Athens (Piraeus)
Optional Private Excursions
Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!
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Piraeus: The Ancient City of Athens - 8 Hours
Dominated by the remarkable Parthenon, which has stood for over 2,000 years, Athens is a city of major architectural and archaeological treasures. At Piraeus Port you will receive a warm welcome from your guide and driver who provides a captivating insight into the city’s history and culture during your full day tour.
For most, the highlight of a visit to Athens is the world famous Acropolis and the Parthenon. Dedicated to the Goddess Athena, it is one of the most important ancient monuments in the Western world. This afternoon, delight in the mesmerising display of eclectic Greek and Oriental art at the Benaki Museum. Complete your day with a drive past the Panethenaic Stadium, the pure marble masterpiece that served as the original site for the modern Olympics. At the end of the tour you are privately transferred back to your cruise ship.
Highlights:
- Ascend the Acropolis to the Parthenon, one of the most important ancient monuments in the Western world
- Tour the Benaki Museum
Tour Duration: 8 Hours
Tour Can Operate: Morning/ Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Private transport by luxury car or minivan
- An expert local guide for 8 hours
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
All taxes
Exclusions:
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
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Piraeus: Cape Sounion - 5 hours
Meet your guide as you disembark your cruise ship in Piraeus and venture along the scenic coast to Cape Sounion where you visit the ancient ruined Temple of Poseidon. This temple is believed to date from the 5th century BC and was built to honour Poseidon, who ranked second only to Athena herself in terms of power. The Temple enjoys an impressive position, high on the cliffs, and has, over the centuries, been marked by many travellers’ carved signatures, including that of Lord Byron. After touring the site, you return to your cruise ship in Piraeus.
Highlights:
- Venture along the coast to Cape Sounion to the ancient ruins of the Temple of Poseidon
Tour Duration: 5 hours
Tour can Operate: Morning/ Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Low
Inclusions:
• Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
• An expert A&K local guide (5 hours)
• Entrance fees
• All taxes
Exclusions:
• All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
• Gratuities
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11/10/2022 |
11/10/2022 |
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Soudha Bay (Chania)
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11/11/2022 |
11/11/2022 |
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At Sea
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11/12/2022 |
11/12/2022 |
Haifa
Optional Private Excursions
Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!
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Jewish Highlights - Galilee & Golan Heights - One Day - Haifa Port
Highlights:
Depart Haifa driving to Tzipori (Sepphoris), the Talmudic town where the Mishna was signed; see the beautiful mosaics. Continue to Capernaum; see the ruins of the ancient synagogue dating back to the 4th century. Then, ascend the strategic Golan Heights for a greater understanding of the fierce battles that took place during the 1967 Six Day War and the 1973 Yom Kippur War. Stop at a former Israeli army bunker used as an outpost. Continue to a Golan winery for some wine tasting (time & schedule permitting). On your return to Haifa Port, view the golden-domed Bahai Shrine and the colorful Persian Gardens atop Mt. Carmel.
Tour Duration: One Day
Tour can operate: Morning – full day tour
Wheelchair Accessible: yes, itinerary may be adjusted
Physical Activity Level: moderate
Inclusions:
- Pick up and drop off - passenger terminal
Not Included:
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Jewish Highlights - Jerusalem - One Day - Haifa Port
Highlights:
Depart Haifa and drive to Jerusalem. Begin the day with a magnificent view of Jerusalem from the Mt. of Olives. Enter the Old City from the Jaffa Gate to the newly restored Jewish Quarter. Walk along the Cardo, the colonnaded main street of Byzantine Jerusalem. Visit the Herodian Mansions, a com- pletely excavated residential quarter from 2000 years ago. On to the Western Wall, the only remaining portion of the Second Temple. Visit the Davidson Center; you’ll see a fantastic com- puter imaging presentation of the Temple Mount some 2000 years ago. Return to the port in Haifa. (Modest Clothing)
Tour Duration: One Day
Tour can operate: Morning – full day tour
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes, itinerary may be adjusted
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Pick up and drop off - passenger terminal
Not Included:
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1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Nazareth and the Sea of Galilee
Overview
Our Private Shore Excursions make the most of your brief time in Israel. Our port-to-port customized itineraries deliver an engaging and seamless experience.
