9 days from $1199*

Includes airfare, fuel surcharges, transfers, 7 nights at sea, many meals, discounted sightseeing and more!

Classical Greece by Sea

This is no ordinary cruise to the Greek Isles. Rather, this is an opportunity to really tour some of the greatest of classical treasures found in Greece. You'll visit Athens, Corinth, Olympia and Delphi, among other places, without wasting a moment driving the long stretches of highway between cities. Instead, you'll spend your days exploring each magical site and your nights, while you sleep, sailing to your next stop. By motor coach, you would have to spend at least 10 days or more to cover this much territory. But thanks to a novel approach to touring, created by easyCruise (from Stelios, founder of Europe's incredibly successful low cost airline, easyJet), you'll only need a week.

Don't expect midnight buffets, casinos, or cabaret shows aboard easyCruise Life-but do prepare for an incredible itinerary at a fraction of the price you would pay under any other travel arrangements. And don't wait to jump on this deal. Space is very limited and on a first come, first served basis. And at these impossibly low prices, this amazing journey will sell out fast.

Cruise Itinerary at a Glance

CLASSICAL GREECE BY SEA
Day	Port of Call	Arrive	Depart
2	Piraeus, Athens	Embark from 2 pm	1 am
3	Kiato, Mycenae Excursion	9:30 am	2:30 am
4	Patras, Olympia Excursion	8:30 am	3:30 am
5	Itea, Delphi Excursion	9 am	4 am
6	Corinth, Ancient Corinth & Nemea Excursion	9 am	9 pm
7	Nafplio, Epidavros Excursion	10:30 am	12:30 am
8	Piraeus & Athens Excursion	9:30 am	Remain in port overnight
9	Piraeus & Athens	Disembark by 9 am

*Guided shore excursions included in special optional touring package.

Detailed Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Depart USA. Your exciting journey to Athens, Greece, begins this evening as you check in for your OLYMPIC AIRWAYS overnight jet flight.

Day 2: Piraeus (Athens). Upon arrival, you'll be met by our representative and transferred to the cruise terminal in Piraeus, the city next to Athens, to board your ship, the easyCruise Life. Enjoy dinner and a welcome reception on board before setting sail on your Classical Greece adventure.

easyCruise offers an on board Classical Greece Cruise Coordinator to help you explore the sites of ancient Greece as the cruise unfolds. In addition, easyCruise also invites guest lecturers to accompany certain excursions to provide additional insight into the history and importance of the sites visited. You'll also find plentiful books and novels on board to browse and buy for more information and interest. (D)

Day 3: Kiato, Mycenae. Mycenae's rich history dates back to around 3000 BC, making it one of the longest inhabited and most fascinating regions in Greece. The highlight of today's full day optional shore excursion is a visit to the ancient citadel of Mycenae, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This site dates to between 1600 and 1100 BC and was the center of a powerful succession of rulers so famous that, today we refer to the Greek civilization at that time as Mycenaean civilization. After a leisurely lunch in a local restaurant, return to the port of Kiato for an evening at leisure (€50 per person, approximately USD $77). (B, D)

Day 4: Patras, Olympia. Today, dock in the port of Patras, one of the major ports of Greece. Patras is the third largest city in Greece, with a rich historical heritage. The reconstructed Roman Odeon and the replica of the Original Patras lighthouse are some of the interesting attractions of the city.

Nearby Olympia is best known as the birthplace of the Olympic Games. The Olympic Games, it is said, first began in 776 BC and their foundation marks the beginning of recorded history. Every four years envoys would be sent out from the sanctuary to announce the Olympic Games to the whole Greek world. All wars were stopped during the time of the games and everyone was allowed to travel in safety to participate and to watch. This place witnessed one of the largest gatherings of Greeks known to the ancient world and was also popular with the Roman emperors who liked to show off their prowess.

Enjoy an optional full day shore excursion that provides a comprehensive overview of Olympia's rich history. Visit the stadium where the foot and chariot races were held. View the massive investment and preparation that went into hosting an event open to all the corners of the ancient world-the inns, gymnasiums and training grounds. Tour the sanctuary of Zeus to see some of the most imposing remains in Greece: the heavy dark stone columns of the Temple of Zeus raised high off the ground; the stoas and treasuries lining the sides of the sanctuary and the museum with its incredibly well preserved ancient sculpture, armour and athletic finds. The sanctuary was a notice board, a talking shop, a place of intense competition and prestige and over it all presided one of the seven wonders of the ancient world: the gold and ivory statue of a seated Zeus, placed inside his temple, made by the great sculptor Pheidias. The statue was said to be so tall that if Zeus ever decided to stand up, he would take the roof of his temple up with him into the sky (€60 per person, approximately USD $92). (B, D)

Day 5: Itea, Delphi. Today, stop at the modern port of Itea, near the ancient port where visitors to the oracle of Delphi used to arrive and make their way up the mountainside to the sanctuary. Near Itea is the seaside town of Galaxidi, with relaxed bars, restaurants and beaches. But not to be missed is the journey through one of the largest olive groves in Europe up into the Parnassos mountains to the sanctuary of Delphi.

