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Discover Ancient Greece on a Small Ship Cruise
April 27 - May 7, 2025
Imagine yourself sailing through the azure waters of the Aegean Sea, surrounded by picturesque Greek islands. The Belle de L'Adriatique is a small cruise ship with a maximum capacity of 200 passengers and will be your home away from home as you voyage back in time. Join Defined Destinations and St. Louis's own, Mark Reardon, on this intimate excursion to explore ancient Greece and its extraordinary natural beauty. We’ll discover historical sites, stroll through cobbled streets, and soak up the sun on pristine beaches and aboard our ship.
We’ll visit the charming white-washed villages of Santorini, the medieval charm of Rhodes, the hidden gems of Milos, and the tranquil beauty of Amorgos and Syros. We'll enjoy local dishes in both traditional and contemporary presentations, sample regional wines (and olive oil!), and learn about the birthplace of Western Civilization from our guides and the people you meet in your ample free time.
Join us this April 2025 and let Defined Destinations take care of everything, while you focus on enjoying the magic of Greece.
Highlights & Inclusions:
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7 Nights Aboard the The Belle de L'Adriatique
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Pre-Cruise Excursion in Athens - a UNESCO site - 1 Night Hotel Athens
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Pre-Cruise Overnight Roadtrip Through Small Towns and Countryside - 1 Night Hotel Nafplio
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All Meals and Drinks Included Onboard
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Exclusive Welcome & Farewell Dinner
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Professional Tour Director
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Local Tour Guides
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Ports of call in:
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Amorgos
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Santorini
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Milos
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Rhodes, and
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Syros
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Local Olive Oil and Wine Tastings
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Delicious Food Experiences On and Off Ship
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Intimate Cruise Experience
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Max capacity - 197 passeners
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Sun deck, loungers, and two jacuzzis
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Bars, lounges, dance floor
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Elegant dining room with panoramic views
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Built-in leisure time throughout the trip
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And so much more!
Day 1: April 27
Fly To Athens
Depart Lambert International Airport in St. Louis for our overnight flight and wake up in Greece!
Day 2: April 28th
Arrive in Athens, Greece
Right off the bat, we'll explore Athens' iconic sites with a walking tour to stretch our legs and take in the sights. We'll pass the ancient ruins of the Acropolis including the Temple of Zeus and Hadrian's Arch, and we'll soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Athens' Plaka district. We'll then meet for our Welcome Dinner to indulge in authentic Greek cuisine and sample the region's fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. We'll rest up in Athens overnight and get ready for tomorrow's road trip through the Greek countryside.
Meals included: Welcome Dinner
Day 3: April 29th
Roadtrip Through Time - The Argolis Region
Our journey continues to the historic Argolis region with a roadtrip through its picturesque countryside with stunning coastal views. With our local guide narrating through the day, we'll hit the lesser-visited historic towns of the region. Our first stop will be the Corinth Canal, a remarkable engineering feat connecting the Gulf of Corinth to the Saronic Gulf. Next, we'll explore the ancient theater of Epidaurus, renowned for its acoustics and historic performances. We'll then delve into the mythical world of Mycenae, home to the legendary Lion Gate and the Grave Circle. Finally, we'll end our day in the charming town of Nafplio, known for its picturesque Venetian architecture and cobblestone streets, and we'll relive the day's adventures over local fare.
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 4: April 30th
Morning in Nafplio and Boarding Our Ship
We wake up in Nafplio, Greece's first capital, and begin our day with a leisurely tour through one of Greece's most romantic cities. Admire the architecture, soak up the vibrant atmosphere, and explore the city's historic landmarks. As you wander, you'll be captivated by the scent of basil and jasmine, while traces of the Franks, Venetians, and Ottomans can be seen around every corner. After our relaxing morning, we'll drive back to Athens, board our ship, and check out our rooms. We'll then meet the crew, enjoy a welcome dinner, and relax with an evening of entertainment. We still have one more day to explore Athens, but we'll be settled in our home on water!
