Tanisha Connelly

Simplistic Journeys, LLC

Greek Island Cruise 2023

Sep 2, 2023 to Sep 9, 2023
Athens | Thessaloniki | Kusadasi | Crete | Santorini | Mykonos | Milos | Athens
 
SIMPLISTIC JOURNEYS PRESENTS
 GREEK ISLAND CRUISE

Athens | Thessaloniki | Kusadasi | Crete | Santorini | Mykonos | Milos | Athens

September 2, 2023 – September 9, 2023 

Idyllic Aegean 2022 from Celestyal Cruises on Vimeo.

 

Discover the rich history, fascinating culture and sumptuous cuisine of the sun-soaked Greek islands. With vivid landscapes to explore, our 7-night cruise invites you to indulge in traditional flavors, admire stunning landscapes and explore charming villages. We even include guided visits to the oldest city in Europe to explore the ancient city of Knossos Minoan Palace and the intriguing city of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved archaeological sites in the Eastern Mediterranean. Our extra special cruise takes you on a romantic and effortless Odyssey to sun-soaked shores, quaint fishing villages, and iconic historical sites. With overnights stops in the stunningly beautiful and buzzing islands of Santorini and Mykonos, you will have the opportunity to discover hidden secrets and indulge in an authentic experience of Mediterranean cuisine and the classic Greek lifestyle.

What's included in this trip:


ON BOARD DINING

We have a proud culinary tradition and love delighting our guests with a range of sumptuous recipes. Our specialty chefs lovingly prepare authentic international dishes bursting with mouthwatering flavors.

 

UNLIMITED CLASSIC DRINKS  

Enjoy the ambient lounges and admire spectacular views as you indulge in our range of coffee, tea, soda, beer, selected wine and spirits.

 

 

ONBOARD ENTERTAINMENT

You’ll never be lost for anything to do with our full program of entertainment throughout the day and in the evening.

 

PORT CHARGES AND GRATUITIES

We don’t believe in surprising guests with hidden fees so include port charges and gratuities with the final cost of your cruise so you can protect your travel budget.

What else is included?

Two Amazing Excursions!

See the source image

ANCIENT EPHESUS THROUGH THE AGES - HELLENISTIC AND ROMAN (Half Day)
Enter the ancient ruins of Ephesus and walk in the footsteps of Christian emissaries including the apostle Paul and John, and the Virgin Mary. Ephesus was a pivotal center of commerce and spirituality in its heyday and remains one of the best-preserved classical cities in the eastern Mediterranean. Second, only to Rome in size and power, this enigmatic city was highly influential in shaping the history of Greece, Asia Minor, and the emerging Christian culture. As you stroll through the marble streets and mosaic-paved sidewalks, it’s impossible not to imagine how incredible the city would have appeared in its full glory. Admire the stunning façade of the Celsus Library, the incredible Houses of the Patricians, Odeon and Agora, and the beautiful Temple of Hadrian. You will also have the opportunity to explore the local shops and bargain for finely handcrafted merchandise such as carpets, leather goods, and souvenirs, etc.
 

Minoan Palace of Knossos – 1st European Civilization 

The ancient city of Knossos, near Crete’s capital Heraklion, was the place that ‘gave birth’ to the very first civilization of Europe, the Minoans.
So, we can say with some certainty it is Europe’s oldest city. Our excursion will open up the world of the Minoans as we visit one of the continent’s most important archaeological treasures. The first excavations were undertaken in the 1870s by Minos Kalokairinos, a Cretan himself. A few decades later in the early 1900s, more work by Sir Arthur Evans from Britain brought to the world’s attention the full impressive scale of the Palace of Knossos, according to legend the residence of wise King Minos.
We will be able to explore the large Central Court, the wonderful Throne Room, the imposing Grand Staircase and see the fresco of the ‘Prince of the Lilies.’ As you stroll through the palace apartments and view the archaeological finds, we think you will be just a little in awe of the rich cultural heritage of the Minoan civilization. You will undoubtedly hear the Cretan legend of the Minotaur, half man, half bull who lived in the Labyrinth and was slain by Theseus. But that’s another story. Exploring from room to room we will relive time in the Hall of the Royal Guard and the King’s Chamber, hearing about the extraordinary rule of King Minos.

