Embark on an extraordinary 8-day journey on Sea Cloud II along the Greek coastline, exploring history, culture, and natural wonders. Begin in Athens, home to the majestic Parthenon atop the Acropolis. Cruise to Nauplio, a charming town with Venetian fortresses, and explore ancient Mycenae, including the iconic Lion Gate. Discover Epidaurus with its grand amphitheater. Explore Monemvasia, a medieval fortress town perched on a rocky outcrop. Sail to Milos, a volcanic island with colorful beaches and striking rock formations. Experience tranquil Paros, showcasing Cycladic beauty. Conclude in Spetses, a haven for aristocrats with opulent villas and car-free streets lined with vibrant pebble mosaics.
Highlights
Stroll Plaka's ancient streets in Athens
Unveil Mycenae's mythical Lion Gate and palace
Witness Epidaurus' grand 14,000-seat theater
Wander Monemvasia's medieval fortress town
Explore Milos' volcanic landscapes and colored shores
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.
Embark on a journey through the remarkable legacy of Melina Mercouri, the celebrated singer who once signaled the arrival of a ship at Piraeus port. Later, in her role as the Greek Minister for Culture, she successfully advocated for Athens to be named the inaugural European Capital of Culture in 1985. Athens, recognized as the genesis of Europe, philosophy, and democracy, epitomizes the ideals of the Olympic movement. Since 1987, this iconic city has held the prestigious title of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with the Parthenon temple standing proudly atop the Acropolis as its defining landmark. The historic neighborhood of Plaka lies beneath the Acropolis hill, while the state-of-the-art new Acropolis Museum has been captivating visitors with its treasures since its establishment in 2009.
Immerse yourself in the art of sailing as the passionate crew expertly raises the sails by hand. Sit back, relax in a deck chair, and admire the artistry of traditional sailing. Today is a day to unwind and enjoy the serenity of the open sea.
The old town of Nauplio has a picturesque peninsula setting and three Venetian fortresses guard the pretty town. In ancient times, the excavation site of Mycenae, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was one of the most important towns in Greece. Its legendary king, Agamemnon, has a large role in Homer's Iliad. The palace grounds were surrounded by a cyclopean stone wall. Now you can only gain entrance through the famous Lion Gate. In Epidaurus, also protected by UNESCO, the impressive 14,000-seat theatre is one of the most important buildings in this archaeological site.
The little town of Monemvasia nestles closely against a rock that lies just off the coast. This impregnable fortress was an important trading center in Byzantine times. Today it is a retreat for wealthy Athenians who spend their weekends here. Behind its walls you can discover the beautifully restored lower town, where you simply want to drift along the tranquil narrow lanes. This picturesque little town on a rock transports you back in time to the romantic Middle Ages, when it was exceptionally modern and lively.
The unique character of Milos' landscape was formed by volcanic activity. Hot springs, spectacular cliffs and distinctive rock formations give the various beaches their own individual character. The colors of Milos are most obvious where the water meets the stone and forms the coastline. Minerals have colored the sand and stones and each rock along the coastline seems to glow in a different color. Plaka, the picturesque old capital with its typical dazzling-white houses, is overlooked by a mighty castle which offers a superb view over Adamos Bay and the surrounding islands.
Are we on Mykonos? Whitewashed facades, blue windows, and doors that sparkle with the pink blossoms of the bougainvillea – with its Aegean postcard idyll, Paros is reminiscent of its famous Cycladic sister at first glance. A second glance, however, quickly reveals the differences: no crowds, no over-the-top party scene – Paros relies on gentle tourism and has therefore been able to retain much of its original charm. Besides the pretty main towns of Parikia and Naoussa and the fabulous island beaches, the wild hinterland with its traditional villages and monasteries is also worth a trip.
Exclusive, noble, traditional: Far away from mass tourism, a small, relaxed island with beautiful patrician houses basks in the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea. Wealthy Athenians like to spend their vacation days on Spetses – and this evident on the well-kept Saraonic Island. Lush flower gardens adorn the historic shipping villas, chic cafes line the old harbor, and horse-drawn carriages roll by with aristrocratic elegance on the car-free streets. On Spetses, its worth taking a look down: Here, colorful pebble mosaics adorn the streets, and many a visitor gets a kick out of finding the prettiest one.