- Experience breathtaking beauty of the Sea of Galilee
- Visit the Christian Holy sites in Galilee
- Explore Nazareth, childhood home of Jesus
Itinerary Highlights
- Enjoy an overview of Haifa from the top of Mount Carmel, including the Bahai Gardens
- Visit the Basilica of the Annunciation in Nazareth - boyhood home of Jesus
- Enjoy the spectacular view of the Sea of Galilee from the Mount of Beatitudes, the traditional site of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount
- Visit the church at Tabgha, the site of Jesus’ miracle of the Multiplication of Loaves & Fishes
- Visit the ancient synaguge at Capernaum, site of Jesus’ ministry in Galilee
One (1) day of private guide with deluxe air-conditioned vehicle.
Entrance fees and activities per itinerary
Destination Visited
- Mount Carmel
- Nazareth
- The Sea of Galilee
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1-day Shore Excursion from Haifa: Akko Caesarea
Overview
Our Private Shore Excursions make the most of your brief time in Israel. Our port-to-port customized itineraries deliver an engaging and seamless experience.
- Enjoy the beauty of Northern Israel
- Explore historical sites of Caesarea and Akko
Itinerary Highlights
- Enjoy an overview of Haifa from the top of Mount Carmel, including the Bahai Gardens
- Explore the ancient port city of Caesarea, including excavations from Roman, Byzantine, and Crusader periods
- Visit the ancient Phoenician and Crusader seaport of Akko, including the underground Knight’s chambers, the Templar tunnel, and the Hospitaller Castle
One (1) day of private guide with deluxe air-conditioned vehicle.
Entrance fees and activities per itinerary
Destinations Visited
- Mount Carmel
- Caesarea
- Akko
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2 days/1 night Shore Excursion from Haifa - Sea of Galilee, Nazareth, Jerusalem and Bethlehem
Overview
Our Private Shore Excursions make the most of your brief time in Israel. Our port-to-port customized itineraries deliver an engaging and seamless experience.
- Experience breathtaking beauty of the Sea of Galilee
- Visit the Christian Holy sites in Galilee
- Explore Nazareth, childhood home of Jesus
- Walk the Jewish Quarter of the Old City
- Explore the Holy sites of the Christian Quarter
- Experience the grace and sophistication of New Jerusalem
- Visit to Bethlehem
Itinerary Highlights
- Enjoy an overview of Haifa from the top of Mount Carmel, including the Bahai Gardens
- Visit the Basilica of the Annunciation in Nazareth - boyhood home of Jesus
- Enjoy the spectacular view of the Sea of Galilee from the Mount of Beatitudes, the traditional site of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount
- Visit the church at Tabgha, the site of Jesus’ miracle of the Multiplication of Loaves & Fishes
- Visit the ancient synagogue at Capernaum, site of Jesus’ ministry in Galilee
- Enjoy a magnificent panoramic view of Old & New Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives
- Visit the Garden of Gethsemane and the Basilica of the Agony
- Visit the ancient synagogues and stroll through the Cardo - the reconstructed main street of Byzantine Jerusalem
- View the Temple Mount with the Dome of the Rock & the Al Aqsa Mosque
- Touch the Western Wall - Judaism’s holiest site
- Walk the final Stations of the Cross along the Via Dolorosa and visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre
- Visit the Room of the Last Supper, in which, according to the Gospel accounts, Jesus shared his last meal with the disciples.
- Visit Manger Square and the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, birthplace of Jesus
One (1) night accommodation per requested hotel.
Two (2) days of private guide with deluxe air-conditioned vehicle.
Entrance fees and activities per itinerary
Destinations Visited
- Mount Carmel
- Nazareth
- The Sea of Galilee
- Jerusalem Old City
- The Western Wall
- Church of the Holy Sepulchre
- Bethlehem
*Bethlehem is under Palestinian Authority, and change of vehicle will be required at the border post. The tour will be guided by a Palestinian guide.
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11/13/2022 |
11/14/2022 |
Ashdod
Optional Private Excursions
Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!
