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A Journey Through the Golden Age of Greece
Embark on a voyage through history dedicated to the Golden Age of Greek civilization and beyond. This immersive cruise features guest lecturer Eugenia Alexiadou, a distinguished historian with a Master’s degree in Byzantine Art. As a graduate of the Athens Tour Guide Academy, Eugenia is the perfect tutor to guide you through the classical sites and historical wonders we visit.
An Exploration of Greece’s Hidden Gems
This journey offers a unique blend of breathtaking cruising and in-depth historical exploration. Visit some of Greece’s most beautiful yet less-traveled destinations, where history comes alive through the remnants of classical antiquity, the rise of the Roman Empire, and the dawn of Byzantium. Each stop reveals a new chapter in the story of European civilization.
Unraveling the Legacy of the Byzantine Empire
Often overlooked by Western historians, the Byzantine Empire lasted over 1,000 years and profoundly shaped European history and culture. This masterclass in history, paired with the comforts of a luxury cruise, provides an exceptional opportunity to discuss the day’s discoveries over delightful dinners. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply eager for an enriching cultural experience, this voyage is a true tour de force.
Return flights from the UK & In-destination transfers
7 Night Cruise on Board
M/S Galileo on a Full-board basis
2 Night stay in Royal Olympic Hotel on a Bed & Breakfast basis
Day By Day
Itinerary
Departure Dates
& Prices
Insights from Our Resident Lecturer: Gain expert knowledge and historical context from our esteemed lecturer.
The Amphitheatre at Epidaurus: Experience the legendary acoustics of this ancient Greek theatre, a marvel of classical architecture.
Nafplion & Ancient Mycenae: Stroll through Nafplion’s Venetian charm and uncover the secrets of Mycenae, the kingdom of Agamemnon.
The Mani Peninsula & Dirou Caves: Discover the rugged beauty of the Mani region and explore the stunning underground lakes of the Dirou Caves.
Ancient Olympia: Visit the birthplace of the Olympic Games and admire the ruins of the Temple of Zeus.
The Oracle at Delphi: Walk in the footsteps of ancient pilgrims who sought the wisdom of the Pythia at the Temple of Apollo.
The Corinth Canal: Witness the engineering feat that connects the Aegean and Ionian seas, a dramatic waterway carved through solid rock.
You will be met in Athens airport and transferred to the Royal Olympic hotel for a 2-night stay. Newly refurbished as a 5-star ‘Art Hotel’, and reopening in August 2020, the Royal Olympic is one of the most exciting places to stay in Athens.
Luxury & EleganceIt’s the ideal place for people who like their holiday accommodation to be a little extravagant. The public areas are sumptuously appointed, and the rooms are elegant.
Explore Athens at leisure, or an Athens tour can be organized for you. Please ask for details.
Nearby AttractionsAs such, you’ll find yourself within a 500m stroll of all the famous places to go and see in Athens, such as the Roman Agora, Syntagma, and Hadrian’s Arch – and, of course, the Acropolis itself.
Start Your Day EarlyIt’s the perfect place to grab an early breakfast so you can get to the hot spots before the tourists and be first in the queue.
Welcome drinks while we set sail for Palia Epidauros.
Embarkation TimeEmbarkation Time: 14:00
The highlight here is the ancient amphitheatre – one of the best-preserved sites of Ancient Greece. You’ll hear its story this morning before returning to Galileo for lunch.
Cruising to NafplionAfter lunch, we set sail and cruise off to Nafplion.
Old Nafplion is worth a stroll around early this morning, offering charming streets and historical ambiance.
Exploring Mycenae – The City of GoldThe day’s real treasure is the city of Mycenae, which Homer called "rich in gold," representing everything great about Greece’s ‘Golden Age.’ Founded in 1650 BC, Mycenae endured nearly 700 years until the fall of the Mycenaean dynasty around 1100 BC. There is plenty to see and great stories to tell.
Overnight Sailing to GythionOvernight, we sail to Gythion.
Ancient Gythion was a Spartan naval base during the Peloponnesian wars. Today, it serves as our gateway to exploring the Mani Peninsula, Cape Tenaro, and the spectacular Dirou Caves.
Evening Departure to PylosAfter dinner on board, we cast anchor and sail for Pylos.
