7-night Cruising the Greek Islands of the Southern Aegean – with Smithsonian Journeys Cruise
travel and relax in luxurious amenities and the finest service
Athens (Piraeus) to Athens (Piraeus)
PONANT
/ L'Austral
October 3, 2024
1477306
$ 7,070
- $200 per Couple Shipboard Credit
Overview
Cruise Itinerary
Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Give us a call or email us. Let us personalize your experience!
Piraeus is the seaport for Athens, the capital of western civilization, which boasts a fantastic mix of classical ruins and vivacious modern life. Climb the hill of Acropolis to wonder at the Parthenon, join the lively Athenians in Constitution Square, and find a welcoming taverna for spirited bizouki music, plenty of ouzo to drink, and energetic Greek dancing. Piraeus is the largest harbor in the country. The white chapel of St. George at its summit has a theater bearing the same name. The hill of Nymphs is the site of a planetarium, which is located above magnificent Thesseio temple. Among all of these hills, Acropolis is the one that glorified Athens and the whole Greek world and became the symbol of the western civilization. Bays and small rocky or sandy coves dot the area and during the summer are filled with Athenians and foreigners enjoying their beauty.
This island is known as the site of the apocalyptic Revelations of St. John the Divine, written here during his exile from the Roman Empire. The cave where he lived is near the site of the Monastery of the Apocalypse. The Monastery of St. John, built on one of the island's highest points, houses priceless icons and manuscripts in its Treasury.
Rhodes is one of Greece’s favored vacation centers and was an important cultural center with a well-known School of Rhetoric attended by such greats as Cicero and Caesar. Rhodes' most famous attractions originated with the Knights of St. John, who occupied parts of the island from 1310 to 1522 and left a medieval town, dominated by the Palace of the Grand Masters and Knights' Hospital, which houses an Archaeological Museum with interesting exhibits of national archaeological finds. Rhodes has inspired many artists. The Old Town offers shopping opportunities and lively nightlife. At Mount Filerimos a church has been built on the site of an ancient temple. A popular excursion is to the charming village of Lindos. Its premier attraction, the ancient acropolis, stands atop sheer cliffs. Walls of a 13th-century Crusader castle enclose the site. Today, the winding path up to the acropolis is lined by stalls, where locals sell lace tablecloths and souvenirs. Mandraki Harbor's entrance is flanked by stone columns topped by figures of a stag and a hind, the town's heraldic animals.
Santorini is everything that has made the Greek islands legendary. The world famous island of Santorini is the southern most island of the Cycladic group in the Aegean Sea, and is located north of Crete. Its population is distributed among thirteen villages and just exceeds nine thousand. The marvelous dry climate and unbroken sunshine create year around conditions which are perfect for observation, photographs and videos under an extraordinary variety of natural lights and colors.
With its splendidly rugged coastline and low-key ambiance, Amorgos provides a marvelous spot of natural beauty. It is a seductive island leading to the path of romanticism, sensuality and happiness. Hora is the island's interior capital and is filled with paved streets, arches, alleys and rocky steps. Attractions in Hora include the venetian castle, the medieval Tower of Gavras, which today houses the archaeological museum, the monastery of Hozoviotissas, and the old mansions. Amorgos has two beautiful and safe ports, Aegiali and Katapola. Aegiali has heavy tourist action, showing at the same time all the characteristics of a traditional Greek fishing harbor. Aegiali is famous for the unique landscapes of rare beauty and the golden beaches its visitors are offered, as well as the several ancient monuments and the wonderful little churches. It is quite a charismatic place with which every visitor feels a deep connection.
The uninhabited island of Delos is one of the finest archaeological sites in Greece. Considered a sacred island since the 7th century B.C., the famous Terrace of the Lions stands guard over the "sacred lake" and the remains of the Temple of Apollo.
Mykonos's many captivating attributes make it one of the most celebrated Greek holiday islands. Its main village is a colorful maze of narrow streets lined with white-washed houses, many with bright blue doors and shutters. As an attractive backdrop, famous windmills are lined up like toy soldiers on the hillside, vestiges of a time when wind power was used to grind grain. Mykonos has churches and chapels scattered about the island; quite a number of them are located right in town. Radiant flowers spill over white-washed walls and shady courtyards. In addition to swimming, sunning, water-skiing and surfing, visitors find endless shopping opportunities. Artists have relied on Mykonos' beautiful setting to inspire them. The most photographed site is the Paraportiani, a cluster of white-washed churches resting below windmills. Mykonos's museums include an Archaeological Museum, which houses relics from the Trojan War, a Folk Art Museum and a Maritime Museum. The best beaches are Aghios Stephanos, Psarou, Kalafatis, Onros, Panormos and Elia.
