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Greece Island Highlights with All-Inclusive Aegean Cruise & Guided Athens Tour
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Greece Island Highlights with All-Inclusive Aegean Cruise & Guided Athens Tour

Operated by: Mapping Journeys
Overview
8 days
7 places
2 countries
24 people max.
18+ yrs
relaxed
Partially Guided Tour
This offer has sold out
About the Tour
Your tour takes you to:
Athens
Mykonos
Kusadasi
Patmos
Rhodes
Crete
Santorini
Athens

Cruise the glittering Aegean and unearth ancient history on this tour of Greece’s must-see islands. Set sail for the ruins of Rhodes and marvel at the remains of the Temple of Artemis in Ephesus – one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Travel through history from the ancient Minoan settlements of Crete, the fabled home of the mythical Minotaur’s labyrinth, to idyllic Patmos, the biblical birthplace of the Book of Revelations. Drink in the scenery of picturesque Mykonos and see the fiery sunset sweep the whitewashed walls of Santorini’s terraced houses.

Indulge in the island lifestyle with all-inclusive, freshly prepared local cuisine aboard Celestyal Discovery and slumber in your elegant sea view exterior cabin as you take in Greece’s far eastern Mediterranean wonders.

Overview
8 days
7 places
2 countries
24 people max.
18+ yrs
relaxed
Partially Guided Tour
This offer has sold out
Itinerary & map
What you'll see
Athens

Yassas, and welcome to beautiful Greece! Widely regarded as the cradle of Western civilisation, Athens is a bustling city that brings history to life. A plethora of archaeological sites shape its topography and museums housing precious ancient artefacts pepper the landscape. Make no mistake, though – Athens is ever-evolving, drawing on its extensive history of arts, culture and cuisine to breathe new life among the ruins.

In the evening at 7pm, meet with your tour leader at the reception desk of your hotel for a sumptuous welcome dinner and the chance to get to know your fellow adventurers.

Arrival & Transfers:

Please book your flights to arrive at Athens International Airport (ATH) by 5pm. Airport transfers are included on the first day of your tour. Your transfer will meet you on arrival and take you to your hotel. Check-in on Day 1 is at 3pm.

Inclusions
The Golden Age Hotel of Athens (Urban Chic Room) or similar
Dinner
Athens, Mykonos

Wake to a filling buffet breakfast at your hotel. Transfer to the port and trade cobblestones for the cruise deck as you embark on the Celestyal Discovery. Elegant design and comfortable cabins await as you’re welcomed aboard for your unforgettable four-night cruise through the spectacular Greek islands.

From rugged cliffs to romantic ruins, your odyssey carries you through crystalline waters in the premium comfort of your exterior cabin. Arrive at Mykonos in the early evening and watch whitewashed houses and alleys light up in the glow of the island’s famous nightlife.

This evening, mark your embarkation with a welcome dinner of the freshest ingredients prepared by local chefs.

Optional Activity:

  • Mykonos shore excursion (surcharges apply).
Inclusions
Celestyal Discovery (Exterior Cabin XB) or similar
Breakfast and Dinner
Kusadasi, Patmos

Wake to the soothing sound of the Aegean Sea lapping at your doorstep and enjoy a hearty buffet breakfast aboard.

Gaze out over Kusadasi, one of Turkiye’s most popular islands and home to the ruins of Ephesus. One of the most important trading centres of classical Greece, Ephesus is a remarkably preserved monument to the region’s extensive history. Amongst the tumbled blocks and skeletal facades lie the remains of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Continue to Patmos, famed for its biblical connections. Once the refuge of Saint John the Theologian as he wrote the Book of Revelations, this idyllic island has consequently earned the hefty title of ‘Island of the Apocalypse’. Choose to take an optional excursion ashore (surcharges apply) or relax in sun-drenched style on the deck – floating on Aegean waters, the ancient world is your oyster.

Tonight, savour the centuries-old flavours of traditional Greek cuisine as you watch the glittering lights along the shore.

