Explora JourneysEP20260907PIRFSA
An Extended Journey of Cycladic Sunsets & Idyllic Coastlines
Date
2026-09-07
Duration
14 nights
Departure Port
Athens (Piraeus)
Greece
Arrival Port
Venice
Italy
Rating
—
Theme
—
Date
2026-09-07
Duration
14 nights
Departure Port
Athens (Piraeus)
Greece
Arrival Port
Venice
Italy
Rating
—
Theme
—
Explora Journeys
2024
—
63,900 GT
922
461
700
813 m
32 m
18 knots
No
Piraeus, the bustling port city of Athens, is a vibrant blend of ancient history and modern charm, inviting travelers to explore its rich culture. Must-do experiences include savoring traditional Greek dishes at the Varvakeios Agora and embarking on day trips to nearby islands like Symi and Nydri. The best time to visit is during the spring and fall when the weather is pleasant and the tourist crowds are fewer.
Bari, Puglia's ancient capital on the Adriatic, has served as a bridge between Western Europe and the Eastern Mediterranean for over two millennia — a heritage visible in the magnificent Basilica di San Nicola, one of medieval Christendom's most important pilgrimage churches, and in the labyrinthine Bari Vecchia where elderly women still hand-roll orecchiette in the street. The surrounding region of Puglia is among Italy's most compelling culinary destinations: burrata born in Andria, focaccia barese, and the puglian cuisine that has recently attracted international attention as Rome's and Florence's quieter, more authentic cousin. Visit April through June and September through October; the Trulli of Alberobello are forty minutes south.
Nydri is a charming harbor town on Lefkada's sheltered eastern coast, overlooking a chain of Ionian islands that includes the legendary Skorpios, once owned by Aristotle Onassis. Must-dos include dining on grilled octopus at a waterfront taverna, boat-tripping to Porto Katsiki beach and Meganisi's sea caves, and tasting the unique Vertzami white wine. May through October offers warm Mediterranean conditions, with shoulder months providing fewer crowds.
Pylos, Greece is a distinctive port city where deep cultural heritage meets authentic local atmosphere, featured on itineraries by Star Clippers. Must-do experiences include walking the historic center to experience the layered architectural heritage, and seeking out the regional culinary traditions at a locally favored establishment away from the port area. The optimal time to visit is May through September, when mild temperatures and long days favor unhurried exploration.
Snow-white buildings pop in blinding contrast to the cerulean blue of the Aegean in Katapola, where fishermen sip raki in waterside tavernas, and the perfume of citrus drifts down cobbled streets. Hike between sleepy Cycladic villages and Mycenaean ruins as wild goats graze on sun-baked hillsides and stop to explore pretty chapels where locals tell tales of Greek myths and legends. Below the waves, rainbow-coloured marine life darts through crystalline waters punctuated by sea caves and rusting wrecks. Succumb to sunset in charming Chora, the island capital of Amorgos.
Mykonos is the Aegean at its most seductive — a labyrinth of bougainvillea-draped whitewashed alleys designed to disorient pirates (and occasionally visitors) leading to Kástro, the medieval hilltop quarter overlooking Little Venice, where balconied houses hang directly above the sea. The island's famous windmills, perched on a ridge above the old harbour, are best photographed at golden hour as pelicans patrol the waterfront below. Visit the sacred archaeological island of Delos — a 30-minute boat crossing — for one of the most significant ancient sites in the Greek world. May, June, and September offer the perfect balance of warmth, light, and bearable crowds.
Piraeus, the bustling port city of Athens, is a vibrant blend of ancient history and modern charm, inviting travelers to explore its rich culture. Must-do experiences include savoring traditional Greek dishes at the Varvakeios Agora and embarking on day trips to nearby islands like Symi and Nydri. The best time to visit is during the spring and fall when the weather is pleasant and the tourist crowds are fewer.
