Cruise Offer

11-night Gems of the Mediterranean Voyage

July 20, 2023

Azamara®: Azamara Onward

Venice (Chioggia)/Istanbul

Vacation Offer ID 1438122

Reference this number when contacting our travel specialist so we may better serve you.

From $1,559

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Cruise Inclusions

INCLUSIVE AMENITIES FOR ALL GUESTS:

Complimentary AzAmazing Evenings® event (on most voyages)
Select standard spirits, international beers and wines
Gratuities
Bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas
Self-service laundry
Shuttle service to and from port communities, where available
Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations

PLUS ADDITIONAL INCLUSIVES FOR SUITE GUESTS:

English butler service
235 complimentary internet minutes, per guest
Complimentary seating in the specialty restaurants
One free bag of laundry service per suite, each seven days
Afternoon tea service in-suite
$300 Onboard Credit per person
- (Club World Owners, Club Ocean & Spa Suite categories only)

Available Add-Ons

Optional Roundtrip airfare from your city
Optional shore excursions

11-night Gems of the Mediterranean Voyage

Destination Guide
Suggested Shore Excursions

Destination	Arrival	Departure
Venice (Chioggia)	07/20/2023	07/20/2023
Venice (Chioggia)	07/21/2023	07/21/2023 06:00 PM
Zadar Optional Private Excursions Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience! Zadar sightseeing, 2 hours You will meet Your personal English speaking driver at the Zadar harbor for Your transfer to city center. There You will meet with Your private guide for Your private sightseeing of this ancient city full of history. <br /> Your tour will start with sightseeing of cultural and historic center of Zadar. During Your sightseeing, you will discover the most important sights in Zadar including Greeting the Sun installation, Sea Organ, Kalelarga's street, St. Stosias’ Cathedral and many more. <br /> Return to Your Cruiser. This is the end of our services.<br />   <p>Highlights:</p> <ul type="disc"> <li><span>Personal guide</span></li> <li>Salute to the Sun</li> <li>Sea Organ</li> <li>History</li> </ul> <p></p> <p><br /> <strong>Tour Duration</strong>: up to 2h</p> <p><strong>Tour can operate</strong>: Morning or Evening</p> <p><strong>Wheelchair Accessible</strong>: Yes</p> <p><strong>Physical Activity Level</strong>: Light</p> <p></p> <p><br /> <strong>Inclusions:</strong></p> <ul type="disc"> <li><font face="Calibri"><span>Private guide</span></font></li> </ul> <p></p> <p><br /> <strong>Not Included:</strong></p> <ul type="disc"> <li><span>Food and drinks</span></li> <li><span>Tickets</span></li> <li><span>Tips</span></li> </ul> Zadar pick up, NP Krka, 5 hours You will meet Your personal English speaking driver at the Zadar harbor for Your transfer to the Krka National Park. Upon arrival You will meet Your licensed private guide for Your tour. <br /> You will have private sightseeing tour of this beautiful National Park, famous for his waterfalls and untouched nature. <br /> Return to Your Cruiser. This is the end of our services.<br /> <br />   <p></p> <p><strong>Highlights:</strong></p> <ul type="disc"> <li>Beautiful nature</li> <li>Waterfalls</li> <li><span>Personal guide</span></li> </ul> <p></p> <p><br /> <strong>Tour Duration</strong>: up to 5h</p> <p><strong>Tour can operate</strong>: Morning</p> <p><strong>Wheelchair Accessible</strong>: No</p> <p><strong>Physical Activity Level:</strong> Moderate</p> <p></p> <p><br /> <strong>Inclusions:</strong></p> <ul type="disc"> <li><font face="Calibri"><span>Tickets</span></font></li> <li>Private guide</li> <li><span>Round transfers</span></li> </ul> <p></p> <p><br /> <strong>Not Included:</strong></p> <ul type="disc"> <li><span>Lunch</span></li> <li><span>Tips</span></li> </ul> Zadar Skydiving adventure You will meet Your personal English speaking driver at the Zadar harbor for Your transfer to Zemunik Donji where you will meet your skydiving instructor for private skydiving experience. <br /> The whole process of jumping and freefalling is called skydiving, and its by far one of the most satisfying feelings a human can experiance. While skydiving You feel an amazing adrenalline rush combined with a great feeling of pleasure. Skydiving in Croatia is unique because of the beautiful terrain you freefall and glide over. <br /> The adventure begins with a short ground preparation where your instructor will provide you with the information about the jump. Then You will board the plane with your instructor and enjoy the panoramic flight while climbing to 11,000 feet. <br /> After about 40 seconds of freefalling the instructor will pull the ripcord and the main canopy will deploy. From this moment you will have about 5 minutes of a beautiful panoramic canopy ride to the landing point and you can take control of the steering until your instructor brings you in to land. This experience is special because it also includes landing on beach. <br />  After landing you will receive a jump certificate and a DVD Video taken with the GoPro Hero 3 Black HD camera attached to instructors hand (after You land You will have to wait for video to be prepared). <br />   <p class="Body"><strong>Highlights:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Unique skydiving experience </li> <li><span calibri=""><span>Round transfer</span> </span></li> </ul> <strong>Tour Duration</strong>: up to 4h<br /> <strong>Tour can operate</strong>: Morning <br /> <strong>Wheelchair Accessible</strong>: No<br /> <strong>Physical Activity Level</strong>: Moderate<br /> <br /> <strong>Inclusions: </strong> <ul> <li>Instructor</li> <li>Cessna 206</li> <li><span>Round transfers</span></li> <li>DVD Video taken with GoPro Hero 3 Black HD camera</li> <li>Skydiving equipment and welcome drink</li> </ul> <strong>Not Included:</strong> <ul> <li>Lunch</li> <li>Tips</li> </ul> <br />   Zadar Foodie tour <p><span><span>You will meet Your personal English speaking driver at the Zadar harbor for Your transfer to city center. There You will meet with Your private guide for Your sightseeing tour.  <br /> This unique exclusive food and sightseeing tour will reveal the historic and culinary marvels of Zadar.<br /> <span>The tour will start with sightseeing of the cultural and historic center of Zadar. Discover the most important sights in Zadar including the Greeting the Sun installation, the Sea Organ, the Kalelarga street, St. Stosia Cathedral and many more. During the tour you will be stopping at some renowned Zadar restaurants where you will enjoy some traditional cuisine light meals and quality wines of the Zadar region.</span><br /> Return to Your Cruiser. This is the end of our services. </span></span></p>   <p class="Body"><strong>Highlights:</strong></p> <ul> <li><span>Sightseeing experience </span></li> <li><span>Personal guide</span></li> <li>5 meals and drinks </li> </ul> <strong>Tour Duration</strong>: up to 5h<br /> <strong>Tour can operate</strong>: Morning or afternoon<br /> <strong>Wheelchair Accessible</strong>: Yes<br /> <strong>Physical Activity Level</strong>: Easy<br /> <br /> <strong>Inclusions: </strong> <ul> <li><span>Private guide</span></li> <li><span>Transfer to city center</span></li> <li>Entrances to the museums</li> <li>5 meals and drinks</li> </ul> <strong>Not Included:</strong> <ul> <li>Tips</li> <li>Extra food and drinks</li> <li><span><span><span>Gratuities and items purchased for personal use</span></span></span></li> </ul> Pag - Island of lace and salt Your personal English speaking guide will be waiting for You at the Zadar Harbor for Your transfer to the island of Pag, the island with the longest coastline in Croatia.  Upon arrival You will proceed to Your sightseeing tour of Pag with visit to Gligor dairy.  <p>Your tour will start with sightseeing of cultural and historic center of Pag. During Your sightseeing You will learn about geomorphological and socio-economic characteristics of the island of Pag and cultural-historical development of the island. As a break from sightseeing You will visit Gligora dairy where You will enjoy in cheese tasting with glass of fine <span><span>wine. The tour will continue with a visits to the numerous sights in Pag including: the narrow city center, Museum of salt and Pag lace museum. <br /> After the sightseeing Your driver will drive You back to the Zadar harbour.</span></span></p>   <p class="Body"><strong>Highlights:</strong></p> <ul> <li><span>Sightseeing experience </span></li> <li><span>Personal guide</span></li> <li>Cheese tasting</li> <li><span calibri=""><span>Round transfer</span> </span></li> </ul> <strong>Tour Duration</strong>: up to 5h<br /> <strong>Tour can operate</strong>: Morning <br /> <strong>Wheelchair Accessible</strong>: No<br /> <strong>Physical Activity Level</strong>: Easy<br /> <br /> <strong>Inclusions: </strong> <ul> <li><span>Private guide</span></li> <li><span>Round transfers</span></li> <li><span><span>Tickets </span></span></li> </ul> <strong>Not Included:</strong> <ul> <li><span>Food and drinks</span></li> <li><span>Tips</span></li> <li><span><span><span>Gratuities and items purchased for personal use</span></span></span></li> </ul> National Park Plitvice lakes <p><span><span>You will meet Your personal English speaking driver at the Zadar harbor for Your transfer to National Park Plitvice Lakes.<br /> Upon arrival, You will meet with Your private guide for a exciting day of hiking in natural beauty of National Park Plitvice Lakes. With Your guide, You will have time to discover this beautiful natural phenomenon, famous for his waterfalls and untouched nature.</span></span><br /> <span><span><span>Return to Your Cruiser. This is the end of our servic</span></span>es.</span></p> <p class="Body"><br /> <strong>Highlights:</strong></p> <ul> <li><span>Sightseeing experience </span></li> <li><span>Personal guide</span></li> <li>Tickets<span> </span></li> <li><span calibri=""><span>Round transfer</span> </span></li> </ul> <strong>Tour Duration</strong>: up to 6h<br /> <strong>Tour can operate</strong>: Morning <br /> <strong>Wheelchair Accessible</strong>: No<br /> <strong>Physical Activity Level:</strong> Easy<br /> <br /> <strong>Inclusions:</strong>  <ul> <li><span>Private guide</span></li> <li><span>Round transfers</span></li> <li><span><span>Tickets </span></span></li> </ul> <strong>Not Included:</strong> <ul> <li>Food and drinks</li> <li>Tips</li> </ul> Zadar Archipelago adventure <p><span><span>You will meet Your personal English speaking driver at the Zadar harbor for Your transfer to the town where you will meet your skipper for your private speedboat transfer to Long Island where You will enjoy an active day of snorkeling combined with a traditional lunch. <br /> Today You will discover the beauties of Zadar Archipelago as You dive into the crystal-clear seas of two beautiful islands just off the coast of Zadar – Long Island and Zverinac. Your active day will begin with a private speedboat transfer to Long Island, more precisely Sakarun Beach – a beautiful sandy treasure, for Your snorkeling adventure.  <br /> After discovering some of the military tunnels from the cold war on the Island of Peace, You will continue on to the island of Zverinac for a traditional seafood lunch.  <br /> After lunch You will return to Zadar.</span></span><br />  </p> <p class="Body"><span><span><strong>Highlights:</strong></span></span></p> <ul> <li><span><span>Sightseeing experience</span></span></li> <li><span>Speedboat ride</span></li> <li><span><span><span>Private guide</span></span></span></li> <li><span><span><span>?<span><span>Snorkeling </span></span></span></span></span></li> </ul> <p><span><span><strong>Tour Duration</strong>: up to 6h<br /> <strong>Tour can operate: </strong>Morning<br /> <strong>Wheelchair Accessible</strong>: No<br /> <strong>Physical Activity Level</strong>: Easy<br /> <br /> <strong>Inclusions: </strong></span></span></p> <ul> <li><span><span>Skipper</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Speedboat</span></span></li> <li><span><span><span><span><span><span>Snorkeling equipment and lunch</span></span></span></span></span></span></li> <li><span><span><span><span><span><span>?