Home > Cruises > Mediterranean Cruises > In the Footsteps of Antiquity

In the Footsteps of Antiquity

4.8/5 Based on 5 Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Travel Advisor
Sold Out
 Cruise Length
27 Days
 Cruise Starts
Mumbai
 Cruise Finishes
Venice
27 Day In the Footsteps of Antiquity Itinerary (Viking)
Countries Explored: India, Oman, Jordan, Egypt, Israel, Turkey, Greece, Italy
Cruise Line
Viking
Ship
Passengers
930
Crew
465
Launched
2017
Cruise Code
VKIFA

Overview

Sail into the ancient past on this intriguing voyage. Begin with an overnight in Mumbai. Continue on to seaside Muscat and gaze upon imposing ruins in Egypt. Walk among remarkably preserved sites of antiquity in Ephesus. Overnight in Istanbul and admire Athens's iconic highlights before concluding your journey in Venice.

Itinerary

Arrive in the bustling metropolis of Mumbai, formerly known as Bombay. Constructed over seven islands, today the city straddles a flat peninsula jutting into the sea. Beyond the modern skyline, discover a great diversity of neighborhoods, making any exploration of Mumbai full of surprises. As we remain in port overnight, you will have time to enjoy dinner in town if you wish.

Witness the cultural splendor of Old Bombay today. Constructed across seven islands, today the city straddles a flat peninsula jutting into the sea. The city's Portuguese and British influences come to light as you view the Library of the Asiatic Society, the Hanging Gardens, Kamla Nehru Park and Dhobi Ghat, where locals still do laundry. You will also visit the National Gandhi Museum, housed in a mansion known as Mani Bhavan that the Indian hero used as his headquarters from 1917 to 1934, and see major monuments built during the British era.

Follow in the wake of traders, seafarers and adventurers who crossed the Arabian Sea over millennia. The first vessels traced the coastline some 5,000 years ago. In the days of the ancient Greeks, the Indian city of Bharuch to the north of Mumbai was already an established sea port. As you sail, relax by the Main Pool or enjoy the sea breeze from your stateroom veranda.

Call on the Arabian Peninsula today for a fascinating visit to Muscat, capital of Oman. Enjoy a city tour among its whitewashed buildings, featuring a photo stop at the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, able to accommodate 20,000 worshippers, and explore the low-lying structures of the Old Town, huddled around a small bay. Visit the private House of al Zubair museum with its remarkably preserved items of Omani heritage, and take in local life in the city's traditional souk. This sleepy historic enclave serves as the home of the ruling sultan.

The starkly beautiful coast of Oman is kissed by emerald-green waters, dotted with low-lying whitewashed villages and draped in sands and rock whose colors shift in the warm desert glow from coffee-colored hues to vibrant golds. In medieval days, these waters were teeming with ships trading incense, spices, precious stones and countless other valuable goods. Take in the best that the regional flavors of the coast have to offer in a cooking class at The Kitchen Table.

Explore the Omani city of Salālah today on the southeastern edge of the Arabian Peninsula. For centuries, Salālah was a major port for frankincense, a trade which extended far beyond the region. This fascinating cultural history was supported by several sites around the city, some of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites today. Take in the major landmarks when you stop for photos at the Sultan Qaboos Mosque, rich in Islamic architecture, and visit the Al-Baleed archaeological site, where you will learn more about the frankincense route.

Ancient Egyptians sailed the waters of the Red Sea as long ago as 2500 BC. More famously, Moses is said to have parted its waters. And it was a favored route among ancient Romans as they traded with India. History and legend are rich here, and you can learn more about them during an enrichment lecture about the Middle East. This evening, enjoy cocktails in the Explorers' Lounge or perhaps an authentic Italian meal at Manfredi's trattoria-style restaurant.

Call on Aqaba, Jordan's only coastal city, set amid bleached-out desert hills. History here stretches back centuries, but it is best known as the site where, in 1917, T.E. Lawrence (known as Lawrence of Arabia) led troops in the Battle of Aqaba. Stop to explore Mamluk Fort—won by the Arabs from the Turks during a 1916 camel charge—the opulent house of Sharif Hussein bin Ali and the lively waterfront. You might also journey to the region's must-see archaeological treasure of Petra, an astonishing city of red sandstone carved from the earth millennia ago.

Call on Safaga today, an ancient Red Sea port that has been in use since the 3rd century. It is also the gateway to the magnificent temples of ancient Thebes—today's city of Luxor. Traverse the desert sands to the shores of the Nile River, where you will visit the spectacular Temple of Karnak, long buried beneath desert sands. Walk through its monumental peristyles and examine the hieroglyphics illustrating how ancient Egyptians lived.