A former capital of Greece and a popular port on the eastern Peloponnese coast, Nafplion impresses visitors with grand, medieval architecture erected by Venetians during the 15th century. The most dominant structure is Palamidi Fortress towering high above town. The port is a lively town with a scenic harbor, a picturesque center to explore on foot and pebble beaches. Several monuments remain from its Turkish past, including mosques and parliament building. Handicrafts and local costumes are on display at the Folk Art Museum. Palamidi Castle has an incomparable view from the fortress’ lofty position. Spend time strolling along the waterfront, exploring around main square and narrow streets of Old Town. Platia Sintagmator, the city’s main square, is fronted by a former mosque, now the meeting place of Greek Parliament. Here is also the Archaeological Museum, which features an outstanding collection of Mycenaean finds. The entrance to Akronafplia Citadel has a gate built of Roman bricks, a Byzantine gatehouse with frescoes dating from 1291, and Venetian bastions. From the port, don't pass up a tour to Mycenae. There is evidence that the site has been inhabited since 4000 BC, but reached its peak of civilization during 1500 - 1000 BC. It was here that the mighty Agamemnon ruled and the site still contains massive structures which give visitors a glimpse of what this magnificent city once was.
Piraeus is the seaport for Athens, the capital of western civilization, which boasts a fantastic mix of classical ruins and vivacious modern life. Climb the hill of Acropolis to wonder at the Parthenon, join the lively Athenians in Constitution Square, and find a welcoming taverna for spirited bizouki music, plenty of ouzo to drink, and energetic Greek dancing. Piraeus is the largest harbor in the country. The white chapel of St. George at its summit has a theater bearing the same name. The hill of Nymphs is the site of a planetarium, which is located above magnificent Thesseio temple. Among all of these hills, Acropolis is the one that glorified Athens and the whole Greek world and became the symbol of the western civilization. Bays and small rocky or sandy coves dot the area and during the summer are filled with Athenians and foreigners enjoying their beauty.
Stateroom
& Price
All fares are quoted in US Dollars.
Mahe Owner's Suite SA
Size: 484 sq.ft. + 97 sq.ft. balcony. Owner's Suites are decorated by French interior designers and will provide you a breathtaking panoramic sea view. Amenities:• Individually-controlled air-conditioning
• Cabin layout : king-size bed, or twin beds, communicating cabins available
• Bathtub or shower
• Minibar
• Flat screen satellite TV
• Desk with stationery
• DVD, CD and Ipod™ players
• Video on demand
• Safe
• Hairdryer
• Bath robes
• Satellite direct line telephone
• 110/220 volts outlet
• French bath products
• 24hr room service
• Internet access wifi
• Another Flat screen satellite TV
• Large bathtub
• Sofa
• Table with 4 chairs
• Armchair & Pedestal table
PRICE $ 19,620
Prestige Suite PS6
Size: 398 sq.ft. + 85 sq.ft. balcony. 20 Prestige Suites with private balcony will provide you a sea with in total discretion. Amenities:• Individually-controlled air-conditioning
• Cabin layout : king-size bed, or twin beds, communicating cabins available
• Shower
• Minibar
• Flat screen satellite TV
• Desk with stationery
• DVD, CD and Ipod™ players
• Video on demand
• Safe
• Hairdryer
• Bath robes
• Satellite direct line telephone
• 110/220 volts outlet
• French bath products
• 24hr room service
• Internet access wifi
• Another Flat screen satellite TV
• Sofa
• Armchair & Pedestal table
PRICE $ 17,210
Mahe Deluxe Suite DS6
Size: 290 sq.ft. + 54 sq.ft. balcony. There are 3 Deluxe Suites with private balcony. Amenities:• Individually-controlled air-conditioning
• Cabin layout : king-size bed, or twin beds
• Shower
• Minibar
• Flat screen satellite TV
• Desk with stationery
• DVD, CD and Ipod™ players
• Video on demand
• Safe
• Hairdryer
• Bath robes
• Satellite direct line telephone
• 110/220 volts outlet
• French bath products
• 24hr room service
• Internet access wifi
• Sofa
• Armchair & Pedestal table
PRICE $ 12,360
Mahe Prestige Suite PS5
