From Antiquity to Byzantium M/S Galileo
from $3000
***Valentine's Day Offers***
for bookings made from 07-21 FEBRUARY, 2024
2 for 1 on double occupancy OR No single supplementDepartures: 22, 29 March; 05*, 12 April 2024SAVE 25% on double occupancy OR No single supplementDepartures: 01, 08 November 2024
 
Offers are non-retroactive and cannot be combined with any other offer.
Subject to availability. Conditions apply.
(published prices exclude offer discounts)

***Early Booking Discount Offer - 2024 Departures***

10% Early Booking Discount for bookings made until 29 FEBRUARY, 2024
for the October and November 2024 sailings
Conditions apply. Cannot be combined with any other offer
(published prices exclude early booking discount)

From Antiquity to Byzantium Cruise on the M/S Galileo
Friday Departures
7 Nights/8 Days from Athens to Athens
 
2024 Departure Dates on M/S Galileo
Low Season Departures
March: 22November: 01, 08
 
High Season Departures
March: 29April: 05, 12October: 25
 
 

IntroductionA voyage through history dedicated to the Golden Age of Greek civilization and beyond, this cruise comes complete with a guest lecturer, Eugenia Alexiou. Eugenia has a Master’s degree in Byzantine Art, is an expert historian and, as a graduate of the Athens’ Tour Guide Academy, is the perfect tutor through all the classical sites and sights we visit. This journey to off-the-beaten track locales in the Peloponnese peninsula is a masterclass on the journey through classical antiquity and the Roman conquest, ending with the transition to the Christian empire of Byzantium.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Port Taxes of approximately EUR320 are not included in the above prices

Day 1 – Friday: Athens – Palaia Epidaurus

Embarkation at Marina Zea in Athens between 2-3 pm. Have a welcome drink while you meet your crew and fellow passengers. Sail for Palia (old) Epidaurus. Evening arrival and dinner on board. Overnight in port.

Day 2 – Saturday: Ancient Epidaurus (Optional Excursion) - Nafplion

Leave the ship early in the morning to drive to Ancient Epidaurus for an optional excursion. Epidaurus was known throughout the Greek world as a healing sanctuary. The sanctuary was looted by the Roman general Sulla, by pirates, and later by Goths in 395 AD and very little remains of it today. The prosperity brought by the Asclepieion enabled the residents of Epidaurus to construct civic monuments, including a huge theater (approximately 300 B.C.) renowned for its symmetry and beauty. Lunch on ship and afternoon sailing to Nafplion. Overnight in port.

Day 3 – Sunday: Nafplion - Mycenae (Optional Excursion) - Monemvasia

After a short walking tour of Nafplion, drive through the colorful city and the beautiful countryside of Argolis towards Mycenae for an optional excursion. The importance of the city, which Homer calls “rich in gold”, begins in 1650 B.C and ceases around 1100 B.C with the fall of the civilization to which it gives name. Visit the remains of the glorious ancient city including the Lion’s Gate, the Palace, the so-called Agamemnon Tomb and the museum. Lunch on ship and afternoon sailing to Monemvasia. Overnight at sea.

Day 4 – Monday: Gythion (Optional Excursion)

Early morning arrival in Gythion. Optional excursion to Mani peninsula and Cape Tenaro, plus the spectacular Dirou Caves with their stalactites and stalagmites. Ancient Gythion was inhabited during prehistoric times and later the Spartans enlarged the port and used it as their naval base. Leaving Gythion cross the scenic Mani Peninsula to reach Diros and visit the spectacular caves, discovered around the 60s, which are perhaps among the most important natural sites of Greece. After visiting the cave, drive to nearby Areopolis for a short stroll through the town. Mani, which is at the tip of the Peloponnese, is a distinctive area unlike any other area in Greece. A desolate region of underground lakes and rivers, windswept landscapes and towers that is strangely beautiful. Overnight at sea.

Day 5 – Tuesday: Pylos (Optional Excursion)

Morning arrival in Pylos, a picture-perfect seaside town on the southwest Peloponnese. Sitting on the backside of stately Navarino Bay, Pylos was the site of several famous naval battles, one of which occurred in 1827 and led to the independence of Greece in 1829. Today's optional excursion continues up the road to Nestor’s Palace. The remains of the prehistoric Palace occupy a scenic hilltop setting north of Pylos. The palace at Pylos belonged to Nestor and was discovered in 1939 by the American archaeologist Carl Blegen. Highlights include the well-preserved royal apartments and a bathtub that archaeologists have speculated belonged to the old king himself. The palace, with its central courtyard, was originally two stories high and richly decorated with frescoes. Following a visit to the remains of the palace, make the short trip to the town of Hora where a superb archaeological museum holds thousands of artifacts recovered from the site. Overnight at sea.