The sanctuary is in one of the most mountainous areas of Greece, and in ancient times, cut off in winter by the snow and at the end of a long and arduous journey at all other times. Yet despite its remote location, it was known as the centre of the ancient world. Mythology tells us that Zeus let go of two eagles at opposite ends of the world and they met over Delphi. It was a sanctuary dedicated to the god Apollo and contained his most famous oracle: the Pythian Priestess who would, when consulted, go into a frenzy inspired by the God and give his pronouncements on the future. It was said that mystical vapours appeared from a chasm underneath the ground of the temple-a chasm which has been found today and tested by geologists. There is fierce debate about its use.

But the power of the oracle in the ancient world was never in doubt as the richest and most powerful rulers of the ancient world came often to Delphi to seek the advice and wisdom of the oracle. Delphi has earned the ranking of UNESCO World Heritage Site for its beauty, grandeur and importance to the ancient world. Explore this site in depth on today's half day optional shore excursion (€40 per person, approximately USD $62). (B,D)

Day 6: Corinth. The easyCruise Life negotiates its way through the Corinth Canal, cut through solid rock 23 metres wide, 87 m deep and over 6 kilometres in length, linking the Ionian and Aegean seas. The canal is a magnificent feat of human engineering, begun by the Emperor Nero in 67 AD, but not completed until 1893. Transit the canal during daylight hours on Monday morning before arriving in Corinth and again on Friday morning on your return to Athens.

Upon arrival in Corinth, disembark and explore ancient Corinth and Nemea on a guided tour that includes a visit to one of the finest wine producing areas of Greece, or explore on your own. The ancient city of Corinth was once the rival of Athens for supremacy in mainland Greece, before finally displacing Athens as the capital during Roman times. During this period, St Paul lived and preached here for almost two years. Visit the magnificent ancient remains of the city, including one of the oldest standing temples in Greece and see how the Romans rebuilt Greek cities to suit their own style.

Mythology has it that in the nearby sanctuary of Nemea, Heracles, the greatest of all Greek heroes, battled with a lion sent by the goddess Hera. This lion would have destroyed the sanctuary and its settlement had Heracles not defeated it, transforming it into the constellation we now know as Leo. The sanctuary became one of the four great pan Hellenic sanctuaries of ancient Greece, with its own athletic games to rival the ones at Olympia. Imagine the huge animal sacrifices carried out here as you stand looking at its 41m long altar. Visit the museum to learn about the sanctuary, located between Corinth and Argos, the two great rival powers that fought constantly over it.

Nemea is also one of the finest wine producing regions of Greece-particularly of red wine. Here the Agiorghitiko grape is used and produces wines famous for their deep red color, complex aroma and long, velvety palate, and you'll enjoy an opportunity to taste while you tour (€35 per person, approximately USD $55). (B,D)

Day 7: Nafplio, Epidavros. Epidavros was built to honor Asklepeios, the god of healing. Today's optional shore excursion explores the Sanctuary of Askleipios at Epidavros, famed for its marvelous ancient theatre with astounding acoustics. Pausanias, traveling in the 2nd Century AD, was full of praise for its symmetry and beauty. Many a visitor has climbed to the top row of the theatre to marvel at the sound that travels from the stage area. Beautifully situated in a lush green landscape, several people set out for Epidavros in the summer months to watch plays, mainly Ancient Greek tragedies and comedies (€30 per person, approximately USD $46). (B,D)

Day 8: Piraeus, Athens. Arrive this morning in Athens, the "cradle of democracy." There's plenty of time today to explore the city-most of the ancient sites are within easy reach, and when you've had your fill of culture, there are always the local tavernas, cafes, bars and clubs!

To maximize your time in Athens, we recommend today's optional shore excursion. This tour takes you first heart of the ancient city, the Acropolis, the political and religious centre of Ancient Greece, where you'll find the Parthenon, one of the most important ancient monuments in the Western world. After lunch in Plaka, the picturesque center of "old" Athens, continue to the National Archaeological Museum. It is full of captivating artifacts, many from sites that you will have visited earlier on in the tour (€60 per person, approximately USD $92). (B,D)

Day 9: Athens/USA. Disembark early this morning and bid farewell to Greece as you transfer to the airport for your return flight to the US. Your journey comes to an end as you arrive in the USA later today. Or, take advantage of an optional Athens Extension. (B)

Optional Extension to Athens

Why not take advantage of your already included airfare and extend your stay in Greece to explore the capital city of Athens? Our extension includes accommodations in a centrally located, superior class hotel, breakfast daily, and transfers!

