Discover the Ancient Treasures of the Mediterranean & Red Sea

Day 1: Ain Sokhna, Egypt

Welcome to Egypt and Ain Sokhna, where you’ll step aboard your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht ready to set sail on an unforgettable cruise of the Red Sea. Ain Sokhna presents a charming coastal town in a naturally beautiful setting, popular for its soft, yellow sand beaches, clear blue waters and stunning Red Sea views. 

Please book your flight to arrive into Cairo prior to 02:00 PM.

Docked: 21:00 

Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt

On the tip of Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula lies the glamorous resort city of Sharm El-Sheikh. Here, the desert meets the sea, creating an environment rich in biodiversity and a melting pot of cultures. Dive into the fascinating aquatic world beneath the Red Sea’s crystal-clear surface, stroll through the historic Old Market and bustling bazaars, or explore ancient mosques and the desert landscapes of the Sinai Peninsula.

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Snorkelling Trip at Ras Mohamed National Park (extra expense, must be pre-booked) 
Discover the natural beauty of Ras Mohamed National Park, one of the Sinai Peninsula’s most spectacular protected marine reserves. Located at the southern tip of Sharm El Sheikh, this pristine sanctuary is celebrated for its vibrant coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and extraordinary marine life. After a scenic drive and brief photo stop, explore the park’s unique mangrove forest before enjoying a guided snorkelling experience accompanied by professional instructors. Snorkelling equipment is provided, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in this underwater paradise. Guests may also choose to visit the famous Shark Observatory for breathtaking panoramic views across the Gulf of Aqaba.
Activity Level: Strenuous, Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes

Docked: 14:00 – 20:00 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Aqaba, Jordan 

A picturesque city located in the southern tip of Jordan overlooking the Red Sea, Aqaba is a history buffs’ delight for its rich history that dates back thousands of years.

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Guided Tour of Petra with Lunch Included (extra expense)
Discover the legendary “Lost City” of Petra, one of the world’s most extraordinary archaeological treasures and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hidden deep within the Jordanian desert and carved into vibrant rose-red sandstone cliffs, Petra has captivated travellers for centuries and was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Your journey begins with a scenic drive from Aqaba through dramatic desert landscapes to the ancient Nabataean city. Upon arrival, begin a guided walk through the famous Siq, a narrow winding gorge flanked by towering rock walls that leads dramatically to Petra’s most iconic monument, the breathtaking Treasury. Continue exploring the remarkable site, passing the Roman-style Theatre, the impressive Royal Tombs, the Colonnaded Street, and Qasr al-Bint, while your guide brings the fascinating history of this once-thriving trading centre to life. After the guided visit, enjoy free time to make your way back through Petra at your own pace, taking in the spectacular scenery and perhaps browsing for souvenirs. A buffet lunch is then served at the Mövenpick Resort before returning to Aqaba.
Activity Level: Strenuous, Duration: 10 hours

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A Tour Through History and Contemporary Charm (extra expense)
Discover the perfect blend of Aqaba’s rich history and modern coastal elegance on this engaging city tour along Jordan’s Red Sea coast. Accompanied by your professional English-speaking driver, begin your journey in Aqaba’s Old City with visits to the historic Sharif Hussein Bin Ali Castle and the Aqaba Museum, where fascinating exhibits showcase the region’s cultural and Islamic heritage. Continue to the impressive Flag Plaza, home to one of the tallest flagpoles in the world, offering panoramic views across the Red Sea and neighboring countries. The tour then takes you to the contemporary waterfront community of Ayla, where tranquil lagoons, stylish promenades, and scenic marina views create the perfect atmosphere for a relaxing stroll and leisure time by the sea. 
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 6 hours 

Docked: 07:00 - Overnight 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Aqaba, Jordan 

With archaeological sites such as the Aqaba Fort and the Ayla ruins showcasing its ancient past. Aqaba also serves as a gateway to the ancient city of Petra and Wadi Rum desert.

