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Sail from Athens through the Corinth Canal and the Dardanelles to Istanbul on a 12-day luxury yacht cruise of Greece and Türkiye.
This round-trip voyage aboard an intimate Emerald yacht links the great sites of the ancient world with the Aegean’s most celebrated islands. Glide through the narrow, ochre-walled Corinth Canal to Itea for Delphi, then call at Katakolon, gateway to Olympia, birthplace of the Olympic Games.
Wander the Venetian harbour of Chania on Crete, watch the sun set over Santorini’s caldera and enjoy an evening in glamorous Mykonos, before crossing to Kusadasi for the marble streets of Ephesus. Cruise the Dardanelles to Kepez for Gallipoli and Troy, then spend two full days in Istanbul among the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and Grand Bazaar, with a relaxing day at sea before returning to Athens.
With included excursions, an EmeraldPLUS experience, complimentary drinks, Wi-Fi, e-bikes and water toys on Marina days, plus all gratuities and port charges, every detail is taken care of.
Your enthralling voyage begins in Greece and the ancient capital of Athens, a historic city that presents a remarkable blend of rich heritage and modern dynamism. From here, you’ll be transferred to your luxury Emerald yacht for the start of your unforgettable Mediterranean odyssey.
Please book your flight to arrive into Athens prior to 04:00 PM.
Inclusions: Dinner
Day 2 - Transit the Corinth Canal - Itea, Greece
A narrow waterway that connects the Gulf of Corinth with the Saronic Gulf in Greece, the Corinth Canal is a 19th-century feat of engineering. As your luxury yacht passes through this slender canal, appreciate the stunning views of the soaring, ochre-coloured cliffs. Afterwards, arrive in the picturesque town of Itea, gateway to the ancient ruins of Delphi, a World Heritage Site and one of the nation’s most important archaeological and mythological areas. The ancient Greeks considered Delphi to be the centre of the world.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3 - Katakolon, Greece
Located on the western shores of the Peloponnese peninsula, the small seaside town of Katakolon is best known as the gateway to the ancient archaeological site of Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games and now a World Heritage Site. Explore these important ruins, arguably the most celebrated sacred site of Ancient Greece, which include the Temple of Zeus and the original Olympic stadium.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4 - Chania, Crete, Greece
Welcome to Chania, a charming coastal town located on the northwest coast of the island of Crete. Chania is known for its picturesque Venetian harbour, narrow winding streets and vibrant atmosphere. The town boasts a rich history that is evident in its eclectic blend of architectural styles, with Venetian, Ottoman and Greek influences. Here, spend your day relaxing on one of the beautiful beaches, exploring historical sites, or hiking through lush landscapes.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5 - Santorini, Greece
One of the world’s most photogenic islands, Santorini enchants with its whitewashed buildings cascading down dramatic cliffs overlooking the Aegean. Arriving by sea at Santorini offers a breathtaking first impression. Visit the main town of Fira for breathtaking caldera views or charming Oia, where blue-domed churches and cascading bougainvillea create postcard-worthy scenes in narrow lanes. Relax on distinctive volcanic-sand beaches or sample crisp local wines cultivated in mineral-rich soil. As you sail away, the sun sinks into the Aegean and Santorini’s legendary sunset paints the sky in hues of gold and crimson – a moment to cherish forever.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6 - Mykonos, Greece
Arrive in glamorous Mykonos today, where Cycladic charm meets a cosmopolitan flair. Lose yourself in the maze of narrow lanes lined with whitewashed houses and chapels. Discover chic boutiques, waterfront tavernas and the island’s iconic windmills overlooking the Aegean. As evening falls, Mykonos reveals its vibrant energy, offering the perfect blend of tradition and modern sophistication.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7 - Kusadasi, Türkiye
Set along Turkey’s western Aegean coast, Kusadasi is a lively Turkish coastal town rich in history and culture. Its strategic location has made it a crossroads of civilisations for thousands of years. From here, you may explore the nearby ancient city of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved classical cities in the Mediterranean. Wander along marble streets lined with grand columns, temples, and the magnificent Library of Celsus. Back in Kusadasi, vibrant bazaars and seaside promenades offer a colourful taste of Turkish hospitality.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8 - Cruising through the Dardanelles - Kepez, Türkiye
The Dardanelles is a breathtaking strait that connects the Aegean Sea to the Sea of Marmara, a small inland sea within the borders of Turkey. As you cruise through this narrow waterway and take in the breathtaking views, you can learn all about the region's rich history, including its importance in various conflicts throughout the centuries. Later, you’ll arrive in Kepez, the port for Çanakkale, the historic gateway to the fabled city of Troy. Explore the moving World War I memorials at Gallipoli or visit Troy’s archaeological ruins.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9 - Istanbul, Türkiye
Resting at the crossroads of Europe and Asia for 8,500 years, Istanbul is a dynamic city drenched in history, the former legendary capital of Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires. This rich tapestry of history is reflected in the city's classic architecture, with iconic landmarks such as the magnificent Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10 - Istanbul, Türkiye
Istanbul is also known for its vibrant markets, such as the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar, where you can enjoy shopping for local goods and sample traditional Turkish cuisine.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 11 - At Sea
Savour the final day of this adventure of a lifetime with a relaxing day at sea. Enjoy the lavish comforts of your contemporary, stylish yacht: slide into the infinity-style pool where the sparkling azure water blurs with the horizon, ascend to the Sky Deck to drink in the breathtaking panoramic views, or unwind in the tranquil Observation Lounge.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 12 - Athens (Piraeus), Greece
Your luxurious cruise concludes as you return to the Greek capital, Athens, the ancient birthplace of democracy and Western civilisation. After saying farewell to your fellow guests and crew, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your return flight home, or to continue your holiday.
Please book your flight to depart out of Athens after 01:00 PM.
Inclusions: Breakfast
The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such, Emerald Cruises cannot guarantee the cruise will be operated unaltered from the itinerary stated above.
*Advertised pricing is per person, twin share, based on the 30 September 2028 departure and includes applicable Earlybird savings and exclusive PHT savings of $250 pp. Valid for new bookings made by 31 October 2026. Pricing and offers are subject to availability and may change or be withdrawn without notice. Correct as of 7 October 2026. ^Operates aboard Emerald Raiya; the 2028 departure operates aboard Emerald Azzurra.
Booking terms and conditions apply.
*
Term and conditions apply: All pricing subject to change and availability. Advertised prices are per person twin share unless stated otherwise. Offers may be withdrawn at any time. Itineraries are subject to change. Booking Conditions and Phil Hoffmann Travel Schedule of Professionalism* applies. Please speak to your Phil Hoffmann Travel Consultant for more information.
