Mumbai to Athens (Piraeus)

A vibrant city of color and chaos, Mumbai, formerly known as Bombay, is a striking collision of contrasts and culture. Known as the City of Dreams, it serves as an economic powerhouse, a fashion hub, and the heart of Bollywood’s glamorous world. Mumbai exposes both extreme poverty in sprawling slums and unimaginable wealth in the opulence of the world’s most expensive private residence.

A city rich with cultural experiences and UNESCO World Heritage sites, Mumbai invites visitors to dive in and explore India’s extraordinary heritage. The Gateway of India, completed in 1924, symbolized the entrance to British India, and the last British troops passed through it in 1948 as the city embraced independence. Explore remnants of colonial history in Colaba, including art deco buildings and the magnificent High Victorian Gothic Chhatrapati Shivaji Railway Terminus.

A short ferry ride from Mumbai Harbor leads to the carved 7th-century Elephanta Caves, another World Heritage Site. Dharavi, Asia’s largest slum and one of the most densely populated areas globally, offers a unique and eye-opening experience. Guided tours provide insight into daily life, including visits to local artisans crafting pottery and textiles.

Elsewhere, visit the house where Gandhi lived, now a museum honoring his life and work. Mumbai’s extremes of wealth, history, and culture combine to create an unforgettable, immersive experience.

Days at sea provide the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind, and catch up on personal pursuits. Spend time at the gym, visit the spa, watch for whales, enjoy reading, or simply soak up the sun. These tranquil sea days offer a refreshing balance to busy days exploring shoreside destinations.

Oman’s capital rests overlooking the coast of the Gulf of Oman, tucked away among the country’s mountains. Discover a city surrounded by neat gardens - with streets lined by palm trees and crumbling Portuguese forts providing a tangible link to the past. Explore an elegant array of domes, minarets, and marbled Arabic archways, as you’re immersed in a city where a traditional conservative outlook mingles with a pragmatic modern approach. Despite a relative boom in recent years, Muscat has clung to its old-world Arabian charm. Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is the main mosque and an iconic landmark of Muscat. No fewer than 20,000 people cram inside below its towering minaret, which soars upwards for a stunning 90 meters. In the evening, lights shine on the exterior, and the dome glows like a mirage floating above the city’s rooftops. White and grey marble gleams inside, and you won’t miss the showpiece chandelier - which weighs in at a staggering eight tons. The handwoven carpet is no less impressive, created using 1.7 million knots. The Mutrah area is rich in local culture. Wander among the groaning tables of the lively fish market and busy Mutrah souk. Mutrah Fort was constructed during the Portuguese occupation of the 16th century and offers views back down over the harbor. Things can get a little sticky in this humid climate, so head to the beach to enjoy a gentle breeze and unwind. Nearby, you’ll find plenty of indulgent stretches of soft sand, met by pristine water. Swim with fish and turtles or relax below the palm trees. Or take a cruise to spot spinner dolphins playing in the waters offshore.

4 Included Shore Excursions
Splendors of Muscat

• Activity Level - Moderate
• Please note:  This tour requires a moderate amount of walking for approximately 546 Yards (500 metres) in the old town and approximately 15 steps at the Grand Mosque, museum and souq.  It is not suitable for guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests with limited mobility may need the assistance of their travel partner. The visit to the mosque requires both ladies and gentlemen to have their legs and ankles totally covered and wear long sleeve shirts/blouses. Tattoos on the body to be covered totally. Ladies also need to bring a scarf to cover their head. Shoes must be removed at the entrance to the mosque; bring socks for comfort. Any food, drinks, and smoking are strictly prohibited at the Grand Mosque. Entrance to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is not possible during Muslim Holiday observance, Fridays and daily in the afternoon. An outside stop is substituted at these times. Photography is not permitted inside National Museum. The tour sequence may vary. Bring local currency for any purchases.

