celestyal crystal cruise from athens

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Celestyal Crystal

Former names: louis cristal, ms silja opera, ms albatross, sally, viking saga.

Cruise line Celestyal Cruises

• Piraeus-Athens (Greece)
• Kusadasi (Ephesus, Turkey)
• Thessaloniki (Greece)

Celestyal Crystal current position

Celestyal Crystal current location is at Aegean Sea (coordinates 37.70731 N / 24.06230 E) cruising en route to LAVRION. The AIS position was reported 3 minutes ago.

Current itinerary of Celestyal Crystal

Celestyal Crystal current cruise is 7 days, round-trip 7 Night Idyllic Aegean Cruise . Prices start from USD 889 (double occupancy rates). The itinerary starts on 11 May, 2024 and ends on 18 May, 2024 .

Specifications of Celestyal Crystal

•   Itineraries
•   Review
•   Wiki

Celestyal Crystal Itineraries

Celestyal crystal review, review of celestyal crystal.

The 1980-built Celestyal Crystal cruise ship (fka Louis Cristal) was initially named as "Viking Saga" ( ferry ship ) and owned by Rederi Ab Sally. MS Celestyal Crystal is a megayacht-designed luxurious passenger liner operated by the Greek travel brand Celestyal Cruises (2014-rebranded from Louis Cruises).

The vessel (IMO number 7827213) is currently Malta- flagged (MMSI 229001000) and registered in Valletta . Before 2020, it was Greece-flagged (MMSI 240695000) and registered in Piraeus .

History - construction and ownership

After a fire damaged the entire superstructure in 1990 (during drydock reconstruction), the burnt-out hull was used as the basis of the brand-new Sally Eurocruiser ferry boat. The diesel engines were kept from the original ship. The hull was lengthened by 13 m (43 ft), the passenger capacity increased by 452 berths. The rebuilding cost USD 140 mill. In 2014, Louis Cruises announced the launch of the authentic Greek travel brand "Celestyal Cruises".

In 2023, Celestyal Crystal was replaced with Celestyal Journey and left the fleet. Crystal's last voyage departed from Piraeus on August 26th. The 5-day itinerary visited Thessaloniki (Aug 27), Kusadasi-Ephesus (Aug 28), Milos Island (Aug 30) and Mykonos Island (Aug 31). The ship arrived for a laid-up in Port Lavrion on August 31st.

Starting on September 2nd, Celestyal Journey took over Crystal's schedule through December (2023).

Decks and Cabins

Celestyal Crystal staterooms (476 total) include 59 Suites (53 with step-out balconies), 313 oceanview staterooms (including the 6x Window Suites), 163 interior. The ship has no standard balcony cabins. There are also 6 wheelchair-accessible cabins. Because of the vessel's old design, staterooms as sizes and types vary greatly. The total number of cabin categories is 12.

All Celestyal Crystal cabins as complimentary amenities offer private bathrooms (WC-toilet, shower), smart HDTV, phone, radio/alarm clock, electronic safe box (in the closet), individual air conditioning. All cabin decks are interconnected via 4 lifts (passenger elevators).

Wheelchair-accessible cabins (for disabled passengers) are located on Deck 5. They feature wider doors, accessible bathroom (ramp), wooden floors. All Suies are with refrigerators (mini-bars). Suite balconies extend by 5 ft / 1,4 m from the ship's bulkhead. Veranda lengths vary between 9-19 ft (2,8-5,8 m).

The boat has 10 decks , of which 9 are passenger-accessible and 6 with cabins.

Shipboard dining options - Food and Drinks

Olympus Restaurant is the main dining room onboard Celestyal Crystal. It is complimentary, features Greek cuisine specialties, and also has a dinner a la carte menu. The MDR restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner Thalassa Bar serves the restaurant's outdoor seating area and also offers traditional Greek coffee. The L-shaped Amalthia Restaurant is a buffet-style restaurant open for breakfast and lunch, with waiter service for dinner (between 7:30-9:30 pm). The breakfast menu includes hot food choices, yogurt, cereals, and juices. There is a 4-course dinner menu with starters, soup/salad, main dishes, desserts. Other dining options include the Olympus Restaurant, Leda & Aura (casual dining).

Shipboard entertainment options - Fun and Sport

Passengers might also enjoy a huge array of facilities and diverse onboard activities, all with the relief of a modern and sophisticated cruise liner. The Muses Lounge is a 2-deck high theater/main show lounge with tiered seating and a dance floor. The grand-style entertainment program offers live music and dance shows, as well as a magician and acrobatic performances. The Casino (gaming bar lounge served by the Eros Bar) offers gaming tables and several slot machines. There is also a video arcade and a small library.

The conference room Symposium hosts lectures, seminars, corporate meetings and conferences at sea. Eros Lounge & Bar is the Wi-Fi spot and offers live band music performances and large-size TVs for live sporting events. Other Lounges & Bars include Horizons Bar, Thalassa Bar, and Helios Pool Bar. Celestyal Crystal also has a Wellness Center, Sana Beauty Center, sauna, gym, two swimming pools, Jacuzzi, medical center, Internet area, duty-free and travel value shop (Agora), photoshop.

Itineraries

MS Celestyal Crystal itinerary program was initially based on 3- to 8-day Greek Islands cruises in the Eastern Mediterranean (Aegean Sea) leaving from homeports in Turkey. During winter, the ship operated in the Caribbean Sea on Cuba cruises out of homeports Havana (Cuba) and Montego Bay (Jamaica) . The cruise embarked from Havana every Monday, and from Montego Bay - every Friday. Transatlantic crossings were offered on relocation voyage (RepositionCruises.com) between Europe and the Caribbean. The Caribbean cruise program was operated for 2 years (2016 - 2018).

Since 2018, the cruise liner's itinerary program is in the Eastern Mediterranean with roundtrips from homeport Piraeus-Athens. Next tables show the 7-day itineraries as call ports and port stay times (arrival/departure).

7-day "Idyllic Aegean" itinerary

7-day "Eclectic Aegean" itinerary

7-day "3 Continents" itinerary ( Holy Land cruise )

For the Christmas holidays (December 2019 - January 2020), the liner included in its "Holy Land" (Cyprus-Greece-Turkey-Israel) itinerary also two Egyptian ports - Port Alexandria and Port Said .

Due to the Coronavirus crisis, the Celestyal ship Crystal was paused for two years (March 2020 thru April 2022) restarting on April 18th from Lavrion . The 7-day itinerary "Iconic Aegean Cruise" visits Mykonos, Kusadasi, Patmos , Rhodes, Heraklion, Santorini.

Celestyal Crystal - user reviews and comments

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Other Celestyal Cruises cruise ships

• Celestyal Discovery
• Celestyal Journey

Celestyal Crystal Wiki

The vessel (Wartsila Permo Turku yard/hull number 111181) has volume 25611 GT-tons, DWT-deadweight tonnage 1703 tons, max draught 7 m. The powerplant is based on MAN-Pielstick marine diesel engines (model 12PC2-5V-400) with combined output 19,12 MW (25645 hp). The registered shipowner is CRISTAL TRADING OPCO LLC, while the registered manager is OPTIMUM SHIPMANAGEMENT SERVICE.

MS Celestyal Crystal (ex-Louis Cristal) was originally launched as "Viking Saga" ( cruiseferry ) and built for Rederi Ab Sally.