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Wadi Rum Desert Adventure with Lunch Included (extra expense)
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Wadi Rum, one of Jordan’s most spectacular desert landscapes and a UNESCO World Heritage Site shaped by wind and time over millions of years. Journey through vast valleys of towering sandstone mountains and dramatic rock formations glowing in shades of red, gold, and orange. Upon arrival at the Visitor Centre, board a 4x4 jeep for an unforgettable exploration of this legendary desert, once home to ancient nomads and famously featured in films such as Lawrence of Arabia. Along the way, stop for incredible photo opportunities and experience the remarkable silence of the desert. Enjoy traditional Bedouin hospitality with tea and oriental sweets before savoring an authentic lunch at a desert camp surrounded by unforgettable scenery.
Activity Level: Strenuous, Duration: 6 hours 

Docked: Overnight - 21:00 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Hurghada, Egypt

Renowned for its stunning natural beauty, Hurghada offers a wide range of water sports and recreational activities. Its rich history and distinctive culture make this Egyptian beach resort town a remarkable destination along the Red Sea. 

Included Excursion
Soma Bay Beach Break 
Escape to the beautiful shores of Soma Bay, a stunning peninsula along Egypt’s Red Sea Riviera renowned for its crystal-clear waters, golden sandy beaches, and year-round sunshine. This relaxing beach break offers the perfect opportunity to unwind and enjoy a carefree day by the sea. After a scenic drive from Hurghada, arrive at the exclusive resort where sun beds, umbrellas, and towels will be provided for your comfort. Spend the day exactly as you wish — relax on the private sandy beach, take a refreshing swim in the warm Red Sea, or simply soak up the peaceful atmosphere while enjoying spectacular coastal views. For those seeking a little more adventure, optional water sports are available directly through the resort’s water sports centre for an additional charge. Shuttle transfers back to the ship operate approximately every two hours, allowing flexibility throughout the day. 
Activity Level: Easy, Duration: 8 hours 30 minutes 

Docked: 12:00 – 20:00 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Safaga, Egypt

You’ll find it Safaga  relatively small and quiet, with a laid-back atmosphere perfect for those looking to relax and unwind. In addition to its natural beauty, Safaga is also renowned for its therapeutic hot springs, which are believed to have healing properties for various ailments.

EmeraldPLUS
Luxor Experience with Lunch Included 
Journey deep into the heart of ancient Egypt on an unforgettable full-day excursion from Safaga to Luxor, once the magnificent capital of the Pharaohs. Travelling through dramatic desert landscapes and rugged mountain scenery, your guide will introduce you to the rich history and legends of Upper Egypt along the way. Upon arrival in Luxor, cross to the West Bank to explore the legendary Valley of the Kings, where generations of pharaohs were laid to rest in elaborately decorated tombs hidden beneath the desert hills. Visit three remarkable royal tombs and admire the vivid colours and intricate hieroglyphics that have survived for thousands of years. Continue with a photo stop at the towering Colossi of Memnon, the last remains of the grand mortuary temple of Amenophis III. After enjoying lunch at a leading hotel in Luxor, continue to the immense Karnak Temple Complex, one of the greatest religious sites ever built. Walk among colossal columns in the vast Hypostyle Hall, discover sacred avenues lined with sphinxes, and admire the scale and splendour of this extraordinary ancient sanctuary. En route, enjoy views of Luxor Temple from the coach before beginning the return journey to Safaga.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 13 hours

Docked: 06:00 – 21:00 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: At sea

As you cruise to your next exciting destination, you’ll have another opportunity to relish   more relaxing downtime at sea. Enjoy the lavish comforts of your stylish yacht — slide into the infinity-style pool where the azure water appears to blur with the horizon, ascend to the Sky Deck to drink in panoramic views, or simply relax in the Observation Lounge.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Transit through the Suez Canal

