A Cultural Odyssey - Athens (Piraeus) to Montreal Cruise

Day 1 - Athens

Arrive: Mon 11 August 2025 / Depart: Mon 11 August 2025 at 19:00

Piraeus is the gateway to the ancient city of Athens, known as the “Cradle of Western Civilization” because of its immense impact on cultural and political achievements throughout the world. Due mainly to tourism and the 2004 Olympics, Greece has redeveloped many sites in Athens. A historian’s delight, Athens is home to such magnificent wonders as: the Acropolis, the Parthenon, the atmospheric winding streets of the Plaka, Temple of Olympian Zeus and Temple of Athena Nike, and the Archaeological Museum with the world’s finest collection of ancient artifacts.

Day 2 - Skiathos, Greece

Arrive: Tue 12 August 2025 at 07:00 / Depart: Tue 12 August 2025 at 16:00

Day 3 - Istanbul

Arrive: Wed 13 August 2025 at 11:00

Bridging both Europe and Asia Minor, Istanbul is literally where “East meets West.” The city was founded by Constantine the Great and the history of this capital dates back sixteen centuries to the powerful Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. Many of our voyages include overnight stays in this legendary city, allowing more time to explore Istanbul’s highlights. Shop among the winding byways of the Grand Bazaar and the exotic stalls of the Spice Bazaar. Tour the magnificent courtyards of Topkapi Palace, stroll among the treasures of the Blue Mosque with its unique six minarets, then view Dolmabahce Palace, the one-time residence of the sultans. Or you may cruise along the Bosphorus for a unique perspective of the city’s numerous seaside mansions, mosques and palaces.

Day 4 - Istanbul

Depart: Thu 14 August 2025 at 16:00

Bridging both Europe and Asia Minor, Istanbul is literally where “East meets West.” The city was founded by Constantine the Great and the history of this capital dates back sixteen centuries to the powerful Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. Many of our voyages include overnight stays in this legendary city, allowing more time to explore Istanbul’s highlights. Shop among the winding byways of the Grand Bazaar and the exotic stalls of the Spice Bazaar. Tour the magnificent courtyards of Topkapi Palace, stroll among the treasures of the Blue Mosque with its unique six minarets, then view Dolmabahce Palace, the one-time residence of the sultans. Or you may cruise along the Bosphorus for a unique perspective of the city’s numerous seaside mansions, mosques and palaces.

Day 5 - Cesme

Arrive: Fri 15 August 2025 at 09:00 / Depart: Fri 15 August 2025 at 19:00

Day 6 - Cruising the Aegean Sea

Day 7 - Santorini

Arrive: Sun 17 August 2025 at 07:00 / Depart: Sun 17 August 2025 at 17:00

With dramatic views of classic whitewashed houses clinging perilously to the side of the caldera and stunning beaches of white and red sand or black pebbles, it’s no wonder this may be the most photographed scenery in the world. Visit Ancient Akrotiri, the archeological site of a town frozen in time by ash from an eruption 3,600 years ago. Also worth a day trip is the Volcano of Santorini Palea (old) Kameni and Nea (new) Kameni , two small islands of black lava positioned in the centre of the basin of Santorini.

Day 8 - Cruising the Mediterranean Sea

Day 9 - Amalfi, Italy

Arrive: Tue 19 August 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Tue 19 August 2025 at 18:00

Discover chic Positano with its relaxed, sophisticated air and white Moorish-style houses clinging to steep slopes around a sparkling bay filled with colorful fishing boats. Then visit enchanting Amalfi and admire the 12th-century Capuchin monastery and see the beautiful 11th-century Cathedral and cloister before exploring on your own. Browse Positano’s boutiques for the town’s locally made casual cotton clothes or search for unique souvenirs in Amalfi. Enjoy delicious fresh seafood and pasta or tempting pastries and espresso in a spectacular seaside, mountainous setting.

