Join in an adventure to discover a different face of Mykonos. You will visit Little Venice on a walking tour and see Mykonos Castle, where you can take pictures of the famous windmills of Mykonos. You will pass by the most photographed church of Paraportiani and then visit a traditional pastry shop where you can taste amigdalota, a local sweet delicacy made of almonds.  Then you will board your bus for a short drive to Agios Giannis Beach, a traditional small port. Wander around this beautiful bay and take pictures of Delos island, lying just opposite. Re-board the bus for a drive to the center of the island, and a traditional Mykonian farm. Here you will do some wine tasting. Visit the traditional village of Ano Mera. Continue with a walk to the main square with its marble patio and mingle with the locals to get acquainted with the history of the village. You will then continue to the local traditional Taverna of Apostolis, to enjoy a glass of ouzo and homemade meze, prepared especially for you by the owner’s wife, accompanied by a live Greek music show.  On the way back to Mykonos you will receive a small gift, to take with you - the unique fragrance of Mykonos. Upon arrival you have some free time to walk around the narrow streets of Mykonos with its charming, whitewashed houses.                     
 
Please note:  There is no wheelchair access to Agios Giannis Beach or the monastery.  During the summer there is not much shade so it is advisable to wear a hat or visor, sunglasses, and bring sunscreen. Wear comfortable walking shoes.

            

 

 

 

This private cruise to Delos & Rhenia islands guarantees vast doses of relaxation, culture and unique moments. Departing from Mykonos on a short and enjoyable boat trip, you will reach the small port of Delos Island, from which you can see the ancient monuments of the island. This holy island for Ancient Greeks, according to mythology, was revealed through the waves of the Aegean Sea by Poseidon, when Leto – persecuted by Hera – arrived there to give birth to Apollo and Artemis. You will leave Delos and head for the nearby Rhenia island, transformed into a vast necropolis when the Athenians imposed clearance on the island of Delos, ordering no one to give birth or die on the holy island. But it is all in the past and today Rhenia is a true heaven on earth. This magnificent island possesses virgin beaches with crystal blue turquoise waters that magnetize anyone who is fortunate to see them. The most famous one that you will be heading to is Skinos, known as “Blue Lacuna.” Here you will have the time to swim in the crystal clear waters, sunbathe on the beautiful golden sandy beach, stroll around the coast and enjoy your stay on the boat with the drink and snack that will be served. After Skinos, you will also explore some nearby beaches of Rhenia such as Lygia, Glyfada, Strada, Lia and Ambelia, which stand out for their unique beauty.

 

Please note: Wear your swimsuit and bring sunscreen. Beach towels, snorkel equipment, cool beverages, fruit and snacks will all be included on the boat.

Please note:  This shore excursion is priced by boat for a maximum of 6 people. This shore excursion is non-refundable. If you booked Trip Protection through Windstar Cruises this shore excursion is covered under the trip protection plan.  As a result, your trip protection premium will increase.

            
 

 

 

 

 

Please note: As there is extensive walking on this tour, comfortable shoes are recommended.  
            

 

 

 

 

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 sites 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 sites of the city, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own. 

 

Please note:  Capacity: 1-2 guests. Private cars are ordered per vehicle (not per person). This tour includes transport in a private car, driver and English Speaking Guide. Itinerary can be adjusted with tour guide as long as it’s in the area and does not exceed the duration of 4 hours. Recommended for physically challenged guests.

           

 

 

 

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 sites 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 sites of the city, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own. 

 

Please note:  Capacity: 3-6 guests. Private vans are ordered per vehicle (not per person). This tour includes transport in a private van, driver and English Speaking Guide. Itinerary can be adjusted with tour guide as long as it’s in the area and does not exceed the duration of 4 hours. Recommended for physically challenged guests.

           

 

 

 

Experience a taste of traditional village life in Greece during this scenic half-day tour of Arolithos.  After a short drive, you will arrive at the traditional village of Arolithos, built recently following the typical architecture of old Cretan Villages. As you enter the village, walking along its cobblestone streets, you will visit the rural life and popular art museum. You will pass old houses and shops where artisans produce crafts such as mosaics, weavings, wood carving and are even baking bread. A short walk will bring you to a small square and an authentic Greek coffee shop, where you will receive a welcome drink  known as “raki," together with snacks. Continuing on the main square of the village you will see its beautiful old church which is frequently used for marriages and Orthodox ceremonies.

