Arrive in Athens and transfer to Lavrio, where we embark National Geographic Orion in the afternoon. Settle into your cabin and take in your first Aegean sunset at sea.
Thursday - Jul 24, 2025
Day 2
Delos, Greece
The island of Delos is one of the most important mythical and historical sites in Greece and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. In myth, it's the birthplace of the twin immortals Artemis, goddess of animals and the hunt, and Apollo, god of healing, music, and light. Spend a morning discovering the Terrace of the Lions and exquisite Temple of Apollo, two of the many incredible ruins preserved here. ... Read More
Friday - Jul 25, 2025
Day 3
Patmos, Greece
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. ... Read More
Saturday - Jul 26, 2025
Day 4
Chios, Greece
For centuries, Chios has exported mastic-a type of plant resin-throughout the world. Cultivated exclusively on the island, the resin is used in liqueurs, beauty products, and chewing gum. The product was once highly sought after by pirates and smugglers, and island villages were fortified with walls and watchtowers to protect the supplies. These medieval villages are uniquely beautiful, and we will have the opportunity to visit Pyrgi, known as the painted village for the black-and-gray geometric patterns adorning its buildings. ... Read More
Step back in time as we 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. ... Read More
Monday - Jul 28, 2025
Day 6
Bodrum, Turkey
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. Explore the exhibits, then delve into the rituals and customs surrounding Turk kahvesi, or Turkish coffee. The tradition is steeped in history and recognized on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list. Enjoy a cup, accompanied by a Turkish delight, a popular local confection. ... Read More
Tuesday - Jul 29, 2025
Day 7
Catalada, Turkey
The electric blue sea around Bodrum is a water lover's paradise, with a crystalline quality that is ideal for snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking. Your expedition leader and captain will select one of the nearby islands (either Orak or Catalada) to anchor off for a day of exploring above and beneath the water's surface. ... Read More
Wednesday - Jul 30, 2025
Day 8
Leros, Greece
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. The island is also a premier diving location-only Normandy has more shipwrecks in its coastal waters. ... Read More
Venture to remarkable Santorini-an island archipelago formed from a single volcanic cone that erupted 2,600 years ago, burying the resident Minoan culture in ash. Sail directly into the caldera and then drive through windswept vineyards to reach the spectacular hilltop town of Oia. Tour the Archaeology Museum and excavations at Akrotiri, an important Minoan town preserved under volcanic ash much like Pompeii, with remarkably intact houses, streets, pottery, and more. ... Read More
Spend the morning hiking to the lighthouse on the laid-back island of Paros, followed by water activities in the bordering turquoise sea. This afternoon, venture to Naxos and choose from several activities, including a cooking class, wine tasting, a walking tour of the citadel, or a pottery demonstration. The natural beauty, incredible food, and relaxed vibe of Paros and Naxos provide an authentic Greek experience. ... Read More
Cruise and Land Value Offers that combine with this sailing.
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