Peloponnese Treasures: From Antiquity to Byzantium Small Ship Cruise

Join us - and your fellow explorers - at Marina Zea in Athens for a welcome drink. Today we start our adventure. Be sure to say hello to your archaeology expert for the week, Evgenia. Her expertise will make this week one to remember. We’ll arrive in Nafplion late in the evening and enjoy dinner on board. Overnight in port. 

In the morning, we’ll visit Ancient Epidaurus and start along the trail of the Asclepius Temple. We’ll climb around the Temple of Apollo, passing the ruins of the Temple of Aphrodite and the ancient cistern. Passing through eons-old olive tree groves we end up walking down to the famous ancient theater. Lunch on board, followed by an overnight stay at the port of Nafplion, the first capital of modern Greece and the main port of the Eastern Peloponnese.

After a short morning walking tour of Nafplion, we’ll drive through the stunning Argolis countryside to another major center of Greek civilization: Mycenae. This ancient city is home to the Lion’s Gate, Cyclopean Walls, the Agamemnon Tomb, and more. Enjoy lunch on board and afternoon sailing to Monemvasia, a mediaeval Byzantine town. Yet the special vantage point from sea is met with an equal measure of character when explored on foot. Nicknamed the Gibraltar of the East, explore the preserved Byzantine and Venetian architecture of the town that was the birthplace of one of the most important Greek poets, Giannis Ritsos. We’ll take a walk inside - delving into its winding paths and traditional churches, as well as around its castle. Overnight at sea. 

Arrive early in Gythion. Join an optional tour to the Mani Peninsula, including the stunning Dirou Caves, known for their impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Explore ancient Gythion, once a key Spartan naval base, then visit the caves—one of Greece’s most remarkable natural wonders. Continue to Areopolis for a short walk through this charming town. Mani, with its rugged beauty and dramatic landscapes, offers a unique glimpse into southern Greece. Overnight at sea to Pylos. 

Morning arrival into Pylos port - a charming seaside town with a rich history, including the pivotal 1827 naval battle that led to Greek independence. On an optional excursion, visit the ruins of Nestor’s Palace, a Mycenaean-era site with royal apartments and ancient frescoes. Then stop in Hora to explore an impressive archaeological museum showcasing artifacts from the palace. Overnight at sea.

Early morning arrival in Katakolon. An optional excursion takes you to ancient Olympia, birthplace of the Olympic Games and home to the Temple of Zeus—once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Walk through the ancient stadium, explore temples, and visit the acclaimed archaeological museum. After lunch in Olympia, visit the Museum of the History of the Olympic Games. Overnight sailing to Itea.

Morning optional excursion to Delphi, one of ancient Greece’s most sacred sites. Built into the mountainside, Delphi was home to the famous oracle of Apollo and once drew visitors from across the Greek world. Explore the dramatic ruins and visit the nearby museum. Return to the ship to cross the Corinth Canal. In the evening, enjoy the Captain’s Farewell Dinner. Overnight in Marina Zea.

Breakfast on board before disembarkation. Though this adventure has come to an end, we hope to sea you on another soon!

Itineraries are subject to change.