Japan To Greece Grand Voyage

Tokyo, Japan's bustling capital, offers an eclectic mix of tradition and modernity. Begin your adventure with a visit to the Asakusa district, home to the ancient Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo's oldest and most significant temple. Nearby, Nakamise Street is perfect for souvenir shopping and sampling traditional snacks.

For a panoramic view of the city, head to the Tokyo Skytree, one of the world's tallest towers. Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian intersections, is a must-see for its sheer scale and energy. To experience tranquility, visit the serene Meiji Shrine, nestled in a lush forest in Shibuya. Don't miss trying Tokyo's renowned sushi at Tsukiji Outer Market or exploring the vibrant Harajuku district for trendy fashion and unique cafes.

Spend the day sailing in style aboard your boutique hotel at sea. Indulge in a treatment at Sanctum Spa, stay ship shape with a class at our fitness center, or lounge the day away on our sunny pool deck. In the evening, savor inspired Italian cuisine at Aqualina, or relish in a classic steakhouse experience at Prime C. Plus, you’ll find plenty of exciting evening entertainment, from thrilling shows at Cabaret Lounge to intimate performances in the Living Room.

Hakodate is one of the most popular city destinations in Japan. Here you can experience diverse dynastic architecture, the last Shogun battlefield and enjoy shimmering night views from Mount Hakodate. Located along Hokkaido's southwestern tip, you can immerse yourself in history within the star-shaped walls of Fort Goryokaku and explore the site of famous battles that transformed Japan.

Enjoy a mouth-watering seafood rice bowl (kaisen-don) from the Hakodate Morning Market and then relax with a soak in the Yunokawa hot springs on Hakodate's outskirts.

Otaru, located on the northwest coast of Hokkaido, Japan, is a charming port city known for its well-preserved architecture and scenic canals. The Otaru Canal, lined with historic warehouses, is a popular attraction, especially beautiful when illuminated at night. A stroll along the canal offers a glimpse into the city's past as a bustling trade hub.

The city is also famous for its glassworks, music boxes, and sake distilleries. Visitors can explore the Otaru Music Box Museum and the Kitaichi Glassworks to experience the local craftsmanship. The vibrant Sakaimachi Street, with its array of shops and cafes, is perfect for enjoying local delicacies and shopping for unique souvenirs. With its blend of history, culture, and picturesque scenery, Otaru is a delightful destination in Japan.

Honshu's northernmost city is full of picturesque historic temples, museums, and close to incredible nature like Mt. Hakkoda. In the spring and summer, Aomori bursts to life with cherry blossom festivals and the fiery Nebuta Festival every August. Ships dock at the Shin-Chuo wharf.

Top Things to Do in Aomori:

• visit the Hirosaki Castle town
• take the aerial tramway up Mt. Hakkoda
• see the grand buddha at Seiryuu-ji Temple
• visit the Nebuta Warasse Museum
• cruise on Lake Towada

Niigata, Japan, is known for its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The Northern Culture Museum, a former wealthy landowner's estate, showcases traditional architecture and art. The beautiful gardens and tea houses provide a glimpse into Japan's historical opulence.

The Pier Bandai market offers the freshest seafood, with local vendors serving Niigata's renowned sushi and sashimi. Stroll along the Shinano River, Japan's longest river, to enjoy the serene views. The Bandai Bridge, a symbol of Niigata, provides a perfect photo opportunity and a peaceful walk.

Toyama, nestled between the Northern Japan Alps and the Sea of Japan, is renowned for its spectacular natural landscapes and culinary excellence. The city is a gateway to Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, famous for its Snow Wall or "Yuki no Otani" that offers a breathtaking experience especially in spring. Toyama’s coast is also known for its rich seafood, with the Toyama Bay offering some of the freshest sushi in Japan, particularly the revered firefly squid.

In the heart of the city, Toyama Castle Park provides a serene escape with its historic castle, beautifully manicured gardens, and museum detailing the region's feudal past. The park transforms during cherry blossom season, becoming a picturesque spot for enjoying the fleeting beauty of sakura.

