Eastern Mediterranean Cruises

Archive for October, 2009

• Kusadasi

Ancient Ephesus – 3 Hrs

Through the colourful town of Kusadasi, drive along the coast and into the verdant countryside to reach Ephesus, famous in antiquity for its Temple of Artemis – one of the seven wonders of the ancient world – and later the home of St. John. During the years of the Roman Empire, the Greek port of Ephesus became the greatest city in Asia Minor.

Upon arrival at Ephesus, follow your guide to enter this amazing ancient city through the Magnesian Gate. Here, discover innumerable monuments including the Forum, the Odeon, the Library of Celsus, the Thermal Baths of Scolastika and the Great Theatre of Antiquity built in the Greek era and reconstructed in the Roman period, which is still noted for its remarkable acoustics. View the symbols all around and marvel at the fact that one is still able to read the inscriptions in the ancient Greek language.

Walk back to your motor coach along the Arcadian Way, where once Mark Antony and Cleopatra rode in procession. As you drive back to Kusadasi, on a hill above Selcuk, just outside Ephesus, view the Basilica of St. John, which was erected over his grave in the 6th Century AD by the Emperor Justinian. Just downhill, is the site of the famous Temple of Artemis (Diana), one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, today in ruins. For the people who actually visited it, the answer was simple. It was not just a temple… It was the most beautiful structure on earth… described by Philon of Byzantium: “I have seen the walls and Hanging Gardens of ancient Babylon, the statue of Olympian Zeus, the Colossus of Rhodes, the mighty work of the high Pyramids and the tomb of Mausolus. But when I saw the temple at Ephesus rising to the clouds, all these other wonder were put in the shade”.

Before returning to the ship, enjoy free time in Kusadasi to shop for every conceivable item, such as carpets, jewellery, local souvenirs, leather goods and Turkish delights.

Ancient Ephesus & the House of the Virgin Mary – 3 Hrs 30 Mnts

Driving from the pier through the Turkish countryside along a hilly drive, you arrive at the House of Virgin Mary where the Blessed Virgin is reputed to have spent the last years of her life. The site was made famous by the travels of Pope Paul VI and Pope John Paul II. In November of 2006, Pope Benedictus the 16th paid an official visit to the House of the Virgin Mary. Outside is the Fountain of Our Lady, providing the faithful water from the holy foundation.

Afterwards, you will drive to the Ancient City of Ephesus that was built on a small hill, with the entrance located at the top of the hill and the exit at the bottom. Colonised by Ionian Greeks in the 10th century BC, the site has impressive remains from the Hellenistic and Roman periods, such as public bath complexes (including public latrines), a theatre that could hold up to 25000 spectators and the façade of the Library of Celsius. The latter has been heavily restored and is notable for its historical accuracy. It is a prime example of Roman architecture and one of the most breathtaking and unique monuments of antiquity in the whole world. Ephesus was also the site of the famous temple of Artemis, said to be one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World – only one column survives of this celebrated edifice.

Before returning to the ship, enjoy free time in Kusadasi to shop for every conceivable item, such as carpets, jewellery, local souvenirs, leather goods and Turkish delights.

• Patmos

The Monastery of St John & Grotto – 2 Hrs 30 Mnts

Departing from the port of Scala you will enjoy a short journey to the village of Chora, where the Monastery of St. John is built within the walls of a strong fortification. As you walk uphill towards the entrance of the Monastery marvel at this magnificent structure which was built 900 years ago, exceptional in its architecture. View the courtyard, the Monks’ dining room and the old bakery before you visit the main church noting its outstanding frescoes and interior decoration. Next, see the priceless ecclesiastical treasures housed in the beautiful but small museum: books and manuscripts, mosaics, icons, splendid medieval textiles and vestments as well as jewellery.

Return to your motor coach to continue on to the nearby Grotto of the Apocalypse, above which stands the church of the Apocalypse, a sub-unit of the main Monastery. Walk down the steps to visit the Grotto of the Apocalypse. Here you will see the silver niches in the wall, that mark the pillow and ledge used as a desk by the author of the Book of Revelations as well as the three-fold fissure made by the Voice of God emphasizing the honour of the Trinity.

Afterwards, drive back to the port of Scala and enjoy some free time in this quaint and picturesque harbour.

Patmos Island Tour – 2 Hrs 30 Mnts

A delightful scenic island tour has been designed for those guests who prefer to discover the beauties of Patmos within the comfort of the air-conditioned motor coach. Commencing your tour from the port of Skala, you will drive to the dominating central part of the island “Chora”, which is the location of the Majestic Byzantine Monastery of St. John the Divine, built in 1088.