Today, Pylos is a charming little seaside resort. However, in 1827, it was the site of one of the most important naval battles of the time – the Battle of Navarino, where a combined British, French, and Russian fleet liberated Greece from the clutches of the Ottoman Empire.
Excursion to the Palace of NestorYou’ll hear all about this historic battle as we make an excursion to the Palace of Nestor, located on a scenic hilltop overlooking the bay.
Having sailed overnight, we arrive in Katakolon early in the morning and quickly set off for our excursion to the legendary site of Olympia. The home of the original Olympic Games, Olympia is one of the most famous and important sites in the Ancient World.
Exploring Olympia & Its Rich HistoryAfter lunch in town, we visit the Museum of the History of the Olympic Games of Antiquity. At the main site, you can even run on the original Olympic track. It’s a fantastic and hugely impressive place, and you’ll want to make the most of your afternoon wandering around.
Sailing to IteaLater, we re-board Galileo in Patras and sail to Itea in the Gulf of Corinth, where we overnight.
Delphi, with its legendary Oracle, is one of the most revered sites in Antiquity. It is also a site of stunning natural beauty, built into a mountainside. After examining and exploring the ruins, we gain insight into the history and mysticism that made Delphi a cornerstone of the ancient world.
Transit Through the Corinth CanalWe then re-join Galileo to transit the amazing engineering feat that is the Corinth Canal. Cut through solid rock in the 1880s, this canal connects the Gulf of Corinth with the Aegean Sea, offering a breathtaking journey through its narrow passage.
Disembarkation after breakfast and transfer to Athens airport.
Optional Athens Sightseeing TourIf your flight departs late, we can organize an Athens sightseeing tour for you. Please ask for details.
Eugenia Alexiadou
Born in Athens Eugenia studied Archaeology and the History of Art at the University of Athens gaining her Master’s degree in Byzantine art. She has lectured on Greek history and ancient Greek literature. As a graduate of the Athens’ Tour Guide Academy, Eugenia is an official archaeology and Greek history tour leader.
Eugenia also has a passion for Prehistoric Aegean Civilisation and, when not exploring the history of the Peloponnese, has worked extensively on Santorini on the excavations at Akrotiri, one of the most important Bronze Ae sites in the Mediterranean.
She looks forward to meeting you and sharing her knowledge and insight:
“I am so fortunate to come from a harmonious typical Greek family that always encouraged me to do and study only what I really loved. My love for the ancient ruins, the myths, the people, the flavours and aromas, the depth of history were all encouraged by family travels and summers spent in nature .After I graduated, I decided that I want to share all this fascinating history and beauty with all the wonderful people that visit our country”
Other than history Eugenia loves dancing, having participated in the opening and closing ceremony of the 2004 Athens Olympics.
These excursions have been carefully selected to enhance your cruise experience. They are included in your cruise price
Duration approx. 3 hours
We leave our ship early in the morning to drive to Ancient Epidaurus. Epidaurus was known throughout the Greek world as a healing sanctury – It was reputed to be the birthplace of Apollo’s son Asclepius – and for its theater, which is once again in use today.
The Asclepieion at Epidaurus was the most celebrated healing center of the Classical world, the place where ill people went in the hope of being cured. The theater was designed by Polykleitos the Younger in the 4th century B.C. The original 34 rows were extended in Roman times by another 21 rows.
When full, the theatre seats up to 15,000 people. As it did during the time of the ancient Greeks, the theater is still marveled for its exceptional acoustics, which permit almost perfect perception of spoken words from the stage floor to all spectators, regardless of their seating.
We will return to our ship after completing our visit to all sites and enjoying time at leisure.
Duration approx. 4 hours
After a short drive through the colourful city of Nafplion and the beautiful fertile countryside of Argolis arrive at Mycenae, a major centre of Greek Civilization. The importance of the city, which Homer calls “rich in gold” begins in 1650 B.C and ceases around 1100 B.C with the fall of the civilization to which it gives name. Visit the remains of the ancient glorious city now a UNESCO World Heritage site, including the Cyclopean walls, the famous Lion’s Gate, the Palace –home to the Kingdom of mythical Agamemnon, the so called Agamemnon Tomb and the museum. Mycenae in legend was the royal seat of the ill-fated House of Atreus, and from Mycenae Agamemnon, “king of men”, went off as leader of the Achaean expedition to war against Troy. At the end of the tour we will have a short guided walk in the historical centre of Nafplion, first Capital of modern Greece.