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Jewish Highlights - Jerusalem - One Day - Ashdod Port
Highlights:
Depart Ashdod and drive to Jerusalem beginning with a magnificent view of the golden city from the Mt. of Olives. Enter the Old City to the restored Jewish Quarter. Walk along the Cardo, the colonnaded main street of Byzantine Jerusalem. Visit the Herodian Mansions, a completely excavated resi- dential quarter from 2000 years ago. On to the Western Wall, the only remaining portion of the Second Temple. Follow the Via Dolorosa to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. We then proceed to Yad Vashem, memorial to the Holocaust; visit the Museum, Children’s Pavilion and walk along the Avenue of the Righteous. Return to the port of Ashdod. (Modest clothing required)
Tour Duration: One Day
Tour can operate: Morning – full day tour
Wheelchair Accessible: yes, itinerary may be adjusted
Physical Activity Level: moderate
Inclusions:
- Pick up and drop off - passenger terminal
Not Included:
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Masada & the Dead Sea - One Day - Ashdod Port
Highlights:
Travel along the shores of the Dead Sea, the lowest place on earth, to Masada. Ascend by cable car to this last stronghold of the Zealots in their struggle against the Romans. Visit the excavations, Herod the Great’s palace, synagogue and bath-house. Then, opportunity to enjoy an “unsinkable” swim in the buoyant waters of the Dead Sea. Drive via the Qumran Caves, where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found, on your return to Ashdod.
Tour Duration: One Day
Tour can operate: Morning – full day tour
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes, itinerary may be adjusted
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Pick up and drop off - passenger terminal
Not Included:
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Tel Aviv & Surrounding Area - One Day - Ashdod Port
Highlights:
Depart Ashdod to the pre-state underground Ammunitions Factory at Machon Ayalon to learn about the activities of the Haganah. Then, drive through the main streets of Tel Aviv, the “White City”, proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site, viewing the splendid Bauhaus Architecture. Tel Aviv has the largest number of buildings in this unique style of any city in the world! Continue past the Mann Auditorium, home of the Israeli Philharmonic, Habimah Theatre, the impressive Opera House and Yitzhak Rabin Square, dedicated to the late Prime Minister. On to the old port city of Jaffa, magnificently restored.
Explore the reconstructed Artists’ Quarter with its galleries and boutiques. Visit the fantastic Israeli Museum at the Itzhak Rabin Center chronicling the life of the extraordinary leader as well as the development of the State of Israel. Time permitting, we’ll stroll through Tel Aviv’s Carmel Market (be sure to sample the delicious strawberries! ) before return- ing to the Port of Ashdod.
Tour Duration: One Day
Tour can operate: Morning – full day tour
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes, itinerary may be adjusted
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Pick up and drop off - passenger terminal
Not Included:
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2 days/1 night shore excursion from Haifa or Ashdod - Jerusalem and Masada
Overview:
Our Private Shore Excursions make the most of your brief time in Israel. Our port-to-port customized itineraries deliver an engaging and seamless experience.
- Enjoy breathtaking nature of Southern Israel.
- Visit the historic sites of Masada and Qumran caves
- Explore the roots of three religions while walking in the Old City of Jerusalem
- Experience the beauty of Jerusalem - old and new - from Mount Scopus
- Walk the Rothschild Boulevard and visit the Biblical city of Jaffa
Itinerary Highlights:
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Float in The Dead Sea, the lowest place on Earth
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Enjoy the beauty of the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve
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Visit Masada - a World Heritage Site
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View and walk the Qumran Caves
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Visit the Al-Aqsa Mosque, the third holiest site in Sunni Islam
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Overview of Jerusalem from the top of Mount of Olives
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Walk along the Via Dolorosa and visit the Church of Holy Sepulchre
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Walk the Rothschild Boulevard known for its extensive collection of historic buildings of the Bauhaus era
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Visit the Biblical port city of Jaffa
One (1) night accommodation per requested hotel
Two (2) days of private guided deluxe air-conditioned vehicle. Entrance fees and activities per itinerary
Destination Visited:
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1-day shore excursion from Ashdod: Jerusalem Old & New
Overview:
Our Private Shore Excursions make the most of your brief time in Israel. Our port-to-port customized itineraries deliver an engaging and seamless experience.