Your sightseeing will first bring you to the windmills of Chora, once the landmark of all Aegean islands. Enjoy the view and photo opportunity and then, continue to visit the new active convent of Evangelismos (Annunciation) in the south part of the island, which has a significant number of nuns who follow the traditions.

Afterwards, continue your drive around the island to see its landscape of outstanding natural beauty with dozens of peninsulas of land reaching out into the sea, tranquil beaches and many picturesque inlets. Arriving at the village of Kambos located in the north part of the island, you will be welcomed with refreshments and a traditional local sweet.

Your tour will end in the port of Scala where you may enjoy some free time in this quaint and picturesque little harbour.

• Heraklion

The Palace of Knossos – 3 Hrs

Enjoy a drive from the Venetian lion-guarded port of Heraklion town to Knossos (approximately 30 minutes), once the capital city of the prehistoric Minoan civilization, and thought to be the basis for the original Labyrinth housing the mythological Minotaur. Follow your guide in order to visit a portion of the excavated and partially reconstructed Palace of King Minos, as well as the surrounding area. The Palace houses the Hall of the Royal Guard, decorated with frescoes and shields, the Hall of the Double Axes, and from above, the King’s Chamber housing the alabaster throne amidst paintings of griffins and lilies and the Queen’s Apartment adorned with murals of dolphins and spirals, a reminder of the legend of the Labyrinth. Moreover, view the beautiful courtyards & shrines.

Return to your motor coach and drive to the city of Heraklion, where you will have free time visiting the open exhibits at the local Archaeological Museum or visit the town and browse the shops. Afterwards, return to the port by motor coach in time for ship’s departure.

Panoramic Heraklion & Wine Tasting – 3 Hrs

Your tour begins from the Venetian lion-guarded port of Heraklion and having a scenic drive through the city to the famous wine producing of Peza, south of Heraklion. Driving through breathtaking landscape of countryside and vineyards as old as Minoan times on your way to your first stop, a modem winery, were you will see the updated procedures of wine making and sample some of the delicious Cretan wines.

Your drive continues through rural villages to the village of Archanes, the municipality in the area. Arriving to the village which is situated 10 km south of the Palace of Knossos, enjoy the quaint market town of Archanes where you can see many restored sandstone houses dating from the Turkish period. After your walking tour, you will have the opportunity to sample an assortment of Cretan snacks and locally produced wine at a local tavern in the village’s tree shaded square.

Free time to browse will be given before the return drive to the port of Heraklion and the ship.

• Santorini

Santorini Sailing & Volcano – 3 Hrs 30 Mnts

Enjoy a cruise around the active crater of Nea Kameni islet. Sail along the peculiar formations of its volcanic shores, where black lava rocks and white pumice are combined beautifully with the red colour of lava. Take a walk to the top of the volcanic island where sulphur is spewed into the air by one of the craters. Enjoy this surreal landscape as your guide narrates the creation and history of the volcano and the last eruption leading to the destruction of the island of Santorini. The tidal wave created by the eruption was of such an immense magnitude, it destroyed the thriving city of Knossos on the island of Crete.

As your caique enters the narrows of the two lava islets, Palea and Nea Kameni, note the changing colours of the water from dark blue to sulphur green. In the background, admire the breathtaking sight of Fira Town with its white washed houses clinging precariously on the rim of the Caldera.

Sail to Athenios harbour, where your motor coach will take you to Fira Town, the island’s capital. Here the tour ends and you will have free time to walk around on your own or shop, time permitting. Later, use your tour ticket on the cable car to descend to Skala, the pier at the bottom of the cliff where ship’s tenders will be waiting to take you back to the ship.

Island Tour & Oia Village – 3 Hrs 30 Mnts

Sailing into the Caldera of Santorini is like floating inside a giant open-air geological museum. Oia Village is the crowning glory of peace and tranquillity. Built on the northern tip of the Caldera rim, it is here where many artists have been inspired due to its magnificent location. As you will see for yourself, it has “out of this world” views of the Caldera, the island itself and many of the broken off islands surrounding the Caldera and Aegean Sea.

Take a short trip by boat to Athenios harbour where you will meet up with your motor coach and guide. Drive uphill along the rocky sides of the Caldera and pass through many traditional villages in order to reach the listed settlement and unique village of Oia, with its typically Cycladic architecture and its houses perched on the cliffs edge like seagulls poised for flight on this dramatic cliff-side. Accompanied by your guide, walk through the village along cobble, stoned streets marvelling at the breathtaking panoramic views and admiring the traditional architecture

Enjoy free time on your own, where you may either wander through the many art galleries available or perhaps relax over a coffee. At the specified place and time, meet back up with your guide and make your way to Fira, the capital town of the island, built on the centre of the Caldera rim. Enjoy the town at your own leisure, time permitting, and return to the small pier of Scala, where the vessel’s tendering service awaits to take you back to your ship.