Paros is the Cycladic island of luminous marble — the stone that sculpted the Venus de Milo — where ancient quarries, one of Greece's oldest Byzantine churches, and the fishing village of Naoussa offer the authentic Aegean experience that Santorini and Mykonos have traded for fame. Visit May through October via Ponant or Explora Journeys for a Cycladic island that travelers discover second but return to for life.
Rhodes, Greece's resplendent Dodecanese jewel, merges a UNESCO-listed Medieval Old Town built by the Knights of St. John with sun-soaked Aegean beauty just seven miles from the Turkish coast. Wander the Street of the Knights before tasting *pitaroudia* fritters and local Athiri wine at an Old Town taverna, then take a catamaran to the neoclassical harbor of Symi. The island basks in over 300 days of sunshine annually, with April through June and September through October offering ideal temperatures for exploration without the peak-summer crowds.
Where Homer placed the island of the Phaeacians and four centuries of Venetian rule left their most enduring Mediterranean legacy, Corfu is a singular island of extraordinary historical depth and natural beauty. The UNESCO-listed Old Town — its narrow Kantounia alleyways, the elegant Liston arcade, and twin Venetian fortresses — is the finest preserved Venetian streetscape in Greece. Beyond the town, secret coves, olive groves of immense antiquity, and mountain villages offer weeks of unhurried discovery. May through June and September offer perfect conditions: warm sea temperatures, clear skies, and the island before or after its summer crescendo.
Hvar port, with its rich history and stunning coastal charm, is a must-visit destination in Croatia. Don't miss indulging in local specialties like pašticada and the breathtaking views from the fortress. The best time to visit is during the late spring or early fall when the weather is delightful and the crowds are manageable.
Rijeka is Croatia's vibrant third city and 2020 European Capital of Culture, where Habsburg waterfront architecture, a thriving arts scene, and one of Europe's most exuberant carnivals create an authentic alternative to the Dalmatian tourist trail. Visit from April through October for the magnificent Korzo promenade, Trsat Castle views, and gateway access to the Kvarner islands.
Venice, a historic port city, captivates with its unique canals and rich cultural heritage. Must-do experiences include visiting the iconic Basilica di San Marco and indulging in local delicacies like risotto al nero di seppia. The best time to visit is during the mild, vibrant spring months when the city comes alive with festivals and outdoor activities.
Day 1
Piraeus, the bustling port city of Athens, is a vibrant blend of ancient history and modern charm, inviting travelers to explore its rich culture. Must-do experiences include savoring traditional Greek dishes at the Varvakeios Agora and embarking on day trips to nearby islands like Symi and Nydri. The best time to visit is during the spring and fall when the weather is pleasant and the tourist crowds are fewer.
Day 2
Day 3
Bari, Puglia's ancient capital on the Adriatic, has served as a bridge between Western Europe and the Eastern Mediterranean for over two millennia — a heritage visible in the magnificent Basilica di San Nicola, one of medieval Christendom's most important pilgrimage churches, and in the labyrinthine Bari Vecchia where elderly women still hand-roll orecchiette in the street. The surrounding region of Puglia is among Italy's most compelling culinary destinations: burrata born in Andria, focaccia barese, and the puglian cuisine that has recently attracted international attention as Rome's and Florence's quieter, more authentic cousin. Visit April through June and September through October; the Trulli of Alberobello are forty minutes south.
Day 4
Nydri is a charming harbor town on Lefkada's sheltered eastern coast, overlooking a chain of Ionian islands that includes the legendary Skorpios, once owned by Aristotle Onassis. Must-dos include dining on grilled octopus at a waterfront taverna, boat-tripping to Porto Katsiki beach and Meganisi's sea caves, and tasting the unique Vertzami white wine. May through October offers warm Mediterranean conditions, with shoulder months providing fewer crowds.
Day 5
Pylos, Greece is a distinctive port city where deep cultural heritage meets authentic local atmosphere, featured on itineraries by Star Clippers. Must-do experiences include walking the historic center to experience the layered architectural heritage, and seeking out the regional culinary traditions at a locally favored establishment away from the port area. The optimal time to visit is May through September, when mild temperatures and long days favor unhurried exploration.
