1. Overview of Celestyal Cruises
Celestyal Cruises focuses on maximizing its time in port to allow guests to see some of the best parts of Greece and Turkey on the Aegean Sea. Its ships often stay late into the evening so that those who want to dine ashore can do so. Moreover, the ships sometimes visit two islands in one day, giving their passengers exposure to more of these amazing islands.
2. Cruise Itineraries and Destinations
The cruise line primarily sails 3, 4, and 7-day cruises in the Aegean, but guests can combine the 3- and 4-day trips to create a longer voyage. Celestyal’s ships visit many of the Aegean destinations of other cruise lines like Mykonos, Santorini, and Istanbul. However, they also stopover at quieter islands and ports not yet discovered by the masses (e.g., Chios and Milos).
Santorini – Greece’s Most Spectacular Island
Santorini (also known as Thira) is one of Greece’s most popular islands and is undoubtedly the most spectacular. The world’s largest volcanic eruption (over 3000 years ago) transformed the island from one with a volcano in the middle to several smaller islands surrounding a vast, deep caldera.
Cruise ships love Santorini, and it’s featured on most of Celestyal Cruises’ itineraries. Cruise passengers enjoy strolling through the scenic streets of Oia or the capital of Fira, stopping often to relish the views or to shop for jewelry, souvenirs, or refreshments.
Furthermore, Santorini boasts beaches in various colors and charming towns like Pyrgos in the interior. Those who appreciate ancient history should plan to visit the Akrotiri archaeological site, while wine lovers should not miss the Santos Winery for a tasting and breathtaking views.
Mykonos – Shopping, Parties, and Gateway to Delos
Mykonos is dry and mainly flat—not necessarily Greece’s most scenic island. However, it is one of the country’s most popular due to its outstanding beaches, diverse shops, and vibrant dining and nightlife options.
Often, Celestyal cruise ships will remain docked until about midnight at Mykonos, allowing guests to experience a taste of the famous nightlife. The daylight hours in Mykonos are best spent at the beaches, shopping, wandering along the waterfront, or exploring Mykonos town. It’s quite charming, and many visitors are drawn to Little Venice in the evening near the windmills to enjoy the sunset.
Mykonos is the closest island to Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage site, making it essential for anyone interested in mythology or archaeology. Ancient Greeks believed Apollo was born on Delos, rendering the island sacred. Cruise travelers can either join a ship’s tour to Delos or take a tour boat from the pier in Mykonos.
Patmos – Where St. John Wrote the Biblical Book of Revelation
Patmos is renowned among Christian pilgrims who visit the Mediterranean to explore sites made famous in the Bible. St. John the Disciple was exiled from Ephesus to Patmos for 18 months in 95 AD, using this time to compose the last book of the New Testament, Revelation. He had not intended to write it; however, God revealed it to him while he was meditating in a cave on Patmos.
Due to this pivotal link to Christianity, it is not surprising that Patmos features numerous churches and monasteries. Its most significant landmark is the Monastery of St. John, established in the 11th century AD. Most shore excursions typically include a visit to this monastery and to the Cave of the Apocalypse where St. John received his revelations.
Visitors who have previously explored Patmos or seek alternative activities can enjoy one of the island’s many beautiful beaches or explore the port town of Skala or its hilltop capital, Chora (or Hora).
Crete – Greece’s Largest Island and Home of the Minotaur
The Celestyal Odyssey visits Heraklion (also spelled Iraklion) on Crete when sailing the Aegean from Athens. Most guests typically visit the nearby archaeological site of the Minoan Palace of Knossos, where King Minos allegedly housed the famous Minotaur.
While much has been written about Sir Arthur Evans, the primary archaeologist of Knossos, and his reconstruction of parts of the site, many visitors have mixed feelings about this. Still, it provides insight into how some sections of the palace “might” have appeared.
The majority of artifacts unearthed at the Palace of Knossos are exhibited at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, which has undergone significant renovations and is certainly worth a visit.
Kos – Home of Wine, Honey, Zia, a Few Beaches, and Hippocrates
Kos is one of the more fertile islands in the southeastern Aegean. Its most famous resident was Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, who was reportedly born on Kos around 460 BC and died there around 377 BC. While there are limited sights on Kos related to Hippocrates, some tours take visitors to the Hippocrates Plane Tree, known as the place where he taught his students.
Recently, I participated in a “Taste of Tradition with Zia” tour from the Celestyal Crystal cruise ship in Kos. This enjoyable tour highlighted the scenic beauty of Kos, including its beaches, while also offering a taste of local wines and honey. It concluded with time to shop, explore, and enjoy the breathtaking views from the mountain town of Zia.