- Walk the Jewish Quarter of the Old City
- Explore the Holy sites of the Christian Quarter
- Visit traditional Middle Eastern bazaars
- Experience the grace and sophistication of New Jerusalem
Itinerary Highlights:
- Enjoy a magnificent panoramic view of Old & New Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives
- Visit the ancient synagogues and stroll through the Cardo - the reconstructed main street of Byzantine Jerusalem
- View the Temple Mount with the Dome of the Rock & the Al Aqsa Mosque
- Touch the Western Wall - Judaism’s holiest site
- Walk the final Stations of the Cross along the Via Dolorosa and visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre
- Drive through New Jerusalem, past the Jerusalem Theater, the President’s Residence and the Knesset - Israel’s Parliament
- Visit the Israel Museum to view the Model of Jerusalem from Second Temple period and the Shrine of the Book, where the Dead Sea Scrolls are housed
One (1) day of private guide with deluxe air-conditioned vehicle.
Entrance fees and activities per itinerary
Destinations Visited:
- Jerusalem Old City
- The Western Wall
- Church of the Holy Sepulchre
- The Israel Museum
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1-day shore excursion from Ashdod: Jerusalem & Bethlehem
Overview:
Our Private Shore Excursions make the most of your brief time in Israel. Our port-to-port customized itineraries deliver an engaging and seamless experience.
- Walk the Jewish Quarter of the Old City
- Explore the Holy sites of the Christian Quarter
- Experience the grace and sophistication of New Jerusalem
- Visit to Bethlehem
Itinerary Highlights:
- Enjoy a magnificent panoramic view of Old & New Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives
- Visit the Garden of Gethsemane and the Basilica of the Agony
- Visit the ancient synagogues and stroll through the Cardo - the reconstructed main street of Byzantine Jerusalem
- View the Temple Mount with the Dome of the Rock & the Al Aqsa Mosque
- Touch the Western Wall - Judaism’s holiest site
- Walk the final Stations of the Cross along the Via Dolorosa and visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre
- Visit the Room of the Last Supper, in which, according to the Gospel accounts, Jesus shared his last meal with the disciples.
- Visit Manger Square and the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, birthplace of Jesus
One (1) day of private guide and deluxe air-conditioned vehicle.
Entrance fees and activities per itinerary
Destinations Visited:
- Jerusalem Old City
- The Western Wall
- Church of the Holy Sepulchre
- Bethlehem
*Bethlehem is under Palestinian Authority, and change of vehicle will be required at the border post. The tour will be guided by a Palestinian guide.
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11/15/2022 |
11/15/2022 |
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At Sea
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11/16/2022 |
11/16/2022 |
Antalya
Optional Private Excursions
Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!
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Antalya: The Greco-Roman Heritage of Antalya, Perge & Side - 7 hours
An English speaking private lecturer/guide will meet you at Antalya pier at 9 am for departure by chauffeur driven a/c deluxe minivan, to start your private sightseeing tour of Antalya.
First, you will drive to Perge, the largest ancient settling of both Hellenistic and Roman Age, which possesses a Roman Bath, Colonnaded Street, Agora, Stadium, and Water Aqueduct. These structures are in good order and well protected after the excavation.
Continue to Aspendos, the best preserved Roman Theatre in the World which is still in use. This 15.000 seated theatre hosts many concerts and competitions, during the Song Festival.
The third impressive site is Side whose name meant "Pomegranate" in antiquity. Today, it is a pretty Resort Town with two sandy beaches, many shops along the ancient street as well as Theatre, Agora, ancient harbor, archeological museum. This triangle historical tour ends at Manavgat Waterfalls with refreshment break at the edge of showering water drops.
Lunch will be served at a selected local seafood restaurant by the pier.
At the end of the tour, you will be transferred back to your cruise ship by 5pm.
Added Value:
*Great introduction to the ancient cities of Perge, Aspendos and Side's history and culture
*The tour covers the main highlights in Antalya
Tour Duration : 8 hours
Tour can operate: Starting mornings
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Included: Transportation by a chauffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums
Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses
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11/17/2022 |
11/17/2022 |
Rhodes
Optional Private Excursions
Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!
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Rhodes Town & Lindos - Full day tour approx 8 hours
Guests will be met by our English speaking guide to commence the tour. Upon completion of the tour, transfer will be provided back to the ship.
Our tour begins with a drive through Mandraki Harbour and the new part of the city of Rhodes. We make our way to Mount Smith to enjoy a panoramic view of the city and continue on to the ruins of ancient Rhodes. We will explore the Acropolis of Rhodes, where remains of the Temple of Apollo and the ancient Stadium of Diagoras dominate the skyline. At Porte d’ Amboise, we begin our walking tour through the old city of Rhodes, filled with historical reminders of the ancient and medieval past. We will walk through the northern part of town, where knights once lived, and view the Grand Master’s Palace and then continue our walk down Chevalier’s Road, and the shopping districts around Socratus street, where we will enjoy some free time.
