Greek Isles and Eastern Mediterranean

A classic such as Homer's "The Odyssey" can be read on so many levels - as a beautifully written epic poem, a masterpiece of storytelling, and as a historical insight into the Mediterranean's ancient cultures. Similarly, our itineraries here are multi-layered, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local cultures and explore as profoundly as you wish. If you have never visited Athens, you might opt to see the highlights, such as the iconic Parthenon. Or you may choose to delve more deeply and amble down the ancient streets of the Plaka and then ride the funicular up Lykavittos hill. Everywhere you sail, the options are never-ending.

Katakolon tantalizes with classic tours to famed Olympia, site of the first Olympics, and to lesser-known gems such as the idyllic Mercoury Winery. In Istanbul, there is the legendary Blue Mosque, or for a different perspective, you may explore the private Sadberk Hanim Museum while snaking up the Bosphorus on a boat cruise. Unusual excursions, such as stopping at a kibbutz in the Golan Heights and watching a Bulgarian folkloric show near Nessebur, make wonderful counterpoints to marquee attractions that include the ruins at Ephesus and the medieval walled section of Dubrovnik. Opportunities abound, encouraging you to be adventurous, much like Homer's peripatetic Odysseus.