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 5: May 1st
Explore Antiquity in and Around Athens
Today, you pick your adventure - the ancient ruins of Athens or the tranquil setting of the Kaisariani Monastery. In Athens, we'll explore the majestic Acropolis perched atop a rocky outcrop and marvel at the iconic Parthenon, Propylaea, Erechteion, and the Temple of Athena Nike - remnants all of a glorious civilization. For those opting for a more intimate experience, we'll discover the Kaisariani Monastery nestled in the verdant slopes of Mount Hymettus. This Eastern Orthodox monastery offers a peaceful escape from the city's bustle with soothing frescoes and serene gardens.
As the sun sets, we return to the Sun Deck of La Belle De L'Adriatique and prepare to set sail.
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 6: May 2nd
Cruise to the Island of Syros
Explore the enchanting island of Syros, a captivating blend of Venetian charm and Cycladic architecture. Discover the magnificent city of Ano Syros, perched atop a hill overlooking the Aegean Sea. Stroll through the narrow cobbled streets, admire the colorful houses, and soak up the island's unique atmosphere. Venture into Ermoupolis, the island's capital, and experience its "retro" vibe, and then enjoy some free time to explore the city at your own pace.
As the ship cruises the Aegean Sea, immerse yourself in the rich history and mythology of this legendary body of water. Join an onboard presentation to learn about the tales of ancient Greece, from The Odyssey to Atlantis.
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 7: May 3rd
Amorgos-A Cliffside Oasis
Discover the breathtaking island of Amorgos, a hidden gem in the Aegean Sea. Begin your adventure at the iconic Panagia Hozoviotissa Monastery, perched precariously on a cliffside. Climb the steps to the monastery and be rewarded with panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. Experience the warm hospitality of the monks and savor traditional Greek treats before exploring the picturesque capital of Chora. Enjoy your free time by wandering through the charming streets, shopping for souvenirs, or just taking in the island's peaceful atmosphere. As the day comes to a close, we'll set sail through the Dodecanese archipelago, a region renowned for its medieval architecture and pristine beaches. Get ready for a breathtaking journey filled with stunning landscapes and unforgettable experiences.
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 8: May 4th
Rhodes-A Medieval Marvel
Visit the historic island of Rhodes, a captivating blend of medieval charm and modern-day allure. Immerse yourself in the island's rich history as you wander through the labyrinthine streets of the medieval city. Discover the ancient fortress, bastions, walls, and gates that stand as a testament to Rhodes' past. Visit the iconic Kos Town Castle, a magnificent fortress built by the Knights of Saint John during their rule. Explore the castle's interior and learn about the island's fascinating history. In the afternoon, take your free time to choose between exploring the picturesque fishing village of Lindos or relaxing on the golden sands of Faliraki Beach. As the day comes to a close, embark on a night cruise through the Aegean Sea, under a starry sky.
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 9: May 5th
Santorini-Whitewashed in Wonder
We'll cruise through the stunning Cyclades archipelago, renowned for its picturesque beaches, white-washed architecture, and traditional lifestyle.
In the afternoon, embark on a magical journey to the legendary island of Santorini. Travel by rowboat to this volcanic paradise, once believed to be the mythical island of Atlantis. Explore the breathtaking caldera, a volcanic crater that plunges into the sea.
Enjoy a panoramic tour of the island, taking in the stunning landscapes and visiting iconic sites like Profitis Ilias Mountain. Wander through the charming streets of Oia, a picturesque village painted in white and blue. As the sun begins to set, experience the magic of Santorini at Fira, a village perched on the edge of the caldera. Tonight, savor a delicious Greek dinner on the Sun Deck and enjoy the tranquility of the Aegean Sea as the sun dips below the horizon.