What's not included:

 
  1. TRAVEL PROTECTION
  2. PRE CRUISE-MEALS  
  3. BABYSITTING SERVICES (Children are welcome onboard. Activities depend on how many children are on each cruise and will be organized on a daily basis and posted in an onboard program. There are no onboard baby-sitting services offered on the ship. 
Itinerary:
 
 
 

Day 1:  September 2, 2023

Athens - Depart 5:00 pm

 

Your idyllic 7-night Aegean escape begins in the majestic ancient city of Athens. As one of the oldest cities in the world, the vibrant modern metropolis boasts an intriguing and contrasting mix of the old and the modern architecture that is in perfect balance and harmony. Explore the city and soak up the atmosphere by the harbor’s edge as you wait to embark for your exciting adventure.

 

 

Day 2: September 3, 2023

Thessaloniki

Arrive 10:00am - Depart 7:00 pm

 

Thessaloniki is a gorgeous and cosmopolitan seaside city and the largest in Greece after Athens. Centuries of cultural commingling has also made Thessaloniki a culinary nirvana, with almost too many great restaurants and little eateries to count.

 

 

Day 3: September 4, 2023

Kusadasi (Turkey)

Arrive1:00pm- Depart 7:00 pm

 

The dynamic beach resort of Kusadasi welcomes you with its warm and friendly ambience. From here you will be whisked away for a guided tour round ancient Ephesus, one of the highlights of this iconic Aegean cruise. Before rebounding the ship, take time to enjoy the scenic seafront promenade and the town’s impressive Grand Bazaar.

 

 

Day 4 September 5, 2023

Crete (Heraklion)

Arrive 8:00 am- Depart 12:00 pm

 

As we pull into Heraklion, you have the chance to snap the imposing 16th-Century walls of Koules Fortress. Here you can enjoy the calm of the stunning waterfront, explore the Cretan countryside or discover the Palace of Knossos. This spellbinding tour invites you to listen to tales of intrigue and learn about Europe’s first civilization in the Knossos Museum. Was the Minotaur half-man or myth? You’re about to find out!

 

 

Day 5-6 September 6-7, 2023

Santorini

Arrive 7:00am - Depart 2:00 am

 

The romantic island of Santorini is the remnants of a devastating volcanic eruption in the 16th-Century BC. The picture-perfect scenery features clustered traditional whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches set against a beguiling brilliant blue backdrop. Here you will have the chance to experience the Mediterranean lifestyle of the idyllic oasis and relax in the island’s calm and tranquility.

 

 

Day 6-7: September 7-8, 2023

Mykonos

Arrive 8:00 am- Depart 2:00 am

 

The sun-drenched island of Mykonos is affectionately known as the "Island of the Winds". Easily recognized by its iconic 16th-Century windmills perched high on the hill, the vibrant Mykonos Town is an alluring landscape of smooth sandy beaches dotted along a dramatic coastline. Indulge in the islands culinary delights or take a short boat trip to. Explore the sacred island of Delos

 

 

Day 7: September 8, 2023

Milos

Arrive 9:00 am - Depart 7:00 pm

 

The volcanic origins of the beautiful Greek island of Milos are clearly evident in its complex and bewitching landscape. Here you have the opportunity to explore the dramatically surreal and sculptured looming rock formations that rise out of the crystalline waters and create the stunning coastline. Why not join a local expert to explore the many beauty spots and charming fishing villages.

 

See the source image

 

Day 8: September 9, 2023

Athens - Arrival 7:00 am

 

As we pull into the port, your cruise may be over, but your day is just beginning, and the magical city of Athens is one of the most fascinating cities in the world. Discover the heart of ancient Greece in the many historically important archaeological sites including the iconic landmark of the Acropolis or relax on the city’s beautiful beach.

 

 

Passport Required:

A passport is required and must have 2 at least 2 blank pages and must be valid 6 months beyond the last day of travel (Your passport should not expire before March 12, 2024). 

Is This Trip Right For You?

