Eastern Mediterranean
Contact Travel House at 847-381-0600 for more details.
Myths and Legends – Istanbul to Athens
This remarkable voyage begins with an evening in mosque-dotted Istanbul, a city that has adeptly united the old and new. Don’t miss exploring Topkapi Palace, home to the sultan’s extravagant riches. After a day exploring the irresistible charms of ancient Ephesus, discover five Grecian gems in four days. The first morning is spent in laid-back Rhodes, which tempts with such beaches as lively Faliraki. Then it’s on to the ancient Minoan stronghold of Aghios Nikolaos and the shopping paradise of Santorini. Spend the morning exploring sacred Delos, deemed the birthplace of Apollo; and the afternoon exploring beguiling Mykonos. April 27, 2011 – 7-Night Voyage
Wonders of the Aegean – Athens to Venice
Bask in the glory of ancient monuments on this voyage to six of the Mediterranean’s most intriguing destinations. Discover Turkey’s treasure-trove of ancient sites at Ephesus, sail to picturesque Santorini, where you can indulge your palate with a connoisseur’s selection of the island’s renowned wines. In Olympia, birthplace of the modern Olympics, walk of the Sacred Grove and view the Statue of Zeus, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Tour colorful Corfu in a traditional horse-drawn carriage, kayak the blue waters of the Adriatic from historic Dubrovnik. Your voyage ends with an overnight set amid the sights of fabled Venice. May 4, 2011 – 7-Night Voyage
Three Seas Adventure – Dubai to Rome
Like a necklace of gems spanning three seas, Seven Seas Voyager’s ports-of-call on this 20-Night cruise are among the region’s most memorable and alluring. In Muscat, thrill to a cruise aboard a traditional dhow or perhaps you’ll join us on a dolphin-watching expedition in the crystal-blue waters off Bander Khiran. From Salalah, embark on the ages-old Frankincense trail; witness first hand the ancient method of tapping the frankincense tree while camels meander in the dry wadis. With generous overnights in Luxor, Cairo and Tel Aviv, travel back through the aeons to The Valley of the Kings, the Pyramids of Giza, and Jerusalem and the treasures of the Holy land. May 4, 2011 – 20-Night Voyage
Path of Ancient Cultures – Athens to Istanbul
A virtuoso performance, this voyage rounds the eastern Mediterranean on a leisurely journey that encompasses all of its most provocative destinations. Wander through the catacombs and mosaic-floored Roman Theater in Alexandria. Overnight in Tel Aviv and explore Jerusalem, Massada, the Dead Sea and other unforgettable sights of the Holy Land. Ancient myths come spectacularly to life on Cyprus, and on the island of Rhodes, admire the views from the Arcopolis of Lindo, then walk the labyrinth of narrow cobbled streets and flower-laden courtyards. The opportunities go on and on, beautifully crowned by a final evening in Istanbul. June 17, 2011 – 12-Night Voyage
Turkish Delights – Istanbul to Athens
Spend a week-long sojourn, sailing the Byzantine-blue waters of the Aegean, beginning with an overnight in the premier port of Istanbul. Visit such “must-see” sites as the Hippodrome, the Blue Mosque, the domed Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace and the bustling Grand Bazaar. On the island of Crete, travel to Knossos, ancient palace of King Minos and the legendary Minotaur. Serenely beautiful Delos, mythical home of the god Apollo, is a fascinating open-air museum of classical temples and splendid mosaics. In the afternoon sail to celebrated Mykonos, with its famous windmills and whitewashed homes stacked like a cubist fantasy under an adoring sun. June 29, 2011 – 7-Night Voyage
Black Sea Odyssey – Athens to Istanbul
The only voyage of the season into the magical Black Sea showcases its historic importance and boundless attractions. The heart of this voyage is spent in the Ukraine, where you may visit Odessa’s labyrinthine catacombs and Livadia Palace, the summer residence of Russia’s last tsar and site of the world-altering Yalta Conference during World War II. Affluent Bucharest also has a grandiose and controversial Palace of parliament, the world’s second largest building. One of Europe’s oldest cities, Nessebur boasts an unrivaled old quarter known for its preserved architecture, particularly its orthodox churches. July 6, 2011 – 10-Night Voyage
Adriatic Escapade – Istanbul to Venice
With overnights in Istanbul and Venice and a full day in Athens, this voyage is a travel connoisseur’s delight. Istanbul is divided by the Bosphorus, creating the only city in the world with a European and Asian side. See both facets of Istanbul on a scenic boat cruise and enjoy an intimate view of the striking 18th-century waterside mansions. Athens offers the global traveler not only the famous Acropolis but one of the world’s great repositories of antiquity, the Archaeological Museum. Tour the colorful byways of the Plaka, or shop for an endearing memento in Kolonaki.
