Ancient Perge and Antalya’s Archaeological Museum are excellent sites for understanding the lifestyle of early civilization in Turkey. Perge is the best example of a complete Roman city in the Pamphylian plain, founded by Mopsus and Calchas in the 13th century BC. Perge flourished under the Selecuid Kings, when the city was fortified for the first time. St.Paul the apostle, and his companion St. Barnabas, twice visited Perga as recorded in the bible, the Acts of the Apostles during their first missionary journey, where they preached the word before heading for and sailing from Attalia (modern-day Antalya city), 15 kilometres (9.3 mi) to the southwest, to Antioch. In the Hellenistic period, Perge’s prosperity was made in the coin minting industry. Artemis was the city’s most important deity, and her image was commonly used in art and on coins. In the city you will see the Roman Gate located on the outer wall, the Baths complex, located to the west courtyard before the Hellenistic gate and a horseshoe-shaped courtyard. See the marketplace that was surrounded by shops. Continue to Antalya’s renowned museum whose different rooms display a variety of pottery, coins, mosaics, sculptures, costumes, sarcophagi and numerous artifacts found in nearby caves. A nomad’s tent and several rooms from a typical Ottoman household showcase lifestyle eras of the region. Statues of the Greek gods, the Emperors Hadrian and Septius Serverus and their empresses are in the Classic Hall. A stunning mosaic from Xanthos depicts the infant Achilles being dangled by his mother over the River Styx. Other exhibits include Stone Age relics from the Karain Caves, and a comprehensive ethnographical collection.

Enjoy a day of sightseeing, including the highlights of the Antalya region. Firstly you will visit the ancient cities of Perge and Aspendos to view Roman and Hellenistic ruins. Perge contains ruins that date back to 1000 BC. The theatre seated 14,000 and its ruins are in relatively good condition. Here, worship of Artemis was far more important than that of the male gods, and the dominant motif used in art and on coins was Artemis of Perge. St.Paul the apostle, and his companion St. Barnabas, twice visited Perga as recorded in the bible, the Acts of the Apostles during their first missionary journey, where they preached the word before heading for and sailing from Attalia (modern-day Antalya city), 15 kilometres (9.3 mi) to the southwest, to Antioch. See the Basilica of Perge, the 2nd-century stadium, the Roman Gate located on the outer wall, the Baths complex, and the Hellenistic Gate. A colonnaded street stretches from the gate to the Nymphaeum, and the agora (marketplace) is a small rectangle surrounded by shops. Aspendos, the major port city in the Roman period, was founded on a hilltop near the Eurymedon River and later spread down to the plain. Only parts of the city have been excavated but the Roman Theatre is the best preserved in the Mediterranean. Its capacity is estimated at 20,000 people. From a distance you will see the remains of a marketplace, a basilica, shops and a Nymphaeum. Water was brought to the city through a spectacular aqueduct of which four long sections are very well preserved. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant where you will have the chance to try the delicious local specialities. After lunch continue to Antalya’s renowned museum whose different rooms display a variety of pottery, coins, mosaics, sculptures, costumes, sarcophagi and numerous artifacts found in nearby caves. A nomad’s tent and several rooms from a typical Ottoman household showcase lifestyle eras of the region. Statues of the Greek gods, the Emperors Hadrian and Septius Serverus and their empresses are in the Classic Hall. A stunning mosaic from Xanthos depicts the infant Achilles being dangled by his mother over the River Styx. Other exhibits include Stone Age relics from the Karain Caves, and a comprehensive ethnographical collection. After your visits, return to the ship.

