Embark on an 8-day cruise aboard the Elysium, navigating the stunning Corinth Canal and exploring five UNESCO World Heritage sites in the Peloponnese. This historical journey, guided by resident archaeologists, takes you through ancient legends and breathtaking landscapes. Visit Delphi, where the Oracle spoke, and Ancient Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games. Discover the Byzantine settlement of Mystras, the medieval marvel of Monemvasia, and the legendary sites of Mycenae and Epidaurus. Experience Hydra, recognized by UNESCO as the “Best Preserved Island of the Mediterranean.” This voyage is a journey through history, offering unforgettable experiences that will last a lifetime.
Highlights
Tour Nafplion famous ancient sites of Mycenae and Epidaurus ruins
Visit Kylini ancient Olympia ruins where the Olympic Games first began
Discover Gytheio old Byzantine town with legends of Paris and Helen
Swim Elafonissos clear blue waters in a quiet and protected beach
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
Board the ship at Lavrion between 14:30 and 15:30, where a seamless check-in awaits. Savor some signature cocktails as you settle in. Enjoy welcome drinks and a delightful dinner before experiencing the unforgettable passage through the stunningly narrow Corinth Canal. Overnight at sea.
Early in the morning, you arrive in Itea, a great starting point for visiting Delphi or the charming seaside town of Galaxidi on optional tours. Delphi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was once considered the “navel of the world,” where the Oracle Pythia shared her prophecies. Galaxidi, a peaceful town with a rich maritime past, was once among Greece’s wealthiest ports. Its neoclassical mansions and pebble-covered courtyards remain beautifully preserved. Enjoy dinner onboard as you sail overnight to Kylini.
Morning arrival at Kylini port, your base for exploring Ancient Olympia, another UNESCO World Heritage site of major importance as it is the birthplace of the Olympic Games. To this day, the Olympic flame is lit from the sun's rays at the Temple of Hera and passed on by a High Priestess. Late afternoon, you set sail for Gytheio—dinner on board and overnight at sea.
Wake up at the “Land of the Gods,” Gytheio. Gytheio is the site of ancient Cranae, a tiny island where, according to legend, Paris of Troy and Helen of Sparta spent their first night together before departing for Troy, thus igniting the Trojan War. Explore this relaxing and romantic place or join an optional tour of the stunning fortified settlement of Mystras, yet another UNESCO World Heritage site in your journey. Sitting proudly on Mount Taygetos, Mystras served as the capital of the Byzantine settlement of Morea during the 14th and 15th centuries. Lunch on board. Enjoy dinner in the evening at one of the many traditional fish tavernas in Gytheion. Overnight at Ghtheio.
In the morning, enjoy a swim stop (weather permitting) at the tiny and magical beach of Elafonissos, featuring sand hills and turquoise tropical waters, a NATURA-protected habitat. Lunch onboard the Elysium. In the afternoon, you arrive at Monemvasia's immaculately preserved medieval town, meaning "the only entrance." Explore its fairytale beauty and walk its narrow, pebbled alleys. Immerse yourself in the rich history of Monemvasia with a guided photographic tour led by the cruise coordinator, which is included in your cruise rate. Enjoy a romantic dinner with local cuisine and wine before returning to Elysium for your overnight sail to Nafplion.
After breakfast set out to explore Nafplion and the surrounding area. Take a guided tour to the Ancient City of Mycenae and the ancient sanctuary of Asclepius in Epidaurus, both UNESCO World Heritage sites of great historical significance. Upon returning to Nafplion, wander through the picturesque streets of the old town. Admire its Venetian architecture, vibrant squares, and unique boutique shops. Conclude your day with some leisure time at a local café or by the harbor, soaking in the tranquil beauty of this historic seaside town. Overnight at port.
Early in the morning, you set sail to the Saronic island of Hydra. Enjoy a leisurely walk at one of Greece's most cosmopolitan and equally romantic destinations. Hydra is an architectural reserve free of motor vehicles and a summer home to many international celebrities. It has recently been named "The best-preserved island in the Mediterranean" by UNESCO. Delight in a captivating walking tour of Hydra, thoughtfully arranged by your cruise coordinator and included in your cruise fare—farewell dinner onboard en route to Lavrion port.
Day 8: Lavrion | Disembark
1 Breakfast
Disembarkation at Lavrion port after breakfast until 10:00.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$3,2652-3 travelers
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Cat C
Portholes, 12-14 sq m. Lower deck twin/double beds with plush mattresses, all-season duvets, pillows & flat-screen TV w/ movie channels.
Cat B
Portholes, 14 sq m. Lower deck twin/double beds with plush mattresses, all-season duvets, pillows & flat-screen TV w/ movie channels.
Cat B+
Portholes, 15-17 sq m. Lower deck twin/double beds with plush mattresses, all-season duvets, pillows & flat-screen TV w/ movie channels.
Cat A
Windows, 15-17 sq m. Upper deck twin/double beds with plush mattresses, all-season duvets, pillows & flat-screen TV w/ movie channels.
Cat A+
Windows, 17-20 sq m. Upper deck twin/double beds with plush mattresses, all-season duvets, pillows & flat-screen TV w/ movie channels.
Our guide and driver were very good with their knowledge and were very helpful with our questions. It was a very pleasant visit that would have been impossible to do on our own. Hotels and restaurants were fantastic. The special places we got to go to, like the kitchens, were great. Enjoyed the entire trip!
Our trip to Greece was memorable. Adventure Life arranged for a private driver and daily tour leaders who were knowledgeable and personable. The day we were supposed to return, Greece had a 24-hour strike. Elma handled all the transportation problems promptly. I love that Adventure Life has people with experience in different parts of the world, plus local contacts.
JoAnn H.
2 weeks ago
We have used Franny from Adventure Life to help us plan trips to South Africa (with 2 safari lodges), Ecuador, Belize, and Greece.
Every trip was phenomenal. Franny will get to know you and what you like - then she plans magical experiences for you! I love having someone who knows my preferences and plans it for me - the trips have not been overpriced and they take the stress out of travel planning.
Debby Casson
4 months ago
THEY GET BACK TO YOU PROMPTLY WITH ANSWERS TO YOUR CONCERNS OR QUESTIONS.
L Boerma
5 months ago
What make Adventure-Life great are the people. Plus the expertise that different people have for different areas of the world.