Cruise through the ages on a voyage through the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean. Come face to face with myth and legend, as you sail along the pristine islands of Greece to the Egyptian city of Alexandria and finally to Turkey, where East meets West. During this unforgettable journey, every port of call serves as your entryway into the ancient past.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 - Athens
Board your overnight flight to Greece.
Day 2 - Athens
Upon your arrival, a Go Ahead representative greets you at the airport and escorts you to your hotel. Join your fellow travelers at our Welcome Dinner. (B in flight, D)
Day 3 - Athens
Embark on a guided sightseeing tour of Athens this morning. The tour includes an opportunity to wander among the ruins of the ancient Acropolis and a visit to the Acropolis Museum. This afternoon, consider an optional excursion to Cape Sounion, where the ruins of the Temple of Poseidon overlook the Aegean Sea. Then step back in time at our optional Traditional Greek Evening dinner.(B)
$49
Cape Sounion
The Temple of Poseidon is one of Greece's most famous landmarks. Set high above the Aegean Sea, on a clear day you can see five Aegean islands.
$79
Traditional Greek Evening with dinner
Travel back in time 1200 years to a unique Roman era, to enjoy an ancient recreated meal. Be prepared to eat with your fingers like the Caesars did, as forks were not considered an appropriate dining accessory in those days!
Day 4 - Cruise
After a free morning to explore Athens on your own, transfer to the port to begin your 12-day cruise aboard Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Jade. (B, L, D)
Day 5 - Cruise
Your first port of call is Katakolon. This small fishing village serves as the gateway to Olympia, the ancient sanctuary heralded as the site of the first Olympic Games in 776 B.C. Consider a visit to the site where athletes once competed. Or pay homage at the Temple of Zeus, which once housed one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. (B, L, D)
Day 6 - Cruise
Cruise through the Ionian Sea to reach the island of Corfu this morning. With a full day to explore, you might visit the Achillon Museum or take a tour of the island’s colorful villages and bays. Or traverse the island countryside on a 4x4 adventure. (B, L, D)
Day 7 - Cruise
Revel in the Mediterranean sunshine with a full day at sea today. Relax on the ship’s sundeck and take a dip in the pool. Indulge yourself at the onboard spa or simply linger at one of the outdoor bars to find the perfect wine to pair with the beautiful view. (B, L, D)
Day 8 - Cruise
This morning, dock in Alexandria, where you will enjoy two full days to explore Egypt’s second largest city. Consider a visit tothe Greco-Roman Museum, which displays the best relics of ancient Alexandria and its Hellenistic civilization. Or you might choose to join anovernight trip through the desert to Cairo and the Pyramids of Giza. (B, L, D)
Day 9 - Cruise
The ancient treasures of Alexandria await on your second day in this remarkable city. You might visit the Catacombs of Kom el-Shogafa or the beautifully preserved white marble Roman Amphitheatre. (B, L, D)
Day 10 - Cruise
Take advantage of another full day at sea to sample the many dining options aboard the Norwegian Jade. The ship boasts 12 international restaurants. This evening, you might take in a show at the Stardust Theater. (B, L, D)
Day 11 - Cruise
This morning, sail into the historic seaport of Heraklion, capital of Crete. Head to the beaches for a spectacular day of snorkeling or scuba diving. You might also visit the ancient Palade of Knossos, ruled over by the wealthy King Minos. (B, L, D)
Day 12 - Cruise
Arrive on the volcanic island of Santorini this morning. With its black-sand beaches, sprawling vineyards and cliff-lined shores, this Greek isle offers an array of opportunities. Hike a volcano, visit the museum of Akrotiri or sample the local flavor at a winery. (B, L, D)
Day 13 - Cruise
Continue on to the picturesque island of Mykonos, noted for its windmills, white-washed buildings and blue-domed churches. Wander the village’s winding streets or relax on one of the pristine beaches. You might also venture to nearby Delos, once a worship mecca for the cult of Apollo. (B, L, D)
Day 14 - Cruise
Reach the magical country of Turkey today with your first stop in Ephesus, one of the world’s best-preserved cities from ancient times. Spend the day exploring the ruins or join excursions to nearby destinations, including Pergamon and the beautiful city of Izmir. (B, L, D)
Day 15 - Cruise
After a full morning to enjoy your ship’s luxurious amenities, arrive in your cruise’s final destination of Istanbul, Turkey’s cultural center where East meets West. During this afternoon’s included guided tour, a local expert guide introduces you to the 15th-century Topkapi Palace, home of Ottoman sultans. The tour also includes the ancient Byzantine church of Aya Sophia, the stunning Blue Mosque and the Hippodrome, an elaborate stadium that once hostedchariot races. This evening, return to the ship for your last night on board. (B, L, D)
Day 16 - Cruise
Continue your adventures in Istanbul with our two-night tour extension. Otherwise, travel to the airport for your flight home. (B)
Extend Your Stay
Add 2 nights,
$299 (Single room: add $90)
The undisputed cultural, economic, and historical capital of Turkey, Istanbul has enough monuments and attractions (as well as enticing restaurants and shops) to keep you busy for days. Straddling Europe and Asia, the city once known as Constantinople, capital of the Byzantine and then the Ottoman Empire, has for centuries been a bustling and cosmopolitan crossroads. The Byzantine-built Aya Sofya and the Ottoman-era Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace are within walking distance of each other, while other historic mosques and churches are sprinkled throughout the city.