Visit the ancient cities of Perge and Aspendos to view Roman and Hellenistic ruins. Perge contains ruins that date back to 1000 BC. The theatre seated 14,000 and its ruins are in relatively good condition. Here, worship of Artemis was far more important than that of the male gods, and the dominant motif used in art and on coins was Artemis of Perge. St.Paul the apostle, and his companion St. Barnabas, twice visited Perga as recorded in the bible, the Acts of the Apostles during their first missionary journey, where they preached the word before heading for and sailing from Attalia (modern-day Antalya city), 15 kilometres (9.3 mi) to the southwest, to Antioch. See the Basilica of Perge, the 2nd-century stadium, the Roman Gate located on the outer wall, the Baths complex, and the Hellenistic Gate. A colonnaded street stretches from the gate to the Nymphaeum, and the agora (marketplace) is a small rectangle surrounded by shops. Aspendos, the major port city in the Roman period, was founded on a hilltop near the Eurymedon River and later spread down to the plain. Only parts of the city have been excavated but the Roman Theatre is the best preserved in the Mediterranean. Its capacity is estimated at 20,000 people. From a distance you will see the remains of a marketplace, a basilica, shops and a Nymphaeum. Water was brought to the city through a spectacular aqueduct of which four long sections are very well preserved. After your visit, return to the ship.

Depart Haifa pier for the one hour drive through the Jezre'el Valley to Nazareth, Childhood home of Jesus, called the City of the Annunciation. Nazareth is revered as the spot where the angel Gabriel appeared to Mary, telling her that she would bear the Son of God. Your visit includes the Church of annunciation, built on the site where Mary is said to have lived and where she received Gabriel’s message. Inside the church you will see the 2000 years old Grotto, the Byzantine mosaics surrounding it and the 12th century Crusaders' wall belonging to earlier churches built here during the course of the years. You will also visit the Church of St. Joseph, where Joseph’s carpentry workshop is believed to have stood. Below ground level an important Judeo /Christian ritual bath (Mikveh) is preserved. Drive on via Cana, where Jesus performed his first miracle attending a wedding: he turned water to wine. The road takes you down, over 200 meters below sea level, to the Jordan Valley. Stop at Yardenit, the official Baptism site by the Jordan River. Many people come here to immerse themselves in the Holy waters, dressed in white gowns. Across the Jordan River you will see the houses of the first kibbutz, Deganya, founded in 1908. After a sumptuous lunch drive to the north part of the lake and visit the Primacy Church (Mensa Christi ) on the shores of the Sea of Galilee. From here it's a five minute drive to your next destination: Capernaum, St. Peter's village, where Jesus found refuge after leaving Nazareth. In those days Capernaum was an important frontier town, situated along one of main routes between Syria and Egypt. The archaeological excavations of the site uncovered the glory of bygone days. Visit the remains of the 1st century synagogue where Jesus taught and performed miracles and the elegant 5th century synagogue built on top of the older one. Just opposite the synagogue see the remains of Peter's house. Continue to the Mount of the Beatitudes, where Jesus gave his Sermon on the Mount. Walk down the beautiful gardens to the enchanting chapel, built in 1937, offering one of Israel's most beautiful panoramas: the lake, the Jordan Valley and the Golan Heights. After a glorious day in the Galilee, proceed back to your ship in Haifa port.

Explore Caesarea Maritima, the ancient port that Herod the Great built in the 1st century B.C, naming it in honor of his benefactor, the emperor Augustus. Leave Haifa Port and drive along the Carmel coast to Caesarea. King Herod the Great transformed the city beginning in 22 BCE with the construction of its sophisticated port, warehouses, markets, great streets, bathhouses, temples and magnificent public buildings, naming it Caesarea. Every five years the city hosted gladiatorial games, sports competitions and performances. Caesarea also flourished during the Byzantine period. To the south were extensive farmlands, where cultivation continued through the Early Arab period and apparently until the 11th-century Crusader conquest. Eventually, they were buried by shifting sands. First stop at the new visitors' center. Here you will enjoy a multimedia presentation and an inter-active computer center, offering visitors a chance to meet virtual figures from the past, hear their stories and even ask them questions. The walking tour of the impressive archaeological excavations- the largest in the Holy Land - includes Herod's palace and swimming pool, the Roman theater, the hippodrome, the deep sea harbor , the Byzantine market and streets, the bath house ,the Crusaders fortifications and moat. At the end of the walking tour you will have some free time to explore the art galleries and artists' workshops located around the entrance. Before leaving Caesarea see the aqueduct which supplied plenty of water to ancient Caesarea from springs located 9 miles to the east of the city. Drive back to Haifa to enjoy a superb panoramic view of the city, the Baha'i Gardens and the bay from Panorama St. on Mt. Carmel, before returning to the ship.