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 10: May 6th
Milos-Beaches and History
Enjoy a leisurely morning in the charming village of Adamantas, exploring the narrow streets and indulging in local delicacies. In the afternoon, embark on a panoramic tour of Milos, discovering the island's rich history and stunning landscapes. Explore the otherworldly Sarakiniko Beach, a lunar-like landscape sculpted by the sea. Visit the ancient Roman Theater, perched on a hillside with breathtaking views of the bay. Discover the picturesque fishing village of Klima, renowned for its colorful houses, and stroll through the historic capital of Plaka. As the day comes to a close, our ship will cruise back to Athens and celebrate your unforgettable Greek adventure with a festive gala evening.
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 11: May 7th
Disembark and Fly Home
Savor a final breakfast on board before disembarking at Piraeus Harbor. As you bid farewell to Greece, take a moment to reflect on the incredible memories you've created, the food you enjoyed, and the blend of meeting new friends and getting away from it all on your free time. The ship docks near Athens around 6AM - do not book flights before 10AM to be sure you have time to arrive at the airport.
La Belle de L'Adriatique
The La Belle de l’Adriatique features a contemporary and warm setting for exploring the historic coasts of the Aegean Sea. The aqua-green interior colors and crisp design enhance the setting as we glide past rocky islands and sail the azure water.
The Belle's four-deck layout provides an up close and intimate experience and only accommodates only 197 passengers onboard. This is small ship cruising at its finest.
All cabins have a view with exterior windows or portholes depending on your room selection. All meals are served on the main deck in the spacious dining room, and the main panoramic lounge has a dance floor and bar for lively evenings. Finally, the sun deck is a great space to take in the sights and just relax in a comfy lounger or one of two jacuzzis.
The Belle de L'Adriatique is a gem and its waiting to serve as your home away from home, as you explore the beauty and history of Greece.
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Tour Price:
LOWER DECK (1st Level)
CABIN RATE
$6,299
PER PERSON
Lower deck cabins
(118 sq. ft with portholes)
Fully air-conditioned cabins, safe deposit box, TV, internal phone.
(Based on 2 people in a cabin)
Airfare is NOT included.
EMBARKATION DECK
(3rd Level) CABIN RATE
$6,699
PER PERSON
Embarkation deck cabins
(113-130 sq. ft with windows)
Fully air-conditioned cabins, safe deposit box, TV, internal phone.
(Based on 2 people in a cabin)
Airfare is NOT included.
AIRFARE QUOTES
$1,400
PER PERSON
Actual flight details and itinerary are in the 'Book Tour' section.
MAIN DECK (2nd Level)
CABIN RATE
$6,599
PER PERSON
Main deck cabins
(113-130 sq. ft with portholes)
Fully air-conditioned cabins, safe deposit box, TV, internal phone.
(Based on 2 people in a cabin)
Airfare is NOT included.
UPPER DECK (4th Level)
CABIN RATE
$6,699
PER PERSON
Upper deck cabins
(113-130 sq. ft with windows)
Fully air-conditioned cabins, safe deposit box, TV, internal phone.
(Based on 2 people in a cabin)
Airfare is NOT included.
Group Airfare Considerations
Defined Destinations has taken the hassle out of shopping for flights and dealing with transfers by securing a roundtrip flight from St. Louis to Athens, Greece (one stop on both the outbound and return). Traveling on a group flight is great for those who like to sync up with the rest of the guests and stick together as we make our way to Greece. While you're welcome to make your own arrangements, this is a convenient way to handle long-distance travel.
Our staff can offer the quotes based on the trip schedule including if you decide to travel early or extend your stay.
Trip Deposit & Payment
To secure your spot, a non-refundable deposit of $500 per person is required upon registration. We strongly recommend purchasing Travel Insurance for your peace of mind and security. To facilitate affordable pricing, we offer the option of cash payments. The prices listed are applicable for cash transactions. Should you opt to pay with a credit card, a processing fee will be applied at the time of 'checkout'. This fee varies between 2.9% to 3.9%, depending on the type of card used.
Final Payment is Due on January 27, 2025
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