7 nights from Athens (Piraeus) to Istanbul, Turkey
June 8 – 15, 2025
Seabourn Cruises Seabourn Encore
Explore the wonders of the Mediterranean on Seabourn's ultra-luxury Seabourn Encore sailing from Athens to Istanbul. Explore some beautiful Greek Isles and historic Turkish ports, including Seabourn’s signature evening in Ephesus. Embark on an unparalleled journey through the cradle of civilization - the Mediterranean. From the moment you step on board your Seabourn luxury cruise ship, you will enter a world of history, culture, opulence, and exploration.
Enjoy the sophistication of our fine-dining restaurants, or the casual charm of al fresco eateries. Wake up to breathtaking views of azure waters and historic coastlines, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Mediterranean culture with expertly curated shore excursions to ancient landmarks and charming villages. From the sun-drenched beaches of the Greek Isles to the architectural wonders of ancient Istanbul, you will experience the best the Mediterranean land and sea have to offer.
Explore the wonders of the Mediterranean on Seabourn's ultra-luxury ship. Explore countries and cultures that touch your curiosity and heart.
On your Seabourn luxury cruise to Greece you will behold stunning shores, immerse in ancient history and partake in delicious Greek cuisine. In the port of Athens, experience the Acropolis via a Seabourn Mindful Living Tour or through 3D (Augmented Reality) or Virtual Reality experiences. Experience Seabourn luxury on the island of Mykonos through a private yacht excursion or UNESCO tour to Delos.
Discover the unique contrasts of Turkey, a fascinating country where history and modernity collide. On luxury Turkey cruise, visit the alluring capital of Istanbul, a cosmopolitan city divided between Europe and Asia by the scenic Bosphorus Strait. Explore the Ancient Greek city of Ephesus, home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Spend a day exploring Istanbul’s most famous landmarks, such as the Hagia Sophia, a spectacular 6th-century building that has served as a mosque, Eastern Orthodox church, and Catholic cathedral throughout its storied history. Or step inside the neighboring Blue Mosque, a grand domed structure built during the Ottoman Empire which still serves as a popular place of worship today. While in Ephesus, pay a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary, where the mother of Jesus is said to have lived during the last years of her life.
Your Ship - Luxury Seabourn Encore
With her unmatched sense of style, elegance and grace, Seabourn luxury cruise ship beckon you to travel beyond the bounds of the imagination. On board Seabourn, every desire is met promptly and with a welcoming smile. Whether it's a warm blanket and a cup of gourmet hot chocolate as you drift on a small ship cruise along the Mediterranean or a relaxing neck massage poolside, you'll feel that you're a member of a very exclusive club when sailing on these luxury cruise ships.
Step aboard Seabourn Encore and you'll enjoy a sophisticated and luxurious small ship cruise like no other. You will feel as though you’ve been invited to sail on a private yacht.
Seabourn Encore cruise offers all ocean-front suites, luxuriously appointed accommodations, an open-bar policy serving premium wine, champagne and spirits, and a world-class dining experience, further enhanced through a culinary partnership with Chef Thomas Keller.
Seabourn Encore is as strikingly beautiful and as excitingly innovative as any Seabourn has ever debuted. She crowns a fleet of luxury cruise ships that is already the newest, most modern and most acclaimed in the ultra-luxury segment. Modeled on the award-winning trio of ships introduced with Seabourn Odyssey, Seabourn Encore represents another welcome stage in the evolution of small ship cruising, which Seabourn pioneered and has consistently expanded and enriched for all of our small ship cruises.
Onboard Activities
A day on a Seabourn ship offers delightful diversions for activity or relaxation. Greet the sun for an on-deck yoga stretch, or roll over and snooze until later. Run on a sea-view treadmill in the gym, or indulge in a massage at the spa. Attend a fascinating lecture, or lounge on your private veranda as you read the news with PressReader. Try the nine-hole putting course, or test your luck at the Casino. Visit the salon for a facial, take a dip in the pool, or you can even watch a first-run movie in bed (with popcorn).
Entertainment
Evenings offer a variety of entertainment to suit your every mood, including an exclusive new musical production An Evening with Sir Tim Rice. Games of chance and skill beckon in the Casino, as well as occasional Evenings Under the Stars on deck. You will soon develop a deeply satisfying sense of membership.
Gourmet Dining
Seabourn’s award-winning cuisine starts with the finest quality ingredients, infused with authentic regional flavors, prepared á la minute by our skilled chefs and served with pride. Seabourn ship offers a choice of dining venues to suit your mood of the moment, and nearly all are open-seating, inviting you to dine where, when and with whom you wish. Complimentary fine wines are poured with lunch and dinner, and there is never an extra charge for any dining choice. You can even enjoy a meal in your suite or on your veranda, with our compliments. Seabourn is a proud member of Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, one of the world’s most prestigious gastronomic societies devoted to the art of fine dining.