Head to Kanazawa and the Ishikawa Prefecture and you step back in time to the Edo Period (1603 to 1886), the height of samurai culture.

Because most of the original architecture is still preserved, you can expect an eclectic mix of samurai streets, teahouses graced by geisha, thought-provoking modern museums and delectable foodie trends (gold-leaf ice cream anyone?). The crowning jewel of Kanazawa is the sensational Kenrokuen Garden, where locals and tourists visit to soak up the ever-changing seasonal beauty.

Sakaiminato, nestled on the western tip of Japan's Tottori Prefecture, serves as a gateway to the enchanting world of Japanese folklore and seafood delicacies. The city is renowned for its association with Mizuki Shigeru, the celebrated manga artist behind "GeGeGe no Kitaro," which is vividly brought to life along the Mizuki Shigeru Road, adorned with over 100 bronze statues of the series' characters.

For culinary adventurers, the Sakaiminato Fish Market offers a fresh glimpse into Japan's vibrant seafood culture, with opportunities to savor local specialties like crab and squid. Nearby, the Adachi Museum of Art, famous for its stunning Japanese gardens and impressive collection of contemporary Japanese paintings, offers a serene retreat for art lovers

Known for its beaches, mountains and temples, Busan is a large port city in South Korea. Enjoy the Haeundae Beach with its Sea Life Aquarium and Folk Square with traditional games such as tug-of-war or head to Gwangalli Beach for bars and views of modern Diamond Bridge.

Top Things to Do in Busan:

• Shop at Centum Shinsegae Department Store; the world’s largest!
• Enjoy the street art and food on a walking tour of the pastel-coloured Gamcheon Village.
• Explore Haedong Yonggungsa Temple and grounds, located at the top of a huge rock rising from the ocean
• Visit the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage area Gyeongju, south east of the city.

Nagasaki, situated on the northwest coast of Kyushu, Japan, holds a profound historical significance, famously known for being the site of the second atomic bomb drop during World War II. Today, the city is a symbol of peace and resilience, with the Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum providing moving insights into the events and aftermath of 1945.

Beyond its historical sites, Nagasaki enchants with its unique blend of Japanese and Western cultural influences, seen in its architecture and local cuisine. Glover Garden showcases exquisite colonial-period homes, offering views over the picturesque harbour. The city's steep slopes and narrow streets add a charming layer to its scenic tram rides, making Nagasaki a captivating destination full of history and beauty.

Kitakyushu, located on Japan's Kyushu Island, is a vibrant city known for its industrial heritage and scenic beauty. The city boasts the impressive Kokura Castle, a beautifully reconstructed feudal castle surrounded by lush gardens and a tranquil moat. Nearby, the Riverwalk Kitakyushu complex offers shopping, dining, and cultural experiences with views of the Murasaki River.

Kitakyushu is also home to the Mojiko Retro District, a charming area with preserved early 20th-century buildings, museums, and waterfront promenades. The city’s green spaces, such as the Kawachi Fujien Wisteria Garden, famous for its stunning wisteria tunnels, provide a peaceful retreat. With its mix of historical sites, modern amenities, and natural beauty, Kitakyushu offers a diverse range of attractions for visitors.

The unforgettable city that was the first ever target of an atomic bomb, Hiroshima has emerged from its tragedy as a vibrant and thriving community. Now known as the 'City of Peace', it is a bustling metropolis dotted with leafy parks, ancient shrines and traditional castles standing next to modern skyscrapers. Ships will dock at the Port of Hiroshima.

Top Things to Do in Hiroshima:

• walk through the Peach Memorial Park
• visit the UNESCO site, Itsukushima Shrine
• explore the Mazda Museum
• admire the Hiroshima Castle and Gardens

Takamatsu, the serene gateway to Shikoku Island, Japan, invites visitors to explore its lush Ritsurin Garden, a landscape masterpiece with six ponds and thirteen hills designed during the Edo Period. The garden's tranquility contrasts with the bustling Tamamo Park, home to the historical Takamatsu Castle, which uniquely utilizes seawater in its moat.

