Star Collector: Southern Italy & Northern Greece Odessey

Set sail for hidden havens and Western Civilization's ancient epicenters during this 19-night cruise to idyllic small ports and iconic destinations throughout Italy, Greece and Türkiye. Delve into Pompeii's silent ruins beneath brooding Mount Vesuvius. Cook up Maltese meals under the guidance of a skilled professional chef on the outskirts of historic Valetta. Glide in the glowing azure light of the famed Blue Grotto near Giardini Naxos. Visit the Sanctuary of Apollo--the sacred home of the Oracle Pythia and the epicenter of Greece's Golden Age. Walk in the footsteps of Europe's earliest merchant seafarers in Ephesus. Wander Skopelos' narrow village lanes as you ascend to the hilltop ruins of a Venetian castle overlooking this tiny port.

In this enchanting city the past and present intersect in perfect harmony. Casually intermingled among ancient ruins and majestic cathedrals are the trappings of a modern metropolis: Skyscrapers,cafes, boutiques selling designer footwear. But of course what you seek first in the heart of Rome is its breathtaking history.  A good place to begin is the Vatican, with its Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica. Works by Bernini, Michelangelo, Caravaggio, and Raphael are just a few of those on display, any one of which is worth hours of contemplation. Then the ancient ruins—Colosseum, Forum, Circus Maximus. And of course the Trevi Fountain for the obligatory coins promising your return to the Eternal City.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites abound in Sorrento.   Optional tours will take you to the archaeological areas of Pompeii and Torre Annunziata, or the 4^th century B.C. city of Herculaneum. Perhaps your choice will be a boat ride to Positano, the legendary home of the Sirens. Perched on a terrace on the spectacular Amalfi Coast, Sorrento offers exceptional views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius. 

Take time on shore to explore the beautiful village and enjoy the exclusive access that only a small ship can provide in a port large cruise ships cannot reach.   An optional tour will introduce you to the highlights of the largest of the seven Aeolian Islands, well-known for its mythological connections and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

The Straits of Messina, a narrow passage between Sicily and mainland Italy, are famed for their dramatic scenery, strong currents, and mythological legends. Linking the Tyrrhenian and Ionian Seas, this strategic waterway has long been a crossroads of history and culture. As you sail through, you’ll be treated to views of rugged coastlines, picturesque villages, and possibly even the whirlpools that inspired the ancient tales of Scylla and Charybdis.

Malta’s capital city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is among the world’s smallest, yet definitely most charming.  Graced with the paintings of Caravaggio and kissed by beautiful shorelines, you’ll find photographic icons at almost every turn.  Not to be missed is a visit to the stately Palazzo Parisio to glimpse the enchanting lifestyle of Malta’s nobility. 

Pretty Xlendi Bay lies on the west coast of Gozo, an island long thought to be the mythical Ogygia of Homer’s Odyssey. In the story, Calypso fell in love with Odysseus and held him captive for seven years.. The reputed Calypso Cave is just one of several intriguing caves on the island. There’s also Caroline’s Cave, a natural grotto that was once a private swimming hole for nuns. Surprisingly for such a small island, Gozo is home to the oldest freestanding temples in the world, the Ggantija Temples, nestled among the rolling green hills. You should also visit the Citadella, a small, fortified town that houses the island’s Cathedral, the Museum of Archaeology, the Folklore Museum, and the Old Prisons.

Reggio Calabria is a small ship exclusive port located at the tip of Italy’s “boot”. Known for its stunning seaside promenade, Lungomare Falcomata, it offers beautiful views of Sicily across the Strait of Messina. Key attractions include the National Archaeological Museum, home to the famous Riace Bronzes, and the Aragonese Castle. Additionally, Reggio Calabria is renowned for its rich culinary scene and features specialties such as ‘nduja’.  This unique soft, spreadable, and spicy sausage is made with a blend of local chili peppers. Traditionally, nduja is served on crispy bread and fresh pasta.

Today you’ll discover one of Sicily’s jewels, the charming village of Giardini Naxos, nestled in one of the world’s most beautiful bays. An optional excursion to the popular hillside town of Taormina will be a highlight of your voyage — from the stunning setting of the iconic Greek Theater to the sparkling beaches along the Ionian Sea. Take a more adventurous tack and explore the UNESCO site of Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano.

Taranto, located in the Puglia region of Italy, charms with its historic district featuring Greek ruins and a labyrinth of narrow streets.  The Aragonese Castle and the 11th-century Cathedral of San Cataldo highlight its historic charm. Taranto is famous for its two seas, the Mar Grande and Mar Piccolo, which define its unique geography and provide beautiful beaches with sandy shores for sunbathing. Taranto is also known for its Puglian cuisine, featuring orechiette pasta, mussels, tarali (traditional biscuits), and local wines such as Primitivo and Negroamaro.