<span><span>Round transfer</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li> </ul> <p><span><span><strong>Not Included:</strong></span></span></p> <ul> <li><span><span>Drinks</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Tips</span></span></li> <li><span><span><span><span>?</span></span></span></span><span>Gratuities and items purchased for personal use</span></li> </ul> Zadar tour with museums <div class="Body"><span><span>You will meet Your personal English speaking driver at the Zadar harbor for Your transfer to city center. There You will meet with Your private guide for Your private sightseeing of this city full of history including visit to museums You prefer.<br /> Your tour will start with sightseeing of cultural and historic center of Zadar. During Your sightseeing, You will discover the most important sights in Zadar including Greeting the Sun installation, Sea Organ, Kalelarga's street, St. Anastasias’ Cathedral and many more. During the sightseeing let Your guide know which museums are of interest to You as the tickets for selected museums are included!<br /> The Museum of Ancient Glass contains one of the premium collections of Roman glassware outside of Italy, with a cornucopia of goblets, jars and vials retrieved from many archaeological sites across Dalmatia. Its highlights include the delicate vessels used by Roman ladies to store perfumes, skin creams and essential oils.<br /> Return to Your Cruiser. This is the end of our services.</span></span><br />  </div> <strong><span>Highlights:</span></strong> <ul> <li>Unique sightseeing experience </li> <li>Personal guide</li> <li>Round transfers</li> <li>Sea Organ</li> <li>History</li> </ul> <span><strong>Tour Duration</strong>: up to 2h</span><br /> <span><strong>Tour can operate</strong>: Morning and afternoon</span><br /> <span><strong>Wheelchair Accessible</strong>: Yes</span><br /> <span><strong>Physical Activity Level</strong>: Light</span><br /> <br /> <strong><span>Inclusions: </span></strong> <ul> <li>Private guide</li> <li>Ticket to selected museums</li> <li><span><span><span>Gratuities and items purchased for personal use</span></span></span></li> </ul> <strong><span>Not Included:</span></strong> <ul> <li>Food and drinks</li> <li>Tips</li> </ul>	07/22/2023 08:00 AM	07/22/2023 06:00 PM
Dubrovnik Optional Private Excursions Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience! Dubrovnik: Pearl of the Adriatic Walking Tour - 4 hours Begin your day as you disembark and meet your expert local guide for an introduction to this wonderful city, proclaimed a city museum by UNESCO. The old city is cocooned inside a circuit of imposing city walls. Over a mile in length, the towering ramparts are a masterpiece of medieval and Renaissance architecture. Stroll along the beautifully-paved, main city promenade which dates back centuries and find the 14th-century Franciscan Monastery whose elegant cloister ranks among the most inspiring sites of the city. Also see the church of St Blaise, the remarkable Sponza Palace and the Rector’s Palace before finishing your tour with superb views from atop the vast city walls.<br /> <br /> <strong>Highlights: </strong> <ul> <li>Discover the charming Mediterranean city of Dubrovnik, proclaimed a city museum by UNESCO, including the impressive city walls</li> </ul> <strong>Tour Duration:</strong> 4 Hours<br /> <br /> <strong>Tour can Operate:</strong> Morning/Afternoon<br /> <br /> <strong>Wheelchair Accessible</strong>: Please enquire for more information<br /> <br /> <strong>Physical Activity Level:</strong> Moderate<br /> <br /> <strong>Inclusions:</strong> <ul> <li>Dubrovnik’s Gruz Port and the gates of Dubrovnik (no transport is required if guests tender into the Old Town harbour)</li> <li>An expert local guide for 4 hours in Dubrovnik</li> <li>Entrance fees to all sights and museums</li> <li>All taxes</li> </ul> <strong>Exclusions</strong>: <ul> <li>All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs</li> <li>Gratuities</li> </ul> Dubrovnik: Kayaking the Adriatic - 4 hours You will be met today by your driver for the short drive to the beach in Dubrovnik in front of Lokrum Island for a privately guided kayaking expedition. Paddlers are rewarded with lovely views of the city from the island, the rugged coastline of caves. Paddle to a private cove camouflaged by coastal cliffs - the perfect spot to swim, snorkel and relax on the beach At the end of the tour you will be transferred back to the ship.<br /> <br /> <strong>Highlights:</strong> <ul> <li>The beautiful natural idyll of the Elaphite Islands</li> <li>A privately-guided kayak excursion with an expert kayak leader</li> </ul> <strong>Tour Duration:</strong> 4 hours<br /> <br /> <strong>Tour can Operate:</strong> Morning/Afternoon<br /> <br /> <strong>Wheelchair Accessible:</strong> Please enquire for more information<br /> <br /> <strong>Physical Activity Level:</strong> Moderate<br /> <br /> <strong>Inclusions:</strong> <ul> <li>All necessary equipment for the kayak excursion</li> <li>Private transfers by luxury car or minivan between Dubrovnik and Zaton Bay</li> <li>All taxes</li> </ul> <strong>Exclusions</strong>: <ul> <li>All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs</li> <li>Gratuities</li> </ul> Dubrovnik: Tastes of the Peljesac Peninsula - 6 hours One of the finest coastal drives in Europe awaits you today as you journey with your private guide and driver along the Peljesac Peninsula to Mali Ston, where vast defensive walls are said to be second only in length to those in China. The inlet at Mali Ston offers the perfect environment for cultivating oysters so while here, why not take the opportunity to sample a fresh oyster right at the spot where they were pulled out of the sea.<br /> <br /> The unusual and harsh territory of Peljesac is also perfect for growing very high quality grapes and olives in very small quantities so this is the perfect place to visit to a small family winery. Though the cellar of the winery is located directly under the family home, the white and red wines produced here are well known throughout Croatia due to their high quality. Enjoy tastings of Croatian wine before returning past the salt pans of Ston to your cruise ship in Dubrovnik.<br /> <br /> <strong>Highlights:</strong> <ul> <li>Sample some fresh oysters from the Inlet at Mali Ston</li> <li>Taste some fantastic Croatian wines, whose grapes were grown on the Peljesac peninsula</li> </ul> <strong>Tour Duration:</strong> 6 hours<br /> <br /> <strong>Tour Can Operate:</strong> Morning/Afternoon<br /> <br /> <strong>Wheelchair Accessible:</strong> Please enquire for more information<br /> <br /> <strong>Physical Activity Level: </strong>Light<br /> <br /> <strong>Inclusions:</strong> <ul> <li>Oyster and wine tastings</li> <li>Private transport by luxury car or minivan</li> <li>An expert local guide for 6 hours throughout the tour</li> <li>Entrance fees to all sights and museums</li> <li>All taxes</li> </ul> <strong>Exclusions:</strong> <ul> <li>All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs</li> <li>Gratuities</li> </ul> Dubrovnik: Elaphite Islands by Private Motor Yacht - 8 hours Stoked by the sun and cheered by the breeze, start your private boat tour around the beautiful Elaphite islands. This picturesque archipelago within the vicinity of Dubrovnik comprises 13 islands, islets and rocks. Abounding in lush subtropical vegetation of laurel, cypress and pine trees, and fragrant thyme and rosemary, the islands were formerly the favourite summer residence of the Dubrovnik aristocracy.<br /> <br /> Discover the three largest islands in the group with your skipper. The island of Kolocep has an interior covered by dense pine forest while the inhabitants live in a quaint fishing village that stretches along the sandy beach. Continue to Lopud, dominated by its Franciscan Monastery and home to the beautiful Gjorgic-Mayneri Park. Enjoy time at leisure to stroll through the winding streets, swim on the Sunj beach and perhaps enjoy lunch in one of the excellent local restaurants. Later, visit Sipan, the largest of the islands where hillsides are decorated with numerous summer villas, Renaissance churches and baroque chapels. Return to Dubrovnik from here.<br /> <br /> <strong>Highlights:</strong> <ul> <li>Explore the quaint island of Kolocep</li> <li>Visit the island of Lopud, home to the beautiful Gjorgic-Mayneri Park</li> <li>Spend time on Sipan, the largest of the islands</li> </ul> <strong>Tour Duration:</strong> 8 hours<br /> <br /> <strong>Tour can Operate:</strong> Morning/Afternoon<br /> <br /> <strong>Wheelchair Accessible:</strong> Please enquire for more information<br /> <br /> <strong>Physical Activity Level:</strong> Low<br /> <br /> <strong>Inclusions:</strong> <ul> <li>Jeanneau Prestige 36 private motor yacht (or similar) with expert skipper</li> <li>Fuel and marina fees for the specified itinerary</li> <li>All taxes</li> </ul> <strong>Exclusions:</strong> <ul> <li>All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs</li> <li>Gratuities</li> </ul> Dubrovnik pick up, bike tour, wine tasting and lunch in Konavle, 5 hours <p><span>You will meet your guide at the meeting point for private transfer for Your biking, wine tasking and lunch experience in beautiful Konavle region.<br /> After brief instruction by Your guide, You will start half day biking tour in picturesque Konavle region, Dubrovnik’s inland. You will ride accompanied by a personal guide at a relaxed pace, stops are made every few kilometers on each place of interest. Along the river, You will pass by the old mils, presenting rich tradition of this region.<br /> Through macadam roads and lush wood, You will continue toward a museum. You will visit a private ethnographic collection (in the house that is 400 years old). Next is visit to local family that produces homemade liqueurs, wine, dried figs and oil. There You will have a tasting of wine, liquors and local products (snack with homemade cheese, and bacon).<br /> <br /> Return to Dubrovnik. This is the end of our services. </span></p> <br /> <strong>Highlights:</strong> <ul> <li> <p>Biking and round transfers</p> </li> <li>Wine tasting</li> <li>Personal guide</li> </ul> <strong>Tour Duration: </strong>up to 5h<br /> <strong>Tour can operate:</strong> Morning<br /> <strong>Wheelchair Accessible:</strong> No<br /> <strong>Physical Activity Level:</strong> Moderate<br /> <br /> <strong>Inclusions:</strong>  <ul> <li>Wine Tasting</li> <li>Lunch</li> <li>Bikes</li> <li>Round transfers</li> <li>Snacks at local wine producer</li> </ul> <strong>Not Included: </strong> <ul> <li>Tips</li> </ul> Dubrovnik & Oysters Tasting, 3 hours, from Dubrovnik <span>Your personal English speaking driver will be waiting for You at the Dubrovnik Harbor. He will be holding a sign with Your name on it. You will be transferred to city center for Your sightseeing tour of Dubrovnik. Your personal, professional guide will reveal You secrets and history of UNESCO's gem.<br /> <br /> Today You will embark on a journey to the past of Dubrovnik with Your personal guide. Your sightseeing tour will begin with exploring the main street in Dubrovnik - Stradun (Placa). You will visit some of the most famous landmarks of Dubrovnik such as the Rector's Palace, Franciscan monastery, Palace Sponza, the Dubrovnik Cathedral, St. Blaise Church and many others.<br /> <br /> After Your private tour, guide will escort You to the local oyster's bar where you will have presentation of oysters types with tasting and champagne. Your guide will suggest a restaurant for lunch on site depending on Your desires<br /> <br /> This is the end of our services. </span><br /> <br /> <br /> <strong>Highlights:</strong> <ul> <li>Private sightseeing of Dubrovnik</li> <li>Oysters tasting</li> <li>Personal guide</li> <li>Transfers with Mercedes E Class car</li> </ul> <strong>Tour Duration: </strong>up to 3h<br /> <strong>Tour can operate:</strong> Morning or evening<br /> <strong>Wheelchair Accessible:</strong> Yes<br /> <strong>Physical Activity Level:</strong> Moderate<br /> <br /> <strong>Inclusions:</strong>  <ul> <li>Oysters tasting</li> <li>Tickets for the museums</li> <li>Transfer to city center</li> </ul> <strong>Not Included: </strong> <ul> <li>Lunch</li> <li>Tips</li> </ul> Dubrovnik sightseeing, 3 hours, from Dubrovnik <span>Your personal English speaking driver will be waiting for You at the Dubrovnik Harbor. He will be holding a sign with Your name on it. You will be transferred to city center for Your sightseeing tour of Dubrovnik. Your personal, professional guide will reveal You secrets and history of UNESCO's gem.