins that gave rise to Homer’s Iliad and learn how 19th-century excavations brought this ancient city to life. Walk among ancient walls, gates, and battlements as your guide shares the tale of the famed Trojan War and the iconic Wooden Horse. Then, visit the state-of-the-art Troy Museum, where captivating artifacts and immersive exhibits trace 5,000 years of history, bridging the cultures of East and West in unforgettable fashion.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 5 hours

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Guided tour of ANZAC cove and Gallipoli peninsula (extra expense)
Pay tribute to a pivotal chapter of World War I on this moving journey through the Gallipoli Peninsula. Begin at ANZAC Cove, where Australian and New Zealand troops landed in 1915, and explore the surrounding cemeteries and memorials that honor their sacrifice. Visit key sites such as Lone Pine, Beach Cemetery, and Chunuk Bair, where dramatic landscapes meet powerful history. Walk among preserved trenches and hear the compelling stories of courage, loss, and the legacy of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. This guided experience offers both reflection and insight into one of the most significant battlefields of the modern era.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 4.5 hours

Docked: 12:00 - 19:00

Today, you will get the chance to learn about the Turkish cultural heritage through architectural masterpieces and savour the strong culinary diversity in Istanbul.

Included Excursion
Blue Mosquee, Hagia Sophia and Grand Bazar 
Discover the timeless beauty and vibrant culture of Istanbul on this guided exploration of its most iconic landmarks. Begin at the historic Hippodrome, once the heart of Byzantine public life, before stepping inside the awe-inspiring Blue Mosque, famous for its brilliant blue Iznik tiles. Continue to the magnificent Hagia Sophia, a marvel of architecture and faith that has served as both cathedral and mosque over the centuries. Conclude your experience with a visit to the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s largest and oldest covered markets, where you can browse thousands of shops offering jewelry, carpets, spices, and souvenirs.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 5.15 hours

Docked: 11:00 - Overnight

Istanbul is a dynamic Turkish city drenched in history, the former capital of Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires. This rich history is reflected in the city's classic architecture, with iconic landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. Istanbul is also known for its vibrant markets, such as the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar, where you can enjoy shopping for local goods and sample traditional Turkish cuisine.

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Turkish baths experience (extra expense)
Step into a world of timeless relaxation at the historic Hurrem Sultan Hamam, a 16th-century masterpiece of Ottoman architecture. Commissioned by the powerful Roxelana, wife of Suleiman the Magnificent, this beautifully restored bathhouse offers a traditional Turkish bath experience in the heart of old Istanbul—just steps from the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. Enjoy the rejuvenating ritual of sauna, scrub, and massage, designed to cleanse the body and calm the mind, all in an authentic setting once reserved for royalty.
Activity Level: Easy, Duration: 3 hours

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Tour of Topkapi palace and Cisterns (extra expense)
Uncover the grandeur of Istanbul’s imperial past with a guided visit to the Topkapi Palace, once home to Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. Marvel at its opulent courtyards, ceremonial halls, and the intriguing Harem quarters. Then descend into the atmospheric Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground reservoir built by Emperor Justinian in the 6th century. Wander among rows of towering columns, including the mysterious Medusa heads, and experience the cool, shadowy beauty of this remarkable feat of Byzantine engineering.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 4 hours

Docked: Overnight - 18:00

Relish the nautical adventure of a lifetime with some relaxing downtime at sea. Enjoy the lavish comforts of your stylish yacht – slide into the infinity-style pool where the azure water seems to blur with the horizon, ascend to the Sky Deck to drink in panoramic views, or simply relax in the Observation Lounge.

Your luxurious yacht cruise concludes in the Greek capital, Athens, the birthplace of democracy and Western civilization, where you’ll be transferred to the airport for your return flight home or to continue your holiday. 

Please book your flight to depart out of Athens after 01:00 PM.

Docked: 08:00

*Please verify with the Shore Excursion Manager onboard whether a DiscoverMORE tour is available on disembarkation day. 

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Emerald Cruises cannot guarantee the cruise will operated unaltered from the itinerary states above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.