Duration approx. 6 hours
Ancient Gythion was inhabited during prehistoric times and later the Spartans used as a port, enlarging the natural harbor they made Gythion their naval base. . Leaving Gythion we will cross the scenic Mani Peninsula to reach Diros and visit the spectacular caves, discovered around the 60s, which are perhaps among the most important natural sites of Greece. The Paleolithic and Neolithic findings, many in display at the museum, mean that the caves were one of the earliest inhabited places in Greece. The human skeletons are those of unburied dead, a fact which has led the Head of Antiquities to suggest that at the end of the Neolithic period or at the beginning of the Bronze Age, a severe earthquake shook the area blocking the mouth of the cave, so that its inhabitants were walled up and died of starvation. The cave entrance remained sealed for about 4.500 years. The cave today is partially filled with water so we will board small fishing boats and explore the cave which is full of stalactites and stalagmites. After visiting the cave we will drive to nearby Areopolis for a short stroll through the town. Mani is at the tip of the Peloponnese, a distinctive area unlike any other area in Greece. A desolate region of underground lakes and rivers, windswept landscapes and towers who is strangely beautiful.
Duration approx. 3,5 hours
Pylos town sits on the backside of stately Navarino Bay the site of several famous naval battles: In Antiquity between the Spartans and Athenians during the Peloponnesian conflict. In 1827 a fleet ofVenetians and other city states defeated an Ottoman fleet in one of the most important naval battles in history. This defeat led to the independence of Greece, which occurred in 1829.
After stopping to admire the scenery, we will continue up the road to Nestor’s Palace. The remains of the prehistoric Palace occupy a scenic hilltop setting north of Pylos. Though most of the palace is long gone, the foundation remains surprisingly intact and the entire site is covered by a large shed-like structure to prevent further damage from the elements. We know about old king Nestor thanks to Homer who wrote of him in the Iliad and the Odyssey. The palace at Pylos belonged to Nestor and was discovered in 1939 by the American archaeologist Carl Blegen.
Highlights include the well-preserved royal apartments and a bathtub that archaeologists have speculated belonged to the old king himself.
Following our visit to the remains of the palace, we will make the short trip to the town of Hora where the archaeological museum (optional visit) holds thousands of artifacts recovered from the site. Among the 3,000 year-old treasures are beautifully carved statues, pottery, and weapons.
A full day excursion starting in Katakolon and ending in Patras, where we re-board the ship.
Duration approx. 8 hours
We will disembark the ship early morning in the port town of Katakolo and travel by bus to Olympia, one of the most famous and important sites in the ancient world.
Olympia is revered as the birthplace of the Olympic Games. In the ancient Greek world, it was also the greatest Pan-Hellenic sanctuary for the worship of Zeus. Although the first recorded Olympics took place in 776 B.C., evidence indicates that some type of games or athletic contests were held as early as Mycenean times (11th-12th centuries B.C.). Remarkably, from 776 on, the games were held uninterrupted for the next 1,000 years. From 1875 onward excavation work, spearheaded primarily by the German government, revealed the fantastic treasures from antiquity that sit today in the marvelous archaeological museum. The most thrilling site at Olympia is the stadium, which looks much like it did more than 2,000 years ago.
You will also explore the Temple of Hera, the magnificent temple of Zeus the Philippeion – circular memorial of Ionic columns honoring the family of Alexander the Great and the Leonidion
– lodging place for the athletes who participated in the games.
We later visit the Olympia Museum, one of the most beautiful museums in the world. It is filled with treasures unearthed from the mud that covered Olympia after a flood in about 400 AD. Among the many astonishing exhibits are the bronze helmet of Miltiades, worn by the Greek general at Marathon in his victory over the Persians at Marathon in 490 B.C.; and the statuary from the east and west pediments of the temple of Zeus.
Following a traditional lunch in the town of Olympia, we’ll visit the museum of the History of the Olympic Games of Antiquity. Unlike the main archaeological museum, this building houses statuary and a host of artifacts specifically related to the ancient Olympic games. (The History Museum visit is optional provided it is open in the afternoon)
Duration approx. 3,5 hours
Itea is best knwn as the gateway to Delphi, one of the most revered sites from the ancient world. We will disembark the ship early this morning and proceed to the ruins complex.