Enjoy the vibrant and cosmopolitan island of Mykonos, with the scenic windmills and white washed houses. Sail on to Turkey’s popular resort of Kusadasi for smart shopping and a visit to the breathtaking ancient ruins of Ephesus. Catch the holy atmosphere of Patmos where St John wrote the Apocalypse. Discover the Venetian city of Heraklion in Crete and visit the famous archaeological site of Knossos to see the extraordinary remains of the Minoan civilisation. Finally, on the island of Santorini, enjoy the stunning sunset and the magnificent view over the Aegean.

Cruise Line: easyCruise

Sailing Dates for 2010:

• April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
• May 7, 14, 21, 28
• June 4, 11, 18, 25
• July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
• August 6, 13, 20, 27
• September 3, 10, 17, 24
• October 1, 8, 15, 22

Embarkation: Piraeus

Itinerary:

• Friday – Piraeus
• Friday – Mykonos
• Saturday – Kusadasi
• Saturday – Patmos
• Sunday – Heraklion
• Sunday – Santorini
• Monday – Piraeus

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book by 31 December 2009

View shore excursions

Cruise Ship: MSC Fantasy

Boarding Port: Genoa

Sailing Date: December 30, 2009

Travel on board of the MSC Fantasia. Departing from Genoa  and calls to  Naples, Rhodes, Alexandria, Messina, Civitavecchia/Rome, Genoa  .

Itinerary:

1. Genoa
2. Naples
3. At Sea
4. Rhodes
5. Alexandria
6. At Sea
7. Messina
8. Civitavecchia/Rome
9. Genoa

Rates per person:

• Interior $ 1099
• Interior $ 1169
• Interior $ 1199
• Oceanview  $ 1299
• Oceanview $ 1349
• Oceanview with Balcony     $ 1449
• Oceanview with Balcony     $ 1489
• Oceanview with Balcony     $ 1529
• Superior Balcony     $ 1579
• Superior Balcony     $ 1619
• Superior Balcony     $ 1649
• Standard Suite     $ 3699
• Executive & Family Suite     $ 4419
• Royal Suite with Balcony $ 4519

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Cruise Ship: MSC Splendida

Boarding Port: Genoa

Sailing Date: December 19, 2009

Travel on board of the MSC Splendida. Departing from Genoa  and calls to  Katakolon, Piraeus/Athens, Rhodes, Alexandria, Marmaris, Heraklion, Messina, Naples, Genoa  .

Itinerary:

1. Genoa
2. At Sea
3. Katakolon
4. Piraeus/Athens
5. Rhodes
6. Alexandria
7. At Sea
8. Heraklion
9. Messina
10. Civitavecchia/Rome
11. Genoa

Rates per person:

• Interior $ 1249
• Interior $ 1319
• Interior $ 1349
• Oceanview  $ 1449
• Oceanview $ 1499
• Oceanview with Balcony     $ 1649
• Oceanview with Balcony     $ 1689
• Oceanview with Balcony     $ 1729
• Superior Balcony     $ 1779
• Superior Balconyy     $ 1819
• Superior Balcony     $ 1849
• Suite with Balcony     $ 4349
• Standard Suite     $ 4799
• Executive & Family Suite     $ 5199
• Royal Suite with Balcony $ 5379

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Cruise Ship: MSC Splendida

Boarding Port: Genoa

Sailing Date: December 8, 2009

Travel on board of the MSC Splendida. Departing from Genoa  and calls to  Katakolon, Piraeus/Athens, Rhodes, Alexandria, Marmaris, Heraklion, Messina, Naples, Genoa  .

Itinerary:

1. Genoa
2. At Sea
3. Katakolon
4. Piraeus/Athens
5. Rhodes
6. Alexandria
7. At Sea
8. Marmaris
9. Heraklion
10. Messina
11. Naples
12. Genoa

Rates per person:

• Interior $ 1099
• Interior $ 1169
• Interior $ 1199
• Oceanview  $ 1399
• Oceanview $ 1449
• Oceanview with Balcony     $ 1749
• Oceanview with Balcony     $ 1789
• Oceanview with Balcony     $ 1829
• Oceanview with Balcony     $ 1879
• Oceanview with Balcony     $ 1919
• Oceanview with Balcony     $ 1949

• Suite with Balcony     $ 4749
• Standard Suite     $ 5169
• Deluxe Suites     $ 5169
• Executive Suite $ 5729
• Royal Suite $ 5889

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Cruise Ship: MSC Splendida

Boarding Port: Genoa

Sailing Date: November 27, 2009

Travel on board of the MSC Splendida. Departing from Genoa  and calls to  Katakolon, Piraeus/Athens, Rhodes, Alexandria, Marmaris, Heraklion, Messina, Naples, Genoa  .