In January 1990, during drydock reconstruction at Finnboda Shipyard (Nacka, Sweden), the vessel's entire superstructure was damaged by fire beyond repair. The burnt-out hull was cut into several sections, which were transported to Finnyards shipyard ( Rauma Finland ) and used as the basis of a brand new ferry boat named "Sally Eurocruiser" (without a car deck). The ship's hull was also lengthened by 13 m (43 ft), and the passenger capacity was increased by 452. The marine diesel engines were one notable part retained from the original Viking Saga ship. The rebuilding cost approximately 700M Finnish markka (USD 140M). As this was a completely new vessel, in most sources she is usually listed as such.

The 950-guest ship was acquired by Louis Cruises (rebranded in 2014 to Celestyal Cruises) and was renamed Louis Cristal.

In 2015, a time-chartered vessel was added to the fleet - Celestyal Odyssey/now Blue Dream Star . In 2016, the company purchased the Celestyal Nefeli/MV Gemini .

Celestyal Crystal refurbishment 2015 review

The ship's drydock refurbishment in 2015 (November-December, in Piraeus-Athens Greece ) resulted in the following changes:

Added were 26 new balconies to Oceanview staterooms on deck 6. Another 17 new balconies were added to Oceanviews on deck 7. All 43 new balcony cabins are in the category SBJ (Balcony Junior Suite/new for the brand). Currently, besides the 43 new Junior Suites, the ship also has 8 Balcony Suites (SB) and 2 Grand Suites (SG). Each of the new cabin verandas extends 1,4 m (4,5 ft) from the ship's bulkhead and has a length between 2,8-5,8 m (9-19 ft).

Grand Suite balconies were extended and refurbished. Extensive renovations and redecoration were done to 21 Suites and 227 Oceanview staterooms.

All public areas were also renovated and upgraded. Hotel amenities upgrades were also implemented, along with general maintenance works.

Cuba cruise itineraries 2016-2017

In 2016, the Celestyal Crystal ship started a year-round Caribbean cruise itinerary program with 7-night voyages and round-trip departures out of Havana Cuba and Montego Bay Jamaica . The new Caribbean program (November 21 through March 2017) was followed by summer Mediterranean roundtrip itineraries out of Greece and Turkey. The line's Cuba operations were formerly branded for the North American market as "Cuba Cruise".

The ship's Cuban itinerary included 2 days (overnight stay) in Havana before departure and visited Maria La Gorda (later replaced by Punta Frances), Santiago de Cuba and Cienfuegos. Departures from Cuba were on Mondays, from Jamaica - on Fridays.

In June 2016, the Celestyal company announced adding a new Cuban port of call (Punta Frances) to its 2016-2017 Caribbean itinerary program. The new port replaced Maria La Gorda on the 7-day Cuban itinerary. Located on Isla de la Juventud, Punta Frances has nearly 3 km (2 mi) of white sand beaches.

The revised 7-day Cuban cruises were all-inclusive deals with embarkation in either Havana or Montego Bay.

• Havana (Tuesday / departure at 5 pm)
• Punta Frances (Wednesday / port stay 1 pm - 6 pm)
• Cienfuegos (Thursday / port stay 7 am - 3 pm)
• Montego Bay (Friday / arrival 8 am, departure at 8 pm)
• Santiago de Cuba (Saturday / port stay 8 am - 4 pm)
• Sea day (Sunday)
• Havana (Monday - arrival at 9:30 am).

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Celestyal Cruises - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Celestyal Cruise, Idyllic Aegean - 7 Nights

Athens – Thessaloniki – Kusadasi – Crete – Santorini – Mykonos – Milos – Athens

• Athens Depart from Piraeus port 
• Thessaloniki Arrival in Thessaloniki in the monring 
• Kusadasi Arrival in Kusadasi in the afternoon 
• Crete  Arrive in Crete in the morning 
• Santorini Arrive in Santorini in the morning 
• Mykonos Arrive in Mykonos in the morning 
• Milos Arrive in Milos in the morning 
• Athens Return back to Pireaus to end the cruise 

Available from May to end of October 

Set sail on a 7 night cruise to uncover the enchanting beauty of the Aegean Sea and immerse yourself in the captivating history, vibrant culture, and delectable cuisine of the Greek islands. Roam through rugged terrains, wander through picturesque villages, and journey back in time with expertly guided tours of the Palace of Knossos and the remarkably preserved ancient city of Ephesus, nestled in the heart of the Eastern Mediterranean. Savour the authentic flavours of Mediterranean gastronomy and embrace the enduring Greek way of life as you cruise aboard the magnificent Celestyal Journey vessel. 

Day 1: Saturday - Athens, Greece

Your perfect getaway starts in Athens. Take your time exploring the city, absorbing its unique atmosphere, and enjoying the sights around the port. Afterward, get ready for an exhilarating adventure as our cruise departs from Piraeus at 17:00

Day 2: Sunday - Thessaloniki, Greece

Arrive in Thessaloniki at 10:00, Greece's second-largest city after Athens, boasts stunning coastal beauty and a cosmopolitan atmosphere. Centuries of cultural fusion have transformed Thessaloniki into a culinary paradise, teeming with an abundance of exceptional restaurants and charming eateries. Depart at 19;00 for Kusadasi. 

Day 3: Monday - Kusadasi, Turkey

Arrive in the charming coastal town of Kusadasi by 13:00 and enjoy some leisure time to explore the bustling port-side bazaar. Alternatively, you can opt for an optional guided tour to explore the iconic Hellenistic ruins of Ephesus, a wonder of the ancient world. Depart to Crete at 19:00. Optional tours available.

Day 4: Tuesday - Crete, Greece

As we pull into Crete at 08: 00, you have the chance to snap the imposing 16th century walls of Koules Fortress. Here you can enjoy the calm of the stunning waterfront or opt to go on a whirlwind adventure of the Cretan countryside. To immerse yourself in Crete's history, visit the Palace of Knossos, where you can delve into Europe's earliest civilization at the Knossos Museum. Your departure for Santorini is scheduled for 19:00. Optional tours available. 

Day 5: Wednesday - Santorini, Greece

Explore Fira and Oia's quaint villages, capturing the charm of white-washed houses and blue-domed churches perched on caldera cliffs. As day turns to night, savor the joy of Santorini's legendary sunsets adorning the sky with captivating colours. Depart at 00:30 to Mykonos. Optional tours available. 

Day 6: Thursday - Mykonos, Greece  

Arrive in Mykonos at 08:00, where you can immerse yourself in the island's vibrant scene. Explore a variety of bars, dine at restaurants, discover luxury boutique-style shops, and wander through the historic town center with its charming white-washed houses and winding labyrinthine streets.  We'll set sail for Milos early hours on Friday morning. Optional tours available.

Day 7: Friday - Milos, Greece

Arrive in Milos at 09:00  and immerse yourself in the captivating landscape of this Greek island. Its volcanic origins are evident in the bewitching terrain, where dramatic rock formations emerge from crystalline waters, shaping the stunning coastline. Optional tours available.

Day 8: Saturday - Athens, Greece 

As your cruise journey comes to an end, the alluring city of Athens awaits. Explore the vibrant side streets full of life and culture or venture towards the Acropolis for a breathtaking vista of the city. Optional tours available. 

For any dietary requirements, please advise at the time of booking. 

