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Includes airfare, fuel surcharges, transfers, accommodations in outside cabins, many meals, discounted sightseeing and more!

Classical Greece by Sea

This is no ordinary cruise to the Greek Isles. Rather, this is an opportunity to really tour some of the greatest of classical treasures found in Greece. You'll visit Athens, Corinth, Olympia and Delphi, among other places, without wasting a moment driving the long stretches of highway between cities. Instead, you'll spend your days exploring each magical site and your nights, while you sleep, sailing to your next stop. By motor coach, you would have to spend at least 10 days or more to cover this much territory. But thanks to a novel approach to touring, created by easyCruise (from Stelios, founder of Europe's incredibly successful low cost airline, easyJet), you'll only need a week.

Don't expect midnight buffets, casinos, or cabaret shows aboard easyCruiseOne—but do prepare for an incredible itinerary at a fraction of the price you would pay under any other travel arrangements. And don't wait to jump on this deal. Space is very limited and on a first come, first served basis. And at these impossibly low prices, this amazing journey will sell out fast.

Cruise Itinerary at a Glance

CLASSICAL GREECE BY SEA
Day	Port of Call	Arrive	Depart
Sunday	Piraeus & Athens: Enjoy Athens by night	Embark from 2 pm	5am (Monday)
Monday Excursion*	Ancient Corinth and Nemea or Mycenae	9am	11pm
Tuesday	Ithaki island home of Odysseus	Noon	4am
Wednesday Excursion*	Patras & Olympia	9am	4am
Thursday Excursion*	Itea & Delphi	9am	4am
Friday Excursion*	Aegina Temple of Aphaea	Noon	4am
Saturday Excursion*	Piraeus & Athens: Acropolis & Temple of Poseidon at Sounion	7am	Remain in port overnight
Sunday	Piraeus & Athens	Disembark by 7am

Guided shore excursions included in special touring package.

Detailed Tour Itinerary

Day 1, Saturday: Depart USA. Your exciting journey to Athens, Greece, begins this evening as you check in for your OLYMPIC AIRWAYS overnight jet flight.

Day 2, Sunday: Piraeus (Athens). Upon arrival, you'll be met by our representative and transferred to Marina Zea in Piraeus, the city next to Athens. Check into your cabin, drop your luggage, and head out for a first look at the fascinating city of Athens. You are on your own this first day to do whatever inspires you. Why not take a stroll along the Plaka, with its winding streets and brightly painted houses.

Or take a seat at one of the many cafes and sip an ouzo, snack on "meze" and watch the sun set in the city that gave birth to Western Civilization. As the sun sets over one of the most famous sights in the world, the Acropolis, watch as it is lit in a spectacular light display before heading back to Piraeus to board your ship for the night.

easyCruise offers an on board lecturer to help you explore the sites of ancient Greece as the cruise unfolds. Every day over breakfast, the lecturer will give you a brief outline of what can be seen before the Greek site guides take you on detailed tours of the places themselves. After spending time exploring the various sites, the lecturer will be on hand once again to help put what you have seen at the sites into context and answer your questions. In the evenings the lecturer will offer different relaxed talks in the bar on subjects as diverse as running the Marathon; sex and society in ancient Greece; the nature of Athenian democracy and modern democracy; the challenges of archaeology in Greece today; the Persians wars; the battle of Thermopylae and the creation of modern Greece. You'll also find plentiful books and novels on board to browse and buy for more information and interest.

Day 3, Monday: Corinth. easyCruiseOne negotiates its way through the Corinth Canal, cut through solid rock 23 metres wide, 87 m deep and over 6 kilometres in length, linking the Ionian and Aegean seas. The canal is a magnificent feat of human engineering, begun by the Emperor Nero in 67 AD, but not completed until 1893. Transit the canal during daylight hours on Monday morning before arriving in Corinth and again on Friday morning on your return to Athens.