Leave Haifa port to visit Mt. Carmel and the ancient town of Acre. Departing the port pass by the restored 19th century German Colony and climb up Mt. Carmel. Visit the Stella Maris Carmelite Monastery. Inside the Carmelite Church you will see a cave believed to be Elijah's dwelling place. Proceed to Panorama Ave. .Stop to view the Baha'i Hanging Gardens and the Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These are the largest hanging gardens in the world. The shrine is the second most holy place for the world’s Baha'i community, which includes millions worldwide. You will be astonished by the spectacular view of the gardens, the city, Haifa bay, the coastline and the entire North of Israel unfolding before your eyes. Board your coach and drive down Mt. Carmel, leaving Haifa and crossing the bay to Akko (Acre), another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Akko is the oldest city in the northern region. Over 4000 years of recorded history are waiting to be revealed as you walk its narrow cobblestone passageways and colorful bazaar. Follow in the footsteps of King David, Alexander the Great, Richard the Lion Heart and Napoleon, to mention but a few of the historic figures associated with Akko's history. The present day town was built in the 18th century by two local rulers: Daher El Omar and El-Jazzar over the ruins of the 12th century Crusader city. Acre has changed hands and names many times and since 1948 has returned to its biblical name: Akko. Visit the Crusaders' Halls, built by the Hospitaller Knights (Knights of St. John). Begin the tour at the modern visitors' center and then see the majestic halls of the subterranean Crusader city. The barrel shaped vaulted ceilings and massive pillars form an excellent background for the historic survey starting with the Crusaders era and ending with the British Mandate, when El Jazzar's palace, built in the 18th century above the Hospitallers headquarters, served as the main British prison in the Middle East. Walk past Al Jazzar's Mosque, through the lively bazaar to the fisherman's port and Khan el-Umdan ("Inn of the Pillars"), a handsome 18th century caravanserai, featuring the 2000 year old Herodian pillars, brought to Akko from Caesarea by El Jazzar. Descend to the 12th century level again, this time to visit the unforgettable Templars' Tunnel, once used exclusively by the proud Templar Knights. The tunnel stretches under the Old City and you will exit near the lighthouse and the Sea Wall. During the course of the walking tour you will have some free time to shop in the bazaar. After a morning steeped in history and adventures, return to Haifa and your ship.