Day 6
Snow-white buildings pop in blinding contrast to the cerulean blue of the Aegean in Katapola, where fishermen sip raki in waterside tavernas, and the perfume of citrus drifts down cobbled streets. Hike between sleepy Cycladic villages and Mycenaean ruins as wild goats graze on sun-baked hillsides and stop to explore pretty chapels where locals tell tales of Greek myths and legends. Below the waves, rainbow-coloured marine life darts through crystalline waters punctuated by sea caves and rusting wrecks. Succumb to sunset in charming Chora, the island capital of Amorgos.
Day 7
Mykonos is the Aegean at its most seductive — a labyrinth of bougainvillea-draped whitewashed alleys designed to disorient pirates (and occasionally visitors) leading to Kástro, the medieval hilltop quarter overlooking Little Venice, where balconied houses hang directly above the sea. The island's famous windmills, perched on a ridge above the old harbour, are best photographed at golden hour as pelicans patrol the waterfront below. Visit the sacred archaeological island of Delos — a 30-minute boat crossing — for one of the most significant ancient sites in the Greek world. May, June, and September offer the perfect balance of warmth, light, and bearable crowds.
Day 8
Piraeus, the bustling port city of Athens, is a vibrant blend of ancient history and modern charm, inviting travelers to explore its rich culture. Must-do experiences include savoring traditional Greek dishes at the Varvakeios Agora and embarking on day trips to nearby islands like Symi and Nydri. The best time to visit is during the spring and fall when the weather is pleasant and the tourist crowds are fewer.
Day 9
Paros is the Cycladic island of luminous marble — the stone that sculpted the Venus de Milo — where ancient quarries, one of Greece's oldest Byzantine churches, and the fishing village of Naoussa offer the authentic Aegean experience that Santorini and Mykonos have traded for fame. Visit May through October via Ponant or Explora Journeys for a Cycladic island that travelers discover second but return to for life.
Day 10
Rhodes, Greece's resplendent Dodecanese jewel, merges a UNESCO-listed Medieval Old Town built by the Knights of St. John with sun-soaked Aegean beauty just seven miles from the Turkish coast. Wander the Street of the Knights before tasting *pitaroudia* fritters and local Athiri wine at an Old Town taverna, then take a catamaran to the neoclassical harbor of Symi. The island basks in over 300 days of sunshine annually, with April through June and September through October offering ideal temperatures for exploration without the peak-summer crowds.
Day 11
Day 12
Where Homer placed the island of the Phaeacians and four centuries of Venetian rule left their most enduring Mediterranean legacy, Corfu is a singular island of extraordinary historical depth and natural beauty. The UNESCO-listed Old Town — its narrow Kantounia alleyways, the elegant Liston arcade, and twin Venetian fortresses — is the finest preserved Venetian streetscape in Greece. Beyond the town, secret coves, olive groves of immense antiquity, and mountain villages offer weeks of unhurried discovery. May through June and September offer perfect conditions: warm sea temperatures, clear skies, and the island before or after its summer crescendo.
Day 13
Hvar port, with its rich history and stunning coastal charm, is a must-visit destination in Croatia. Don't miss indulging in local specialties like pašticada and the breathtaking views from the fortress. The best time to visit is during the late spring or early fall when the weather is delightful and the crowds are manageable.
Day 14
Rijeka is Croatia's vibrant third city and 2020 European Capital of Culture, where Habsburg waterfront architecture, a thriving arts scene, and one of Europe's most exuberant carnivals create an authentic alternative to the Dalmatian tourist trail. Visit from April through October for the magnificent Korzo promenade, Trsat Castle views, and gateway access to the Kvarner islands.
Day 15
Venice, a historic port city, captivates with its unique canals and rich cultural heritage. Must-do experiences include visiting the iconic Basilica di San Marco and indulging in local delicacies like risotto al nero di seppia. The best time to visit is during the mild, vibrant spring months when the city comes alive with festivals and outdoor activities.