<br /> <br /> Today You will embark on a journey to the past of Dubrovnik. Let Yourself be taken back to the past and get an insight of what the daily life in "Ragusa" looked like. During this tour, You will understand the privileges the citizens of this magnificent city enjoyed. They had one of the oldest pharmacies in Europe dating back to the 14.ct, fountain with fresh water from one of the first water supply system and a developed care system for the old and poor citizens. Dubrovnik is over a thousand-year-old. Its history is visible in every part of this city.</span><br /> <br /> Highlights: <ul> <li>Old Town of Dubrovnik</li> <li>Museums</li> <li>Personal guide</li> </ul> Tour Duration: up to 3h<br /> Tour can operate: Morning or evening<br /> Wheelchair Accessible: Yes<br /> Physical Activity Level: Light<br /> <br /> Inclusions:  <ul> <li>Private guide</li> <li>Dubrovnik card (you can choose from the following: Art Galley Dubrovnik, Dubrovnik city walls,     Dulcic-Masle-Pulitika Gallery, Marin Drzic House, Maritime museum, Natural History Museum, Rector’s Palace and Rupe Ethnographic Museum) </li> <li>transfer to city center</li> </ul> <br /> Not Included: <ul> <li>Lunch</li> <li>Tips</li> </ul> Dubrovnik & Wine tasting, 3 hours, from Dubrovnik <span>Your personal English speaking driver will be waiting for You at the Dubrovnik Harbor. He will be holding a sign with Your name on it. You will be transferred to city center for Your sightseeing tour of Dubrovnik. Your personal, professional guide will reveal You secrets and history of UNESCO's gem enriched with wine presentation and tasting.<br /> <br /> Your personal guide will reveal to You secrets and history of UNESCO's gem. Today You will embark on a journey to the past of Dubrovnik. Let Yourself be taken back to the past and get an insight of what the daily life in "Ragusa" looked like.<br /> <br /> During this tour, You will understand the privileges the citizens of this magnificent city enjoyed.  Following the tour, you will continue on to wine tasting with snacks at one of the finest Wine bars in Dubrovnik.<br /> <br /> This is the end of our services. </span><br /> <br /> <span>Highlights:</span> <ul> <li>Old Town of Dubrovnik</li> <li>Museums</li> <li>Personal guide</li> <li>Transfers with Mercedes E Class car</li> <li>Wine tasting</li> </ul> <span>Tour Duration: up to 3h</span><br /> <span>Tour can operate: Morning or evening</span><br /> <span>Wheelchair Accessible: Yes</span><br /> <span>Physical Activity Level: Light</span><br /> <br /> <span>Inclusions: </span> <ul> <li>Private guide</li> <li>Tickets to preferred museums</li> <li>Wine tasting</li> <li>One way transfer to city center</li> </ul> <br /> <span>Not Included:</span> <ul> <li>Lunch</li> <li>Tips</li> </ul> Dubrovnik & Game of thrones, full day, from Dubrovnik <p><span>You will meet Your personal English-speaking driver and guide at the harbor of Dubrovnik for Your transfer   to Arboretum botanical garden – first stop of filming locations<br /> <br /> On this tour, You will see the Dubrovnik locations used in the hit TV series ‘Game of Thrones’. You will climb the city walls, picturing the bloody battles from the TV series, and visit Lovrijenac Fortress to learn about the evil exploits of King Joffrey. Follow in the footsteps of Arya Stark and hear insider gossip galore about the popular series. See the sights of King’s Landing, the capital of the Seven Kingdoms.<br /> <br /> Your day will start with visiting the Arboretum early in the morning.  This magical botanical garden doubles up as the beautiful gardens of King’s landing and is one of the major filming locations of the Game of Thrones TV show. These are the gardens where main protagonists weave their plots and exchange secrets at King's Landing.<br /> <br /> Next step is return to the city, on Pile gate for tour of the city. Several scenes have been filmed at Pile Bay.  The base of Minceta Tower was used as the exterior of House of Undying in the town of Qarth. It is the place where Daenerys Targaryen walks around trying to find the entrance into the House of Undying looking for her stolen dragons in season two.<br /> <br /> Fort Lovrijenac doubles as the Red Keep in King’s Landing, the capital of the Seven Kingdoms. Lots of the scenes are filmed at this Fort including the tournament thrown in honor of King Joffrey’s name day in season two.  <br /> <br /> After visiting Lovrijenac fortress and city tour (including the walls) You will continue towards Lokrum with a public boat. The Game of Thrones production team used the island of Lokrum as a stand-in for the city of Qarth near the Jade Sea, which is visited by Daenerys Targaryen in season two. </span></p> <br /> <br /> Highlights: <ul> <li>Become part of Game of Thrones series</li> <li>Personal guide</li> <li>Pile</li> <li>Arboretum</li> <li>Lokrum Island</li> </ul> Tour Duration: full day<br /> Tour can operate: Morning<br /> Wheelchair Accessible: No<br /> Physical Activity Level: Light<br /> <br /> Inclusions:  <ul> <li>Transfers</li> <li>Private guide</li> </ul> Not Included: <ul> <li>Lunch</li> <li>Tips</li> </ul> Dubrovnik pick up, Peljesac wine & oyster story, 5 hours <p><span>Your personal English speaking driver will be waiting for You at the Dubrovnik Harbor. He will be holding a sign with Your name on it. You will be transferred to Ston. Your private tour will include exploring beautiful Peljesac peninsula with Oysters and Wine tasting.<br /> <br /> Today You will embark on private, gourmand tour that will take You to Peljesac peninsula, a place that is famous worldwide for its red wines and oysters. This area is You will known for two things; the longest European city walls that are still standing and old salt works. Your tour will start with drive along the coast to the small town called Ston.<br /> <br /> After short walking tour through narrow streets of Ston, You will continue on to village Ponikve where You will visit local wine producer. Following wine tasting and introducing with wine production in this area, You will continue driving back to Mali Ston. There You will embark on the small boat for a short sailing on the bay. You will sail to the oyster beds where You will taste oysters, mussels and local wine grape of the board of the boat<br /> This is end of the tour. Return to your cruiser.</span><br /> <br /> <span>Return to Dubrovnik. This is the end of our services. </span><br /> <span>Highlights:</span></p> <ul> <li>Ston tour</li> <li>Dubrovnik sightseeing</li> <li>Wine and oyster tasting</li> <li>Personal guide</li> <li>Transfers with Mercedes E Class car</li> </ul> <span>Tour Duration: up to 5h</span><br /> <span>Tour can operate: Morning</span><br /> <span>Wheelchair Accessible: No</span><br /> <span>Physical Activity Level: Moderate</span><br /> <br /> <span>Inclusions: </span> <ul> <li>Wine, oysters and mussels tasting</li> <li>Round transfers</li> <li>Private guide</li> </ul> <span>Not Included:</span> <ul> <li>Tips</li> <li>Lunch</li> <li>Tickets for museums</li> </ul> Dubrovnik pick up, Kayak safari tour, 4 hours <span>Your personal English-speaking driver will be waiting for You at the Dubrovnik Harbor. He will be holding a sign with Your name on it.<br /> <br /> Your day will start with a unique experience that will allow You to actively enjoy and explore the natural beauty of the Dalmatian coast. Traveling by kayak gives You an intimate and more private insight of this UNESCO gem.  This private tour starts with a transfer to Banje beach. Upon arrival Your guide will teach You how to use the paddles. As soon as you feel ready You will start paddling in the direction of the old harbor and the Old Town city walls.<br /> <br /> The next route is around the island of Lokrum where You will have a short stop in a cave on the island.  There You will have a 1-hour break from the paddling for some sightseeing on your own, swimming, hiking on the island or snorkeling. After that You will continue back to the coast and Banje beach.<br /> <br /> Return to Your Cruiser in Dubrovnik. This is the end of our services.</span><br /> <br /> Highlights: <ul> <li>Kayaking tour with beautiful scenery</li> <li>Personal guide</li> </ul> Tour Duration: up to 4h<br /> Tour can operate: Morning or evening<br /> Wheelchair Accessible: No<br /> Physical Activity Level: Moderate<br /> <br /> Inclusions:  <ul> <li>Private guide</li> <li>Kayaks</li> <li>Round transfers</li> </ul> Not Included: <ul> <li>Lunch</li> <li>Tips</li> </ul> Dubrovnik pick up, Dubrovnik and silk experience, 5 hours <span>Your personal English speaking driver will be waiting for You at the Dubrovnik Harbor for private transfer to a city center. He will be holding a sign with Your name on it.<br /> <br /> Today You will embark on a journey to the past of Dubrovnik. Let Yourself be taken back to the past and get an insight of what the daily life in "Ragusa" looked like. During this tour, You will understand the privileges the citizens of this magnificent city enjoyed.<br /> They had one of the oldest pharmacies in Europe dating back to the 14.ct, fountain with fresh water from one of the first water supply system and a developed care system for the old and poor citizens. Dubrovnik is over a thousand-year-old. It’s history is visible in every part of this city. Dubrovnik is on UNESCO's list of cultural heritages and is regarded as one of the most beautiful cities in the Mediterranean<br /> <br /> After You sightseeing of Dubrovnik You will meet Your professional personal driver for unique experience. Today You will enjoy in demonstration of how silk is made (including traditional cake). You will be transferred to little village called Gruda where You will meet a wonderful person which does her best to save the heritage in Tailoring and Silk making of Dubrovnik. Demonstration of how silk is made and cake (included)</span><br /> <br /> <br /> <strong>Highlights:</strong> <ul> <li>Personal driver</li> <li>Personal silk demonstration</li> <li>Cake </li> </ul> <strong>Tour Duration: </strong><span>up to 6h</span><br /> <strong>Tour can operate:</strong><span> Morning</span><br /> <strong>Wheelchair Accessible:</strong><span> No</span><br /> <strong>Physical Activity Level:</strong><span> Moderate</span><br /> <br /> <strong>Inclusions:</strong><span> </span> <ul> <li>Personal guide</li> <li>Cake and personal demonstration</li> <li>Round transfers</li> </ul> <strong>Not Included:</strong> <ul> <li>Tips</li> <li>Tickets</li> <li>Lunch</li> </ul> Dubrovnik pick up, Car&driver on disposal, 6 hours <span>Your personal English speaking driver will be waiting for You at the Dubrovnik Harbor. He will be holding a sign with Your name on it. </span><span>You will have car and driver at Your disposal for 6h. We suggest You to visit Cavtat, Konavle or Ston</span><br /> <br /> <br /> <strong>Highlights:</strong> <ul> <li>Personal driver</li> <li>Flexible tour</li> <li>Mercedes  E class or Mercedes Viano</li> </ul> <strong>Tour Duration: </strong><span>up to 6h</span><br /> <strong>Tour can operate:</strong><span> Morning</span><br /> <strong>Wheelchair Accessible:</strong><span> No</span><br /> <strong>Physical Activity Level:</strong><span> Light</span><br /> <br /> <strong>Inclusions:</strong><span> </span> <ul> <li>Personal driver</li> </ul> <strong>Not Included:</strong> <ul> <li>Tips</li> </ul> Buggy tour and sightseing of Dubrovnik <p class="Body"><span><span>You will meet Your personal English speaking driver at the Dubrovnik harbor for Your transfer to city center. There You will meet with Your private guide for Your sightseeing tour </span></span><br /> <span>Today You will embark on a journey to the past of Dubrovnik. Let Yourself be taken back to the past and get an insight of what the daily life in "Ragusa" looked like. Dubrovnik is over a thousand-year-old. Its history is visible in every part of this city. Dubrovnik is on UNESCO's list of cultural heritages and is regarded as one of the most beautiful cities in the Mediterranean.