Our drive continues along the picturesque coastline to Lindos, the most important of the three great cities of ancient times. Within its medieval walls, erected by the Knights of St. John, stands the ancient Acropolis of Lindos, 400 feet above the sea, crowned by the Temple of Athena. From the heights, you will have breathtaking views of St. Paul’s Bay, where the Apostle cast anchor during his voyage to Ephesus, and the Aegean Sea. If you prefer not to make the climb, you may remain below and explore the village with its many small shops and cafes. At a set time, we will all gather for a wonderful luncheon at a Restaurant by the sea, where we will enjoy an array of local Greek specialties with beverages. After lunch, we will have some free time to enjoy the beach or do some shopping in the village of Lindos prior to returning to the Port.
Duration: approx. 8 hours
Notes:
• The Grand Masters Palace is closed on Mondays
• Steep, uphill walking is involved in Lindos. Guests with walking disabilities are recommended to stay in Lindos town for shopping.
• It is recommended that guests wear flat, comfortable walking shoes.
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Rhodes Medieval town & Lindos Tour approx 5 1/2 hours
Depart Rhodes Town and drive along the east coast to Lindos, one of the three ancient cities on the island, and enjoy a visit of the famous Acropolis. Lindos offers breathtaking views and photo opportunities of the entire village, including its Medieval castle, superb sandy beaches and charming whitewashed, sugar-cubed houses. After a walking tour through the narrow-cobbled streets, colorful courtyards and mosaics, we will return to Rhodes town.
Back in Rhodes town, begin a walking tour of the old city from the Gate D'Amboise. Marvel at the imposing Palace of the Grand Masters (visit not included) and walk on the Street of the Knights, while your guide points out the facades of the many inns once occupied by the crusaders and at the end of the street, the Knight's Hospital, now an impressive Archaeological Museum. Enjoy some free time to explore on your own, before meeting your guide for the short ride back to the pier or your hotel.
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Lindos half day tour 4 1/2 hours
Depart Rhodes Town and drive along the east coast to Lindos, one of the three ancient cities on the island, and enjoy a visit of the famous Acropolis. Lindos offers breathtaking views and photo opportunities of the entire village, including its Medieval castle, superb sandy beaches and charming whitewashed, sugar-cubed houses. After a walking tour through the narrow-cobbled streets, colorful courtyards and mosaics, we will return to Rhodes town.
Enjoy some free time to explore on your own, before meeting your guide for the short ride back to the pier or your hotel.
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Rhodes & Filermos half day tour approx. 4 1/2 hours
After meeting your professionally trained guide, you will drive to Filerimos, a large plateau which contains the ruins of several buildings including the foundations of a temple, an Early Christian Basilica and a Byzantine monastery. Continue with a drive along the seaside road of the city to the ancient Acropolis of Rhodes where the ruins of a stadium and the Temple of Apolonas, will be seen during a short description and photo opportunity.
Next, visit the Old Town starting at the Gate d’Amboise. Visit the imposing Palace of the Grand Masters and walk the Street of the Knights down to the Knight's hospital. Admire the facades of what used to be the Inns of the Knights, nowadays shops and private residences. Enjoy some free time to explore on your own, before meeting with your guide for the short ride back to the hotel/ ship
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11/18/2022 |
11/18/2022 |
Kusadasi (Ephesus)
Optional Private Excursions
Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!
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Kusadasi: Ancient Ephesus Tour - 7 hours
An English speaking lecturer/guide will meet the guests at the exit of the cruise pier in KUSADASI.
After a short drive to Ephesus, the guests experience their private tour of this fascinating historical site. First, a visit will be made to the remarkable Greco-Roman archeological city of Ancient Ephesus, that flourished as a prominent cultural city and seaport between 600 BC and 500 AD.