Delve into the culinary heart of Takamatsu at one of its udon noodle shops, celebrated for their distinctive Sanuki Udon. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the city's proximity to Naoshima Island, known for its modern art museums and installations, easily accessible for a fulfilling day trip. Takamatsu offers a blend of cultural experiences and scenic beauty, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in authentic Japanese culture.

Spend the day sailing in style aboard your boutique hotel at sea. Indulge in a treatment at Sanctum Spa, stay ship shape with a class at our fitness center, or lounge the day away on our sunny pool deck. In the evening, savor inspired Italian cuisine at Aqualina, or relish in a classic steakhouse experience at Prime C. Plus, you’ll find plenty of exciting evening entertainment, from thrilling shows at Cabaret Lounge to intimate performances in the Living Room.

Kyoto, Japan's former imperial capital, is renowned for its classical temples, traditional wooden houses, and beautiful gardens. Begin your exploration at Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of red torii gates. Next, head to Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, a stunning Zen temple whose top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf.

For a taste of traditional culture, visit the Gion district, where you might glimpse geishas in their exquisite kimonos. Don’t forget to indulge in Kyoto’s renowned cuisine, including matcha-flavored treats and kaiseki, a multi-course dining experience.

Kobe is a maritime gateway to one of Japan's most metropolitan cities. Mt. Rokko dominates the skyline - from the summit, you can glimpse one of the best views in all Japan. Of course, Kobe's also famous for breeding Wagyu cows that produce some of the highest-quality beef in the world!

Top Things to Do in Kobe:

• visit historic Himeji Castle, a huge edifice built entirely of wood and tiles
• enjoy a hot spring bath in Arima Onsen
• hang out with the locals at Nankingmachi Square, home to street-style Kobe beef à la carte
  

Spend the day sailing in style aboard your boutique hotel at sea. Indulge in a treatment at Sanctum Spa, stay ship shape with a class at our fitness center, or lounge the day away on our sunny pool deck. In the evening, savor inspired Italian cuisine at Aqualina, or relish in a classic steakhouse experience at Prime C. Plus, you’ll find plenty of exciting evening entertainment, from thrilling shows at Cabaret Lounge to intimate performances in the Living Room.

Hong Kong’s Ocean Terminal port has become a tourist hotspot featuring world-class hotels, restaurants and shopping, and the Kik Tak Cruise Terminal is a newer port located in Victoria Harbor. When it’s time to sightsee, both ports have nearby train transportation and plenty of taxis available.

Head to the top of the Peak Tower for a panoramic view of all of Hong Kong, then shop the Temple Street Night Market. Take a day trip to Macau or for travelers who have been to Hong Kong previously might want to take a tour to Lantau Island to visit to the Po Lin Monastery to see the huge Tian Tan Buddha.

Spend the day sailing in style aboard your boutique hotel at sea. Indulge in a treatment at Sanctum Spa, stay ship shape with a class at our fitness center, or lounge the day away on our sunny pool deck. In the evening, savor inspired Italian cuisine at Aqualina, or relish in a classic steakhouse experience at Prime C. Plus, you’ll find plenty of exciting evening entertainment, from thrilling shows at Cabaret Lounge to intimate performances in the Living Room.

From your mooring at Ha Long Bay, travel overland approximately 2.5 hours to Vietnam's millennium-old capital, Hanoi.

Step back in time and explore the Old Quarter's narrow streets, revealing 13th-century architecture. See the traditional storytelling art of water puppetry nearby in Hoan Kiem Lake or discover the serene oasis of Ngoc Son Temple.

Indulge in Vietnamese cuisine from street food to fine dining, savouring local delights like pho and banh mi. Make sure to visit the famous Hanoi Train Street, where trains narrowly pass by as you shop and dine, adding a unique and thrilling touch to your visit in this charming city.

Hue, once the capital of Vietnam, is renowned for its rich history and well-preserved heritage, epitomized by the Imperial City, a vast complex of palaces, temples, walls, and gates. The city's tranquil Perfume River adds a picturesque quality, with traditional dragon boats offering leisurely tours. Visitors are also drawn to the Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the oldest and most significant religious structures in the area.

