GREEK ISLANDS - A VOYAGE FROM ATHENS TO ISTANBUL
This leisurely voyage through the heart of the Aegean is the perfect introduction to all that this fabled sea, which Homer famously described as "wine-dark,' has to offer. And early September is the perfect time of year to visit.
Ancient sites and monuments—the Parthenon, Minoan Knossos, and medieval Rhodes, all of them UNESCO World Heritage Sites—share the landscape with the homes of present-day farmers in the villages on Naxos and Chios. Great Byzantine churches and castles—including the UNESCO Site at Nea Moni—exist in the same space as the painted townhouses of quaint island ports like Rethymno and Mytilene. This is truly an experience not to be missed.
Adding to the appeal of this journey is our ship. Built in Finland and launched in early 2023, Diana is a state-of-the-art, new-generation expedition cruise ship that accommodates just 192 guests in superb surroundings that include spacious staterooms and suites and elegant lounges. Diana is also equipped with the latest environment-friendly technology.
Program Highlights
- Visit major archaeological sites & museums in the Aegean with Professor Tyler Jo Smith.
- Explore the beautiful Greek islands of Naxos, Crete, Rhodes, Samos, Chios and Lesvos.
- Discover the splendors of Athens, including the Agora & Acropolis and their museums.
- Learn the rich history of the many UNESCO World Heritage Sites you will visit throughout the voyage.
Tyler Jo is a professor in the McIntire Department of Art and the director of the Interdisciplinary Archaeology Program at UVA. Her current research focuses on the relationship between art and religion in the ancient Greek and Roman worlds. She is the author of Komast Dancers in Archaic Greek Art (Oxford 2010), Religion of Archaic and Classical Greece (UPenn 2021), and co-editor of the Blackwell Companion to Greek Art (2012). She is the recipient of numerous awards and honors for both teaching and research, including fellowships from Harvard University at the Center for Hellenic Studies in Washington DC and the Institute of Classical Studies in London, and grants from the Mediterranean Archaeological Trust and the Center for International Studies, UVA. During the academic year 2018-2019, she was appointed Elizabeth A. Whitehead Professor at the American School of Classical Studies at Athens, where she also represents UVA as a member of the Managing Committee. She received the Z Society Distinguished Faculty Award for 2021 and the Jefferson Scholars Foundation Excellence in Teaching Award for 2022. As a field archaeologist, Tyler Jo has participated on projects in Israel, Greece, Sicily, Turkey, and England.
Day 2 - Monday, September 8
Athens, Greece
Arrive in Athens and transfer to the Athens Capital Hotel (or similar). Join Professor Tyler Jo Smith and fellow travelers this evening for a welcome dinner. (D)
Day 3 - Tuesday, September 9
Athens | Embark
This morning, explore the Agora, the civic and commercial center of ancient Athens. Discover the well-preserved 5th-century BC Temple of Hephaistos and visit the Agora Museum, housed in the magnificently reconstructed Stoa of Attalus. After lunch at a local restaurant, tour the Acropolis, site of the incomparable Parthenon, representing, along with the other temples on site, the highest achievement of Classical architecture and art. Also visit the Acropolis Museum before transferring to Piraeus to embark Diana and set sail. (B,L,D)
Day 4 - Wednesday, September 10
Naxos
In the morning, explore Naxos’s main town, whose narrow alleyways surround the Kastro, a fortress built by the Venetians, who held the island from 1207 to 1537. Visit the Della Rocca-Barozzi Venetian Museum and the archaeological area of Mitropolis, featuring fragments of a Mycenaean city dating to the 13th century BC, and the remains of an unfinished 6th-century BC temple, including its iconic monumental gate. After lunch, travel inland to the Temple of Demeter, constructed in the 6th century BC, and spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure to explore Naxos town on your own. (B,L,D)
Day 5 - Thursday, September 11
Souda Bay | Chania, Crete
Chania is perhaps Crete’s most picturesque town. The historic quarter, largely built by the Venetians, is filled with sunny squares and old neighborhoods where Venetians, Turks, and Sephardic Jews once lived. The town also boasts a new Archaeological Museum, which is well worth the visit. Spend the afternoon at leisure to discover lovely Chania on your own or travel eastward along Crete's north coast to Rethymno, one of Greece’s best-preserved medieval towns, known for its architecture dating to the times when Crete was under Venetian and Ottoman rule. (B,L,D)
Day 6 - Friday, September 12
Agios Nikolaos, Crete
