Ancient Wonders of Greece & Ephesus
 
Athens, Greece to Athens, Greece
Wed Apr 30, 2025 - Sat May 10, 2025,
 10 days
 on Wind Spirit
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Athens, Greece to Athens, Greece
Enjoy a cruise worthy of Greek gods as you visit the land of myth and legend on your own white chariot. Feast your eyes on Santorini’s raven-black cliffs draped in Cyclades-blue and white homes. Inhale the scent of heather and pines on the sacred island of Patmos, where the book of Revelation was penned. Walk on cobblestones worn smooth by peasants and knights in the living medieval cities of Rhodes and Monemvasia. Stray off the beaten path to Ermoupoli where the strains of rebetiko (Greek blues) flow from open-air tavernas, and to Agios Nikolaus, to swim in the lagoon where the goddess Athena was said to bathe. Blur the lines between dreams and reality as you dine in the shadow of Ephesus at a complimentary Destination Discovery Event. Each day adds a new page as you write your own legend

Looking for more? Go in-land and combine the best of the land and sea with a Cruise Tour that includes this itinerary:

Delphi & Meteora: Grecian Antiquities Cruise Tour
voyage map
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Day 1: Athens, Greece
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. 
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Day 2: Nafplio
This charming seaside town on the Peloponnese is one of the most romantic cities in Greece. Enjoy the medieval old town with narrow cobblestone alleys, and neoclassical mansions with bougainvillea trees adorning the balconies. Take an optional tour to the UNESCO site of Epidaurus or the UNESCO site of Mycenea, ancient ruins including the famous Lion’s Gate. Stroll the Syntagma Square and take in the beauty of the Palamidi Castle with its 999 steps carved from the rocks. The view is breathtaking. 
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Day 3: Mykonos
Wake this morning to the postcard-like scene of Mykonos, the classic Greek isle dotted with hundreds of whitewashed churches and thatch-roofed windmills, in a harbor bobbing with fishing boats and luxurious private yachts. An optional  tour including a scenic ferry ride takes you back to the 6th   century B.C. to the tiny island of Delos, a UNESCO site and the mythical birthplace of Apollo.
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Day 4: Mykonos
Wake this morning to the postcard-like scene of Mykonos, the classic Greek isle dotted with hundreds of whitewashed churches and thatch-roofed windmills, in a harbor bobbing with fishing boats and luxurious private yachts. An optional  tour including a scenic ferry ride takes you back to the 6th   century B.C. to the tiny island of Delos, a UNESCO site and the mythical birthplace of Apollo.
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Day 4: Ermoupoli
Ermoupoli, the capital of Syros, opens the door to a little-known Greek island packed with rainbow-colored houses clinging to the hillsides. Not much has changed here since medieval times and the narrow cobblestone streets full of stairways and arches create a delightful maze. Sites to see include the Aghios Georgios Cathedral at the top of the hill, the Capuchin and Jesuit monasteries, and the picturesque main square known as the Piatsa.
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Day 5: Kusadasi
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. 

 
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Day 6: Patmos
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known worldwide as the sacred island where St. John wrote the Book of Revelation, Patmos is the ideal place for nature lovers with its coastline of sheer cliffs and its volcanic soil.  Highlights of Patmos include the Cave of the Apocalypse and the Holy Monastery of the Apocalypse.
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Day 7: Rhodes
This gracious oasis, known as the “Island of Roses,” was home to the legendary Colossus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Today it is a yachting paradise, whose shores are lined with sparkling beaches and lush green mountainsides. A scenic drive leads you through quaint villages and lemon groves to the ancient Acropolis of Lindos, standing guard over the picturesque town or to the Old City of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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Day 8: Agios Nikolaos, Greece
Agios Nikolaos is a colorful blend of traditional tavernas, upscale boutiques, fish markets, bars and coffee houses. Stroll the harbor and stop by a tavern for Cretan specialties such as xynomizythra (a tangy soft white cheese) or kalitsounia (small savory herb pies).
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Day 9: Santorini
As our yacht approaches the spectacular cliffs rising from the deep azure sea, you’ll understand the magic of this area, where some say the ruins of Atlantis remain hidden. Visit the village of Oia and see the iconic Santorini blue domes or take a guided tour of Bronze Age excavations at the UNESCO site of Akrotiri. Toast the day with a crisp, cold glass of local Assyrtiko wine and appreciate the magic accessible to small ships like ours.
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Day 10: Monemvasia
This Gibraltar-like town tied to the mainland by a single thread of causeway holds treasures that are old even by Mediterranean standards, with town walls and several churches dating to the 12th century. Climb to the upper town for an up-close look at the castle and Agia Sophia, a Byzantine church. Wander the lanes of the lower town lined with Venetian mansions, many of which have been lovingly restored. Savor the sun on a smooth pebble beach. 
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Day 11: Athens, Greece
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. 

