We are thrilled to embark on our 3rd incredible cruise with Seawind Tours & Travel and Chef Alan Wong as we continue exploring the world together. Our previous trips with Seawind Tours offered exceptional pairing of cuisine and culture. This will be our 2nd sailing aboard the elegant Crystal Symphony.
Pre-Cruise
We begin our journey in the City of Lights with a luxury 3-night stay at The Peninsula Paris. We have enjoyed the timeless elegance and world-class hospitality of Peninsula in Tokyo and London. We immersed ourselves in the beauty of Paris, indulging in curated experiences that showcase its rich history, art, and cuisine.
Ports of Call
Piraeus (Athens), Greece – July 1
Athens, Greece, is a city brimming with ancient wonders and vibrant modern life. To truly experience it, we start with the Acropolis, marveling at the Parthenon and its breathtaking views. Delve into history at the Acropolis Museum, home to incredible artifacts. Wander through the Plaka district, a charming neighborhood with winding alleys, traditional tavernas, and souvenir shops. Immersed ourselves in Greek mythology and history at the Ancient Agora and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. For a modern touch, we explored the trendy Monastiraki flea market and savor delicious Greek cuisine at a local restaurant. Don’t forget to catch a stunning sunset from Lycabettus Hill for a panoramic view of the city.
Embark on Crystal Symphony: 8:00 P.M.Chania, Greece – July 2
A Journey Through History, Culture & Flavors
Experienced the essence of Crete on an immersive full-day tour, blending ancient history, spiritual heritage, and exceptional local cuisine. From historic landmarks to charming seaside towns and an authentic farm-to-table dining experience, this journey captures the very best of the island.
– Agia Triada Monastery
– Ancient Aptera
– Chania’s Old Town
– Organic Cretan Olive Farm & TastingSantorini, Greece – July 3
A Journey Through Santorini’s Timeless Beauty & Flavors
Unveiled the magic of Santorini on this immersive full-day experience, where breathtaking scenery, ancient history, and exquisite flavors come together in perfect harmony. From the island’s iconic blue-domed villages to its world-renowned wines and Minoan-era ruins, this journey showcases the very best of Greece’s most celebrated island.
– Oia – The Postcard-Perfect Village
– Santo Winery – A Taste of Santorini’s Finest Wines
– Pyrgos – A Village Steeped in Tradition
– Akrotiri Archaeological Site – A Window to the Ancient World
– Fira – Explore Santorini’s Bustling CapitalRhodes, Greece – July 4
Uncover the Ancient Wonders & Timeless Charm of Rhodes
Step into the legendary past of Rhodes, an island where ancient civilizations, medieval grandeur, and exquisite Greek flavors blend seamlessly. This full-day exploration takes you from magnificent archaeological sites to charming old-world streets, with breathtaking views and a memorable Greek culinary experience along the way.
– Lindos – A Hilltop Marvel Overlooking the Aegean
– A Taste of Rhodes – Authentic Greek Lunch
– Kamiros – The Ancient Hellenistic City
– Monte Smith Hill & The Acropolis of Rhodes
– Rhodes Old Town – A Medieval Masterpiece (UNESCO site)Kusadasi, Turkey – July 5 & 6
Unveiling the Timeless Wonders of Ephesus & Beyond
Step into the ancient world on this captivating journey through Kuşadası’s most revered landmarks. From sacred sites to awe-inspiring ruins and authentic Aegean flavors, this experience offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and culinary heritage.
– Meryem Ana Evi (House of the Virgin Mary) – A Sacred Sanctuary
– Ephesus – A Journey Through Antiquity
– Terrace Houses – The Elegant Residences of Ephesus’ Elite
– A Taste of Aegean Cuisine – Traditional Lunch in SelçukPatmos, Greece – July 7
Spiritual Heritage, Island Charm & Authentic Flavors
Discover the sacred beauty of Patmos, where biblical history, Byzantine architecture, and the rhythms of Greek island life converge. This curated experience invites you to walk in the footsteps of Saint John, wander charming village streets, and indulge in a traditional seaside lunch with stunning views.
– Grotto of the Apocalypse
– Monastery of Saint John the Theologian
– Chora Village
– Seaside Lunch in Petra Bay
– Windmills of Patmos
– Free Time in SkalaDay At Sea – July 8
Thessaloniki, Greece – July 9 & 10
A Journey Through History, Culture & Greek Gastronomy
Uncover the timeless beauty of Thessaloniki, a city where Byzantine, Roman, and Ottoman influences blend harmoniously with modern vibrancy. From ancient landmarks to panoramic views and authentic Greek cuisine, this immersive experience showcases the very best of Greece’s second-largest city.
– The White Tower – Thessaloniki’s Iconic Landmark
– The Monument to Alexander the Great
– The Rotunda & The Arch of Galerius – A Glimpse into Roman Glory
– Eptapyrgio (The Citadel of Thessaloniki) – A View from Above
– Agios Dimitrios – A Byzantine Masterpiece
– Roman Agora – The Heart of Ancient Thessaloniki
– Aristotelous Square – A Refined Greek Culinary Experience
– Leisure Time – Discover the Local Charms
Post-Cruise
Luxury 4-Night Post-Cruise Stay in Istanbul (3 nights) & Cappadocia (1 night)
Our cruise wasn’t the end of the adventure; it was just the beginning of our four-night journey through Turkey. We started by treating ourselves to two nights of pure luxury at The Peninsula Istanbul, an incredible hotel that was once an Ottoman palace. Then, for a complete change of pace, we packed light, left our big suitcases behind, and hopped on a quick flight to Cappadocia. We spent a magical night there at the Avantgarde Refined Cave Hotel before waking up for the most breathtaking sunrise hot air balloon ride. Afterward, we flew back to Istanbul and checked right back into The Peninsula for one last night of pampering. It was the perfect blend of city elegance and natural wonder.
Istanbul, Turkey – July 10-11
– Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque)
– Lunch at Matbah Restaurant
– Hagia Sophia
– Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar)
– Topkapi Palace
– Grand BazaarCappadocia, Turkey – July 13
– Goreme Open Air Museum
– Avanos – Renowned for its pottery
– Whirling Dervish Ceremony
– Balloon Ride
– Red Valley & Pasabag (Monks) Valley
– Carpet Weaving Art School
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