The port of Aghios Nikolaos is your gateway to the magnificent palace of Knossos, the largest and most impressive Minoan palace in Crete. This UNESCO World Heritage Site consists of a maze of rooms, passages, and stairways that hint at the origins of the story of the labyrinth, home of the mythological Minotaur, half-man, half-bull. After your guided tour of the palace, continue to nearby Heraklion, where a lunch of traditional Cretan cuisine is followed by a visit to the exquisite Heraklion Museum, whose eye-opening exhibits reinforce the impression gained at Knossos of the brilliance and refinement of Minoan civilization. (B,L,D)
Day 7 - Saturday, September 13
Rhodes | Lindos
This morning tour Rhodes, known in ancient times for its Colossus, an enormous bronze statue of the god Helios, which was toppled in a major earthquake. A medieval stronghold, the town was constructed by the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem. Walk through the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along the Street of the Knights, where crusaders lived during their occupation, followed by a visit to the Archaeological Museum. After lunch aboard, travel south along the coast to the village of Lindos, one of the most beautiful villages in the Aegean Sea, its whitewashed houses built around the prominent rock on top of which is the ancient acropolis. (B,L,D)
Day 8 - Sunday, September 14
Samos
One of the wealthiest and most powerful city-states of ancient Greece, Samos reached the pinnacle of its prosperity in the 6th century BC, when it pioneered trade routes stretching from Egypt to Spain, and when magnificent public works were undertaken. Samos was also an intellectual powerhouse—Pythagoras was a native son, Aesop wrote his fables here, and many artists writers and philosophers from throughout Greece were drawn to the island. Visit Samos’s most important monuments, including the remains of the Heraion, an enormous shrine dedicated to the Mother Goddess; the monastery of Panaghia Spyliani; and the Archaeological Museum in Vathy. Time at leisure will be available to enjoy this lovely island on your own. (B,L,D)
Day 9 - Monday, September 15
Chios | Nea Moni | Mastic Villages
Chios, known for its beautiful landscapes, is the legendary birthplace of Homer. This morning, drive to the Monastery of Nea Moni, built in the 11th century in a wooded vale in the center of the island. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nea Moni is decorated with exquisite mosaics and frescoes. Also visit the Byzantine 'ghost town' of Anavatos, abandoned following the Massacre of Chios in 1822. Lunch aboard ship is followed by an excursion to the south of the island, where the aromatic mastic gum that was a favorite at Byzantine and Ottoman courts is produced. Explore two of the most prominent mastic villages: Pyrgi, where the facades of houses are decorated in intricate grey-and-white geometric patterns, and Vessa, whose narrow alleyways are lined with houses that contain architectural elements from the Genoese period. (B,L,D)
Day 10 - Tuesday, September 16
Mytilene, Lesvos
This morning, arrive in Mytilene, the artistic and commercial capital of Lesvos. Visit Agiasos, perhaps the most beautiful hill village on Lesvos, nestled in a wooded valley on the side of Mount Olympos. The village’s narrow cobbled streets are lined with stone houses and artisanal shops. The church of Panaghia, which dates from the 1100s, houses an icon supposedly painted by Luke the Evangelist. Afternoon is at sea, cruising in the northern Aegean and through the narrow Dardanelles to Istanbul. (B,L,D)
Day 11 - Wednesday, September 17
Istanbul | Disembark
After breakfast aboard, disembark Diana and transfer to the airport for flights homeward or stay on for the optional extension in Istanbul. (B)
Optional Istanbul Extension, September 17 – 19, 2025
Day 1 - Wednesday, September 17
Following disembarkation, our morning tour visits Topkapi Palace, the opulent residence of Ottoman Sultans from the 15th to the early 20th century, and the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire. Visit the rooms where the business of state was conducted, as well as the inner sanctum of the Harem, the residential core of the palace. Lunch at a local restaurant is followed by a tour of the superb Archaeological Museum and, time permitting, a visit to the famous Spice Market. Check-in at the Pera Palace Hotel (or similar). The balance of the day is at leisure. (B,L)
Day 2 - Thursday, September 18
Our morning tour visits the Blue Mosque; the Byzantine Hippodrome; Hagia Sophia, built by Emperor Justinian in the 6th century, where on the second floor we view the superb mosaics; and a stop at the Basilica Cistern. Lunch at a local restaurant is followed by a visit to the Grand Bazaar with the balance of the day at leisure. (B,L)
Day 3 - Friday, September 19
Transfer from the hotel to the Istanbul airport for flights home. Pera Palace Hotel (or similar) (B)
Rate per person, double occupancy: $1,420
Single occupancy: $2,290
Extension price includes two nights at the hotel; sightseeing as described; 2 breakfasts and 2 lunches; and transfer from hotel to airport on Sept 19.