For a true sense of being at home at sea, experience the sweeping decks and effortlessly elegant spaces of our Ocean Residences. Enjoy perfect views of the oceans from your terrace’s dining area and private outdoor whirlpool, and make the most of our dedicated butler service.
FEATURES
Private butler services
Oversized windows with views of the sea
Separate living, dining and sleeping areas
Abundant lounge area
Dining table for 6 guests
Spacious work desk area
Private bar, replenished according to the guests’ preferences
Espresso machine and tea maker with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas
Laptop-size safe
OUTDOOR
Panoramic oceanfront terrace, with private outdoor whirlpool, a dining table and sun loungers
BEDROOM
Bespoke king-sized bed sleep system
Large double sofa bed
Down duvets and pillows
Extensive pillow selection
Oversized walk-in wardrobe with vanity area
BATHROOM
Luxurious marble bathroom with a bathtub and a separate walk-in shower room
Plush bathrobes and slippers
Custom bath toiletries and amenities
Hairdryer and illuminated make-up/shaving mirror
For a true sense of being at home at sea, experience the sweeping decks and effortlessly elegant spaces of our Ocean Residences. Enjoy perfect views of the oceans from your terrace’s dining area and private outdoor whirlpool, and make the most of our dedicated butler service.
FEATURES
Private butler services
Oversized windows with views of the sea
Separate living, dining and sleeping areas
Abundant lounge area
Dining table for 6 guests
Spacious work desk area
Private bar, replenished according to the guests’ preferences
Espresso machine and tea maker with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas
Laptop-size safe
OUTDOOR
Panoramic oceanfront terrace, with private outdoor whirlpool, a dining table and sun loungers
BEDROOM
Bespoke king-sized bed sleep system
Large double sofa bed
Down duvets and pillows
Extensive pillow selection
Oversized walk-in wardrobe with vanity area
BATHROOM
Luxurious marble bathroom with a bathtub and a separate walk-in shower room
Plush bathrobes and slippers
Custom bath toiletries and amenities
Hairdryer and illuminated make-up/shaving mirror
The Ocean Penthouses offer a luxurious, spacious retreat with ocean-front floor-to-ceiling windows and expansive terraces to unwind and relax. And with a characterful private dining area for four, and a calm, comfortable place to work, you can entertain with others or spend time to yourself as you see fit.
FEATURES
Oversized floor-to-ceiling windows helping you feel closer to the sea
Spacious lounge area
Dining table for 4 guests
Spacious work desk area
Private refrigerated mini-bar, replenished according to the guests’ preferences
Espresso machine and tea maker with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas
Safe accommodating most tablets and laptops
OUTDOOR
Spacious oceanfront terrace with a dining area. Comfortable daybeds or sun loungers for relaxation
BEDROOM
Bespoke queen-sized bed or twin beds sleep system
Some suites with a double sofa bed
Down duvets and pillows
Extensive pillow selection
Spacious walk-in wardrobe with vanity area
BATHROOM
Spacious bathroom with a walk-in shower
Plush bathrobes and slippers
Custom bath toiletries and amenities
Hairdryer and illuminated make-up/shaving mirror
Some suites with bathtubs and ADA facilities
The Ocean Penthouses offer a luxurious, spacious retreat with ocean-front floor-to-ceiling windows and expansive terraces to unwind and relax. And with a characterful private dining area for four, and a calm, comfortable place to work, you can entertain with others or spend time to yourself as you see fit.
FEATURES
Oversized floor-to-ceiling windows helping you feel closer to the sea
Separate living, dining and sleeping areas
Spacious lounge area
Dining table for 4 guests
Spacious work desk area
Private refrigerated mini-bar, replenished according to the guests’ preferences
Espresso machine and tea maker with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas
Safe accommodating most tablets and laptops
OUTDOOR
Spacious oceanfront terrace with a dining area. Comfortable daybeds or sun loungers for relaxation
BEDROOM
Bespoke queen-sized bed or twin beds sleep system
Large double sofa bed
Down duvets and pillows
Extensive pillow selection
Spacious walk-in wardrobe with vanity area
BATHROOM
Spacious bathroom with a walk-in shower
Plush bathrobes and slippers
Custom bath toiletries and amenities
Hairdryer and illuminated make-up/shaving mirror
Some suites with bathtubs and accesible facilities
Our Ocean Grand Terrace Suites features a larger oceanfront terrace of 11 sqm, featuring an outdoor dining area and comfortable sunbeds for relaxation.