A Complimentary Windstar Destination Discovery Event

Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime experience after hours during this Evening in Ephesus event exclusive to Windstar guests. Enjoy a 5-course, white-glove-service dinner under the stars accompanied by a trio from the Aegean Chamber Orchestra. Surround yourself in the magic of these ancient ruins, and delight in every detail.

Wind Star/Wind Spirit: This event takes place in the Ephesus Library.
Star Legend/Star Pride: This event takes place on Harbor Street.

Please note: This Destination Discovery Event has been scheduled in a way that will allow you to book and experience another shore excursion on the same day and you will not miss anything.
Popular Highlights
Crete
Take advantage of late nights in Crete and Rhodes for an even better sense of the local flavor.
House of Mary
See forever memorable Ephesus and the House of Mary from Kusadasi.
Mykonos
Enjoy a late night in Mykonos with time to shop the chic boutiques and cafes, see the working windmills, and relax on the beach.
Parthenon
Tour the Parthenon and the Acropolis in Athens, which are must-sees.
Rhodes
Visit the palace of the Grand Masters in Rhodes.
Syros
Marvel at the impressive 2-and 3-storied neoclassical mansions in Syros.
Itinerary at a Glance
Date
Port
Arrive
Depart
Watersports
PlatformWatersports Platform: 
Wed Apr 30
Athens, Greece
Arrive:  
Depart:  5:00 PM
Watersports Platform: 
Thu May 1
Nafplio
Arrive:  8:00 AM
Depart:  5:00 PM
Watersports Platform: 
Fri May 2
Mykonos
Arrive:  8:00 AM
Depart:  
Watersports Platform: 
Sat May 3
Mykonos
Arrive:  
Depart:  7:00 AM
Watersports Platform: 
Sat May 3
Ermoupoli
Arrive:  10:00 AM
Depart:  5:00 PM
Watersports Platform: 
Sun May 4
Kusadasi
Arrive:  7:00 AM
Depart:  11:59 PM
Watersports Platform: 
Mon May 5
Patmos
Arrive:  8:00 AM
Depart:  6:00 PM
Watersports Platform: 
Tue May 6
Rhodes
Arrive:  8:00 AM
Depart:  5:00 PM
Watersports Platform: 
Wed May 7
Agios Nikolaos, Greece
Arrive:  10:00 AM
Depart:  10:00 PM
Watersports Platform: 
Thu May 8
Santorini
Arrive:  9:00 AM
Depart:  9:00 PM
Watersports Platform: 
Fri May 9
Monemvasia
Arrive:  12:00 PM
Depart:  6:00 PM
Watersports Platform: 
Sat May 10
Athens, Greece
Arrive:  7:00 AM
Depart:  
Watersports Platform: 
“We were left to explore the ancient Marble Road. Soon a beautiful voice echoed from the amphitheater — a fellow passenger testing the amazing acoustics. It was the perfect prelude to a fabulous dinner and concert in front of the Celsus Library, a setting which cannot be duplicated.”
Our Storyteller: Chris Prelog
Windstar President
I have traveled extensively to many places in the world and have been in the travel industry for more than 20 years. I have been to Greece several times during my 5 years with Windstar and once prior to joining Windstar.
Chris Prelog recalls Windstar’s exclusive evening at Ephesus with vivid imagery. “Arriving after hours, with no tourists,” says the Windstar president, “we were left to explore the ancient Marble Road. Soon a beautiful voice echoed from the amphitheater — a fellow passenger testing the amazing acoustics. It was the perfect prelude to a fabulous dinner and concert in front of the Celsus Library, a setting which cannot be duplicated.”