3-Night Extension Itinerary
(Oct-Dec departures)

Day 9-12: Athens/USA. Enjoy three full days at leisure to explore Athens, the birthplace of western civilization. You'll be met by our representative at the port and escorted to your hotel overlooking the Acropolis and within short distance of Constitution Square and the famous Plaka (Old Town). You'll have plenty of time to delve into Athens' rich history and vibrant cultural attractions. Your hotel is ideally located in the heart of the city, close to many major attractions, as well as the best shopping and dining. Be sure to spend an evening at the Plaka, where you'll find typical Greek tavernas complete with music and celebratory throwing of plates. It's an experience not to be missed! Titania Hotel or similar (B)

2-Night Extension Itinerary
(Feb-March departures)

Day 9-11: Athens/USA. Enjoy two full days at leisure to explore Athens, the birthplace of western civilization. You'll be met by our representative at the port and escorted to your hotel overlooking the Acropolis and within short distance of Constitution Square and the famous Plaka (Old Town). You'll have plenty of time to delve into Athens' rich history and vibrant cultural attractions. Your hotel is ideally located in the heart of the city, close to many major attractions, as well as the best shopping and dining. Be sure to spend an evening at the Plaka, where you'll find typical Greek tavernas complete with music and celebratory throwing of plates. It's an experience not to be missed! Titania Hotel or similar (B)

Special Optional Tours Package

$299 per person if pre-booked

To take full advantage of your Classical Greece adventure, we offer a discounted package of the six optional shore excursions on this cruise.

Optional Tours Package includes:

• Full day tour of citadel of Mycenae including lunch at local restaurant (Day 3)
• Full day tour of Ancient Olympia, including lunch (Day 4)
• Half day tour Delphi (Day 5)
• Half day tour of Ancient Corinth and Nemea (Day 6)
• Half day tour of the Sanctuary of Askleipios in Epidavros (Day 7)
• Fully day tour of Acropolis and National Archeological Museum in Athens, including lunch in the Plaka (Day 8)

The special package price of $299 per person is available when booked and prepaid prior to departure. If you don't want to book the entire package, individual optional tours will be available for booking aboard the easyCruise Life.

Important Note: While the optional shore excursions are suitable for most travelers, certain excursions are not recommended for passengers who have difficulty walking. In particular, the tours in Mycenae, Delphi, and the Acropolis take place on very hilly terrain. In addition, while there is an elevator aboard the ship, embarking and disembarking each day may be difficult for people with limited mobility. Please take this into consideration before making your reservation. If you have questions regarding accessibility, please contact us.

About your ship, easyCruise Life

The sleek and newly refurbished easyCruise Life has one purpose in mind: exploring Greece. Embodying an entirely new concept in cruising, the easyCruise Life sails for just a few hours each day, arriving early at each destination so that you can enjoy the rest of the day and evening (until the early hours) ashore. With nine decks and a passenger capacity of 550, easyCruise Life is a midsize cruise ship with an array of amenities that reflect that of a superior class hotel.

Spanning four decks, the standard outside cabins on easyCruise Life feature a unique and ultra-modern minimalist design. All cabins are equipped with air-conditioning, crisp white linens, private bathroom, and wardrobe. Click here for information about your ship.

Destination FAQs

For quick answers to Frequently Asked Questions about travel to Greece, click here.

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Classical Greece by Sea
Included Features

• Round trip flights from New York via Olympic Airlines wide-bodied jet service including fuel surcharges (flight schedule)
• Arrival and departure transfer with meeting and assistance
• 7 nights aboard the easyCruise Life, in standard inside cabins
• Inexpensive cabin upgrades
• Breakfast and dinner daily aboard ship
• Special discounted optional touring program for 6 days
• Special optional Athens Extension

Classical Greece by Sea Departures & Prices* Depart Return Book by Oct 22 After Oct 22 2008 DEPARTURES Oct 18 Oct 26 $1499 Oct 25 Nov 2 $1499 $1799 Nov 1 Nov 9 $1399 $1699 Nov 8 Nov 16 $1299 $1599 Nov 15 Nov 23 $1299 $1599 Nov 22 Nov 30 $1249 $1549 Nov 29 Dec 7 $1199 $1499 Dec 6 Dec 14 $999 $1299 Dec 13 Dec 21 $1299 $1599 2009 DEPARTURES Feb 13 Feb 21 $1099 $1399 Mar 6 Mar 14 $1299 $1599 Mar 13 Mar 21 $1399 $1699 Mar 20 Mar 28 $1399 $1699 Mar 27 Apr 4 $1499 $1799

Tour prices are per person, double occupancy, including airfare. Prices in red reflect an early booking discount if you reserve by Oct. 22, 2008. * Prices do not include Additional Taxes, Fees & September 11th Security Fee for this tour of $175.

