Your journey begins in Athens, full of rich ancient history which sets the tone for your cultural voyage. Admire the majestic Acropolis looking out over the city before boarding the glorious Star Clipper, a four-masted ship carrying just 166 guests and your home for the week.
Celebrated author Victoria Hislop, who has written a number of novels set in Greece and its islands, will join you for part of your journey. Victoria has a huge passion for the country, will hold a drinks reception and give a talk about her career; she'll also sign copies of her latest book, The Figurine, which explores the questionable acquisition of cultural treasures - specifically the Cycladic figurine which is highly coveted and dates back to the Bronze Age.
You will depart Athens for some of the most fascinating locations on the Aegean Coast, beginning with Kusadasi in Turkey. Take some time here to relax and take a dip in the sparkling waters of the bay of Camlimani.
You'll continue onwards to the Cyclades islands, whose rich history has been shaped by their many conquerors, including the Minoans, Persians, Byzanites and Romans. Patmos is your first stop, and here you can see priceless icons and manuscripts in the Monastery of the Apocalypse, located where Saint John the Divine is said to have lived and experienced apocalyptic revelations.
Next, Star Clipped will dock in Amorgos. Here you'll find the fascinating cliff-clinging monastery of Hozoviotissas on an excursion where you will be joined by Victoria Hislop. Other stops are Mykonos, where you can recline on an inviting beach or relax in a seafront tavern, and Spetses, with its majestic grand mansions and charming churches.
Victoria Hislop is a best-selling author whose gripping historical novel The Island has inspired thousands of readers to visit the deserted Greek island of Spinalonga just off the coast of Crete and has sold over six million copies worldwide.
On arrival you'll be met and transferred to your hotel. After checking in, the rest of the day is free to explore the wonderful city of Athens at your own pace. You'll be staying at a four star hotel in Athens, well situated for exploring many of the Greek capital's major attractions.
Today you'll have another day to spend in Athens. Your hotel is just 0.2km from the Acropolis, the ancient citadel which towers over Byzantine churches and pop-up warehouse bars. You'll discover the city's captivating blend of history and modernity as you wander its streets. After seeing the Acropolis you can stroll through charming narrow streets and have a drink in a traditional taverna. This afternoon you'll board Star Clipper.
Today your voyage along the Aegean Coast begins. During your time on board, you can choose to relax on a sun lounger or cool off in one of the pools on the top deck, while more adventurous passengers may enjoy the opportunity to climb the rigging or even have a go at steering the ship.
Alternatively, you can wander the interior areas of the ship and discover relaxing lounges and a peaceful library.
After a day at sea, you'll dock today in Kusadasi, Turkey. Kusadasi is a popular Turkish port of call for cruise ships, as not only is it a bustling resort town full of shops, bars and restaurants, but it is also the main access point for the famous archaeological site at Ephesus.
You have the option to take a tour at Ephesus (not included), where extensive excavations have revealed an ancient city through which visitors can now wander and observe the wonders of a bygone civilisation.
Near Kusadasi, on Turkey's turquoise coast, Star Clipper will make a stop at Camlimani, a small, secluded bay. Here you can swim at the beach, snorkel, or simply stroll the pine scented grounds.
Today you'll dock in Patmos. This serene island is known as the site of the apocalyptic revelations of St. John the Divine, the cave where he is said to have lived is now the site of the Monastery of the Apocalypse. It houses priceless icons and manuscripts in its treasury.
Victoria Hislop joins you today on a guided visit to the spectacular Hozoviotissa monastery. Amorgós' cliff-clinging monastery of Hozoviotissa is the second oldest monastery in Greece, dating back to 1017.
It was commissioned by the Byzantine Emperor Alexius Comnenus to house a 9th century icon of the Virgin Mary, patron saint of the island, which arrived mysteriously on the seashore aboard an unmanned boat coming from the Holy Land. The monastery hangs off the cliff face 300 metres above sea level, directly above the point where the icon came ashore.
You'll then head to Chora, the mediaeval capital of Amorgos, situated on top of a hill some 400m above sea level and is dominated by a 13th Century Venetian castle, the Kastro.
Chora is the archetypal picture-perfect Greek village, with windmills, early Christian and Byzantine churches, dazzling white houses and winding stone paths. You'll get to try some Greek delicacies here, including Raki with honey and spices and loukoumades (local sweets).
Your stop today is one of the most cosmopolitan of all the Greek Islands, Mykonos, where you'll see its pretty contrast of rocky hills and beautiful beaches. Hora, the capital, spreads around a colourful harbour, a popular meeting place, overlooked by a variety of tavernas, in which fishing boats nestle side by side with luxury yachts.
Take time to have a drink in one of the many stylish bars lining the harbour, or relax on one of the sandy beaches and take a dip in the fresh water.
Today's port of call is Spetses, an island boasting a long naval tradition, with grand mansions lining narrow cobbled streets.
Due to its rich history there are many attractions worthy of a visit including museums, churches and cathedrals. There are also many beautiful beaches within easy reach where you can soak up the sun or take part in the water sports on offer.
Today you'll arrive back in Piraeus, near Athens as your cruise comes to an end. You'll be transferred to the airport to catch your flight home.
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* From price is per person, based on two people sharing a cat 6 cabin, subject to availability. Price and itinerary correct at time of print but may be subject to change. Single supplement on request. Deposit 30% plus air fare. Local charges such as tourist tax may apply. Not suitable for those with mobility issues. In the case of unforeseen circumstances, expert(s) may be substituted, and any expert-led events may be subject to change. Expert(s) will not join you for your full trip duration unless otherwise stated. Events are exclusive to passengers onboard Star Clipper. Travel insurance is not included and should be taken out at time of booking. This holiday may be sold through other selected brands. Images used may not reflect your actual tour experience. Tour is operated by and subject to the booking conditions of TS Travel Ltd (ATOL bonded).