<br /> <br /> After the sightseeing tour Your guide will escort You to the cable car. On top Your buggy instructor will be waiting for You for Your exciting buggy sightseeing tour.<br /> <br /> Prepare to be amazed by the spectacular views and wilderness just 5 minutes from the Old town of Dubrovnik. After the tour introduction, start Your engines and get off the beaten track in our 2-seater buggies. You will have the opportunity to see parts of Dubrovnik’s surroundings rarely seen by its visitors. In this 1-hour expedition You will have the opportunity to explore the Imperial Fortress, the War museum or simply enjoy the views of Dubrovnik on the terrace of one the most amazing belvederes in Croatia.</span></p> <p class="Body"><br /> Highlights:</p> <ul> <li><span><span>unique sightseeing experience </span></span></li> <li><span><span>Personal guide</span></span></li> <li><span><span>cable car </span></span></li> <li><span><span>buggy ride experience </span></span></li> </ul> Tour Duration: up to 4h<br /> Tour can operate: Morning or afternoon<br /> Wheelchair Accessible: No<br /> Physical Activity Level: Easy<br /> <br /> Inclusions:  <ul> <li><span>Private guide</span></li> <li><span><span><span>Cable car round transfers</span></span></span></li> <li><span><span><span>Buggy ride</span></span></span></li> <li><span><span><span><span>Tickets for cable card</span></span></span></span></li> </ul> Not Included: <ul> <li>Lunch</li> <li>Tips</li> <li><span><span><span>Tickets for the museums</span></span></span></li> </ul>   <p class="Body"><span calibri=""><o:p></o:p></span></p> Dubrovnik tour and Coral factory <p class="Body"><span>Your personal English speaking driver will be waiting for You at the Dubrovnik Harbor. He will be holding a sign with Your name on it. You will be transferred to city center for Your sightseeing tour of Dubrovnik. Your personal, professional guide will reveal You secrets and history of UNESCO's gem enriched with the visit to the Clara coral shop and manufacture.<br /> <br /> Today You will embark on a journey to the past of Dubrovnik with Your personal guide. Your sightseeing tour will begin with exploring the main street in Dubrovnik - Stradun (Placa).<br /> <br /> You will visit some of the most famous landmarks of Dubrovnik. As a break, You will stop in “Clara Stones” workshop, wonderful jewelry shop where You will have a private demonstration of how jewelers make beautiful jewelry from a rude coral; and please, feel free to try making something Yourself!<br /> <br /> This is the end of our services. </span><br /> <br /> <br /> Highlights:</p> <ul> <li><span>Sightseeing experience </span></li> <li><span>Personal guide</span></li> <li><span>Demonstration of coral jewelry production </span></li> <li><span><span>Transfer to city center</span></span></li> </ul> Tour Duration: up to 3h<br /> Tour can operate: Morning or evening<br /> Wheelchair Accessible: No<br /> Physical Activity Level: Easy<br /> <br /> Inclusions:  <ul> <li><span>Private guide</span></li> <li><span><span>Demonstration of coral jewelry production</span></span></li> <li><span>Transfer to city center</span></li> <li><span><span>Tickets to preferred museums</span></span></li> </ul> Not Included: <ul> <li>Lunch</li> <li>Tips</li> </ul>   <p class="Body"><span calibri=""><o:p></o:p></span></p> Dubrovnik tour with emphasis on Jewish Heritage <span>Your personal English speaking driver will be waiting for You at the Dubrovnik Harbor. He will be holding a sign with Your name on it. You will be transferred to city center for Your sightseeing tour of Dubrovnik. Your personal, professional guide will reveal You secrets, history of UNESCO's gem and Jewish heritage.<br /> <br /> Today You will embark on a journey to the past of Dubrovnik. Let Yourself be taken back to the past and get an insight of what the daily life in "Ragusa" looked like. During this tour You will understand the privileges the citizens of this magnificent city enjoyed. They had one of the oldest pharmacies in Europe dating back to the 14.ct, fountain with fresh water from one of the first water supply system and a developed care system for the old and poor citizens.<br /> <br /> This is the end of our services. </span><br /> <br /> <br /> <span>Highlights:</span> <ul> <li><span>unique sightseeing experience </span></li> <li><span>Personal guide</span></li> <li><span>transfer to city center</span></li> </ul> <span> Tour Duration: up to 3h<br /> Tour can operate: Morning or evening<br /> Wheelchair Accessible: No<br /> Physical Activity Level: Easy<br /> <br /> Inclusions: </span> <ul> <li><span>Private guide</span></li> <li><span><span>tickets for the museums (Art Galley Dubrovnik, Dubrovnik city walls, Dulcic-Masle-Pulitika Gallery, Marin Drzic House, Maritime museum, Natural History Museum, Rector’s Palace and Rupe Ethnographic Museum)</span></span></li> </ul> <span> Not Included:</span> <ul> <li><span>Lunch</span></li> <li><span>Tips</span></li> </ul> <br />   Dubrovnik Cooking class <span><span>Your personal English speaking driver will be waiting for You at the harbor. He will be holding a sign with Your name on it. This tour will take You to the home of local family in Konavle where You will learn the history and tradition of the region through cooking class.<br /> <br /> After scenic drive from Dubrovnik we reach Konavle, Your hosts will welcome You with traditional liqueurs and figs made in their own production. Next, they will show You through their beautiful property and the garden. Here You will pick up traditional vegetables and fruits. Obtaining the necessary ingredients for preparing the traditional meals, dishes and refreshments cooking class becomes a very fun journey. The class will end with a tasteful traditional meal in which You will all enjoy together like a traditional family.<br /> <br /> Upon interesting culinary experience Your tour continues to visit of famous Sokol Tower, the most impressive medieval remains in the Dubrovnik area, which offers an impressive view of the magnificent landscapes of Konavle in their full beauty.<br /> <br /> Return to Dubrovnik.<br /> <br /> Highlights:</span></span> <ul> <li><span><span>Unique gastronomy experience </span></span></li> <li><span><span>Off the beaten track </span></span></li> <li><span><span>Local way of life</span></span></li> </ul> Tour Duration: up to 5h<br /> Tour can operate: Morning or afternoon<br /> Wheelchair Accessible: Yes<br /> Physical Activity Level: Easy<br /> <br /> <span><span>Inclusions: </span></span> <ul> <li><span><span><span>traditional lunch and entrance for Sokol Tower</span></span></span></li> <li><span><span><span>guided culinary and history tour</span></span></span></li> <li><span><span>Round transfers</span></span></li> </ul> Not Included: <ul> <li>Tips</li> </ul>   <p class="Body"><span><span><i><span>* Please let us know: if You have any food dislikes or allergies  </span></i></span></span><i><span calibri=""><o:p></o:p></span></i></p> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br />   Magic gastro and history experience in Dubrovnik <div class="Body"><span><span>Let yourself be taken on a magical ride where the history, culture and main town attractions of this UNESCO protected gem will be highlighted. The tour will take you to five different points, all with the purpose of illustrating local traditions and typical regional ingredients and contemporary views of historical specialties<span>. </span><br /> During this gastronomy journey, you will get to know the most famous sites of Dubrovnik, beginning with some basic info on the city, followed by visits to the mentioned monuments and restaurants along the way. <span>In the coastal regions of Croatia, the cuisine has a Mediterranean flavor, with lots of olive oil used in the preparation of fish and seafood.</span> For meat lovers there are all kinds of meat baked under a baking lid - <em>peka</em>. Discover different regions of south Croatia by tasting corresponding signature wines.</span></span></div> <div class="Body"><br /> <span>Highlights:</span></div> <ul> <li><span>Unique gastro sightseeing experience </span></li> <li><span>Private guide</span></li> <li><span>Local food </span></li> </ul> <span>Tour Duration: up to 3-4h<br /> Tour can operate: Morning or evening<br /> Wheelchair Accessible: No<br /> Physical Activity Level: Easy<br /> <br /> Inclusions: </span> <ul> <li><span>private guide</span></li> <li><span><span>drinks and food consumption in 5 restaurants</span></span></li> <li><span><span>transfer from Gruz harbor to town center</span></span></li> </ul> <span> Not Included:</span> <ul> <li><span>Tips</span></li> <li><span>Return transfer</span></li> </ul> <p class="Body"><span calibri=""><o:p></o:p></span></p> Dubrovnik: Cooking Class in the Konavle Valley - 6 hours Journey to the heart of the Konavle Valley accompanied by your private guide and driver. Situated just inside the hinterlands near Dubrovnik, this area is known for its carefully-preserved folk customs, rich national costumes and cuisine.<br /> <br /> On arrival in one of the typical villages of the region, receive a warm welcome from your host who chats to you about local life in the area while you try some homemade liquors and pastries. Your host shows you how to prepare delicious homemade bread before you head out into the garden in order to collect the necessary ingredients for your cooking class. You even have the opportunity to milk a goat in order to have fresh milk and cheese for your selected dish.<br /> <br /> Afterwards, enjoy the fruits of your labour as you tuck in to the meal you have helped prepare all together before returning to your cruise ship.<br /> <br /> <strong>Highlights:</strong> <ul> <li>Discover the rural traditions of the Dalmatian  countryside</li> <li>Learn the secrets of the delicious local cuisine with a private cooking class</li> </ul> <strong>Tour Duration:</strong> 6 hours<br /> <br /> <strong>Tour can Operate:</strong> Morning/Afternoon<br /> <br /> <strong>Wheelchair Accessible</strong>: Please enquire for more information<br /> <br /> <strong>Physical Activity Level:</strong> Easy<br /> <br /> <strong>Inclusions:</strong> <ul> <li>Private transport by luxury car or minivan</li> <li>An expert local guide throughout (6 hours)</li> <li>All taxes</li> </ul> <strong>Exclusions:</strong> <ul> <li>All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs</li> <li>Gratuities</li> </ul>	07/23/2023 08:00 AM	07/23/2023 10:00 PM
At Sea	07/24/2023	07/24/2023
Cephalonia (Argostoli)	07/25/2023 08:00 AM	07/25/2023 02:00 PM
Soudha Bay (Chania)	07/26/2023 08:00 AM	07/26/2023 06:00 PM