Gallipoli, a sun-soaked gem on Italy’s Ionian coast  linked to the mainland by a bridge. Its Baroque churches, narrow cobblestone streets, and lively piazzas offer a glimpse into its rich cultural heritage. Surrounded by stunning beaches and the turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea, Gallipoli is also famous for fresh seafood, especially its prized red prawns.

The picturesque harbor of Fiskardo retains the flavor of a by-gone time with its Venetian-styled houses painted in pleasing pastel colors, a harbor full of small boats and various-sized yachts all moored just a few feet from the restaurants and cafes circling the harbor. The seafood is particularly fresh here where they take great pride in their preparation of delicious Greek cuisine.

Galaxidi is a picturesque seaside town on the Gulf of Corinth, close to Delphi. Known for its rich maritime history, neoclassical mansions, and charming harbor, it offers a peaceful escape with fresh seafood tavernas, scenic walks, and views of the sea framed by mountains.

You’ll want to be on deck today as we transit the narrow Corinth Canal with other private yachts and Greek mail steamers. It’s a shortcut reserved for petite ships like ours, and as we cruise between the narrow limestone walls we are the envy of all the ancient Romans who once portaged their ships along this very route before there was a canal.
 
Canal transit time and duration is subject to change based on traffic and canal authorities.

With 3,000 years of history, you can’t turn around in Athens without encountering the past. The Acropolis, a UNESCO site, the Plaka, and the Acropolis Museum are must-sees. But leave time if you can to climb Pnyx Hill for photos of the Parthenon at sunset, to buy your own set of Greek komboloi (worry beads), and to explore the metro stations that serve as mini-museums for the relics that are constantly being unearthed. 

Few places offer such a rich combination of history and scenic beauty. In Ephesus, one of the greatest outdoor museums in the world, you’ll explore legendary sites steeped in history. Also visit the houses of Bulbul Mountain, where the roof of one forms the terrace of the next. This evening we present our Destination Discovery Event -- dinner in the moonlight and a concert near the  Celsus Library or on Harbour Street in ancient Ephesus. 

 

Kavala, a vibrant port city in northern Greece, is known for its rich history and stunning coastal scenery. The city's landscape is dominated by the imposing Kavala Castle, offering panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. The historic old town, with its narrow streets and traditional houses, reflects Kavala's Ottoman and Byzantine heritage. Kavala is also known for its local cuisine – make sure you try traditional dishes, like kovourmas (cured meat), soutzoukakia (spiced meatballs), and local cheeses.

Thessaloniki, Greece's second-largest city, is a vibrant cultural and historical hub. The city boasts numerous landmarks, including the iconic White Tower, the Rotunda, and the Arch of Galerius. The Byzantine Walls, a remnant of the city's ancient fortifications, offer panoramic views and lead to the impressive Trigonian Tower, a key defensive structure.  Nearby, the archaeological site of Vergina, home to the royal tombs of Macedonian kings, adds to the city's historical allure. Thessaloniki also has a lively waterfront lined with cafes, bars, and restaurants, offering stunning views of the Thermaic Gulf.

Thessaloniki, Greece's second-largest city, is a vibrant cultural and historical hub. The city boasts numerous landmarks, including the iconic White Tower, the Rotunda, and the Arch of Galerius. The Byzantine Walls, a remnant of the city's ancient fortifications, offer panoramic views and lead to the impressive Trigonian Tower, a key defensive structure.  Nearby, the archaeological site of Vergina, home to the royal tombs of Macedonian kings, adds to the city's historical allure. Thessaloniki also has a lively waterfront lined with cafes, bars, and restaurants, offering stunning views of the Thermaic Gulf.

Volos is known for its picturesque waterfront and vibrant cultural scene. Nestled at the foot of Mount Pelion and serving as the gateway to the Pelion Peninsula, Volos offers stunning views and easy access to beautiful beaches, lush forests, and charming mountain villages. The city's promenade is lined with lively cafes, restaurants, and bars, perfect for enjoying local cuisine and fresh seafood. Volos is only a few hours' drive from the breathtaking Meteora Monasteries, a UNESCO World Heritage site. These ancient monasteries, perched atop towering rock formations, blend spiritual history with awe-inspiring natural beauty.

Skopelos is an island known for its lush green landscapes, blue waters, and charming whitewashed villages. The setting for the film, Mamma Mia!, Skopelos exudes a serene and laid-back beauty that captivates visitors. The island's coastline is dotted with idyllic beaches, including the famous Kastani Beach, with its golden sands and clear waters. The main town, Skopelos Town, charms with its narrow cobblestone streets, traditional tavernas, and quaint shops. History echoes through ancient churches and monasteries scattered across the island.

With 3,000 years of history, you can’t turn around in Athens without encountering the past. The Acropolis, a UNESCO site, the Plaka, and the Acropolis Museum are must-sees. But leave time if you can to climb Pnyx Hill for photos of the Parthenon at sunset, to buy your own set of Greek komboloi (worry beads), and to explore the metro stations that serve as mini-museums for the relics that are constantly being unearthed.