Optional Activity:

  • Kusadasi shore excursion (surcharges apply).
  • Patmos shore excursion (surcharges apply).
Inclusions
Celestyal Discovery (Exterior Cabin XB) or similar
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Rhodes

Breathe in the salty air of another day in the Aegean. After breakfast, choose to relax aboard your Celestyal cruise, or opt to go ashore to magnificent Rhodes. Renowned for its historic wine-making and picturesque medieval Old Town, here once stood the legendary Colossus of Rhodes – a gargantuan statue of the sun god Helios, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World since lost to the passage of time.

You could also visit the Doric Temple of Athena in the hilltop Acropolis of Lindos. Wander into the Old Town of Rhodes and pass through the imposing Gate d’Amboise into the Knights’ Quarter, then rest your eyes upon the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes – one of very few examples of Gothic architecture in Greece.

Later, board your vessel once more and relax with another spectacular Greek dinner aboard.

Optional Activity:

  • Rhodes shore excursion (surcharges may apply).
Inclusions
Celestyal Discovery (Exterior Cabin XB) or similar
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Crete, Santorini

After a restful sleep and an energising breakfast, you’re free to take the day at your leisure, unwinding in serenity or hopping ashore to explore Greece’s largest island, Crete.

Home to one of the earliest known civilisations of the Aegean, Crete’s ancient Minoan towns leave traces of the distant past scattered along its world-famous beaches. At the cusp of the Mediterranean Sea, Crete is also regarded as the birthplace of Mediterranean cuisine, full of fresh and fragrant ingredients to match the bright days and slow pace. Just outside the city of Heraklion is the Palace of Knossos, beneath which it’s believed lies the fabled labyrinth of the Minotaur.

In the afternoon, glide over the sparkling seas to Santorini. The breathtaking beauty of its white-terraced town and blue-domed houses is amplified by the fiery glow of the setting sun against the hillside. Volcanic sand beaches and panoramic views over the cliffs make Santorini a bucket list destination for travellers the world over. Opt to make landfall and wander the bright streets of this fantastical island community.

Back aboard your vessel, tuck into another tantalising traditional dinner.

Optional Activity:

  • Crete shore excursion (surcharges apply).
  • Santorini shore excursion (surcharges apply).
Inclusions
Celestyal Discovery (Exterior Cabin XB) or similar
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Athens

Savour one last buffet breakfast aboard as you cruise into Lavrion, the Port of Athens.

Seize the day with a morning tour of Athens led by your expert local guide. Stop at the Panathenaic Stadium, birthplace of the modern Olympics in 1896, then gaze up at the surviving columns of the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Visit the Hellenic Parliament and study the astounding artefacts of the Numismatic Museum of Athens – a collection of over half-a-million coins, medals, gems and stamps dating back more than 3,000 years.

Stand in awe at the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Dionysius the Areopagite, marvel at the neoclassical Academy of Athens and survey the millennia-old structure of Hadrian’s Arch.

Complete your Athens adventure with a trip to the legendary Acropolis. This ancient citadel lords over the city with the weight of history as its foundation. Circle your way up the mount, stopping to discover numerous cultural sites and hidden remnants on your way to the jaw-dropping Temple of Athena Nike. Instantly recognisable and utterly unparalleled, this ancient temple has stood in the dedication of deities Athena and Nike – goddesses of wisdom and victory respectively – since approximately 420 BCE.

Later this afternoon, check-in at your hotel and spend the rest of your day freely wandering the streets of this historic metropolis.

Inclusions
The Golden Age Hotel of Athens (Urban Chic Room) or similar
Breakfast
Athens

Today’s itinerary is yours to write. For the history enthusiasts, opt to join a full-day tour of nearby Delphi, famed for its mythic Oracle at the dramatic Temple of Apollo.

In the early evening, convene with your group for a mouth-watering farewell dinner and the chance to recount your Greek Island odyssey.

Optional Activity:

  • Delphi full-day excursion with lunch (surcharges apply).
Inclusions
The Golden Age Hotel of Athens (Urban Chic Room) or similar
Breakfast and Dinner

Savour one last breakfast at your hotel before you transfer back to Athens International Airport (ATH). As your journey comes full circle, you may be headed home but your island-hopping adventure will linger in your mind.