Itinerary:

1. Genoa
2. At Sea
3. Katakolon
4. Piraeus/Athens
5. Rhodes
6. Alexandria
7. At Sea
8. Marmaris
9. Heraklion
10. Messina
11. Naples
12. Genoa

Rates per person:

• Interior $ 1099
• Interior $ 1169
• Interior $ 1199
• Oceanview  $ 1399
• Oceanview $ 1449
• Oceanview with Balcony     $ 1749
• Oceanview with Balcony     $ 1789
• Oceanview with Balcony     $ 1829
• Oceanview with Balcony     $ 1879
• Oceanview with Balcony     $ 1919
• Oceanview with Balcony     $ 1949
• Suite with Balcony     $ 4749
• Standard Suite     $ 5169
• Deluxe Suites     $ 5169
• Executive Suite $ 5729
• Royal Suite $ 5889

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Cruise Ship: MSC Splendida

Boarding Port: Barcelona

Sailing Date: November 16, 2009

Travel on board of the MSC Splendida. Departing from Barcelona  and calls to  Genoa, Katakolon, Piraeus/Athens, Rhodes, Alexandria, Heraklion, Messina, Naples, Genoa . Theme cruise activites will be carried out in French, German & Italian.

Itinerary:

1. Barcelona
2. Genoa
3. At Sea
4. Katakolon
5. Piraeus/Athens
6. Rhodes
7. Alexandria
8. At Sea
9. Heraklion
10. Messina
11. Naples
12. Genoa

Rates per person:

• Interior $ 999
• Interior $ 1069
• Interior $ 1099
• Oceanview  $ 1299
• Oceanview $ 1349
• Oceanview with Balcony     $ 1649
• Oceanview with Balcony     $ 1689
• Oceanview with Balcony     $ 1729
• Oceanview with Balcony     $ 1779
• Oceanview with Balcony     $ 1819
• Oceanview with Balcony     $ 1849
• Suite with Balcony     $ 2449
• Standard Suite     $ 5059
• Deluxe Suites     $ 5189
• Executive Suite $ 5319
• Royal Suite $ 5479

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Cruise Ship: Seabourn Odyssey

Sailing Date: May 15, 2010

Itinerary:

1. Istanbul, Turkey
2. Dikili, Turkey
3. Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey
4. Bodrum, Turkey
5. Santorini, Greece
6. Mylos, Greece
7. Navplion, Greece
8. Piraeus (Athens), Greece

Rates per person:

• Grand Suite GR

Located all the way forward in the bow of the ship with three verandas and expansive ocean views. Feature include living room with dining area, two bedrooms with queen-size beds or two twin beds, two bathrooms with separate tub (one whirlpool) and shower, guest bath, butler pantry with wet bar, two fully stocked bars, one makeup vanity, two walk-in closets with personal safe, one alcove closet and three flat-screen televisions with DVD.

Brochure fares – $30,200

Best available fares – $14,948

• Wintergarden Suite WG

Features include a living room with convertible sofa bed for one and dining area, bathroom with separate whirlpool tub and shower, guest bath, butler pantry with wet bar, veranda, glass-enclosed solarium, bedroom with queen-size bed or two twin beds, large walk-in closet with personal safe, two flat-screen televisions with DVD and fully stocked bar.

Brochure fares – $22,100

Best available fares – $11,499

• Signature Suite SS

Features include a living room, dining area and forward-facing windows, two verandas, bedroom with queen-size bed or two twin beds, large walk-in closet with personal safe, bathroom with separate whirlpool tub and shower, guest bath, two flat-screen televisions with DVD, butler pantry with wet bar and fully stocked bar.

Brochure fares – $20,400

Best available fares – $10,499

• Owner’s Suite OW

Features include a living room, dining area, forward-facing windows, spacious veranda, bedroom with queen-size bed or two twin beds, large walk-in closet with personal safe, spacious master bathroom with separate tub and shower, guest bath, two flat-screen televisions with DVD, butler pantry with wet bar and fully stocked bar.