Visit the seaside resort of Sharm el-Sheikh (called 'Sharm' by the locals) on the southern tip of the Sinai Desert. This major Egyptian center of tourism on the Red Sea, renowned for its unrivaled scuba diving among vibrant coral, is surrounded by starkly beautiful desert. Today you may choose to leave the city and explore the sands up close during a Desert Jeep Tour into a world shrouded in legend.

Transit the Suez Canal today, a travel milestone. This engineering marvel, opened in 1869, connected the Mediterranean Sea and the Red Sea, changing the region's geographic and commercial landscape forever. The sea-level, one-way waterway requires ships to travel in convoys; two lakes, Ballah Bypass and Great Bitter Lake, allow north- and southbound ships to pass each other.

Call on Port Said today, founded about 150 years ago as a working base for the construction of the Suez Canal. Port Said is also a gateway to the Great Pyramids and Great Sphinx on the outskirts of Cairo. Join an included tour to uncover their mysteries.

Call on the port of Ashdod today, just one hour from Jerusalem. You can explore the holy city on an included excursion that takes you into the heart of the Jewish Quarter to view the Western Wall, the Temple Mount and the Dome of the Rock. Or, delve deeper on an optional excursion as you visit the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem.

Arrive in Haifa today, an ideal port from which to explore the north of Israel. Ascend Mt. Carmel, where it is said that the prophet Elijah set fire to a sacrifice and ended a drought. On the mountain's slope overlooking the city, enjoy commanding views of the magnificent terraced Hanging Gardens of Haifa, center of the Bahá'í faith. Explore the fascinating Old City of Acre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in the world. Alternatively, you can choose to explore ancient Caesarea, built by King Herod as an early center of Christianity, go up Mt. Carmel for a closer look, and enjoy stunning views of Haifa and the countryside.

Enjoy a day on board as you cruise the Mediterranean Sea. Take in the sea views from the Explorers' Lounge or reserve a soothing massage at The Spa. Linger over tea and scones in the Wintergarden or soak up the sun on deck.

Journey into the ancient world today with a visit to Ephesus, one of the best-preserved cities of antiquity in the world. Stroll the uneven streets of this once-powerful metropolis and pass sights such as the massive Great Theater and the magnificent Library of Celsus. Visit the remains of the Byzantine Basilica of St. John and see the modest home where legend states that the Virgin Mary lived out her final days. Or, take a scenic drive to the Oracle of Didyma and the Temple of Apollo, part of a once-elaborate Hellenic sanctuary.

Discover where East meets West as you arrive today in Istanbul. Take time to admire this city that straddles two continents across the Bosphorus Strait, with its Old Quarter skyline of domes and minarets and the twinkling lights of modern Istanbul across the water. Sample delicious cuisine for a taste of this fusion, combining fresh Mediterranean fare with spices from the Far East and Asia. Enjoy a wealth of religious sites, such as the spectacular Blue Mosque and the legendary Hagia Sophia. We are docked overnight here, so you will have a full day tomorrow to explore this historic port.

Spend a second day in Istanbul as you immerse yourself in local life and Turkish traditions. Visit a hamman and partake in a centuries-old wellness ritual. Or, you can relax and take in the sights as you cruise the Bosphorus Strait, where old-world ships once sailed as they delivered spices to Istanbul's lively bazaars.

Cross the Aegean Sea today; a cradle of two great ancient civilazations that have shaped the western world as we know it today. Take this relaxing day at sea to unwind and admire the vistas from your stateroom veranda.

Today, you will have the entire day to journey into ancient Athens via a panoramic drive, passing the promenade at Mikrolimano Marina as you enter the city's heart. There, you will see the Hellenic Parliament, Syntagma (Constitution) Square, the Panathenaic Stadium, the Temple of Zeus and the iconic Acropolis. Explore the bustling Plaka District at the base of the Acropolis. Or, as an option, explore the interior of this UNESCO Site; climb 80 steps to the entrance for an unforgettable view of the Parthenon at its peak.

Enjoy the amenities on your ship today as we sail the Adriatic Sea, passing the Balkan States and toward the Italian Peninsula. Share a cappuccino in the Viking Bar with new friends, enjoy a visit to The Spa or relax on the Sun Deck. Finish the day with a drink in Torshavn.

Disembark this morning and transfer to the Venice airport for your flight home. Or explore with our extension in this fascinating city.