Traditional Dhow Cruise

• Activity Level - Minimal
• Please note: This tour requires a minimal amount of walking for approximately 273 yards (250 meters), with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and 5-6 steps throughout the tour.  Care must be taken on the narrow wooden stairs to board the dhow and when embarking/disembarking the boats; guests must be agile and have good balance to participate. This tour is not suitable for guests who utilize a wheelchair. While the coaches are air-conditioned, there is no artificial cooling on the boats. The operation of this tour is subject to weather and sea conditions. Those who suffer from motion sickness should take precautions in advance. The dhow operates under power; sail may be utilized. There are facilities on board the dhow. It is recommended to wear sun protection. Do not take photographs of individuals without their permission. Women do not like being photographed. It is forbidden to take pictures of military facilities, borders, and airports. Please observe 'NO PHOTOGRAPHY' signs. Guests may ccess the water directly from the Dhow through a 5 steps ladder.

National Museum & Muttrah Souq

• Activity Level - Minimal
• Please note: This tour requires a minimal to moderate amount of walking for approximately 437 yards (400 meters), with about a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and about 10 steps throughout the tour. Walking in the old town is at guest's discretion. This tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility and who utilize a wheelchair. However guests must be able to negotiate a few steps to get on/off the coach. Please observe 'NO PHOTOGRAPHY' signs. This tour is not available on Fridays in the morning due to the closure of the National Museum. Space is limited; pre-reserving is recommended to avoid any disappointment.

Muscat Architecture Walking Tour

• Activity Level - Moderate
• Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 0.6 miles (about one kilometres), at times over uneven and cobblestone surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and many steps at the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Royal Opera House, and a few shops in the Muttrah Souq. Walking at the Muttrah Souq is at the discretion of each guest. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes. Proper attire is required to enter the mosques; guests must wear modest clothing that covers arms and legs; women guests should cover also the head, including the hair. Tattoos must be completely covered before entering the mosques. Food, drinks, and smoking are strictly prohibited inside the mosques. Slip-on shoes are recommended, as guests are required to remove their shoes before entering the mosques. It is suggested to bring along a pair of socks for added comfort. Entrance to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is not possible during Muslim Holiday observance, on Fridays, and daily in the afternoon; an outside stop is substituted at these times. The tour sequence may vary.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind, and catch up with what you've been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale-watching, catching up on your reading, or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shoreside.

Combining thrilling history with gorgeous beaches and luxury spas, Oman’s second-biggest city is cradled by tempting ocean waters and the soaring Dhofar Mountains. A refreshing rainy season waters down the intense heat of the Gulf region, painting a rich green hue across the land and separating it from the barren desert elsewhere. Banana plantations sprawl out, and dense gatherings of coconut palms rustle together, before Salalah's cherished powdery white beaches. Sweet fragrances linger in Salalah's souqs, where exotic incense, perfumes, and spices are traded. Set in Dhofar province, the desert staging is smudged with greenery and life during the downpours and misty rains of Khareef season. The clouds tame the heat and fuel stunning waterfall torrents, with a local festival celebrating the arrival of this monsoon each year. Even in drier months, the earlier deluges ensure that there is an added vibrancy to the ravines and wadis nearby. Enjoy the sunshine and settle into the sandy embrace of luxury beaches, before indulging in stress-relieving massages. Head to popular spots like Al Mughsail beach, where explosive blowholes boom with frothing spray, as the waters collide with coastal rock formations. Travel back in time at the UNESCO World Heritage Site-listed ancient city of Dhufa - which has been reclaimed from the rusty desert soil at Al Baleed Archeological Park. An ancient center of frankincense trade, the on-site museum explains the history of this precious ingredient, extracted from the region's fragrant Boswellia trees and exported far and wide.

3 Included Shore Excursions
Salalah on Your Own Exploration

• Activity Level - Minimal
• Please Note: This tour requires a minimal amount of activity and walking is at the discretion of the guest. Please dress conservatively when going ashore. Beach wear is not considered appropriate attire. Women should not wear anything revealing, including miniskirts, shorts, sleeveless or low-cut tops. Men should always wear a shirt in public. Please do not photograph people without their permission, especially women, who are greatly offended. You may not take pictures of government buildings, embassies or anything military in nature, including airports. Most shops and souqs are closed between 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. The local currency is the Omani rial. Many businesses and venues are closed on Fridays.