Appropriate for travelers who are physically fit, lead active lives, are comfortable participating in several hours of daily activities. This trip offers the comfort offers ocean cruise which at times can create a feeling of motion sickness.   While ashore you will have the freedom to explore on your own or take in an optional excursion. This trip is moderately active with walking done over cobbled stone streets, uneven surfaces, stairs, steps, significant slopes and unpaved trails (especially at archaeological sites), and stairs without handrails. Many sites do not have elevators and longer walks may be necessary where vehicles are prohibited. 

Covid Policy:

  • as of 2 March 2023, the requirement for pre-embarkation tests will no longer be required. 

Vaccination Mandate

  • Mandatory: Vaccination with a Greek government-approved COVID-19 vaccine or COVID-19 Recovery certificate for all guests from 12 years of age and above. If you are vaccinated for the first time with a single or double dose vaccine, a 14-day period must elapse from the latest dose before your cruise. This is not required for the booster dose, which is effective immediately. The validity of vaccination certificates is 9 months (270 days) after which a booster dose is required to maintain their validity. The validity of the recovery certificates is 6 months (180 days) after which a vaccination certificate is required. 

Cancellation policy:

If your travel plans change, refund options are limited. If you would like to cancel, you may cancel by contacting Simplistic Journeys, LLC in writing at info@simplisticjourneys.com Please title the subject as trip cancellation and include your full name as it appears on your government Identification, reservation number, reason for cancellation and phone number in the message.  Air, car, hotel, and activity no-shows will not receive any refunds for total payments made. Simplistic Journeys, LLC reserve the right to charge a cancellation fee of no less than $250 per guest plus any service fees for processing of payment to the credit card on file. This fee is in addition of the Cruise line, Hotel, Car and Air carrier fees.  Refunds must be requested at the time of cancellation and any refunds due will be issued only to the original form of payment. For this cruise No refund will be permitted on the initial deposit. For this cruise No refund will be permitted if a guest voluntarily or involuntarily does not show up for their cruise or terminates his/her cruise in progress. Cruise contracts are non-transferable. Cruise date changes are considered reservation cancellations and are subject to penalties per the cruise line penalty schedule. Please note: Cancellation Policies are subject to change by the cruise line.

Available Packages

INTERIOR
Unavailable as of December 2, 2022

$1,919.00
Deposit: $150.00 per person

Unavailable
See the source image
 
  • Deck 3, 4, 5, 6 & 7
  • Air-conditioned Cabins
  • Optional 3rd / 4th berth
  • Bathroom with Shower

OCEAN VIEW
Unavailable as of December 2, 2022

$2,320.00
Deposit: $150.00 per person

Unavailable
Exterior Stateroom  
  •  
Air-conditioned Cabin
Window or Porthole
Options with additional Sofa Bed
Bathroom with Shower
Rate is based on double occupancy
 
Category: XD Deck 6 & 7
  •  
  •  

JUNIOR BALCONY SUITE
Unavailable as of September 30, 2022

$2,210.00
Deposit: $150.00 per person

Unavailable
  See the source image 
 
Air-conditioned Suite
Balcony 
Additional Sofa bed
Refrigerated mini bar
  Rate is based on double occupancy
 
   Category: SBJ Deck 6 & 7
  •  
  •  

SUITE (NO BALCONY)
Unavailable as of September 30, 2022

$2,570.00
Deposit: $150.00 per person

Unavailable
Suite – [S] 
  •  
  • Concierge Service
  • Air-conditioned Suite
  • Additional Sofa Bed
  • Refrigerated mini bar
  • Grand Suite without balcony
  • Rate is based on double occupancy
 
Category: S Deck 6 & 7
  •  

BALCONY SUITE
Unavailable as of September 29, 2022

$2,780.00
Deposit: $150.00 per person

Unavailable
Suite – [S] 
  •  
  • Concierge Service
  • Air-conditioned Suites
  • Balcony 
  • Additional Sofa Bed
  • Refrigerated mini bar
  • Grand Suite with large balcony & private whirlpool bath
  • Rate is based on double occupancy
 
Category: SB Deck 6 & 7
  •