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Gentle waves wash a rock-strewn beach where Greek Long ago, these islands were the landing places of an endless tide of invaders from far-off lands. From ancient Phoenicia, Persia, the Peloponnesus, Imperial Rome and Constantinople they came, followed by waves of European Crusader knights, Genoan mariners, Venetian merchants and turbanned Turkish troops of the Ottoman Empire. They stormed ashore to conquer – only to be vanquished by time and absorbed into the dry volcanic earth. All that remains are their stone ruins, ghostly shapes wrapped in myth and mystery. Today the Cyclades are an inviting playground for pleasure seekers aboard Star Clipper. Where white-washed churches point tilted Greek crosses heavenward in skies of brilliant blue, while sun worshippers bask on the beaches under Helios’ golden gaze. Twisting cobblestone alleyways lead to tavernas where octopus salad and ouzo are in order. Ancient Minoan palaces and medieval fortresses whisper tales of pagan rites and knightly rituals. In hidden coves, Star Clipper finds harbors where pristine sands and warm crystalline waters beckon you to explore underwater grottos while beachgoers laze away under sun-blessed skies, yet another dream-like day in the mythic, magical Cyclades. After exploring the historic Cyclades, two Star Clipper sailings continue up the Adriatic Sea to Venice. Before reaching Venice, you’ll explore three alluring stops along the coast of Croatia and a call in Kotor, Montenegro.
The best-kept secret in the Mediterranean. Ports only favored by local Ancient ruins gloriously rise from the ground, leaving only a glimpse of life from a remarkable era long past. Minarets dominate the skyline in a city that was once the heart of the Roman Empire. The spirit of epic battles linger and tales are told of a maiden whose beauty was so extraordinary that it launched a thousand ships … The “Delightful Dervishes” voyage between Athens and Istanbul, two of the most historical and stunningly picturesque cities in the world, explores popular favorites throughout Greece and Turkey. In Dikili the wonders of ancient Pergamum await, and a journey to the fabled city of Troy — home of the infamous Trojan War — can be made from the port of Canakkale. Our “Yachtsman’s Paradise” itinerary sails southbound between Istanbul and Athens and calls at a sprinkling of dazzling ports that are less visited favorites of yacht captains exploring the Aegean Sea. The glorious monasteries on Mount Athos greet our ship as we glide past, making our way to island jewels in the Sporades and Saronic islands. These were once the homes of the mythological gods and goddesses. Today, they are our playground, welcoming our majestic tall ship and all who sail aboard. |
