Classical Greece

Your cruise begins in Greece and Athens, the ancient Greek capital that presents a remarkable blend of rich tradition and modern dynamism.  Here, you’ll be transferred to your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht to start your memorable voyage.

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

A small rocky island at the heart of the Cyclades archipelago, Delos is one of the most important mythological and archaeological sites in Greece and a UNESCO World Heritage-listed Site. In the afternoon, you’ll sail on to Mykonos, a world-famous island whose allure lies in its blend of traditional Greek culture and cosmopolitan flair. Whitewashed houses with vibrant blue doors that line the atmospheric streets of Mykonos Town add to the charm, so too, the island’s historic windmills.  

Although the fishing boats still go out in good weather, Mykonos largely makes its living from tourism these days. The summer crowds have turned one of the poorest islands in Greece into one of the richest. Old Mykonians complain that their young, who have inherited stores where their grandfathers once sold eggs or wine, get so much rent that they have lost ambition, and in summer sit around pool bars at night with their friends, and hang out in Athens in winter when island life is less scintillating. Put firmly on the map by Jackie O in the 1960s, Mykonos town—called Hora by the locals—remains the Saint-Tropez of the Greek islands. The scenery is memorable, with its whitewashed streets, Little Venice, the Kato Myli ridge of windmills, and Kastro, the town's medieval quarter. Its cubical two- or three-story houses and churches, with their red or blue doors and domes and wooden balconies, have been long celebrated as some of the best examples of classic Cycladic architecture. Luckily, the Greek Archaeological Service decided to preserve the town, even when the Mykonians would have preferred to rebuild, and so the Old Town has been impressively preserved. Pink oleander, scarlet hibiscus, and trailing green pepper trees form a contrast amid the dazzling whiteness, whose frequent renewal with whitewash is required by law. Any visitor who has the pleasure of getting lost in its narrow streets (made all the narrower by the many outdoor stone staircases, which maximize housing space in the crowded village) will appreciate how its confusing layout was designed to foil pirates—if it was designed at all. After Mykonos fell under Turkish rule in 1537, the Ottomans allowed the islanders to arm their vessels against pirates, which had a contradictory effect: many of them found that raiding other islands was more profitable than tilling arid land. At the height of Aegean piracy, Mykonos was the principal headquarters of the corsair fleets—the place where pirates met their fellows, found willing women, and filled out their crews. Eventually the illicit activity evolved into a legitimate and thriving trade network. Morning on Mykonos town's main quay is busy with deliveries, visitors for the Delos boats, lazy breakfasters, and street cleaners dealing with the previous night's mess. In late morning the cruise-boat people arrive, and the shops are all open. In early afternoon, shaded outdoor tavernas are full of diners eating salads (Mykonos's produce is mostly imported); music is absent or kept low. In mid- and late afternoon, the town feels sleepy, since so many people are at the beach, on excursions, or sleeping in their air-conditioned rooms; even some tourist shops close for siesta. By sunset, people have come back from the beach, having taken their showers and rested. At night, the atmosphere in Mykonos ramps up. The cruise-boat people are mostly gone, coughing three-wheelers make no deliveries in the narrow streets, and everyone is dressed sexy for summer and starting to shimmy with the scene. Many shops stay open past midnight, the restaurants fill up, and the bars and discos make ice cubes as fast as they can. Ready to dive in? Begin your tour of Mykonos town (Hora) by starting out at its heart: Mando Mavrogenous Square.

Known for its stunning turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and vibrant nightlife, Bodrum, along Turkey’s southwest shores, attracts both local and international visitors year-round. 

The town is steeped in history and home to several historical sites, including the impressive Bodrum Castle, built by the Knights of St. John in the 15th century. The castle now houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, highlighting artifacts from shipwrecks discovered in the Aegean Sea. 

The lovely Greek island of Rhodes harbors a rich history, boasting fascinating landmarks such as the ancient Acropolis of Lindos, the Palace of the Grand Master in Rhodes Town, and the medieval Old Town, which is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Rhodes also entices visitors with its stunning natural scenery, boasting sandy beaches lapped by crystal-clear waters, and lush green hillsides.

Popular for its spectacular views, whitewashed buildings, and legendary sunsets, Santorini is a world-famous destination. This gorgeous Greek island is also famed for its iconic, blue-domed churches, transparent azure waters, and charming villages perched atop cliffs overlooking the sea. Santorini’s picturesque main town, Fira, dramatically rests on the edge of a caldera cliff, offering jaw-dropping vistas of the Aegean Sea. Oia, another of Santorini’s iconic villages, is particularly renowned for its quaint narrow streets, stunning sunsets, and panoramic caldera views.

Welcome to Chania, a charming coastal town located on the northwest coast of the Greek island of Crete. Chania is known for its picturesque Venetian harbor, narrow winding streets, and vibrant atmosphere. The town has a rich history that is evident in its blend of architectural styles, including Venetian, Ottoman, and Greek influences. Here, you can enjoy a range of activities, including relaxing on one of the beautiful beaches and exploring historical sites, such as ancient ruins and museums. 

Renowned for its stunning natural beauty and historic charm, this picturesque island is distinctive for its rugged terrain, clear turquoise waters, and lush greenery. The main centre, also named Hydra, is a charming and bustling port town brimming with narrow cobblestone streets and traditional, whitewashed buildings adorned with bougainvillea-covered balconies. There are no cars or motor vehicles allowed on the island, making it a peaceful and low-key getaway from the usual hustle and bustle of city life. 

Your luxurious yacht cruise concludes in the ancient city of Athens, where you will be transferred to the airport for your return flight home or to continue your holiday.

Please book your flight to depart out of Athens after 01:00 PM.

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.