19-night Star Collector: Southern Italy & Northern Greece Odessey Cruise

Aug 20, 2027 - Rome (Civitavecchia)

Civitavecchia is the port city for Rome. Rome has always been and remains the Eternal City. With its splendid churches, ancient monuments and palaces, spacious parks, tree-lined boulevards, fountains, outdoor cafés and elegant shops, Rome is one of the world’s most attractive cities. Among the most famous monuments is the Colosseum where spectators watched combats between muscled gladiators and ferocious animals. Stop to see the remains of the Forum, once a political and commercial center. Rome’s squares were enhanced with such imposing structures as the Vittorio Emanuele Monument and grandiose fountains like the Fontana di Trevi. Awe at Christendom’s most magnificent church, the Sistine Chapel. The busy square Piazza Venezia is easily recognized by its imposing Vittorio Emanuele II Monument. Take a stroll to Rome's famous Trevi Fountain. Vatican City is the site of lovely St. Peter's Square and St. Peter's Basilica, where for 200 years, Renaissance masters worked on its design and created an unparalleled masterpiece. Visit Vatican Museum.

Aug 21, 2027 - Sorrento

Sorrento is a town of extraordinary beauty and is known as a popular gateway to Italy's most spectacular stretch of coastline - the Amalfi Drive lined with fishing villages and famous resorts. The seaside resort of Amalfi sits with weathered houses scrambling up steep cliffs. Visitors marvel at its location and its magnificent cathedral. The religious sanctuary of Cloister of St. Francis is worth a visit. The tiny, exclusive resort of Positano has its famous world-class hotel, San Pietro. Excavations of the ruined city of Pompeii, which was destroyed in 79 A.D. during the disastrous eruption of Mount Vesuvius, give visitors a vivid impression of life in a very wealthy ancient city and the tragic end of its population. The Isle of Capri ranks as one of the most beautiful islands and has captured visitors for centuries with excellent climate, spectacular landscape and fantastic sea caverns. Capri has lavish villas, elegant hotels, chic boutiques and quaint restaurants. Museo Correale contains a death mask of poet Torquato Tasso and some special editions of his works, pictures, furniture and porcelain.

Aug 22, 2027 - Lipari

Cast in the Tyrrhenian sea, the Lipari Islands experience an increasing amount of tourism due to unusual scenery and mild climate. The variety and beauty of rock formations, the volcanic phenomena of Stromboli and the crystalline waters always impress visitors. Local-style architecture adds charm to picturesque villages. The main islands include famous Stromboli and Lipari. In a bay on Lipari’s east coast lies the main town of the same name - dominated by the Castello or Acropolis, which separates the town’s two harbors. Within Castello are the cathedral and the former Bishop's Palace, which now houses the Archaeological Museum. It is noted for its fine collection of relics from recent excavations, Greek masks and statuettes from theatrical life as far back as Sophocles and Euripides. At Marina Corta there are hydrofoils and boats offering trips to neighboring islands. The most southern Lipari Island, Vulcano Island, has a spectacular volcanic landscape of rugged peaks rising above beaches. A steep trail leads up from the plain to a 1,150-foot crater.

Aug 23, 2027 - Valletta

Valletta is the capital of Malta. This remarkable fortified city with its massive bastions followed the most advanced Renaissance ideas in town planning, with streets laid straight on a grid looking over the Grand Harbour. Outside the 'City Gate' is the famous Triton Fountain. 'City Gate' has public buses and vendors selling soft drinks and all sorts of traditional fresh Maltese bread and sweets. Freedom Square shows an extraordinary capital with buildings of fine architecture of different tastes and styles ranging from the Mannerism to Baroque to Rococo to Neoclassicism. Valletta is a fascinating city for wandering around looking at what used to be the Knight's own cathedrals and Auberges. The city's backbone is Republic Street, which runs straight through the city center to Fort St. Elmo. Valletta has several narrow, steep side streets decorated with traditional Maltese pastel colored balconies and a statue on almost every street corner. There are plenty of shops, cafes, and restaurants to choose from.

Aug 24, 2027 - Gozo

Set in the Mediterranean Sea between Sicily and Africa, Gozo is the second largest of the Maltese islands after Malta itself. Reputed in Greek legend to be the island of Ogy'gia, where the sea nymph Calypso entertained Odysseus, it is 9 miles long and 4 miles wide . The main town of Victoria is set on hills in the middle of the island. The impressive Citadel or Gran Castello and the Ggantija prehistoric temples are worth visiting. Also take in the views from Calypso's Cave and the amazing alabaster stalactites of Ninu's Grotto. Xlendi Bay and the surrounding village is another sought after destination on Gozo. Known for scuba diving and various water sports, this picturesque town is a perfect place for relaxation.