Amazing Salalah

• Acitivity Level - Moderate
• Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 0.6 miles (about one kilometre), at times over uneven, natural, and cobblestone surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and access the shoppes at the New Salalah Souk, and five steps at the Salalah Grand Mosque. Walking at the New Salalah Souk is at the discretion of each guest. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, insect repellent, bottled water, and US Dollars, local currency, or credit cards for purchases from the ship; few shops accept credit cards. Because of the differences in temperature between the air-conditioned vehicles and outside, it is recommended that you bring along a light cotton jumper (sweater or light jacket). Proper attire is required to enter the mosque; women must wear modest clothing that covers the entire body and bring a scarf that covers the head and hair. Arms and legs must be covered to the wrists and ankles. Men must wear modest clothing befitting the sanctity of the Salalah Grand Mosque. Tattoos must be completely covered before entering the Salalah Grand Mosque. Shorts, transparent, or see-through clothing, shorts and skirts, sleeveless shirts, clothing with profanity, tight clothing, swimwear, and beachwear are not permitted inside the Salalah Grand Mosque. Food, drinks, and smoking are strictly prohibited inside the Salalah Grand Mosque. Slip-on shoes are recommended, as guests are required to remove their shoes before entering the Salalah Grand Mosque; it is suggested to bring along a pair of thick socks, because the pavement may be hot. Guests must be at least four years old to participate on this tour; minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over 18 years old to participate on this tour. Do not take photographs of local individuals without their permission. Women do not like being photographed. Observe 'No Photography' signs. The Salalah Grand Mosque is closed on Fridays, National Holidays, and VIP visits. The New Salalah Souk is closed on Friday mornings; the site is visited from the outside only. Be advised that wildlife, while common, is not guaranteed. The tour sequence may vary. During the Ramadan time the Grand Mosque is closed, and guests visit it only from the outside.

The Frankincense Trail

• Activity Level - Moderate
• Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 900 yards (822 meters) over rough, uneven ground at the archaeological site and with 35 steps at Mughsail Beach. It is not recommended for guests utilizing a wheelchair or those with limited mobility. Air conditioning cannot be guaranteed. It is suggested you wear sturdy walking shoes. Shorts, beachwear, and sleeveless shirts are not permitted. The order of sites seen or visited may vary. It is forbidden to take pictures of military facilities, borders and airports; observe the "NO PHOTOGRAPHY" signs.Sighting of the now rare frankincense trees cannot be guaranteed. Souvenir shops accept cash in US Dollars or local currency. Credit cards are mostly not accepted.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind, and catch up with what you've been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale-watching, catching up on your reading, or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shoreside.

The principal gateway to Mecca, Jeddah’s spiritual roots are very deep. Eve, the mother of mankind, is said to be buried in the city center (although skeptics claim there is no actual proof), while archeological excavations in the old city suggest evidence of pre-Islam (700 BC) activity. Regrettably only scant vestiges of historical Jeddah remain, a reason why UNESCO deemed the city a World Heritage Site in 2014. An interesting by-product of Jeddah’s location as a major port on the Red Sea and proximity to Mecca (around 100 km) is that Muslims from all over the world flock to the city. This has given Jeddah a very cosmopolitan feel, unlike other parts of Saudi Arabia. The 19th-century Red Sea architecture is unique in its kind. Beachside, the city offers much. Jeddha’s dive sites are among the best in the world while the laid-back approach is appealing to Westerners. However, while the city might well be more open than other ports in the Kingdom, it is still Saudi Arabia, and when in doubt, visitors – especially women – should err on the side of modesty when it comes to beach wear. Traditionally, the city is rich. The souk in the heart of the old town is, of course, a must-see during your visit, offering everything from amazing architecture to bargains galore. The area is also home to the oldest mosque in Jeddah, built in the 17th century (but renovated in 2012). Local delicacies range from fabulously fresh seafood to the ubiquitous kebab, so foodies have much to tease their palettes with.