Size: 398 sq.ft. + 85 sq.ft. balcony. 20 Prestige Suites with private balcony will provide you a sea with in total discretion. Amenities:• Individually-controlled air-conditioning
• Cabin layout : king-size bed, or twin beds, communicating cabins available
• Shower
• Minibar
• Flat screen satellite TV
• Desk with stationery
• DVD, CD and Ipod™ players
• Video on demand
• Safe
• Hairdryer
• Bath robes
• Satellite direct line telephone
• 110/220 volts outlet
• French bath products
• 24hr room service
• Internet acces wifi
• Another Flat screen satellite TV
• Sofa
• Armchair & Pedestal table
PRICE $ 16,390
Prestige Balcony Stateroom PR6
Size: 200 sq.ft. + 43 sq.ft. balcony. Prestige Staterooms with private balcony. Amenities:• Individually-controlled air-conditioning
• Cabin layout : king-size bed, or twin beds
• Shower
• Minibar
• Flat screen satellite TV
• Desk with stationery
• DVD, CD and Ipod™ players
• Video on demand
• Safe
• Hairdryer
• Bath robes
• Satellite direct line telephone
• 110/220 volts outlet
• French bath products
• 24hr room service
PRICE $ 9,120
Mahe Prestige Balcony Stateroom PR4
Size: 200 sq.ft. + 43 sq.ft. balcony. Prestige Staterooms with private balcony. Amenities:• Individually-controlled air-conditioning
• Cabin layout : king-size bed, or twin beds
• Shower
• Minibar
• Flat screen satellite TV
• Desk with stationery
• DVD, CD and Ipod™ players
• Video on demand
• Safe
• Hairdryer
• Bath robes
• Satellite direct line telephone
• 110/220 volts outlet
• French bath products
• 24hr room service
• Internet access wifi
PRICE $ 8,310
Calicut Superior Stateroom SP3
Size: 226 sq.ft. superior staterooms located on Deck3. Amenities:• Individually-controlled air-conditioning
• Cabin layout : king-size bed, or twin beds
• Shower
• Minibar
• Flat screen satellite TV
• Desk with stationery
• DVD, CD and Ipod™ players
• Video on demand
• Safe
• Hairdryer
• Bath robes
• Satellite direct line telephone
• 110/220 volts outlet
• French bath products
• 24hr room service
• Internet access wifi
PRICE $ 7,070
Cruise
Inclusions
Cruise, meals, and more... including:
- Complimentary Open Bar including alcoholic beverages, bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees, and fully stocked stateroom mini bar
- Complimentary Fine Cuisine Restaurants
- Complimentary 24-hour room service for all staterooms and suites
- Complimentary Unlimited Wi-Fi throughout the ship
- Complimentary Gratuities
- Complimentary 24-hour butler service in suites
- Complimentary use of Wellness facilities
- Complimentary Concierge Service for all staterooms and suites
- HERMES amenities
- Open Bridge Policy
About the Ship
Innovative design, sleek shape and profile, refined interior decoration, friendly, intimate atmosphere: French designers and decorators have managed to give this ship a unique style and veritable signature of its own. Combinations of fine materials, colors and tones harmoniously livened up with touches of bright color, elegant lines, discreet and subtle refinement… everything has been designed to create a unique atmosphere onboard, a veritable personality: the chic style and naturally relaxing ambiance of a veritable private yacht.
Deck Plan
Statistics
Year Built | 2011 |
Year Refurbished | |
Year entered present fleet | |
Previous name | - |
Country of registry | |
Tonnage (GRT) | 10944 |
Guests (Lowers) | 264 |
Total guests | 264 |
Passenger Decks | 6 |
Number of crew | 139 |
officer’s nationality | |
cruise/hotel staff nationality |
Stateroom Counts
Suites | 4 |
Balconies | 0 |
ocean/river view | 8 |
interior | 0 |
Accessible | 3 |
About
PONANT
Ponant has built newer luxury boutique ships that cater to intrepid travelers on expedition cruises to destinations like Antarctica, The Arctic, the northern reaches of Australia, and the Amazon, while maintaining a respect for the indigenous populations and pristine nature of the remote location.
Plan with an Expert
Contact one of our cruise specialists and let them personalize your cruise vacation the way you want it. We'll help tailor your experience with customized shore excursions and special requests onboard, complimentary private car and driver on select voyages, arrange pre- or post-cruise hotel stays, your best airfare options, and more.
TravelStore #Cruises
This is offer number
1477306
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or Call 1 800 850 3224