Departure & Transfers:

Checkout on your final day is at 11am. Please book your flights to depart from Athens International Airport (ATH) at any time. Airport transfers are included on the last day of your tour. Your transfer will meet you at your hotel and take you to the airport.

Inclusions
Breakfast
Highlights & inclusions
The following are included in your tour package:

Embark on a journey of enchantment and discovery as you set sail on a four-night cruise through the captivating Greek Islands. Your adventure begins in the city of Athens, where the echoes of ancient civilisations still reverberate through the streets. From there, glide across the Aegean’s azure waters, feeling the gentle caress of the breeze against your skin, stopping at the vibrant islands scattered across the sea.

In Mykonos, uncover charming whitewashed buildings and lively atmosphere. Continue to Rhodes, a realm where medieval grandeur melds seamlessly with Mediterranean beauty. Wander through the cobbled streets of the Old Town, and let the stories of knights and traders transport you to another era. Further along, the mystical allure of Santorini beckons – a place where sunsets paint the sky in hues of gold and pink, casting a spell of serenity upon all who behold them.

  • Discover historic Athens on a comprehensive tour with the help of your local guide
  • See spectacular Santorini and the ruins of Rhodes from the comfort of your vessel, or by joining an optional shore excursion
  • Seven nights of handpicked accommodation, including four nights in aboard the stunning Celestyal Discovery
  • All-inclusive dining aboard your Aegean cruise, including a glass of soft drink, wine or beer during meals, plus onboard entertainment and activities
  • 15 meals included – seven breakfasts, three lunches and five dinners
  • Expert English-speaking tour director on land, with knowledgable crew at sea
  • Private airport transfers
  • City tax and cruise embarkation tax
Dates & pricing
No departures available
Sorry, this offer has sold out!
Give our team a call on 888 337 2083 for more tour options
No departures available
Sorry, this offer has sold out!
Give our team a call on 888 337 2083 for more tour options
Things to know

Booking Summary: After you book, please follow the instructions in your booking summary email and ensure you complete your Traveller Details in full.

  • Luxury Escapes asks that you please complete the Traveller Details form in your ‘My Escapes’ account within 7 days of booking. Following its completion, our Tours Concierge Team will be in touch to assist with any additional arrangements – including flights.
  • Traveller Details are required in full to confirm all arrangements for your tour. Please complete the Traveller Details form as soon as possible in your ‘My Escapes’ account. Failure to complete the form within 60 days of departure may result in losing your spot on the tour.
  • If your booking is on a non-guaranteed departure, this initial email is not your tour confirmation. Tours often require a minimum number of travellers to go ahead, so your departure may not be guaranteed immediately.
  • Please note that for guaranteed departures, a minimum of two people are required to book. In the event that only one passenger has booked, you will be given the opportunity to move your departure to another date.
  • Once there is an update on the status of your tour, you will be contacted via email by the Luxury Escapes Tours Concierge Team, and they will advise whether the tour has been confirmed. Please do not book flights or make any non-flexible arrangements until you receive this update.
  • Should you require assistance with your tour, please contact our Tours Concierge Team at tours@luxuryescapes.com, who will be happy to assist with any of your queries and who will support you right up until you return from your journey.
  • Travellers 17 years and under cannot be accommodated on tour.

Update 19 December 2024: Amendments & Cancellations section updated, please see below.

Please note, our 7-Day Change of Mind ‘No Questions Asked’ Refund Guarantee and Date Change policy does not apply to Tours

  • All deposits, service fee, and payments are non-refundable.
  • Where Luxury Escapes Tours may allow a cancellation for credit due to exceptional circumstances (and at its sole discretion) and where a cancellation/credit is not otherwise permitted, an additional service fee above and beyond the existing fees in the agreed payment schedules applies for A$300 per person will apply.
  • For Trusted Partner operated tours, additional fees may apply.

