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Athens to Istanbul Adventure

4.7/5 Based on 3 Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Cruise Advisor

Athens to Istanbul Adventure

4.7/5 Based on 3 Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Cruise Advisor
New Release Cruise Island Hopping
Oceanview
$5,936
Suite
$7,965
* Port charges, taxes and fees included
 Cruise Length
8 Days
 Cruise Starts
Athens
 Cruise Finishes
Istanbul
8 Day Athens to Istanbul Adventure Itinerary (Emerald Cruises)
Countries Explored: Greece, Turkey
 Cruise Length
8 Days
 Cruise Starts
Athens
 Cruise Finishes
Istanbul
8 Day Athens to Istanbul Adventure Itinerary (Emerald Cruises)
Countries Explored: Greece, Turkey
Ship
Departures
Passengers
128
Crew
92
Launched
2026
Cruise Code
E05G-1
Ship
Departures
Passengers
128
Crew
92
Launched
2026
Cruise Code
E05G-1

Overview

Spectacular adventures along the coastlines and islands of Greece, Turkey, Croatia, Italy, France and Spain are yours to experience as you discover the Mediterranean from the comfort of your stylish yacht. This wondrous 8-day cruise commences in Greece and its dynamic capital, Athens, before setting sail for the stunning island of Milos, alluring for its crystal-clear azure waters and unique rock formations. Then visit the spectacular volcanic island of Santorini, famous for its breathtaking sunsets and iconic, whitewashed buildings. Your voyage continues to the sacred island of Delos, the vibrant...read more island of Mykonos and Patmos, an island known for its religious significance.

You’ll next sail on to Turkish shores and Kusadasi, which provides a marvellous opportunity to explore the ancient ruins of Ephesus. The final stops of this grand adventure will be in the Turkish cities of Kepez and Istanbul, where you can further immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of this fascinating country.
Beginning in the historic Greek capital, Athens, you’ll cruise the Aegean Sea and Dardanelles Strait and explore the beautiful Greek and Turkish coastlines with stops at a succession of stunning Greek islands, relishing ancient ruins, storied heritage and spectacular beauty, before concluding your voyage in captivating Istanbul, where Europe and Asia meet. Embark on an unforgettable 8-day cruise along the beautiful coastlines of Greece and Turkey, on board your luxury yacht. During this Mediterranean voyage, discover ancient wonders, including several UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites, rich...read more heritage and culture and breathtaking beauty.

Setting sail from the ancient Greek capital, Athens, you’ll cruise through the azure Aegean Sea, bound for a succession of wondrous Greek islands. Discover the lesser-known island of Milos, welcoming with its unique rock formations and secluded beaches and the contrasting Mykonos and Santorini, islands, world-famous for their spectacular scenery, striking whitewashed architecture and cosmopolitan flair. You'll also visit tranquil Patmos, renowned for its important religious significance and Delos, home to one of Greece’s most important archaeological sites.

Arriving in Turkey, enjoy the charms of two fascinating ports of call, including the picturesque seaside town, Kusadasi, where you can explore ancient ruins and traditional Turkish markets. As you sail through the historic Dardanelles Strait, a narrow passage linking the Aegean to the Sea of Marmara - admire the mesmerising views, before concluding your journey in timeless Istanbul, which rests on the boundary of Europe and Asia.

Itinerary

Today marks the beginning of your unforgettable journey with Emerald Cruises. Your luxury superyacht is ready for boarding. (D)

Your first port of call is Milos, a Greek island renowned for its unique natural beauty, often referred to as the ‘Island of Colours’ due to its diverse soil shades, including yellow, orange, red, and dazzling white. This is made even more dramatic set against the backdrop of turquoise waters. Milos is also the original home of the iconic marble statue, Venus of Milo. (B/L/D)

One of the most photogenic islands in the world, Santorini is an eye-catching destination, iconic for its whitewashed buildings clustered atop soaring cliffs dramatically rising out of the ocean. This hugely popular island is renowned for the striking beauty of its trademark architecture of gleaming white buildings and domed rooftops, as well as the volcanic-sand beaches and legendary sunsets. (B/L/D)

A small rocky island in the heart of the Cyclades archipelago, Delos is one of the most important mythological and archaeological sites in Greece. In the afternoon, you’ll sail on to another Greek island, Mykonos. This world-famous island’s allure rests in its blend of traditional Greek culture and cosmopolitan flair. Whitewashed houses with vibrant blue doors lining the streets of atmospheric Mykonos town add to the charm, so too, the island’s historic windmills. (B/L/D)

Patmos is a small Greek island in the Aegean Sea steeped in religious history. The Monastery of Saint John the Theologian, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, towers over the island's charming capital, Chora. Nearby, you'll find the Cave of the Apocalypse, where, according to legend, Saint John wrote the Book of Revelation. (B/L/D)

