Explora JourneysEP20261105ISTAYT
A Journey of Eastern Echoes & Luminous Coastlines
Date
2026-11-05
Duration
9 nights
Departure Port
Istanbul
Turkey
Arrival Port
Antalya
Turkey
Rating
—
Theme
—
Date
2026-11-05
Duration
9 nights
Departure Port
Istanbul
Turkey
Arrival Port
Antalya
Turkey
Rating
—
Theme
—
Explora Journeys
2024
—
63,900 GT
922
461
700
813 m
32 m
18 knots
No
For more than fifteen centuries, Istanbul has been the pivot upon which empires turned — Byzantium, Constantinople, the Ottoman capital — and nowhere else on earth compresses so much history into a single horizon. The Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace form an incomparable trinity of architectural genius along the Golden Horn; the Grand Bazaar's four thousand shops offer a sensory immersion unlike any other marketplace. Must-dos include a Bosphorus sunset cruise and a meal of mezze along the waterfront at Karaköy. Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer the most gracious climate for this inexhaustible city.
Kepez is a small Turkish port on the Gulf of Antalya providing access to extraordinary ancient sites including the harbor city of Phaselis and the eternal flames of the Chimaera at Olympos. Must-dos include exploring Phaselis's ruins among pine forests, hiking to the burning rocks at Chimaera, and riding the cable car up Mount Olympos. April through June and September-November offer ideal temperatures for site exploration.
Kuşadası owes its place on the world's cruise itineraries to one extraordinary proximity: the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the greatest metropolises of the Greco-Roman world, lies just seventeen kilometres from the port. Ephesus — with its two-kilometre marble colonnade, the Library of Celsus, and the Temple of Artemis (one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World) — demands at least half a day of unhurried exploration. The House of the Virgin Mary, a pilgrimage site believed to be where Mary spent her final years, adds a profound spiritual dimension. Kuşadası itself is a lively Aegean resort; the season runs April through October, with May and September offering ideal temperatures and smaller 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.
Bodrum is the site of ancient Halicarnassus and one of the Seven Wonders, now a whitewashed Aegean resort town where the Knights Hospitaller castle houses the world's finest underwater archaeology museum. Visit June or September via Explora Journeys or Virgin Voyages for peninsula village dining, Bronze Age shipwreck treasures, and Turkey's most seductive balance of ancient heritage and contemporary Mediterranean sophistication.
Marmaris is a Turkish Aegean resort town set in a pine-forested bay, offering an Ottoman castle, vibrant bazaar, and gateway access to the unspoiled Datca Peninsula and the Lycian rock tombs of Dalyan. Must-dos include feasting on meze and grilled fish, exploring the Grand Bazaar, and taking a boat trip to the sea-turtle nesting beach at Iztuzu. May through October offers warm Mediterranean weather and clear waters.
Limassol is Cyprus's cosmopolitan coastal city, where a Crusader castle, revitalized old town, and spectacular modern waterfront meet the world's oldest named wine tradition in the nearby Troodos foothills. Visit year-round for the medieval heritage, Commandaria wine villages, and excursions to the ancient theatre of Kourion perched above the Mediterranean.
Antalya is the Turkish Riviera's finest city, combining a beautifully preserved Ottoman old town, ancient Roman ruins, and a dramatic clifftop setting above the Mediterranean. Must-dos include wandering the lanes of Kaleiçi, visiting the perfectly preserved Roman theater at Aspendos, and savoring an expansive Turkish breakfast overlooking the sea. Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–November) offer the ideal blend of warm weather and manageable crowds for exploring this two-thousand-year-old city.
Day 1
For more than fifteen centuries, Istanbul has been the pivot upon which empires turned — Byzantium, Constantinople, the Ottoman capital — and nowhere else on earth compresses so much history into a single horizon. The Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace form an incomparable trinity of architectural genius along the Golden Horn; the Grand Bazaar's four thousand shops offer a sensory immersion unlike any other marketplace. Must-dos include a Bosphorus sunset cruise and a meal of mezze along the waterfront at Karaköy. Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer the most gracious climate for this inexhaustible city.
Day 3
Kepez is a small Turkish port on the Gulf of Antalya providing access to extraordinary ancient sites including the harbor city of Phaselis and the eternal flames of the Chimaera at Olympos. Must-dos include exploring Phaselis's ruins among pine forests, hiking to the burning rocks at Chimaera, and riding the cable car up Mount Olympos. April through June and September-November offer ideal temperatures for site exploration.
Day 4
Kuşadası owes its place on the world's cruise itineraries to one extraordinary proximity: the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the greatest metropolises of the Greco-Roman world, lies just seventeen kilometres from the port. Ephesus — with its two-kilometre marble colonnade, the Library of Celsus, and the Temple of Artemis (one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World) — demands at least half a day of unhurried exploration. The House of the Virgin Mary, a pilgrimage site believed to be where Mary spent her final years, adds a profound spiritual dimension. Kuşadası itself is a lively Aegean resort; the season runs April through October, with May and September offering ideal temperatures and smaller crowds.
Day 5
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 6
Bodrum is the site of ancient Halicarnassus and one of the Seven Wonders, now a whitewashed Aegean resort town where the Knights Hospitaller castle houses the world's finest underwater archaeology museum. Visit June or September via Explora Journeys or Virgin Voyages for peninsula village dining, Bronze Age shipwreck treasures, and Turkey's most seductive balance of ancient heritage and contemporary Mediterranean sophistication.
Day 7
Marmaris is a Turkish Aegean resort town set in a pine-forested bay, offering an Ottoman castle, vibrant bazaar, and gateway access to the unspoiled Datca Peninsula and the Lycian rock tombs of Dalyan. Must-dos include feasting on meze and grilled fish, exploring the Grand Bazaar, and taking a boat trip to the sea-turtle nesting beach at Iztuzu. May through October offers warm Mediterranean weather and clear waters.
Day 8
Day 9
Limassol is Cyprus's cosmopolitan coastal city, where a Crusader castle, revitalized old town, and spectacular modern waterfront meet the world's oldest named wine tradition in the nearby Troodos foothills. Visit year-round for the medieval heritage, Commandaria wine villages, and excursions to the ancient theatre of Kourion perched above the Mediterranean.
Day 10
Antalya is the Turkish Riviera's finest city, combining a beautifully preserved Ottoman old town, ancient Roman ruins, and a dramatic clifftop setting above the Mediterranean. Must-dos include wandering the lanes of Kaleiçi, visiting the perfectly preserved Roman theater at Aspendos, and savoring an expansive Turkish breakfast overlooking the sea. Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–November) offer the ideal blend of warm weather and manageable crowds for exploring this two-thousand-year-old city.
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