Today we cross the Suez Canal before reaching Egypt’s Ain Sokhna. The Suez Canal, built by Ferdinand de Lesseps and completed in 1869, carves through 162km of desert, linking the Mediterranean to the Red Sea.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: At sea

As you cruise to your next exciting destination, you’ll have another opportunity to relish more relaxing downtime at sea. Enjoy the lavish comforts of your stylish yacht — slide into the infinity-style pool where the azure water appears to blur with the horizon, ascend to the Sky Deck to drink in panoramic views, or simply relax in the Observation Lounge.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10: Paphos, Cyprus

The ancient seaport of Paphos is the birthplace of Aphrodite and the entire town is a UNESCO World Heritage site. One of the city's iconic landmarks is the Paphos Archaeological Park, home to a remarkable collection of Greco-Roman ruins. Here, you can explore the ancient Odeon amphitheatre, the Tombs of the Kings, and the stunning mosaic floors of four Roman villas.

Included Excursion
Paphos Monuments Tour 
Discover the extraordinary history and archaeological treasures of Pafos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its ancient monuments, remarkable mosaics, and enduring legends. Travel to Pafos, once the ancient capital of Cyprus, where centuries of history have earned the city international recognition for its exceptional archaeological heritage. Begin with a visit to the impressive Tombs of the Kings, a vast necropolis of monumental rock-cut tombs dating from the Hellenistic period. Although no kings were buried here, the grandeur of these tombs gave the site its famous name. Continue to the Chrysopolitissa Archaeological Site, built over the remains of the island's largest Early Christian basilica. Here you will see St. Paul's Pillar, traditionally believed to be the place where the Apostle Paul was flogged before converting the Roman governor Sergius Paulus to Christianity. Complete your journey at the Pafos Archaeological Park, home to some of the finest Roman mosaics in the eastern Mediterranean. Explore the beautifully preserved Houses of Dionysos, Aion, and Theseus, where intricate mosaic floors vividly depict scenes from Greek mythology and everyday life.
Activity level: Moderate, Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes 

Anchored: 08:00 – 20:00

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11: Larnaca, Cyprus

After breakfast, head out to explore this coastal city in Cyprus, known for its beautiful beaches and ancient ruins. In the afternoon, we’ll welcome you back on board your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht for the second half of your journey.

Docked: 08:00 - 21:00

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12: Paphos, Cyprus

The ancient seaport of Paphos, mythically celebrated as the birthplace of Aphrodite, is home to one of the island’s most important archaeological areas. Much of the city’s heritage, including the renowned Paphos Archaeological Park and nearby Tombs of the Kings, is inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the well-preserved Greco-Roman ruins, from the ancient Odeon amphitheatre to the intricate mosaic floors of four Roman villas depicting scenes from Greek mythology.

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Paphos Monuments Tour (extra expense, must be pre-booked)
Discover the extraordinary history and archaeological treasures of Pafos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its ancient monuments, remarkable mosaics, and enduring legends. Travel to Pafos, once the ancient capital of Cyprus, where centuries of history have earned the city international recognition for its exceptional archaeological heritage. Begin with a visit to the impressive Tombs of the Kings, a vast necropolis of monumental rock-cut tombs dating from the Hellenistic period. Although no kings were buried here, the grandeur of these tombs gave the site its famous name. Continue to the Chrysopolitissa Archaeological Site, built over the remains of the island's largest Early Christian basilica. Here you will see St. Paul's Pillar, traditionally believed to be the place where the Apostle Paul was flogged before converting the Roman governor Sergius Paulus to Christianity. Complete your journey at the Pafos Archaeological Park, home to some of the finest Roman mosaics in the eastern Mediterranean. Explore the beautifully preserved Houses of Dionysos, Aion, and Theseus, where intricate mosaic floors vividly depict scenes from Greek mythology and everyday life.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes 

Anchored: 08:00–14:00

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13: Antalya, Turkey

Nestled between the Taurus Mountains and turquoise Mediterranean waters, Antalya captivates with its dramatic coastal setting and rich heritage. The UNESCO-listed Kaleiçi Old Town charms visitors with Ottoman-era mansions, Roman harbor gates, and winding cobblestone streets lined with artisanal shops and traditional teahouses. Beyond its historic core, Antalya reveals ancient Hadrian's Gate, Hellenistic towers, and vibrant bazaars that echo the city's layered past from Roman to Seljuk eras.