Leave Haifa port and drive to Nazareth, Childhood home of Jesus, called the City of the Annunciation. Nazareth is revered as the spot where the angel Gabriel appeared to Mary, telling her that she would bear the Son of God. Your visit includes the Church of annunciation, built on the site where Mary is said to have lived and where she received Gabriel’s message and St. Joseph's Church. Drive on via Cana, where Jesus performed his first miracle attending a wedding: he turned water to wine, to the Sea of Galilee. As you approach the area a beautiful panoramic view will unfold before your eyes: the Sea of Galilee, the Golan Heights and the Jordan Valley. Stop at Yardenit, the official Baptism site by the Jordan River. Many people come here to immerse themselves in the Holy waters, dressed in white gowns. The Jordan River flows out of the Sea of Galilee to the Dead Sea at this point. After lunch drive south via the Jordan Valley to Qumran, the site where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found in 1947 and then enjoy swimming/floating in the extremely salty, mineral rich water of the Dead Sea, the lowest place on Earth. Re-board your coach and passing by Jericho drive up to Jerusalem. Check into your hotel. After dinner (served at your hotel) enjoy a narrated tour of the beautifully illuminated city, including the 16th century Old City Walls, the Knesset (Israel's Parliament) and the Shrine of the Book. Stop at Dung Gate and walk to the Western (or Wailing) Wall. This is the last vestige of the ramparts that surrounded the Holy Temple of the Jews. DAY 2 After a hearty Israeli breakfast, check out of your hotel and drive to the Mount of Olives to enjoy a magnificent view over the "Golden City" from the top of the Mount of Olives: the Temple Mount, Mount Zion, the Valley of Kidron and the vast Jewish cemetery on the slopes of the Mount of Olives. Board your coach and drive downhill to Gethsemane. It was in this Garden of olive trees that Jesus spent the last moments before his arrest. Early Christians were already holding gatherings here before the first church was built about 380 CE. Here you will visit the Church of Agony and see the ancient olive trees surrounding it. Next drive to Bethlehem and visit the Church of Nativity, built in the 4th century above the place Christ is said to have been born. The actual cave of the Nativity is a small Crypt with a vaulted masonry roof. Poor Bethlehem families used the rocky hollows of the region as stables or dwellings, so the tradition that places the Nativity in a cave is not at odds with the story of the Manger. Before leaving Bethlehem stop at a local souvenir shops for a few minutes. After lunch, board your coach for a short drive to Zion Gate. Visit the Room of the Last Supper and King David's Tomb and then walk along the Roman 2nd century Cardo in the Jewish Quarter to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. Following official recognition of Christianity, Emperor Constantine constructed here a vast sanctuary, built on what he believed was the site of Christ’s crucifixion and resurrection. Here you will see the last five Stations of the Cross. The building was destroyed in successive wars, transformed during the Persians period and then rebuilt by the Crusaders. Leave the Old City via Jaffa Gate and drive to Ashdod. Drive to the heart of the Galilee to visit On your way you will pass by Proceed via the Jezre'el Valley to Haifa and return to your ship.

Depart the port of Ashdod and drive towards Tel Aviv. Begin your tour in Old Jaffa, the ancient entry to the land of Israel. Although integrated with modern Tel Aviv, Jaffa carries an atmosphere very much of its own. Dating back around four millennia it is steeped in history: Andromeda's rock, the cedars from Lebanon, brought by King Solomon for the Temple, Jonah embarking on a ship to Tarshish, Simon the Tanner's house and more. You will see these sights as you take your guided walking tour of Old Jaffa. Continue to the attractively reconstructed Artists Quarter and see its beautiful stone buildings and arches, walk down its narrow, winding cobblestone alleys, filled with artists' galleries and studios - all the way to the archaeological park. You will have some free time in the Artists Quarter. Having enjoyed the picturesque old town, proceed to Ilana Goor's museum for a guided tour of the museum. Ilana Goor is one of Israel's leading artists and the museum is part of her private home that is open to the public. The building, located by the port, was designed and built 250 years ago. Its massive walls of golden rock, graceful arches, and calming atmosphere reflect years of work by Ilana to restore the building to its former glory – and by all accounts she has succeeded magnificently. Merging the unique laid-back atmosphere of a 4,000 year old city-on-the-sea with the vibrant energy of modern art, the Ilana Goor Museum embodies the principles that guide Ilana in her work: the old with the new, and the rural and traditional alongside the industrial and cutting-edge. The building itself combines the refined splendor of the museum's architecture with the carefully-thought-out positioning of the art work displayed all around, while the overall atmosphere is shaped by the breathtaking view of the sea visible through almost every window. It is an appropriate background to Ilana Goor's works of art and her vast art collection. Leave the museum and stroll down the renovated port area. Re-board your coach and take a narrated tour of Tel Aviv's Sea promenade, Bauhaus district and Neve Tzedek as you make your way back to Ashdod.

