Ancient Wonders - Athens to Aqaba via the Suez Canal: 13 days Athens (Piraeus) to Aqaba

Welcome to Greece and the historic capital, Athens. The birthplace of democracy and Western civilisation, Athens is renowned for its iconic ancient landmarks and rich culture. as well as its modern dynamism. From here, you’ll be transferred to your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht to embark on your enthralling voyage through the Mediterranean and Red seas.

Please book your flight to arrive into Athens prior to 01:00 PM.

Your first port of call is Syros, a charming island located amid the Cyclades group of islands in the sparkling Aegean Sea. Known for its rich history and vibrant culture, Syros is famed for its unique architectural style, which reflects its storied historical development. The contrast between the neoclassical mansions in Ermoúpolis and the Cycladic-style whitewashed houses in other parts of the island creates a distinctive aesthetic.

Stretching from Turkey’s southwest coast into the Aegean Sea, the stunning twin bays of Bodrum are home to one of the ‘Seven Wonders of the World,’ the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, built between 350 and 353 B.C. for the ruler, Mausolus. While Bodrum boasts a rich history, the city itself is a modern playground for Turkish and foreign visitors alike, presenting two contrasting sides in the east and west.

On the lovely Greek island of Rhodes, the Medieval City, or Old Town, is a must-see attraction, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Encircled within four-kilometre (two-mile) length of walls, the city’s medieval buildings, the Street of the Knights and the Palace of the Grand Master, give you a sense of being transported back to the Middle Ages. Known as the ‘Island of Knights,’ delightful Rhodes is also famed for its delicious local dishes; be sure to sample  melekouni (a traditional sweet) and pitaroudia (chickpea fritters).

Today, you’ll discover the Turkish resort city of Antalya. With its mesmerising landscapes of dense forests, mountains and sun-soaked beaches lapped by azure waters, Antalya makes the perfect paradise for nature lovers. History buffs will also be fascinated by the city’s rich history, revealed in its well-preserved Old Town, Kaleiçi. Here, the Roman-era harbour walls, Hellenistic gates and Ottoman-era houses pay homage to the city's storied past.

Welcome to the beautiful island of Cyprus and Limassol, a city known for its rich culture,  and welcoming with a fascinating blend of Greek, Turkish, and British influences. Just south of Limassol, the Akrotiri Salt Lake and wetlands are a haven for birdwatchers, especially in winter when flocks of flamingos congregate here.

Your next stop is Israel’s third-largest city, Haifa, a bustling port city that offers stunning seaside views and a vibrant urban life. A notable landmark is Mount Carmel, a coastal mountain range that creates an impressive city backdrop. Perched atop Mount Carmel, you'll find the Shrine of the Bab, a majestic golden-domed structure surrounded by the Baha'i Gardens, known as the Hanging Gardens of Haifa.

Relish this nautical adventure of a lifetime with a relaxing day at sea. Enjoy the luxurious comforts of your contemporary yacht: slide into the inviting infinity-style pool where the azure water blurs with the horizon, ascend to the Sky Deck to drink in the panoramic views and sunset, or simply unwind in the serene Observation Lounge.

Today, you’ll navigate through the historic Suez Canal before reaching Egypt and next port of call, Ain Sokhna. Constructed by Ferdinand de Lesseps and completed in 1869, this feat of engineering connects the Mediterranean Sea and Red Sea, carving through 62-kilometres (100-miles) of desert.

Positioned on the western shores of the Red Sea's Gulf of Suez, Ain Sokhna presents an elegant seaside town. Located two hours from the historic Egyptian capital, Cairo, Ain Sokhna is a base for visiting the Great Pyramids of Giza, one of the stupendous ‘Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.’

On the tip of Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula lies the glamorous resort city of Sharm el-Sheikh. Here, the desert meets the sea, creating an environment rich in biodiversity and a melting pot of cultures. Spend your day diving into the colourful world beneath the Red Sea’s shimmering surface, or take a step back in time, strolling through the city’s ancient mosques and bustling bazaars steeped in traditions.

A picturesque city located on the southern tip of Jordan overlooking the Red Sea, Aqaba is a history buffs’ delight for its rich history that dates back thousands of years. Archaeological sites such as the Aqaba Fort and  Ayla ruins showcase its ancient past. Aqaba also serves as a gateway to the ancient city of Petra and Wadi Rum, known as the ‘Valley of the Moon’ and a UNESCO-protected desert wilderness.

Your luxurious cruise and memorable cruise draws to a conclusion on the southern tip of Aqaba, Jordan, a picturesque city with a rich history dating back thousands of years. Aqaba is a history buff’s dream for its esteemed archaeological sites such as the Aqaba Fort and is also the gateway to the ancient city of Petra and incredible Wadi Rum, the ‘Valley of the Moon’ and a UNESCO-protected desert wilderness.

From the yacht, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your return flight home, or to continue your holiday.

Please book your flight to depart out of Aqaba after 11:00 AM.

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.