Santorini Optional Private Excursions Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience! Santorini Island Tour - Half Day Tour approx 4 hours <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">You will be met by your English-speaking guide upon disembarkation from the ship, at the bottom of the cable car at the Old Port of Fira. Our lovely tour starts with a scenic drive through the plains of Santorini to picturesque Oia, the crowning glory of peace and tranquility. </font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Built on the northern part of the caldera rim, it is here where many artists have been inspired due to its magnificent location with its most superb views of the caldera, the rest of the island and the Aegean Sea.. We then stop at one of the famous wineries to enjoy a wine tasting tour of the fine wines produced on the island. Our final stop is Fira, the islands capital town. </font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">The island used to be circular, but a massive volcanic explosion around 3,500 years ago blew out the centre of the island. (Many people attribute the decline of Minoan civilization on Crete to this cataclysmic eruption. High cliffs jutting into the sea are all that's left of the crater rim. </font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">The surrounding islands are the remains of the sides of the crater, and the sea has filled in the gaps, forming a beautiful bay. Sunsets on the island are particularly striking; all the restaurants and bars in Fira face west over the sunken volcano and the Aegean Sea. </font></p> Santorini Wine Roads Tour (Private) - 5 hours <strong>Highlights/Description:</strong><br /> <br /> You will be met in Fira town (top of the cable car) by your Expert Sommelier and seated on a luxury air conditioned coach, where you will travel around the Island visiting three Family Estate Wineries under the continual guidance of your Sommelier. Each Winery is unique in architectural design and you will get to taste fifteen different styles of wine. Our Sommelier will initiate you into the magical artistic process from the grape to the bottle, providing all the knowledge you need whilst enjoying a series of awarded white and upcoming red wines as some of the prestigious signature dessert wines Vinsanto. You will also get a chance to take in the scenery whilst stopping off a Vineyard to see the unique cultivation technique of "Kouloura" and the specificity of soil & microclimate. It is a journey among the paths of ancient vineyards, simplicity traditional family run wineries, modern wine making techniques and most important…the Awakening of the senses whilst tasting The Finest Theraic Wines, returning, having a memorable & most enjoyable experience.<br />  <br /> <strong>Tour Duration: </strong>5 Hours<br /> <strong>Tour can operate:</strong> Morning or Afternoon<br /> <strong>Wheelchair Accessible:</strong> No<br /> <strong>Physical Activity Level:</strong> Light<br /> <br /> <strong>Inclusions:</strong> <ul> <li>English-speaking Sommelier guide</li> <li>Entrance fees</li> <li>Applicable taxes</li> <li>Transfers to/from Fira town</li> </ul> <strong>Not Included: </strong> <ul> <li>Meals, unless otherwise noted</li> <li>Cable car tickets (5 EUR pp) from old Port into Fira town</li> <li>Gratuities</li> <li>Personal expenses</li> </ul> Crafting Day - Santorini - 5 hours <strong>Highlights/Description:</strong> <ul> <li>Visiting local bakery</li> <li>Learn all the process of baking bread and making traditional sweets</li> <li>Visiting traditional pottery studio</li> <li>Introduction to the local pottery art</li> <li>Learn the whole process of creating ceramics</li> </ul> Follow us as we show you how to bake bread and make local products and delicious sweets at the local bakery "Gregory's". Then visit the pottery studio "Choma & Nero" to learn the history behind the pottery art of Santorini and try yourself to create unique pieces of ceramics. Learn the techniques, bake your creation and enjoy the process as people did ages ago.<br />  <br /> <strong>Tour Duration: </strong>4-5 Hours<br /> <strong>Tour can operate:</strong> Morning or Afternoon<br /> <strong>Wheelchair Accessible:</strong> No<br /> <strong>Physical Activity Level:</strong> Light to Moderate<br /> <strong>Inclusions:</strong> <ul> <li>English-speaking host</li> <li>Applicable taxes</li> <li>Transfers to/from Fira town</li> </ul> <strong>Not Included: </strong> <ul> <li>Meals, unless otherwise noted</li> <li>Cable car tickets (5 EUR pp) from old Port into Fira town</li> <li>Gratuities</li> <li>Personal expenses</li> </ul> Santorini Island Discovery - 5 hours <strong>Highlights/Description:</strong><br /> Begin in the village of Mesa Gonia where you will visit one of the islands greatest treasures; the little Panagia Episkopi Church built in 1115 AD, during the Byzantine period and housing one of the three most priceless icons in the world. You will then be whisked up the hill to one of the more traditional villages, Pyrgos, which also boasts the ruins of a Medieval Venetian castle. The village is overlooked solely by the Mount Profitis Ilias and as one of the highest points of Santorini, offers a fantastic view of the crescent shaped island.  Next we are off to a wine tasting at a family owned wine estate in Megalochori, where you have the opportunity to learn a little about and sip on some of the famous wines of Santorini. The Grand Finale of our tour sees you entering the gates of the ancient site of Akrotiri, also known as the "Minoan Pompeii" which was destroyed and covered by the ashes of an enormous volcanic eruption in 1450BC. The settlement contained sophisticated multi-story buildings and magnificent fresco paintings signifying the just how advanced the Minoans were at that stage. After this exhilarating experience our guide will bring you safely back to your hotel to enjoy the rest of your stay on Santorini.<br /> <br /> <strong>Tour Duration: </strong>5 Hours<br />  <strong>Tour can operate:</strong> Morning or Afternoon<br /> <strong>Wheelchair Accessible:</strong> No<br /> <strong>Physical Activity Level:</strong> Moderate<br /> <br /> <strong>Inclusions:</strong> <ul> <li>Licensed, English-speaking guide</li> <li>Applicable taxes</li> <li>Transfers to/from Fira town</li> </ul> <strong>Not Included: </strong> <ul> <li>Meals, unless otherwise noted</li> <li>Cable car tickets (5 EUR pp) from old Port into Fira town</li> <li>Gratuities</li> <li>Personal expenses</li> </ul> Private Catamaran Cruise - Santorini - 5 hours <strong>Highlights/Description:</strong><br /> Your Private Catamaran Cruise begins from Vlihada Marina, sailing past the red and white beaches, and on to Akrotiri and the ancient light house. The first stop will be at the volcano and the hot springs a quick swim. Next, you will proceed to a beautiful and secluded bay for a swim and snorkeling, while the onboard chef prepares your lunch of seafood and steak barbeque. Following lunch, continue sailing through the caldera past the islands of Thirassia and Aspronissi and back towards Vlihada.<br />  <br /> <strong>Tour Duration: </strong>5 Hours<br /> <strong>Tour can operate:</strong> Morning or Sunset<br /> <strong>Wheelchair Accessible:</strong> No<br /> <strong>Physical Activity Level:</strong> Light to Moderate<br /> <br /> <strong>Inclusions:</strong> <ul> <li>English-speaking driver and boat crew</li> <li>Applicable taxes</li> <li>Transfers (meeting point will be at the old port (drop off of tender boats)</li> <li>Lunch on-board and local wine</li> </ul> <strong>Not Included: </strong> <ul> <li>Gratuities</li> <li>Personal expenses</li> </ul> Santorini: Santorini Highlights - 4 hours Meet your local guide and driver as you disembark your ship this morning for a half day exploring Santorini. Drive to Fira, where you will visit the Archaeological Museum which exhibits many items from excavations across the island such as vases from the 5th century BC and items from the Minoan age. After a short stroll in Fira, you may like to drive north to Oia, the most picturesque little town of the island, with white-washed houses, windmills and caves, perched on the very edge of the cliff.<br /> <br /> A visit to Domain Sigalas or Boutari Wines will convince you that this small island, with some the oldest vineyards in the world, produces truly unique white wines. Or if you are an art lover you may like to visit the unique experience that is the Art Space, an art gallery set within caves of pumice rock. These carved chambers are those of a century old winery that is still in production now. The old winery production machines can be viewed alongside contemporary art from around the globe followed by a tasting of the wine produced there if you wish.<br /> <br /> <strong>Highlights: </strong> <ul> <li>Drive to Fira to visit the Archaeological Museum before heading to Oia, the most picturesque little town on the island</li> <li>Try some of the white wine produced on the island from some of the oldest vineyards in the world</li> </ul> <strong>Tour Duration:</strong> 4 hours<br /> <br /> <strong>Tour can Operate:</strong> Morning / Afternoon<br /> <br /> <strong>Wheelchair Accessible:</strong> Please enquire for more information<br /> <br /> <strong>Physical Activity Level:</strong> Light<br /> <br /> <strong>Inclusions:</strong><br /> •    Private transport by luxury car or minivan<br /> •    An expert local guide for 4 hours<br /> •    Entrance fees to all sights and museums<br /> •    All taxes<br /> <br /> <strong>Exclusions:</strong><br /> •    All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs<br /> •    Gratuities Santorini's ancient Akrotiri excavation & Oia Tour approx 4 hours <span>Begin with a scenic drive through the plains of Santorini to the picturesque <strong><em>village of Oia</em></strong>, the crowning glory of tranquillity, boasting the most superb views of the caldera.</span><span> Stroll around the narrow streets and explore its quaint boutiques of </span><span>local art, paintings and semi-precious jewellery</span><span>. </span><br /> <span><span>Continue with a visit to </span></span><strong><em><span><span>Akrotiri</span></span></em></strong><span><span> and marvel at the “Minoan" excavations that have revealed complexes of multi-level buildings, streets and squares, with remains of walls standing as high as 8 meters, all entombed in the solidified ash of the famous eruption of Thera. </span></span><br /> <span><span>Our final stop is to Fira, the capital, perched on the edge of an impressive cliff 260m high, where you will have free time to explore on your own. Many of its beautiful buildings blue domed churches and sun-bathed veranda were constructed during the Venetian invasion and offer stunning views over the submerged volcano</span></span> Santorini cooking and wine tasting class approx. 4 hours <span>Today you will be closer to the genuine tastes of Santorini through a farm to table experience. You will be offered fresh vegetables and herbs as well as other precious ingredients from local farmers, so as to cook them under the guidance of an experienced chef. This is an interactive course, where each participant is offered a glass of wine from Artemis Karamolegos Winery. Afterwards, you will enjoy the fruits of your labour at the picturesque veranda of the restaurants main area while enjoying 2 more wines while the presentation of the wines is given from experienced sommeliers. Upon completion of the tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel/ship.</span> Megalochori village & the lost Atlantis Museum approx. 4 hours <span><span>Our tour begins with a visit at Megalochori village and you will walk through the </span></span><span><span>traditional vineyards, the lava-stoned streets, the renovated and abandoned houses after the earthquake of 1956, and the colorful houses. </span></span><span><span>Then we will continue with the Symposium experience. </span></span><span><span>In ancient Greece, the symposium was a ritualized drinking event, when drinking for pleasure was accompanied by music, dancing, recitals, or conversation. Similarly, we will be accompanied by live Lyre playing, mythological and historical wine narration.</span></span><span><span> Afterwards, e</span></span><span><span>mbark on a journey in Greek History, Mythology, Philosophy and Geology! Discover all the evidence that connects Plato’s Lost Atlantis myth with the volcano eruption of the island. Follow Plato’s Journey that inspired him to write about the ideal city through an interactive fresco. View a Holographic representation of the geological evolution of Santorini Island from the prehistoric ages until today. Re-live, with all your senses, the earthquake, the tsunami, and the volcanic eruption that led to the destruction of Atlantis in a 9D experience.</span></span> Santorini Walking food tour approx. 4 hours <span><span>Join us on a walking tour through Fira and neighboring Firostefani for a journey through senses - breathtaking views, hidden alleyways, local eateries - all of that while exploring the secrets of Greek cuisine and filling your belly!