Brochure fares – $16,900

Best available fares – $8,249

• Penthouse Suite PH

Features include living area with dining for four, glass door to private veranda, separate bedroom with queen-size bed or two twin beds, wardrobe closet with personal safe, two flat-screen televisions with DVD, fully stocked bar, spacious master bathroom with roll-in shower.

Brochure fares – $14,300

Best available fares – $6,749

• Veranda Suite V6

Features include living area and bedroom with queen-size bed or two twin beds, full-length window and glass door to private veranda, wardrobe closet with personal safe, flat-screen television with DVD, CD stereo player, fully stocked bar, makeup vanity and spacious bathroom with separate tub and shower.

Brochure fares – $10,800

Best available fares – $4,749

• Veranda Suite V5

Features include living area and bedroom with queen-size bed or two twin beds, full-length window and glass door to private veranda, wardrobe closet with personal safe, flat-screen television with DVD, CD stereo player, fully stocked bar, makeup vanity and spacious bathroom with separate tub and shower.

Brochure fares – $10,300

Best available fares – $4,599

• Veranda Suite V4

Features include living area and bedroom with queen-size bed or two twin beds, full-length window and glass door to private veranda, wardrobe closet with personal safe, flat-screen television with DVD, CD stereo player, fully stocked bar, makeup vanity and spacious bathroom with separate tub and shower.

Brochure fares – $9,800

Best available fares – $4,449

• Veranda Suite V3

Features include living area and bedroom with queen-size bed or two twin beds, full-length window and glass door to private veranda, wardrobe closet with personal safe, flat-screen television with DVD, CD stereo player, fully stocked bar, makeup vanity and spacious bathroom with separate tub and shower.

Brochure fares – $9,400

Best available fares – $4,299

• Veranda Suite V2

Features include living area and bedroom with queen-size bed or two twin beds, full-length window and glass door to mini balcony, wardrobe closet with personal safe, flat-screen television with DVD, CD stereo player, fully stocked bar, makeup vanity and spacious bathroom with separate tub and shower.

Brochure fares – $9,000

Best available fares – $4,149

• Veranda Suite V1

Features include living area and bedroom with queen-size bed or two twin beds, full-length window and glass door to veranda with partial glass windscreen, wardrobe closet with personal safe, flat-screen television with DVD, CD stereo player, fully stocked bar, makeup vanity and spacious bathroom with separate tub and shower.

Brochure fares – $8,700

Best available fares – $3,999

• Suite A1

Features include living area and bedroom with queen-size bed or two twin beds, picture window, walk-in closet with personal safe, flat-screen television with DVD, CD stereo player, fully stocked bar, makeup vanity and spacious bathroom with separate tub and shower.

Brochure fares – $8,300

Best available fares – $3,749

• Seabourn Suite A

Features include living area and bedroom with queen-size bed or two twin beds, picture window, walk-in closet with personal safe, flat-screen television with DVD, CD stereo player, fully stocked bar, makeup vanity and spacious bathroom with separate tub and shower.

Brochure fares – $7,900

Best available fares – $3,499

Journeys:

Cappadocia Extension – Pre Package Program

Some of the most fantastic landscapes on earth are in Cappadocia: deep ravines, lava pinnacles and “”fairy chimneys.”" Early Christians once carved churches, homes and cities into the soft rock. Marvel at the surreal scenery. Visit traditional Turkish villages. You can even float above it all on an optional hot-air balloon ride.

> Day 1

Upon arrival in Istanbul, you will be transferred to the Swissotel, in the city center. The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore.

> Day 2

After breakfast taken at the hotel, you will have the full day city tour of Istanbul. Today’s program will start with a visit to the Blue Mosque, which is world famous with more than 21,000 Iznik tiles decorating the interior. The next stop will be the St. Sophia Museum. The St. Sophia is one of the most famous structures in the world, and if any one building can be said to give a real sense of Istanbul’s history, then this is it. Before lunch, you will also see the Chora Museum. Dating from the early 12th century, the former Church of The Saviour in Chora contains some of Istanbul’s finest Byzantine frescoes and mosaics, depicting the life of Christ, which are superbly preserved and tremendously evocative.

Lunch will be served at Asitane Restaurant. The restaurant lies in the shadow of the mighty Chora Church, which you have seen a little while ago. The restaurant, whose dishes reflect the eclectic nature of the Turco-Ottoman neighbourhood, was named Asitane which not only means “Head Gate” in Persian but was also one of the many names given to Istanbul throughout the reign of the Ottoman Empire. Thus it was decided that the restaurant should specialize in fine Ottoman court cuisine.