Customise your trip

Acropolis Hill Hotel

• Easy access and within walking distance to the main attractions
• Modern facilities in a boutique atmosphere
• Magnificent views from the rooftop terrace

Athens Tiare Hotel

• In the heart of the city centre
• Stylish rooms with custom furnishings and modern facilities
• A la carte restaurant and lounge

Wyndham Grand Athens

• All rooms have a view of Athens
• Spectaular rooftop pool
• Perfect for exploring the cities archeological sites

Thessaloniki

• Arrive in Thessaloniki at 10:00, Greece's vibrant coastal gem, culinary haven
• Flexibility on dates and times are not available

We currently just have this hotel on Thessaloniki

• Arrive Kusadasi at 13:00 annd explore the bazaar or join Ephesus tour.

We currently just have this hotel on Kusadasi

• Arrive in Crete in the morning and capture Koules Fortress or explore countryside.

We currently just have this hotel on Crete

• Discover Fira, Oia's charm, white washed beauty and sunset bliss

We currently just have this hotel on Santorini

Day 6: Thursday - Mykonos, Greece

• Arrive in Mykonos in the morning and explore the islands vibrant scene.

We currently just have this hotel on Mykonos

• Arrive in Milos at 09:00 in the morning, immerse in captivating volcanic landscape and stunning coastline.

We currently just have this hotel on Milos

Novus City Hotel

• Modern city centre hotel
• Easy access to many sights of historical, leisure and tourist interest
• Stylish city experience

Request a quotation for this holiday

Or call to book: 020 8492 6868.

Greek Island Hopping On The Iconic Aegean Cruise: Detailed Celestyal Cruise Review 2023

Dreaming of doing one of the cruises around Greek islands?

That’s exactly what I did when I went cruising the Aegean with Celestyal Cruises.

I took the Iconic Aegean Cruise, a 5-day trip that hops between some of Greece’s most beautiful destinations. From the white-washed villages of Mykonos and Santorini, quaint hilltop villages of Patmos, and awe-inspiring ruins of Knossos and Ephesus and more.

Add in crystal clear waters, delicious local cuisine, and top-class hospitality, and you’ve got the makings of the perfect vacation. Find out everything in my full Celestyal Cruise review.

This post may contain affiliate links. To find out what this means and more information visit my disclosure page .

The Celestyal Experience: My Detailed Celestyal Cruise Review

My 4 night cruise from Athens was on board Celestyal Olympia. Celestyal Cruises offer a whole range of options to cruise Greek Isles. I was on the one called Iconic Aegean Cruise. 

The route formed a loop, departing from Athens to the Greek islands, and then back again. This was my first cruise experience and to say I was excited would be an understatement with wide-eyed wonder, to visit places that had been on my travel bucket list for eons. 

Aegean Islands Cruise Stops

• Kusadasi (Turkey)
• Laviron (Athens)

I’ve partnered with Celestyal Cruises to bring you this travel guide. This article is based on the destinations and experiences I took part in. All views and opinions are my own.

Facilities Onboard the Celestyal Cruise Ship

Celestyal cruise ships aren’t the biggest vessels you’ll find, which means if you’re a regular to cruises, don’t compare them to the super-size ships you’ll get in places like the Caribbean.

That said, there was no lack of facilities on board! And it was still big enough for me to lose my bearing on more than one occasion. Thankfully, there’s a Celestyal Crystal deck plan in the foyer on every level which I had to look pretty much every time I wanted to go anywhere – as my first cruise, it felt like a big ship!

Dining Facilities

There were two main dining areas on board. The main one is on Deck 4, and a smaller less-formal one is on Deck 9. These both offered buffet-style menus. You could also have the a la carte menu on Deck 9. 

I tried a variety of meals from the buffet selection as well as the menu. Both were excellent in terms of variety and quality – even for a vegetarian! 

As part of the dining experience, you could also have house wine included with your meal as well as soft drinks and water. I had the premium-level drinks package which also included things like prosecco, premium wines, spirits, and cocktails – and yes, I took full advantage of this!

If you’re celebrating a special occasion or want something a little bit different, then I would recommend opting for the 6-course Greek Table Experience at least once during your time on the cruise. 

The boat runs a cashless system. Every time you order something your keycard gets swiped. At dinner, this is used to authorise any drinks you want. If you have a drinks package, they only get registered, but without charge.

If you don’t have a drink package, then any drinks you order during your stay get billed to this card and you pay the balance on the final day.

📖 Read More: Things To Know Before Your First Cruise

Wanting to make the most of my premium drink package, I made a point of trying out all the bars on board – at least a few times each! There are seven to choose from. 

Opening times for each of them vary, although my two favourite ones were either Horizon Bar on Deck 12 during the daytime, which was unarguably the best viewing spot on the ship.

I also spent a decent amount of time in Eclipse Bar on Deck 7. This is where I ended up most evenings as it had musicians and singers, lots of seating, and was next to the Theatre, which I would have been in before. 

At each stop, there were options for three different excursions. They each had a different focus. I opted for ones that either did a walking tour or a ruin site.

You’re not obliged to go with a tour, and if you prefer, you can get off at the port and do your own thing or opt to stay on the ship and use the facilities there. 

Tours need to be booked in advance. You’ll be able to pick up a brochure which gives details of everything on offer and there are bundle discounts for multiple bookings.

Every excursion uses knowledgeable local guides and makes use of Whispers – a device you wear around your neck, with a headphone attached. 

Because I wanted to see so much, I did one excursion at every stop, I really enjoyed every one of the excursions.

However, doing all of them can feel quite rushed. I was often getting back from one excursion, eating, and trying to cram in an afternoon activity on board before heading off on to another excursion.

If I was doing this exact trip again, I’d probably limit myself to just one excursion a day to allow for a little more downtime. However, the FOMO kept getting the better of me!

📖 Read Next: 10 Reasons to Take a Cruise In The Mediterranean

Entertainment

Each day has a fully packed schedule of things to do, which is great if you don’t feel like getting off the ship. 

There’s a pool on the top deck, as well as a gym if you want to work off all the delicious food you’ve been eating. 

You’ll also be given a daily paper that lists everything happening.

Activities range from kids’ games clubs, minigolf, dance lessons, cooking demonstrations, bingo, fitness, karaoke, and even language lessons! I joined the Greek dance class which proved to be a lot of fun!

In the evening, the highlight is the Theatre. Every night is a different show based on a different theme. Expect acrobatics, singers, dancers, and glorious costumes.

Lots of the bars also have live music throughout the day and night, don’t miss the disco pumping out a range of dance floor classics late night.

If you’re after relaxation, then there’s an onsite spa. This offers various beauty treatments as well as massage. 

You’ll also find a range of shops selling everything from souvenirs, bags, watches, clothing, and snacks (just in case you’re hungry!)

Cabins Onboard Celestyal Cruises Ships

During my 5 day Greek Island cruise, I stayed in a twin cabin with a sea view. 

The rooms were clean and homely. Twice a day the housekeeping team brought fresh towels and toiletries. I often came back to my room to find an elephant, flower, or rabbit folded towel sitting on my bed which added a fun touch. 

The rooms were well equipped and had plenty of storage space, as well as a hairdryer, safe, and TV which all made for a very comfortable cruise for 4 nights.

Every one of the Celestyal staff I met was outstanding in every way possible.

During my time on the cruise, I was really looked after. Even if I try to find a little fault, I just can’t – this was some of the best customer service I’ve ever had and it really gave a VIP feel to my first cruise experience.

The restaurant staff were always ready to greet our group and the bar staff even remembered what my favourite cocktail was – an Old Fashioned if anyone’s asking – although maybe their remembering my drink was more of a reflection on me, spending far too many late evenings there! 