Day 6 – Wednesday: Katakolon - Olympia (Optional Excursion) - Itea

Early morning arrival in the port of Katakolon. Disembark around 7:00 a.m. and an optional excursion takes you by bus to Olympia, one of the most famous and important sites in the ancient world. Olympia is revered as the birthplace of the Olympic Games and the greatest Pan-Hellenic sanctuary for the worship of Zeus. From 1875 onward excavation work revealed the fantastic treasures from antiquity that sit today in the marvelous archaeological museum. The most thrilling site at Olympia is the stadium, which looks much like it did more than 2,000 years ago. Also explore the Temple of Hera, the magnificent temple of Zeus the Philippeion. Later visit the Olympia Museum, one of the most beautiful museums in the world. Following lunch in the town of Olympia, visit the museum of the History of the Olympic Games of Antiquity. Unlike the main archaeological museum, this building houses statuary and artifacts specifically related to the ancient Olympic Games. Time at leisure and travel overland to Patra. Re-board the ship and depart for Itea in the Gulf of Corinth. Overnight in port.

Day 7 – Thursday: Itea - Delphi (Optional Excursion) - Corinth Canal - Marina Zea

Morning optional excursion to Delphi, one of the most revered sites from the ancient world. Disembark the ship early this morning and proceed to the ruins complex. Unlike other archaeological sites in Greece, Delphi is built on the side of a mountain. Stay awed as much for the stunning natural beauty that surrounds the ruins as for the ancient buildings themselves. In its prime, Delphi was revered for its wealth and reputation, attributes which grew from the site’s location as hosting the most important oracle in the classical world. The oracle had the ability to prophecy the future and give advice. Visitors from across the Greek world traveled here to consult with the oracle and responded by offering thanks to Apollo in the form of treasure. There will be a half day to walk around the ruins complex and visit the adjoining museum. Return to the ship and cross the Corinth Canal. Later in the evening Captain’s Farewell Dinner and sail to Marina Zea. Overnight in Marina Zea.

Day 8 – Friday: Marina Zea, Athens

Disembarkation at 9 am after breakfast.

TOUR INCLUSIONS:

  • Accommodation in double or twin cabins with private SH/WC & air conditioning.
  • Full-board: Buffet breakfast and two meals daily including a Welcome Cocktail, a Greek Night Evening and Captain’s Dinner.
  • Regular (filter) coffee, tea and drinking water free all day.
  • Use of fishing and snorkelling equipment (subject to availability).
  • English-Speaking Cruise Escort.

TOUR EXCLUSIONS:

  • International air fares
  • Beverages (except those mentioned above)
  • Shore excursions on the islands or other land arrangements
  • Crew tips
  • Wi-Fi (available at a charge)
  • Personal expenses
  • Port Taxes and fuel surcharges
  • Porterage
  • Departure taxes
  • Hotel charges for minibar or any extra charges
  • Visas (unless specified)
  • Any other services not clearly mentioned in the inclusions above

M/S GALILEO - MOTOR SAILER

The 48 meter M/S Galileo is a classic steel hull motor sailer, with spacious and well appointed interiors renovated in 2020.

GENERAL INFORMATION:

  • Length: 48m (157 ft)
  • Launched: 1992 | Rebuilt: 2007 | Renovated: 2020
  • Cabins: 24
  • Capacity: 49 passengers
  • Crew: 16-18

The M/S Galileo, built with the most stringent safety regulations, was launched in 1992 and was fully rebuilt in 2007. The latest renovation works of the M/S Galileo took place in summer 2020 and included significant upgrading of the indoor & outdoor public areas.The elegant Galileo has operated cruises in the Mediterranean Sea and the Indian Ocean. The Galileo is always sailing under motors. Sails are occasionally used when weather and route allow.  

CABIN SPECIFICATIONS:The Galileo’s 24 outside guest cabins are located on Upper and Lower Decks, all with large portholes. Elegantly decorated, they have either twin or double sized beds and bathrooms with showers en suite. Category B cabins have flexible bedding arrangement. All cabins are comfortably arranged and beautifully furnished with wooden furniture and light fabrics. Cabins have individually controlled A/C, offer storage space, and are fitted with flat-screen TVs, mini fridge, telephone (for internal use), hairdryers, central music, public address system and safe boxes.

