Aegean Islands Cruise

Guests arriving at the airport today will be met by one of your tour leaders who will help arrange your transfers down to the ship. Boarding and check-in are from 6:00 p.m. We’ll introduce the crew at a welcome cocktail before dinner on board. After dinner, we will gather in our private salon for our first evening of entertainment. Overnight, our ship the MS La Belle De L’Adriatique will begin cruising towards the Cyclades.

We spend the morning cruising through the Aegean Sea, a region steeped in history and mythology. From the tales of The Odyssey to the legend of Atlantis, these waters have inspired stories for millennia. This afternoon, we set out on a panoramic tour of Milos, an island renowned for its distinctive landscapes and rich history. Among the highlights is Sarakiniko Beach, famous for its striking white rock formations, sculpted by wind and sea into an almost lunar landscape. We also visit the ancient Roman Theatre, set on a hillside with fine views across the bay. Our tour concludes in Plaka, the island’s charming capital, where you will have time to explore its narrow streets and traditional architecture at your own pace.

We will arrive at the legendary island of Santorini this morning. Shaped by volcanic forces, the island’s dramatic caldera, its vast crater partially submerged in the sea, creates one of the most spectacular landscapes in the Mediterranean. Our panoramic tour reveals the island’s varied terrain, including a visit to Profitis Ilias Mountain for sweeping views across the archipelago. We continue to the village of Oia, where whitewashed houses and narrow cobbled streets cascade down the cliffs, before visiting Fira, perched high above the caldera and overlooking the Aegean Sea. Here, we pause to watch the sunset, as the sky transforms into hues of orange, purple, and pink. Later, we return to the ship and cruise through the Dodecanese towards Rhodes. This evening, we enjoy a Greek dinner on the Sun Deck, accompanied by the natural spectacle of the setting sun.

This morning, we travel across the island to the enchanting village of Lindos, one of the most picturesque settings in the Greek islands. Surrounded by dramatic natural scenery, Lindos is renowned for its striking whitewashed houses and remarkable archaeological heritage. As we make our way through its narrow streets towards the Acropolis, we encounter layers of history left by the many civilisations that have shaped the island. From the summit, there are sweeping views over the village, set against golden rock and the deep blue of the Aegean Sea. This afternoon, we explore the medieval city of Rhodes, one of the best-preserved fortified towns in Europe. Enclosed within imposing walls, the old town reveals a rich tapestry of history, with its bastions, gates, minarets, fountains, and quiet squares. As we wander through its winding streets, we step back into the era of the Knights of Saint John, who ruled the island from 1314 to 1522 and constructed many of the fortifications that still stand today. This evening, we enjoy dinner on board, followed by entertainment with a distinct Greek flavour.

Our morning is spent at sea as we continue our journey through the Aegean. This afternoon, we arrive on the island of Amorgos, renowned for its dramatic landscapes and unspoilt charm. Our first visit is to the monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa, an extraordinary whitewashed structure clinging to the cliffside high above the sea. Built over a thousand years ago to house a revered icon of the Virgin Mary, the monastery offers breathtaking panoramic views across the Aegean. A climb of 269 steps brings us to the monastery, where we are welcomed with traditional hospitality, including local sweets and a glass of raki or water. We then continue to Chora, the island’s picturesque capital, where you will have time to explore its narrow streets and traditional architecture at your leisure.

This morning, we arrive on the island of Syros, a place defined by its striking contrasts in colour and architecture. Our exploration begins in Ano Syros, where Venetian influences blend with traditional Cycladic design, all set against sweeping views of the Aegean Sea. We then continue to Ermoupolis, the island’s elegant capital, where marble-paved streets and neoclassical buildings create a distinctive, almost timeless atmosphere. In the main square stands the impressive City Hall, designed by Ernst Ziller, a landmark of the town’s rich cultural heritage. You will have some free time to explore at your leisure before returning to the ship. This afternoon is at leisure, giving you the opportunity to explore further, relax on board, or take in the views from the Sun Deck. This evening, we gather for our festive gala dinner on board.

This morning is spent at sea as we make our way back towards Athens. Take time to relax on the Sun Deck or enjoy the onboard facilities as we approach Piraeus. This afternoon’s excursion takes us into the heart of Athens. Perched high above the city on a rocky outcrop, the Acropolis stands as one of the most enduring symbols of ancient Greece. Over centuries, this remarkable site has served as a fortress, a place of worship, and a residence for nobility. Today, its carefully preserved ruins offer a powerful glimpse into its former grandeur. As you explore, you will encounter iconic landmarks such as the Parthenon, the Propylaea, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike - each a testament to the artistic and architectural achievements of classical civilisation. After returning to the ship, we enjoy our final evening of entertainment on board.

Enjoy breakfast on board this morning before disembarking at 9:00 a.m and making our onward journeys.