Depart from Ashdod Port crossing Israel from west to east: the coastal plain, the mountains of Judea and finally descend 424 meters (over 1400 feet) to the lowest place on the surface of our planet: The Dead Sea, passing on your way Jerusalem, Jericho and Qumran. Take a picture of the caves where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered in 1947and then continue driving south, passing by the nature reserve of Ein Geddi where David hid from King Saul as a young boy. Visit the Masada Fortress, located a little to the north of ancient Sodom. The mountain fortress of Masada looms high above the Dead Sea’s desolated landscape. It has often been described as the most spectacular archaeological site in Israel. Here King Herod built a luxurious refuge complete with magnificent palaces, swimming pools and excavated rock cisterns to provide water supplies. Around 73 A.D. a moving tragedy took place at this site. After a prolonged Roman siege, over 950 members of the Jewish faith took their own lives rather than risk a future of shame and slavery. A cable car will take you to the summit for a walk around the site of this heroic last stand. While ascending, notice the 'Snake Path' winding below, the Roman siege camps and the lunar landscape. Among the fascinating sights in stored for you are: the casement wall, the bath house, the magnificent three-tiered Northern palace, the synagogue, the Western palace and the Roman ramp. Having visited Masada you might want to stop for a while at the gift shop to sample the world renowned Dead Sea cosmetic products, produced from the minerals of this nature wonder. Re-board your coach and drive to Ein Bokek. Here you will have lunch at a spa hotel on the shores of the Dead Sea. After lunch take an “unsinkable” swim in the extremely salty Dead Sea. The mineral rich water, fabled for their healing powers and rejuvenating qualities will amaze you. You might even try the area's special mud! After your Dead Sea experience drive back via Arad. Observe the Bedouin nomads and their camels living in the Judean desert and Negev. The tour ends in Ashdod port.

Visit the ruined city of ancient Ephesus, founded by the Carians and Lelegs. You will see the glorious Celsius Library façade, restored and reconstructed in the 1970s, the Grand Amphitheater, and Temple of Hadrian. Visit the “Terrace Houses” located opposite the Hadrian’s Temple, a newly excavated section. The wealthy and important people of Ephesus used these houses, which are finely decorated with mosaics and frescoes giving a true impression of the ancient lifestyle. Those on the upper slopes are reached via steps and situated on the slopes of Bulbul Mountain with the roof of one house forming the terrace of the one above it. Next you will discover the beauty of Sirince village, the perfect synthesis of Turkish-Greek culture where you will stroll though the streets and see the typical Greek houses. You will have time to purchase some local handicrafts that the local village ladies sell on the streets. The village is famous for its local grape and other fruit wines, and features a charming church dedicated to St John which you can view high above the village. A private lunch has been arranged for you in a beautifully restored local building, now a private restaurant with spectacular views overlooking an amazing valley of fruit and olive trees and lots of grapevines. This hidden treasure will give you an insight into the local cuisine with the best of Turkish hospitality. Taste a few of the local wines throughout your private lunch. Upon your return to Kusadasi, you may enjoy a carpet demonstration and some time for shopping. Explore the town and return to the yacht on your own.

Ancient Ephesus is one of the greatest outdoor museums in Turkey, and perhaps in all the world. Although now in ruins, it was originally founded by the Carian and Leleg native peoples. Your two-hour walking tour begins after a 30-minute drive from the pier. Magnificent vistas await – including the glorious Celsus Library façade, (restored and reconstructed in the 1970s), the Grand Amphitheater, and the Temple of Hadrian. The Terrace Houses owned by the wealthy and influential lie opposite Hadrian’s Temple, in a newly excavated section. Their fine decorative mosaics and frescoes give a fascinating insight into ancient lifestyles. Terrace Houses on the slopes of Bulbul Mountain are accessed by steps, with their roofs forming terraces for those above. Back in Kusadasi, there’s an opportunity to witness a carpet-making demonstration, to independently explore the town or perhaps browse among the shops before taking an easy stroll back to the ship.