Upon arrival in Corinth, disembark and explore ancient Corinth, Nemea and Mycenae on a guided tour that includes a visit to one of the finest wine producing areas of Greece, or explore on your own. The ancient city of Corinth was once the rival of Athens for supremacy in mainland Greece, before finally displacing Athens as the capital during Roman times. During this period, St Paul lived and preached here for almost two years. Visit the magnificent ancient remains of the city, including one of the oldest standing temples in Greece and see how the Romans rebuilt Greek cities to suit their own style.

Mythology has it that in the nearby sanctuary of Nemea, Heracles, the greatest of all Greek heroes, battled with a lion sent by the goddess Hera. This lion would have destroyed the sanctuary and its settlement had Heracles not defeated it, transforming it into the constellation we now know as Leo. The sanctuary became one of the four great pan Hellenic sanctuaries of ancient Greece, with its own athletic games to rival the ones at Olympia. Imagine the huge animal sacrifices carried out here as you stand looking at its 41m long altar. Visit the museum to learn about the sanctuary, located between Corinth and Argos, the two great rival powers that fought constantly over it.

Nemea is also one of the finest wine producing regions of Greece—particularly of red wine. Here the Agiorghitiko grape is used and produces wines famous for their deep red color, complex aroma and long, velvety palate, and you'll enjoy an opportunity to taste while you tour.

A highlight of today's excursion is a visit to the ancient fortress citadel palace of Mycenae, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This site dates to between 1600 and 1100 BC and was the center of a powerful succession of rulers so famous that, today we refer to the Greek civilization at that time as Mycenaean civilization.

Day 4, Tuesday: Ithaci. Just where was Odysseus' home? This is the centre of a new debate currently raging between geographers, geologists and classicists. easyCruiseOne takes you to the very heart of the debate: the island of Ithaki. Take stock in its main town of Vathy and judge for yourself where you think Odysseus may have lived. Enjoy the idyllic scenery of sea, cypress trees and rocky mountains. Relax on the beautiful nearby beaches at Sarakiniki and Filiatro or take an excursion to the mystical Cave of the Nymphs, possibly a setting for a scene in Homer's epic poem The Odyssey.

Day 5, Wednesday: Patras, Olympia. The ship will be docking in the port of Patras, one of the major ports of Greece. Patras is the third largest city in Greece, with a rich historical heritage. The reconstructed Roman Odeon and the replica of the Original Patras lighthouse are some of the interesting attractions of the city. From here journey to Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games.

The Olympic Games, it is said, first began in 776 BC and their foundation marks the beginning of recorded history. Every four years envoys would be sent out from the sanctuary to announce the Olympic Games to the whole Greek world. All wars were stopped during the time of the games and everyone was allowed to travel in safety to participate and to watch. This place witnessed one of the largest gatherings of Greeks known to the ancient world and was also popular with the Roman emperors who liked to show off their prowess.

Visit the stadium where the foot and chariot races were held. View the massive investment and preparation that went into hosting an event open to all the corners of the ancient world—the inns, gymnasiums and training grounds. Tour the sanctuary of Zeus to see some of the most imposing remains in Greece: the heavy dark stone columns of the Temple of Zeus raised high off the ground; the stoas and treasuries lining the sides of the sanctuary and the museum with its incredibly well preserved ancient sculpture, armour and athletic finds. The sanctuary was a notice board, a talking shop, a place of intense competition and prestige and over it all presided one of the seven wonders of the ancient world: the gold and ivory statue of a seated Zeus, placed inside his temple, made by the great sculptor Pheidias. The statue was said to be so tall that if Zeus ever decided to stand up, he would take the roof of his temple up with him into the sky.

Day 6, Thursday: Itea, Delphi. Today, stop at the modern port of Itea, near the ancient port where visitors to the oracle of Delphi used to arrive and make their way up the mountainside to the sanctuary. Near Itea is the seaside town of Galaxidi, with relaxed bars, restaurants and beaches. But not to be missed is the journey through one of the largest olive groves in Europe up into the Parnassos mountains to the sanctuary of Delphi.