Overall, I was incredibly impressed with all of the crew from the moment we boarded the ship until we disembarked on our final day.

What to Expect on the Iconic Aegean Cruise

One of the best things about doing the Celestyal Cruises Iconic Aegean Sea cruise is that you get a little taste of a lot of different destinations. 

I’ve travelled a lot, however, Greece was somewhere that had eluded me for years. Previously, I had only visited Crete on a family holiday as a young child – so young, that I don’t really count it as places I’ve visited purely because I don’t remember much.

Island hopping was a great way to see a lot in a short space of time. Every island I visited was more like a tease. It had an almost ‘try before you buy’ effect, and is a great way to sample the diversity of the islands. 

Day 1 – Mykonos

After nearly an all day cruise to get here, this was our first stop. We arrived on the gorgeous island of Mykonos in the late afternoon for our first excursion.

This is probably the most picturesque Greek island on the Aegean Sea – well, either here, or Santorini!

The island of Mykonos has a reputation as the ‘party island’ of Greece, especially during the peak summer months. 

One of the benefits of visiting during shoulder season is that I was able to appreciate the pretty cobblestoned streets flanked by white sugar-cube-like buildings. Bright blue doors and colourful pink flowers set the scene beautifully.

It was so special getting to experience this with next to no one in the town – an impossible feat in peak season!

We started with a tour of the old town, stopping off at various landmarks.

Two of the most photographed places are the Mykonos Windmills and Little Venice. These are popular spots for sunset, and even in the shoulder season, they do get crowded as the sun goes down. 

As the sun set, we took the shuttle bus to a local tavern outside the main town to enjoy a traditional Mykonian Dinner. 

As a vegetarian, I was spoilt for choice. Greece is one of the best countries I’ve visited where I didn’t feel like I was missing out as a lot of their traditional food is naturally meat free.

We had Greek dips to start with, then followed by a Greek salad, stuffed peppers, and fresh bread with olive oil all washed down with local wine!  

Day 2 – Kusadasi (Turkey)

Although this is mostly a Greek Isles cruise, one of the stops was to the coastal town of Kusadasi.

As a huge fan of temples and ruins , I took the excursion out to the ruins of Ephesus. The gates open at 8 am, our bus arrived about 20 minutes early. This meant we were first in – which is how I managed to get photos with no one in them!

The ruins of Ephesus are some of the best preserved in all of the Mediterranean. The Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, still stands here although you’ll only see fragments of ruins. 

The city used to be one of the Mediterranean’s main commercial centres and you’ll see evidence of Greek and Roman architectural styles  

Some of the main highlights at this UNESCO World Heritage site include the Agora, the Library of Celsus – which shares an uncanny resemblance to The Treasury at Petra, Jordan – as well as an impressive Odeon and a well-preserved collonaded marble-paved street flanked by intricate millennia-old carvings. 

After the morning exploring the ruin sites, we had some time to explore the souks around the town of Kusadasi before getting back on the ship.

We had two stops on today’s Iconic Aegean Greek Islands cruise itinerary. 

Day 2 – Patmos

Our next stop was at another popular Greek island in the Aegean, the island of Patmos. 

Lots of the Aegean Sea islands feature the traditional windmills, icing-block houses and winding cobblestone alleys – it was no different here. 

We started on the hilltop town of Chora. First at the windmills of Patmos where we were able to take in the views of the island before going on to explore the labyrinth-like town.

The medieval town was made up of a maze of winding alleys, tunnelled pathways, steps and dead ends – all part of the design to help protect it from invasion.

We spent a decent amount of time in this timeless town before moving on to our next stop. 

Patmos is a well-known pilgrimage site, as it was here that Saint John the Theologian wrote the Book of Revelation. We visited the Cave of the Apocolypse which is where Saint John took refuge and saw the visions on which he based the book. 

Day 3 – Rhodes

Our third day started on the island of Rhodes. As a fanatic of ruin sites, I opted for the excursion to the Acropolis of Lindos. 

Lindos is a pretty little town set on a hillside. It features the signature winding streets dotted with souvenir shops, churches, cafes and restaurants. These lead up the hillside to the Acropolis of Lindos. 

One thing to note, there are a lot of steps! I know this was given as a warning when people booked this excursion. If you do have mobility issues, it could prove challenging getting up here.    

A reward for the climb is an incredibly picturesque ruin site, perched on a cliff edge overlooking the sea on one side, and the town of Lindos on the other. 

The Acropolis of Lindos has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. It dates back to around 300 BC and was once a fortress.

Some of the best things to see here are the famous Lion’s Gate entrance as well as the Temple of Athena – if you’ve seen the Acropolis or Ancient Agora in Athens , then it does share a lot of similarities with the temples at both. 

After exploring Lindos, you get to spend the rest of the day around the historic centre of Rhodes.

The old centre oozes with history as well as being the site for one of the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World – the Colossus of Rhodes. You can visit the site where the gigantic statue apparently once stood in the old harbour. 

With your guide, you’re given a whistle-stop tour of the ancient city, and then have a whole afternoon to yourself to explore in more depth. Some unmissable sites are the Palace of the Grand Masters, St Paul’s Gate and Street of the Knights as well as the wall walk.

Day 4 – Crete

Crete is the largest Aegean island, we arrive early in the day at the port of Heraklion. 

I had visited Crete once before on a family holiday as a child, but I don’t remember much of it. The one thing I do remember though was the Ruins of Knossos – my obsession with temples and ruins is evidently quite deep-rooted. I was super excited to have the opportunity to go back to this site.

The ancient city of Knossos was inhabited by the Minoans. It is the site of Europe’s oldest city and the mythical Labyrinth.

Knossos differs quite a bit from the other ruins I had seen so far in Greece. The main difference is the colourful frescoes which adorn the buildings – however many of them are recreations. Even so, they are beautiful and I’m glad I got to visit the ruin site all these years on.

Some of the highlights of Knossos are the central court and the royal apartments. The central court is a large open area surrounded by columns, which makes for some amazing photos.

The royal apartments have been meticulously reconstructed to show how they would have looked in their heyday and where you can see the majority of the colourful frescos.

After Knossos, we headed to Heraklion for some free time.

It feels like I have barely scratched the surface in Crete – this is a huge island. I’d certainly like to come back and explore more of the towns of Crete in a lot more depth sometime.

After visiting Heraklion, we headed back to our Aegean cruise ship for the next stop of the day. 

Day 4 – Santorini

The second stop of the day was to one of the most renowned Greek Islands in the Aegean: Santorini.

With such a short time here it was hardly enough to do it justice – plus we had stormy looking skies above – it just means it’s a great excuse to come back – not that I need much persuasion.

I opted to do the volcano tour. Partly because I’d already seen a lot of white houses, but also because the weather wasn’t ideal for capturing those iconic blue skied photos. Besides – I love volcanoes – or any natural landscape, so it was a no-brainer to go and explore Nea Kameri.

We took a small boat over to the island. Because of the dark rocks, grey skies, and rain earlier in the day, made all the colours of the island so vibrant. Looking for the silver lining, the inclement weather definitely played a part in helping me capture incredibly dramatic images here. 

The volcano in Santorini is still active on this crescent-shaped island. Our guide explained to us the geology of the island, and how the island of Santorini came to be the shape it is today.

Historically, it was once a circular island with a small entry, then in the 1600s, a massive volcanic eruption caused the centre of the island to be destroyed and it became an underwater crater dotted with separate islands.

