Embark on an 11-day Mediterranean trip aboard National Geographic Orion, beginning in Athens. Visit Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore Patmos with the Monastery of Saint John and the Cave of the Apocalypse. See Chios’s medieval villages, known for mastic production. Walk the ancient streets of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved cities. In Didim, visit the Sanctuary of Apollo, Miletus, and the ruins of Herakleia. In Bodrum, tour the Castle of St. Peter and the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, with time for sailing and swimming. On Leros, view windmills and medieval castles. In Santorini, hike volcanic terrain, swim in hot springs, and choose the Archaeology Museum or Akrotiri. On Naxos, join hikes, workshops, and food tastings, then continue to Paros for wineries and farming before returning to Athens.
Highlights
Visit Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage site, birthplace of Artemis & Apollo
Visit Patmos to see the Monastery of Saint John and the Cave of Apocalypse
Discover Chios’s medieval villages and learn its unique mastic production
Tour the ruins of Ephesus, one of the world’s best-preserved ancient cities
Experience Santorini’s volcanic history and explore Naxos’s culture
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.
Arrive in Athens, Greece’s capital, and travel to Lavrio to board the National Geographic Orion in the afternoon. Get settled in your cabin and enjoy your first Aegean sunset at sea. Alternatively, extend your trip with a pre-voyage stay in Athens or Crete.
Delos is a key mythical and historical location in Greece, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. According to legend, it's the birthplace of the twin gods Artemis, the goddess of animals and hunting, and Apollo, the god of healing, music, and light. Explore the Terrace of the Lions and the remarkable Temple of Apollo, among other preserved ruins.
In 1999, UNESCO designated three landmarks on the Greek isle of Patmos as World Heritage sites: the Monastery of Saint John the Theologian, the Cave of the Apocalypse, and the town of Chora—all for their significance in Christianity. Patmos is believed to be the island where Saint John the Theologian wrote the Book of Revelation, and the 11th-century monastery has been a pilgrimage site ever since. Tour the monastery and the cave, where Saint John dictated his gospel to his disciple, Prochoros. Later, there are options to explore the island’s whitewashed alleyways and lush courtyards, meet local artisans or simply relax while enjoying a coffee in a local cafe.
Chios has been a major exporter of mastic, a resin derived from plants, for centuries. Grown only on the island, it is used in liqueurs, cosmetics, and chewing gum. Once in high demand by pirates and smugglers, the island’s villages were fortified with walls and watchtowers to safeguard the valuable resin. These medieval villages are uniquely charming, and you’ll have the chance to visit Pyrgi, known as the “painted village” for its distinctive black-and-gray geometric designs on buildings.
Step back in time as you wander through UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ephesus, one of the world’s best preserved ancient cities and once home to the Temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Peer up at the intricately carved ceiling of the iconic Library of Celsus, and marvel at the Temple of Hadrian, where the main keystone arch still holds in place nearly 2,000 years after its construction. Later, enjoy a performance of whirling dervishes—mystical Sufi dancers who spin themselves into a spiritual trance.
Travel to the eastern shores of Lake Bafa, where the ancient city of Herakleia rests at the foot of Mt. Lamos. Once a thriving Carian port, the site is home to atmospheric ruins, including the Temple of Athena and the Roman Agora. The lake also offers a chance to enjoy birdwatching in its serene natural setting or a hike on the same paths used by 8th century hermits and Byzantine monks.
After lunch onboard, continue to Didyma, home to the renowned Sanctuary of Apollo, followed by a visit to Miletus—a significant hub of commerce, culture and innovation from the Bronze Age through the Roman era.
Gracing Bodrum’s magnificent waterfront is the Castle of St. Peter, a 15th-century crusader fortress that now houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology—an impressive collection of antiquities recovered from ancient shipwrecks along the Turkish coast.
In the afternoon, set sail on a traditional Turkish wooden sailing gulet to discover the area’s tranquil, hidden bays. Take time to relax and enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear, blue waters of the Aegean Sea.
Laid-back Leros, one of the Dodecanese Islands, is dotted with picturesque windmills and medieval castles that make great photography subjects. Set out on a photo walk as the early sun rises above the hillcrests.
On the uninhabited island of Nea Kameni, hike to the crater or swim in the hot springs. In the afternoon, venture into the remarkable Santorini—an island archipelago formed from a single volcanic cone that erupted 2,600 years ago to bury the resident Minoan culture in ash. Sail directly into the caldera, then drive through windswept vineyards to visit the Archaeology Museum. Tour the museum and excavations at Akrotiri, an important Minoan town preserved under volcanic ash like Pompeii, with well-built houses, streets, waterworks, pottery and art.
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 11: Lavrio | Disembark Ship | Athens
1 Breakfast
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.
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.
$12,2292-3 travelers
Rates are subject to change without notice. Book early to get the best rate.
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 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
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
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 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
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
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
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.
For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.
Included
10 Breakfasts, 9 Lunches, 10 Dinners
10 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
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)
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.