The sanctuary is in one of the most mountainous areas of Greece, and in ancient times, cut off in winter by the snow and at the end of a long and arduous journey at all other times. Yet despite its remote location, it was known as the centre of the ancient world. Myths tell us that Zeus let go of two eagles at opposite ends of the world and they met over Delphi. It was a sanctuary dedicated to the god Apollo and contained his most famous oracle: the Pythian Priestess who would, when consulted, go into a frenzy inspired by the God and give his pronouncements on the future. It was said that mystical vapours appeared from a chasm underneath the ground of the temple—a chasm which has been found today and tested by geologists. There is fierce debate about its use.

But the power of the oracle in the ancient world was never in doubt as the richest and most powerful rulers of the ancient world came often to Delphi to seek the advice and wisdom of the oracle. Delphi has earned the ranking of UNESCO World Heritage Site for its beauty, grandeur and importance to the ancient world.

Day 7, Friday: Aegina. Today you'll visit Aegina, one of the most beautiful islands lying close to the port of Athens. Aegina has long harbor walkways, idyllic fish restaurants, cafes and splendid scenery. At one of the island's highest points is the sanctuary of Athena Aphaea containing one of the best preserved temples in ancient Greece. The sanctuary's temple sculpture is also very well preserved and the vibrant colors on the sculptured pieces still survive: contrary to traditional belief temple sculpture was not white marble in the Greek world but incredibly bright blues, reds, yellows and greens.

Day 8, Saturday: Piraeus, Athens. There's plenty of time on Saturday to explore the city—most of the ancient sites are within easy reach, and when you've had your fill of culture, there are always the local tavernas, cafes, bars and clubs!

In the afternoon there will be an opportunity to join a tour to Sounion. You will have seen Sounion from Aegina: the southernmost tip of Attica and a beacon for all ships heading to the ancient Athenian harbour at Piraeus. As such, it was an important political marker for the Athenians, at which they established a sanctuary to the sea god Poseidon. In the 5th century, as part of a major elaboration of Athenian monuments—a building campaign that included the Parthenon on the Acropolis—a new temple to Poseidon was built in the sanctuary. It has been a favorite visiting point for tourists throughout the ages and many have etched their names onto the temple columns including Lord Byron. Enjoy a coffee overlooking the bay, take in the sanctuary to Poseidon and the nearby sanctuary to Athena, the ancient ship docking yards and then settle back for one of the most magical sunsets in Greece. Return to the ship to spend your last night aboard.

Day 9, Sunday: Athens/USA. Today you'll be escorted to the airport and bid farewell to Athens as you board your return flight. Your journey comes to an end as you arrive in the USA later today. Or, take advantage of an optional Istanbul Extension.

Extra Nights in Athens

Want even more time to explore Athens? No problem. If you wish to reserve extra nights in Athens—after either the 9-day trip or the Istanbul Extension (below)—please call us at 1-800-555-5765. You will not be able to book extra nights online at this time, but we'll gladly help you by phone.

Optional Extension to Istanbul

Why not take advantage of a wonderful opportunity to visit more in the region by exploring Istanbul, Turkey, a fascinating and important city located about an hour's flight from Athens.

Day 9: Athens/Istanbul. Disembark very early this morning and transfer to the airport to board your flight to Istanbul. Upon arrival a short while later, you will be met by our representatives and assisted through customs formalities. Then, meet your guide, board your touring coach and head off for a tour of the beautiful and fascinating city of Istanbul.

Visit the Agia Sophia, once the largest church in the Christian world and one of the greatest surviving examples of Byzantine architecture, rich with mosaics and marble pillars and coverings. Continue to the Hippodrome, a massive stadium built by the Roman Emperor Septimius Severus in 203 A.D. to serve as a meeting place for the politicians, for chariot races, wrestling, boxing, and other athletic activities.