We made our way up the volcano for more phenomenal views. We could see steam rising out of the ground, which made the experience so atmospheric. It is a bit whiffy in places because of the sulphur. 

Because this is still an active volcano, the ground is still warm. Our guide dug a little hole and just beneath the surface, the ground was hot! It reminded me of the time I toasted a marshmallow in a volcano during my trip to Guatemala.  

After our short time in Santorini, we reboarded the boat for our final night.

Day 5 – Laviron (Athens)

On the fifth day, we arrived back in Laviron which is where our Iconic Aegean Cruise ended.

There are options for excursions into the ancient capital of Athens. For me, I took the transfer back to the city, exhausted but having enjoyed the most outstanding, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Typically, I travel in a much slower style. However, there is so much to see in Greece that I would highly recommend joining the Iconic Aegean Cruise to see and experience a lot in a short space of time.

Sometimes Athens gets a bad reputation for being dangerous and dirty. I didn’t experience that at all, on the contrary! It’s an amazing city, and I recommend spending at least a few days in Athens before onward travel.

Read Next: 29 Great Reasons To Visit Athens

How to Get to Celestyal Cruises, Greece

Most people arrive in Athens by plane. From there, transfer down to the port.

There are numerous options for a Greek island cruise from Athens, and the capital has three ports. The Iconic Aegean Cruise with Celestyal leaves from Lavrion which is 60km southeast of the capital. 

You could make your own way to Laviron by public bus. However, the easiest option is by taxi. From Athens city centre, the journey will take just under an hour. If you’re going directly from Athens airport, then it takes around 30 minutes.

Other Options With Celestyal Cruises, Greece

There are loads of Greece cruise packages with Celestyal. 

I did the 5D/4N version of the Iconic Agean Cruise. They also do a 4D/3N version of this cruise from Athens to Santorini.

Another popular option is the Celestyal Cruise Idyllic Aegean , which lasts for 7 nights stopping off at Thessaloniki and Milos. 

Iconic Aegean With Celestyal Cruises Review – FAQs

I’ve gone into quite a bit of depth about what to expect on a Celestyal Cruise. This section answers some other questions that I didn’t cover in the main part of my review. 

Who Do Celestyal Cruises Cater For?

Celestyal Cruises cater to all ages and budgets. Onboard, you’ll find plenty of activities and entertainment to enjoy, including live shows, discos, fitness classes, and more. The cruise staff are also multilingual so they can assist guests from around the world.

Can I Do the Iconic Aegean Cruise as a Solo Traveler?

Yes, the Iconic Aegean Cruise is a great option for solo travellers. The onboard activities are a great way to meet other guests, they even have dedicated solo traveller get-togethers, and the shore excursions happen in groups.

What Clothes Do I Need to Pack for a Cruise?

For the offshore excursions plan to wear lighter comfortable clothing. Shorts, sundresses, and lightweight trousers are all great options. Prepare for cooler evenings with a cardigan or jacket. If you plan to do any swimming, remember to pack your swimsuit and towel. Also, something a little dressier for the gala dinner and evenings. 

When Is the Best Time to Do a Greek Island Cruise? 

You can take a cruise around the Greek Islands at any time of year. If you’re after the best weather , then go during the summer months. Temperatures range from around 21-27°C (70-80°F) from May to October, with temperatures often rising above 29°C ( 85°F) in July and August. However, if you’re looking for more affordable prices and fewer crowds, consider cruising in the shoulder season from April to May or September to October.

Thinking of Doing an Aegean Cruise From Athens?

Are you thinking of taking this iconic Aegean Cruise with Celestyal Cruises?

I hope my Celestyal Cruises review based on my personal experience has given you some insight on what to expect, and answered any questions you might have.

As my first cruise, this set the standard pretty high. Although I’m typically more of a slow traveller, the great thing about doing a cruise like this is that it gives you a little taste of lots of different places. 

I know I’ll certainly be back in the Aegean Islands to explore them more in-depth. The only problem now is choosing which one to start with 

Looking for more reasons to visit Greece? read more inspirational articles here…

• 29 Great Reasons to Visit Athens

Save it for later

If you found this Celestyal Cruise review of the Iconic Aegean Cruise useful, save this post for future reference. Know someone else who will find this helpful, then why not share it with them?

Have a question about planning your Greece itinerary? then head to the Contact page and drop me a message.

• 10 Reasons to Take a Cruise In The Mediterranean
• Cruising for Beginners: Things I Wish I Knew Before My First Cruise
• Greek Island Hopping: Detailed Review of Celestyal Cruises

Hey, I'm Becki......and I'm a self-confessed travel addict and experience connoisseur!

In other words, I’m a bucket-list traveller, on a mission to experience the best things our fabulous little planet has to offer with the least environmental impact.

When I'm not climbing mountains, scuba diving, spotting wildlife or exploring ruins, you'll probably find me sipping coffee, or with a glass of wine in hand planning my next adventure.

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Celestyal Discovery Cruise Ship

• Cruise Ships
• Celestyal Discovery

Description

Specifications.

Life onboard the Discovery is more than a cruise – it’s an experience that invites you to indulge in our Hellenic heritage. Relax with a refreshing drink in the ambient lounges, indulge in sumptuous authentic cuisine or take advantage of our excellent onboard facilities, you will never be lost for something to do.

With ample facilities combined with distinctive Greek hospitality and personalized service, our friendly team aboard the Celestyal Discovery ensure your time with us is enjoyable, memorable and exciting.

Photo Gallery

Pictures from the Celestyal Discovery Cruise Ship

• Date Launched: 1982
• Refurbished Date: 2015
• Tonnage: 37,584 grt
• Length: 705 ft
• Beam: 94 ft
• Speed: 19 knots
• Guest Capacity: 1,664
• Total Staff: 525 crew
• Officers: International
• Crew: International
• Registry: Malta
• Ship Type: Mainstream

Bars and Lounges

• Thalassa bar
• Eclipse Lounge and Bar

Entertainment and Nightlife

• Muses Lounge
• Selene Lounge and Bar

Internet and Communications

• Telephone Connection
• Internet Connection

Other Facilities and Services

• Shopping Area
• Photographer
• Medical Services

Restaurants and Dining

• Aegean restaurant

Spas and Wellness

• Beauty Salon
• Full Service Spa
• Sauna / Steam Room

IA - Interior Stateroom

• Occupancy: Up to 4 guests (~118 sq ft)
• Number of Cabins: 114
• Amenities: 2 lower beds, 3rd/4th berth, bathroom with shower, air condition, telephone, hair dryer, safety deposit box and TV.

IB - Interior Stateroom

• Number of Cabins: 124

IC - Interior Stateroom

• Occupancy: Up to 2 guests (~118 sq ft)
• Number of Cabins: 68
• Amenities: 2 lower beds, bathroom with shower, air condition, telephone, hair dryer, safety deposit box and TV.

XA - Exterior Staterooms

• Number of Cabins: 160
• Amenities: 2 lower beds, 3rd/4th berth, bathroom with shower, air condition, telephone, hair dryer, safety deposit box, TV and a porthole.

XB - Exterior Staterooms

• Number of Cabins: 146
• Amenities: 2 lower beds, 3rd /4th berth, bathroom with shower, air condition, telephone, hair dryer, safety deposit box, TV and a window.