Date Changes

  • Changes can be made on request by contacting the Tours Concierge Team at tours@luxuryescapes.com.
  • Tours pricing is dynamic and can change at any time.
  • Additional fees and fare difference may apply.
  • Changes are not permitted after your final payment date.
  • For Trusted Partner operated tours, additional fees may apply.
  • Date change conditions listed above do not apply to flights or pre- and post-tour accommodation booked with us. Flight fulfilment and changes are governed by the airline(s) selected at the time of booking. For your air travel, you are bound by the terms and conditions and fare rules of the selected airline(s). For pre- and post-tour accommodation, these reservations are not directly linked to your tour and may require a separate cost to change, as stated in your ‘My Escapes.’

Itinerary Amendments & Changes

  • Occasionally our itineraries are updated prior to departure. This may be to accommodate changes in weather, public holidays, common seasonal changes to timetables and transport routes, and unforeseen circumstances.
  • In the event of a change in itinerary (for safety reasons or due to events outside of our control) that results in cancellation or change fees toward flights (or other parts of your travel) we will notify you as soon as practicable.
  • You will be responsible for any associated costs or will otherwise have the right to a refund (less any costs incurred or paid to third parties).

Surcharges

  • After completing your booking, your tour cost may be subject to additional surcharges due to factors beyond the control of Luxury Escapes.
  • Where the cost of delivering your selected tour materially increases between the time of purchase and delivery, we reserve the right to increase the balance due. Increases may be in relation to, but not limited to, currency fluctuations, taxes, airfares, fuel surcharges, tour costs or government changes due to health and safety restrictions. A material increase will be considered one in excess of 10% of the package price.

Fine Print and package inclusions are accurate at the time of purchase and not subject to change, unless updates or corrections are specifically noted in the latest Fine Print with a timestamp. Please check the Fine Print prior to departure for any updates.

We reserve the right to modify prices for marketing and commercial reasons. Please note that full terms and conditions apply. Refer to website’s terms and conditions.

Accommodation for the duration of your tour is included in the Tour package.

  • You can find relevant accommodation details for each day of the itinerary on the Tour offer page, or in your ‘My Escapes’.

Please note:

  • Accommodation is subject to availability and may be substituted for a hotel of a similar or higher standard without notice.
  • Rooms will be made available after 3pm on the day of arrival. Checkout is required by 11am. Early check-in and late checkout may be available upon request, subject to availability. Additional fees may apply.
  • Maximum room capacity (Twin Room) is two adults. Maximum room capacity (Solo) is one adult.
  • All special requests, such as those regarding bedding preferences, are subject to availability and can only be confirmed upon check-in. Room assignments and bedding configurations may vary based on the destination and hotel policies, and are handled directly by the hotel staff.

Pre- & Post-Tour Accommodation Pre- and post-tour accommodation can be booked to extend your stay before or after your tour by contacting our Tours Concierge Team at tours@luxuryescapes.com.

Luxury Escapes uses a range of accommodation partners. For pre- and post-tour accommodation options where we can offer the same hotel as the start and end of your tour, your pre- and post-tour accommodation will be booked independent of your tour. If the hotel for your tour changes, this will be independent of your pre- or post-tour accommodation booking. In this instance, change fees may apply on your pre- or post-tour accommodation. If you choose to change, change fees can be found in your ‘My Escapes’.

For pre- and post-tour accommodation bookings, you may be required to check out of your room and check in again on the first or last day of your tour. You will need to confirm these details directly with the hotel.

Please contact the Tours Concierge Team at tours@luxuryescapes.com for further information.

  • Return international flights
  • Visas
  • Single supplement
  • Meals/drinks not stated in the itinerary
  • Optional activities/tours, personal expenses/transfers not mentioned
  • Travel insurance (required)
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Dining inclusions do not include drinks (unless otherwise stated). Menus are subject to change without notice.