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Walking Tour of Antalya and Visit to the Mosque (extra expense)
Discover the rich history and Mediterranean charm of Antalya as you explore its atmospheric Old Town, historic landmarks, and picturesque coastline. Travel from the harbour to Kaleiçi, Antalya's beautifully preserved Old Town, where narrow cobblestone streets, ancient city walls, and elegant Ottoman houses create a timeless setting. Begin with a visit to the Inan Kiraç Kaleiçi Museum, housed in two restored historic buildings, where ethnographic displays and art exhibitions provide a fascinating introduction to the region's cultural heritage. Continue to the historic Sehzade Korkut Mosque, an outstanding example of Seljuk and Ottoman architecture, before relaxing at Mermerli Restaurant with a refreshing glass of freshly squeezed orange juice while enjoying magnificent views over the Mediterranean Sea, before drive back. 
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes 

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Perge & Aspendos (extra expense)
Journey through the heart of ancient Pamphylia as you discover two of Türkiye's most impressive archaeological treasures: Perge and Aspendos. Travel from the harbour to the remarkable ancient city of Perge, one of the best-preserved archaeological sites in the region. Explore its magnificent ruins, including the impressive Roman Theatre, the grand Hellenistic Gate, expansive colonnaded streets, and the remains of temples, baths, and public buildings while learning about the city's importance in the ancient world. Continue to Aspendos, home to one of the finest surviving Roman theatres anywhere in the world. Built during the 2nd century AD, its extraordinary acoustics and remarkably preserved structure remain a testament to Roman engineering. During your visit, also discover the surrounding archaeological remains, including the basilica, agora, and sections of the ancient aqueduct, offering further insight into life in this flourishing Roman city. 
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 5 hours

Docked: 08:00–14:00 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 14: Rhodes, Greece

On the lovely Greek island of Rhodes, the Medieval City, or Old Town, is a must-see attraction, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Encircled within four-kilometre length of walls, the city’s medieval buildings, the Street of the Knights, and the Palace of the Grand Master give you a sense that you’re back in the Middle Ages. Known as the ‘Island of Knights’, charming Rhodes is also famed for its delicious local dishes — be sure to try the melekouni (a traditional sweet) and pitaroudia (chickpea fritters). Today choose between our Included Excursion or EmeraldACTIVE option.

Included Excursion
Guided Tour of Lindos
Discover the timeless beauty of Lindos, where ancient history, breathtaking coastal scenery, and traditional island charm combine in one of Rhodes' most iconic destinations. Travel along the island's picturesque east coast, passing fragrant citrus groves, vineyards, and ancient olive trees before arriving at the beautiful village of Lindos. From here, make the ascent on foot to the magnificent Acropolis of Lindos, dramatically perched above the village and overlooking the sparkling Aegean Sea. Explore the impressive archaeological site, including the Doric Temple of Athena Lindia, the remains of a Byzantine church, and the fortifications built by the Knights of St. John, while enjoying spectacular panoramic views across the coastline. Afterwards, descend through the charming whitewashed village to the picturesque St. Paul's Bay, traditionally associated with the Apostle Paul's arrival in AD 51.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 4 hours 20 minutes 