Day 10 - Rome

Arrive: Wed 20 August 2025 at 07:00 / Depart: Wed 20 August 2025 at 19:00

Your gateway to the Eternal City, Civitavecchia has served as Rome's seaport since the 13th century. The port has a long and venerable history. The emperor Trajan built a pleasure villa near the modern city, while Bernini and Michelangelo designed the harbor fortifications. Yet the Eternal City eternally beckons. The ancient capital of the Western World and the center of Christianity for nearly 2,000 years, Rome provides an inexhaustible feast. Visit the ruins of the Forum, view the splendors of the Sistine Chapel, or climb the Spanish Steps, once the heart of Rome's Bohemian Quarter. Rome has been a magnet luring the world's greatest artists, architects, and philosophers since the days of the Caesars.

Day 11 - Monaco

Arrive: Thu 21 August 2025 at 10:00 / Depart: Thu 21 August 2025 at 19:00

Tiny, but packed with fun, Monte Carlo offers a wonderful combination of history, beauty, entertainment and leisure. The wealthiest spot in Monaco, Monte Carlo is an enchanting place, known as the international capital of luxury and for its celebrity-sightings, casinos and nightlife. Yet the old world shines through in its art and architecture. Palaces, cathedrals and museums dot this small municipality in an old town full of rich history. Be sure to catch the once-daily changing of the guard, then tour the public areas at the Palais du Prince, home to the royal family, whose most famous resident was famous actress Grace Kelly.

Day 12 - Barcelona

Arrive: Fri 22 August 2025 at 13:00

One of Europe’s most visually stunning cities, Barcelona balances the medieval intimacy of its Gothic Quarter with the grace and distinction of the wide boulevards in the Moderniste Eixample. It was the home of architect Antoni Gaudí, whose Sagrada Familia Cathedral, Park Güell and Casa Milà are the most profound statements of Modernisme. View the splendid works at the Picasso Museum and the Miro Foundation, or discover Barcelona’s passionate ambiance at a flamenco show.

Day 13 - Barcelona

Depart: Sat 23 August 2025 at 19:00

One of Europe’s most visually stunning cities, Barcelona balances the medieval intimacy of its Gothic Quarter with the grace and distinction of the wide boulevards in the Moderniste Eixample. It was the home of architect Antoni Gaudí, whose Sagrada Familia Cathedral, Park Güell and Casa Milà are the most profound statements of Modernisme. View the splendid works at the Picasso Museum and the Miro Foundation, or discover Barcelona’s passionate ambiance at a flamenco show.

Day 14 - Alicante

Arrive: Sun 24 August 2025 at 10:00 / Depart: Sun 24 August 2025 at 18:00

There is something for everyone in Alicante. The historic Mediterranean port city is located in renowned Costa Blanca, within the region of Valencia. From outdoor cafés to white-sand beaches to museums that house rare masterpieces, this town has everything one would expect of a Mediterranean escape. Be sure to visit the picturesque town of Guadalest, one of the most unique destinations in all of Spain.

Day 15 - Motril, Granada

Arrive: Mon 25 August 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Mon 25 August 2025 at 19:00

Day 16 - Cadiz

Arrive: Tue 26 August 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Tue 26 August 2025 at 19:00

Cádiz, Andalusia's world-renowned capital, has undergone major restoration in recent years. Palm trees, gracious squares, flower-filled parks, ubiquitous red-tile roofed buildings, and bustling street markets make this a most delightful port. The old town, on the tip of the peninsula, is buzzing with beautiful, lively plazas. To get there, you pass through the new town, an elegant metropolis with excellent beaches. Cádiz is also a good starting point for a day trip to nearby Seville, where you can visit the Alcazar, a beautiful medieval Islamic palace showcasing a unique fusion of Christian and Moorish architecture surrounded by lovely gardens; majestic Seville Cathedral (Catedral de Sevilla); and Giralda Tower, offering excellent photo opportunities.

