Islands & Sanctuaries of the Gods: An Exploration of Greece & the Greek Islands

Spring provides the perfect setting for a cruise to the fabled Greek islands, when wildflowers blanket the craggy hillsides and enchanting ancient sites. Join alumni and friends aboard the 34 passenger Callisto from May 21 - May 30, 2012 as we sail through the Ionian and Aegean seas.

With over 6,000 wildflower species (about 1,000 of which are found nowhere else), Greece’s flora is the richest in Europe. Exploring the countryside and venerable ancient sanctuaries at this time of the year is an unforgettable experience.  Our home for this voyage is Callisto, which accommodates only 34 guests. Spring is indeed a miraculous time to discover the ancient and contemporary wonders of the Ionian and Aegean Seas. We hope you join us.

Dates & Prices

Trip Dates: May 21 - 30, 2012
Prices:  from $3995 per person based upon double occupancy

Trip Summary:

Monday, May 21, 2012 - FLY FROM USA

Tuesday, May 22 - ATHENS | EMBARK | CORINTH CANAL, Greece
Arrive in Athens and transfer to Sea Yacht Marina to board the Callisto. Sailing in the afternoon, Callisto will navigate the Corinth Canal, a narrow and scenic waterway. (D)

Wednesday, May 23 - DELPHI
From the small port of Itea drive through spectacular scenery to Delphi. Famed in antiquity for its oracle, Delphi is one of the most impressive ancient sites of Greece. (B, L, D)

Thursday, May 24 - OLYMPIA
Dock in the port of Katakolon and drive to nearby Olympia. Situated in a beautiful pastoral setting, Olympia, a sacred precinct, was home to the game held every four years from 776 b.c. to 393 a.d. (B, L, D)

Friday, May 25 - ARCADIA
Land at the picturesque and seldom visited port town of Kyparyssia. Explore fabled Arcadia, including the celebrated 5th-century b.c. Temple of Apollo at Bassae, built on the summit of a rocky terrace. (B, L, D)

Saturday, May 26 - KYTHIRA
According to legend, the lovely island of Kythira was the home of Aphrodite, the goddess of love. One of the most unspoiled of all the Greek islands, Kythira is noted for its beautiful landscapes and bucolic villages. (B, L, D)

Sunday, May 27 - RETHYMNON, CRETE
The island of Crete was home to the Minoan Civilization, Europe’s first advanced civilization. From picturesque Rethymnon, explore this amazing island, including its glorious countryside and the awe-inspiring Minoan Palace of Knossos. (B, L, D)

Monday, May 28 - SANTORINI
No island in the Mediterranean compares to Santorini, which rises sharply from the sea into formidable palisades, on top of which are built its white-washed towns. Spend time exploring this utterly unique island and enjoy lunch at a local taverna, sampling Santorini’s specialties. (B, L, D)

Tuesday, May 29 - SIFNOS
One of the most beautiful of the Cycladic islands, Sifnos was known in antiquity for its wealth derived from its gold and silver mines. Today Sifnos is prized for its charming and characteristic villages with their typical whitewashed architecture. (B, L, D)

Wednesday, May 30 - PIRAEUS | DISEMBARK | ATHENS | FLY TO USA (B)
Disembark in Piraeus and transfer to the airport in Athens for return flights to the U.S.

Please call us toll-free at (866) 325-8664 or email us at travelstudy@columbia.edu for more details.