Take a step back in time on this excursion to the Virgin Mary’s House and ancient Ephesus. A 30-minute drive brings you to the House of the Virgin Mary, where she is said to have lived the last years of her life. It was rediscovered in the late 19th century based on the vision of a German nun. This hallowed site, which has been officially declared a Roman Catholic shrine, has hosted three Papal visits since 1967. Back aboard the coach, you take a 10-minute drive to Ephesus, where your exploration begins with the Odeon Theatre and next you will proceed to the Celsus Library and Hadrian Temple. This impressive Corinthian-style temple was was dedicated in 118 A.D. and reconstructed in the 4th century. Among the many impressive reliefs adorning its porch is a Medusa head that the Ephesians believed would protect the city from its enemies. Next you will see the Great Theatre, dating back to the Hellenistic period. During the the 1st century A.D. it was reconstructed and expanded by the Romans to a seating capacity of 25,000. It was at this monumental site that St. Paul preached. As its acoustics remain excellent, this theatre is still in use today. The Marble Road which runs between the Theater and the Celsus Library is part of a sacred walkway. On your return from Ephesus, you sip apple tea as a myriad of colors unfold before your eyes during a carpet-making demonstration. Alternatively, you may return directly to the yacht, or remain in Kusadasi to shop or explore the town independently.

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the most interesting sights in the comfort and privacy of your own van. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore. See the iconic sights of the city, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own. Capacity: 6 guests your private party may be of any size up to the maximum capacity. Private vans are ordered per vehicle (not per person)

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the most interesting sights in the comfort and privacy of your own van. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore. See the iconic sights of the city, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own. Capacity: 6 guests Your private party may be of any size up to the maximum capacity. Private vans are ordered per vehicle (not per person)

The first place you will visit on this exciting tour will be the Virgin Mary’s House. Archaeological evidence shows that the little house dates from the 6th century AD but that the foundations were from the first century AD. Next you will visit the Ephesus ruins, predominantly from the later Roman period. Visit the “Terrace Houses” located opposite the Hadrian’s Temple, a newly excavated section.The wealthy and important people of Ephesus used these houses, which are finely decorated with mosaics and frescoes giving a true impression of the ancient lifestyle. Then, the tour continues to the ruins of the Basilica of St John. The Basilica had a cruciform plan with four domes along its longitudinal axis and a pair flanking the central dome to form the arm of the cross. Under the central dome was the grave of St John. Lunch will be served at a lovely local restaurant on the way back to Kusadasi. You will have a fabulous view of the harbor and the ship. Upon your return to Kusadasi, you may enjoy a carpet demonstration and some time for shopping. Explore the town and return to the ship on your own.

Larnaca, a town with an easy-going pace, has strong links to the past. In the heart of modern Larnaca one finds remains of the ancient city-kingdom of Kition, reminiscent of its glorious days. The Mycenaean Greeks fortified the town with cyclopean walls in the 12th century while Phoenicians founded a powerful kingdom here in the 9th century. Kitio is the birthplace of the philosopher Zenon, founder of the Stoic School, and it is here that Saint Lazarus lived after his resurrection. The delightful Palm trees Promenade and its old quarters give Larnaca its unique character. A 15 minutes drive will bring us to the Palm tree promenade where the walking tour begins through the town of Larnaca. The Old fort, the traditional churches and old buildings are some of the highlights of this picturesque town. Approximately half an hour of free time will be given to enjoy a refreshment or coffee in one of the local shops.

The ancient site of Choirokoitia, is included since 1998 in UNESCO’s world Culture Heritage official list. It is the site of a Neolithic settlement found in a better state of preservation than other of this period, not only in Cyprus but in whole the Eastern Mediterranean. Five dwellings in close proximity have been reconstructed following the Neolithic model, using the same methods and traditional materials and have been furnished with copies of objects actually found during excavations, in order to give a better impression of the village as it was in antiquity. Our next stop is the picturesque village of Lefkara, famous for its silverware and handmade lace called “Lefkaritiko”. The fame of this embroidery was spread to many countries. According to the tradition, Leonardo Da Vinci visited the village in the 15th century and was amazed by the local made lace. Lefkara is too endowed with historical, natural and human riches, moreover enhanced by the preserved traditional character and architecture. The village has been built amphitheatrically around a spring, which most likely was the main reason for the initial settlement. This tour offers a fascinating exploration to the traditional village of Lefkara, where people still continue the crafts that have been handed down through generations, permitting to stroll through the narrow paved streets and admire the houses built entirely of limestone, with wooden doors and windows. We will have the opportunity to view beautiful traditional old preserved Houses, in which we bear witness of the old Cypriot way of life and admire the local crafts, Lefkara Lace and Silverware richly exhibited. There is free time to visit the lace and silver shops as well as to explore with your guide the church of the village dedicated to the Holy Cross. According to the tradition, the church was built by Agia Eleni and it contains a fragment of the true Cross. The gilt iconostasis dates from the 18th century. Our last destination is the ancient kitio where we will visit the Aggeloktisti Church. Northwest of Kiti, on a very gentle rise, stands a very interesting Church of Cyprus, the Byzantine Church of Panagia Angeloktisti (The Angel-built). According to the tradition, it was built by Angels who at midnight descended from the Heavens and built the church. Dim traces of frescoes on the walls witness that most probably the church was originally entirely painted. The most glorious item to be seen is the mosaics in the central apse, which shows the Mandona holding a Child. She stands between the Archangels Mikhail and Gabriel.