EmeraldACTIVE
Walking Tour of Medieval Rhodes and Grand Master's Palace 
Step into the medieval heart of Rhodes, where imposing fortifications, grand palaces, and centuries of history await within one of Europe's best-preserved walled cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy a guided walk from the quayside into the historic Old Town, where narrow cobbled streets and medieval architecture reveal the legacy of the Knights of St. John. Visit the magnificent Palace of the Grand Master, originally built in the 14th century as the residence of the Knights before later serving as an Ottoman fortress and an Italian royal residence. Today, it stands as one of Rhodes' most important historical landmarks. Continue along the famous Street of the Knights, lined with beautifully preserved inns representing the different nationalities of the Order, before concluding your guided tour with free time to browse the lively Socrates Street bazaar, where local shops offer souvenirs, handicrafts, and traditional products. Following the guided tour, participants may either return to the ship with the group or remain in Rhodes Old Town to explore independently before making their own way back to the ship.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 3 hours

Docked: 08:00–18:00

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 15: Agios Nikolaos, Greece

This cosmopolitan coastal town on Crete’s scenic northern shore is famed for its relaxed charm and natural beauty. At its centre lies Lake Voulismeni, whose steep cliffs and mythic legends have long fascinated visitors. Spend the day exploring nearby archaeological treasures such as the ancient city of Lato (4th century BC), relaxing on golden-sand beaches, or browsing waterfront boutiques.  

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Mirabello Bay’s Kolokythia Hike (extra expense)
Experience the natural beauty of Crete on a scenic coastal hike from Elounda to the unspoilt shores opposite Kolokytha Island, where crystal-clear waters and spectacular views await. Set off on a guided walk along scenic coastal trails towards Kolokytha, a small island lying just off the Spinalonga Peninsula. The route passes rugged landscapes, ancient olive groves, and beautiful Mediterranean vegetation before reaching the idyllic Saint Luke Beach, renowned for its white sand and turquoise waters. Pause to relax, admire panoramic views towards the historic island of Spinalonga—once Europe's last leper colony, which closed in 1957—and, weather permitting, enjoy time for a refreshing swim in the clear waters before retracing your steps to Elounda.
Activity Level: Active, Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes 

EmeraldPLUS
An Evening of Greek Tradition
Celebrate the vibrant spirit of Greece with an exclusive EmeraldPLUS cultural performance presented on board before dinner. Enjoy an authentic one-hour performance featuring two talented musicians and four professional dancers dressed in traditional Greek costumes. Through lively music, energetic dances, and colourful costumes, this captivating show showcases the rich cultural heritage and enduring traditions of Greece in a warm and entertaining atmosphere.
Event duration: 1 hour 

Anchored: 13:00–21:00 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 16: Santorini, Greece

Known for its spectacular views, whitewashed hillside architecture and legendary sunsets, Santorini is a hugely popular destination. This gorgeous Greek Island is also famous for its iconic, blue-domed churches, transparent azure waters, and charming villages dramatically perched on cliffs overlooking the sea. Santorini’s picturesque main town, Fira, precariously rests on the edge of a caldera cliff, presenting jaw-dropping vistas of the Aegean Sea. Oia, another of Santorini’s traditional villages, is particularly renowned for its quaint narrow streets and panoramic caldera views.     

Included Excursion
Round Trip Cable Car Ticket to Thira
Experience one of Santorini’s most iconic journeys with a roundtrip cable car ride between the Old Port of Gialos and Fira, offering spectacular views over the island’s dramatic caldera. After tendering from the ship, proceed to the Old Port of Gialos, where the Santorini Cable Car (Teleferico) provides a quick and scenic ascent up the steep caldera cliffs, connecting the port with Fira, the island’s lively capital. As the gondola rises, enjoy sweeping views of volcanic rock faces, whitewashed villages perched high above the cliffs, and the deep blue Aegean Sea below. Upon arrival in Fira, time is available to explore independently—stroll along the caldera rim, browse local shops, enjoy panoramic viewpoints, or relax at a café overlooking the breathtaking scenery. When ready, use the return cable car ticket to descend comfortably back to the Old Port and tender back to the ship.
Activity Level: Easy, Duration: At your leisure 