3 Included Shore Excursions
Corniche Discovery

• Activity Level - Minimal
• Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 547 yards (about 500 meters), at times over uneven and cobblestone surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and at the sites visited. Walking at the souk is at the discretion of each guest. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, insect repellent, bottled water, and Saudi Arabian Riyals or credit cards for purchases from the ship. Please dress conservatively when going ashore; women always need to keep their knees covered. Proper attire is required to enter holy or religious sites; shorts and bare shoulders are not permitted. As a rule, women should never wear anything remotely revealing (miniskirts, shorts, capris, beachwear, and sleeveless or low-cut tops), and men should always wear shirts and trousers in public. Infrastructure in Jeddah may be basic, and local conditions may be challenging; coaches, guides, hotels, restaurants, equipment, and services are the best-available in the area, but may not be up to the standards of those found at other ports. Therefore, flexibility and understanding are encouraged when visiting unique, less touristic destinations, where vehicles and guides are brought in from across the region. Local authorities might check again your passport, as well as the border number you received at the entrance in the country during the excursion; this might require some waiting time.  This tour does not include inside visits to the mosques. The tour sequence may vary.

Taste of Jeddah

• Activity Level - Moderate
• Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 2 Kilometers (about 1.2 miles), at times over uneven and cobblestone surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and at the sites visited. Walking at the Souk is at the discretion of each guest. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, insect repellent, bottled water, and Saudi Arabian Riyals or credit cards for purchases from the ship. Women should dress conservatively and keep their knees covered when going ashore. Proper attire is required to enter holy or religious sites; shorts and bare shoulders are not permitted. As a rule, women should never wear anything remotely revealing (miniskirts, shorts, capris, beachwear, and sleeveless or low-cut tops), and men should always wear shirts and trousers in public. Infrastructure in Jeddah may be basic, and local conditions may be challenging; coaches, guides, hotels, restaurants, equipment, and services are the best-available in the area, but may not be up to the standards of those found at other ports. Therefore, flexibility and understanding are encouraged when exploring unique, less touristic destinations, as vehicles and guides are sourced from across the region. Local authorities might check again your passport, as well as the border number you received at the entrance in the country during the excursion; this might require some waiting time.  This tour does not operate on Fridays. This tour does not include inside visits to the mosques. During Ramadan's month, this tour is conducted in the afternoon/evening. The tour sequence may vary.

Cultural Jeddah

• Activity Level - Moderate
• Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately 1.24 miles (about two kilometers), at times over uneven and cobblestone surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and 20-30 steps at the historical houses visited. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilize a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, insect repellent, bottled water, and Saudi Arabian Riyals or credit cards for purchases from the ship. Please dress conservatively when going ashore; ladies must keep their knees covered. Proper attire is required to enter holy or religious sites; shorts and bare shoulders are not permitted. As a rule, women should never wear anything remotely revealing (miniskirts, shorts, capris, beachwear, and sleeveless or low-cut tops), and men should always wear shirts and trousers in public. Infrastructure in Jeddah may be basic, and local conditions may be challenging; coaches, guides, hotels, restaurants, equipment, and services are the best-available in the area, but may not be up to the standards of those found at other ports. Therefore, flexibility and understanding are encouraged when visiting unique, less touristic destinations. Local authorities might check again your passport, as well as the border number you received at the entrance in the country during the excursion; this might require some waiting time. This tour does not include inside visits to the mosques. The tour sequence may vary.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind, and catch up with what you've been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale-watching, catching up on your reading, or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shoreside.

Unravel the mysteries, and marvel at the artistry and scale, of some of Ancient Egypt's most important and impressive monuments, which rise from the fertile plains and palm groves of the River Nile. Safaga’s port sits on the Red Sea's dazzling coastline, where gorgeous beaches and super waters for diving and snorkeling await. Unwind here, amid the colorful fish life, or lie back to soak in ever-reliable sunshine. Most choose to head inland to the banks of one of the world’s longest and most storied rivers - where the immense treasures of Ancient Egypt loom in the desert's haze. Modern Luxor rests beside the Nile and is set amid an unparalleled archaeological site of swirling legend and ancient beauty. This vast, open-air museum sprawls out below the burning sun, and you'll discover preserved ancient tombs, momentous statues like the Colossi of Memnon, and vast columned temples with rows of statues, such as the Temple of Karnak. Soak in the surroundings on boats, which meander up and down the river, or head out to tick off as many of the remarkable ruins as you can. Cultural treasures like the World Heritage Site listed Valley of the Kings – carved into the copper rock of the desert – provided elaborate resting places for Ancient Egypt's revered Pharaohs. Built between the 16th and 11th centuries BC, no fewer than 63 temples have been discovered here so far. Head into incredibly preserved tombs, decorated with majestic and mystical symbols and colorful artworks. See famous sites like the cursed tomb of King Tutankhamun, and the imposing rise of Queen Hatshepsut's temple, amid the countless highlights and wonders.

