Rome to Athens

As your primary seaport for the Italian capital of Rome, Civitavecchia acts as a crucial entry point for Mediterranean cruises and ferries navigating the Tyrrhenian Sea. This bustling port offers you a seamless gateway to numerous destinations across Italy and beyond. When organizing your travel logistics, keep in mind that the city is located 70 kilometers from Rome and 62 kilometers from Fiumicino Airport.

Gaze upon Ponza Town, where pastel houses climb in tidy, terraced rows straight from the bustling harbor. Down at the water, you can watch sleek yachts anchored seamlessly beside rustic fishing boats. With remarkably few tourists in sight, wandering through these charmingly unspoiled streets offers you a truly delightful escape.

During the Middle Ages, Amalfi was a powerful republic of 70,000 people, rivalling nearby Ravello. For a sense of Amalfi's medieval glory, wander through the grand Duomo, containing the remains of St. Andrew. Amalfi is a magnificent coastal town offering an enchanting blend of natural beauty, rich history and Mediterranean charm.

The Aeolian archipelago is made up of 7 islands of volcanic origin, of which only Stromboli and Vulcano are still active volcanoes. The main island is Lipari, which offers travellers arriving by boat a beautiful panorama of its Acropolis, presided over by the Cathedral. Its marina is bustling with shops, boutiques and stalls... it's an island where life is good.

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.

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.

A charming port town on Greece's Peloponnese peninsula, Katakolon serves as a gateway to the ancient site of Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games. Passengers can explore the ancient ruins with the optional tour. Katakolon itself offers a picturesque waterfront lined with shops and cafes, providing a relaxing prelude or conclusion to the historical exploration of Olympia.

Located in the Peloponnese region of Greece, Gythio is a charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant harbor. It offers a mix of traditional Greek culture and modern amenities, with picturesque streets lined with neoclassical buildings. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood at waterfront tavernas and explore nearby ancient sites like the ruins of Sparta. The scenic views and relaxed atmosphere make it an ideal destination for a coastal getaway.

Sifnos, a tranquil jewel in the Aegean Sea, enchants travelers with its harmonious blend of Greek tradition and natural beauty. This Cycladic island is celebrated for its pristine beaches, traditional villages adorned with whitewashed buildings, and a vibrant culinary scene. The island's picturesque churches, winding cobblestone streets, and charming tavernas create an authentic Greek ambiance that's both relaxing and invigorating. Sifnos is renowned for its local cuisine, featuring delectable specialties like chickpea soup and honey-drenched pastries. With its serene beaches and warm hospitality, Sifnos is a perfect destination for those seeking an unspoiled Greek island experience.

Weather permitting, the ship anchors at Kleftiko, one of the most breathtaking natural wonders of Milos. Once a pirate hideout, this secluded bay is famed for its dazzling white cliffs, sea caves, and luminous turquoise water. Passengers can swim, snorkel, or simply float beneath towering rock formations sculpted by wind and sea. The light dances across the surface, creating an ever-changing palette of blues and silvers. Peaceful and unforgettable, this morning swim stop is one of the most memorable moments of any Star Clippers voyage - a rare chance to experience the wild beauty of the Aegean at its purest.

Milos, a gem of the Cyclades Islands, is famous for its striking volcanic landscape and colorful cliffs, as well as its more than 70 unique beaches boasting crystal-clear waters. Adamas, the island's main port, is nestled in a sweeping natural bay. This bustling harbor town boasts inviting tavernas where visitors can sample local delicacies and enjoy the gentle hum of fishing boats bobbing on the turquoise water. Venture inland to discover Milos's hidden gems, such as Sarakiniko Bay's otherworldly landscape, Plaka's narrow streets and breathtaking views, and the vibrant fishermen's village of Klima with its distinctive 'syrmata' houses. Adamas is a welcoming gateway and a serene retreat in the heart of the Cyclades.

Hydra is a town of stately mansions all built around 1800 by blockade runners who had made fortunes outwitting the British during the Napoleonic Wars. As there are no cars, for the spectacular view from the Monastery of Ilias, you have to ride a donkey to the top.

Walking in the shadow of the Acropolis in the Agora, you can almost hear the voices of Plato, Socrates and Aristotle arguing about who was the greatest philosopher. Ancient Athens, the birthplace of democracy and epicenter of western civilization, is a city for all eternity. Piraeus is the port of Athens, just 15km from the city and 45km from the airport.

Disembark after breakfast and continue your independent trip back home.