Athens to Venice Cruise

Athens (Piraeus), Greece

The thriving metropolis of Athens and its treasure trove of antiquities will impress even the most well-traveled. There’s truly no place like it on earth. Even as the reality of the modern city took hold, with its high-rise apartments, crowded sidewalks and bustling traffic, the beauty of the Acropolis, the outstanding museums, charming cafés, sidewalk markets and startling views come together in a cultural mosaic for all to enjoy. Summertime brings out a vibrant nightlife scene, replete with plenty of gay and gay-friendly options to enjoy. Watch for details a few weeks prior to sailing.

We will sail from the port of Piraeus, located just a few minutes from Athens. Piraeus has been the port for Athens since 482 BC, boasting a busy harbor filled with ferries and cruise ships making their way to the Greek Islands and other Mediterranean cities.

Kusadasi, Turkey

Once the capital of the Roman province of Asia Minor, this coastal town is now an archeologist’s dream with easy access to the ancient city of Ephessus. This former Greek banking and trading center is rich with historic sites, including the Great Theater, the Temple of Hadrian, and the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Spend some time shopping in the bazaar or the many friendly shops lining the port.

Istanbul, Turkey

In addition to being the cultural and financial center of Turkey, Istanbul is the only city in the world that spans two continents. There are more exciting restaurants, bars, galleries and clubs around town than exquisite Ottoman mosques, although Istanbul's history and exotic culture are present everywhere. Spend a day strolling through the Grand Bazaar, explore the famous Blue Mosque, or wander through the majestic Topkapi Palace, with its gardens, libraries and 400-room harem. 

At night you’ll be immersed in one of the worlds’ most exciting scenes, with something for everyone including friendly gay bars & nightclubs. Our overnight stay lets you explore it all! In depth like a local.

Istanbul, Turkey

Straddling Asia and Europe across the sprawling Bosphorus Strait, Istanbul is a major city in Turkey which is world-famous for its rich history and culture, stunning scenery, magnificent structures, and a plethora of aspects.

Mykonos, Greece

Blue domed churches dot the landscape and flowers cascade down white walled houses.  But who are we kidding, you’re here for the famous beaches and vibrant nightlife that make Mykonos one of the hottest gay destinations in the world.  We’re staying until 4 AM, so enjoy!

Santorini, Greece

"Thira, the Wild Island" and "Kalliste, the Fairest One" - all terms of endearment for this seductive, volcanic Greek island. Extraordinary for its black sand beaches and sheer limestone cliffs, Santorini also showcases remnants of the Phoenician, Spartan and Minoan cultures, which fell under the island's spell - an unvarying, irresistible lure that continues to this day. Fira, the picturesque, pedestrian-only capital, is reached from the seaport via a short cable car ride that offers thrilling views as you ascend.

Don’t miss the legendary sunset experience in Oia on the north end of the island. Our late stay allows you plenty of time to join the locals (and tourists) and still get back to Vista in comfort.

Heraklion , Greece

Heraklion is the major city and capital of the largest Greek island of Crete. Its Archaeological Museum holds the remains of the 3000-year old Minoan civilization, which grew around the nearby legendary palace of Knossos (of Minotaur fame), as well as Byzantine churches and a well-preserved Venetian wall and fortress from the 15th century.

Awesome Day at Sea

After a week of exploring, enjoy a relaxing day in the sun with friends, old and new. Visit the Aquamar Spa to recharge your body, mind and spirit.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

A perfectly preserved medieval town, Dubrovnik has been one of the crown jewels of the Dalmatian Coast for over 1300 years. The city’s marble-paved squares, monasteries and fountains are just a few of the antiquities still standing from a thousand years ago, helping it earn its place on UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites. Easy to explore on foot, you’ll be transported to the breathtaking medieval world of Stari Grad just beyond the Old Town’s stone walls.

And of course, there’s the Game of Thrones setting that everyone will recognize!

Split, Croatia

Dubrovnik may get all the attention, but laid-back Split showcases the charm of Croatia without the crowds! Croatia’s second-largest city offers a treasure trove of wonders on it’s marble-lined streets. Sample excellent Dalmatian food, visit the ornate Diocletian’s Palace, or travel far-out to the ancient wonders of Salona. Split has something for everyone and we’ll be docked so close you can walk right in!

Venice (Trieste), Italy

Comprised of over 120 islands in the Adriatic Sea, Venice is one of the world’s most unusual cities. Here, canals replace streets, and residents use water taxis to navigate their city. The bustling square around St. Mark’s Basilica, is certainly one of the world’s best known examples of Byzantine architecture, a still-impressive relic from the days when Venice was the world’s leading maritime power. Staying in Venice allows you time to explore, enjoy, and get lost a bit in the world’s most fascinating city.

Due to new port restrictions on Venice, we’ll dock in nearby Trieste, located just under an hour from Venice. While most of you will head right to Venice, don’t miss out on one of the world’s most under-rated cities. Trieste’s intriguing old-town sights harken back to the days of the Habsburgs, filled with stunning architecture surrounded by the clear blue Adriatic.

Transfers will be available from Trieste to Venice at an extra cost.