Baggage Restrictions

  • Passengers are permitted one piece of baggage with a maximum weight of 20kg on tour.
  • Passengers are permitted one additional, smaller piece of hand-luggage with a maximum weight of 7kg on tour

Transfers

  • Arrival and departure transfers are available on the first and last day of your tour only.
  • If you have booked your pre- and post-tour accommodation through Luxury Escapes, transfers may be available for select tours (not available for Trusted Partner operated tours).
  • For complimentary transfers to be fulfilled outside of arrival and departure date, all pre- and post-tour accommodation bookings must be booked through Luxury Escapes no later than 60 days before departure. After this time, any pre- or post-tour accommodation bookings made will not be eligible for complimentary transfers.
  • If you have booked pre- or post-tour accommodation outside of Luxury Escapes, you will forfeit your complimentary airport transfers.
  • Please note ‘Private Transfers’ refers to transfers that are exclusive for your tour group and may be shared among other members of your group if arriving on the same flight or another flight arriving within a 30-minute window.
  • Flight information must be provided to Luxury Escapes 60 days prior to departure in order to book transfers. Please see Destination information for airport pick-up and drop-off information.

Tipping

  • Tipping and gratuities for your driver and guide are not included in the package and are at your own discretion. As a guide, we recommend individual passengers tipping both driver and guide a total of approximately EUR5 per day.

Tourism Tax

A new law introducing a Sustainable Tourism Development Fee, established and mandated by the Greek authorities, will come into effect on July 21, 2025 and applies to all cruise companies operating in Greece.

The fee will be charged directly on board and paid by the passengers. The fee will be applied as follows (per port, per person):

From July 1 to September 30

  • EUR20 per person for each visit to Santorini and Mykonos.
  • EUR5 per person for each visit to all other ports.

From October 1 to October 31 and from April 1 to May 31

  • EUR12 per person for each visit to Santorini and Mykonos.
  • EUR3 per person for each visit to all other ports.

From November 1 to March 31

  • EUR4 per person for each visit to Santorini and Mykonos.
  • EUR1 per person for each visit to all other ports.

Please Note:

  • The maximum capacity of the tour is related to the land portion only, the cruise is per vessel capacity and you may be joined by other travellers while onboard.
  • Groups of 10+ will have a dedicated tour director along with a driver while on land. Groups of nine or less will have a driver-guide. Your tour guide and driver will not accompany your group on the cruise.
  • Optional excursions require a minimum of eight participants to proceed.

Travel Insurance

  • Travel insurance is required on all our tours, which (at a minimum) covers medical expenses and repatriation. You may not be permitted to join the tour group if evidence of travel insurance is not provided prior to your trip. If you are unable to obtain travel insurance for whatever reason, you may be required to sign a waiver and/or provide a letter from a medical practitioner which confirms you are fit for travel. For any enquiries regarding travel insurance, please call 1300 88 99 00 or email sales@luxuryescapes.com.

Passports & Visas

  • A visa may be required. It is the traveller’s responsibility to ensure they hold a current visa for the countries visited on tour. If the traveller is on a non-Australian passport, a valid re-entry visa may be required.
  • You are responsible for visas, entry, health and other requirements, and any documents required by laws, regulations, orders and/or requirements of countries visited. Luxury Escapes and/or its servants and agents are not responsible for passport and visa requirements or for any loss you sustain for failing to comply with laws, regulations, orders and/or requirements of countries visited.
  • A valid passport with a minimum validity of 6 months beyond your return travel date is required for all passengers (including children and infants).

Traveller Details

  • Traveller Details must be completed for each individual traveller.
  • Travellers must advise of any medical conditions or dietary requirements. Failure to provide such information in advance of your tour may result in an inability to cater to your requirements.
  • We work with exceptional local tour providers to present uniquely crafted packages that encompass sightseeing tours and excursions. Our tour provider partners are dedicated to making every effort to accommodate specific requirements. However, it should be noted that the extent to which they can address mobility and accessibility needs may vary, depending on the nature of the sightseeing tour and activities involved. Please contact tours@luxuryescapes.com so we can advise whether your specific needs can be accommodated.
  • Special dietary requirements can be catered for in most cases, however, on occasion this may not be possible due to location, lack of availability of unique ingredients, and other extenuating circumstances. It is always advised to carry any necessary supplies with you.
  • Passport details are required for all bookings. In some cases, a digital copy of your passport may be requested by Luxury Escapes to book certain elements of your trip.
  • If a photo of your passport is requested, failure to provide valid photo ID will result in your booking being cancelled and all monies paid remaining non-refundable. When requested, a digital copy of your passport must be provided for each guest at least 90 days prior to your tour departure.
  • Should you require any assistance with your Traveller Details, please contact our Tours Concierge Team at tours@luxuryescapes.com.