The walking tour will begin along the Royal Road also known as the Arcadian Way, the 4th century white marble chariot thoroughfare whose most striking sight today is the two-story Library of Celsus. Uniquely beautiful, the Library once housed 12,000 scrolls of papyrus manuscripts making it the second largest library in the ancient world after the one in Alexandria, Egypt. The walk along the Royal Road also takes the visitors past the remains of some of the ancient city’s major civic buildings and temples as you move toward the Ephesus Theater from which St. Paul once preached to the Pagan Ephesians. The theater, seating 25,000 has exceptional acoustics and is still in use today for concerts and theatrical performances in summertime.
Then move to see the ongoing excavations of the Greco-Roman places-the “Elite Yamac Homes of Antiquity” (Terrace Houses) with their magnificent mosaics and frescoes.
From here, the guests will proceed to the small, but distinguished and rightly famous Ephesus Museum with unique examples of the very best Greco-Roman sculpture in the world, and with an exciting new display of Medical instruments from that era.
Finally, drive up the mountainside to visit to the so-called House of the Virgin Mary, a lovely chapel set in the hills behind Ephesus, said by some to be the last home of the Virgin Mary, where St. Paul took her for her safety away from the Pagan Ephesians.
At the end of the tour, you will be transferred to your hotel or to your cruise ship.
Added Value:
*Great introduction to Greco-Roman city of Ephesus' history and culture
*The tour covers the main highlights of the ancient city
Tour Duration : 6-7 hours
Tour can operate: Starting mornings
Wheelchair Accessible: Partial
Physical Activity Level: High
Included: Transportation by a cheaffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums
Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses
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Kusadasi: Priene Day Tour - 7 hours
The guests will be met by a lecturer/guide at the exit of the pier in KUSADASI and drive south to visit Priene.
This ancient city is not especially large, but has an unusual intimacy and charm, in part because so many historical private houses have survived to this day. All the monuments you will see, date from the Hellenistic period, and all of them are aligned according to a strict grid-plan of the kind developed by Hippodamos, a native of neighboring Miletus. The monuments include the Temple of Zeus, a council chamber, and a small amphi-theatre. Yet Priene’s greatest treasure is its Temple of Athena, which was considered the masterpiece of the architect Pytheos who also designed the Mausoleum at Halicarnassos (Bodrum) known to be one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
After exploring Priene, the guests will cross the broad flood-plain of the river Maeander to continue to Miletus. This was once a major port but silt carried down by the River Meander blocked its harbor centuries ago. The ancient harbor is now several miles from the sea. The town is laid out according to a grid-plan designed by Hippodamos, which centers on three spacious agoras (marketplaces) today. The most striking features of the site today are the Baths of Faustina and the massive Roman Theatre.
A paved Sacred Way leads from Miletus to Dydima, not a classic town but rather a sacred precinct centering on a colossal Temple of Apollo surrounded by a double colonnade of no less than 108 huge columns. Work on the temple continued for 500 years, but its design was so ambitious that, when work was abandoned in the 4th C. AD, it was still unfinished. Even unfinished and in ruins, the temple at Dydima remains to be one of the most awe-inspiring antique monuments to be found anywhere around the Eastern Mediterranean.
At the end of the tour, the guests will be escorted back to their hotel or to the pier in KUSADASI.
Added Value:
*The tour covers the main highlights of Priene, Miletus and Didyma
Tour Duration : 7 hours
Tour can operate: Starting mornings
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Included: Transportation by a chaeffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums
Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses
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Kusadasi: The Greco-Roman City of Ephesus & the Wine-making Village of Sirince - 7 hours
At 8:30 am, an English speaking private lecturer/guide will meet and greet you outside the Bonded Area of the Kusadasi cruise pier. You will then be escorted to your chauffeur driven private deluxe air-conditioned vehicle, for a comfortable ride of about half an hour to the remarkable Greco-Roman archaeological site of Ancient Ephesus. Dating back to the 11th century B.C., it has been painstakingly excavated and restored and is one of the world’s most fascinating sites of antiquity. Ephesus flourished as a prominent city and seaport between 600 B.C. and 500 A.D. We will begin our private walking tour along Royal Road also known as the Arcadian Way, a 4th century white marble chariot thoroughfare whose most striking sight is the two-story Library of Celsus.
Uniquely beautiful, with its restored facade now the famed symbol of Ephesus, the Library once housed 12,000 scrolls of papyrus manuscripts making it the 2nd largest in the ancient world after the library in Alexandria, Egypt. Your walk along the Royal Road will also take you past the remains of some of the ancient city’s major civic buildings and temples as you move toward the Ephesus Theater from which St. Paul once preached to the Ephesians. The theater, seating 25,000 has exceptional acoustics and is still in use today for concerts and theatrical performances.
