Greece

Day 1: - Friday 5^th June 2009 / Istanbul

Today the Turkish tour finishes and some people fly home.
We spend a day at leisure exploring Istanbul.
Meals included: 1 breakfast

Day 2: - Saturday 6^th June 2009 / Istanbul

This morning we join our ship the 'Cristal' for our cruise through the Greek Islands, at times touching back briefly on Turkish soil.
Meals included: Breakfast in Hotel, Lunch & Dinner onboard the ship

Day 3: - Sunday 7^th June 2009 / Istanbul

We have a day at leisure today before we set sail. You may wish to use this time to go back to the Spice market or Grand Bazaar. Perhaps there’s some shopping you just didn’t quite get time to complete before. Alternatively you may prefer to take part in one of the optional tours provided by the Cruise line, either way the day is yours to relax and enjoy yourself.
All Meals included onboard

Day 4: - Monday 8^th June 2009 / Mykonos

Time to explore this wonderful Mediterranean Island. There are many opportunities for photographs, the locals are renowned for their friendliness, and Mykonos is a vibrant blend of art and culture. After a wander, take a seat at one of the many local café's and observe life as it occurs on Mykonos.
All Meals included onboard

Day 5: - Tuesday 9^th June 2009 / Patmos and Kusadasi

We arrive in PATMOS early this morning, You can take a taxi up the hill to a spectacular monastery, a treasure house of gold, silver and religious artifacts, visitors are afforded great views and photo opportunities. If you prefer, a leisurely wander through the picturesque streets is a great way to see Patmos.

In the afternoon we cruise on to KUSADASI. Plenty of time to explore the town, buy a carpet, eat Turkish Delight or sit in a café and drink Turkish Coffee and watch the world pass by.
All Meals included onboard

Day 6: - Wednesday 10^th June 2009 / Rhodes

RHODES famed as the island of sun, sea and sand, it is the third largest Greek island and (unofficially) the sunniest place in Europe. Rhodes, built by the knights of St John as a stopover point on his way to the crusades, combines the cosmopolitan character of a contemporary city with the picturesque character of a medieval town. It’s a wonderful place to explore by foot at a quiet pace, and that’s what we strongly recommend. (There’s also a good chance to catch up on washing at the 'Star' Laundromat).
All Meals included onboard

Day 7: - Thursday 11^th June 2009 / Crete and Santorini

HERAKLION - (Crete) is the largest city in Crete and the capital of the island. Iraklio is located in the middle of the north beach, close to Knossos and has one of the most interesting archaeological museums in the world. There are many fascinating streets and road side markets to explore, and the waterfront area is usually abuzz with activity.

In the afternoon we set sail for SANTORINI - there’s no need to take an optional shore excursion here. Thira on the cliff top typifies everything imagined of a Greek Island. Narrow streets and whitewashed houses, many with the customary blue roofs. Take the cable car or donkeys up the hill and shop, explore or simply sit in a taverna and watch the locals and tourists alike as they go about their business. A great place to buy souvenirs, paintings or create your own masterpiece with your camera.
All Meals included onboard

Day 8: - Friday 12^th June 2009 / Athens

This morning we arrive at the port of Piraeus early, and upon disembarkation will be met by our tour coach and knowledgeable local guide. We’ll be shown some of the highlights of this famous Olympic city including the original Olympic Stadium, the Acropolis and temple of Nike plus many points of interest along the way.

This evening to get into the Greek theme we’re going out to dinner (included) in the Plaka area where we will be entertained by local singers and musicians.
Breakfast onboard - Greek Dinner

Day 9: - Saturday 13^th June 2009 / Athens

It’s off to Delphi today! Rich in mythology and Greek legend, Delphi sits amongst the rock and forests of holy Mt Parnassus. Although debate rages as to the exact date of Delphi, it is now widely accepted that it could have existed as early as 1500 BC. We’ll have a lunch stop nearby before returning to Athens mid to late afternoon, allowing time to explore the quaint little towns, not just the big cities.
Meals included: 1 breakfast

Day 10: - Sunday 14^th June 2009 / Athens

Free time in Athens today. You may decide to explore on foot, shop, sit back with an espresso in the Plaka area, re-visit the Acropolis or take some time out at the hotel to catch up on the photo editing, diary completion and other enjoyable tasks.
Meals included: 1 breakfast

Day 11: - Monday 15^th June 2009 / Athens

This morning is our final opportunity for photos or shopping prior to our transfer to the airport for our flight home.
Meals included: 1 breakfast

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