Aug 25, 2027 - Reggio Calabria

Aug 26, 2027 - Taormina (Giardini Naxos)

It is known for its beautiful beaches and crystal clear waters of the Ionian Sea. It has a small, but prosperous fishing port. There are many hotels and restaurants and the town is ten minutes away from another of Sicily's most important tourist destinations Taormina.

Aug 27, 2027 - Taranto

Taranto is called the 'city of the two seas' as it is situated part on an island and part on the peninsula. Rich in history dating back to the 8th century BC, numerous cultures and people have left an impression in this beautiful city.

Aug 28, 2027 - Gallipoli

Originally named Kalè polis, meaning "Beautiful City", by ancient Greek mariners, Gallipoli's Old Town with its labyrinth of winding lanes emerges from the Ionian Sea and is connected to mainland modern Gallipoli via a 17th-century bridge. It is a land of farms, castles, works of art, myths and legends. Many heroic battles were fought here. In addition to its tumultuous history and natural beauty, the city’s claim to fame rests in art treasures, most notably, the Basilica of Sant’Agata which contains a rich, important art collection with numerous works by its great native son, Giovanni Andrea Coppola. Other noteworthy churches include the little church Della Puritá, San Francesco with the famous Christ and the Two Thieves by Vespasiano, Santa Chiara and San Domenico. Among other outstanding monuments are the Hellenic Fountain and the Angevin Castle. As a popular seaside resort, Gallipoli boasts unpolluted waters and sandy beaches. From here many start their travels into the delightful, unspoiled interior of the Salento region.

Aug 29, 2027 - Fiskardho

Cephalonia (Kefalonia) is the largest in area of the Ionian islands. The slopes on the eastern side of the island are covered with pine forests that run down to the sea. In ancient times Kefalonia formed part of the kingdom of Odysseus and here at least archaeologists have been able to find evidence of the ancient sites mentioned in Homer. The tombs at Krani are said to be the best examples of Mycenean tombs in Greece. Kefalonia produces excellent Robola white and red wine and for those who like a rose, the Manzavino is very good. The major earthquake of 1953 demolished every town on Cephalonia except Fiskardho. Fiskardo, the northenmost harbour on Cephalonia, has kept its traditional colour. Lying opposite and very close to Ithaca, it is surrounded by a thick cypress glade. The picturesque 19th century houses set amid green pine groves remain pretty much original. The village is named after Robert Guiscard (thus Guiscardo/Phiscardo/Fiscardho), a Norman adventurer who briefly ruled.

Aug 30, 2027 - Galaxidhi

Galaxidi lies on the Gulf of Corinth, across the bay from Itea, itself only a few miles below Delphi. The island atmosphere used to be heightened by the fact that, before the main road was built, Galaxidi was most easily reached by ferry from Itea. It has a virtually unspoiled core of grand bourgeois houses (arhontika), some of which rest on sturdy lengths of ancient wall. Cross the water to Itea and from there a short coach journey to Delphi, perhaps the most magical classical site in Greece.

Aug 30, 2027 - Corinth Canal

Sail between steep rock walls, with mere feet to spare, to save sailing around the Peloponnese.

Aug 31, 2027 - Athens (Piraeus)

Piraeus is the seaport for Athens, the capital of western civilization, which boasts a fantastic mix of classical ruins and vivacious modern life. Climb the hill of Acropolis to wonder at the Parthenon, join the lively Athenians in Constitution Square, and find a welcoming taverna for spirited bizouki music, plenty of ouzo to drink, and energetic Greek dancing. Piraeus is the largest harbor in the country. The white chapel of St. George at its summit has a theater bearing the same name. The hill of Nymphs is the site of a planetarium, which is located above magnificent Thesseio temple. Among all of these hills, Acropolis is the one that glorified Athens and the whole Greek world and became the symbol of the western civilization. Bays and small rocky or sandy coves dot the area and during the summer are filled with Athenians and foreigners enjoying their beauty.

Sep 01, 2027 - Kusadasi (Ephesus)

Visitors come to Kusadasi for beaches and nearby ruins of Ephesus. The major attraction is the archaeological site of ancient Ephesus, considered to be most important in Turkey. The history of this ancient city dates back to 10th century BC; many remarkable structures seen today are result of an excavation and restoration program. Along a white marble road grooved by ancient chariot wheels, the two-story Library of Celsus presents a striking sight. There are temples, houses of noblemen, and community buildings lining ancient streets. Nestled in the mountainside is a 25,000-seat amphitheater, still used for performances during Festival of Culture and Art. Bible buffs may know Ephesus as inspiration for St. Paul’s Epistle to Ephesians and the site of one of the first seven churches of Asia Minor. Treasures are kept in the Seljuk Archaeological Museum. Among the better-known ancient sites near Kusadasi are ancient Miletus and Dydima. Remains include a well-preserved Roman theater at Miletus and Dydima's sacred temple of Apollo.