Category C Lower Deck

1 Double or 2 Lower BedsThe Category C cabins are located on the Lower Deck and have portholes. The cabins are air-conditioned and fitted with flat-screen TVs, mini fridge, central music, internal telephone, safe deposit boxes, hair dryer & en suite bathroom with shower.

Category B Lower Deck

Flexible Bedding ConfigurationThe Category B cabins are located on the Lower Deck and have portholes. The cabins are air-conditioned and fitted with flat-screen TV, mini fridge, central music, internal telephone, safe deposit boxes, hair dryer & en suite bathroom with shower.

Category A Upper Deck

1 Double or 2 Lower Beds
(Triple Cabins Available)The Category A cabins are located on the Upper Deck and have large Portholes. The cabins are air-conditioned and fitted with flat-screen TV, mini fridge, central music, internal telephone, safe deposit boxes, hair dryer & en suite bathroom with shower.

Service on board is provided by your Captain, the Cruise Coordinator and your experienced Marine and Hotel crew members. Service will be attentive or unobtrusive according to your requirements and priority is always given to the safety and comfort of passengers. Organised excursions are available for most ports of call and can be pre-booked or reserved 24 hours in advance.

LIFE ON BOARDDuring the day, life on board centers around the indoor lounge area and dining room, as well as the outdoor areas at the Main, Upper and Sun decks. The Captain will drop anchor at secluded bays and beautiful uninhabited islands where, weather permitting, guests can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, kayaking.MAIN DECK LOUNGE & DINING ROOMRenovated in 2020, the main deck lounge area with an American bar leads into a warm and elegant dining room finished with wood and carpet flooring, and beautiful soft fabrics. The spacious dining room seats all passengers in a single, unassigned seating and allows for spectacular views around you, while dining in an elegant environment. Food is served at the table or displayed on the state of the art hot & cold buffet which also includes a “a la minute cooking” section.UPPER DECK OUTDOOR LOUNGE AREAGuests on Galileo very much enjoy the shaded outdoor area with an outdoor bar where they can relax enjoying the most breathtaking sea views. SUN DECKThe vessel features a Sun Deck with a sitting area to relax and enjoy unobstructed views and with ample Sun loungers’ space to sunbathe under the Mediterranean sun. In the evening you can watch the sunset, enjoy a drink overlooking the stars. Guests on the Galileo enjoy the shaded outdoor Bar area at the Upper Deck as well as the Sun Deck.

Enquire About This Itinerary

Trip prices and dates are correct at the time of the website going live, however all offers are subject to reconfirmation at the time of booking. All featured tour itineraries and offers maybe subject to change due to seasonal variations without notice, or due to local conditions or other conditions. Please confirm all details at time of booking. Travel insurance is mandatory for all Innovative Travel bookings. All passports must be valid for 6 months prior to your return to your home country. Visas are the responsibility of the traveller. Special VIP meet and assist offers are valid for New Zealand passport holders, for other nationalities please check at the time of booking. For full terms and conditions, please refer to our Booking Conditions page.