 

Please note:  As this tour is on foot, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

          

 

 

 

 

 

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 sites 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 sites of the city, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own. 

 

Please note:  Capacity: 3-6 guests. Private vans are ordered per vehicle (not per person). This tour includes transport in a private van, driver and English Speaking Guide. Itinerary can be adjusted with tour guide as long as it’s in the area and does not exceed the duration of 8 hours. Recommended for physically challenged guests.

             

 

 

 

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 sites 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 sites of the city, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own. 

 

Please note:  Capacity: 1-2 guests. Private cars are ordered per vehicle (not per person). This tour includes transport in a private car, driver and English Speaking Guide. Itinerary can be adjusted with tour guide as long as it’s in the area and does not exceed the duration of 8 hours. Recommended for physically challenged guests.

              

 

 

 

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 sites 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 sites of the city, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own. 

 

Please note:  Capacity: 1-2 guests. Private cars are ordered per vehicle (not per person). This tour includes transport in a private car, driver and English Speaking Guide. Itinerary can be adjusted with tour guide as long as it’s in the area and does not exceed the duration of 8 hours. Recommended for physically challenged guests.

            

 

 

 

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 sites 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 sites of the city, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own. 

 

Please note:  Capacity: 3-6 guests. Private vans are ordered per vehicle (not per person). This tour includes transport in a private van, driver and English Speaking Guide. Itinerary can be adjusted with tour guide as long as it’s in the area and does not exceed the duration of 8 hours. Recommended for physically challenged guests.

             

 

 

 

Departing from the quayside in Rhodes, you will proceed to Mount Smith, the Acropolis of ancient Rhodes. From the tumbled massive pillars of the Temple of Athena, the view encompasses the Temple of Apollo, the stadium of Diagoras, and the port. Then you will proceed to Bonis Ceramic Workshop where you will be given a special apron and an overview on the art of ceramics. You will see the instructor demonstrate how to use the pottery wheel. Working in groups of 3, you will then have the opportunity to make your own pottery vase under the guidance of the instructor, using the pottery wheel. You will then be able to carve a design of your choice on a raw plate provided by the workshop. The vase and the plate will then be baked and colored by the ceramic technicians, and when finished will be sent to your home. There will be ample time, after the pottery lesson, for you to browse through the Ceramic Workshop’s exhibition to admire the beautiful Rhodian Ceramics on display. Then, you will head to Limanaki to a beautiful Greek taverna on the beach where you will be served traditional ouzo and local appetizers.    

 

Please note: The maximum number of participants for this tour is 16.

          

 

 

 

Take a leisurely stroll through the medieval city of Rhodes, a historically acclaimed UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Your approximately 3-hour guided walk will begin at the Gate of Panagia Bourgou and proceed 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 and continue down the Street of the Knights, past medieval buildings, towers and emblazoned façades. Your walk will conclude in Hospital Square, from where it is only 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.

 

Please note: The order of sites visited may vary. This program is entirely on foot and there is no sightseeing by coach. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. 

            

 

 

 

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 century B.C. Doric Temple of Athena Lindia and a double-winged portico. Other attractions include a Byzantine church, 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 A.D. 51 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.

 

Please note: Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. 

 

            

 