</span></span><br /> <span><span>The tour starts in Firostefani and ends in Fira, making a minimum of 7 stops to cover different aspects of Greek and local Santorini cuisine - from Greek coffee to local delicacies, to classic mezes and delicious deserts. Greek cuisine is not imaginable without olives and olive oil, as well as wine and ouzo. We will taste all this and much more.</span></span> <span><span>The goal of the tour is to introduce guests to the Greek cuisine in a fun and informative manner from the local standpoint, showcasing not only the flavors & ingredients of Mediterranean cuisine, but also the beauty of Santorini as a world-famous destination. </span></span> Santorini sunset cruise approx. 5 hours <span>Enjoy sailing around the crystal-clear blue waters of Santorini. First, we will visit the Red and White beaches, both unique and named after the colour of the volcanic pebbles of which they are comprised. Next, we will sail past Akrotiri and into the Caldera. Sail</span><span> close the volcanic island of Thirassia is the Hot Springs, where you will enjoy swimming and a spa-like mud bath in the warm waters. </span><span>We continue to Palea Kameni island for some time for swimming and snorkelling. A delicious barbeque dinner will be prepared and served on board while the magical sunset appears on the horizon.</span> Santorini caldera hiking trail OIa to Fira approx. 4 hours <span>This is the most scenic hike on the island of Santorini, starting from the capital city of the island, Fira, you will be led to Oia walking through the villages of Firostefani and Imerovigli. The greater part of the path is on the rim of the Caldera. Following this path affords a gorgeous view to the famous volcano and the Aegean Sea and also allows visitors to see the four most important villages of the island.</span>	07/27/2023 07:30 AM	07/27/2023 09:30 PM
Kusadasi (Ephesus) Optional Private Excursions Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience! Kusadasi Port - The Glories of Ephesus (Full Day Tour) <div align="center"> <p><span><strong>PORT: KUSADASI<br /> GLORIES OF EPHESUS <br /> Full-Day Tour</strong></span></p> <p><br /> <span>Arrive in Kusadasi, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for your full- day tour in Ephesus.</span></p> <p><span>First, you will visit the <strong>House of Virgin Mary</strong>, where the Virgin is said to have lived the last years of her life. The building was rediscovered in the late 19th century by Lazartis from Smyrna based on the vision of a German nun. The site is officially declared a shrine of the Roman Catholic Church and visited by Pope Paul VI in 1967, Pope John Paul II in 1979 and Pope Benedict XVI in 2007.</span></p> <p><span>Then, you will drive to <strong>Ephesus</strong>, enter and view the <strong>Odeon Theatre</strong>, where state affairs and concerts were held. Walk down the marble walkway and visit the Hadrian Temple. It was dedicated in 118 AD to Hadrian, Artemis, and the people of Ephesus but greatly reconstructed in the 4th century. This impressive Corinthian style temple has beautiful reliefs on the porch. According to the belief of Ephesians, the Medusa head on the porch, would protect the city from its enemies.</span></p> <p><span>A special visit will be made to the spectacular <strong>Terrace Houses (Villas)</strong> located on top of the hill within the Ephesus. They have a fantastic view of the entire city of Ephesus. They were inhabited by wealthy Ephesians, and are finely decorated with incredible examples of mosaics and frescos. The Terrace Houses were brought to light in excavations carried out since the 1980s by a team of Austrian archeologists. Along with those in Pompeii, they constitute some of the most vivid examples of Roman domestic architecture to survive to the present.<br /> <br /> Next, you will proceed to the<strong> Celsus Library</strong>, The library is the best preserved structure of its kind. The inscription on the side of the building’s front staircase says that the library was build by Julius, in his father’s honor, after his death. His father, Celsus was the Roman governor of Asia Minor early in the 2nd century AD. His tomb is in the library as well.</span></p> <p><span>Next, visit the <strong>Great Theatre</strong>, dating back to the Hellenistic period. In the 1st century AD it was successfully reconstructed and expanded by the Romans until it reached the seating capacity of 25,000. This is also the place where it is believed that St.Paul preached. It is still used for performances today.</span></p> <p><span><strong>Lunch </strong>recommended at a local restaurant.</span></p> <div><span><span><span>Last, you will visit the <strong>Ephesus Museum</strong> is an </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Archaeological_museum" title="Archaeological museum"><span>archaeological museum</span></a><span> in </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sel%C3%A7uk" title="Selçuk"><span>Selcuk</span></a><span>. It houses finds from the nearby </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ephesus" title="Ephesus"><span>Ephesus</span></a><span> excavation site and other ancient sites in the region. Its best-known exhibit is the statue of </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Artemis" title="Artemis"><span>Artemis</span></a><span> retrieved from the T</span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Temple_of_Artemis" title="Temple of Artemis"><span>emple of the goddess</span></a><span> in Ephesus. Highlights include the fresco of Socrates, statues and heads of Eros, crosses, coins and the works of the 1<sup>st</sup> century AD. </span></span></span><br /> <br /> <span>At the end of your day, you will return to Kusadasi and have some time for shopping in town before you embark your ship.</span></div> <p></p> <div align="left"> <p><span><u><strong>Includes:</strong></u><br /> • 1 full- day of private sightseeing in Ephesus<br /> • Licensed professional guide in English Language<br /> • Air- conditioned luxury vehicle with a professional driver<br /> • Entrance fees to museums and sites according to the above itinerary<br /> • Bottled water provided throughout the tour<br /> • Welcome package<br /> • VAT tax</span></p> <p><span><u><strong>Not Included:</strong></u><br /> • Gratuities to guide and driver<br /> • Personal expenses of the guests<br /> • Meals that are not indicated on the itinerary<br /> • Recommended lunch</span></p> </div> </div> <!-- Facebook Badge START --> <div><a href="https://www.facebook.com/seasongtours" target="_TOP" title="Sea Song Tours"><!-- Facebook Badge END --></a></div> Kusadasi Port - A Taste of Ephesus- (Half day tour) <div align="center"> <p><span><strong>PORT: KUSADASI<br /> A TASTE OF EPHESUS<br /> Half- Day Tour</strong></span></p> <p><span>Arrive in Kusadasi, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for your half- day of private sightseeing in Ephesus.</span></p> <p><span>First, you will drive to <strong>Ephesus</strong>, enter and view the<strong> Odeon Theatre</strong>, where state affairs and concerts were held. Walk down the marble walkway and visit the<strong> Hadrian Temple</strong>. It was dedicated in 118 AD to Hadrian, Artemis, and the people of Ephesus but greatly reconstructed in the 4th century. This impressive Corinthian style temple has beautiful reliefs on the porch. According to the belief of Ephesians, the Medusa head on the porch, would protect the city from its enemies.<br /> <br /> A special visit will be made to the spectacular <strong>Terrace Houses (Villas)</strong> located on top of the hill within the Ephesus. They have a fantastic view of the entire city of Ephesus. They were inhabited by wealthy Ephesians, and are finely decorated with incredible examples of mosaics and frescos. The Terrace Houses were brought to light in excavations carried out since the 1980s by a team of Austrian archeologists. Along with those in Pompeii, they constitute some of the most vivid examples of Roman domestic architecture to survive to the present.<br /> <br /> Next, you will proceed to the <strong>Celsus Library</strong>, The library is the best preserved structure of its kind. The inscription on the side of the building’s front staircase says that the library was build by Julius, in his father’s honor, after his death. His father, Celsus was the Roman governor of Asia Minor early in the 2nd century AD. His tomb is in the library as well.<br /> Last, visit the <strong>Great Theatre</strong>, dating back to the Hellenistic period. In the 1st century AD it was successfully reconstructed and expanded by the Romans until it reached the seating capacity of 25,000. This is also the place where it is believed that St.Paul preached. It is still used for performances today.</span></p> <p><span>At the end of your day, you will return to Kusadasi and have some time for shopping in town before your embark your ship.</span></p> <p></p> <p><span><u><strong>Includes:</strong></u><br /> - 1 half-day of private sightseeing in Ephesus<br /> - Licensed professional guide in English language<br /> - Entrance fees to museums and sites according to the above itinerary<br /> - Private Air-conditioned VIP vehicle with professional driver<br /> - Welcome Package<br /> - Bottled water provided throughout the tours<br /> -  VAT taxes</span></p> <p><span><u><strong>Not included:</strong></u><br /> - Gratuities to guide and driver<br /> - Personal expenses of the guests<br /> - Meals that are not indicated on the itinerary</span></p> </div> <!-- Facebook Badge START --> <div><a href="https://www.facebook.com/seasongtours" target="_TOP" title="Sea Song Tours"><!-- Facebook Badge END --></a></div> Kusadasi Port - Ephesus & Virgin Mary House - (Half Day Tour) <p><span><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><strong>PORT: KUSADASI </strong></font></span></p> <p><span><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><strong>EPHESUS & VIRGIN MARY HOUSE </strong></font></span></p> <p><span><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><strong>Half-Day Tour</strong></font></span></p> <p><span><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Arrive in Kusadasi, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for your half- day tour in Ephesus. </font></span></p> <p><span><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">First, you will visit the <strong>House of Virgin Mary</strong>, where the Virgin is said to have lived the last years of her life. The building was rediscovered in the late 19th century by Lazartis from Smyrna based on the vision of a German nun. The site is officially declared a shrine of the Roman Catholic Church and visited by Pope Paul VI in 1967, Pope John Paul II in 1979 and Pope Benedict XVI in 2007. </font></span></p> <p><span><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Then, you will drive to <strong>Ephesus</strong>, enter and view the <strong>Odeon Theatre</strong>, where state affairs and concerts were held. Walk down the marble walkway and visit the <strong>Hadrian Temple</strong>. It was dedicated in 118 AD to Hadrian, Artemis, and the people of Ephesus but greatly reconstructed in the 4th century. This impressive Corinthian style temple has beautiful reliefs on the porch. According to the belief of Ephesians, the Medusa head on the porch, would protect the city from its enemies. </font></span></p> <p><span><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Next, you will proceed to the <strong>Celsus Library</strong>, The library is the best preserved structure of its kind. The inscription on the side of the building’s front staircase says that the library was build by Julius, in his father’s honour, after his death. His father, Celsus was the Roman governor of Asia Minor early in the 2nd century AD. His tomb is in the library as well. </font></span></p> <p><span><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Next, visit the <strong>Great Theatre</strong>, dating back to the Hellenistic period. In the 1st century AD it was successfully reconstructed and expanded by the Romans until it reached the seating capacity of 25,000. This is also the place where it is believed that St.Paul preached. It is still used for performances today. </font></span></p> <p><span><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">At the end of your day, you will return to Kusadasi and have some time for shopping in town before you embark your ship.