Home > Tours > Europe Tours > Eastern Med Tours > Greece Tours & Cruises > A Journey of Dramatic Shores & Sunlit Beauty

A Journey of Dramatic Shores & Sunlit Beauty

10 Days Athens to Venice
A Journey of Dramatic Shores & Sunlit Beauty
A Journey of Dramatic Shores & Sunlit Beauty
A Journey of Dramatic Shores & Sunlit Beauty
Split
Split
Athens
Athens
Istanbul
Istanbul
Koper
Koper
Cruising At Sea
Cruising At Sea
Piran
Piran
Santorini
Santorini
Kotor
Kotor
Venice
Venice
Kotor
Kotor

Overview

Set sail from lively Athens and enjoy a blisful day at sea before arriving in the energetic city of Istanbul, with its backdrop of enchanting landscapes, surrounded by the shimmering Bosphorus. Drift onwards to explore Santorini’s dramatic beauty, then glide into the stunning bay of Kotor and discover the historic charms of Split. Discover Koper’s medieval streets and underground wonderlands, then float to our final fanfare among the iconic canals of Venice.
Sold Out
There are currently no departures available on this trip. Either the season has ended and new dates will be released soon, or the itinerary has been updated and isn’t operating this season.
Trip Length
Cruise Length

10 Days

Trip Starts
Cruise Starts

Athens

Trip Ends
Cruise Ends

Venice

Countries Visited
Oceans Sailed:
Cruise Line
Cruise Line
Explora Journeys
Cruise Shi
Cruise Ship
Explora II
Ship Reviews
1 Ship Review
Avg. Rating: 5/5
Passengers
Passengers

922

Crew
Crew

700

Ship Launch
Launched

2024

Cruise Code
Cruise Code

PIRFSA10

Itinerary

Departs: 20:00

Welcome to the ancient city of Athens, the 'Cradle of Western Civilisation'. If your schedule is tight, savor traditional Greek coffee at a café with a view of the city's iconic ruins, soaking in the historic ambiance before your cruise departs. If you've got time to explore the Acropolis stands as a must-see, 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.

Port:Piraeus

Piraeus is located about 12 km (7.5 miles) from the city center and it takes roughly 20-30 minutes to reach by taxi or train. A taxi ride from the airport to Piraeus port 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).

A day at sea with Explora Journeys blends luxury, relaxation, and vibrant cosmopolitan life. Enjoy a morning Sundial Salutation to invigorate your body, followed by breakfast at the Emporium Marketplace. Hone your photography skills in the Explora Lounge, or indulge in a luxurious spa treatment as part of the Ocean Wellness program. Savor lunch at the Med Yacht Club, with dishes paired with regional wines.

Spend the afternoon at the adults-only Helios Pool & Bar or join a mixology class at the Malt Whisky Bar. As evening approaches, enjoy a Sunset Aperitivo with drinks and bites inspired by your destinations. End your day with an intimate candlelight performance, a Decadence experience, or enjoy a relaxing nightcap with panoramic ocean views.

Arrives: 08:00 Departs: 02:00

Once the seat of two massive empires, Istanbul has been shaped by its colourful history. From massive Byzantine churches, to towering Ottoman mosques, history can be found in each building no matter what part of the city you wander through. Ships will dock at the Galataport cruise ship terminal which is a 40 minute drive from the Istanbul Airport.

Top Things to Do in Istanbul:

  • marvel at the Blue Mosque
  • haggle at the Grand Bazaar
  • explore the Underground Cistern
  • visit the Hagia Sofia

Arrives: 09:00 Departs: 18:00

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.

A day at sea with Explora Journeys blends luxury, relaxation, and vibrant cosmopolitan life. Enjoy a morning Sundial Salutation to invigorate your body, followed by breakfast at the Emporium Marketplace. Hone your photography skills in the Explora Lounge, or indulge in a luxurious spa treatment as part of the Ocean Wellness program. Savor lunch at the Med Yacht Club, with dishes paired with regional wines.

Spend the afternoon at the adults-only Helios Pool & Bar or join a mixology class at the Malt Whisky Bar. As evening approaches, enjoy a Sunset Aperitivo with drinks and bites inspired by your destinations. End your day with an intimate candlelight performance, a Decadence experience, or enjoy a relaxing nightcap with panoramic ocean views.

Arrives: 09:00 Departs: 18:00

Kotor is a beautiful walled medieval city of twisting, pink-paved streets, markets and architecture reflecting Byzantine to Venetian influences. Nestled between the Adriatic Sea to the west and the limestone-covered mountain range of Mt. Lovćen to the east, this historic city boasts a magnificent natural setting. Ships will dock or anchor offshore at this port.

Top Things to Do in Kotor:

  • take in the view from St John's fortress
  • explore Old Town
  • hike at Lovćen National Park
  • spend the day in Budva

Arrives: 08:00 Departs: 18:00

Lying on the Adriatic Sea's eastern shore, Split is known for its terracotta roofs, whitewashed buildings, palm-tree-lined promenade and azure waters. A city of romantic beauty, it was built around the historic Diocletian’s Palace. Ships will dock or anchor at this port.

