The Eastern Mediterranean comprises Croatia, Greece and Turkey. These countries are ageless reminders of ancient cultures and civilizations with a heavy air of mystique.
Croatia and Greece are filled with myriad islands and a remarkable history. Explore the many bays and beaches and crystal waters, and experience richness of their culture in the tavernas and small fishing villages.
Turkey is a land of natural beauty, spectacular cliff tombs, deep blue water and colorful bazaars. Tranquil anchorages dotted between lively resorts, ancient ruins and beautiful beaches.
Sample Itinerary - 14 Days
Croatia
Day 1 Start off the cruise in Venice discovering the magic of the maze of canals by floating on a gondola or getting hopelessly lost walking amongst all the bridges. Sip coffee in piazza San Marco or buy some famous Venetian glass on the island of Morano.
Day 2 Cruise to Rovinj and the Lim fjord, an area of outstanding beauty an natural oyster farms.
Day 3 Brijuni is a national park and surrounded by historic monuments.
Day 4 An overnight cruise will take you to Zadar, a 9th century town which is a preservation of many different eras and golden churches.
Day 5-6 Kornati national park is a maze of hundreds of uninhabited islands and reefs, and untouched wilderness. The aquamarine waters are truly incredible and the islands are natural jewels of the ocean.
Day 7 Slibernik at the mouth of the Krka River is a festival town rich in culture, wine and waterfalls.
Day 8-9 Wander around the museums and cultural centre of Split.
Day 10-11 Cruise along the coast to the islands of Brac and Hvar, a succession of stunning views, lavender fields olive groves and architectural monuments on the land and in the sea.
Day 12 Passing the imposing towers of Korcula on your way to the national park with a plethora of gorgeous secluded anchorages to while away your lazy days.
Day 13-14 End the cruise in Dubrovnik. the undisputed jewel of the Adriatic. A stunning location steeped in history. Stroll through the polished marble squares and the medieval churches, and gaze at the Adriatic from atop the citys massive walls.
Sample Itinerary
Greece Ionian Islands
The Ionian Islands, consisting of Corfu, Levkas, Cephalonia and Zankinthos, are beautiful lush green mountainous islands that rise steeply out of the deep blue seas. Scattered with secluded bays, sleepy fishing villages and remnants of eras gone by, this area is ideal for peaceful cruising. Then continue to transit through the Corinth Canal, a marvel of technical capability and 4 miles long, truly an amazing sight, and finish in Athens.
Greece The Aegean Sea
The Aegean Sea consists of three sets of groups of islands. To the north is the Sporades: Skiathos and Skyros, more lush green islands with superb beaches and hidden coves. In the middle is the Cyclades: Kea, Milos, Santorini, Mykonos and Andros. These islands are dry moonscapes dotted with white and blue villages perching atop rocky hills, sun dappled beaches stretching into the rich blue waters, and lively nightlife. To the south and south east are the Dodecanese: Crete, Rhodes, Symi and Kos, these islands are filled with many ancient archeological sites and interesting history, great restaurants and fantastic shopping. The best months for cruising these islands are May, June and September, there are fewer crowds, and in July and August the strong Meltemi winds blow.
Sample Itinerary - 10 days
Turkey
Day 1-2 Start off in Kusadasi and visit the ancient ruins of Ephesus, once ruled by Alexander the Great. If time permits take a tour inland to the spectacular limestone baths and mineral springs of Pammukale.
Day 3-4 Cruise down the coast finding secluded bays and beaches and head for Bodrum. A vibrant town with exciting shopping and nightlife
Day 5-6 Continue cruising the deep blue waters on your way to Marmaris where the buzzing bazaar will keep you entertained as you haggle for bargains, hand woven Turkish carpets and trinkets from this magical country.
Day 7 Follow the rugged mountainous landscape and swim in the crystal waters of Gocek and anchor beneath the pine forests and castle above the old village of Kekova. Snorkel amongst the remains of the Lycian sunken city.
Day 8 Fethiye has the best beaches nestled amongst old Byzantine ruins
Day 9 Take a walk around the amazing cliff tombs of Kas.
Day 10 Head back to Marmaris for your last refreshing swim and dont forget to take home a box of Turkish delights.
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