Greece & Turkey Luxury Gay Cruise 2025 Itinerary
Date
Port
Arrive
Depart
08 Jun
Athens (Piraeus), Greece
5 PM
09 Jun
Gythion (Sparta), Greece
8 AM
5 PM
10 Jun
Chania, Crete (Greece)
8 AM
5 PM
11 Jun
Mykonos, Greece
8 AM
6 PM
12 Jun
Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey
8 AM
11 PM
13 Jun
Cesme, Turkey
8 AM
6 PM
14 Jun
Day at Sea!
15 Jun
Istanbul, Turkey
7 AM
Day 1 - Athens (Piraeus), Greece
Piraeus has been the port for Athens since 482 BC. The busy harbor is filled with ferries and cruise ships making their way to the Greek Islands and other Mediterranean cities. The busy metropolis of Athens and its treasure trove of antiquities lie just a few miles from the port. 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.
Day 2 - Gythion (Sparta), Greece
Gythion, the small port town for Sparta, edges its way up the hillside, which surrounds the harbor. According to Homer, Paris and Helen spent their first night together here, on a tiny islet in the bay. To commemorate the occasion, Paris erected a shrine to Aphrodite, goddess of love, only to have it torn down by the vengeful Menelaus after he recaptured Helen. In its place Menelaus erected statues honoring Praxidica (Punishment) and Themis (Justice). Not far away, at the tip of the Peloponnese, lies the Mani, a distinctive area unlike anything else in Greece. This desolate region of underground lakes and rivers and windswept landscapes is strangely beautiful. To the north of Gythion lie Sparta and Mystra, well worth a visit.
Day 3 - Chania, Crete (Greece)
Lying along the north coast of Crete is Chania, the second largest city of the island. Chania is bordered by endless stretches of seashore, with inlets and islands of exotic beauty and sandy beaches tucked away at the foot of the island's forbidding mountains. This is a self-sufficient region that is blessed with rich flora and fauna, as well as impressive gorges, holy caves, rivers and lush, green plains blanketed with citrus groves. The city of Chania is comprised of two sections, the old town and the larger modern city. Situated next to the old harbor, the old town is the focal point from which the urban area has developed. Some of the eastern and western parts of the original old Venetian fortifications from the 1500s that surrounded the town have survived and can still be seen.
Day 4 - Mykonos, Greece
The quintessential Greek island of Mykonos is marked by whitewashed houses, domed churches, imposing windmills, and a labyrinth of winding streets designed to disorient pirates. Everywhere there is a dash of bright, bold blue - doors, shutters and window frames, sea and sky. The harbor bustles with colorful fishing boats, vendors selling fish and locals gathered with visitors in the casual seaside cafes. The port even comes with two beloved mascots, the pelicans Petros and Irini.
Day 5 - Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey
Kusadasi, which means 'bird island,' is set in a superb gulf known for its sparkling water, broad sandy beaches and large marina. The city has managed to retain a certain earthiness while doing a brisk trade in Turkish carpets and leather goods to visitors. The town's old quarter is a picturesque maze of winding streets and houses adorned with flowers and birdcages. In the center stands a 17th-century caravanserai, now converted into a hotel. The resort is also gateway to important sites of archaeological and religious interest.
Day 6 - Cesme, Turkey
A popular holiday and resort destination, Cesme is located on a promontory on the tip of a peninsula that carries the same name. The town itself is dominated by the medieval Cesme Castle, while the back streets invite a casual stroll with their old Ottoman and Greek houses that charm passers-by. South of the castle there is an Ottoman caravanserai built in 1528 that has since been transformed into a lovely boutique hotel, and check the Greek Orthodox church of Ayios Haralambos to see the current art exhibition. Along with the historical attractions, visitors will enjoy local pleasures, such as a dip in the thermal baths followed by the culinary delights of native fruits, artisan cheeses and local wines.
Day 7 - Day at Sea!
While at sea, take the time to recharge before the next adventure. Lounge by the pool, be spoiled at the spa, taste the delicacies or explore the venues on-board, until we arrive at the next amazing destination.
Day 8 - Istanbul, Turkey
Spanning Europe and Asia, exotic Istanbul is one of the world's most fascinating cities. Domes and minarets enhance the skyline. In the old Stamboul area, traces remain of every city built since the community was established over 600 years before Christ. Once Rome's eastern capital, Istanbul was also the center of the huge Ottoman Empire. Landmarks include Hagia Sophia, once Christendom's greatest church; the Blue Mosque with its striking Iznik tiles; Topkapi Palace, containing a sultan's ransom of treasures; Chora Church with its Byzantine mosaics; and the Grand Bazaar, the ultimate shopping experience.