Following lunch, you will visit the Grand Bazaar. An unbelievable place‚ The Grand Bazaar (Kapali Carsi, or Covered Bazaar in Turkish) is the largest retail space of its type in the world. The complex was built by Sultan Mehmet II, and covers several city blocks.

At the end of the program, you will return to the hotel.

Overnight at Swissotel the Bosphorus.

> Day 3

A morning flight takes you to the spectacular Cappadocia region. The strange but beautiful formation of Cappadocia has had this appearance for million years. When the volcanoes in the region were active, the lava that poured out covered all previously formed hills and valleys forming a high plateau. This newly formed plateau consists mainly of tuff and some rare layers of basalt. Because of the destruction of the tuff and the basalt layers by heavy rains, melting snow in the spring and sharp temperature changes, these different materials have produced capped columns, pyramids, caves conical formations with dark-colored caps known as fairy chimneys. The early Christians used this region to hide from their enemies and live in confidence. Also they dug many caves into the soft rocks and constructed chapels and monasteries. Those chapels and monasteries are very famous today for their frescoes and paintings.
Today, visit the panoramic citadel of Uchisar, the G??reme Valley Open Air Museum and villages of the Zelve Valley.

Continue to the Cappadocia Museum Hotel for dinner and a two-night stay.

> Day 4

If you opt for a sunrise balloon ride over this land of “”fairy chimneys,”" return to the hotel for a late breakfast.
After the breakfast, you will proceed to Soganli Valley / Village. This valley is situated near Yesilhisar in the province of Kayseri, 30 km southeast of Urgup, and 25 km to the east of Derinkuyu. Fractures and collapses during earthquakes have added to erosion resulting in deep valleys and canyons. Soganli valley,which is divided into two has been occupied since the Roman period. The rock cones found on the sides of the valley were used a graves by the Romans, and later as churches by the Byzantines. Here, you will meet the villagers to have an idea about the local life in the area.

The four-night pre- or post-cruise journey in Istanbul features:

1. Two nights at Istanbul’s Swissotel the Bosphorus
2. Two nights at Cappadocia Museum Hotel
3. Breakfast daily, four lunches and two dinners
4. Domestic air transportation, economy class
5. One half-day tour in Istanbul and two full-day tours in Cappadocia

Note: A minimum number of participants are required for this program to operate.

• The Glories of Ephesus

Discover one of the world’s most beautiful archaeological sites, and walk on marble streets past Roman buildings such as the Celsus Library. Explore other ancient treasures along the coast from Izmir’s Archaeological Museum to the Acropolis of Pergamum. Visit the house where the Virgin Mary is said to have spent her last days.

Features
The three-night add-on to the pre- or post-cruise Turkish Delight Journey in Istanbul features:

* Two nights at the Hilton Hotel in Izmir, one night at the Renaissance Polat Hotel in Istanbul
* Economy class air between Istanbul and Izmir
* Breakfast daily, plus two lunches and three dinners
* Two full-day guided tours of ancient sites

Terms
Note: A minimum number of participants are required for this program to operate.

• Turkish Delight Pre-Cruise – Çiragan Palace & Swissotel

No other city on earth is like Istanbul, the timeless crossroads of Europe and Asia. Begin your tour in Old Town at the Blue Mosque, famed for its six soaring minarets. Be awed by the Byzantine splendor of Hagia Sophia, the 6th-century Church of Holy Wisdom. Glimpse the Ottoman sultans’ way of life preserved in Topkapi Palace. Savor the vivid scene in the Grand Bazaar with its exotic labyrinth of 3,000 stores and workshops.

Features
The three-night pre-cruise journey in Istanbul features:

* Three nights at the Swissôtel or Çiragan Palace
* Breakfast daily, one lunch and one dinner
* One full-day and two half-day tours of Istanbul

Terms
Note: A minimum number of participants are required for this program to operate.

Cruise Ship: Seabourn Spirit

Sailing Date: May 8, 2010

Itinerary:

1. Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy
2. Sorrento, Italy
3. Lipari Island, Italy
4. CRUISING THE IONIAN SEA
5. Katakolon, (Olympia), Greece
6. Itea, (Delphi), Greece
7. Navplion, Greece
8. Piraeus (Athens), Greece

Rates per person:

• Owner’s Suite OW

Features include living room with semi-circular couch and expansive ocean view, dining area, forward-facing private veranda, bedroom with one queen-size bed only, two spacious alcove closets (on Seabourn Legend, one walk-in closet and one alcove closet), two flat-screen televisions with DVD players, Bose Wave CD stereo system, fully stocked bar, one bathroom with tub, shower and large vanity, one guest bath with vanity, and a personal safe.