Top Things to Do in Split:

  • explore Krka National Park
  • visit the city-island of Trogir
  • admire the Diocletian's Palace
  • swim in the warm water at Bačvice Beach
  • go white water rafting on Cetina River
  • explore Vranjaca Cave

Arrives: 08:00 Departs: 20:00

Backed by hills of olive groves and vineyards, the historic port of Koper boasts a colourful history dating back to Ancient Greece and Rome that springs to life in its Old Town. Koper is also your gateway to Ljubljana, the nation's capital, a graceful city of Baroque and Art Nouveau architecture and bridges. Ships will dock at the Potniški terminal.

Top Things to Do in Koper:

  • admire the architecture in Tito Square
  • explore Lake Bled
  • tour the Postojna Caves
  • shop the open air market in Ljubljana

Arrives: 08:00

Delve into ancient palaces, century-old galleries, and modern-day exhibits as you whirl through Venice. Walk through masterpieces, catch an opera, gaze at medieval buildings, blow Murano glass and drift down the Grand Canal by gondola to visit churches, convents and campi “squares” that vary in spirit and scale. Cross hump-backed bridges, reach teeming Piazza San Marco’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace, or duck down passages to escape reality. From palazzos to perfumeries and the must-see Bridge of Sighs, you’re only moments from a place of beauty in this liquid-gold city of treasures.

Port:Fusina

Fusina Terminal is located about 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) from the heart of Venice. The journey to the city center typically takes around 20-30 minutes by shuttle bus or water taxi.

Note: Ship ports may not be located in the starting & ending cities listed. Port and transfer details will be provided in your travel documentation. The provided itinerary is for informational purposes only. Activities and sightseeing attractions listed may not be available or achievable within the time in port.

Life On Board

Explora Journeys
 (1) Review
Total No. of Cruises 293
Explora Journeys is the new luxury lifestyle travel brand launched in 2023 by the MSC group redefining the luxury ocean experience. Vibrant, cosmopolitan relaxed European luxury at sea. Instead of cruises we create journeys – of the mind and across the oceans of the world, as we visit extraordinary places on and off the beaten track.
EXPLORA II
EXPLORA II

EXPLORA II embarked on her maiden voyage in 2024, paving the way to new discoveries and furthering possibilities. Exquisitely designed to offer you relaxed luxury, restoring life's essential balance with a combination of discovery and appreciation for wellbeing and nature. Read more

Inclusive Journeys
Inclusive Journeys

Experience vibrant cosmopolitan life aboard, with European luxury, 5-star dining, ocean wellness experiences, and tech-savvy comforts in sophisticated suites, all while enjoying beautiful sea views. Read more

Your Home At Sea
Your Home At Sea

Elegant, spacious and comfortable our ocean-front suites, penthouses and residences are designed to create a home at sea for our guests. Read more

Dining At Sea
Dining At Sea

Celebrating global talents and cultures, infusing global influences with personality, sophistication, and a touch of soul for a unique dining experience at sea. Read more

Leisure Experiences
Leisure Experiences

Discover Explora Journeys' collection of one-of-a-kind entertainment and enrichment experiences, designed to stimulate the mind and feed the soul. Read more

Ocean Inspired Wellness
Ocean Inspired Wellness

Ocean Wellness encompasses the physical, spiritual, and emotional health of our guests, ensuring their time with us is enriching and fulfilling. Read more

Ship Reviews (1)

Explora Journeys Reviews
Reviews 1 Review
Average Rating 5 out of 5
5 Star
100%
4 Star
3 Star
2 Star
1 Star
Explorer 2 - Wow just Wow 1 , NSW, Australia, Mar 2025
We had an amazing experience on Explora 2 from Lisbon to Barcelona in early April. The boarding was seamless, our cabin a lovely quiet haven, the food and restaurants were amazing, with so much choice. The icing on the cake was the Explora team, everyone was so friendly and nothing was ever too much trouble. We loved it and will return. Thank you read more for such a wonderful holiday.
Play Youtube Video

Download Brochure

Explora Journeys  (2027) Brochure

Explora Journeys (2027)

Explora Journeys is the new luxury lifestyle travel brand launched by the MSC Group with the ambition to redefine the luxury cruise category.The concept: Vibrant, cosmopolitan, relaxed European luxury at sea. Instead of cruises, we create journeys – of the mind, and across the oceans of the world, to destinations on and off the beaten track. On board: more Spaces that offer guests relaxed luxury, creating a home at sea. Restoring life’s essential balance with a combination of discovery and appreciation for wellbeing and nature. This is what our new discerning travellers have asked for and this is what they will enjoy on Explora Journeys.

Prices & Dates

There are currently no departures available on this cruise. Either it's the end of the season and new departures will be released shortly, or this itinerary has been changed and is not operating this season. Feel free to contact us for information about when next seasons dates will be released or click here to view general release dates for all destinations.

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 Explora Journeys. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and 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.

Similar Cruises

11 Day A Journey Through Peaceful Shores & Cultural Gems (Explora Journeys)

11 Days Hong Kong Singapore

Operated By: Explora Journeys

From 7,905
11 Day A Journey Of Mediterranean Spirit & Cultural Exploration (Explora Journeys)

11 Days Barcelona Barcelona

Operated By: Explora Journeys

From 5,960