Have questions? We're here.
Walking through the unique architecture of Greece.

Greek Isles Odyssey: Mythology, History and Cerulean Seas

Athens to Athens - Example 8 Day Cruise aboard National Geographic Orion
Talk with an expert
Build your ideal Greece trip. Call 1.406.541.2677
Start Planning My Trip
Uncover the Greek Isles on an 8-day voyage aboard National Geographic Orion, blending culture, history, and cuisine, and featuring experts from Food & Wine magazine. Sail to the islands of Delos, Milos, Naxos, and Paros. Opportunities to swim in the Blue Lagoon, explore sea caves, and walk among ancient ruins. Take part in hands-on experiences such as pottery making in Sifnos, marble carving in Naxos, and farm visits in Santorini. Onboard, enjoy wine tastings led by Food & Wine Executive Editor Ray Isle, and dine on menus crafted with seasonal, local ingredients. With guidance from National Geographic experts, discover the best of Greece—its flavors, stories, and breathtaking island landscapes.
Visit charming NaxosVisit the Street of Lions in Delos.Explore AthensHiking in the CycladesExplore the charming winding streets of the Greek islandsWalking through the unique architecture of Greece.
Highlights
  • Explore Delos’ sacred ruins, birthplace of Apollo and Artemis
  • Visit Akrotiri’s preserved ruins beneath Santorini’s volcanic ash layers
  • Join guided wine tastings led by Food & Wine experts
  • Learn marble carving from a local artisan in Naxos
Places Visited
Activity Level: Variable
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.
0

Full Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Athens, Greece | Lavrio | Embark Ship

Arrive in Athens, Greece, and transfer to Lavrio for embarkation on the National Geographic Orion in the afternoon. Settle into your cabin and sail past the Temple of Poseidon. Pre-voyage extensions in Athens or Crete are available.

Day 2: Island Exploration

Begin the day with a Zodiac excursion along the southern coast of Antiparos to explore sea caves, bays, and nearby small islets. Continue to the archaeological site on the uninhabited island of Despotiko. In the afternoon, anchor near the islets of Tigani, Panteronisi, and Glaropounta, with time for swimming, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding in the Blue Lagoon.

Day 3: Sifnos

Sifnos—a local favorite—is a peaceful, rugged island known for its sandy beaches, plethora of churches and trendy food scene. With a scenic upper chora (village) that invites exploration, visit quaint little churches that sit precariously on the edge of the sea. This morning, go on a scenic hike and then join a walking tour of the Kastro, with an optional cooking class at a local farm. Our Sifnos visit also offers an optional hands-on pottery experience. Spend the afternoon on board or enjoying the water at a local beach. Whatever your pace, this is the ideal place to explore on foot, whether it’s a brisk walk or a lazy stroll along the beach.

Day 4: Milos

Spend the morning exploring the sea caves at Kleftiko, and if conditions allow, get in the water. This afternoon, on the charming volcanic island of Milos, view the Ancient Theater and enjoy an island tour, including a visit to the stunning Sarakiniko, a majestic other-worldly beach cove surrounded by large white volcanic stones. In the small town of Trypiti, visit the 1820 excavation site of ‘Venus de Milo,’ one of the most famous works of ancient Greek sculpture, now exhibited in the Louvre. This evening, enjoy dinner on board or explore Adamantas on your own. Be sure to stop by the famous ice cream shops.

Day 5: Nea Kameni | Santorini

In the morning, hike to the crater on the uninhabited island of Nea Kameni and swim in the hot springs of Palea Kameni, or choose to visit a local farm for a tour and tasting. After lunch, go ashore to the main island of remarkable Santorini—an island archipelago formed from a single volcanic cone that erupted 3,600 years ago, burying the resident Minoan culture in ash. Plan your day with a visit to the Archaeology Museum, or visit the stunning excavations at Akrotiri, an important Minoan town preserved under volcanic ash much like Pompeii, with remarkably intact houses, streets, pottery and more. This evening, have dinner ashore taking in the breathtaking sunset.