All suites include elegant lounge areas, private refrigerated mini bar – replenished according to the guests’ preferences, espresso machine and tea maker with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas. All suites feature spacious walk-in wardrobes with a seated vanity area."
FEATURES
Oversized floor-to-ceiling windows helping you feel closer to the sea. Lounge area with flexible coffee/dining table
Private refrigerated mini-bar, replenished according to the guests’ preferences
Espresso machine and tea maker with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas
Safe accommodating most tablets and laptops
OUTDOOR
Spacious oceanfront terrace with a dining area
Comfortable sunbeds for relaxation
BEDROOM
Bespoke queen-sized bed or twin beds sleep system
Down duvets and pillows
Extensive pillow selection
Spacious walk-in wardrobe with vanity area
BATHROOM
Spacious bathroom with a walk-in shower
Plush bathrobes and slippers
Custom bath toiletries and amenities
Hairdryer and illuminated make-up/shaving mirror
Some suites with bathtubs and accessible features
Our Ocean Terrace Suites elegantly combine space - at 35 sqm they are amongst the largest in the category - and light, as they all have floor-to-ceiling windows and private sun terraces, to help you truly relax and feel closer to the ocean that carries you on your journey.
All suites include elegant lounge areas, private refrigerated mini bar – replenished according to the guests’ preferences, espresso machine and tea maker with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas. All suites feature spacious walk-in wardrobes with a seated vanity area."
FEATURES
Oversized floor-to-ceiling windows helping you feel closer to the sea. Lounge area with flexible coffee/dining table
Private refrigerated mini-bar, replenished according to the guests’ preferences
Espresso machine and tea maker with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas
Safe accommodating most tablets and laptops
OUTDOOR
Spacious ocean-front terrace with a dining area. Comfortable daybed for relaxation
BEDROOM
Bespoke queen-sized bed or twin beds sleep system
Down duvets and pillows
Extensive pillow selection
Spacious walk-in wardrobe with vanity area
BATHROOM
Spacious bathroom with a walk-in shower
Plush bathrobes and slippers
Custom bath toiletries and amenities
Hairdryer and illuminated make-up/shaving mirror
The iconic Owner’s Residence creates the largest accommodation on-board, with multiple harmonious spaces in which to relax, entertain and unwind. Stand in awe of the panoramic ocean views from your private outdoor terrace - featuring a spacious whirlpool - and enjoy intuitive, intelligent service with a dedicated private butler.
FEATURES
Dedicated private butler services
Oversized floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the sea
Separate living, dining and sleeping areas
Abundant lounge area with fireplace
Dining table for 8 guests
Spacious work desk area
Private bar, replenished according to the guests’ preferences
Espresso machine and tea maker with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas
Laptop-size safe
Guest lavatory and powder room
Butler pantry area
OUTDOOR
Panoramic oceanfront terrace covering the full ship’s width, with a private outdoor large whirlpool, day beds, a dining table, lounge area, shower and sun loungers
BEDROOM
Bespoke king-sized bed sleep system
Large double sofa bed
Down duvets and pillows
Extensive pillow selection
Oversized dressing room
BATHROOM
Luxurious marble double vanity bathroom
Spacious bathtub and separate shower room
Private steam room
Plush bathrobes and slippers
Custom bath toiletries and amenities
Hairdryer and illuminated make-up/shaving mirror
The Ocean Penthouses offer a luxurious, spacious retreat with ocean-front floor-to-ceiling windows and expansive terraces to unwind and relax. And with a characterful private dining area for four, and a calm, comfortable place to work, you can entertain with others or spend time to yourself as you see fit.
