Athens Round-trip Cruise | EXPLORA Journeys

Itinerary Highlights

Take a round-trip sailing from Athens and explore Greece and Turkey on a nine-day cruise
Delve into ancient history with a complimentary tour of Athens and the Acropolis included
Unwind aboard EXPLORA II with nine dining experiences, a world-class spa and elegant outdoor spaces
Enjoy extended time in Istanbul with two full days to explore the European and Asian sides of the city

Facilities

Gym
Restaurant
Spa
Swimming Pool

8 nights from £4,899 per person
3 - 11 May 2026

Nicola

Travel Specialist

01244 435 293

These voyages are a small taste of what we offer. Contact our Cruise Specialists for bespoke suggestions and post-cruise options

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Sail through the Aegean and beyond on board EXPLORA II, a luxurious yacht-style ship designed to elevate the cruising experience. Over nine days, you’ll uncover the myths, flavours and cultural treasures of both Greece and Turkey, with plenty of time to soak in everything, from ancient ruins and traditional cuisine, to thriving bazaars and bustling bar scenes.

Starting and ending in Athens, you'll enjoy a complimentary tour of the city and the Acropolis before heading to your next stops: the peaceful island of Patmos, vibrant Istanbul, cultural Kusadasi and buzzing Mykonos.

When you're not out exploring, your time on board with Explora Journeys can be tailored to your liking with wellness programmes focused on sleep and nutrition. Meanwhile, the on-board spa's sauna, salt cave, and ice fall provide the perfect setting to rejuvenate.

Whether you’re strolling through ancient ruins of Kusadasi, tucking into plates stacked high with halloumi in Mykonos or unwinding in a rooftop bar overlooking the Bosphorus, every moment of this journey is designed to immerse you in the spirit of the region.

Gallery

Itinerary

Day 1 | 03 May 2026 | Arrive in Athens

Fly from the UK to Athens and relax with an overnight hotel stay. Perhaps head out in the evening for a taste of the city's nightlife before getting a restful night's sleep.

Day 2 | 04 May 2026 | Embark EXPLORA II

Transfer from the port to board your home at sea - the effortlessly elegant EXPLORA II. As evening falls, take in harbour views with a chilled local beer and soak up the city’s magical atmosphere before departing to your next port of call.

Day 3 | 05 May 2026 | Patmos, Greece

Patmos

Today you'll sail to peaceful Patmos, a lesser-known Greek island with a legacy of ancient myths and legends. Wander the quiet hilltop villages, visit the cave where St John is said to have written the Book of Revelations, or simply enjoy the gentle pace of this serene island, framed by sunlit coves and whitewashed houses.

Day 4 | 06 May 2026 | Day at Sea

Enjoy a full day on board EXPLORA II. Stop by the Ocean Wellness spa for a relaxing massage, or embark on a more extensive wellness journey, integrating yoga, bath rituals and enhanced nutrition. You'll also have your pick of nine dining venues, each offering a unique culinary journey, plus 12 bars and lounges to kick back in.

Day 5 | 07 May 2026 | Istanbul, Turkey

Arrive in Istanbul and explore the city's layered history. Visit iconic sites including the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and the Grand Bazaar, or add to your wellness journey with a traditional Turkish bath. Foodies can dig into street food, from decadent meze platters to succulent kebabs, while night owls will be in their element at the buzzing rooftop bars and vibrant bazaars as they come alive with music and dancing.

Day 6 | 08 May 2026 | Istanbul, Turkey

Spend a second day exploring the many treasures of Istanbul. Delve into the spice markets or expand your horizons even further with a serene ferry ride over to the Asian suburbs. Whether you’re sampling baklava, shopping for gold or enjoying live folk music, the city’s kaleidoscope of traditions and modern life will captivate you.

Day 7 | 09 May 2026 | Kusadasi, Turkey

Kuşadası

Step ashore in Kusadasi, a beach resort town on the Aegean Coast that's packed with ancient wonders. Walking in the steps of Cleopatra, you can visit the impressive ruins of Ephesus, dedicated to the goddess Artemis, or take a day trip to meditate in Pamukkale’s sacred thermal springs. Alternatively, head to one of the nearby traditional villages to watch as Turkish carpets are woven and savour homemade filo pies.

Day 8 | 10 May 2026 | Mykonos, Greece

Wake early to see the quieter side of Mykonos. Explore the town's maze-like streets of whitewashed sugar-cube buildings and lounge on iconic beaches. Or, take a boat trip out to visit the island of Delos and explore its ruins of former temples and shrines. In the evening, enjoy a cocktail as the sun sets over the iconic windmills, and savour fresh seafood in Chora before joining the island’s legendary nightlife scene.