Greece & Turkey Luxury Gay Group Cruise 2025 Rates
Category
Description
Rate Per Person $ USD
V1 - Veranda Suite
Size: 246 to 302 sq. ft.; Veranda: 68 to 83 sq. ft. All Veranda Suites feature a full-length window and glass door to private veranda, comfortable living area, queen-size bed or two twin beds, dining table for two, walk-in closet, interactive flat-screen television with music and movies, fully stocked bar and refrigerator, makeup vanity, spacious bathroom with separate tub and shower.
$ 5,514
V2 - Veranda Suite
Size: 246 to 302 sq. ft.; Veranda: 68 to 83 sq. ft. All Veranda Suites feature a full-length window and glass door to private veranda, comfortable living area, queen-size bed or two twin beds, dining table for two, walk-in closet, interactive flat-screen television with music and movies, fully stocked bar and refrigerator, makeup vanity, spacious bathroom with separate tub and shower.
$ 5,963
V3 - Veranda Suite
Size: 246 to 302 sq. ft.; Veranda: 68 to 83 sq. ft. All Veranda Suites feature a full-length window and glass door to private veranda, comfortable living area, queen-size bed or two twin beds, dining table for two, walk-in closet, interactive flat-screen television with music and movies, fully stocked bar and refrigerator, makeup vanity, spacious bathroom with separate tub and shower.
$ 5,598
V4 - Veranda Suite
Size: 246 to 302 sq. ft.; Veranda: 68 to 83 sq. ft. All Veranda Suites feature a full-length window and glass door to private veranda, comfortable living area, queen-size bed or two twin beds, dining table for two, walk-in closet, interactive flat-screen television with music and movies, fully stocked bar and refrigerator, makeup vanity, spacious bathroom with separate tub and shower.
$ 5,963
PH - Penthouse Suite
Size: 450 sq. ft.; Veranda: 103 sq. ft. All Penthouse Suites on board feature a comfortable living area, glass door to private veranda, queen-size-bed or two twin beds; walk-in closet with personal safe, two flat-screen TV with music and movies, fully stocked bar and refrigerator, writing desk with personalized stationary, makeup vanity, spacious bathroom with separate tub and shower, plush robes, slippers hair dryer and 110/220V AC outlets.
$ 9,114
PS - Penthouse Spa Suite
Size: 639 to 677 sq. ft.; Veranda: 254 to 288 sq.ft. All Penthouse Suites on board feature a comfortable living area, glass door to private veranda, queen-size-bed or two twin beds; walk-in closet with personal safe, two flat-screen TV with music and movies, fully stocked bar and refrigerator, writing desk with personalized stationary, makeup vanity, spacious bathroom with separate tub and shower, plush robes, slippers hair dryer and 110/220V AC outlets.
$ 10,114
O1 - Owner's Suite
Size: 576 to 597 sq. ft.; Veranda: 142 to 778. Suites on board feature a comfortable living area, private veranda, queen-size-bed or two twin beds; walk-in closet with personal safe, interactive flat-screen TV with music and movies, fully stocked bar and refrigerator, writing desk with personalized stationary, makeup vanity, spacious bathroom with separate tub and shower, plush robes, slippers hair dryer and 110/220V AC outlets. Owner’s Suites feature expansive ocean views, forward-facing windows, dining for four to six, bathroom with whirlpool bathtub, guest bath, pantry with wet bar, and two flat-screen TVs.
$ 10,514
SS - Signature Suite
Size: 977 sq. ft.; Veranda: 960 sq. Suites on board feature a comfortable living area, private veranda, queen-size-bed or two twin beds; walk-in closet with personal safe, interactive flat-screen TV with music and movies, fully stocked bar and refrigerator, writing desk with personalized stationary, makeup vanity, spacious bathroom with separate tub and shower, plush robes, slippers hair dryer and 110/220V AC outlets. Signature Suites feature expansive ocean views, forward-facing windows, dining for four to six, bathroom with whirlpool bathtub, guest bath, pantry with wet bar, and two flat-screen TVs.
$ 13,114
GR - Grand Wintergarden Suite
Size: 1,292 sq. ft. Veranda: 244 sq. ft. Suites on board feature a comfortable living area, private veranda, queen-size-bed or two twin beds; walk-in closet with personal safe, interactive flat-screen TV with music and movies, fully stocked bar and refrigerator, writing desk with personalized stationary, makeup vanity, spacious bathroom with separate tub and shower, plush robes, slippers hair dryer and 110/220V AC outlets. Grand Wintergarden Suites feature large windows, dining for six, Glass-enclosed solarium with tub and day bed, Two bedrooms, Two bathrooms (one whirlpool), Convertible sofa bed for one, Pantry with wet bar, Two flat-screen TVs.