You will also visit the ongoing excavations of the Greco Roman PALACES the ''ELITE YAMAC HOMES OF ANTIQUITY'' (Terrace Houses) with their magnificent mosaics and frescoes being restored by archeologists as you visit the site.
Next visit will be to the old Greco-Turkish Village of SIRINCE, located approximately 18 miles away from the Kusadasi pier. The town itself houses about hundreds of old local Greek homes which have been superbly renovated and opened to the public.. The town also houses an authentic local market where different agricultural products are sold.
Following lunch (at your own cost) at the celebrated local Bizim Ev (meaning “Our House”) Restaurant in Sirince, you will stop by the famous wine cellar of this village, to be welcomed by the owner, and will taste his white or red wines, produced in the same style as in the old days from grapes at the vast vineyards of the Aegean Region.
You will then be returned to Kusadasi where you may explore or shop at the charming local marketplace, while your guide will escort and assist you until you wish to return to the pier to board your ship by 4 pm.
Added Value:
*Great introduction to Ephesus and Sirince
*The tour covers Ephesus and the wine-making village of Sirince
Tour Duration : 7 hours
Tour can operate: Starting mornings
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Included: Transportation by a chauffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums
Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses
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11/19/2022 |
11/19/2022 |
Mykonos
Optional Private Excursions
Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!
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Mykonos Island Tour - Half Day Tour
Guests will be met by our English speaking guide to commence the tour. Upon completion of the tour, transfer will be provided back to the ship.
During this tour you will see and visit the most interesting places of the island. First destination is the beach of Saint Ioannis with the picturesque little church. At this quaint little church you will be able to see the interior of a typical Greek Church (more than four hundred on the island).
Following the route past Ornos beach, San Stefano beach, and Tourlos harbour continuing to the distant beaches of Kalafatis and Santa Anna. Later on you will have the opportunity to visit the village of Ano Mera, which is well known for the monastery Panagia Tourliani and the typical little square surrounded by traditional Greek taverns. After visiting the monastery and enjoying the magnificent views, we shall return to Mykonos town.
Starting from the Yacht club at old port you will stroll around the narrow alleys of Mykonos, visiting Manto Mavrogenous square, the unique church of Parapaportiani, the lovely Little Venice, the magnificent Windmills. The numerous souvenir shops, the cafes at the waterfront were you can see the pelicans being fed from people, create a unique atmosphere that no one can forget. Colours such as blue and white remind that the island has remained untouched throughout the years. Free time at the end is recommended.
Upon completion of the tour, you will be transferred back to the port of Mykonos.
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Mykonos: Stunning Mykonos - 4 hours
Mykonos town is best known for its whitewashed buildings and today you have an introductory tour through its labyrinth of cobbled streets. Meet your driver and guide at the port before seeing the iconic windmills and the area known as Little Venice, where coloured balconies adorn the white facades and hang above the lapping waves. If of interest, you may like to visit the Maritime Museum, which exhibits ship models from the early Minoan period until the 20th century. Alternatively, you could explore the many jewellery shops and boutiques. Finish your tour with a visit to a traditional local bakery before your private transfer back to your cruise ship.
Highlights:
- Explore the whitewashed houses and beaches of Mykonos and discover seafaring heritage dating back to pre-Minoan times at the Maritime Museum
- Admire the island's iconic windmills and taste the delicacies at a local bakery
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Tour Can Operate: Morning/Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
• Private transport by luxury car or minivan
• An expert local guide for 4 hours
• Entrance fees to all sights and museums
• All taxes
Exclusions:
• All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
• Gratuities
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Delos island tour approx 4 hours
Delos, once a Sacred Island, is the legendary birthplace of the Sun God Apollo and his twin sister Artemis. Its religious significance coupled with a good harbour and strategic location on the Aegean trade routes enabled Delos to flourish for 500 years. Today, the only remaining inhabitants are its treasured ruins and their caretakers.