The monastery lies near Panagia village, west of Pafos forest. Set in beautiful surroundings, the monastery, was founded in 1152 A.D. by a monk called Ignatios who built the monastery dedicated to “Our Lady of the Golden Pomegranate.” The monastery, whose present building dates back to 1770, has a collection of important icons and treasures. The church lies in the middle of the monastery and has beautiful frescoes above its three entrances. The icon of Christ and the Virgin Mary in the monastery is also believed to be painted by Apostle Luke the Evangelist. It is gold and sliver plated. A Byzantine museum has recently been set up. In front of the main entrance of the monastery there is a café restaurant from where the view is panoramic and majestic. The old winery of the monastery produces some of the best vintage wine of Cyprus produced from the monastery's vineyards. The scenic drive to the monastery is 75 minutes and you will spend 30 minutes there.  Then it’s a 15 minute drive to Fiti,well-known for its colorful textiles. Stone houses and tiled roofs and a rich natural environment with age-long oak trees are only some of the beautiful images of Fiti. Stroll around the prim neighborhoods of Fiti to see the paved square with blooming flower pots, the stone fountain and the old olive-mill. Also, visit the Museum of Textile and Folk Art to admire the famous ‘foitiotika’ (made in Fiti) textiles, as well as the church of Agios Demetrios, a 19th century building. Driving towards Statos Agios Fotios village, you will visit the workshop of original handmade Byzantine icons. Mrs. Myrianthi, a second generation local certified artist will introduce you to the traditional Byzantine style and technique. At the end of the demonstration you will enjoy homemade traditional sweets, fresh lemonade & filter coffee before driving back to port.

 

Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes.

         

 

 

 

Drive for 20 minutes through Phassouri citrus groves and vineyards, to the ancient city of Kourion, a beautiful and unspoiled spot perched high on a cliff. Take in the dazzling views of the ruins and the sea below. Kourion, one of the ancient kingdoms of Cyprus, is situated in a conspicuous topographic position. It is built on a rise with three steep, almost vertical, sides. In his writings, Herodotus referred to the widely accepted notion that Greeks from Argos founded Kourion. During the 4th century AD, Kourion was destroyed by earthquakes. To the south of the complex, a theatrical natural hollow hosted a Greco-Roman theatre with a capacity of about 3,500 spectators. Archaeological and architectural data testify that the original theatre of Kourion was Hellenistic, small in size, dating back to the second century BC. Adjacent to the theatre are the remains of the House of Eustolios, consisting of as many as thirty rooms with a bathing complex, dating from the 4th to the middle of the 7th century AD. The floors of the porticoes are paved with beautiful mosaic compositions depicting fish, birds and a partridge, with Greek inscriptions. After exploring the site, you'll stop at Kolossi Castle, built in the 13th century. Your guide will tell you how it served both as the Grand Command post of the Knights of Order of St. John (Jerusalem) and also of the Knights Templar. Buses will depart from the castle and head to the old shopping district of Limassol where you'll have a chance to shop for local as well as international merchandise, including jewelry, leather goods, souvenirs, clothing and local artifacts.

 

Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes.

             

 

 

 

The last divided capital city in the world, after the fall of Berlin Wall, is the city of Nikosia. The Green Line has divided north from south since 1974. Nikosia is the largest town of Cyprus and has been the capital of the island since medieval times (11th century AD). The history of the city is interesting and adventurous and the place itself is of great character, circled by old city walls and criss-crossed by twisting, teeming streets. Your first stop on the way to Nikosia is at the Neolithic archaeological site of Khirokitia (7000 BC). This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the best preserved of its kind in the Eastern Mediterranean. Five dwellings in close proximity have been reconstructed following the Neolithic model, using the traditional methods and materials. They have been furnished with copies of objects actually found inside the houses during excavations, offering a terrific impression of the layout and lifestyle of the village as it was in antiquity. Driving thought the typical Cypriot scenery you arrive in Nikosia and start with the visit to St. John's Cathedral built in 1662 by Archbishop Nikiforos. Admire the 18th century frescoes embellishing the walls, depicting colorful biblical scenes. Afterwards, you'll stop at the Green Line checkpoint at Ledra Street from where you will have the opportunity to view the Turkish half of Nikosia and northern territory of Cyprus. You'll pass through the impressive Venetian Walls that encircle the old city via the Pafos Gate. Arrive in the old town of Nikosia where there is free time for shopping or browsing in the restored 19th century neighborhood of Laiki Yitonia, with traditional houses, craft shops, taverns and galleries all lining the narrow pedestrian streets within the walled city.

 

Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes.