Athens Capital Hotel
The new 5-star Athens Capital Hotel is located steps from Constitution Square in the center of Athens’ fashionable Kolonaki district. Facilities include a roof-top bar and swimming pool with views of the Acropolis.
The Swan Hellenic Diana
Built in Finland, and launched in April 2023, Swan Hellenic’s Diana is a new generation expedition cruise ship. Although at 12,100 tons the ship is large enough to accommodate more than 350 passengers, Diana accommodates a maximum of 192 guests in 96 spacious staterooms and balcony suites. The low guest density results in one of the most generous indoor and outdoor space-to-guest ratios among cruise ships.
Featuring the latest advances in technology and engineering, Diana is among the world’s first environmentally responsible ships. Equipped with hybrid engines and a unique water filtration system, Diana leaves a minimal footprint. A complement of 135 experienced European officers and international crew members provide exceptional service.
Diana’s interior spaces exude sophisticated elegance, with most rooms opening to panoramic views of the sea. All staterooms and suites face outside and are equipped with private facilities, climate control, TV, Wi-Fi and USB connections and other amenities. Of the ship’s 96 staterooms, 76 have balconies. Public areas include a spacious observation lounge; a club lounge; a restaurant that accommodates all guests at one seating; an outdoor café/bar that surrounds the heated swimming pool; a wellness area with gym, spa, and sauna with an adjoining outdoor jacuzzi; library; beauty salon; and an infirmary that is attended by a full time doctor and nurse. The ship also features expansive open-deck areas. Two elevators connect all decks. Attentive service is provided on a 24-hour basis. The outstanding cuisine is complemented by fine wines at lunch and dinner.
26 meals: 9 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 9 dinners
Program Fees- Per Person, Double Occupancy
Category E $9,490
Oceanview staterooms with two large oval windows. 206 sq. ft. Deck 4. Staterooms 401–406.
Category D $9,990
Oceanview staterooms with two large oval windows. 206 sq. ft. Deck 4. Staterooms 407–420.
Category C $11,790
Suites with balcony & living room area. 300 sq. ft. Deck 5. Suites 501–506, 536–541.
Category B $12,390
Suites with balcony & living room area. 300 sq. ft. Deck 5. Suites 507–518, 521–529, 531–535.
Category A $12,810
Suites with balcony and living room area. 300 sq. ft. Deck 6. Suites 601–618, 621–635.
Category AA $17,290
Suites with large balcony, separate bedroom & living room. 474 sq. ft. Decks 5 & 6. Suites 519, 520, 619 & 620.
FOR SOLO TRAVELERS - A limited number of cabins are available for single occupants in Category D at 120% of the per-person, double occupancy rate, and in Categories C, B, and A at 150% of the per-person, double occupancy rate.
Price includes:
The rates are all-inclusive. There are no hidden costs and no additional charges such as shore excursions or embarkation and port charges. Other than the international airfare and expenses of a personal nature, all else is included. Specifically, the rates include:
- One night at the Athens Capital Hotel (or similar), with breakfast.
- Welcome dinner in Athens and lunch on the day of embarkation.
- Cruise aboard the Swan Hellenic Diana as described in the itinerary.
- Group airport/hotel/pier transfers overseas at designated times on the indicated arrival and return dates, and handling of luggage.
- Program of lectures and discussions with Professor Tyler Jo Smith.
- Complete program of activities ashore, led by professional local guides, as described in the itinerary.
- All meals aboard the ship, with a selection of wines, beer and soft drinks during lunch and dinner.
- Welcome and farewell cocktail receptions aboard the ship hosted by the captain.
- Open bar with select alcoholic beverages.
- Coffee, including espresso and cappuccino, tea and soft drinks throughout the day and night.
- 24-hour room service.
