Greek Isles Odyssey: Mythology, History and Cerulean Seas

Arrive in Athens, the capital city of Greece, and transfer to Lavrio, where you'll embark <i>National Geographic Orion</i> in the afternoon. Settle into your cabin and take in your first Aegean sunset at sea as we pass the Temple of Poseidon. Or explore more on a pre-voyage extension in Athens or Crete.

Today, you'll get an introduction to the beauty and history of Greece. The day begins with a Zodiac exploration of the many sea caves, bays and tiny islands that dot the southern end of the island of Antiparos, including a peek at the active archaeological site on the uninhabited island of Despotiko. This afternoon finds you near the three islets of Tigani, Panteronisi and Glaropounta, where you'll spend the afternoon swimming, kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding in the crystal-clear, turquoise waters of the Blue Lagoon.

Sifnos—a local favorite—is a peaceful, rugged island known for its sandy beaches, plethora of churches and trendy food scene. With a scenic upper <i>chora</i> (village) that invites exploration, visit quaint little churches that sit precariously on the edge of the sea. This morning, go on a scenic hike and then join a walking tour of the Kastro, with an optional cooking class at a local farm. Our Sifnos visit also offers an optional hands-on pottery experience. Spend the afternoon on board or enjoying the water at a local beach. Whatever your pace, this is the ideal place to explore on foot, whether it’s a brisk walk or a lazy stroll along the beach.

Spend the morning exploring the sea caves at Kleftiko, and if conditions allow, get in the water. This afternoon, on the charming volcanic island of Milos, view the Ancient Theater and enjoy an island tour, including a visit to the stunning Sarakiniko, a majestic other-worldly beach cove surrounded by large white volcanic stones. In the small town of Trypiti, visit the 1820 excavation site of ‘Venus de Milo,’ one of the most famous works of ancient Greek sculpture, now exhibited in the Louvre. This evening, enjoy dinner on board or explore Adamantas on your own. Be sure to stop by the famous ice cream shops.

In the morning, hike to the crater on the uninhabited island of Nea Kameni and swim in the hot springs of Palea Kameni, or choose to visit a local farm for a tour and tasting. After lunch, go ashore to the main island of remarkable Santorini—an island archipelago formed from a single volcanic cone that erupted 3,600 years ago, burying the resident Minoan culture in ash. Plan your day with a visit to the Archaeology Museum, or visit the stunning excavations at Akrotiri, an important Minoan town preserved under volcanic ash much like Pompeii, with remarkably intact houses, streets, pottery and more. This evening, have dinner ashore taking in the breathtaking sunset.

This morning, choose to go on an early hike on Naxos. Visit an olive press museum and meet the fifth-generation owners while sampling cake, oil and marmalades, or enjoy a self-guided tour of the Kastro. Alternatively, join a local artisan for a marble carving experience. Over lunch, the ship repositions to Paros where you can spend the afternoon exploring the charming Kastro, visiting a winery or walking the land with a local farmer to hear how they make dry-land farming work. Afterward, taste the fruits of their bounty. The natural beauty, incredible food and less-touristy vibe of Naxos and Paros provide an authentic Greek experience.

The island of Delos is one of the most important mythical and historical sites in Greece and a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. In myth, it’s the birthplace of the twin immortals Artemis, goddess of animals and the hunt, and Apollo, god of healing, music and light. Spend the morning surveying the Terrace of the Lions and exquisite Temple of Apollo, two of the many incredible ruins preserved here. As you go ashore in Syros, experience a walking tour of the town of Hermoupolis as the afternoon sunlight highlights its small streets and neo-Classical architecture. Enjoy a regional dance performance, and then join the performers when the time is right.

Arrive in Lavrio this morning. Enjoy a farewell breakfast on board before disembarking and transferring to the Athens airport for your flight home, or explore more on a post-voyage extension in Athens or Crete.