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Akrotiri, Winery & Oia (extra expense)
Journey through the history, flavours, and iconic landscapes of Santorini as you discover one of the Aegean's most captivating islands. Begin with a visit to the remarkable archaeological site of Akrotiri, often referred to as the “Greek Pompeii.” Buried beneath volcanic ash following the island's great eruption, this exceptionally preserved Bronze Age settlement reveals sophisticated multi-storey buildings, advanced drainage systems, and fascinating insights into one of the ancient Mediterranean's most advanced civilisations. Continue to a traditional Santorini winery, where you will learn about the island's unique volcanic viticulture and enjoy a tasting of locally produced wines while overlooking the spectacular caldera. Complete your excursion in the picturesque village of Oia, famous for its whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches, and breathtaking views across the volcanic caldera and Thirassia Island. Afterwards, continue to Fira, where you may either return with the group or remain to explore the island's capital independently before taking the cable car back to the Old Port at your convenience.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 5 hours 30 minutes 

Anchored: 08:00 – 21:00 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 17: Mykonos, Greece

This world-famous Greek island is popular for its lively party lifestyle, gleaming whitewashed buildings with blue-domed roofs and bustling waterfront area brimming with restaurants, cafés, and fashionable boutiques. You can also explore the historic Windmills of Mykonos and Little Venice with its stunning seafront homes and from Mykonos itself, visit the sacred island of Delos, a small uninhabited island and UNESCO World Heritage Site, revered as the birthplace of Apollo. 

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Explore Mykonos Town Highlights on Foot (extra expense)
Discover the timeless charm of Mykonos on a leisurely walking tour through the island’s enchanting capital, where traditional Cycladic architecture, rich history, and stunning coastal scenery come together. Explore the maze of whitewashed streets in Mykonos Town (Chora) as your guide shares fascinating insights into the island’s culture and history. Along the way, admire the iconic Panagia Paraportiani, one of Greece’s most photographed churches, and the charming Church of St. Nicholas, overlooking the old harbour. Continue through the picturesque waterfront district of Little Venice, where elegant historic houses line the sea, before reaching the famous Mykonos Windmills, offering panoramic views across the town and the sparkling Aegean. Pause to enjoy a traditional Greek cheese pie at a local bakery and a refreshing drink before free time to browse the boutiques, relax at a café, or continue exploring Mykonos Town at your own pace. 
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes

Anchored: 08:00–18:00 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 18: Athens (Piraeus), Greece

Your luxurious yacht cruise concludes in Athens, the dynamic capital of Greece, where you’ll be transferred to the airport for your return flight home or to continue your holiday. 

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Athens City Tour with Acropolis (extra expense, must be booked on board)
Experience the timeless wonders of Athens, where ancient history and authentic Greek flavours come together in an unforgettable journey through the city's most iconic landmarks. Begin with a guided visit to the magnificent Acropolis, ascending the sacred hill to admire the Parthenon, Erechtheion, Temple of Athena Nike, and Propylaea, while enjoying panoramic views over Athens and nearby landmarks including the Odeon of Herodes Atticus. Continue into the charming neighbourhood of Plaka, where narrow streets, neoclassical houses, and family-run shops create the perfect setting to experience traditional Athenian life. Stroll through the lively market streets while sampling a variety of authentic Greek specialities, including local cheeses, olives, savoury pies, pastries, olive oil, wine, and regional spirits, as your guide shares the story behind Greece's celebrated culinary traditions.
Activity Level: Active, Duration: 5 hours

Notes: This excursion is available for guests continuing on the next cruise and for disembarking guests with flights departing after 5:00 pm. After the visit to Plaka, disembarking guests will transfer directly to the airport, while in-transit guests will return to the ship by separate vehicle. 

Please book your flight to depart out of Athens after 11:00 AM.

Docked: 06:00 

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Emerald Cruises cannot guarantee the cruise will operated unaltered from the itinerary states above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.

Meals: Breakfast