Neighboring Da Nang is a stark contrast with its dynamic growth and modern attractions like the Dragon Bridge, which breathes fire and water each weekend night. Da Nang’s coastline, including the renowned My Khe Beach, is ideal for relaxation or watersports, while the Marble Mountains present a blend of natural beauty and spiritual significance.

The Chan May port is about an hour from the center of Da Nang, and some travelers pass through Hoi An from there. The Da Nang cruise port is minimally equipped, but there are some basic open-air market stalls with jewellery, clothes, and other Vietnamese souvenirs available for travellers to purchase.

Spend the day sailing in style aboard your boutique hotel at sea. Indulge in a treatment at Sanctum Spa, stay ship shape with a class at our fitness center, or lounge the day away on our sunny pool deck. In the evening, savor inspired Italian cuisine at Aqualina, or relish in a classic steakhouse experience at Prime C. Plus, you’ll find plenty of exciting evening entertainment, from thrilling shows at Cabaret Lounge to intimate performances in the Living Room.

Over three decades have passed since the Vietnam War ended with the fall of Saigon. Today, the name of this bustling metropolis on the Mekong River is Ho Chi Minh City. Yet, the essence of the city, remains unchanged.

The air is filled with the cries of street hawkers and honking horns. Bicycles, motorbikes and cars fly down the boulevards at dizzying speeds. And everywhere, friendly faces and warm greetings meet you. Some popular activities while in port include riding a local pedicab through the bustling streets; visiting the vibrant markets, Chinatown and the fascinating Cu Chi tunnels.

Spend the day sailing in style aboard your boutique hotel at sea. Indulge in a treatment at Sanctum Spa, stay ship shape with a class at our fitness center, or lounge the day away on our sunny pool deck. In the evening, savor inspired Italian cuisine at Aqualina, or relish in a classic steakhouse experience at Prime C. Plus, you’ll find plenty of exciting evening entertainment, from thrilling shows at Cabaret Lounge to intimate performances in the Living Room.

Singapore has two main cruise terminals. Small and medium cruise ships generally dock at the Harbourfront Center on the western end of the city across from Sentosa Island. This terminal is in one big mall, and sits beside an even bigger mall, Vivocity. There is a MRT stop conveniently located here.

A new cruise terminal, Marina Bay Cruise Centre opened May 2012 accommodating bigger cruise ships. Marina South Pier MRT station provides convenient access to the city. The station is 600m away from the cruise terminal along a sheltered walkway.

Spend the day sailing in style aboard your boutique hotel at sea. Indulge in a treatment at Sanctum Spa, stay ship shape with a class at our fitness center, or lounge the day away on our sunny pool deck. In the evening, savor inspired Italian cuisine at Aqualina, or relish in a classic steakhouse experience at Prime C. Plus, you’ll find plenty of exciting evening entertainment, from thrilling shows at Cabaret Lounge to intimate performances in the Living Room.

Hambantota, located on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, has rapidly transformed into a significant urban and maritime hub, with a deep-water port and thriving International Airport. Hambantota also offers visitors a range of wildlife and natural attractions, with the nearby Yala National Park being one of the best places in Asia to see a broad array of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and numerous bird species. The Bundala National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is also ideal for bird watching, with hundreds of species making it their home.

Additionally, the Hambantota salt pans and hot springs offer unique local experiences. These attractions, combined with the welcoming nature of its people, make Hambantota a compelling port of call in Sri Lankan.

Visitors to Sri Lanka have a wealth of options. From relaxing on some of the world's finest beaches, exploring temples, halls and palaces of the last Sinhalese kingdom at Kandy, or taking a guided tour of an elephant orphanage. Colombo also offers an array of charms, from the Royal Botanic Gardens, once a royal pleasure garden, to the Pettah Bazaar, where vendors hawk everything under the sun.

Colombo and Sri Lanka were shaped by Hindu, Buddhist, Muslim and European influences. Colombo also serves as a gateway for overland adventures to India.