Visit the marbled streets of the Agora and Sacred Way, the Sanctuary of Apollo, the theatre, the Sanctuary of the Foreign Gods and the Sacred Mount Cynthus. View the remains of a Hellenistic Quarter with its harbours, water houses and luxurious villas, including the Houses of Cleopatra, the Dolphin, the Masks and the House of Dionyssos. Marvel at the spectacular Avenue of the Lions, where five proud Naxian marble beasts from the 7th Century BC crouch, vigilant guardians of the Sacred Lake, which stands dry today. A small museum on the island displays artefacts from the site.
Tips: Wear flat, comfortable walking shoes, there is a lot of walking over cobbled paths. Carry a cold bottle of water with you on hot days, wear lots of sunscreen and preferably a hat, as there is no shade on the island
Inclusions: Licensed English-speaking guide / Round trip transfers in Sedan taxi/ Deluxe A/C minibus /Round trip ferry tickets to Delos Island / Entrance fees to indicated sites /Taxes
Exclusions: Gratuities / Personal expenses /anything not mentioned above /
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Mykonos full day cruise approx 9 hours
ITINERARY: South Coast of Mykonos – Dragonisi
We depart from Platys Gialos Port and sail at low speed to view the VIP beach of Psarou from a different perspective. We continue our trip towards Ornos Beach and end up at the last southwestern beach of Mykonos, known as Glyfadi. Then we speed up and sail past the famous southern beaches of Mykonos (Paranga, Paradise, Super Paradise, Agrari, Elia, KaloLivadi, Agia Anna, Kalafatis, Lia, and Fragia) and head off towards an isolated island called Dragonisi, reachable only by private yacht. There we stop off to enjoy a swim at a uniquely beautiful beach. Snorkelling gear is provided for those who are interested in exploring the beautiful underwater environment. On our way back we stop off at Agrari Beach for more swimming and snorkelling in the blue sea or water sports for the more athletic. Our trip ends at the port of Platys Gialos. One of the major advantages of this itinerary is that it is not affected by weather conditions as the yacht sails close to the coast.
Included:
An 8 to 9 hours cruise at Mykonos Island/ The fuel consumption for the aforementioned itinerary (1,5 cruising hours)/ a captain/ a multilingual crew member/ a bottle of wine per 4 persons/ Water & a fruit salad/ Snorkeling equipment is provided on board,
Not Included: Lunch, return transfer from port to hotel , any services not mentioned
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11/20/2022 |
11/20/2022 |
Athens (Piraeus)
Optional Private Excursions
Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!
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Piraeus: The Ancient City of Athens - 8 Hours
Dominated by the remarkable Parthenon, which has stood for over 2,000 years, Athens is a city of major architectural and archaeological treasures. At Piraeus Port you will receive a warm welcome from your guide and driver who provides a captivating insight into the city’s history and culture during your full day tour.
For most, the highlight of a visit to Athens is the world famous Acropolis and the Parthenon. Dedicated to the Goddess Athena, it is one of the most important ancient monuments in the Western world. This afternoon, delight in the mesmerising display of eclectic Greek and Oriental art at the Benaki Museum. Complete your day with a drive past the Panethenaic Stadium, the pure marble masterpiece that served as the original site for the modern Olympics. At the end of the tour you are privately transferred back to your cruise ship.
Highlights:
- Ascend the Acropolis to the Parthenon, one of the most important ancient monuments in the Western world
- Tour the Benaki Museum
Tour Duration: 8 Hours
Tour Can Operate: Morning/ Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Private transport by luxury car or minivan
- An expert local guide for 8 hours
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
All taxes
Exclusions:
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
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Piraeus: Cape Sounion - 5 hours
Meet your guide as you disembark your cruise ship in Piraeus and venture along the scenic coast to Cape Sounion where you visit the ancient ruined Temple of Poseidon. This temple is believed to date from the 5th century BC and was built to honour Poseidon, who ranked second only to Athena herself in terms of power. The Temple enjoys an impressive position, high on the cliffs, and has, over the centuries, been marked by many travellers’ carved signatures, including that of Lord Byron. After touring the site, you return to your cruise ship in Piraeus.
Highlights:
- Venture along the coast to Cape Sounion to the ancient ruins of the Temple of Poseidon
Tour Duration: 5 hours
Tour can Operate: Morning/ Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Low
Inclusions:
• Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
• An expert A&K local guide (5 hours)
• Entrance fees
• All taxes
Exclusions:
• All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
• Gratuities
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11/21/2022 |
11/21/2022 |
