Venice to Athens, Piraeus, Greece

Venice has been given many names: the "Queen of the Adriatic," "City of Water," "City of Masks," "City of Bridges," "The Floating City," among many others. It has been described as "undoubtedly the most beautiful city built by man." Founded in the 5th century CE, the city spans 118 small islands in the marshy Venetian Lagoon along the Adriatic. In 1987, Venice and its Lagoon was designated a UNESCO Heritage site. Explore this ancient and beautiful city before boarding your ship to begin your adventure in the afternoon. 

Hvar is a Croatian island in the Adriatic Sea. The island of Hvar is somewhat unusual as it is blessed with a large fertile coastal plain and fresh water springs. Its hillsides are covered in pine forests, with vineyards, olive groves, fruit orchards and lavender fields in the agricultural areas. The climate is characterized by mild winters and warm summers with many hours of sunshine. Kayak down the coastline, take an independent hike up to the fortress to have some incredible views of the picturesque harbor, or bike across the island to Starigrad and meet up with the other guests to explore this beautiful island.

Dubrovnik is one of the most prominent destinations in the Adriatic Sea. It lies in the region of Dalmatia and is considered to be among the 10 best medieval walled cities in the world - for which it was awarded UNESCO World Heritage status in 1979. Anchor off the walled city and explore the incredible old town. 

An old Mediterranean port, Kotor is surrounded by an impressive city wall built by the Republic of Venice, and the Venetian influence remains dominant among the architectural influences. In 1979 the Bay of Kotor, City of Kotor and the surrounding territory were listed with UNESCO as a Cultural Site. Dock close to town, and join an optional excursion: join a walking discovery tour, or learn about the heritage and countryside of Montenegro. For those seeking more activity, enjoy incredible biking along the coast as well as a hike up to the fortress. 

Relax and enjoy the luxury of Sea Dream II

Itea is a small town situated on the north coast of the Gulf of Corinth. The town has a nice beach along with some shops, cafes and restaurants. It allows the closest access to the incredible sight of Delphi, which is ones of the top three archaeological attractions in Greece. It is believed that Zeus wanted to find the center of the Earth so he sent two eagles flying from the eastern and western extremities and where they met was Delphi – becoming the “navel of the earth.”
Enjoy a guided visit that highlights the ancient Sanctuary of Apollo, where Pythia, the celebrated Oracle, dwelt; the Temple of Apollo, the Sacred Way, the amphitheater, the best-preserved stadium of Greece, and the Castalia Spring, where in ancient days pilgrims had to wash before they were allowed to consult the Oracle. In the Delphi Museum, see such treasures as the Omphalos, which marked the center of the world, and the magnificent bronze Charioteer, one of the finest pieces of sculpture surviving from the 5th century BCE. After the museum, enjoy free time to visit the village of Delphi. 

So narrow! So dramatic! This afternoon, marvel at the steep walls as your ship transits the Corinth Canal. The canal was first completed in 1893, despite previous attempts from ancient times. The first plans date to 602BCE, and the Roman Emperor Nero actually started construction in 67AD, making the first cut himself with a golden pick. The canal transit is 6.3 kilometers (3.9 mi) in length. Before the canal, ships sailing between the Aegean and the Adriatic had to circumnavigate the Peloponnese Peninsula, which adds about 185 nautical miles to the voyage.

There is one main town on Hydra, known simply as "Hydra port". It consists of a crescent-shaped harbor, around which is centered a strand of restaurants, shops, markets, and galleries that cater to both tourists and locals. Steep stone streets lead up and out from the harbor area. The charm of Hydra town lies in its rich history, beautiful port and charming waterfront unspoiled by motorized vehicles. The island offers a rugged charm and some spectacular scenery and makes the perfect place for some self-guided exploration.

Piraeus, roughly translating to “the place over the passage”, is an important Greek port located within the Athens agglomeration, in the Attica Basin. Inhabited since the 26th Century, it wasn’t until the 6th Century B.C.E. that Piraeus began catching attention. By the 5th Century B.C.E. it became a navy base for the Athenian fleet for the natural harbors and the strategic potential they carried. Athenian general and politician Themistocles fortified Piraeus’ three harbors Kantharos, Zea and Munichia, created ship houses and completed his walls in 471 B.C.E, which led to the port becoming a great military and commercial harbor. There are many archaeological sites, points of interest and entertainment available in Piraeus. Most famous for its taverns and cuisine, Piraeus is a bustling port city home to cultural festivals, historic theaters, and museums home to Classical treasures, in addition to incredible natural beauty. Be sure to catch the panoramic views available from the hill of Kastella, overlooking Athens and the Saronic Gulf! Explore after disembarking your ship and before continuing on your adventures or returning home.