4 Included Shore Excursions
Aquascope Semi-Submarine

• Activity Level - Minimal
• Please Note: This tour requires a minimal amount of walking for approximately 200 metres (219 yards) with a few steps to manage inside the Aquascope to access the upper deck. This tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility and those who utilize a wheelchair however guests must be able to get in/out of the vehicle and Aquascope on their own or with the assistance of their travelling companion. Only foldable wheelchairs, scooters and walkers can be accommodated on the coach; however the Aquascope is not wheelchair accessible. This tour is not recommended for guests who suffer from claustrophobia. Total time on the Aquascope is 1.5 hours. Lightweight, comfortable clothing, flat, rubber-soled shoes and sun protection are recommended.

Soma Bay Resort

• Activity Level - Minimal
• Please note: This tour requires a minimal amount of walking for approximately 200 metres (656 feet) with a few steps to negotiate at the resort and is suitable for guests with limited mobility and those who utilise a wheelchair, however guests must be able to get in/our of the coach on their own or with the assistance of their travelling companion. Foldable wheelchairs, scooters and walkers can be accommodated and guests can enjoy the pool area near the beach. Tour includes round-trip coach transportation, admission to and use of the hotel's facilities. Food, beverages and the rental of water sports equipment are at guests' own expense. It is recommended for guests to wear light, comfortable clothing with their bathing suits underneath, hat, sunglasses, sunblock and water from the ship. Towels are provided at the resort. One soft drink is included on a complimentary basis. Additional beverages can be purchased at the resort bar, at guests own expense. This tour requires a minimum participation in order to operate and may be cancelled if it is not met, however private arrangements can then be made at an additional cost.

Explore the Bedouin Life by 4X4

• Activity Level - Extensive
• Please note: This tour requires a moderate amount of walking; however, a portion of the drive is on unpaved, bumpy roads, and guests must get on/off the Jeep from the back door, as the vehicle has no side doors. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility, back and/or neck problems, or those who utilize a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing, flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Bottled water is provided on the Jeeps. Cameras and videotaping are permitted. Guide(s) accompany tour, providing explanations at the stops; each vehicle does not have its own separate guide. Jeeps seat 4-6 guests comfortably. Please note the driving through the desert/sand has to be done at a certain speed in order to ensure that the vehicles are not getting trapped in the sand. The drivers are professionals and well aware of the challenges of driving in the desert.

The Temple of Dendara

• Activity Level - Moderate
• Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 0.6 miles (about one kilometre), at times over uneven and natural surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach. This tour is not suitable for guests prone to motion sickness, guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe and soft-soled walking shoes, and bring sun protection, insect repellent, a sweater or light jacket, bottled water, and local currency or credit cards for purchases from the ship; bringing a small amount of cash for tipping is suggested. Minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over 18 years old to participate on this tour. Guests must be at least 18 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. Guests must carry their passports and ship’s ID at all times. Infrastructure in Egypt may be basic, and local conditions may be challenging; coaches, guides, hotels, restaurants, equipment, and services are the best-available in the area, but may not be up to the standards of those found on other ports. Therefore, flexibility and understanding are encouraged when visiting unique, less touristic destinations. The cost of providing a tour programme in this area is proportionately more expensive than in neighbouring regions, as vehicles and guides are brought in from the whole region. This may be reflected in the prices of the tours, and thank you for your understanding. For your added safety and protection, please leave jewellery, valuables, and large amounts of cash on board the ship. Guests should be respectful towards local sentiments and customs. This tour is available during mornings only, as the Temple of Dendera closes at 5:00 p.m. The driving time between the pier and Dendera Temple is approximately 2.25 hours in each direction. The tour sequence, timings, and itinerary are subject to change without prior notice.