- Gratuities to the ship's crew, guides, porters and drivers.
- Basic Wi-Fi aboard the ship.
- The services of an experienced Thalassa Journeys Trip Director.
- All local taxes and service charges, including port and embarkation taxes.
- Complete pre-departure material.
PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE: International airfare; travel insurance; expenses of a personal nature; any items not mentioned in the itinerary or the above inclusions.
Ready to register? The best way to do this is by phone so that we can ensure we are meeting all of your needs. Please call us at 866-765-2646. Or, e-mail cavaliertravels@virginia.edu with your contact information and the best time to reach you.
A deposit of $1,500 per person is required to reserve your spot. Final invoicing will be done approximately four months prior to departure. Final payment is due 90 days prior to departure.
Deposits can be made via personal check or charged to a credit card.
Early registration is encouraged as space is limited.
PAYMENT SCHEDULE: A deposit of $1,500 per person is required to reserve your space on the tour. Final payment is due 90 days prior to departure. Payment can be made by personal check or charged to a credit card.
CANCELLATIONS & REFUNDS: All cancellations are subject to a $300 per person administrative fee. Cancellations received 71-90 days prior to departure will be assessed a penalty equal to 50% of the total program cost per person. Cancellations received within 70 days of departure are subject to 100% cancellation penalties. Requests for cancellations must be made in writing. No refunds will be made for any part of this program in which you choose not to participate.
INSURANCE: We strongly recommend the purchase of trip cancellation insurance, which is available for coverage of expenses in conjunction with cancellation due to illness or accident. Baggage insurance is also recommended. In the event that you must cancel your participation in a travel program, trip cancellation insurance may be the only source of reimbursement.
ITINERARY: The itinerary, accommodations and arrangements are subject to change at the discretion of Thalassa Journeys.
RESPONSIBILITY: Please read carefully the following terms and conditions, which constitute the sole, legally enforceable agreements between the traveler and Thalassa Journeys. Thalassa Journeys acts solely as agents for the traveler with respect to all transportation, hotel and other tour arrangements. In that capacity, we exercise all reasonable care possible to ensure the traveler’s safety and satisfaction, but, we neither assume nor bear any responsibility or liability for any injury, death, damage, loss, accident, delay or irregularity arising in connection with the services of any ship, airplane, train, automobile, motor coach, carriage or other conveyance, or the actions of any third-party, involved in carrying the traveler or in affecting these tours. We are not responsible for damages, additional expenses, or any other losses due to cancellation, delay or other changes in air or other services, sickness, weather, strike, war, civil disturbances, acts or threats of terrorism, travel warnings or bans, termination or suspension of war risks or other carrier insurance, quarantine, acts of God or other causes beyond our control. All such losses must be borne by the traveler, and tour rates provide for arrangements only for the time stated. In the event of cancellation, delay or rescheduling mandated by any of the aforesaid causes beyond our control, the traveler shall have the option of accepting in lieu of the original tour such rescheduled tour or other substituted tour(s) as may be offered by us, or else, receiving a refund of as much of such advance tour expenditures as we are able to recover on the traveler’s behalf from carriers, third-party tour vendors, etc., but, we shall not have any obligation or liability to the traveler beyond the foregoing. We reserve the right to make alterations to the tour’s itinerary and to substitute hotels, transportation methods, or lecturers if this is required. We reserve the right to cancel, delay, or reschedule any tour prior to departure, and, so long as this is not due to any of the aforesaid causes beyond our control, the traveler shall be entitled to a full refund of all monies paid to that point if he/she so desires. No refund shall be made for any unused portion of any tour. By forwarding their deposit(s), the traveler certifies that he/she and/or their dependents, minors or others covered thereby do not have any mental, physical or other condition of disability that could create a hazard for them or other travelers. We reserve the right to decline to accept or to decline to retain any person as a member of any tour should such person’s health, condition or actions adversely affect or threaten the welfare or safety of other travelers or impede the tour. Baggage or valuables brought on the tour shall be transported, handled or stored at the traveler’s risk entirely, and we shall bear no liability or responsibility for any damage or other loss thereto. Resolution of any disputes arising hereunder shall be affected exclusively in the state or federal courts presiding in Florida, pursuant to applicable Florida law.
RATES: Tour costs are based upon current airfares, tariffs, and currency values. While we do everything possible to maintain the listed prices, they are subject to change.
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