 

           

 

Travel through Phassouri's citrus groves and vineyards to reach Petra tou Romiou -- the symbol of Pafos city. Archaeological evidence and ancient inscriptions bear witness to the existence of numerous sanctuaries and temples dedicated to the goddess Aphrodite throughout Cyprus. Your route will continue to Pafos -- one of the most beautiful places on the island. Today Pafos is a small harbor town and a popular holiday resort, but in Hellenistic and Roman times it was the capital of Cyprus. The whole town of Pafos is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it is home to picturesque churches, medieval monasteries, museums, countless antiquities and a pretty harbor guarded by a small castle. The true claim to fame here is the colorful Dionysos Mosaics -- renowned throughout the Mediterranean. Enter the House of Dionyssos to see the breathtaking mosaics unearthed during the excavation of a Roman nobleman's villa from the 3rd century AD. An extensive complex of buildings fitted with beautiful mosaic floors shows Roman legends and characters, but mostly represent scenes from Greek mythology. These are considered to be the finest mosaics in the Mediterranean, and perhaps in the world. Next, the drive will take you to visit the underground Tombs of the Kings at the Necropolis of Pafos, dating back to the 3rd century BC. You will find here open, peristyle courts surrounded by burial chambers. You'll have some time for shopping in the Limanaki area (the old harbor) where local and international merchandise is sold. Those who have a sweet tooth may want to taste the famous Cyprus delight, Loukoumi (at your own expense), before returning to Limassol port.

 

Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes.

          

 

 

 

From the lofty heights of Masada to the lowest point on earth at the Dead Sea, this tour will take you to the heart of Israel. Leave Ashdod port and drive to the Masada Fortress via Qumran, where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found. High above the Dead Sea’s desolate landscape is Masada. In King Herod’s day, it was a luxury refuge complete with magnificent palaces and excavated rock cisterns to supply water. Around A.D. 73, after a 3-year-long Roman siege, more than 950 Jews took their own lives at Masada rather than face a future of slavery. A cable car will convey you to the summit for a walk around the site of this last stand. Among the fascinating sights are the wall, northern palace, synagogue, western palace, Roman ramp and siege camps. After your cable car descent, you will have time to shop before driving to lunch at a hotel on the shores of the Dead Sea. Later you may choose to take a swim in these mineral-rich waters that are so salty you can’t sink! After a day steeped in history, you will return to Ashdod.

 

Please note: Travel time to Masada is approximately 2½ hours each way. Bring sunscreen and a hat. If you plan to take a dip in the Dead Sea, bring an old swimsuit as the water can cause discoloration. Aqua shoes are also recommended. Towels and lockers are provided at the hotel. In the event of flash floods in the Judean Desert the tour will not pass by Qumran.

             

 

 

 

There is so much history in this land that familiar names will catch your attention all the way from Ashdod to Jerusalem. Begin your visit to Jerusalem with a magnificent view over the "Golden City" from the top of the Mount Scopus and then follow in the footsteps of Jesus as you walk through Gethsemane. It was in this Garden of olive trees that Jesus spent the last moments before his arrest. Visit the Garden and the Church of All Nations. Board your coach for the short drive to Bethlehem and visit the Church of Nativity built 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. You will also have the opportunity to shop for a few minutes and to enjoy a well deserved lunch. After lunch drive to Jaffa Gate. Walk through the Old City 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 by Persians, and then rebuilt by the Crusaders. Continue your walk through the Christian Quarter and the bazaar. Proceed through the Roman Cardo to the Jewish Quarter and the Western (or Wailing) Wall. This is the last vestige of the ramparts that surrounded the Holy Temple of the Jews, built by Solomon and destroyed by Nebuchadnezzar, rebuilt by Babylonian exiles, expanded by Herod and then burned down by Titus. Leave the Old City via Dung Gate and drive to Ashdod port.

 

Please note: The tour includes visiting the churches but does not include entering the Grotto in the Church of the Nativity or the Holy Grave. Modest attire is required; knees, shoulders and midriffs must be covered. Wear comfortable walking shoes.