</font></span></p> <p></p> <p><span><u><strong><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Includes: </font></strong></u></span></p> <ul> <li><span><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">1 half-day of private sightseeing in Ephesus</font></span></li> <li><span><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Licensed professional guide in English Language </font></span></li> <li><span><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Air- conditioned luxury vehicle with a professional driver </font></span></li> <li><span><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Entrance fees to museums and sites according to the above itinerary </font></span></li> <li><span><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Bottled water provided throughout the tour </font></span></li> <li><span><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Welcome package </font></span></li> <li><span><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">VAT tax </font></span></li> </ul> <p><span><u><strong><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Not Included: </font></strong></u></span></p> <ul> <li><span><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Gratuities to guide and driver</font></span></li> <li><span><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Personal expenses of the guests </font></span></li> <li><span><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Meals that are not indicated on the itinerary </font></span></li> </ul> Kusadasi: Ancient Ephesus Tour - 7 hours <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">An English speaking lecturer/guide will meet the guests at the exit of the cruise pier in KUSADASI. </font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">After a short drive to Ephesus, the guests experience their private tour of this fascinating historical site. First, a visit will be made to the remarkable Greco-Roman archeological city of Ancient Ephesus, that flourished as a prominent cultural city and seaport between 600 BC and 500 AD. </font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">The walking tour will begin along the Royal Road also known as the Arcadian Way, the 4th century white marble chariot thoroughfare whose most striking sight today is the two-story Library of Celsus. Uniquely beautiful, the Library once housed 12,000 scrolls of papyrus manuscripts making it the second largest library in the ancient world after the one in Alexandria, Egypt. The walk along the Royal Road also takes the visitors past the remains of some of the ancient city’s major civic buildings and temples as you move toward the Ephesus Theater from which St. Paul once preached to the Pagan Ephesians. The theater, seating 25,000 has exceptional acoustics and is still in use today for concerts and theatrical performances in summertime. </font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Then move to see the ongoing excavations of the Greco-Roman places-the “Elite Yamac Homes of Antiquity” (Terrace Houses) with their magnificent mosaics and frescoes. </font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">From here, the guests will proceed to the small, but distinguished and rightly famous Ephesus Museum with unique examples of the very best Greco-Roman sculpture in the world, and with an exciting new display of Medical instruments from that era. </font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Finally, drive up the mountainside to visit to the so-called House of the Virgin Mary, a lovely chapel set in the hills behind Ephesus, said by some to be the last home of the Virgin Mary, where St. Paul took her for her safety away from the Pagan Ephesians. </font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">At the end of the tour, you will be transferred to your hotel or to your cruise ship. </font></p> <p></p> <p><strong><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Added Value: </font></strong></p> <font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Great introduction to Greco-Roman city of Ephesus' history and culture</font> <p></p> <font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">The tour covers the main highlights of the ancient city</font> <p></p> <strong><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Tour Duration : 6-7 hours</font></strong> <p></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Tour can operate:</strong> Starting mornings</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Wheelchair Accessible:</strong> Partial</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Physical Activity Level: </strong>High</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Included: </strong>Transportation by a cheaffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Not Included:</strong> Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses</font></p> Kusadasi: Priene Day Tour - 7 hours <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">The guests will be met by a lecturer/guide at the exit of the pier in KUSADASI and drive south to visit Priene. </font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">This ancient city is not especially large, but has an unusual intimacy and charm, in part because so many historical private houses have survived to this day. All the monuments you will see, date from the Hellenistic period, and all of them are aligned according to a strict grid-plan of the kind developed by Hippodamos, a native of neighboring Miletus. The monuments include the Temple of Zeus, a council chamber, and a small amphi-theatre. Yet Priene’s greatest treasure is its Temple of Athena, which was considered the masterpiece of the architect Pytheos who also designed the Mausoleum at Halicarnassos (Bodrum) known to be one of the Seven Wonders of the World. </font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">After exploring Priene, the guests will cross the broad flood-plain of the river Maeander to continue to Miletus. This was once a major port but silt carried down by the River Meander blocked its harbor centuries ago. The ancient harbor is now several miles from the sea. The town is laid out according to a grid-plan designed by Hippodamos, which centers on three spacious agoras (marketplaces) today. The most striking features of the site today are the Baths of Faustina and the massive Roman Theatre.<br /> <br /> A paved Sacred Way leads from Miletus to Dydima, not a classic town but rather a sacred precinct centering on a colossal Temple of Apollo surrounded by a double colonnade of no less than 108 huge columns. Work on the temple continued for 500 years, but its design was so ambitious that, when work was abandoned in the 4th C. AD, it was still unfinished. Even unfinished and in ruins, the temple at Dydima remains to be one of the most awe-inspiring antique monuments to be found anywhere around the Eastern Mediterranean. </font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">At the end of the tour, the guests will be escorted back to their hotel or to the pier in KUSADASI. </font></p> <p></p> <p><strong><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Added Value: </font></strong></p> <font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">The tour covers the main highlights of Priene, Miletus and Didyma</font> <p></p> <font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Tour Duration </strong>: 7 hours</font> <p></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Tour can operate:</strong> Starting mornings</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Wheelchair Accessible: </strong>No</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Physical Activity Level:</strong> Moderate</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Included: </strong>Transportation by a chaeffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Not Included:</strong> Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses</font></p> <p></p> Kusadasi: The Greco-Roman City of Ephesus & the Wine-making Village of Sirince - 7 hours <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">At 8:30 am, an English speaking private lecturer/guide will meet and greet you outside the Bonded Area of the Kusadasi cruise pier. You will then be escorted to your chauffeur driven private deluxe air-conditioned vehicle, for a comfortable ride of about half an hour to the remarkable Greco-Roman archaeological site of Ancient Ephesus. Dating back to the 11th century B.C., it has been painstakingly excavated and restored and is one of the world’s most fascinating sites of antiquity. Ephesus flourished as a prominent city and seaport between 600 B.C. and 500 A.D. We will begin our private walking tour along Royal Road also known as the Arcadian Way, a 4th century white marble chariot thoroughfare whose most striking sight is the two-story Library of Celsus.</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Uniquely beautiful, with its restored facade now the famed symbol of Ephesus, the Library once housed 12,000 scrolls of papyrus manuscripts making it the 2nd largest in the ancient world after the library in Alexandria, Egypt. Your walk along the Royal Road will also take you past the remains of some of the ancient city’s major civic buildings and temples as you move toward the Ephesus Theater from which St. Paul once preached to the Ephesians. The theater, seating 25,000 has exceptional acoustics and is still in use today for concerts and theatrical performances.</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">You will also visit the ongoing excavations of the Greco Roman PALACES the ''ELITE YAMAC HOMES OF ANTIQUITY'' (Terrace Houses) with their magnificent mosaics and frescoes being restored by archeologists as you visit the site. </font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Next visit will be to the old Greco-Turkish Village of SIRINCE, located approximately 18 miles away from the Kusadasi pier. The town itself houses about hundreds of old local Greek homes which have been superbly renovated and opened to the public.. The town also houses an authentic local market where different agricultural products are sold. </font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Following lunch (at your own cost) at the celebrated local Bizim Ev (meaning “Our House”) Restaurant in Sirince, you will stop by the famous wine cellar of this village, to be welcomed by the owner, and will taste his white or red wines, produced in the same style as in the old days from grapes at the vast vineyards of the Aegean Region.</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">You will then be returned to Kusadasi where you may explore or shop at the charming local marketplace, while your guide will escort and assist you until you wish to return to the pier to board your ship by 4 pm.</font></p> <p></p> <p><strong><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Added Value: </font></strong></p> <font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Great introduction to Ephesus and Sirince</font> <p></p> <font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">*The tour covers Ephesus and the wine-making village of Sirince</font> <p></p> <font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Tour Duration </strong>: 7 hours</font> <p></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Tour can operate:</strong> Starting mornings</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Wheelchair Accessible</strong>: No</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Physical Activity Level</strong>: Moderate</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Included: </strong>Transportation by a chauffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Not Included:</strong> Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses</font></p> <p></p> Ephesus & Sirince Full Day Tour - 8 hours <span><span><strong>Highlights/Description:</strong></span></span> <ul> <li><span><span>Ancient Ephesus</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Sirince</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Home-style lunch in a local village</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Visit to a wine house</span></span></li> </ul> <span><span> <br /> Your English-speaking guide will meet you at the Kusadasi cruise pier for your tour in Ephesus.