Depart from the pier for a short scenic ride first to the Grotto of St. John where the saint heard the voice of God and wrote his revelations. It was here at this most sacred spot on the island, where St. John the Theologian spent 16 months in exile, and this simple cave is now a chapel and place of pilgrimage. The Iconostases built into the cave depict St. John's visions and the spots where the saint slept, wrote, and heard "a great voice, as of a trumpet." Continue on to the Monastery of St. John the Theologian, built on an ancient acropolis. The monastery's massive 15th-century walls and 17th-century battlements looming over the town, belie an intimate and peaceful interior of arches, inlaid pebble stone floors, and whitewashed buildings. The charming chapel of Christodoulos is profusely decorated with frescoes, and the old treasury, now a museum, displays a breathtaking collection of jeweled chalices, crowns, crucifixes, vestments, and old manuscripts. Departing the monastery, stroll the nearby winding streets where houses dating back to the 16th century are linked by a maze of steps and lanes interspersed with small squares. The silent, shuttered villas are owned by Athenians who prefer this town's quiet and classical lifestyle to the hectic pace of Athens. Visit the 300-year-old Simandris House with its rich collection of antiques and architecture that presents an interesting combination of the Oriental tradition and the Western fashion favored in the 19th century. Wind down your excursion at a local taverna, where you have the opportunity to discover the "Zorba" in you as you sample tasty mezes with Greek wine or ouzo, and enjoy traditional Greek dances.

The Sacred Island of Patmos lies at the northwestern extremity of the Dodecanese between the islands of Ikaria and Leros. An island of rare beauty captivating the visitor at first glance, with its picturesque harbor dominated by the imposing Monastery of St. John standing on the hill above. Leaving Skala harbor, you take a 10-minute drive to the impressive village of Chora. The Monastery of St. John is situated amongst gleaming white houses forming a startling contrast to its dark mass. The Blessed Christodoulos, Servant of Christ, built the Monastery in 1088. It has thick, high walls crowned all around with battlements and a total of eight chapels. The courtyard is laid with pebbles and decorated with arches through which one can see the intricately designed frescoes adorning the chapel entrance. The museum houses a magnificent collection of jeweled chalices, crowns and crosses. In addition, there are old writings dating back as far as 1073, icons and religious paintings including an original El Greco. Many exhibits from the library, which unfortunately is not open to the public, can also be viewed in the museum. The tour then continues with a visit to the Grotto of St. John taking the form of a 17th century Monastery built around the cave where St. John lived for two years (95-97AD) during his writings of the Apocalypse. Inside one can see the stone which he is said to have used as a pillow. After this memorable tour, you will embark the coach for the short ride back to the port.