XC - Exterior Staterooms

• Occupancy: Up to 2 guests (~129 sq ft)
• Number of Cabins 82
• Amenities: 2 lower beds, bathroom with shower, air condition, telephone, hair dryer, safety deposit box, TV and a window.

SJ - Junior Suite

• Occupancy: Up to 3 guests (~236 sq ft)
• Number of Cabins 21
• Amenities: 2 lower beds and 1 sofa bed, bathroom with bathtub, air condition, telephone, hair dryer, safety deposit box, TV, refrigerated mini bar and a window.

SB - Junior Suite

• Occupancy: Up to 3 guests (~290 sq ft)
• Number of Cabins 7
• Amenities: 1 double bed and 1 sofa bed, bathroom with bathtub, air condition, telephone, hair dryer, safety deposit box, TV, refrigerated mini bar and a balcony.

SG - Junior Suite

• Occupancy: Up to 3 guests (~376 sq ft)
• Number of Cabins 2
• Amenities: 1 double bed and 1 sofa bed, bathroom with bathtub and shower, air condition, telephone, hair dryer, safety deposit box, TV, refrigerated mini bar and a balcony.

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Celestyal Cruises

Operated by celestyal discovery.

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Greek Islands & Turkey

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Do not hesitate to contact us. We are an expert team and we are happy to assist you.

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Greek Island Cruise: The Best Way To Explore Greece?

D o you hate packing and unpacking? I do too. I just got back from a 5-week trip around Greece. During the first part of my trip, I had to switch hotels every couple of nights. Ugh! So it was a relief to finally board the Celestyal Crystal and stay put for my eight-day Greek Island Cruise ! I can’t wait to share with you why I think this is the best Greek Island Cruise to go Greek Island Hopping !

8-Day Greek Island Cruise “Idyllic Aegean”

There are a few reasons why I picked this cruise line and itinerary for my first Greek Island Cruise:

• The islands on the Idyllic Aegean were on my bucket list (Thessaloniki, Kusadasi/Ephesus, Crete, Santorini, Mykonos, and Milos).
• Celestyal Cruise Line stays longer at each destination, so you can experience the islands after the crowds leave. This made a BIG difference!!!
• They offer small group “ authentic excursions ” at many destinations, which is great if you want to have a more custom experience in Greece.
• With 1200 passengers, the Celestyal Crystal is a relatively small ship, which I prefer.
• I did the 3-Continent cruise with Celestyal in 2019 and loved it!!!

Greek Island Cruise Itinerary

As I was traveling with my 13-year-old niece, I found the Celestyal Idyllic Aegean cruise itinerary and tours offered a good mix of historical places, great food, beautiful islands, and stunning beaches that made this trip interesting for both of us. Here were some of the highlights at each of the Greek islands we visited.

Day 1: Piraeus/Athens

As we arrived the night before our cruise departed, we didn’t have time to explore Athens or Piraeus before we boarded the ship. I had been to Athens before, but it was my niece’s first time in the city, so we added a few days to explore Athens after the cruise.

We arrived on the ship pretty early, around 11 AM. There was almost no line to check in and we were on board the ship at around 11:15. After checking out our Junior Suite , we explored the ship and had a quick lunch at the buffet. By the time we returned, our bags were waiting for us in the room and we unpacked and got settled in before heading to dinner and watching the evening show “Mama Mia”.

I highly recommend getting to the ship early. Last time we did a cruise out of Piraeus, we checked in after lunch, and not only was the check-in process much longer due to long lines, but the whole day felt more rushed.

Starting in September, you might be lucky to sail on the newest ship of the Celestyal fleet, the Celestyal Journey . This 1260 cabin ship features 149 suites, two pools, seven restaurants, and eight lounges and bars. Can’t wait to sail on it, too!

Day 2: Thessaloniki

On our first stop, we explored the second-largest city of Greece, Thessaloniki, on a food tour. This was an “authentic experiences” tour, and it was fantastic. We were a small group of 6 hungry travelers, ready to eat our way through the city.

Our local guide was fantastic and shared some interesting stories about Thessaloniki while taking us to some of the city’s best restaurants, bakeries, and cafés. We tried things like traditional Greek coffee, bougatsa (phyllo dough pockets stuffed with either sweet cream or cheese), and a traditional meze spread at an ouzeria with all kinds of treats, such as grilled octopus, mussels, fava beans, fried zucchini flowers stuffed with goat cheese, and many more local delicacies.

After our delicious food tour, my niece and I strolled through the city and did some shopping before returning to the ship.

Day 3: Kusadasi/Ephesus

This was my second time in Kusadasi, but the first time for my niece, so we definitely wanted to see Ephesus. The crowds at the end of May/beginning of June were definitely more than the last time I visited in December, but I= think that the UNESCO Heritage site of Ephesus is a must – at least once.

My favorite place in Ephesus is the area of the Terrace houses, which are over 2000 years old. You have to pay an extra entrance fee, but it is worth it to see the stunning mosaics and wall paintings that are incredibly well-preserved.

Afterward, we visited a carpet factory. To be honest, this was not my cup of tea as the experience was very sales-y and I would have preferred some more free time in Kusadasi to explore.

Pro Tip: If you plan on buying sweets and souvenirs, don’t buy it in the shops in town. For many things, the prices inside the cruise ship terminal are much better ($8 vs $22 for a box of Turkish delight).

Day 4: Heraklion, Crete

Crete is the largest Island in Greece, and one of the biggest sights on the island is the Palace of Knossos . Knossos is often referred to as the first city of Europe, dating back to the Neolithic area around 7000 BC.

After spending our previous day in Ephesus, I thought it would be a good idea to skip another day of ruins and go on a scenic drive around the Cretian countryside to a picturesque mountain village instead.

Big mistake! Our tour was quite touristy and not as idyllic as I had hoped. Three big busses of tourists approximately doubled that small village’s population, making it a lot less “quaint.” We overheard several cruise ship guests who had gone to Knossos’s archeological site and LOVED it. I recommend choosing one of the Palace of Knossos excursions for this cruise stop.

Day 5: Santorini

Santorini is by far the most popular Greek island, and we were visiting at the beginning of the high season, so I was expecting big crowds instead of serene Instagram-able scenery. Don’t get me wrong, it was busy, but as all the other cruise ships were leaving, the island transformed and turned into the magical place that drew those crowds in the first place.

We started our day with a winetasting tour and visited two small villages. Our group was about 20 people, and we had a very nice experience without the crowds and saw some beautiful places in Santorini. We visited two wineries: Anhydrous Winery is within walking distance or a short taxi ride from the town of Fira and has excellent wines. But don’t miss Venetsanos Winery ! This winery has stunning views overlooking the whole caldera. What a spot to enjoy a glass of wine, no?

After our tour, we were dropped off near the cable car. As there were five cruise ships in Santorini, the wait time in the afternoon was approximately 1-1.5 hours. I felt bad for the other cruise ship travelers, as their visit to Santorini was cut even shorter by having to stand in line to make it back in time to the last tender.

Celestyal doesn’t leave Santorini until past midnight, so got to enjoy the island when it was a lot less crowded. We strolled up the coastal path to Imerovigli, a small village north of Fira to enjoy the views and then had dinner trying some of the delicious Santorini dishes , overlooking the sunset over the caldera. Definitely worth the splurge for this stunning view.

Our waitress said it was only about 10 more minutes by foot down the switchbacks from the restaurant to the tender boat harbor. That was a lie, ha! I attribute our 30+ minute descent to the fact that I was wearing flimsy sandals (the stones are very slippery!) and that we had to dodge the donkey droppings in the dark with flashlights.

