Join us on a mesmerising voyage to discover the romance and the mystery of the Eastern Mediterranean as we follow in the footsteps of St. Paul the Apostle. As we journey through the emerald waters of the sun-soaked Cyclades and the stunning coastline of Turkey, this wonderful 7-night adventure invites you to explore iconic landmarks, savor authentic cuisine and discover the trials and tribulations of St. Paul’s epic journey to the Eastern Mediterranean region.
As you explore the captivating coastal towns and discover charming Byzantine monuments you will learn about how St. Paul’s controversial ideas sparked riots and cast him into prison. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to visit famous landmarks including the Hagia Sophia, the Holy Grotto of the Apocalypse, the Faustina Baths of Miletus and ancient Ephesus, the best-preserved historical site in the Eastern Med.
DAY 1
16.00
ATHENS (GREECE)
Your fascinatins 7 night Steps of St. Paul journey begings in the magical city of Athens. The Greek capital is one od the oldest cities in the world and home to the iconic landmark of the Acropolis. Take your time to discover the heritage, history and culture that is firmly embedded in the heart of this captivating modern metropolis before joining us onboard as we head for Thessaloniki.
DAY 2
09.00-20.00
THESSALONIKI (GREECE)
Following the path of St. Paul’s Second Missionary in Europe, leads you beyond the imposing Byzantine walls that guard the sophisticated port city of Thessaloniki. The beguiling architecture and meandering cobblestones streets are pleasure to explore, topped only by the captivating site of the biblical city Berroia, known today as Veria. Join your expert guide to hear all about St. Paul’s tribulations as he tried to win over the noble Jews that lived here.
DAY 3
08.00-16.00
KAVALA (GREECE)
The seaport resort of Kavala perched on the slopes of Mt Symvolo offers spectacular panoramic views. It was here that St Paul baptised the first Greek and European Christian convert, Lydia, and gave his first sermon. Visit the open-air baptisery, the monument that honours the Saint and the prison ruins where he was held captive with St Silas or join our specialist guide for a fascinating excursion to Neapolis and Philippi.
DAY 4
09.30-20.00
ISTANBUL (TURKEY)
The vibrant city of Istanbul straddles the continents of Europe and Asia via Bosphorus Strait. Here you can visit the lavish Byzantine and Imperial mosques which pierce Istanbul’s skyline with their towering minarets. The iconic Sultanahmet (blue) mosque, the Romanesque Hippodrome, Topkapi Palace and the world-famous Church of Hagia Sophia are just a few of the enigmatic attractions to admire.
DAY 5
12.00-20.00
DIKILI (TURKEY)
Snaking its way along the beautiful coastline of Turkey’s seafront city of Dikili is a lush landscape of green forestry and expansive golden sands. Sparkling crystalline turquoise waters complete the captivating scenery. Here you have the opportunity to visit the Ancient Pergamon and the ancient Acropolis. The remains of the healing temple of Asklepion is the final stop of the day.
DAY 6
08.00-23.30
KUSADASI (TURKEY)
In Turkey’s picturesque seaside resort of Kusadasi, St Paul wrote a letter to the Ephesians and preached at the Great Theatre of Ephesus. The second-largest city of the Roman Empire is also the home of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World – the Temple of Artemis. You will learn about this and more on our complimentary tour to ancient Ephesus and the city of Miletus.
DAY 7
07.00-18.30
PATMOS (GREECE)
Patmos is the smallest of the Greek Dodecanese islands and also its most spiritual. The tranquil island is famously known for being the location where John the Baptist experienced the vision that inspired the Book or Revelations. The last remaining disciple was banished to Patmos by Rome. Follow in the footsteps of pilgrims to St. John’s Monastery and the Holy Grotto of the Apocalypse.
DAY 8
06.00
ATHENS (GREECE)
We arrive back in the Greek capital of Athens early, giving the entire day to do as you please in the beating heart of Greece. However, you do not have to to leave us just yet. Our expert guides are waiting to escort you on a mesmerising trip to eitheir the anceint Corinth and Bema of St Paul or show you the highlights of the ancient Acropolis.
COMPLIMENTARY ON BOARD DINING
An all-inclusive cruise Vacation in the Mediterranean with Celestyal Cruises is not only an adventure to romantic destinations but a scintillating gastronomic journey as well. Our highly trained team of chefs lovingly prepare a delectable choice of exquisite recipes using fresh, local ingredients gathered as we travel.
We pride ourselves on introducing our guests to international cuisine blended with Greek gastronomy. Treat yourself to three wholesome meals a day served to the highest standards, and place your orders for specific dietary requirements with our staff.
UNLIMITED CLASSIC DRINKS
Our unlimited drinks package gives you access to a range of classic drinks for you to enjoy morning, noon and night. With unlimited privileges to alcoholic and non-alcoholic, you are free to enjoy your favorite tipples in our ambient lounges, around the pool, watching the sunset from the deck.
SELECT SHORE EXCURSIONS
Our cruise itineraries feature romantic shore excursions that boast some of the most iconic archaeological sites and idyllic landscapes in the world. To make the most of your cruise experience, we have selected the most fascinating onshore excursions for you to discover at each destination. Classic attractions such as ancient Ephesus, the Minoan Palace of Knossos, and the pyramids of Giza are included in the cost of the cruise!
Each of our shore excursions has been carefully handpicked with the help of our certified guides. We take great pride in delivering an authentic experience and guarantee our onshore excursions introduce you to the culture, history and magical charm of the Eastern Mediterranean.
ONBOARD ENTERTAINMENT
With an extensive daily program of onboard entertainment, we promise you will have a fun-filled experience during your time with us. And you may even discover a new passion! Why not unleash your creativity and unwind with an interactive art and crafts lesson, learn to dance the Sirtaki, Kalamatianos and Ballos or take a Greek language class and practice your new skills with the locals at the next port.
We also have a host of fun activities including bingo, keep fit and sports activities, and Zumba classes. And you won’t want to miss our skilled chef’s performing live demonstrations of how they prepare the delicious recipes from our buffet and a la carte menu.
PORT CHARGES AND GRATUITIES
Cruise gratuities can put a serious dent in your vacation budget so when you sail with us all your port fees, service charges and crew gratuities are already included with the cost of your ticket.
The Cruise is designed to enrich your cruise experience so you can enjoy your cruise experience from start to finish. Our principal concern is to ensure you have a wonderful vacation and our all-inclusive offer enables you to plan and manage your vacation budget with confidence.
We have carefully handpicked a selection of classic drinks to choose from including beers, house wines, non-alcoholic cocktails, spirits, soft drinks, exotic teas and coffee, and a special variety of delicious Greek beverages.