Unlike other archaeological sites in Greece, Delphi is built on the side of a mountain. First time visitors are awed as much for the stunning natural beauty that surround the ruins as for the ancient buildings themselves. Behind the site, the bare limestone cliffs of the Phaidriades thrust several thousand feet up, towering over the archaeological site and museum, while to the south
runs a deep and fertile river valley. The panoramic views from the road are truly inspiring.
In its prime, Delphi was revered for its wealth and reputation, attributes which grew from the site’s location as hosting the most important oracle in the classical world. Indeed, because everything in Greece is connected to mythology, Delphi became the premier site for the worship of the god Apollo. The oracle had the ability to prophecy the future and give advice. Visitors from across the Greek world traveled here to consult with the oracle, and responded by offering thanks to Apollo in the form of treasure.
We will have a half day to walk around the ruins complex and visit the adjoining museum. Some of the highlights include the Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia, the Castalian Spring, the Gymnasium, the Temple of Apollo, the Treasuries (built by various Greek city-states to commemorate victories), and the stadium.
The 48 meter “Galileo” is a classic steel Motor Sailer, with spacious and well appointed interiors renovated in 2016. At the main deck, a lounge area with an American bar leads into a warm and elegant dining room finished with wood and leather.
Guests on the Galileo enjoy the most a shaded outdoor deck area with an outdoor bar and the ship’s sun deck. The M/S Galileo, built with the most stringent safety regulations, was launched in 1992 and rebuilt in 2007
Home at Sea
Comfort Zone
Lower Deck
1 Double or 2 Lower Beds
9.5-11 sq.m. / 102.6-119 sq.ft.
Lower Deck
Flexible Bedding Configuration
11-14 sq.m. / 119-151 sq.ft.
The Category B cabins are located on the Lower Deck and have portholes. The cabins are air-conditioned and fitted with flat-screen TV, mini fridge, central music, internal telephone, safe deposit boxes, hair dryer & en suite bathroom with shower.
Upper Deck
1 Double or 2 Lower Beds
12-13 sq.m. / 130-140.4 sq.ft.
The Category A cabins are located on the Upper Deck and have large Portholes. The cabins are air-conditioned and fitted with flat-screen TV, mini fridge, central music, internal telephone, safe deposit boxes, hair dryer & en suite bathroom with shower.
Stay in the Heart of Athens
Newly refurbished as a 5-star ‘Art Hotel’ and having reopened in August 2020, the
Royal Olympic remains one of the most exciting places to stay in Athens.
Extravagance and Elegance
The Royal Olympic is the perfect place for those who appreciate a touch of extravagance in their holiday accommodation.
The public areas are sumptuously appointed, and the rooms exude elegance, making you feel pampered and cosseted throughout your stay.
Breathtaking Views
One of the highlights is the roof terrace, offering stunning views of the
Parthenon just 300 meters away.
Even Pericles, who rebuilt the Acropolis during the Golden Age of Greece, wouldn’t have had views like this while dining or enjoying his breakfast.
Swimming Pool and Relaxation
The hotel also features a lovely swimming pool, perfect for cooling off after a day of sightseeing in Athens.
Perfect Location
The central location of the hotel makes it an ideal base for exploring Athens’ antiquities by day and enjoying the vibrant cafes and restaurant scene by night.
Roof-Terrace Dining
Don’t miss out on a dinner on the roof terrace, where you can enjoy the illuminated city and the spectacular views—it’s an experience you won’t forget!