July 16, 2011 – 10-Night Voyage
Contact Travel House at 847-381-0600 for more details.
Pearls of Peloponnesia – Venice to Athens
Making the most of every day, this spectacular voyage presents a collection of ten, absolutely classic destinations in the span of just ten days. With an overnight in Venice, there’s time to explore such “must-see’ sites as the Doge’s Palace, or view the amazing Tintoretto’s in the Scuola di San Rocco. After a day in Dubrovnik, where adventurous guests might tour through the fertile Konavle Valley, it’s all Greece and Turkey. Explore the ornate neoclassical villa of Achilleion in Corfu. Watch a fascinating cooking demonstration by Greek chefs at a tavern near Santorini and then sample their delectable creations. Behold the sacred House of the Virgin Mary in ancient Ephesus.
July 26, 2011 – 10-Night Voyage
Aegean Sojourn – Athens to Istanbul
The finest sights of Greece capture the spotlight during the auspicious beginning of the voyage. The island of Delos is so sacred it is forbidden to live here and it can only be visited during daylight. The atmosphere in Mykonos is much more spirited, so take advantage of the late departure to experience its vibrant nightlife. Sun-drenched Rhodes is blessed with many excellent beaches, but don’t overlook such historic interests as the elaborate Palace of the Grand Masters on picturesque knights Avenue. An evening in Istanbul allows time to truly absorb its multiple personalities, which reflect eastern and western cultures. August 5, 2011 – 7-Night Voyage
Empires of Antiquity – Istanbul to Athens
Like a portal opening onto the distant past, the highlights of this unforgettable voyage include extended visits to Istanbul, the Holy Land and ancient Egypt. Come with us to Antalya, the jewel of the Turkish Riviera. On sunny Cyprus, you can explore the quaint beauty of Pafos and view the famous mosaics in the House of Dionysus. With an overnight in Tel Aviv, immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of Jerusalem. Tour the Mount of Olives, the sacred Dome of the Rock and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. In Alexandria, explore the subterranean Roman Catacombs of Kom el Shquafa. August 12, 2011 – 12-Night Voyager
Lands of Myths, Seas of Fables – Athens to Venice
Every day of this memorable voyage reveals the charms and treasures of a new port. Begin on the uninhabited isle of Delos, one of the great sacred spots of the ancient world: then spend an afternoon in Mykonos and view the island’s trademark windmills, beautiful bays and pristine beaches. Amid the breathtaking scenery of Santorini, shop for unique works of ceramic art, paintings and semi-precious jewelry created by local artisans. Enjoy a glimpse of life in the Byzantine Empire in Monemvasia’s Old Town. On the verdant isle of Zakinthos, you might snorkel in the clear blue waters or just unwind on a moon-white beach. September 19, 2011 – 10-Night Voyage
Adriatic & Aegean Escapes – Venice to Istanbul
This luxurious voyage bookends with overnights in Venice and Istanbul. In Venice, you may take the opportunity to be charmed by the small offshore islands of Murano, justifiably famous for the coveted craftsmanship of its glass factory; and enchantingly colored Burano, equally famous for its delicate lacework. A leisurely Adriatic and lonian cruise offers the sites and sensations of historic Dubrovnik, Kotor and Corfu. A highlight of this cruise is a full day to explore the glory of Athens. Tour the famous Parthenon, then perhaps stroll along the Plaka, Athens’ oldest neighborhood, and enjoy a light repast in a local tavern. September 23, 2011 – 10-Night Voyage
Isles of Inspiration – Istanbul to Athens
This voyage is perfect when holiday time is at a premium. “Shop till you drop” has never been so colorful or as much fun as when you browse the 5,000 stalls and shops of Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar to find the perfect memento or gift. Kusadasi offers not only the monuments of ancient Ephesus, but you may travel further afield to the important archaeological sites of Priene, Miletus and Didyma. On Rhodes, you can opt to embark on an off-road safari through some of the Aegean’s most enticingly beautiful scenery and picture-postcard villages.
