Turkey and Greece: A Sailing Odyssey

Step aboard the square-rigged yacht Sea Cloud, and sail along the magnificent isles and rocky coastlines of Turkey and Greece. Encounter the glittering marble cities of the ancient world from Ephesus to Delos, and stroll through the timeless whitewashed villages of the Cyclades. Delve deep into the rich history and mythology of the Romans and the Greeks and encounter the legacy of the Ottomans in vibrant Istanbul.

Days 1 & 2 — U.S./Istanbul, Turkey

Depart on an overnight flight to Istanbul and check into our hotel, located in the heart of the Old City in this fabled capital of the Ottoman Empire. If you wish, take advantage of free time this afternoon to explore on your own, perhaps to visit the Blue Mosque to see its renowned Iznik tiles, or the Hagia Sophia, where graceful minarets soar into the sky. We’ll gather tonight for a festive welcome dinner.
Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet (D)

Day 3 — Izmir/Ephesus

Board a morning flight to Izmir and continue overland to Ephesus, once home to the Temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Take in views of this sparkling white city and then follow the Marble Way past ancient merchant houses to the Great Theater and the dazzling facade of the Library of Celsus. This afternoon, a short drive brings us to the port of Kusadasi where the beautiful Sea Cloud awaits. Settle into your cabin and enjoy dinner on board this evening.
Sea Cloud (B,L,D)

Day 4 — Didyma/At Sea

At Didyma we explore an Ionian shrine that was the site of the oracle of Apollo. Wander among the ruins of massive columns to the Temple of Apollo and discover the site's significance in the ancient world. Later this afternoon return to the Sea Cloud and watch sailors climb the lines to raise the sails by hand as we set sail for Bodrum.
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Day 5 — Bodrum

Drop anchor in Bodrum, a lively seaside town built around two natural harbors. Venture into the Castle of St. Peter, built by the Crusaders in the 15th century to combat the spread of the Ottoman Empire. Set on a promontory between Bodrum’s harbors, the castle now houses the impressive Museum of Underwater Archaeology, where we’ll examine items excavated from Bronze Age shipwrecks and artifacts from subsequent eras.
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Day 6 — At Sea

Enjoy a full day skimming across the sparkling Aegean in our lovely tall ship as we make our way to the Cycladic Islands under full sail. Relax with a book on deck, take in the views and watch the crew trim the sails, and attend talks by our experts on the history and culture of the region. Late this afternoon, we may stop for a swim or dock at one of the islands along our route.
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Day 7 — Santoríni

Make sure you’re on deck this morning as we glide into Santoríni’s volcanic caldera and see the island's spectacular cliffs and whitewashed villages ringing the blue sea. Ashore, take a drive through vineyards to the tiny village of Ía and stroll past its iconic domed churches and windmills. Then continue to Thíra and take in splendid views of the caldera.
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Day 8 — At Sea/Folégandros

After a morning of sailing, anchor at the small island of Folégandros and head up to the cliff-side town of Hora. Stroll along the cobbled streets of the medieval kastro, and wind your way through the city walls for magnificent views of the island's rocky shores and pristine beaches.
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Day 9 — Delos/At Sea

Tiny Delos is known as the birthplace of the twin gods Artemis, goddess of animals and the hunt, and Apollo, god of healing, reason and light. It was also a flourishing port during the Roman era. Explore this extraordinary archaeological site today. Walk down the Terrace of the Lions and encounter the marble Temple of Apollo, one of the holiest sites in ancient Greece. On our final afternoon unwind on deck one last time as we set our course for Piraeus.
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Day 10 — Piraeus/Athens/U.S.

After breakfast, disembark in Pireaus and transfer to Athens for your return flight.
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