Day 17 - Cruising the Atlantic Ocean

Day 18 - Funchal

Arrive: Thu 28 August 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Thu 28 August 2025 at 18:00

Madeira is described as the “Island of Eternal Spring.” Entirely volcanic in origin, the soil combines with the mild climate to produce an abundance of green as well as multicolored vegetation. The rugged landscape, scenic fishing villages, magnificent vistas and ideal climate bring the island fame as a year-round resort. Before leaving this panoramic Atlantic isle, be sure to sample a glass of the famous Madeira wine.

Day 19 - Cruising the Atlantic Ocean

Day 20 - Ponta Delgada, Azores

Arrive: Sat 30 August 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Sat 30 August 2025 at 18:00

Savor the unparalleled natural wonders of this splendid volcanic island located at a crossroads in the Atlantic. See its stunning landscape, thermal pools, natural steam vents, volcanic lakes, subtropical flora, plantations and picturesque towns filled with perfectly preserved 17th and 18th century buildings.

Day 21 - Horta

Arrive: Sun 31 August 2025 at 07:00 / Depart: Sun 31 August 2025 at 14:00

The volcanic islands of the Azores create a natural aquarium in the middle of the Atlantic between Europe and North America. Whale watching, sport fishing, paragliding, and yachting are popular pastimes. Stroll by the beautiful marina and stop in to legendary Peter Café Sport - a restaurant, scrimshaw museum, post office and necessary stop for all sailors.

Day 22 - Cruising the Atlantic Ocean

Day 23 - Cruising the Atlantic Ocean

Day 24 - St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada

Arrive: Wed 03 September 2025 at 11:00 / Depart: Wed 03 September 2025 at 20:00

St. John's, a city on Newfoundland island off Canada's Atlantic coast, is the capital of Newfoundland and Labrador province. Its harbour was settled by the British in the 1600s. Downtown is known for its colourful row houses. Above the city is Signal Hill with walking trails and the site of the first transatlantic wireless communication, Cabot Tower, which commemorates John Cabot's discovery of Newfoundland.

Day 25 - Cruising the Atlantic Ocean

Day 26 - Corner Brook, Newfoundland

Arrive: Fri 05 September 2025 at 07:00 / Depart: Fri 05 September 2025 at 16:00

Start by taking in the breathtaking view from the monument honoring Captain James Cook, the first to map the area in 1767. More history awaits you in the Corner Brook Museum and its marine artifacts, forestry exhibits and collections from aboriginal people. The breathtaking Humber Valley is just outside the city, an ideal location for skiers, hikers and anglers.

Day 27 - Gulf of Saint Lawrence Cruising

Day 28 - Quebec City, Canada

Arrive: Sun 07 September 2025 at 10:00 / Depart: Sun 07 September 2025 at 20:00

Prepare to be thoroughly charmed by this great historic city. The only walled metropolis in North America provides a taste of authentic, profoundly French culture. Stroll the cool cobbled streets of Basse-Ville with its outstanding 17th- and 18th-century architecture, graceful parks and delightful sidewalk cafés. Head over to the Rue du Trésor where many local artists display and sell their artwork. Discover Place Royale, a beautifully restored market square and the green-turreted castle of Château Frontenac, Québec’s most celebrated landmark. Stop for spectacular views of the St. Lawrence River, Île d’Orléans and the Laurentian Mountains at Dufferin Terrace.

Day 29 - Montreal

Arrive: Mon 08 September 2025 at 06:00 / Depart: Mon 08 September 2025

The diversity and rich cultural heritage of Montréal never ceases to captivate the traveler. Take a horse-drawn carriage through the Vieux-Montréal, the largest collection of historic buildings in North America. Browse the shops and boutiques along the 19-miles of neon-lit corridors of the Underground City. Explore the exquisite works on display at the Musée des Beaux Artes or walk part of the Jardin Botanique, the largest Chinese garden in North America.