Ain Sukhna is where people come to unwind and have always done so. The town’s Arabic name means “Hot Springs” referring to nearby springs in the Gebal Ataka mountains, whose warm waters have always been considered healing.

Protected by the Ataka mountains, the soft sandy shores and inviting transparent waters of the Red Sea, make it a divers paradise. Time slips away, discovering underwater worlds of coral reefs and the secret life of fish. For those preferring to stay on top of the water, water skiing, wakeboarding, kite surfing, and windsurfing are all popular sports, passing dolphins might just join in.

Heading away from the sea, turn to the Eastern desert and make a visit to Egypt’s oldest monasteries St. Anthony and St. Paul. St. Anthony - the bigger - is built as a fortress but inside discover a self-contained village, giving fascinating insight into the monk's daily life. There are treasured paintings and a library of handwritten manuscripts. You don’t have to be religious to appreciate these or the peaceful setting either.

Continuing on from the monasteries, don’t miss out on an opportunity to take a look at the magnificent Suez Canal, a glorious triumph of engineering over nature.

With Cairo only a couple of hours away, it’s just the occasion to make a trip to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient Worlds. The eternally awe-inspiring Great Pyramids, Great Sphinx, and Valley Temple transport you back to the time of the Pharaohs.

After all this activity it’s great to relax again in Ain Sukhna!

2 Included Shore Excursions
Red Sea Monasteries

• Activity Level - Extensive
• Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of activity with walking for approximately 1km or 0.6miles and some steps to negotiate at the sites and to get on/off the coach. It is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight comfortable clothing, and flat, closed-toe walking shoes are recommended. Expect the weather to be hot. Guests are required to carry their passports with them on this excursion. No alcoholic beverages served on this tour. Proper and conservative attire is required to enter the religious sites. The travelling time involves 2 hours of driving in each direction. Your vehicle is required to travel in a police-escorted convoy and could be subject to security delays. Tour may be reversed for logistical reasons on the day.

Half Day Beach Relax

• Activity Level - Minimal
• Please note: This tour involves a minimal amount of walking and a few steps to negotiate at the resort and to get on/off the coach. It is suitable for guests with limited mobility and for those who utilise a foldable wheelchair. However guests must be able to transfer from chair and negotiate some steps. Lightweight comfortable clothing, and flat closed-toe walking shoes are recommended. Please wear your swimsuit under a coverup and bring an extra towel from the ship. Guests are required to carry their passports with them on this excursion. Your vehicle is required to travel in a police-escorted convoy and could be subject to security delays.

The Suez Canal, gouged through Africa, is one of the world’s engineering marvels - linking two seas and drastically shortening boat voyages around this huge continent. Few manmade waterways are so storied and iconic, and sailing the length of it is a bucket list item for many explorers. The construction of the canal started in 1859, and took ten years to complete, with the canal officially opening in November 1869. More than a million people worked on the project, often in unimaginable conditions. An engineering breakthrough, the canal connected the Mediterranean to the Red Sea - drastically improving global trade's efficiency. A hugely strategic and precious bottleneck, it has inevitably led to conflicts - and been vulnerable to scuttling to block its usage. The Six-Day War closed the canal, leaving 15 unfortunate ships trapped within for eight years. An amazing story, the crew members of the Yellow Fleet - named as their ships slowly gathered desert sand - adapted and created a community within the confines of Bitter Lake. Sit back and admire the desert views, as you transit the 101 Mile expanse, occasionally interrupted by little villages, with domed mosques and minarets towering into the sky. Look out for the tiny fishing boats that share the canal’s waterway, dwarfed by giant container ships - the plucky fishermen courageously refuse to yield to the massive vessels they sail beside. There is no need for locks in the canal, as the two seas sit at the same level, and passing lanes ensure that ships can travel the engineering marvel in both directions.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind, and catch up with what you've been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale-watching, catching up on your reading, or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shoreside.