Facilities
Room Options
Executive Room (Included in your Holiday)
The following room types are available with a supplement:
| Departure Dates | Category C | Special Offers | Category B | Special Offers | Category A | Special Offers |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19/03/2025 | £2,316 | £2,823 | £3,275 | |||
| 26/03/2025 | £2,441 | £2,823 | £3,275 | |||
| 02/04/2025 | £2,919 | £3,371 | £3,719 | |||
| 09/04/2025 | £2,919 | £3,371 | £3,719 | |||
| 16/04/2025 | £2,919 | £3,371 | £3,719 | |||
| 22/10/2025 | £3,302 | £3,867 | £4,302 | |||
| 29/10/2025 | £2,728 | £3,206 | £3,771 | |||
| 05/11/2025 | £2,728 | £3,206 | £3,771 | |||
| 12/11/2025 | £2,728 | £3,206 | £3,771 |
| Single occupancy | 50% supplement |
|---|---|
| 3rd Person Price | -30% in Category A |
| Departure Dates | Category C | Special Offers | Category B | Special Offers | Category A | Special Offers |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21/03/2025 | £1,671 | £2,053 | £2,505 | |||
| 28/03/2025 | £1,671 | £2,053 | £2,505 | |||
| 04/04/2025 | £2,053 | £2,505 | £2,853 | |||
| 11/04/2025 | £2,053 | £2,505 | £2,853 | |||
| 18/04/2025 | £2,053 | £2,505 | £2,853 | |||
| 24/10/2025 | £2,436 | £3,001 | £3,436 | |||
| 31/10/2025 | £1,958 | £2,436 | £3,001 | |||
| 07/11/2025 | £1,958 | £2,436 | £3,001 | |||
| 14/11/2025 | £1,958 | £2,436 | £3,001 |
| Single occupancy | 50% supplement |
|---|---|
| 3rd Person Price | -30% in Category A |
| Port Charges | £296 |
| Departure Dates | Category C | Special Offers | Category B | Special Offers | Category A | Special Offers |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18/03/2026 | £2,610 | £3,187 | £3,735 | |||
| 25/03/2026 | £2,756 | £3,187 | £3,735 | |||
| 01/04/2026 | £3,283 | £3,792 | £4,183 | |||
| 08/04/2026 | £3,283 | £3,792 | £4,183 | |||
| 15/04/2026 | £3,283 | £3,792 | £4,183 | |||
| 21/10/2026 | £3,283 | £3,792 | £4,183 | |||
| 28/10/2026 | £2,756 | £3,187 | £3,735 | |||
| 04/11/2026 | £2,756 | £3,187 | £3,735 | |||
| 11/11/2026 | £2,756 | £3,187 | £3,735 |
| Single occupancy | 50% supplement |
|---|---|
| 3rd Person Price | -30% in Category A |
| Departure Dates | Category C | Special Offers | Category B | Special Offers | Category A | Special Offers |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20/03/2026 | £1,907 | £2,338 | £2,886 | |||
| 27/03/2026 | £1,907 | £2,338 | £2,886 | |||
| 03/04/2026 | £2,338 | £2,847 | £3,238 | |||
| 10/04/2026 | £2,338 | £2,847 | £3,238 | |||
| 17/04/2026 | £2,338 | £2,847 | £3,238 | |||
| 23/10/2026 | £2,338 | £2,847 | £3,238 | |||
| 30/10/2026 | £1,907 | £2,338 | £2,886 | |||
| 06/11/2026 | £1,907 | £2,338 | £2,886 | |||
| 13/11/2026 | £1,907 | £2,338 | £2,886 |
| Single occupancy | 50% supplement |
|---|---|
| 3rd Person Price | -30% in Category A |
| Port Charges | £300 |
Flights from London Heathrow, London Gatwick, London Luton, London Stansted, Manchester or Bristol
All local transfers
2 nights at Royal Olympic hotel on a bed and breakfast basis
Accommodation on board M/S Galileo for 7 nights in your chosen grade of cabin with private SH/WC & air conditioning, mini fridge and flat screen TV with complimentary movies.
Full-board: Buffet breakfast and two meals daily, including a Welcome Cocktail, a local themed party evening , fun BBQ on the beach or on deck (weather permitting) and Captain’s Dinner.
Shore excursions
Regular (filter) coffee, tea and drinking water free all day, plus abundant fresh fruit.
Use of fishing and snorkelling equipment, sea kayak and stand up paddle boards (subject to availability).
Expert guest lecturer on board
Professional English speaking Cruise Director.
Port charges
London Heathrow
London Gatwick
London Luton
Bristol
Manchester
All local transfers are included in your package.
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Your flight inclusive holiday with us is financially secure as we are ATOL licensed and the full package is ATOL protected. We have been trading since 1995 so you can book with total confidence. |