On Turkey’s western Aegean coast, Kusadasi offers fascinating blend of history, beautiful beaches, and vibrant markets. This beach resort town’s history dates to ancient times and it has witnessed many rulers, including those from the Byzantine, Venetian, and Genoese eras. It lies near several ancient ruins, including the ancient city of Ephesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, that offers a glimpse into the grandeur of one of the ancient world's most important cities. (B/L/D)

Located along Turkey's coast, this popular destination comes steeped in history and is famed for its authentic Turkish culture and culinary traditions. In addition, Kepez offers numerous outdoor activities, including hiking and cycling in the surrounding parks and verdant forests, as well as enticing beaches. (B/L/D)

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Emerald Cruises cannot guarantee the cruise will operated unaltered from the itinerary states above. (B)

Your unforgettable cruise begins in Greece and its ancient capital, Athens. The birthplace of democracy and western civilisation, this enthralling city presents a remarkable blend of rich traditions with modern dynamism. From here, you’ll be transferred to your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht to begin your incredible voyage of discovery through Greece and Turkey. (D)

Your first port of call is Milos, a Greek island renowned for its unique natural beauty, often referred to as the ‘Island of Colours,’ due to its diverse soil shades, including yellow, orange, red, and dazzling white. This extraordinary landscape, extending to unique rock formations, appears even more dramatic, set against the backdrop of sparkling turquoise waters. Milos is also famous as the original home of the iconic marble statue, Venus of Milo, an ancient sculpture believed to represent the Goddess Aphrodite and now displayed in the Louvre Museum, Paris, France. (B/L/D)

One of the most world’s photogenic islands, Santorini presents a spectacular destination, iconic for its whitewashed buildings clustered across soaring cliffs that overlook the Aegean Sea. This hugely popular Greek island is also renowned for its volcanic landscapes and black sand beaches. The picturesque main town, Fira, dramatically rests on the edge of a caldera cliff, presenting jaw-dropping vistas, while Oia, one of Santorini’s charming traditional villages, is especially worth a visit for its quaint narrow streets, trademark blue-domed churches and legendary sunsets. (B/L/D)

A small, rocky island in the heart of the stunning Cyclades archipelago, Delos is one of the most important mythological and archaeological sites in Greece, believed to be the birthplace of the Greek God, Apollo and his twin sister, Artemis. In the afternoon, you’ll sail on to another beautiful Greek island, Mykonos. The allure of this world-famous island lies in its blend of traditional Greek culture and cosmopolitan flair. Whitewashed houses adorned with vibrant blue doors edging the narrow, cobblestone streets of atmospheric Mykonos Town, further add to the charm; so too, the island’s historic windmills and pretty beaches. (B/L/D)

Today, you’ll arrive in Patmos, a small Greek island in the Aegean Sea revered for its religious significance. The imposing Monastery of Saint John the Theologian, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, towers over the island's capital, Chora, which is charming in itself, with quaint whitewashed buildings lining the narrow, cobblestone streets. Nearby, you'll find the Cave of the Apocalypse, where, according to local legend, Saint John wrote the Book of Revelation. Patmos is also renowned for its delicious regional cuisine, a mix of traditional Greek dishes and freshly caught seafood. (B/L/D)

Set on Turkey’s western Aegean coastline, Kusadasi offers a fascinating blend of history, beautiful beaches, and traditional Turkish markets. This beach resort town’s history dates back to ancient times and has witnessed many rulers, including those from the Byzantine, Venetian, and Genoese eras. Kusadasi is located near several historical ruins, including the ancient city of Ephesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which today offers a glimpse into the grandeur of one of the ancient world's most important cities. (B/L/D)

Continuing along Turkey’s stunning coastline, you’ll arrive in Kepez, a popular seaside town steeped in history, with ancient sites such as the Old Town and Hadrian's Gate, and and famed for its authentic Turkish culture and culinary traditions. In addition, Kepez offers numerous outdoor pursuits, including hiking and cycling in the surrounding parks and verdant forests, or simply relaxing on the enticing beaches.

As the sun begins its descent, your luxury yacht will set sail through the historic Dardanelles Strait, a narrow passage linking the Aegean Sea to the Sea of Marmara. Take in the mesmerising views of rugged coastlines, ancient ruins, and rolling hills bathed in golden evening light. (B/L/D)

Today, your grand adventure concludes in Istanbul, a timeless Turkish city at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, where diverse cultures, rich history and modernity seamlessly intertwine. From the yacht, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your return flight home, or to continue your holiday.

