Greek Islands: Cruising with Celestyal Cruises
Have you dreamed of cruising the Aegean Sea to the stunning Greek Islands? Are you curious to see some of the most interesting ancient architecture and explore the incredibly well-preserved ruins of Ephesus from the port of Kusadasi, Turkey? Then you will want to read on!
American travelers are just beginning to learn about the cruise company Celestyal Cruises. This relative Greece-based newcomer currently offers two mid-size ships, and is quite inclusive in its offerings, with gratuities, shore excursions, meals and beverages (alcoholic, too!). Who else does that at a moderate price? Here is s sneak peek at our cruise ship (above), The Experience!
From the website: “Celestyal Cruises is the main home-porting cruise operator in Greece and the preeminent cruise line serving the Greek Islands and East Mediterranean. The company operates two mid-sized vessels, each one cozy enough to provide genuine and highly-personalized services. The foundation of the company’s philosophy is the ‘destination.’ Every cruise focuses on true cultural immersion, offering authentic, lifetime experiences both on board and on shore wherever its vessels sail.”
Greece has been on my must-experience travel list for quite some time, and being able to see and play in this amazing destination while unpacking once will be special! Well, frankly, with a one or two night pre-trip to explore Athens, I might have to take a few items outta my bag! Grinning.
So here’s the deal, folks: My favorite travel companion, Dan, and I are going to escort you! That makes it lots easier for you to be sure, because we will take care of every detail, from beginning to end. Reach out soon to take advantage of an extra 100 Euros per cabin…book by 9/30/20! bobbie@activetravelpro.com. It will be an honor to teach you more about this amazing opportunity to explore Greece in style!
Below is the full 7 night Greek Island Idyllic itinerary for our ship, the new acquire Celestyal Experience, along with a few details about what you can see or do in each port of call.
ATHENS
Can you imagine yourself in a city that has over 6,000 years of history? As the womb of western civilization, it has inspired a host of Greek words and ideas…gastronomy, democracy, mathematics, architecture, art, logic, and euphoria, among others. One of the most attractive and charming capitals of Europe, we will certainly be enthralled as we explore.
KUSADASI (Turkey)
Ephesus (An included excursion!) is the destination from this port of call, and having visited in recent years, it will certainly be one of your most memorable stops of the journey. This ancient city has some of the most well-preserved buildings I have ever seen! The stories of life during its heyday are fascinating, and it is said that Mary, mother of Jesus, is buried under a church site here. Imagine…10th Century BC!
RHODES
Beaches, castles and butterflies. I love the description on the Celestyal website of this beautiful island. Ready to go?
“Stepping off the cruise ship, an island of contrasts awaits; a tranquil paradise, rich with nature and layered with history. Wandering the Old Town, you’ll feel the presence of the Crusaders who once walked the same cobbled streets. The ruins left behind by Byzantines, Romans and ancient Greeks will whisk you even further back in time.
Alternatively, find peace and seclusion on the miles and miles of sandy beaches, or feel your cares drift away in the mineral-rich waters at one of the island’s many natural spas. Then head into the forested inland, where rivers and waterfalls flow, butterflies surround you in the Valley of the Butterflies, and native deer still roam free on the wild hills and mountains.”
AGIOS NIKOLAOS (CRETE, Greece)
Crete is a gorgeous island, and this charming, sleepy port is a perfect stop to allow you to explore. Check out this link for ideas on how you’d like to spend your day here! I may decide to do the A Delectable Day in Crete tour from our ship. It sounds amazing, with a combination of food, olive oil, wine, culture, dance and even a glimpse of the lake where the Goddess Athena is reputed to have bathed. An added bonus: We remain in port until midnight!
SANTORINI
The “power to captivate”…the brochure claims. And you will LOVE this. We will remain in this beautiful port until 2:30 am, allowing us enough time to fall in love with the island, explore the beaches, and experience culinary delights as well as some nightlife! Here’s the link to learn more about this fascinating volcanic island. We will likely arrange a fun evening together with our group here as well. I can’t wait!
MILOS
Rock formations, crystal clear blue water, and charming villages await us on this incredibly beautiful island. How will you spend your day? Check out this CNN travel video and article about the lovely beaches on Milos. I cannot wait to swim in the water here!
MYKONOS
Just 85 square kilometers, this small island has a reputation for attracting bohemians and celebrities alike. The Celestyal description boasts “There is no Greek island more synonymous with carefree times, glitz and glamour than Mykonos.” You’ll be thrilled to know we will enjoy this stunning island until 11pm, “famous for its winding lanes lined with gleaming white cubiform houses with painted blue doors and sophisticated shops and restaurants.” What an exciting last port of call it will be.
Have I convinced you to join us yet?
On September 17, 2022, our special group will embark the ship Celestyal Experience together. As always, I will handle every detail for you, complete with pre and post cruise options, as well as assistance with air, transfers, insurance, optional excursions and any other trip planning you desire.
The following are INCLUDED in your Cruise fare below, shown as per person double occupancy. Pricing is valid at least until November 30, when the cruise line may pull our inventory back. NOTE: Just $150 per stateroom (fully refundable until 120 days prior!) will hold your cruise space and choose cabin location.
INCLUDED in your cruise fare:
Complimentary Dining
Unlimited Classic Drinks
Select Shore Excursions (2)
On Board Entertainment
Port Charges and Gratuities
PRICING
INSIDE stateroom IB: $1439 per person double
Ocean View stateroom XD: $1729 per person double
SJA Balcony Suite: $1889 per person double
3rd or 4th in stateroom: $749 per person
Single supplements: Inside and OV +15% cruise fare, Balcony +20%
Questions? Ready to hold your voyage space? Contact me ASAP for best ship stateroom location and before pricing rises. bobbie@activetravelpro.com