Spend the day sailing in style aboard your boutique hotel at sea. Indulge in a treatment at Sanctum Spa, stay ship shape with a class at our fitness center, or lounge the day away on our sunny pool deck. In the evening, savor inspired Italian cuisine at Aqualina, or relish in a classic steakhouse experience at Prime C. Plus, you’ll find plenty of exciting evening entertainment, from thrilling shows at Cabaret Lounge to intimate performances in the Living Room.

Jeddah, the gateway to the holy city of Mecca, is a city where tradition and modernity meet against the backdrop of the Red Sea. It's known for its waterfront Corniche, dotted with sculptures and cafes, offering a picturesque setting for both relaxation and leisure. Al-Balad, the historic center, tells tales of a bygone era with its beautifully preserved Ottoman buildings and bustling markets.

The city's commitment to cultural expression shines through in its array of art galleries and festivals, making it a vibrant hub for artists and visitors alike. Jeddah also serves as a starting point for pilgrimages, blending spiritual significance with its rich maritime history. Its diverse culinary scene, from traditional Saudi dishes to international cuisine, promises a delightful experience for every palate.

Spend the day sailing in style aboard your boutique hotel at sea. Indulge in a treatment at Sanctum Spa, stay ship shape with a class at our fitness center, or lounge the day away on our sunny pool deck. In the evening, savor inspired Italian cuisine at Aqualina, or relish in a classic steakhouse experience at Prime C. Plus, you’ll find plenty of exciting evening entertainment, from thrilling shows at Cabaret Lounge to intimate performances in the Living Room.

Petra, Jordan's crown jewel, is an archaeological wonder carved directly into vibrant red, white, pink, and sandstone cliffs. This ancient city, once the thriving capital of the Nabataean kingdom, is renowned for its stunning rock-cut architecture and advanced water conduit system. The most iconic structure, Al-Khazneh (The Treasury), greets visitors with its intricate façade and towering columns, creating a breathtaking sight as you emerge from the narrow Siq gorge.

Aqaba, Jordan's only coastal city provides access to the stunning UNESCO World Heritage site city of Petra, located about 129 kilometers (80 miles) away and the desert landscape of Wadi Rum, located approximately 73 kilometers (45 miles) away. If time is tight in you can explore the Aqaba Marine Park, renowned for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. History buffs will appreciate the Aqaba Fort, a 16th-century Mamluk castle, and the adjacent archaeological museum housing artifacts from the region.

Luxor, often hailed as the world’s greatest open-air museum, stands on the site of ancient Thebes, the pharaohs’ capital at the height of their power during the 16th–11th centuries B.C. This city is a treasure trove of historical architecture, with the majestic Temple of Karnak and the Valley of the Kings offering a window into ancient Egypt’s grandeur. Luxor Temple, illuminated beautifully at night, provides a stunning backdrop for an evening stroll along the Nile.

Visitors can explore the West Bank’s mortuary temples and tombs, where the art and hieroglyphs remain as vivid as when they were first created. A hot air balloon ride at dawn offers an unforgettable view of the landscape, revealing the full extent of Luxor’s historical sites set against the Nile’s winding path.

Safaga's port is situated about 53 kms (approximately 33 miles) south of Hurghada, a popular seaside destination known for its coral reefs and aquatic sports. While Safaga itself is more industrial in nature, it does offer a few local attractions such as black sand dunes and therapeutic mineral springs but you're best to explore beyond the port. Luxor is located approximately 220 kms (about 137 miles) from Safaga and the journey can take around 3 to 4 hours by road, but the sight of Luxor's ancient wonders are worth the effort.

Sharm El Sheikh, located on the southern tip of Egypt's Sinai Peninsula, is renowned for its stunning Red Sea coastline and world-class diving sites. The crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs make it a paradise for snorkelling and scuba diving, with popular spots like Ras Mohammed National Park and the SS Thistlegorm wreck.