Life Onboard Viking Sky

Viking Sky
Viking Sky

Launched in 2017, the Viking Sky is an all-veranda ship, part of a fleet of award winning, state of the art ships incorporating all the comforts & luxuries you would expect from Viking. Read more

The Thinking Person's Cruise
The Thinking Person's Cruise

Viking are destination experts. With no casinos or children on board, you can be assured that the focus is firmly on enrichment and education. Read more

And Relax
And Relax

After a day of exploration or just to enhance the relaxation of a day at sea, the on-board Spa will leave you feeling recharged and revitalized. Read more

Destination Focused Dining
Destination Focused Dining

Viking offer eight on board dining options. Beer, wine and soft drinks are available with lunch and dinner at no additional charge of fee. Read more

All Inclusive
All Inclusive

Viking proudly includes all that you need and nothing you do not. A variety of features and services valued at $200 per person per day are standard inclusions in your cruise. Read more

Onshore Experiences
Onshore Experiences

Viking include one complimentary shore excursion in every port of call. Enjoy exclusive entry to cultural treasures and seldom-seen collections around the world. Read more

Play Youtube Video

Viking Sky Reviews (5) Most Recent 'Viking Sky' Reviews

4.8
AVG. RATING 4.8 / 5
5 Reviews
5 Star
80%
4 Star
20%
3 Star
2 Star
1 Star
Viking cruise Venice to Istanbul 0 , VIC, Australia, Aug 2023
Thanks Tracey, the cruise and itinerary was first class with nothing too much trouble for the friendly Viking crew. There were highlights and tours at every port, each one offering amazing insights into these ancient countries and cities. Global Journeys made the booking process simple and assistance always available.

The only downside for us was ...read more the airline choice and final booking for flights seemed rushed with limited options. I realise we chose Singapore Airlines economy but on reflection it was a poor choice, crowded and uncomfortable. I think more time and advice from Global Journeys should have been available. The return flight took the shine off the experience.
Viking Homelands 11 , WA, Australia, Aug 2019
We were so impressed with our recent ocean cruise onboard the Viking Sky. We boarded the ship on 25th August to do The Viking Homelands, and loved everything about the whole journey. So much to do onboard with space for everyone and the free excursions in every port with excellent local guides and time to explore afterwards, as well as optional more ...read more in-depth tours on offer. The service throughout was exceptional, as was the food and restaurant choices .

The Baltic offers so much in scenery, culture and history in a compact area and charming ports along the way. We love the mid-size ships and there was no hassles or queues getting off or on, the organisation was well done. We were blessed with wonderful weather everywhere which even Viking couldn’t have planned, only two showers in the whole two weeks, so all the warm clothing and raincoats were hardly needed. Read more about Vikings cruises, it’s all true and book through Global Journeys, they never let us down.
Viking Ocean cruising ... hard to fault 12 , QLD, Australia, Aug 2019
Thanks Jemma at Global Journeys for all the work to get us on this fabulous trip. The planning and documentation phases were perfect - as was the trip. We had travelled on a Viking river cruise before - so felt confident of our choice for Viking for an ocean cruise. Wow - the Viking ocean performance was absolutely fantastic in every aspect - from the ...read more pick up at the airport, including porters for our luggage to our cabins, to an outstanding itinerary, marvellous staff, food, entertainment and variety of shore excursions. The itinerary was amazing - taking in small and large ports with amazing scenery and activities onshore.

Iceland was amazing and provided stunning scenery. The trip to the Golden Triangle was well worthwhile as an optional extension trip. The days at sea between Iceland and the Faroes and Faroes to Norway were relaxing and filled with interesting activities. Faroe Islands also had much to offer and the stop at Torshavn and included tour gave a real insight into the life of this remote place. The 4 stops in Norway were also lovely and the trips to Geiranger and Flam were excellent with great shore excursions by coaches winding up amazingly steep mountains with spectacular views.

Everything about the trip and Viking was excellent - so much so that we've booked another Viking ocean cruise for next year. Viking has spoilt us for all other cruise lines and we won't be looking further when seeking a company for our future cruising holidays. Thanks Jemma and Viking for a memorable and wonderful time.
Excellent cruise on Viking Sky, a lovely ship 10 , NSW, Australia, Jun 2019
First time we have sailed with Viking and will do so again if the right itinerary comes along. There seemed to be plenty of space on the ship. Entertainment was excellent and food was good. Met some lovely people on the cruise.
Viking Ocean Adventures   22 , NSW, Australia, Apr 2018
Great cruise, one of the best we have done. Our booking, Viking Sky, the food, the ports, the crew, the cabin were all excellent.

Availability Click on prices below to view cabin upgrades and details

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. Prices and trip information are correct at the time at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Viking. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Viking. 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.

Similar Cruises

27 Day British Isles & Iceland Explorer (Viking)

27 Days Reykjavik London

Operated By: Viking

From 23,755
Save 1,047
27 Day Southeast Asia (Viking)

27 Days Hong Kong Bali

Operated By: Viking

From 20,290
Save 2,134
27 Day British Isles & Iceland Explorer (Viking)

27 Days London Reykjavik

Operated By: Viking

From 24,250
Save 2,065
27 Day Viking Homelands & Majestic Iceland (Viking)

27 Days Stockholm Reykjavik

Operated By: Viking

From 23,260
Save 2,065