Greek & Turkish Treasures on Seabourn Encore

After enjoying your included airport lounge access and flight out to Istanbul, an included transfer will see you aboard the small-ship luxury of Seabourn Encore. You’ll be treated to the first of your all-inclusive fine dining, with a full spread of al-fresco favourites, grilled delicacies and sushi delights to choose from. It’s all washed down with something from the convivial open bars before you retire to your ocean-verandah suite, perhaps for a night cap from the complimentary minibar that’s stocked to your preference by your personal attendant. Alternatively, speak to one of our specialists about arranging a pre-cruise stay in Turkey’s city great, where gilded palaces, world-wonder mosques and colourful bazaars mark the meeting of Europe and the Orient.

Stay: Seabourn Encore (Deluxe)

You’ll make land in the volcanic island of Nisos Limnos with the small beach town of Myrina, which is beautifully capped by 13th-century Venetian castle ruins. And, its golden-sands relaxation is perhaps best enjoyed with a cruise along the coast on a traditional caique wooden boat, reaching your very own private beach. Otherwise, the islands’ oenology is showcased with a local wine tasting and its history in the archaeological museum. After all, the Greek god of fire and Jason’s Argonauts are intertwined in its storied past.

Stay: Seabourn Encore (Deluxe)

Swapping back to Turkey, you’ll be welcomed by the seaside town of Cesme, with its inviting promenade and string of idyllic beaches. However, it’s the grand 16th-century castle that might linger longest in your memory, its imposing fortifications earmarked for World Heritage status. Otherwise, try your hand at windsurfing or strike out for the Bohemian cobbled streets of nearby Alacati – a Greek village of chic renown. Further afield, UNESCO-listed Ephesus represents Turkey’s most impressive and best-preserved ancient city, with its great temples, libraries and theatres.

Stay: Seabourn Encore (Deluxe)

With its glittering marina, whitewash idyll and boutique café scene fronted by superb beaches and capped by its truly impressive 15th-century castle, Bodrum has been long lauded as Turkey’s finest seaside offering. Its rich history is further remembered in the ancient Mausoleum of Halicarnassus and the Bronze Age relics of the superb Sunken Boat Museum. Alternatively, enjoy a guided tasting of local Turkish delicacies or wines, while

an ultra-scenic drive along the coast will bring you among historic windmills, fishing villages and amphitheatres. There are also coastal cruises on a traditional gulet yacht to secluded bays, while further afield the acropolis-fortress city of ancient Iasos is a true Byzantine wonder. 

Stay: Seabourn Encore (Deluxe)

Although the island of Symi is beautifully ringed by cragged coves and sandy beaches, its harbour is just as impressive, with a patchwork of colourful neoclassical houses capped by churches, chapels and the great bell tower of its centuries-old monastery. Perhaps enjoy a guided tour through its historic cobbled streets or simply find a beach to call your own.

Stay: Seabourn Encore (Deluxe)

Rightfully so, Santorini has become something of an icon of world travel. Approaching by sea, you’ll essentially be sailing into a sunken volcano, capped by the serene whitewash of its houses that spill vertiginously down the clifftops. You’ll also have the opportunity to explore its serene beaches, sea-view hiking trails and its ancient relics, with the Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine ruins of Thira dating back to the 9th century – ranging from mosaicked houses to temples and theatres. The Bronze Age prehistory of Akrotiri is equally intriguing. However, you might just want to enjoy the chic side of it all, with everything from catamaran cruises to yoga and wine tasting combos.

Stay: Seabourn Encore (Deluxe)

Your last Greek island hop will bring you off the beaten track to the island of Syros. You’ll be welcomed here by the grandest of the Cycladic towns – Ermoupolis. Head to its palm-dotted Miaouli Plaza to watch the world go by from one of its welcoming cafés before taking in its 19th-century orthodox churches and its shipbuilding legacy, displayed proudly in the Industrial Museum. There are also idyllic beaches to enjoy, while the medieval village of Ano Syros offers gorgeous island views from its hilltop perch, along with a picturesque central square and spread of monasteries. 

Stay: Seabourn Encore (Deluxe)

Your last port of call is the Greek capital, where a private transfer will see you to the airport for your flight home. Otherwise, speak to one of our European specialists about organising a stay in Athens. While the great Acropolis grabs the attention, there’s plenty more ancient wonders to discover as well as a thriving restaurant scene and plenty of hilltop hikes to take in its spectacular sprawl.