Brochure fares – $20,300

Best available fares – $8,120

• Classic Suite

Features include living area with forward-facing window, bedroom with one queen-sized bed only, private veranda with French doors and partial view, spacious alcove closets, flat-screen television with DVD player and Bose Wave CD stereo system, fully stocked bar, generous bathroom with tub, shower, and lard vanity, and personal safe.

Brochure fares – $15,100

Best available fares – $6,040

• Double Suite

Consists of two Category A1 suites combined. Features include living room with two picture windows. Bedroom with one queen-size or two twin beds, dining room (which converts to a second bedroom with one foldout queen-size bed only), two walk-in closets, two flat-screen televisions with DVD player, Bose Wave CD Stereo System, fully stocked bar, two spacious bathrooms (one with tub/shower and one with the shower only), and a personal safe. Also available are youth beds (Seabourn Pride and Spirit only) and rollaway beds (all ships). Double Suite combinations are also possible in Suite categories A2 and B2 (Deck 5), A3 and B3 (Deck 6). Fares Based on 180% of the applicable fare for suite category sold singly. One Seabourn Pride, Double Suite combinations are not available in B2 and B3 categories. Note: Combinations 208/210 and 209/211 have two bathrooms with tubs, available on Seabourn Spirit only.

Brochure fares – $13,500

Best available fares – $5,758

• Balcony Suite

Providing doors opening to fresh sea breezes from a private mini-balcony, these suites share the same features and attributes as listed below for Category A-A3: Features include living area and bedroom, one queen-size bed or two twin beds, picture window, walk-in closet, flat-screen television with DVD player, Bose Wave CD stereo system, fully stocked bar, spacious bathroom with tub, shower, and large vanity, and personal safe. Also available are youth beds (Seabourn Pride and Spirit only) and rollaway beds (all ships).

Brochure fares – $10,600

Best available fares – $4,199

• Balcony Suite

Providing doors opening to fresh sea breezes from a private mini-balcony, these suites share the same features and attributes as listed below for Category A-A3: Features include living area and bedroom, one queen-size bed or two twin beds, picture window, walk-in closet, flat-screen television with DVD player, Bose Wave CD stereo system, fully stocked bar, spacious bathroom with tub, shower, and large vanity, and personal safe. Also available are youth beds (Seabourn Pride and Spirit only) and rollaway beds (all ships).

Brochure fares – $9,800

Best available fares – $3,999

• Suite

Features include living area and bedroom, one queen-size bed or two twin beds, picture window, walk-in closet, flat-screen television with DVD player, Bose Wave CD stereo system, fully stocked bar, spacious bathroom with tub, shower, and large vanity, and personal safe. Also available are youth beds (Seabourn Pride and Spirit only) and rollaway beds (all ships).

Brochure fares – $8,400

Best available fares – $3,599

• Suite

Features include living area and bedroom, one queen-size bed or two twin beds, picture window, walk-in closet, flat-screen television with DVD player, Bose Wave CD stereo system, fully stocked bar, spacious bathroom with tub, shower, and large vanity, and personal safe. Also available are youth beds (Seabourn Pride and Spirit only) and rollaway beds (all ships).

Brochure fares – $8,000

Best available fares – $3,399

• Suite

Features include living area and bedroom, one queen-size bed or two twin beds, picture window, walk-in closet, flat-screen television with DVD player, Bose Wave CD Stereo System, fully stocked bar, spacious bathroom with tub, shower and large vanity, and personal safe. Also available are youth beds (Seabourn Pride and Spirit only) and rollaway beds (all ships).

Brochure fares – $7,500

Best available fares – $3,199

• Seabourn Suite

Features include living area and bedroom, one queen-size bed or two twin beds, picture window, walk-in closet, flat-screen television with DVD player, Bose Wave CD Stereo System, fully stocked bar, spacious bathroom with tub, shower and large vanity, and personal safe. Also available are youth beds (Seabourn Pride and Spirit only) and rollaway beds (all ships).

Brochure fares – $7,100

Best available fares – $2,999

Cruise Ship: Seabourn Odyssey

Sailing Date: May 8, 2010

Itinerary:

1. Piraeus (Athens), Greece
2. Mylos, Greece
3. Rhodes, Greece
4. Patmos, Greece
5. Khylos,(Khios) Greece
6. Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey
7. CRUISING THE DARDANDELLES
8. Istanbul, Turkey

Rates per person:

• Grand Suite GR

Located all the way forward in the bow of the ship with three verandas and expansive ocean views. Feature include living room with dining area, two bedrooms with queen-size beds or two twin beds, two bathrooms with separate tub (one whirlpool) and shower, guest bath, butler pantry with wet bar, two fully stocked bars, one makeup vanity, two walk-in closets with personal safe, one alcove closet and three flat-screen televisions with DVD.