Ios – Deserts, Mountains, Beaches, and Quintessential Greek Villages
Ios is one of Greece’s driest islands, characterized by its rocky and barren landscape. Despite this, it has gained a reputation as one of the country’s best party islands. Visitors can enjoy gorgeous beaches, picturesque Greek villages, and lively nightlife. Additionally, Ios features the archaeological site of Skarkos, dating back to 2800 BC, which is worth a visit.
Cruise ships dock in Hora (also spelled Chora), which boasts scenic narrow streets, delightful buildings, and numerous churches. Those who appreciate panoramic views can hike up to the top of the hill overlooking the town.
The scenic drive from Hora to the beaches on the southern edge of the island is remarkable, leading across the mountains. Maganari Beach is among Ios’ most popular, featuring the Venus Restaurant and Bar, which is located right on the beach.
Syros – One of Greece’s Less-Touristy Islands
Unlike many Greek islands that primarily rely on tourism, Syros is probably the most populated island not dependent on this sector. Ermoupolis, the largest city on Syros, serves as the administrative capital of the Cyclades and features shipbuilding and repair facilities as well as textile factories. This commercial nature gives the island a unique ambiance.
Cruise ships dock at Ermoupolis, where passengers can explore the city either on foot or through an organized tour. The island boasts beautiful marble streets and Neo-Classical architecture in its buildings.
The Celestyal Crystal stays docked until nearly midnight in Syros, providing guests with the chance to dine ashore or explore more of the island. Some guests opted to take a taxi to the quaint village of Kini for a memorable beachfront seafood dinner and spectacular sunset at the Allou Yialou restaurant.
Symi – Mansions and Sponges
Symi (also spelled Simi) is yet another dry yet stunning island, located just about 6 miles from Turkey in the eastern Aegean Sea. It is popular with small sailboats; however, a few cruise ships also dock and anchor in the harbor of Symi town.
Exploring the town is definitely worthwhile; yet, beach enthusiasts might consider taking a small boat to St. George’s Bay, famed as one of Greece’s finest beaches in the Aegean, featuring powdery white sand and crystal clear water.
Rhodes – Sunshine and History
Rhodes has historically been among the most frequented islands by visitors to Greece. Situated far on the eastern edge of the Aegean near Turkey, tourists love the over 300 days of sunshine, charming beaches, and fascinating historical sites linked to the Knights of St. John and more ancient civilizations.
The Old Town of Rhodes is one of the largest inhabited medieval towns in Europe and is recognized as a World Heritage Site. Even today, its old fortifications remain impressive. Unfortunately, the revered statue of the Colossus of Rhodes, once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, was destroyed in an earthquake over 2200 years ago and no longer stands guard over the harbor.
Many cruise visitors take a tour on Rhodes to the ancient city of Lindos and its fortress atop the acropolis overlooking this picturesque town.
Samos – Home of Pythagoras
Like Symi and Rhodes, Samos lies close to Turkey and is significantly greener (and larger) than Symi, offering a more mountainous terrain. The scenery features numerous pine and olive trees. Many tourists pass through Samos while traveling between Turkey and other Greek islands; however, some choose to stay.
Samos possesses delightful beaches and charming villages along its coastline and in the mountains. Visitors flock to Samos for its ties to ancient history; notably, it is the birthplace of the famous mathematician Pythagoras. Its other attractions include a notable Temple to Hera, the Goddess of Marriage, and a fascinating archaeological museum.
Istanbul – Great City Links Europe and Asia
Istanbul is a highlight of any eastern Mediterranean cruise. Its remarkable history spans centuries, linking continents and religions. Although visitors can easily spend a week in Istanbul, many of the most well-known sites can be viewed (though quickly) in a day, as they are located in proximity to one another.
Kusadasi – Gateway to Ephesus
Kusadasi is among the most popular ports of call in Turkey, allowing cruise ships of all sizes to dock directly rather than tendering. Conveniently, the town is situated near the ancient city of Ephesus, one of Turkey’s most visited archaeological sites.
Most first-time visitors to Kusadasi typically embark on a half-day tour of Ephesus and use the remaining time in port to shop and explore Kusadasi. Those who have been before may similarly return to Ephesus, as the site is so extensive that there’s something new to discover each time.
Cesme – Ancient Historical Sites or a Day at the Beach?
One of the challenges with cruise travel is that you often lack sufficient time in port to see or do everything that piques your interest. Consequently, this means that you will certainly have to return!
Cesme, Turkey, is near Izmir, one of Turkey’s most captivating cities. Celestyal Cruises features shore excursions, but I opted for a “day off” from touring and visited the Sole Mare Beach Club, where I relaxed, dined, swam, and enjoyed some wine. After immersing myself in the history and culture of Greece and Turkey, everyone deserves a day to simply unwind.
