Day 3
Kusadasi & Ephesus - Walking through Ephesus this morning on a guided tour, you get a sense of what life was like in the second century.
If you did nothing else here but gaze up in wonder, it would still be time well spent. Luckily, you have a guide to point out the finer points of this incredible feat of construction - in this open-air museum, history comes to life at every turn.
The crumbling façade of the two-story library glows with a golden hue in the sun. While only parts of the structure remain, it was once thought to hold around 12,000 precious scrolls - which makes it the third-largest library in the Greco-Roman world, behind Alexandria and Pergamum. The ruins stand as a testament to the architectural brilliance of the Roman era.
We'll wander through the streets of Ephesus to see the enormous amphitheatre that once echoed with the cheers of thousands of spectators. You can also witness this once highly sophisticated society where opulent houses boast marble-lined halls, exquisite mosaics, and stunning frescoes.
The ruins are still being excavated and you're left with the sense that there's so much more to be discovered.
Before we depart Kusadasi in the early evening, don't miss a chance to stroll through the picturesque Turkish seaside town and along the promenade or feel the thrill of haggling at local shops.
Day 4
Rhodes & Lindos - With an expansive area of 541 square miles, Rhodes stands as the largest of the Dodecanese Islands. The city of Rhodes places its main historical treasures within easy reach of the port, inviting exploration.
We'll begin with a drive south to the enchanting village of Lindos. Rising above the whitewashed rooftops of the village are the centuries old fortifications and sacred ruins of the Acropolis of Lindos which we'll explore on a guided tour this morning. Part of its collection of historically significant monuments is a Doric 4th-century temple devoted to Athena Lindia, where people used to worship their patron goddess with offerings and sacrifices.
Back in Rhodes, we'll join a local guide for a walking tour of its UNESCO-listed old town. The maze-like town itself comprises a tapestry of some 200 winding lanes, narrow cobblestone streets with no names lined with medieval architecture - it's easy to get lost here!
This afternoon, take in the island at your leisure and enjoy a wander at your own pace to absorb the history of this incredible place. You could see the Grand Master's Palace, an intricate blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, which houses archaeological finds from ancient and medieval Rhodes, including Statues from the Hellenistic and Roman periods which decorate the courtyard. Or perhaps, step back in time with a wander down the Street of The Knights - or Odos Ippoton in Greek - one of the most intact medieval streets in the world.
Day 5
Knossos & Agios Nikolaos - Join our guide this morning for a tour of the ancient city of Knossos, said to be the birthplace of the very first civilisation in Europe - the Minoans, with a human presence since 7000 BC.
In Greek myth, the legendary Minotaur - with the head of a bull and the body of a man - was believed to be confined in a labyrinth that was built underneath the Palace of Knossos. While no minotaur roam the complex these days (or so we're told), it is still quite the maze with five acres of multi-story ruins to explore. As you stand among the marble and crumbling limestone masonry of the Central Court, grand staircase, and throne room, with timeworn murals and paintings still hanging on the walls, you can't help but be in awe of its construction.
After your visit, enjoy some free time in bustling Heraklion, Crete’s capital city, to browse the unique shops and lively cafes within its Venetian walls.
This afternoon, you’ll have time to wander the cosy village atmosphere of Agios Nikolaos itself, a popular resort with a cosmopolitan vibe. Perhaps take a stroll through the delightful village streets, trying local specialities such as raki, olive oil and honey or seek out hidden gems such as the Minotaur mural by the waterfront and the intricate Choumeriakos fountain. For a touch of nature, don’t miss Lake Voulismeni, known simply as ‘the lake’, it is located in the heart of the town, and it is believed that the goddess Athena once bathed here.
Day 6
Santorini - If you’re up on deck early enough this morning, you will be able to watch the ship glide into Santorini's vast caldera - the crescent bay formed by a volcanic eruption that took place over 3,500 years ago.
When you imagine the Greek Islands, Santorini immediately springs to mind, and for good reason. The multi-hued, sheer cliffs rise above the sea, crowned by the blindingly white cubist architecture that is so typical of the Greek Islands. Enjoy a leisurely visit of the island with a full day in port.
Day 7
Mykonos - Spend the morning on a guided tour of Mykonos and its capital, Hora, where cobbled lanes and whitewashed houses provide idyllic photo opportunities. We'll stop in Alfekandra (lovingly known as Little Venice), with 18th-century homes featuring wooden balconies that hang above the sea, overlooking the island’s famous windmills. These magnificent houses originally belonged to rich merchants or captains - with little basement doors that provided direct access to the sea - and have now been transformed into unique restaurants, bars, shops, and nightclubs.
Enjoy a free afternoon exploring Mykonos as you please. The maze of lanes and blue-domed churches beg to be explored and, as you wander, you'll happen upon a few sea views to stop you in your tracks.
If you're looking for a more leisurely afternoon, you could relax with a drink or bite to eat in one of its numerous tavernas, bars, and cafes. Or spend the afternoon basking in the Greek sunshine on one of the island's beautiful sandy beaches.
*The ship is expected to anchor at this port and guests will be tendered ashore.
Day 8
Milos - Today, you can put your own plans into action to get the most out of Milos with a full day at leisure on this stunning Greek island.
As the southwesternmost of the Cyclades islands, Milos offers a range of beautiful landscapes. You could visit the white volcanic rock formations and turquoise waters of Sarakiniko beach - a lunar landscape that's straight out of sci-fi – or stop at a quaint fishing village with amazing views. Soak up the island’s laid-back charm or Maybe venture to the amphitheatre and catacombs as well as the Plaka area, renowned for its local pastry shops and homemade sweets.
Not sure what to do today? No problem, your Tour Manager is on hand to recommend popular sights and some top-secret local spots.
*Ship is expected to anchor at this port and guests will be tendered ashore.
Day 9
Athens - After seven nights at sea, we'll put our feet firmly back on dry land today as we disembark Celestyal Journey and head to Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon.
According to myth, this is the spot where Aegeus, King of Athens, fell into the sea - giving the Aegean Sea its name.
Built on the highest point of the hill - with 15 marble columns still standing - there are spectacular vistas out to the Aegean and Saronic Gulf. You can imagine ancient seafarers and warriors turning back for their last look at home before heading out on an adventure, and so it was on Cape Sounion that the Athenians built a temple to appease Poseidon, God of the sea, to ensure their safe return. Although the Persians destroyed the original temple in 480 BC, it was reconstructed 40 years later, and remnants of the temple can still be seen today.
Top tip: Look out for a famous name graffitied on the columns here - the infamous Lord Byron, a serial offender, has etched his name onto historical structures throughout Europe.
We'll continue to our hotel located on the Athens Riviera and spend the rest of the day at leisure to settle in and explore the local area.
Day 10
Free Day - After nine days of non-stop adventuring across the Aegean Sea, you deserve a chance to put your feet up and bask in the sunshine - and that’s exactly what’s in store for you today.
Our hotel is located in the Vouliagmeni area close to Lake Vouliagmeni and fashionable Glyfada. It’s graced with idyllic Grecian character and unforgettable views of the beachfront – we'll have private access so you can stroll right from breakfast to the beach. You could lay claim to one of the sun loungers on the terrace and crack open that book you’ve been meaning to read. Unwind in the spa or, for those who refuse to sit still, you could take advantage of the hotel's fitness centre.
Today will be completely up to you, so throw away the itinerary and go with the flow.