Your morning tour concludes with a visit to the famous and fascinating Grand Bazaar, one of the largest covered markets in the world with more than 58 streets and 4,000 shops. It's a "must see" where carpets, gold, leather goods and other fantastic treasures are yours for the bargaining. The rest of the day is at leisure to explore Istanbul, either on your own or on optional tours. Your hotel is conveniently located near Taxim Square, where you can find plenty of shopping, restaurants and easy access to sites of interest. The Point Hotel (B)

Day 10: Istanbul. The whole day is yours to explore Istanbul further. Whether you choose to join one of the optional tours offered for your pleasure, or you prefer to walk the streets, browse the markets and tour on your own, you will not be at a loss for plenty of things to see and do. (B)

Day 11: Istanbul/Evening flight to Athens. Enjoy one final in Istanbul to explore independently or on optional tours. This evening, you'll transfer to the airport for your short flight to Athens. On arrival, take the hotel shuttle bus to the airport, located very close to the airport. Holiday Inn Athens - Attica Avenue (B)

Please note: Passengers who book the March 29 departure on January 10, 2008 or after will spend this night in Istanbul and depart Istanbul for the US the following morning (Day 12). Space on this depature is very limited and is subject to availability at the time of booking.

Day 12: Athens/USA. Board the shuttle bus this morning and return to the airport. Bid farewell to Athens as you board your return flight. Your journey comes to an end as you arrive in the USA later today. (B)

Optional Tours in Istanbul

Here are just some of the optional tours you'll be offered in Istanbul. Prices for Istanbul Optional Tours are quoted in U.S. dollars.

Half-day Ottoman Wonders
Visit the magnificent Topkapi Palace, official residence of the Ottoman Sultans and the Suleymaniye Mosque, dedicated to the Sultan Suleyman the Magnificent and built by the fabled architect, Sinan. ($41)

Bosphorus Cruise
Board your boat for a half day cruise on the Bosphorus, which runs between the Sea of Marmara and the Black Sea, both former lakes during previous geological eras. The Bosphorus is 22 miles long and considered one of the most important waterways in the world. View the architectural masterpieces lining the shores of the channel, built during various historical periods, and experience the thrill of sailing between two continents, close enough to both shores for even the most avid photographer to catch close-up shots of the wonderful sites along the way. ($36)

Istanbul by Night, including Dinner
Enjoy an evening of Turkish cuisine and entertainment at one of Istanbul's top restaurants. Transfers, a delicious a la carte dinner and show are included. ($54)

About your ship, easyCruise One

Click here for information about your ship.

Destination FAQs

For quick answers to Frequently Asked Questions about travel to Greece, click here.

ASIA
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Classical Greece by Sea
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Region:	-- all regions -- Africa Asia Australia & South Pacific Europe Middle East South America
Country:	-- all countries --
Duration:	-- any length -- Up to 8 days 9 - 12 days 13 - 16 days 17 days or more
Budget:	-- any budget -- Up to $1000 Up to $2000 Up to $3000 Up to $4000
Month:	-- anytime -- January February March April May June July August September October November December

Classical Greece by Sea
Included Features

• Round trip flights from New York via Olympic Airlines wide-bodied jet service (flight schedule) (Passengers who book the March 29 departure on January 10 or after will fly via Lufthansa.)

• Arrival and departure transfer with meeting and assistance

• 7 nights aboard the easyCruise One, in standard outside cabins

• Inexpensive cabin upgrades

• Breakfast and dinner daily aboard ship

• Special discounted optional touring program for 5 days, including lunches

• Extra nights in Athens

• Special Istanbul Extension

Classical Greece by Sea Departures & Prices* Depart Return Book by Feb 1 After Feb 1 2008 DEPARTURES Feb 23 Mar 2 $899 $1199 Mar 1 Mar 9 $999 $1299 Mar 8 Mar 16 $999 $1299 Mar 15 Mar 23 $1099 $1399 Mar 22 Mar 30 $1099 $1399 Mar 29 Apr 6 $1359 $1659

Tour prices are per person, double occupancy, including airfare. Prices in red reflect an early booking discount if you reserve by Feb. 1, 2008. * Prices do not include Additional Taxes, Fees & September 11th Security Fee for this tour of $135.