The complimentary Destination Discovery Event is just one of the magical moments you’ll experience on what Chris calls “the quintessential Windstar cruise,” a mix of bucket-list destinations and charming little villages where only a ship the size of Wind Star can navigate. The romantic walled town of Monemvasia is one of Chris’s all-time favorites, as is bougainvillea-lined Nafplio. Visits to pastel-colored Ermoupoli and Agios Nikolaos, home to the Palace of Knossos with its fabled labyrinth, are rounded out with perennial favorites Santorini, Mykonos, Patmos, and Rhodes — each offering access to UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Add a few days before or after in Athens and this itinerary, as Chris says, “has every element of a select sailing, and one that I could repeat over and over again.”
  • Sail around Santorini in a catamaran, stopping to swim in the Caldera’s warm waters — “The island is so beautiful,” says Chris, “that only from a boat can you see all of the terrain and colors, and really feel like you are in Greece”
  • Take advantage of a late night in Rhodes to visit the 2nd-century acropolis and Palace of the Grand Masters, one of many medieval treasures in the UNESCO-designated Old City
  • Enjoy another late evening in Agios Nikolaos to soak in Crete’s natural beauty — Prelog suggests finding an outdoor café overlooking the harbor: “I lingered over what must have been a three-hour lunch … I simply I did not want to leave”
  • Watch Mykonos’ windmills and shop its chic boutiques during an overnight call, which also allows time to explore the UNESCO-designated ruins on nearby Delos
  • Lose yourself in tiny Monemvasia with its charming shops, wine bars, and cafés — Chris recommends Mateo’s at the pier: “One of the finest for authentic local delicacies like clams, sardines, and grilled fish, enjoyed beneath blue umbrellas.”
Wind Spirit
The Wind Spirit is a sleek, 4-masted sailing yacht accommodating 148 guests. With four decks and a gross tonnage of 5,736, Wind Spirit feels like your own private yacht.
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Accommodations & Pricing
Boutique cruising with fewer than 350 guests. Our expertly designed itineraries and unexpected shore excursions bring you closer to each destination.
Category B
Category B
Every inch of your stateroom is designed for comfort. Luxurious Egyptian cotton linens wrap you in pleasant sleepiness as you stretch out in your queen bed (can be separated into twins if you prefer). Your spacious bath features granite counter tops, ample storage, and a roomy shower with massage shower head. L’Occitane® bath products invite you to indulge, while comfy waffle-weave robe and slippers entice you to relax. You’ll find fresh fruit and flowers always waiting for you after a day of sun or sightseeing. And, of course, everything else you need and expect — flat-screen television and DVD, private safe. And always at your fingertips, anything you wish from room service.
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Category BX Deluxe
Category BX Deluxe
Every inch of your stateroom is designed for comfort. Luxurious Egyptian cotton linens wrap you in pleasant sleepiness as you stretch out in your queen bed (can be separated into twins if you prefer). Your spacious bath features granite counter tops, ample storage, and a roomy shower with massage shower head. L’Occitane® bath products invite you to indulge, while comfy waffle-weave robe and slippers entice you to relax. You’ll find fresh fruit and flowers always waiting for you after a day of sun or sightseeing. And, of course, everything else you need and expect — flat-screen television and DVD, private safe. And always at your fingertips, anything you wish from room service.
? Call for Availability
Category A
Category A
Every inch of your stateroom is designed for comfort. Luxurious Egyptian cotton linens wrap you in pleasant sleepiness as you stretch out in your queen bed (can be separated into twins if you prefer). Your spacious bath features granite counter tops, ample storage, and a roomy shower with massage shower head. L’Occitane® bath products invite you to indulge, while comfy waffle-weave robe and slippers entice you to relax. You’ll find fresh fruit and flowers always waiting for you after a day of sun or sightseeing. And, of course, everything else you need and expect — flat-screen television and DVD, private safe. And always at your fingertips, anything you wish from room service.
? Call for Availability
Category AX Deluxe
Category AX Deluxe
Every inch of your stateroom is designed for comfort. Luxurious Egyptian cotton linens wrap you in pleasant sleepiness as you stretch out in your queen bed (can be separated into twins if you prefer). Your spacious bath features granite counter tops, ample storage, and a roomy shower with massage shower head. L’Occitane® bath products invite you to indulge, while comfy waffle-weave robe and slippers entice you to relax. You’ll find fresh fruit and flowers always waiting for you after a day of sun or sightseeing. And, of course, everything else you need and expect — flat-screen television and DVD, private safe. And always at your fingertips, anything you wish from room service.
? Call for Availability
Owner's Suite
Owner's Suite
With an expansive 220 square feet, the Owner’s Suite gives you everything offered in a stateroom, plus lots more, including a beautiful sitting area and separate in-room dining space.
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The Windstar Life
The Windstar staff-to-guest ratio is 1:1.5, and it shows.The moment you board you’ll feel it: an ever-attentive crew at your service, providing you with what you want and need, when you want and need it.
Friendly and Relaxed Atmosphere
Signature Onboard Barbecue
Cooking Demonstrations
Genuine and Thoughtful Crew
Crew Talent Show
Open Bridge
Local and Live Performances
Relax at the Pool or Hot Tub
Complimentary 24 Hour Room Service
Signature Sail Away
Shopping With The Chef
Take In The Sun
Watersports Platform
Enjoy regionally inspired treatments at World Spa by Windstar
Relax With A Morning Yoga Session
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FARES
Great cruise-only fares or make it an all-inclusive voyage with Wi-Fi, unlimited beer, wine, and cocktails, and gratuities. From $89 per guest per day.
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Wed, Apr 30 - Sat, May 10, 2025
WIND SPIRIT
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