Day 8: Athens (Piraeus), Greece | Disembark
1 Breakfast
"A ship will come...", declared the singer Melina Mercouri to the port of Piraeus. Later, as Greek Minister for Culture, she made Athens the first European Capital of Culture in 1985. The city is considered the birthplace of Europe, of philosophy and of democracy, and is the embodiment of the Olympic ideal. World-famous and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987, its landmark is the magnificent Parthenon temple, lying high up on the Acropolis in all its glory. At the foot of the Acropolis hill is the Plaka, the oldest quarter of Athens, and the world's most modern archaeological museum, the new Acropolis Museum, has been here since 2009.
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.
$7,9902-3 travelers
Category F
Two portholes, chair, table, TV with DVD player, mini-bar, dressing table, closet, safe, individually adjustable A/C.
Category E
Two portholes, sofa, table, TV with DVD player, mini-bar, dressing table, closet, safe, individually adjustable A/C.
Category D
Two portholes, two chairs, table, TV with DVD player, mini-bar, dressing table, closet, safe, individually adjustable A/C.
Category C
Panorama windows, two chairs, table, TV with DVD player, mini-bar, dressing table, closet, safe, individually adjustable A/C.
Category B
Panorama window, sofa, table, chair, decorative fireplace, console with TV/DVD and mini-bar, dressing table, walk-in closet, safe, individually adjustable A/C.
Category A
Panorama window, sofa, table, chair, desk, decorative fireplace, TV and DVD player, mini-bar, dressing table, four closets, safe, individually adjustable A/C.
Notes
Rates are based on double occupancy. A limited number of cabins can be booked for individual use for an additional charge.
Initial deposit is 30%, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 70 days prior to departure by Visa, Mastercard, Discover or AmEx. 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
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
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 Wi-Fi internet is available to all guests (connectivity permitting)
Gratuities
Port Fees
Welcome and Farewell Cocktails
Welcome champagne in the suite/stateroom
Daily fresh fruit basket in suite/stateroom
All coffee, tea specialties and soft drinks
Bottled water on the excursions
Fine wines from renowned winemakers
Open bar (except premium brands)
Beach barbecues in select destinations
Marina platform with use of water sports equipment such as snorkel gear, stand-up paddleboards, and towable tube (weather permitting)
Laundry service in suites
Curated moments
All meals including nightly 4-course menu and a 5-course gala dinner
Excluded
Travel Insurance
Personal Expenses
Flight costs (please request a quote)
Additional excursions during free time
Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
I could not be happier with my Adventure Life experience, from beginning to end. I travel a lot, and I think your company and personnel do an outstanding job. I truly appreciate your professionalism, attentiveness, and flexibility. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend your company and would be happy to serve as a reference.
I selected Adventure Travel as I was not satisfied with the responsiveness of the agent for the cruise I was trying to book and it had good recommendations. So far, I am quite happy with my agent, Betty, very responsive and accommodating.
charles
3 hours ago
Amazing. Incredible. Professional. Well done.
Wes Friedman
1 week ago
There were two best aspects to our trip:
1. The Adventure Life folks and the folks in Athens and Crete who supported our itinerary, guided us, and ran the cooking program were all superb.
2. Everything they all planned for us went without a hitch. When we needed a bit of help, they came through with really good answers.
We became aware of AL from a friend who had an excellent experience in a different location. So did we. We can recommend AL without reservation.
Tom Campbell
2 months ago
This will be the third trip I have arranged with Adventure Life and I find their customer service and helpfulness to be excellent. Sandra has been very knowledgeable in describing the details of the planned trip as well as the signing up process for the trip. I have and will continue to recommend Adventure Life as the best tour vendor I have had the pleasure to work with. Thank you for your continued excellence.
Linda Haugh
2 months ago
I was given all the information that I asked for and my questions were answered quickly. Very pleasant and knowledgeable agent.