FEATURES
Oversized floor-to-ceiling windows helping you feel closer to the sea
Spacious lounge area
Dining table for 4 guests
Spacious work desk area
Private refrigerated mini-bar, replenished according to the guests’ preferences
Espresso machine and tea maker with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas
Safe accommodating most tablets and laptops
OUTDOOR
Spacious oceanfront terrace with a dining area. Comfortable daybeds or sun loungers for relaxation
BEDROOM
Bespoke queen-sized bed or twin beds sleep system
Down duvets and pillows
Extensive pillow selection
Spacious walk-in wardrobe with vanity area
BATHROOM
Spacious bathroom with a walk-in shower
Plush bathrobes and slippers
Custom bath toiletries and amenities
Hairdryer and illuminated make-up/shaving mirror
The Ocean Penthouses offer a luxurious, spacious retreat with ocean-front floor-to-ceiling windows and expansive terraces to unwind and relax. And with a characterful private dining area for four, and a calm, comfortable place to work, you can entertain with others or spend time to yourself as you see fit.
FEATURES
Oversized floor-to-ceiling windows helping you feel closer to the sea
Spacious lounge area
Dining table for 4 guests
Spacious work desk area
Private refrigerated mini-bar, replenished according to the guests’ preferences
Espresso machine and tea maker with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas
Safe accommodating most tablets and laptops
OUTDOOR
Spacious oceanfront terrace with a dining area. Comfortable daybeds or sun loungers for relaxation
BEDROOM
Bespoke queen-sized bed or twin beds sleep system
Some suites with a double sofa bed
Down duvets and pillows
Extensive pillow selection
Spacious walk-in wardrobe with vanity area
BATHROOM
Spacious bathroom with a walk-in shower
Plush bathrobes and slippers
Custom bath toiletries and amenities
Hairdryer and illuminated make-up/shaving mirror
For a true sense of being at home at sea, experience the sweeping decks and effortlessly elegant spaces of our Ocean Residences. Enjoy perfect views of the oceans from your terrace’s dining area and private outdoor whirlpool, and make the most of our dedicated butler service.
FEATURES
Private butler services
Oversized floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the sea
Separate living, dining and sleeping areas
Spacious lounge area
Dining table for 4 guests
Spacious work desk area
Private refrigerated mini-bar, replenished according to the guests’ preferences
Espresso machine and tea maker with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas
Laptop-size safe
OUTDOOR
Spacious oceanfront terrace with private outdoor whirlpool, a dining table and sun loungers
BEDROOM
Bespoke king-sized bed sleep system
Large double sofa bed
Down duvets and pillows
Extensive pillow selection
Oversized walk-in wardrobe with vanity area
BATHROOM
Luxurious marble bathroom with a bathtub and a separate walk-in shower room
Plush bathrobes and slippers
Custom bath toiletries and amenities
Hairdryer and illuminated make-up/shaving mirror
For a true sense of being at home at sea, experience the sweeping decks and effortlessly elegant spaces of our Ocean Residences. Enjoy perfect views of the oceans from your terrace’s dining area and private outdoor whirlpool, and make the most of our dedicated butler service.
FEATURES
Private butler services
Oversized floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the sea
Separate living, dining and sleeping areas
Spacious lounge area
Dining table for 6 guests
Spacious work desk area
Private refrigerated mini-bar, replenished according to the guests’ preferences
Espresso machine and tea maker with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas
Laptop-size safe
OUTDOOR
Panoramic oceanfront terrace with private outdoor whirlpool, a dining table and sun loungers
BEDROOM
Bespoke king-sized bed sleep system
Large double sofa bed
Down duvets and pillows
Extensive pillow selection
Oversized walk-in wardrobe with vanity area
BATHROOM
Luxurious marble bathroom with a bathtub and a separate walk-in shower room
Plush bathrobes and slippers
Custom bath toiletries and amenities
Hairdryer and illuminated make-up/shaving mirror
Our cruise specialists can help you find the perfect cabin and the best available pricing.
(+886) 02-2721-7300Contact Advisor