COURTESY Holland America Line: Seattle, Wash., May 5, 2021 — Working in close coordination with the government of Greece, Holland America Line has received approval to restart cruising from Piraeus (Athens) in August with four departures aboard Eurodam. Bookings for these cruises will open May 6. Departing Aug. 15 and 29, the “Idyllic Greek Isles” itinerary features Kotor, Montenegro, plus the Greek isles of Kékira (Corfu), Thíra (Santorini) and Mykonos. “Ancient Wonders” departs Aug. 22 to explore …
Last day of this cruise and the weather is kind of miserable, with overhanging clouds and the threat of thunderstorms. I suspect there may be issues with some of the tours that are offered this afternoon—for example, the off-road adventure from the town to the peaks of Lovcen Mountain or the hike along the fortified old city walls. As there is no other vessel like the Esprit, this has been a unique experience, one that feels very …
Last night, before we sailed away from Parga, a duo of Greek musicians came onboard to entertain during the cocktail hour. This triggered memories—and discussions—of the movie, Zorba the Greek, and of the legendary Melina Mercouri. Today, how startling it has been to see the MSC Musica docked here, with its thousands of passengers compared to our 40+. (Esprit is not full for this cruise—and now I’ve learned that capacity is 62, not 68, as I was …
Aboard the Crystal Esprit-Last night, en route to Parga, we traveled under the Rio–Antirrio Bridge, one of the world’s longest multi-span cable-stayed bridges and the longest of the fully suspended type. It crosses the Gulf of Corinth near Patras, linking the town of Rio on the Peloponnese peninsula to Antirrio on mainland Greece by road. Today, in Parga, it’s all about the olive oil, the liquid gold of Greece. Skipping a tasting here would be like passing …
My tour today stands out as a highlight of this cruise from Athens to Dubrovnik. Our small group traveled by coach to the Archeological Museum of Delphi, one of the world’s most important museums, reflecting as it does, the essence of Hellenic culture. The museum is a modern structure and the exhibits are both accessible and easily understood, with descriptions in a number of languages. Among the many spectacular exhibits is The Charioteer, a bronze statue from …
Hydra, Greece ABOARD THE CRYSTAL ESPRIT — Today it was necessary to anchor the Espirt and to tender to shore. Although the yacht is small enough to dock in most places, some harbors are protected, so there’s a need to tender. Two complimentary tours were offered. One included a hike and a trip to the beach. I thought the beach-goers who intended to sample the sea were brave, as the water temperatures right now are pretty cold. …
Navplion, Greece ABOARD THE CRYSTAL ESPRIT — I just completed my full day on my week-long cruise of the Greek islands aboard the Crystal Esprit, which offers a true yachting experience, with just 68 passengers and more than 90 crew. The level of service quickly becomes obvious, with needs either anticipated or immediately fulfilled. Butler service takes care of so much, including complimentary pressing of my travel-wrinkled clothes. My cabin is spacious and well laid out, with …
Today’s travelers want an authentic experience when they travel. They want unique destinations and a true taste of the culture, gastronomy and history of a place. And, as modern life becomes more hectic, they want a travel experience that dissolves their cares from the moment they depart. They want a temporary home in the stars… Since 2013, Louis Cruises has kept this idea at the forefront of its efforts, particularly with the inauguration of the ‘Kalimera!’ experience. …
Just days after my Louis Cristal cruise ended, Louis Cruises has announced that it will be reaching for the stars and launching a new brand that promises to gives travelers an authentic Greek experience. I’m glad the company is heading in this direction since my Louis Cristal cruise showed me first hand what will be offered to travelers. And I think the new name is quite appropriate. “In September 2014 we will give a name to …
ATHENS, Greece – What a perfect ending to a perfect cruise. Here I am on my last night in Greece, having dinner almost in the shadow of the Acropolis. Dining at Restaurant Atticos, I’m enjoying Greek salad, tender roast beef and potatoes, eggplant, fresh olives, chunks of cheese, olive oil and crispy bread. Other dishes are being passed around the table but I already know what I like, finished off with sweet baklava. And I am certainly …
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