It may not be the prettiest place in Crete, but Heraklion's patchwork of history, bustling activity, and cultural intrigue makes it the perfect change of pace. This is certainly no sleepy island fishing village, and Greece's fifth-largest city is adorned with a rich collection of quality museums, ancient ruins from antiquity, and a lively culture of its own. A refreshing shift-up from the many quaint beach towns and fishing villages you'll encounter in the Greek islands, Heraklion - also known as Iraklio - has great shopping, and extraordinary history - and is the ideal base for ventures to the archaeological treasures of Crete. Traded by the Arabic, Venetian, and Ottoman empires over the years, Heraklion is a multi-layered place with fascinating tales to tell. The city's impressive Venetian fortress, which waits over the gently rolling waves of the gleaming Mediterranean, welcomes you ashore. A stroll out along the seawall, alongside creaking fishing boats, takes you out to the squat fortifications that have stood since 1540. Climb to the top for views out across the water, back towards the city's waterfront. The sun-roasted earth outside the city hides treasures from the realms of history, including the Bronze Age remnants of Europe's oldest city, Knossos. A visit to the fantastic Archaeological Museum of Heraklion ties all of this history together and exhibits relics from the civilizations and eras of Crete's past. Elsewhere, Daidalou's pedestrianized paving is a charming stroll through Heraklion's shops, with streets branching off to café-lined plazas and twinkling fountains. Stop to try local food - like fresh feta and olive-sprinkled dakos mezze - all washed down with a sample of local raki brandy.

3 Included Shore Excursions
Heraklion & Archeological Museum

• Activity Level - Moderate
• Please note: This tour involves approximately a mile of extensive walking on uneven surfaces, and steps to climb while exploring the museum and the city center. Comfortable walking shoes, preferably with rubber or non-slip soles, are recommended. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. Wear light-weight clothing and bring sun protection. The tour sequence may vary to avoid overcrowding.

Scenic Lassithi Plateau

• Activity Level - Minimal
• Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately one hour, with a moderate amount of stairs (approximately 30) to negotiate at the entrance of the monastery. This tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility, however it is not suitable for guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight clothing, and sun protection. The tour sequence may vary to avoid overcrowding. Shorts are not permitted inside the monastery, and ladies must have their shoulders covered before entering. Windmills are generally adorning sails only during July and August.

From King Minos to Saint Paul

• Activity Level - Moderate
• Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of slow walking and standing. Guests must be able to walk approximately 1 mile (1.5 kilometer) over various surfaces, including gravel, inclines, and some uneven paths with steps to negotiate. Comfortable walking shoes, preferably with rubber or non-slip soles, are recommended. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. Wear light-weight clothing and bring sun protection. The tour sequence may vary.

A city of legend, civilization, and enduring culture, Athens is a majestic and magical urban sprawl. Extraordinary elegance and grace combine with grit and graft in Greece's capital, where highways encase ruins from antiquity, and gleaming museums and galleries stand beside concrete sprayed with edgy street art. These contrasts enhance and elevate the wonders of this 2,500-year-old city, however, which counts extraordinary contributions to philosophy, drama, and democracy, among its global legacy. Piraeus's giant port and naval base welcome you to the edge of Athens' urban area. From there it's a simple jaunt to the center. The majestic ancient citadel of the Acropolis dominates an elevated platform and is a constant presence as you explore the city. The wonderful remains of the columned temple of the Parthenon - which date back to the 5th century BC - stand here, representing the pinnacle of classical architecture. The nearby Acropolis Museum adds context to your visit and frames the broad views from its giant glass windows. Or rise up Mount Lycabettus, to be rewarded with perhaps Athens' best panorama of the Acropolis sitting high over the city on its grand stage. See the marble horseshoe of the Old Olympic Stadium, where the first modern Olympics were held in 1896, for more of the city's enduring legacy. Elsewhere, golden beaches and temples stretch out along the coastline, should you wish to explore a little further afield. Coffee is an art form to the Greeks, and it's an unwritten rule that coffee time must never be rushed. So prepare to settle down for a couple of hours and lose yourself in a good chat. Feeling hungry - try traditional souvlaki made with sauces handed from generation to generation.

After breakfast, bid farewell to your fellow travelers as you disembark today. Then, head to the airport for your flight home.