Brochure fares – $30,200

Best available fares – $14,948

• Wintergarden Suite WG

Features include a living room with convertible sofa bed for one and dining area, bathroom with separate whirlpool tub and shower, guest bath, butler pantry with wet bar, veranda, glass-enclosed solarium, bedroom with queen-size bed or two twin beds, large walk-in closet with personal safe, two flat-screen televisions with DVD and fully stocked bar.

Brochure fares – $22,100

Best available fares – $11,499

• Signature Suite SS

Features include a living room, dining area and forward-facing windows, two verandas, bedroom with queen-size bed or two twin beds, large walk-in closet with personal safe, bathroom with separate whirlpool tub and shower, guest bath, two flat-screen televisions with DVD, butler pantry with wet bar and fully stocked bar.

Brochure fares – $20,400

Best available fares – $10,499

• Owner’s Suite OW

Features include a living room, dining area, forward-facing windows, spacious veranda, bedroom with queen-size bed or two twin beds, large walk-in closet with personal safe, spacious master bathroom with separate tub and shower, guest bath, two flat-screen televisions with DVD, butler pantry with wet bar and fully stocked bar.

Brochure fares – $16,900

Best available fares – $8,249

• Penthouse Suite PH

Features include living area with dining for four, glass door to private veranda, separate bedroom with queen-size bed or two twin beds, wardrobe closet with personal safe, two flat-screen televisions with DVD, fully stocked bar, spacious master bathroom with roll-in shower.

Brochure fares – $14,300

Best available fares – $6,749

• Veranda Suite V6

Features include living area and bedroom with queen-size bed or two twin beds, full-length window and glass door to private veranda, wardrobe closet with personal safe, flat-screen television with DVD, CD stereo player, fully stocked bar, makeup vanity and spacious bathroom with separate tub and shower.

Brochure fares – $10,800

Best available fares – $4,749

• Veranda Suite V5

Features include living area and bedroom with queen-size bed or two twin beds, full-length window and glass door to private veranda, wardrobe closet with personal safe, flat-screen television with DVD, CD stereo player, fully stocked bar, makeup vanity and spacious bathroom with separate tub and shower.

Brochure fares – $10,300

Best available fares – $4,599

• Veranda Suite V4

Features include living area and bedroom with queen-size bed or two twin beds, full-length window and glass door to private veranda, wardrobe closet with personal safe, flat-screen television with DVD, CD stereo player, fully stocked bar, makeup vanity and spacious bathroom with separate tub and shower.

Brochure fares – $9,800

Best available fares – $4,449

• Veranda Suite V3

Features include living area and bedroom with queen-size bed or two twin beds, full-length window and glass door to private veranda, wardrobe closet with personal safe, flat-screen television with DVD, CD stereo player, fully stocked bar, makeup vanity and spacious bathroom with separate tub and shower.

Brochure fares – $9,400

Best available fares – $4,299

• Veranda Suite V2

Features include living area and bedroom with queen-size bed or two twin beds, full-length window and glass door to mini balcony, wardrobe closet with personal safe, flat-screen television with DVD, CD stereo player, fully stocked bar, makeup vanity and spacious bathroom with separate tub and shower.

Brochure fares – $9,000

Best available fares – $4,149

• Veranda Suite V1

Features include living area and bedroom with queen-size bed or two twin beds, full-length window and glass door to veranda with partial glass windscreen, wardrobe closet with personal safe, flat-screen television with DVD, CD stereo player, fully stocked bar, makeup vanity and spacious bathroom with separate tub and shower.

Brochure fares – $8,700

Best available fares – $3,999

• Suite A1

Features include living area and bedroom with queen-size bed or two twin beds, picture window, walk-in closet with personal safe, flat-screen television with DVD, CD stereo player, fully stocked bar, makeup vanity and spacious bathroom with separate tub and shower.

Brochure fares – $8,300

Best available fares – $3,749

• Seabourn Suite A

Features include living area and bedroom with queen-size bed or two twin beds, picture window, walk-in closet with personal safe, flat-screen television with DVD, CD stereo player, fully stocked bar, makeup vanity and spacious bathroom with separate tub and shower.

Brochure fares – $7,900

Best available fares – $3,499

Journeys:

It’s the same with the Aegean Odyssey. You can view them here