Picturesque Lindos, lying on the east coast of Rhodes, is renowned as an important archaeological site and popular visitor resort. Your one-hour journey follows the east coast past quaint villages, orange and lemon groves, vineyards and gnarled old olive trees. During your two-hour stay in Lindos you may either walk up to the summit of the Acropolis or, alternatively take a donkey ride for most of the distance. At the top of your ascent, numerous archaeological sites await, including the 4th-entury B.C. Doric Temple of Athena Lindia and a double-winged portico. Other attractions include a Byzantine church, the fortifications of the Knights, and the remains of the Governor’s quarters. There are breathtaking panoramas from atop the Acropolis, including St. Paul's Bay, where the Apostle is said to have landed in the year 51 A.D. to preach Christianity to the Rhodians. Gathered below the Acropolis, are the old, whitewashed houses and narrow streets of this picture-perfect town, whose beauty has inspired artists and writers for generations. Before leaving Lindos, you may wish to browse among the many tempting shops offering such items as ceramics and crocheted linen. Your return is along the same picturesque route as your outward journey.

Take a leisurely stroll through the medieval city of Rhodes, an historically-acclaimed UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your approximately three-hour guided walk begins at the Gate of Panagia Bourgou and proceeds directly to the Jewish Quarter. After passing the Synagogue, you progress further into the city center before continuing along the picturesque cobbled streets of the busy Turkish District. Your attention is drawn to the Mosque of Suleiman, with its elegant Italian Renaissance doorway. You then head toward the 14th-century Palace of the Grand Masters. This imposing structure stands in the northwest corner of the ramparts and is more reminiscent of a fortress than a palace. Its chequered history includes being converted into a prison by the Turks, suffering damage in an explosion and finally being restored by the Italians. The main building surrounds a central court, paved with colorful marbles and superb Hellenistic and Roman mosaics from neighboring islands. After leaving the Palace, you continue down the Street of the Knights, past medieval buildings, towers and emblazoned façades. The Knights of the Order of St. John once lived in these 15th and 16th century Gothic buildings. Your walk concludes in Hospital Square, from where there is a short stroll back to the port. Alternatively you may wish to spend additional independent time among the numerous cafés, restaurants and shops of the medieval town before returning at your leisure.

Indulge your senses with the history, beauty and flavors of Rhodes during this orientation drive and cooking demonstration. From the pier, you follow the Mandraki Esplanade, before passing the government buildings, Church of Annunciation and a replica of the Old Church of the Knights of St. John. At the entrance to Mandraki Port you see the deer statues, where it is believed the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, once stood. Your drive then ascends Monte Smith for panoramic views of Rhodes and the Aegean Sea. The Acropolis of Rhodes and the ancient 2nd-century B.C. stadium both lie atop this vantage point. You then proceed to the Old City of Rhodes where you leave the coach at the Gate d'Amboise for a 1¼-hour guided walking tour. After passing the Grand Master's Palace you stroll down the Street of the Knights, where many inns were once occupied by the crusaders. At the end of the street, you pass the 15th-century Archaeological Museum, the former Knights' Hospital, which is regarded as the Old City’s most magnificent and well preserved building. Your walk concludes at a Greek taverna, where a chef demonstrates cooking the dish of the day. Discover how several classic Greek dishes are prepared, including tzatziki and fried meatballs before learning cooking tips from the expert. At the conclusion of the demonstration, you are invited to sample the foods you have helped prepare before re-boarding your coach for the return drive to the pier.

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the most interesting sights in the comfort and privacy of your own car. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore. See the iconic sights of the city, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own. Capacity: 2 guests. Your private party may be of any size up to the maximum capacity. Private cars are ordered per vehicle (not per person)

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the most interesting sights in the comfort and privacy of your own van. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore. See the iconic sights of the city, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own. Capacity: 6 guests your private party may be of any size up to the maximum capacity. Private vans are ordered per vehicle (not per person)

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the most interesting sights in the comfort and privacy of your own car. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore. See the iconic sights of the city, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own. Capacity: 2 guests your private party may be of any size up to the maximum capacity. Private cars are ordered per vehicle (not per person)

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the most interesting sights in the comfort and privacy of your own van. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore. See the iconic sights of the city, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own. Capacity: 6 guests Your private party may be of any size up to the maximum capacity. Private vans are ordered per vehicle (not per person)