Cat C - Lower Deck - Twin or Dble beds / 22 March 2024 / Per Person Twin Share
$3000
  • Cat C - Lower Deck - Twin or Dble beds
  • 22 March 2024
  • Per Person Twin Share
Cat C - Lower Deck - Twin or Dble beds / 22 March 2024 / Single Room
$4500
  • Cat C - Lower Deck - Twin or Dble beds
  • 22 March 2024
  • Single Room
Cat C - Lower Deck - Twin or Dble beds / 29 March 2024 - 25 October 2024 / Per Person Twin Share
$4000
  • Cat C - Lower Deck - Twin or Dble beds
  • 29 March 2024 - 25 October 2024
  • Per Person Twin Share
Cat C - Lower Deck - Twin or Dble beds / 29 March 2024 - 25 October 2024 / Single Room
$6000
  • Cat C - Lower Deck - Twin or Dble beds
  • 29 March 2024 - 25 October 2024
  • Single Room
Cat C - Lower Deck - Twin or Dble beds / 01 November - 30 November 2024 / Per Person Twin Share
$3000
  • Cat C - Lower Deck - Twin or Dble beds
  • 01 November - 30 November 2024
  • Per Person Twin Share
Cat C - Lower Deck - Twin or Dble beds / 01 November - 30 November 2024 / Single Room
$4500
  • Cat C - Lower Deck - Twin or Dble beds
  • 01 November - 30 November 2024
  • Single Room
Cat B - Lower Deck - Flexible beds / 22 March 2024 / Per Person Twin Share
$4000
  • Cat B - Lower Deck - Flexible beds
  • 22 March 2024
  • Per Person Twin Share
Cat B - Lower Deck - Flexible beds / 22 March 2024 / Single Room
$6000
  • Cat B - Lower Deck - Flexible beds
  • 22 March 2024
  • Single Room
Cat B - Lower Deck - Flexible beds / 29 March 2024 - 25 October 2024 / Per Person Twin Share
$5180
  • Cat B - Lower Deck - Flexible beds
  • 29 March 2024 - 25 October 2024
  • Per Person Twin Share
Cat B - Lower Deck - Flexible beds / 29 March 2024 - 25 October 2024 / Single Room
$7770
  • Cat B - Lower Deck - Flexible beds
  • 29 March 2024 - 25 October 2024
  • Single Room
Cat B - Lower Deck - Flexible beds / 01 November - 30 November 2024 / Per Person Twin Share
$4000
  • Cat B - Lower Deck - Flexible beds
  • 01 November - 30 November 2024
  • Per Person Twin Share
Cat B - Lower Deck - Flexible beds / 01 November - 30 November 2024 / Single Room
$6000
  • Cat B - Lower Deck - Flexible beds
  • 01 November - 30 November 2024
  • Single Room
Cat A - Upper Deck - Twin or Dble beds / 22 March 2024 / Per Person Twin Share
$5180
  • Cat A - Upper Deck - Twin or Dble beds
  • 22 March 2024
  • Per Person Twin Share
Cat A - Upper Deck - Twin or Dble beds / 22 March 2024 / Single Room
$7770
  • Cat A - Upper Deck - Twin or Dble beds
  • 22 March 2024
  • Single Room
Cat A - Upper Deck - Twin or Dble beds / 22 March 2024 / Triple Cabin-Cat A (price for 3people)
$13985
  • Cat A - Upper Deck - Twin or Dble beds
  • 22 March 2024
  • Triple Cabin-Cat A (price for 3people)
Cat A - Upper Deck - Twin or Dble beds / 29 March 2024 - 25 October 2024 / Per Person Twin Share
$6090
  • Cat A - Upper Deck - Twin or Dble beds
  • 29 March 2024 - 25 October 2024
  • Per Person Twin Share
Cat A - Upper Deck - Twin or Dble beds / 29 March 2024 - 25 October 2024 / Single Room
$9135
  • Cat A - Upper Deck - Twin or Dble beds
  • 29 March 2024 - 25 October 2024
  • Single Room
Cat A - Upper Deck - Twin or Dble beds / 29 March 2024 - 25 October 2024 / Triple Cabin-Cat A (price for 3people)
$16440
  • Cat A - Upper Deck - Twin or Dble beds
  • 29 March 2024 - 25 October 2024
  • Triple Cabin-Cat A (price for 3people)
Cat A - Upper Deck - Twin or Dble beds / 01 November - 30 November 2024 / Per Person Twin Share
$5180
  • Cat A - Upper Deck - Twin or Dble beds
  • 01 November - 30 November 2024
  • Per Person Twin Share
Cat A - Upper Deck - Twin or Dble beds / 01 November - 30 November 2024 / Single Room
$7770
  • Cat A - Upper Deck - Twin or Dble beds
  • 01 November - 30 November 2024
  • Single Room
Cat A - Upper Deck - Twin or Dble beds / 01 November - 30 November 2024 / Triple Cabin-Cat A (price for 3people)
$13985
  • Cat A - Upper Deck - Twin or Dble beds
  • 01 November - 30 November 2024
  • Triple Cabin-Cat A (price for 3people)
Class
  • Cat C - Lower Deck - Twin or Dble beds
  • Cat B - Lower Deck - Flexible beds
  • Cat A - Upper Deck - Twin or Dble beds
Travel Date
  • 22 March 2024
  • 29 March 2024 - 25 October 2024
  • 01 November - 30 November 2024
Room Type
  • Per Person Twin Share
  • Single Room
  • Triple Cabin-Cat A (price for 3people)

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