7-NT Turkey & Greek Isle Gems

Cruising through the Dardanelles strait - straddling Asia and Europe - Canakkale may sit at the narrowest part, but its history is one to broaden the mind. History and mythology merge in a city defined by its strategic location – Çanakkale is your entry point to the ancient city of Troy and the famous Gallipoli Battlefields. From the cruise ship you can spot the wooden Trojan horse on the vast yacht-lined waterfront promenade - serving a taster of what awaits.

Enter the blue azure-bay Bay of Izmir, watching the lively city approach with its distinctly Turkish skyline. The Pearl of the Aegean, Izmir has a rich heritage of multicultural influences, so the cuisine and communities are endlessly inviting.

Renowned for its religious history, Patmos is a picturesque Greek island that boasts hidden beaches, untouched landscapes and an authentic atmosphere. A dreamlike aura, volcanic landscapes and sacred sites; fall in love with an idyllic off-the-beaten-track island. Situated in the Aegean Sea, Patmos is where Saint John had the visions that inspired the Book of Revelation. For this reason, the island has been famous since early Christian times and is still a major pilgrimage destination.

Expect a warm welcome to Rhodes, with its magnificent scenery and flawless beaches, that legend has it was once blessed by Apollo with sunshine and beauty. With a rich medieval history there is plenty to explore at Rhodes, from the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, to the Grand Master's Palace is famed for its superb mosaic floors.

Nicknamed “The Isle of the Aromas”, Spetsai is a delight to all of the senses. The island’s historic old town is a yachtsman’s paradise, boasting a stunning harbour, quaint shops and some of the finest restaurants in the Saronic Gulf. The rest of the island is relatively unpopulated and is ringed by a single road, along which you can travel in a horse-drawn carriage. As you pass by quiet, rolling hills, be sure to pause at one of the many quiet coves along the way to refresh yourself with a dip into the cerulean waters.

Row upon row of ferries, fishing boats and luxury yachts that stretch out as far as the eye can see – Piraeus welcomes you to the ancient city of Athens.