October 3, 2011 – 7-Night Voyage
Civilizations Footprint – Athens to Rome
Seldom-seen destinations of the Mediterranean are highlighted in this voyage. From Haifa, you might journey to Acre, the last bastion of the Crusader’s Kingdom of Jerusalem. Tour the fortress of the Knights of St. John; then enjoy the exotic Pillar’s Inn, once the terminus of camel caravans from all of Asia; then stop at scenic Mount Carmel. A lengthy day in Port Said allows time to travel to Cairo and view the Great Pyramids of Giza.
October 10, 2011 – 14-Night Voyage
Contact Travel House at 847-381-0600 for more details.
Aegean Allure – Athens to Istanbul
Board Seven Seas Voyager for a romantic odyssey and raise a glass of ouzo among the sun-kissed isles of the Aegean. In Nafplion, view the baroque grandeur of this former outpost of the Venetian Empire and enjoy the sweeping views from atop Palamidi Fortress. You may tour the city of Mycenae, home of the Trojan War’s legendary King Agamenon; or wander the ruins of ancient Corinth. Heraklion, Crete is your gateway to the amazing Palace of Knossos, the best preserved site of the ancient Minoan civilization. Mitilini is bedecked with millions of olive trees shimmering like silver in the noon-day sun. October 19, 2011 – 10-Night Voyage
Exotic Explorations – Istanbul to Luxor
For travelers who have compiled a “places I must see” list, this voyage will have you crossing off more than a few favorites. Among the minarets of Istanbul, you may board a yacht to view the many attractions along the Bosphorus on one of our Regent Choice excursions. Experience the ancient sites of the Holy Land and with a late night departure in Cairo, there’s time to take an optional excursion to see the Pyramids, the Great Sphinx, the Colossus of Ramses II and the 5,000 year-old Pyramid of Zoser, Snorkel the Red Sea from Sharm el Sheikh and in Aqaba tour the magnificent rose-red city of Petra. October 29, 2011 – 14-Night Voyage
Jewels of the Mediterranean – Venice to Rome
The beginning of this voyage showcases an overnight in Venice and the pleasures of the Adriatic. Under a dramatic mountain backdrop, split, Croatia is home to one of antiquity’s most imposing sites, Diocletian’s Palace. After a visit to Dubrovnik, the “jewel” of the Adriatic, enjoy a luxurious and relaxing day at sea. In Valletta, you might tour the nearby island of Gozo. This exotic island offers megalithic temples – older than Egypt’s pyramids or Stonehenge – baroque churches and amazing panoramas. Before sailing to Tuscany and the Riviera, explore La Goulette’s impressive ruins at ancient Catharge, or you may delve into the mysterious byways of Tunis’ colorful Medina.
November 10, 2011 – 10-Night Voyage
Lands of Pharaohs & Kings – Luxor to Barcelona
Can you imagine a voyage so romantic, so rich in astonishing sites and breathtaking beauty that it can change your life forever? From Aqaba you might travel to see magnificent Wadi Rum, home to some of the most striking desert scenery in the world. Stand before the Seven Pillars of Wisdom, made famous by Lawrence of Arabia, enjoy the hospitality of the local Bedouins. Venture into the heart of the Sinai from Sharm el Sheikh and tour St. Catherine’s Monastery, built on the site of Moses’ burning bush. From Ashdod in the Holy Land, experience the modern marvel that is Tel Aviv before walking the cool cobbled streets of the artist’s colony in Jaffa.
November 12, 2011 – 16-Night Voyage