Tour Pace

  • It’s important to note that specific activities and intensity levels may vary between different tour operators and destinations. When selecting a group tour, it’s advisable to carefully review the itinerary, activity descriptions and fitness requirements to ensure a suitable match for your preferences and physical capabilities.
    • Relaxed: Leisurely pace with limited walking or physical demands. Opportunity for ample free time and leisure activities. Suitable for individuals seeking a laidback experience.
    • Moderate: Usually more than one day in a location. Balanced mix of exploration and physical engagement. Suitable for participants with a reasonable level of fitness. Exploring cities on foot, visiting landmarks and guided excursions. Requires a moderate level of stamina and physical activity.
    • Active: Activities most days. Generally, not staying in a location for two days or more. Suitable for participants with high fitness levels and a sense of adventure.

Travel Styles

  • Fully Guided Tour: You’ll have a tour director and driver with you throughout the entire trip, from start to finish.
  • Partially Guided Tour: You’ll have a tour driver and local guides at specific locations or portions of the trip, but not the entire time. There might be different local guides for different regions.
  • Self-Guided Tour: You will not have a guide for your trip. You will be provided detailed trip notes with elements, such as accommodation and transport, pre-booked for you.

Health and Fitness Acknowledgement:

  • Travellers acknowledge that they are required to have a good level of health and fitness to undertake the activities on this tour.
  • There are limitations to the degree of accommodations that can be made if travellers are unable to partake in the included activities on this tour. Please consider suitability as additional costs could apply.
  • Travellers also acknowledge and agree that neither we nor the tour provider will be able to provide medical or other assistance in the event that they are unable to complete any aspect of the tour as a result of their health or physical condition (nor are we liable for any loss, damage, expense, injury or death arising from such).

Your tour begins at Athens International Airport (ATH) and ends at Athens International Airport (ATH), with return airport transfers.

Return flights are not included in your package and must be purchased separately. If your chosen tour departure date is guaranteed at the time of booking, you may be able to purchase flights immediately. If your tour departure date is not yet guaranteed (still pending minimum numbers), flights should not be booked until you receive an update on the status of your tour.

Please book your flights to arrive at Athens International Airport (ATH) by 5pm on Day 1 and depart from Athens International Airport (ATH) at any time on Day 8.

Return airport transfers are included in your tour on the first and last day only.

Important: Please allow for travelling time from international countries. International flights are not included in your package and must be purchased separately. It is your responsibility to make your own travel arrangements and ensure that you arrive in Athens on your chosen tour start date.

A visa may be required for the destination you are visiting. It is each traveller’s responsibility to ensure they are holding a current visa. Please take the time to visit our preferred vendor website Visas Direct to assist you with any visa application requirements and processes. If you require any supporting documentation when applying for your visa please let us know and we would be more than happy to assist. Click here to visit the website.

Need flights? Our dedicated flights concierge can assist with all your flight requirements (subject to availability). Contact sales@luxuryescapes.com.

Important Destination Information:

Greece

Time zone: GMT + 3

Telephone: 49

Currency: Euro (EUR)

Accessing money: ATMs are widely available with credit cards widely accepted within the city. Cash is advised when visiting rural areas.

Language: Greek and English

Climate: Greece has a Mediterranean climate with cold winters (Dec-Feb) and hot summers often reaching temperatures past 30°C (Jun-Aug).

Türkiye

Time zone: GMT +3

Telephone: +90

Currency: Turkish lira

Accessing money: ATMs are widely available with credit cards widely accepted within the city. Cash is advised when visiting rural areas.

Language: Turkish

Climate: Cold, snowy winters (December-March) and hot, dry summers (June, July and August), though nights remain cool.

Dress code: Relaxed but respectful, especially when visiting religious institutions.

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