Sail from Piraeus to Valletta on this 6-day Mediterranean cruise exploring the history of Greece, Italy, and Malta aboard the Star Clipper. Depart Athens, the center of Western civilization, and navigate to Monemvasia, a preserved Byzantine fortress town. Visit Pilos, home to King Nestor’s Palace and the site of the 1827 Battle of Navarino Bay. Continue to Syracuse in Sicily to tour the Parco Archeologico della Neapolis and medieval lanes. The journey concludes in Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage site established by the Knights of St. John. This route focuses on archaeological landmarks, maritime history, and the distinct cultures of the Ionian and Mediterranean seas.
Highlights
Explore Athens ancient Agora where the voices of great philosophers argued
Walk Monemvasia twisting alleys and red tiled roofs of this stone fortress
Wander Syracuse baroque piazzas and medieval lanes by the sparkling waters
Discover Valletta the fortified capital built by the Knights of Saint John
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.
Strolling through the ancient Agora beneath the Acropolis evokes the legacy of Plato, Socrates, and Aristotle, whose philosophical debates once filled the air. Athens stands as a timeless monument to human achievement, celebrated as the birthplace of democracy and the epicenter of Western civilization. Access to this historic capital is provided by the port of Piraeus, conveniently located just 15km from the city center and 45km from the airport.
Viewed from the shore, a massive rock protrudes dramatically into the sea. Crossing the causeway and passing through an imposing iron fortress gate reveals the town of Monemvasia, a perfectly preserved Byzantine port. Once a stronghold of 60,000, the settlement is now an intimate enclave of just a few hundred residents. The name Monemvasia, meaning "single entrance," proves fitting for this fortified destination. In the rocky hills above, ancient Byzantine ruins loom over the town, while below, a maze of red-tiled roofs and twisting alleys conceals hidden tavernas, cafes, and the home of the revered Greek poet Yannis Ritsos.
Homer's 'Wise King Nestor' was very wise indeed to build his magnificent palace near Pilos. For the city's harbor of Navarino Bay and the land-locked lake that was the original harbor were a perfect refuge from storms - and invaders. And it was at this site on October 20, 1827, with the help of Britain, Russia and France, that modern Greece attained independence, defeating the Turkish navy in the Battle of Navarino Bay.
Each Star Clippers ship offers a traditional and elegant way to see the world. Feel the wind fill the sails and gently carry you from one gorgeous destination to the next. During your time on board, you can choose to relax on a sun lounger or cool off in one of the pools on the top deck, while more adventurous passengers may enjoy the opportunity to climb the rigging or even have a go at steering the ship. Alternatively, you can wander the interior areas of the ship and discover relaxing lounges, and a peaceful library.
Syracuse is a city on the Ionian coast of Sicily that's known for its ancient ruins. It was once the largest city in the world, bigger than Athens and Corinth and as you can imagine it's steeped in history. Visit Parco Archeologico della Neapolis, one of Sicily's greatest archaeological sites. Relax in one of it's stylish little cafes that surround it's beautiful baroque piazzas before wandering down it's medieval lanes towards the sparkling blue sea.
Day 6: Valletta, Malta | Disembark
1 Breakfast
Valletta is the tiny capital of the island of Malta. The walled city was established in the 1500s on a peninsula by the Knights of St. John, a Roman Catholic order. It has a rich historical past and is a European Art City and a World Heritage City. It boasts an abundance of museums, palaces, and grand churches to visit, but be sure not to miss the opportunity to explore one of its beautiful gardens.
Disembark after breakfast and continue your independent trip back home.
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.
$1,7402-3 travelers
Category 6
Located on the Commodore Deck, this inside cabin features upper/lower berths and a bathroom with shower.
Category 5
Located on the Clipper & Commodore Decks, this inside/outside cabin features a raised double bed, two lower beds, or triple berths, and a marble-lined bathroom with shower.
Category 4
Located on the Commodore Deck, this outside cabin features two lower beds, double bed, or triple berths, and a marble-lined bathroom with shower.
Category 3
Located on the Clipper & Commodore Decks, this outside cabin features two lower beds, double bed, or triple berths, and a marble-lined bathroom with shower.
Category 2
Located on the Clipper Deck, this large outside cabin features two lower beds, double bed, or triple berths, and a marble-lined bathroom with shower.
Category 1
Located on the Main & Sun Decks, this deluxe deck cabin features two lower beds that can convert to a double bed, minibar, marble-lined bathroom with whirlpool bath, and cabin doors that open onto the deck.
Owner's Cabin (Double)
Located on the Clipper Deck, this deluxe outside cabin features a double bed, sitting area, minibar, and marble-lined bathroom with whirlpool.
Notes
Single supplement: A single supplement fare is available at 150% of the published cruise fare for categories 2-6 during the season in which passengers are traveling. It is available at 200% for category 1 cabins, Deluxe Suites, and Owner's Suites. Single space is capacity controlled.
Children's rate: Savings may be available for children under 18 years when traveling with a full-paying adult on select sailings and subject to availability. Contact us for details.
Initial deposit is $400 pp for Cat 2-6 and $800pp for Cat 1, Deluxe and Owner's, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 100 days prior to departure by bank transfer, check, or credit card. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge
For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.
Included
5 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 5 Dinners
5 Nights Accommodations
Accommodations as listed
Ground transportation as listed
Activities as listed
Meals as listed
Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
Port Fees
All meals and snacks (open seating) including: Coffee and tea are available 24 hours a day. Different juices are included only for breakfast.
Ocean transportation to remote ports.
Complimentary snorkeling, kayaks, paddle boarding, water-skiing, windsurfing, and sunfish sailing (subject to weather conditions and
local authorities).
Excluded
Travel Insurance
Personal Expenses
Flight costs (please request a quote)
Additional excursions during free time
Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
The trip was terrific with great planning on your part. Most of the adventures were not mainstream and somewhat off the beaten path which made it especially enjoyable!! We felt taken care of and you all were readily available to respond to questions and issues. I would highly recommend your company and friends have already expressed interest based on our pictures and excitement.