Sep 02, 2027 - At Sea

Sep 03, 2027 - Kavala

Kavala is one of Greece's most attractive large port cities. The large community squares, modern buildings and shopping districts on the west side of the city are a pleasant contrast to the traditional homes and small gardens of the eastern side. Visitors will find charming alleyways and picturesque views of the harbor on the more traditional side of Kavala. There is also an archaeological museum containing ancient finds from Greece's past. Villages adjacent to Kavala are filled with treasures such as Early Christian Basilicas, a Roman Forum, the acropolis and a theater. Performances of ancient dramas are held in the renovated theater every summer.

Sep 04, 2027 - Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is Greece’s second largest city, busiest seaport after Piraeus, major cultural center in northern Greece, and capital of Macedonia. Prehistoric remains in the city’s vicinity show the area was settled as far back as 1000 B.C. Thessaloniki is considered more cosmopolitan than Athens. In 1997, the European Community honored the city with title of “Cultural Capital of Europe.” Although many older buildings were destroyed in a 1917 fire and during bombing attacks in World War II, the city still has historical landmarks ranging from the 15th century Venetian Tower to the Arch of Galerius. There are also magnificent churches. The main hub centers around Aristotle Square, a traffic-free area surrounded by arcades with cafes and restaurants. The pedestrian strip along the water’s edge is a popular seafront promenade. Main thoroughfares, Odos Mitropoleos and Odos Tsimski, are lined with luxury shops and boutiques. On Aristotle Street is the picturesque Central Market. Paradise Baths, a Turkish bathhouse dating from 1444, is still in use today.

Sep 05, 2027 - Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is Greece’s second largest city, busiest seaport after Piraeus, major cultural center in northern Greece, and capital of Macedonia. Prehistoric remains in the city’s vicinity show the area was settled as far back as 1000 B.C. Thessaloniki is considered more cosmopolitan than Athens. In 1997, the European Community honored the city with title of “Cultural Capital of Europe.” Although many older buildings were destroyed in a 1917 fire and during bombing attacks in World War II, the city still has historical landmarks ranging from the 15th century Venetian Tower to the Arch of Galerius. There are also magnificent churches. The main hub centers around Aristotle Square, a traffic-free area surrounded by arcades with cafes and restaurants. The pedestrian strip along the water’s edge is a popular seafront promenade. Main thoroughfares, Odos Mitropoleos and Odos Tsimski, are lined with luxury shops and boutiques. On Aristotle Street is the picturesque Central Market. Paradise Baths, a Turkish bathhouse dating from 1444, is still in use today.

Sep 06, 2027 - Volos (Meteora)

Volos is a commercial and industrial city; it is Greece’s third-largest port. The location in the gulf of the same name and near scenic Mount Pelion ensures this town an attractive setting. Interesting sites in the surrounding areas include imposing monasteries perched atop craggy mountains and a fine Archaeological Museum. Remains of Mycenaen buildings have been discovered near the river, where a palace stood around 1400 B.C. The main reason visitors come to Volos is to depart on excursions to the monasteries of Meteora.

Sep 07, 2027 - Skopelos Island

Skopelos Island is located in the western Aegen Sea, and belongs to the Greek archipelago. The population of Skopelos was recorded at 4,696 in the year 2001.This charming island is home to beautiful pristine beaches and hosts bright green terrain. Skopelos is abundant in trees, shrubs and a wide range of flora which makes this island an ideal home for migrating wildlife. There is so much to do in the island, whether you choose to sip coffee at a local coffee bar or enjoy one of the beautiful beaches nearby – Skopelos is sure keep you dreaming for months after.

Sep 08, 2027 - Athens (Piraeus)

Piraeus is the seaport for Athens, the capital of western civilization, which boasts a fantastic mix of classical ruins and vivacious modern life. Climb the hill of Acropolis to wonder at the Parthenon, join the lively Athenians in Constitution Square, and find a welcoming taverna for spirited bizouki music, plenty of ouzo to drink, and energetic Greek dancing. Piraeus is the largest harbor in the country. The white chapel of St. George at its summit has a theater bearing the same name. The hill of Nymphs is the site of a planetarium, which is located above magnificent Thesseio temple. Among all of these hills, Acropolis is the one that glorified Athens and the whole Greek world and became the symbol of the western civilization. Bays and small rocky or sandy coves dot the area and during the summer are filled with Athenians and foreigners enjoying their beauty.