             

 

 

 

The Yad Vashem Museum and Mt. Zion are just two of the many highlights of this comprehensive full day program. From the pier, your motor coach will take you via the Judean Mountains to Jerusalem. Your first stop will be at Yad Vashem Holocaust Museum—a sanctuary and temple of memories dedicated to the millions of Jews who died during World War II. A most impressive and complete documentary collection is housed within its informative museum, illustrating the persecution from 1933 to 1945. You will also visit the Children’s Memorial. Your next stop is at the Israel Museum. Here, you will visit the Second Temple Model of Jerusalem, reconstructing the topography and architecture of the city at the time of its destruction in A.D. 70. Then, visit the Shrine of the Book and see the Dead Sea Scrolls, possibly the most important archaeological find of the 20th century in the Holy Land. Re-board your coach and drive by the Knesset, Israel’s Parliament, on your way to lunch. In the afternoon you will drive up Mt Scopus for a splendid panoramic view of the Old City and the Temple Mount. Continue to Mt Zion., where you will commence your walking tour. Starting at Zion Gate, stroll to the Jewish Quarter, renovated after the 1967 war. Visit the 2nd century Roman Cardo and walk down the hill to the Western (Wailing) Wall. Here you can touch the Herodian Stones that were once part of the Second Temple. After this enriching day, you will return to Ashdod and the ship.

 

Please note: Modest attire is required; knees, shoulders and midriffs must be covered. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Minimum age is 10 years. Tour does not operate on Saturdays or Holidays. Use of audio headset included will enhance your tour experience.

            

 

 

 

Discover the main features of Jerusalem by air-conditioned motorcoach without the need for extensive walking. Leave the port and drive via the Judean Mountains to the Mount of Olives to take in a panoramic view of the old city. Follow in the footsteps of Jesus as you walk through Gethsemane -- the garden of olive trees in which Jesus spent the last moments before his arrest. Drive around the old city walls, and enter Jerusalem on foot by way of the Dung Gate. Here you will visit the Western (Wailing) Wall -- the last vestige of the ramparts that surrounded the holy temple of the Jews built by King Solomon. After lunch, stop at the Sherover Promenade, offering a panoramic view of the Old City and of Bethlehem in the distance. As you leave Jerusalem to return to the ship, you'll take a narrated driving tour of the city past many famous landmarks, including the Knesset (Israel's Parliament), the Shrine of the Book and the Supreme Court.

 

Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes. Although this tour is substantially less strenuous than other Jerusalem excursions, some walking is required. This tour will not visit the Old City; you will only step inside the Dung Gate to view the Wailing Wall. Modest attire is required; knees, shoulders and midriffs must be covered.     

            

 

 

 

After a brief transfer to the helicopter pad, begin your flightseeing adventure by flying to Masada. You will hover above this archaeological wonder for about 10 minutes, enjoying a unique perspective of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. After a short fueling stop, you will then fly over the Syrian-African rift and the Dead Sea. The sulphur hot springs of Ein Gedi and the famed Qumran Caves lay below, where in 1947 Bedouin shepherds found the Dead Sea Scrolls, one of the most significant biblical archaeological discoveries of the century. Next, fly westward toward Jerusalem, enjoy magnificent views only possible by helicopter including Mt. Scopus and Mt. Olives, the world-famous Temple Mount and the walled Old City. Upon arrival, land in Jerusalem, where your transportation and guide await to escort you on a 2-hour guided tour of the Old City.  Entering the Old City at the Jaffa Gate, your path winds through some of the most sacred sites in religious history. The colorful bazaar leads to the Christian Quarter along part of the famous Via Dolorosa, believed to be the route of Jesus as he carried his cross to Calvary. You will visit the Church of the Holy Sepulcher at Golgotha, representing the six oldest Christian sects. View the golden-topped Dome of the Rock and experience the Western Wall (formerly the Wailing Wall), the holiest site in the Jewish world. Exiting the Old City through the Dung Gate, you will proceed to the exquisite American Colony Hotel for a relaxing lunch and beverages. After lunch, your driver will take you to your helicopter for the 30-minute flight back to Ashdod, where you will transfer to your ship.

 

Please note: Modest attire is required; knees, shoulders and midriffs must be covered. Wear comfortable walking shoes.

Please note: This shore excursion is non-refundable. If you booked Trip Protection through Windstar Cruises this shore excursion is covered under the trip protection plan.  As a result, your trip protection premium will increase.