In addition to its underwater attractions, Sharm El Sheikh offers beautiful sandy beaches, luxurious resorts, and a bustling nightlife. The Naama Bay promenade is lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops, perfect for an evening stroll. For a touch of adventure, visitors can explore the nearby Sinai Desert through camel rides and jeep safaris. With its blend of natural beauty, leisure activities, and cultural experiences, Sharm El Sheikh is a premier destination in Egypt.

Sokhna, often referred to as Ain Sokhna, is conveniently located just an hour's drive from Cairo, making it a popular seaside escape for both locals and visitors. Its name, meaning "hot spring," comes from the nearby sulfur springs that flow from the mountains of the Eastern Desert into the Red Sea. The area combines the allure of sandy beaches with the therapeutic benefits of these warm mineral-rich waters.

Tourists can enjoy a variety of water sports or simply relax on the pristine beaches. Additionally, Sokhna serves as an excellent starting point for day trips to the historic sites of Cairo, including the Pyramids of Giza, or adventures into the rugged terrain of the desert.

Enjoy the breathtaking illusion of sailing through oceans of desert sand as you cruise the Suez Canal, the engineering marvel that connects the Mediterranean and Red Seas.

As you transit the 101 mile expanse, admire the desert views occasionally interrupted by little villages, with domed mosques and minarets towering into the sky.

The passage requires no locks, as both bodies of water are at about the same level. Not wide enough to allow 2-way passage, 3 convoys are scheduled to transit the canal on a typical day, two southbound and one northbound.

Spend the day sailing in style aboard your boutique hotel at sea. Indulge in a treatment at Sanctum Spa, stay ship shape with a class at our fitness center, or lounge the day away on our sunny pool deck. In the evening, savor inspired Italian cuisine at Aqualina, or relish in a classic steakhouse experience at Prime C. Plus, you’ll find plenty of exciting evening entertainment, from thrilling shows at Cabaret Lounge to intimate performances in the Living Room.

Santorini, a jewel of the Aegean Sea, is renowned for its breathtaking sunsets and distinctive white-washed buildings with blue domes. Begin your exploration in Fira, the island's bustling capital, where narrow streets are lined with charming shops, cafes, and stunning views of the caldera. Don't miss the Archaeological Museum of Thera to glimpse into the island's ancient past.

A short journey from Fira, the village of Oia awaits with its iconic sunset views and picturesque architecture. Wander through its winding alleys, and discover unique art galleries and boutiques. For a taste of local flavors, indulge in fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes at a cliffside taverna. End your visit with a relaxing afternoon on one of Santorini's famous black sand beaches.

Syros, the capital of the Cyclades, is a gem in the Aegean Sea, captivating visitors with its blend of traditional Greek culture and neoclassical beauty. The island's capital, Ermoupoli, is a visual feast, with its striking town hall and Apollo Theater, often likened to a miniature La Scala.

Venturing beyond Ermoupoli, travelers find tranquil beaches like Galissas and Finikas, perfect for unwinding after a morning of exploration. The island's culinary scene is a delight, with local specialties such as loukoumi - small cubes made of a mixture of sugar, water and starch that are offered in a number of scents and flavours and the famous halvadopita (nougat pie), offering a taste of Syros' rich cultural tapestry.

Welcome to the ancient city of Athens, the 'Cradle of Western Civilisation' and a historian’s delight. Uncover the awe-inspiring Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site, adorned with iconic structures like the Parthenon and nearby Temple of Olympian Zeus. The nearby Acropolis Museum showcases stunning artifacts from ancient Greece, providing deeper insight into the city's heritage.

Afterward, wander through Plaka, Athens' oldest neighborhood, known for its narrow streets, neoclassical architecture, and charming tavernas. For lunch, indulge in traditional Greek cuisine like moussaka or souvlaki. Head to the National Garden for a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city, perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll amid lush greenery and historical statues.

Athen's city center is located about 12 km (7.5 miles) from Piraeus and it takes roughly 20-30 minutes to reach by taxi or train. A taxi ride to the airport from Piraeus will take approximately 40-60 minutes, depending on the traffic. The taxi fare (indicative only) is around 45 euros in the daytime and 64 euros at night (24:00-05:00).