Pro Tip: If you plan on walking up or down to the harbor, wear proper footwear and give yourself a little extra time before the last tender leaves.

Day 6: Mykonos

Since my niece and I enjoyed our food tour in Thessaloniki so much, my niece and I decided to do another one in Mykonos . This time, our group was a little bigger (17 people) but we had the chance to try some delicious food on this tour as well, while also getting to know the port city of Chora.

Mykonos is known as one of the high-society party islands of the Mediterranean and we got to enjoy a little glimpse of it as our ship was again the last one to leave the port well past midnight. Most cruise ships left the island between 3-5 PM. After they left, Mykonos transformed similarly to Santorini and felt like a completely different island.

Day 7: Milos

I was really looking forward to Milos. My niece and I signed up to go kayaking, and I could not wait to see the bright turquoise water with white limestone cliffs. Unfortunately, the weather did not cooperate. We were still able to kayak and had a fantastic time, but the grey sky turned the water into a similarly bleak color.

However, my niece and I still had a blast. Our guide showed us stunning beaches, hidden caves, and hot springs and even shared homemade snacks with us. It was my niece’s first time kayaking, and she did really well. I was super proud of her for trying something outside her comfort zone, and when we returned to the ship, she couldn’t stop smiling the rest of the day. What a great way to finish our Greek island cruise!

Day 8: Piraeus/Athens

Time flies when you are having fun, and before we knew it, we were already back in Piraeus, and it was time to disembark.

Greek Island Cruise with Celestyal Review

I am so glad I picked Celestyal for my first Greek isles cruise. The small ship, small group tours, and long time in port really made this cruise a perfect fit for me, as I am not a big fan of crowds and like to explore each destination a little deeper. Of course, each island deserves more than just a one-day stop, but I felt I got a good first glimpse of each cruise stop.

If you have limited time and want to see as much as possible and as many places as possible during your trip to Greece, then a Greek island cruise is the most convenient and cost-effective way. Seven different destinations in 8 days would not be possible in any other way.

Of course, a smaller ship like the Celestyal Crystal has not have quite as many amenities as some of those big cruise ships, but it still has everything you expect to find on a cruise ship, including spa, pool, jacuzzi, casino, evening performances and several restaurants. And since there is no sea day and the time in port is so long, I wouldn’t have had much time to take advantage of those amenities anyway.

On the other hand, a smaller ship and longer time in port also means that it is less invasive and disruptive for the locals. Yes, they depend on tourism, but when the roads are so busy that even emergency vehicles can’t get through, you can see the dark side of mass tourism. As we had more time in port, we also had more time to shop, eat, and drink at each destination, supporting the local economy. Celestyal Cruise Line is a Greek company with headquarters in Piraeus, so even the money for the cruise tickets goes back into the Greek economy.

If you are looking for a small ship Greek island cruise that lets you maximize your time at each cruise stop and want to avoid the big crowds, then Celestyal is for you. I highly recommend them and can’t wait to cruise with them again!

Greek Island Cruise – Pin for later:

Maria joined a Press Trip sponsored by Celestyal Cruise Line  to experience the 8-day Greek Island Cruise Idyllic Aegean to write this article. This invitation did not influence her opinion and review of the cruise, tours, meals, and places mentioned in this article.

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Dazzling Doha to Ancient Athens - 14 Nights

Prepare to embark on an extraordinary voyage that will transport you from the vibrant energy of Doha to the dazzling cities of Dubai and Muscat. Experience the enchanting beauty of Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, followed by a captivating transit through the iconic Suez Canal to the historic port of Port Said. Immerse yourself in the charming allure of Kusadasi before arriving in the ancient city of Athens. Along this remarkable journey, indulge in blissful days at sea aboard the Celestyal Journey. Unwind with a plethora of activities, savor delectable dining options, and be captivated by world-class entertainment. Get ready to embark on a unique and stylish cruising experience, seamlessly blending the magic of Arabia with the elegance of Europe.

Cruise itinerary

From a city where modernity meets tradition, Doha bids you a kind and warm farewell as you begin your 14 Night voyage from Arabia to Europe in style and luxury aboard our Celestyal Journey. Map out the stars as we set sail for adventures untold around the opulent and scenic Arabian Gulf coast.

As the Arabian sun whispers over the port of Mina Rashid, Dubai welcomes you with a blend of luxury and tradition. Imagine stepping off your winter cruise into a world where modern skyscrapers kiss the sky and bustling souks offer a treasure trove of wonders. Breathe in the scents of exotic spices as you navigate through vibrant streets, and let the allure of this desert oasis captivate your senses.

A day at sea gives you the opportunity to explore the ship’s array of amenities, take full advantage of the onboard activities and indulge in our chef’s exquisite cuisine. Kick back and soak up the sun as we treat you to drinks from the bar. Alternatively, why not participate in handicrafts, language lessons, traditional dancing, games or exercise. There’s plenty to do.

As our cruise charts a course for Muscat, a gem in the Arabian Gulf, prepare to be enchanted by its blend of ancient culture and modern flair. Stroll along the Corniche, witness the grandeur of the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, and haggle in the vibrant Mutrah Souq. Muscat’s serene beaches and majestic forts are your playground for the day, offering a glimpse into Oman’s rich heritage against a backdrop of dramatic mountains.

El Sheik, Egypt

As dawn breaks over Sharm El-Sheik, the golden sun casts its warmth over the Red Sea’s azure waters, promising an unforgettable day ashore. Venture to explore the vibrant coral reefs on a snorkeling expedition or traverse the desert on a quad bike for an adrenaline rush. Later, relax in a seaside café, where the blend of spices and sea air will invigorate your senses before you return to the comforts of your onward voyage.

Sokhna (Suez), Egypt

Ain Sokhna, a charming port city along the Red Sea, beckons you with its rich history and captivating sights. Dating back to ancient times, this coastal gem was once a bustling center of trade. Today, as you step ashore, immerse yourself in this picturesque destination. Explore the vibrant local markets, savor authentic Egyptian delicacies, or unwind on the sun-drenched beaches. For the history buffs, a visit to the nearby ancient city of Suez offers a fascinating glimpse into Egypt’s past. Whether you seek cultural discoveries or blissful relaxation, Ain Sokhna promises a day filled with unforgettable experiences.

Day at Sea - Suez Transit

Prepare for a day of awe-inspiring vistas and unparalleled relaxation as we sail northwards through the iconic Suez Canal. From the comfort of our luxurious cruise ship, you’ll witness the timeless grandeur of landmarks such as the Great Bitter Lake and the historic town of Ismailia, nestled along the canal’s banks. As you soak in these remarkable sights, indulge in the sheer tranquility of our onboard amenities. Unwind with a pampering spa session, savor delectable cuisine, or simply bask in the warm embrace of the sun on our expansive deck. This is a day to cherish, where the wonders of Egypt meet the epitome of onboard bliss.

The dynamic beach resort of Kusadasi, famous for its warm and friendly ambience, welcomes you. From here, you’ll be whisked away for a guided tour around ancient Ephesus, one of the highlights of this iconic Aegean cruise. Before you continue your Aegean adventure, take the time to enjoy the scenic seafront promenade and the town’s impressive Grand Bazaar.

While your cruise may be drawing to an end, the tantalising city of Athens still lies ahead. Delve deep into the city’s sidestreets, bursting with life and culture. Or, clamber up high to the Acropolis for a stunning view of this thriving, cosmopolitan city. As the sun sets, take in the Athens skyline by night and wonder at the dancing Aegean. There’s no better place to end your cruise than here.