Day 6: Naxos | Paros

This morning, choose to go on an early hike on Naxos. Visit an olive press museum and meet the fifth-generation owners while sampling cake, oil and marmalades, or enjoy a self-guided tour of the Kastro. Alternatively, join a local artisan for a marble carving experience. Over lunch, the ship repositions to Paros where you can spend the afternoon exploring the charming Kastro, visiting a winery or walking the land with a local farmer to hear how they make dry-land farming work. Afterward, taste the fruits of their bounty. The natural beauty, incredible food and less-touristy vibe of Naxos and Paros provide an authentic Greek experience.

Day 7: Delos | Syros

The island of Delos is one of the most important mythical and historical sites in Greece and a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. In myth, it’s the birthplace of the twin immortals Artemis, goddess of animals and the hunt, and Apollo, god of healing, music and light. Spend the morning surveying the Terrace of the Lions and exquisite Temple of Apollo, two of the many incredible ruins preserved here. As you go ashore in Syros, experience a walking tour of the town of Hermoupolis as the afternoon sunlight highlights its small streets and neo-Classical architecture. Enjoy a regional dance performance, and then join the performers when the time is right.

Day 8: Lavrio | Disembark | Athens

Arrive in Lavrio this morning. Enjoy a farewell breakfast on board before disembarking and transferring to the Athens airport for your flight home, or explore more on a post-voyage extension in Athens or Crete.

Ship/Hotel

National Geographic Orion

Guests Celebrating the ship National Geographic Orion in Pack Ice Ant Peninsula
Sauna on the ship National Geographic Orion
Observation Lounge and Library on the ship National Geographic Orion

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Deals

Up to 20% Savings and a 50% Reduced Deposit 29853
Book your cruise by February 9, 2026 and enjoy up to 20% savings and a 50% reduced deposit on select 2026 and 2027 voyages. Offer is valid on new bookings only, subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without prior notice, not applicable on airfare or extensions, and may not be combined with other offers. Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for more details.
Click for departure dates

Per person starting at
$9,100 2-3 travelers
Rates are subject to change without notice. Book early to get the best rate.
Category 1
Category 1
Cat 1 #316, 318-321. Cabins feature a luminous oval window and configurable beds: two single beds, two beds converted to a queen-size bed, or a queen size bed. An armchair, reading lamps, a flat screen TV, and climate controls complete the amenities. Marble bathrooms are generously sized and include a spacious shower stall with a glass door.
Category 1 S
Category 1 Single
Cat 1S #301, 322, 323. These solo cabins feature a window or two portholes, a queen-size bed, except for #301 which has a double bed, writing desk and chair, climate controls, reading lamps, and a TV. Marble bathrooms are generously sized and include a roomy shower stall with a glass door.
Category 2
Category 2
Cat 2 #302-312, 314, 315, 317. Cabins feature a luminous oval window and configurable beds: two single beds, two beds converted to a queen-size bed, or a queen size bed. An armchair, reading lamps, a flat screen TV, and climate controls complete the amenities. Marble bathrooms are generously sized, and include a spacious shower stall with a glass door.
Category 3
Category 3
Cat 3 Suite with Window #401-412, 414-419. These suites feature a sitting area with a large window, a sofa–except slightly smaller #401 & #402–an armchair or two, writing/laptop desk, reading lamps, flat screen TV, & climate controls. Beds are configurable (call for details). Marble bathrooms include a spacious shower stall with a glass door.
Category 3 S
Category 3 Single
Cat 3S Suite with Window #512. This solo suite features two beds and two large windows, plus two armchairs and small table, reading lamps, a flat screen TV, and climate controls. The marble bathroom is generously sized and includes a spacious shower stall with a glass door.
Category 4
Category 4
Cat 4 Deluxe Suite with Window #511, 515. These two suites feature separate sleeping and sitting areas, with a chair and armchair and a two-cushion sofa facing an expansive window. Beds are configurable (call for details). Ample storage, reading lamps, a flat screen TV, and climate controls complete the amenities.
Category 5
Category 5
Cat 5 Suite with French Balcony #501, 503-506, 508. These spacious suites feature open living areas and sliding glass doors opening to a shared French balcony. Beds are configurable (call for details.) A sitting area with arm chairs and a sofa, a writing/laptop desk, well-placed reading lamps, a flat screen TV, and climate controls complete the decor.
Category 6
Category 6
Cat 6 Owner’s Suite with French Balcony #502, 507, 509*, 510. These large, elegant suites feature a French balcony, with the exception of #509 which has double windows. Each provides a separate living area with a sofa and two arm chairs, except for #502, which uniquely offers a 'soaking tub with a view' in addition to a shower stall and expansive vanity.