Taxes & Fees * Service Price Additional Taxes, Fees & September 11th Security Fee $135

Optionals & Supplements Service Price Comprehensive Travel Insurance (Recommended) $129 Discounted Optional Tours Package* $175 Discounted Optional Tours Package, March 29 Departure* $200 Cabin Upgrades** Superior Double $120 Superior, SNGL $240 Suite $250 Suite, SNGL $500 Single Supplements All March Departures $125 February 23 Departure $100

* Includes 5 optional tours plus lunch ** All cabin upgrades are based on availability and require an additional $250 per person non-refundable deposit ($500 for singles).

Istanbul Extension Service Price Istanbul Extension $599 Single Room Supplement $199

Important Note: Due to the unique nature of this program, all payments are non-refundable once made. We strongly recommend travel insurance to cover losses should you have to cancel or interrupt your cruise for any covered reason. Whether you take advantage of our own wholesale policy for $129, or you purchase other coverage, we urge you to protect your vacation investment.

Shop & Compare

Our tours may look similar to others you've seen, but we invite you to shop & compare. There are important differences that make Friendly Planet tours the best you can find.

No Compromise on Quality: Despite our extraordinary prices, there are no compromises on our Classical Greece cruise/tours.

Included Features:  Enjoy included outside cabin accommodations on your cruise. Your transfers are all included, not expensive extras as in other tours. And breakfast and dinner daily are included as well in your low tour price.

Credit Cards or Cash: You asked, and we listened! Whether you pay by check, money order or your favorite major credit card, your tour price on this tour is the same. No extra cost to charge your dream vacation to Greece. Credit Card Authorization Form.

Personal Service: Most important of all, the extra ingredient that makes our tours stand apart from others—the wonderful, personal attention you'll receive from our friendly staff in the USA and our representatives in Greece —is completely free of charge. Compare our Greece programs to others, feature for feature. You'll see for yourself that ours are the very best value for money you'll find anywhere.

Flight Schedule: Click here for a full flight schedule.

About easyCruise: easyCruise offers an on board lecturer to help you explore the sites of ancient Greece as the cruise unfolds. Every day over breakfast, the lecturer will give you a brief outline of what can be seen before the Greek site guides take you on detailed tours of the places themselves. After spending time exploring the various sites, the lecturer will be on hand once again to help put what you have seen at the sites into context and answer your questions. In the evenings the lecturer will offer different relaxed talks in the bar on subjects as diverse as running the Marathon; sex and society in ancient Greece; the nature of Athenian democracy and modern democracy; the challenges of archaeology in Greece today; the Persians wars; the battle of Thermopylae and the creation of modern Greece. You'll also find plentiful books and novels on board to browse and buy for more information and interest.

Transfers: Transfers for this tour are provided on a group basis only. For land-only passengers or for passengers deviating in any way from the group program, transfers are not provided. Individual, private transfers can be arranged at a supplement in price. Taxis and other forms of transportation are also available and may cost less than private transfers. If you wish to arrange private transfers, please request this service at the time of reservation.

Waitlisting on Sold-Out Departures: If your preferred departure is sold out, you can place yourself on a waitlist by completing the online reservation form and submitting it to us. Just click on the "waitlist" button, complete the form and click "submit". In the comments box at the very bottom of the form, please write any notes regarding your request, especially any flexibility you might have in your dates of travel. This way, if your first choice doesn't clear, we can try for a second or third choice. We will make every effort to clear your space in a timely way so that you can join us on tour. You do not need to send any deposits for waitlists. When we clear your space, we'll contact you immediately by phone or email, and if you still wish to travel, we will arrange for deposits or payments at that time. We regret that we cannot accept waitlists beyond 35 days prior to departure. If you see "sold out" next to the dates you wish to reserve or waitlist, please note that this departure is now closed, including waitlist possibilities.

Flight Schedule: Click here for a full flight schedule.

Already Booked? Print and complete your Tour Registration Form (PDF).

800.555.5765 / Fax 215.572.9803

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* Some tour prices reflect an early booking discount on select dates. Prices do not include Additional Taxes, Fees & September 11th Security Fee.

Though we do our best to provide accurate and up-to-date information on our site about our tours, sometimes oversights and typographical errors can occur. Please confirm all tour prices and details with us via email or phone prior to booking. We will not be held responsible for misunderstandings arising from such errors.