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Emerald Cruises cannot guarantee the cruise will operated unaltered from the itinerary states above. (B)

Life Onboard Emerald Raiya

Emerald Raiya
Emerald Raiya

Experience the superyacht lifestyle aboard the Emerald Raiya. Read more

Yacht Cruising Experience
Yacht Cruising Experience

Enjoy generously sized spaces and award-winning service aboard this brand new luxury yacht. Read more

Fine Dining
Fine Dining

Savour delicious flavours prepared by expert chefs with the freshest local ingredients. Read more

Wellness Centre
Wellness Centre

Revitalise, relax and restore yourself with access to the onboard Wellness Centre. Read more

Included Excursions
Included Excursions

Each itinerary includes a thoughtful selection of excursions led by local guides. Read more

Marina Platform
Marina Platform

Explore the water with our marina toys, being as adventurous or relaxed as you like. Read more

Emerald Azzurra Reviews (3) Most Recent 'Emerald Azzurra' Reviews

4.7
AVG. RATING 4.7 / 5
3 Reviews
5 Star
67%
4 Star
33%
3 Star
2 Star
1 Star
Impressive ship and itinerary   2 , QLD, Australia, Jul 2024
This was our first time with Emerald Azzuarra having previously travelled on the Scenic Eclipse. We loved the relaxed and non crowded feel of Azzurra. Being a smaller ship it was able to go to ports the bigger cruise lines cannot reach which was fabulous. We realized how great this was when we visited places like Debrovnick and Split that had 3-4 ...read more other big cruise lines in port and the places were PACKED! This itinerary was fabulous. We travelled mostly overnight and woke up each morning to a postcard view of a new town. The Croatian coastline and towns were stunning. Montenegro was just as beautiful, and whilst Albania was interesting , one day was perfect. Coming through the Corinth Cananl with only centimetres to spare on either side was a highlight.

The Emerald Azzurra crew were also amazing. Friendly, personable and attentive. Nothing was a problem for them. There are a few things Emerald need to work on such as food choices and consistency of quality though. We were told they are bringing people from Scenic Eclipse to elevate the experience. Emerald Azzurra is not in the class of Scenic Eclipse yet but has all the elements to be just as impressive with a bit more work. Overall we loved the trip and would travel with Emerald again.
My Perspective   1 , QLD, Australia, Jun 2024
My wife and I have just returned from our cruise on board the Azzurra. For my wife it was her first time on the open seas, and for me, an opportunity to experience small ship cruising with one of our long term cruise line partners. I'm the CEO of of Global Journeys, so I thought I should put in some extra effort and provide you with a thorough review ...read more of our experience on board and on shore. Our rating gives it away a bit...but it's not all smooth sailing! Read my full review here if you're interested, but if not, then suffice to say, small ship cruising with Emerald will be a new experience for many and we'd both recomend this cruise and the ship to our friends and family.
Amazing Azzurra 5 , VIC, Australia, May 2023
Eleven days of pure bliss, our expectations were surpassed on this voyage from Athens to Athens. We could not fault any aspect of our time aboard or any of the activities we enjoyed. Special mentions go to Karen (activities), Paul (chef & his crew) and Ozay in the spa.

Brochure

Emerald Yacht Cruises (2024-26) Brochure

Emerald Yacht Cruises (2024-26)

See the world from a new perspective. Set sail on an Emerald yacht cruise that immerses you in luxury and allows you access to fascinating ports and harbors that only small vessels can reach. Be one of only 100 guests with a dedicated crew of 76.

Availability USD USD Port charges, taxes and fees included.

2 for 1 Fare + Fly Free Economy2 for 1 Fare
Saturday 20 Jun 2026
Saturday 27 Jun 2026
Ship Emerald Azzurra
Ocean View
Save $6,155
$6,035
View Cabins
Suite
Save $8,226
$8,064
View Cabins
Mutiple Deals Available
Saturday 08 Aug 2026
Saturday 15 Aug 2026
Ship Emerald Azzurra
Ocean View
Save $6,054
$5,936
View Cabins
Suite
Save $8,125
$7,965
View Cabins
2 for 1 Fare + Fly Free Economy
Saturday 20 Jun 2026
Saturday 27 Jun 2026
Ship Emerald Azzurra
Ocean View
Save $12,013
$12,367
View Cabins
Suite
Save $16,154
$16,426
View Cabins
2 for 1 Fare + Fly Free Economy2 for 1 Fare + Fly Free Premium Economy
Saturday 08 Aug 2026
Saturday 15 Aug 2026
Ship Emerald Azzurra
Ocean View
Save $11,811
$12,169
View Cabins
Suite
Save $15,952
$16,228
View Cabins
2 for 1 Fare
Saturday 14 Aug 2027
Saturday 21 Aug 2027
Ship Emerald Raiya
Ocean View
Save $7,579
$7,411
View Cabins
Suite
Save $9,876
$9,664
View Cabins
2 for 1 Fare
Saturday 14 Aug 2027
Saturday 21 Aug 2027
Ship Emerald Raiya
Ocean View
Save $14,841
$15,139
View Cabins
Suite
Save $19,436
$19,644
View Cabins
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Emerald Cruises. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Emerald Cruises. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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