Amazing excursions carefully curated

Panoramic dubrovnik, village life & wine, the game of thrones locations tour.

IGOR’S MAGICAL RECYCLED SCRAP ART

Dubrovnik food on foot, crafting your own gin, indulge your passion for wine, discover a fairytale town, discover the best of kefalonia, see the real-life relics of santa claus, the ever green island of corfu – achillion, kanoni, the town, unveil the wonders of kefalonia, cool caves and a clifftop town, paleokastritsa – natural beauty and byzantine presence -the city of corfu and kanoni, transfer to makris gialos beach, trani and oil mill with tasting, achilleion – corfu town, olympia & archaeological museum, monopoli & rural life experience, historic kotor & budva, meet the life of the locals, olympia & wine tasting, olympia & olive oil tasting, olympia hiking, kotor off-road adventure, markovic winery and the visit to budva old town, transfer to kourouta beach, kotor walking tour, kotor hike and bike, highlights of montenegro, a cultural journey through doha, discover katara village with high tea, discover the desert and inland sea, discover b12 beach club, discover panoramic doha with spice mixing experience (ae), discover msheireb museum, downtown and souq waqif, discover doha by sea, discover qatar museums, dune drive safari, discover doha your way hd, dhow cruise in fjords, 4×4 extreme adventure tour, mosques, museums and mezze in manama, bahrain grand tour, explore khasab by land and sea, karting experience, jeep safari to jebel harim, snorkelling at arabian fjords, panoramic city tour, pearling pathway tour, jeep and dhow experience, zipline adventure experience, island nature reserve 4×4, island nature reserve tour in safari game viewer truck, beach tour – the art hotel and resort amwaj, mini island tour and archeological sites, dubai grand tour, floating mats (s.o.b), water bike experience (s.o.b), swan boat experience 4 seater (40 mins) (s.o.b), new wonders of dubai, red shark waterbike (s.o.b), new and old dubai, dubai sand dune adventure with sunset in the desert and night show, tour of burj khalifa and dubai mall (afternoon), tour of burj khalifa and dubai mall (morning), grand tour of abu dhabi, ferrari world theme park, abu dhabi sightseeing & tea hd, beach club and experience, icons of abu dhabi, historic dubrovnik, walking dubrovnik, walking dubrovnik city walls, classic cairo, ancient ephesus and the terrace houses, house of virgin mary & ancient ephesus, classical athens and its monuments, the acropolis & the new acropolis museum, athens monuments and the acropolis, athens tour and the new acropolis museum, ancient ephesus, haifa city tour, masada/dead sea, nazareth & galilee, highlights of alexandria, landmarks of alexandria, perge and aspendos, antalya city tour, the crystal clear waters of elounda and spinalonga, cretan jeep safari, river trekking tour, a delectable day in crete, ancient temple of poseidon and cape sounion, izmir city tour, off the beaten track – 4×4 adventure, the essence of santorini, transfer to sahara beach, transfer to perissa beach, transfer to ammoudara beach, transfer to paradise beach, transfer to kalafatis beach, mykonos magic, transfer to tsambika beach, beauty of butterflies and ancient kameiros, capturing the true spirit of chora, transfer to agriolivadi beach, sacred delos & rhenia island, adventure, spills and thrills at adaland water park, greek wine and holy water: philippi and beyond, kavala up close: walk through the ages, nestos river and the colours of xanthi, knossos palace & cretan landscapes, thessaloniki food on foot, rich history of a famous greek winery, a taste of wine and tradition, music, myths and history, pelion spoon sweets, making pottery fit for the gods, a delicious taste of ‘liquid gold’, home cooking and hospitality in mykonos, the secrets of pelion cuisine, hiking to the ultimate beauty of oia, a kayak adventure discovering pirate coves, the beautiful art of mosaic making, trek to the heart and soul of milos, milos food on foot, sea kayaking and the mesmerising milos coastline, a geological wonder 4×4 adventure, limassol omodos – oenoyi winery, ancient civilisations with an expert archaeologist, thrill of the ride buggy safari, whirling dervishes & dinner, turkish baklava making, gents anatolian well-being (berber and hammam), painting on water: turkish ebru art, heraklion food on foot, athens food on foot, jaffa & tel aviv, jaffa & tel aviv, jerusalem & bethlehem, unesco churches in solea region – 2 churches, panoramic limassol curium, paphos, the city of unesco, experience the tradition, curium, the wine village of omodos and limassol, house of virgin mary & ancient ephesus, ancient ephesus through the ages hellenistic and roman, ancient ephesus & miletus, turkish baths, ottoman empire and byzantine legacy tour, discover the hidden secrets of sultan ahmet square, bosphorus cruise and the spice market, a taste of istanbul: street food tour, ancient pergamon, legendary troy & the new troy museum, full day trip to troy & assos, volos & mt. pelion, the spectacular rocks & the ‘hanging’ monasteries, legendary moutzouris (mountain train ride), drink and eat like a local, land of alexander the great, the royal tombs of vergina, panoramic thessaloníki, veria (berroia), highlights of thessaloniki, spectacular oia village perched on the caldera rim, cruise to santorini’s islands & volcanoes, akrotiri village excavations, walking tour in the medieval city of rhodes, acropolis of lindos and the citadel of the knights, philerimos church and the palace of the knights, traditional feast in patmos, religious visit to st john’s monastery – grotto of apocalypse, corinth canal, ancient corinth, bema of st. paul, panoramic athens and corinth canal crossing, experience the cretan countryside and lifestyle, venetian heraklion and the unique archaeological museum, knossos palace and the archaeological museum, minoan palace of knossos – 1st european civilisation, the palace of knossos & cosmopolitan heraklion, kavala – prophets, legends and the heroes of philippi, nostalgic milos cruise – land & sea, step back in time, step back in time – (religious), the amazing beaches tour, cycladic tastes (food on foot), delos – sacred island & apollo sanctuary, mykonian countryside tour with chora and little venice, mykonian dinner, countryside tour with chora and the grotto of apocalypse, an inclusive experience.

COMPLIMENTARY DINING

We know the best recipes are the ones passed down between generations. And we love to share that with our guests. So onboard a Celestyal cruise, you can expect freshly prepared by our local chefs – morning, noon and night!

SELECT DRINKS WITH MEALS

Sit down to an authentic evening meal and enjoy specially selected drinks to go with it. Our dedicated hospitality team know how to make every meal a delicious experience so let them take your taste buds away.

VIBRANT ENTERTAINMENT

Immersing our guests in the local way of life is at the heart of the Celestyal experience. Take Greek dancing lessons from a pro and take the Mediterranean culture home with you. Enjoy a drink with your group as you watch the stars glitter off the Aegean with our front-seat, panoramic horizon bar views. And don’t miss the colour and magic of Cirque Fantastic!

£65 SHOREX EXCURSION DISCOUNT

We can’t wait to welcome you to our beautiful blue world, so when you step foot on the sands of Greece and the Eastern Med, our endless excursion options are designed to take you to the heart of our homeland. As standard, all of our guests enjoy a £65 excursion discount to put towards any of our immersive experiences.

PORT CHARGES & GRATUITIES

With all charges, port expenses and gratuities included in our fares, you can relax knowing we’ve got you covered. We’ll bring your next adventure to you, with no additional fees

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