Notes

Single supplement varies by itinerary. A solo traveler matching program may be available but is subject to availability.
Included
  • 7 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 7 Dinners
  • 7 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Assistance by the onboard National Geographic Photography Expert
  • Access to the OM System Photo Gear Locker with the latest gear to try out on loan (aboard Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic fleet) 
  • Beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits are available aboard the ship. Additionally, a selection of super premium wines and liquors is offered for purchase.
  • Crew gratuities
  • Complimentary Starlink-enabled Wi-Fi internet is available to all guests aboard Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic fleet, enabling email, messaging, and social media.
  • Park and site entrance fees, special access permits, and port taxes
  • Excursions, hotels, and airport transfers, as indicated in the itinerary 
  • Selection of exploration tools curated to your destination, such as Zodiacs and glass-bottom boats, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, snorkeling equipment (including wetsuits, masks, and fins), and other state-of-the-art gear
  • Guidance and company of leading expedition staff
  • All meals as indicated in the itinerary, both aboard and onshore. Meals are inspired by regional cuisine and locally sourced where possible
  • Hors d’oeuvres inspired by regional cuisine and locally sourced where possible
  • 24-hour access to snacks, premium coffees and teas, non-alcoholic beverages, and filtered water
  • Presentations on your destination by expedition staff and expert guest speakers
  • Complimentary reusable water bottle to fill at onboard water refill stations
  • The services of a physician, physician’s assistant, nurse practitioner, or paramedic  where available
  • Morning stretch classes and 24-hour access to exercise equipment where available
  • 24-hour access to lounges, observation decks, library stocked with regionally relevant literature, and other shared spaces 
  • Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic certified photo instructor
  • Gratuities for the Crew
Excluded
  • Gratuities
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Laundry, spa treatments, scuba diving, Wi-Fi and phone services (except when indicated as included)
  • We strongly recommend our guests to take Travel Protection Plan. A Plan with comprehensive coverage to protect you from cancellation fees, costs incurred due to trip delays/interruption, damaged or lost baggage, medical assistance, and evacuation during your travels
  • Airfare (except flights when indicated as included), pre- and post-expedition extensions, additional hotel nights, and private transfers (except when indicated as included)
  • Travel protection plans and passport, visa, and immigration fees 
  • Enhanced and premium Wi-Fi plans, which may enable video chat, web browsing, and streaming (connectivity permitting)
  • Additional costs associated with medical services outside onboard physician consultation (where available)
  • Gratuities for the Expedition Leader

Map

Inquire

* By providing your phone number, you consent to receive direct phone calls or SMS messages from our Trip Planners to get the process started. We do not share your information with third-parties.
Change & customize to make it yours.
Travel Agents

We Love to Talk Travel

Call 1.800.344.6118
or
Chat Now
We are so glad that we chose Adventure Life. The service is top-notch. Everything is well taken care of and we just have to print the documents and go. Franny even gave us timely updates on possible airport strike.
KC Chan

Greece Travel Guide

Favorite Greece Greece All Trips

Top Greece Travel Destinations

Greece Trips by Departure Date

Top Experiences in Greece

Greece Trips by Duration

Greece Trips by Activity

More Reasons

Why Travel With Adventure Life

All News

Recognized By