Taxes & Fees * Service Price Additional Taxes, Fees & September 11th Security Fee $175

Optionals & Supplements Service Price Discounted Optional Tours Package $299 Single Supplement $200 Cabin Upgrades Standard Outside with Window $75 Superior Outside with Window $280 Cabin Upgrades Single Supplements Standard Outside with Window (Oct-Feb departures) $200 Standard Outside with Window (March departures only) $250 Superior Outside with Window $375

Athens Extension Service Price Oct-Dec Departures Athens Extension $395 Single Supplement $255 Feb-March Departures Athens Extension $299 Single Room Supplement $175

Departure Airport: This tour departs from New York Kennedy International (JFK). Ask about availability and prices for connecting flights from other cities.

Travel Insurance: Our comprehensive policy is available for only $129 per person and is strongly recommended to protect your investment.

Important Note: Due to the unique nature of this program, all payments are non-refundable once made. We strongly recommend travel insurance to cover losses should you have to cancel or interrupt your cruise for any covered reason. Whether you take advantage of our own wholesale policy for $129, or you purchase other coverage, we urge you to protect your vacation investment.

Shop & Compare

Our tours may look similar to others you've seen, but we invite you to shop & compare. There are important differences that make Friendly Planet tours the best you can find.

No Compromise on Quality: Despite our extraordinary prices, there are no compromises on our Classical Greece cruise/tours.

Included Features:  Enjoy included standard inside cabin accommodations on your cruise. Your transfers are all included, not expensive extras as in other tours. And breakfast and dinner daily are included as well in your low tour price.

Credit Cards or Cash: You asked, and we listened! Whether you pay by check, money order or your favorite major credit card, your tour price on this tour is the same. No extra cost to charge your dream vacation to Greece. Credit Card Authorization Form.

Personal Service: Most important of all, the extra ingredient that makes our tours stand apart from others—the wonderful, personal attention you'll receive from our friendly staff in the USA and our representatives in Greece —is completely free of charge. Compare our Greece programs to others, feature for feature. You'll see for yourself that ours are the very best value for money you'll find anywhere.

Flight Schedule: Click here for a full flight schedule.

About easyCruise: easyCruise offers an on board Classical Greece Cruise Coordinator to help you explore the sites of ancient Greece as the cruise unfolds. In addition, easyCruise also invites guest lecturers to accompany certain excursions to provide additional insight into the history and importance of the sites visited. You'll also find plentiful books and novels on board to browse and buy for more information and interest.

Transfers: Transfers for this tour are provided on a group basis only. For land-only passengers or for passengers deviating in any way from the group program, transfers are not provided. Individual, private transfers can be arranged at a supplement in price. Taxis and other forms of transportation are also available and may cost less than private transfers. If you wish to arrange private transfers, please request this service at the time of reservation.

Waitlisting on Sold-Out Departures: If your preferred departure is sold out, you can place yourself on a waitlist by completing the online reservation form and submitting it to us. Just click on the "waitlist" button, complete the form and click "submit". In the comments box at the very bottom of the form, please write any notes regarding your request, especially any flexibility you might have in your dates of travel. This way, if your first choice doesn't clear, we can try for a second or third choice. We will make every effort to clear your space in a timely way so that you can join us on tour. You do not need to send any deposits for waitlists. When we clear your space, we'll contact you immediately by phone or email, and if you still wish to travel, we will arrange for deposits or payments at that time. We regret that we cannot accept waitlists beyond 35 days prior to departure. If you see "sold out" next to the dates you wish to reserve or waitlist, please note that this departure is now closed, including waitlist possibilities.

Flight Schedule: Click here for a full flight schedule.

Already Booked? Print and complete your Tour Registration Form (PDF).

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* Some tour prices reflect an early booking discount on select dates. Prices do not include Additional Taxes, Fees & September 11th Security Fee.

Though we do our best to provide accurate and up-to-date information on our site about our tours, sometimes oversights and typographical errors can occur. Please confirm all tour prices and details with us via email or phone prior to booking. We will not be held responsible for misunderstandings arising from such errors.