<br />  <br /> You will proceed to the remarkable Greco-Roman site of Ancient Ephesus. Dating back to the 11th century B.C., it has been excavated and restored since 1870s. It is one of the world’s most fascinating sites of antiquity. Ephesus flourished as a prominent city and seaport between 600 B.C. and 500 A.D. We will start our private walking tour through Royal Road also known as the Arcadian Way, 4th century white marble chariot road that leads to the most striking building, which is the two-storey Library of Celsus.<br />  <br /> Beautifully restored with its restored facade now the famed symbol of Ephesus, The Library once housed 12,000 scrolls of papyrus and parchment manuscripts, making it the 2nd largest in the ancient world after the library in Alexandria in Egypt. Ephesus Theater, seating 25,000 has exceptional acoustics and is still in use today for concerts and theatrical performances.<br />  <br /> Your tour will continue in Sirince. This pretty old Orthodox village was once Cirkince ("ugly"). Indeed its habitants gave this name on purpose as they did not want to be bothered by foreigners to share the beauty of their village.<br />  <br /> Still after years, visitors understood that the village was not ugly at all and called it Sirince ("pretty"). As the village is located on the top of a mountain, anyone will enjoy the impressive wine yards' and peach trees' views on his way. Today the village is a perfect synthesis of Turk-Greek culture as of the 1920's: after the Independence War, people exchange between Greek and Turks has occurred and all those typical Greek houses, though they kept their original outside characteristics, have received the local layout inside.<br />  <br /> After a wonderful home-style lunch at a local restaurant, your guide will show you the village. You will see local women in the authentic narrow streets of the village, selling handcrafts of all kinds, olive oil and handmade soaps. The village is also famous with its wine and you have the opportunity to visit a wine house. You can taste and buy several kinds of wines, from apple to strawberry.<br />  <br /> At the end of your tour, you will be transferred back to the cruise pier.<br />  <br /> <strong>Tour Duration: </strong>8 Hours<br /> <strong>Tour can operate:</strong> Morning<br /> <strong>Wheelchair Accessible:</strong> No<br /> <strong>Physical Activity Level:</strong> Moderate to Heavy<br /> <br /> <strong>Inclusions:</strong></span></span> <ul> <li><span><span>Officially licensed, private guide</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Transfers to/from port in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Parking fees and entrance fees of the sites/museums stated in the tour program</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Bottled water</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Welcome package</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Applicable taxes</span></span></li> </ul> <span><span><strong>Not Included: </strong></span></span> <ul> <li><span><span>Meals, unless otherwise noted</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Gratuities</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Personal expenses</span></span></li> </ul> Ephesus Full Day Tour - 8 hours <span><span><strong>Highlights/Description:</strong></span></span> <ul> <li><span><span>Ancient Ephesus</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Library of Celsus</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Excavations of Terrace Houses</span></span></li> <li><span><span>House of the Virgin Mary</span></span></li> </ul> <span><span> <br /> Your English speaking guide will meet you at the Kusadasi cruise pier for your tour in Ephesus.<br />  <br /> You will proceed to the remarkable Greco-Roman site of Ancient Ephesus. Dating back to the 11th century B.C., it has been excavated and restored since 1870s. It is one of the world’s most fascinating sites of antiquity. Ephesus flourished as a prominent city and seaport between 600 B.C. and 500 A.D. We will start our private walking tour through Royal Road also known as the Arcadian Way, 4th century white marble chariot road that leads to the most striking building, which is the two-storey Library of Celsus.<br />  <br /> Beautifully restored with its restored facade now the famed symbol of Ephesus, The Library once housed 12,000 scrolls of papyrus and parchment manuscripts, making it the 2nd largest in the ancient world after the library in Alexandria in Egypt. Ephesus Theater, seating 25,000 has exceptional acoustics and is still in use today for concerts and theatrical performances.<br />  <br /> You will also visit the ongoing excavations of the Greco Roman Houses of Ephesian Aristocrats (known as Terrace Houses) with their magnificent mosaics and frescoes being restored by archeologists as you visit the site.<br />  <br /> In addition to the historic monuments, your excursion will also include a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary, a lovely little chapel set in the hills behind Ephesus believed to be Virgin Mary’s last home.<br />  <br /> At the end of your tour, you will be transferred back to the cruise pier.<br />  <br /> <strong>Tour Duration: </strong>8 Hours<br /> <strong>Tour can operate:</strong> Morning<br /> <strong>Wheelchair Accessible:</strong> No<br /> <strong>Physical Activity Level:</strong> Moderate to Heavy<br /> <br /> <strong>Inclusions:</strong></span></span> <ul> <li><span><span>Officially licensed, private guide</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Transfers to/from port in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Parking fees and entrance fees of the sites/museums stated in the tour program</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Bottled water</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Welcome package</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Applicable taxes</span></span></li> </ul> <span><span><strong>Not Included: </strong></span></span> <ul> <li><span><span>Meals, unless otherwise noted</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Gratuities</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Personal expenses</span></span></li> </ul> Ephesus Half Day Tour - 4 hours <span><span><strong>Highlights/Description:</strong></span></span> <ul> <li><span><span>Ancient Ephesus</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Library of Celsus</span></span></li> <li><span><span>The Library</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Ephesus Theatre</span></span></li> </ul> <span><span> <br /> Your English speaking guide will meet you at the Kusadasi cruise pier for your tour in Ephesus.<br />  <br /> You will proceed to the remarkable Greco-Roman site of Ancient Ephesus. Dating back to the 11th century B.C., it has been excavated and restored since 1870s. It is one of the world’s most fascinating sites of antiquity. Ephesus flourished as a prominent city and seaport between 600 B.C. and 500 A.D. We will start our private walking tour through Royal Road also known as the Arcadian Way, 4th century white marble chariot road that leads to the most striking building, which is the two-storey Library of Celsus.<br />  <br /> Beautifully restored with its restored facade now the famed symbol of Ephesus, The Library once housed 12,000 scrolls of papyrus and parchment manuscripts, making it the 2nd largest in the ancient world after the library in Alexandria in Egypt. Ephesus Theater, seating 25,000 has exceptional acoustics and is still in use today for concerts and theatrical performances.<br />  <br /> At the end of your tour, you will be transferred back to the cruise pier.<br />  <br /> <strong>Tour Duration: </strong>4 Hours<br /> <strong>Tour can operate:</strong> Morning<br /> <strong>Wheelchair Accessible:</strong> No<br /> <strong>Physical Activity Level:</strong> Moderate to Heavy<br /> <br /> <strong>Inclusions:</strong></span></span> <ul> <li><span><span>Officially licensed, private guide</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Transfers to/from port in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Parking fees and entrance fees of the sites/museums stated in the tour program</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Bottled water</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Welcome package</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Applicable taxes</span></span></li> </ul> <span><span><strong>Not Included: </strong></span></span> <ul> <li><span><span>Meals, unless otherwise noted</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Gratuities</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Personal expenses</span></span></li> </ul> Kusadasi Port - Three Ancient Cities; Didyma, Miletus & Priene (Full Day Tour) <div><span><strong><span>SHORE EXCURSIONS<br /> KUSADASI<br /> THREE ANCIENT CITIES</span></strong></span><br />  </div> <span><span>Arrive in Kusadasi,you will meet your professional guide at the port and drive to three ancient cities.<br />  <br /> Your first stop will be <strong>Priene</strong>. The ancient harbor city of Priene probably changed its location when the silt of the Meander River threatened to bury it. Now it is nearly 16 km away from the sea. The original place of the city has never been found but it was probably a peninsula with two harbors. Priene was laid out on a Hippodamian system of grid plan at the foot of a spectacular cliff on mount Mycale and contained many famous examples of Hellenistic art and architecture.All the streets intersect at the right angles.<br />  <br /> Next, visit <strong>Miletus</strong><span> an ancient city located near the present Akkoy at the mouth of the Buyuk Menderes (Meander) River, owed its importance to its position on trade routes. It was one of the largest cities in Anatolia with a population of between 80,000 and 100,000. Highly prosperous, it founded many colonies and was the home of the 6C BC philosophers Anaximander, Anaximenes, and Thales, the town planner Hippodamus and architect Isidorus. Miletus seems to have produced geniuses the way Aphrodisias produced sculptors.</span><br />  <br /> <strong>Lunch</strong><u> suggested</u> at local restaurant.<br /> <br /> Last, you will visit <strong>Didyma</strong>. The word Didyma meant "twins" and was associated by some as being the meeting place of Zeus and Leto to have their twins Apollo and Artemis. Didyma was famed as a prophecy center dedicated to Apollo which served a similar purpose as the Delphi of Anatolia. It was not a city but a sanctuary linked to Miletus by Milesians with a 19 km/12 m sacred road. However, this road may not have been constructed until the end of the 1C AD. In addition to pilgrimages made by sea, some festivals of drama, music and sports were held there every four years.<br />  <br /> At the end of your tour, you can return to Kusadasi.<br />  <br trebuchet="" /> <strong trebuchet=""><u>OUR PACKAGE RATE INCLUDES </u></strong></span></span> <ul trebuchet=""> <li><span><span>1 full day of sightseeing in a deluxe air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver in Three Ancient Cities.</span></span></li> <li><span><span><span>Private chauffeur driven a/c deluxe vehicle throughout the program.</span></span></span></li> <li><span><span>Officially licensed, English speaking guide throughout the tour program.</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Entrance fees to all museums, parks, and historic sites as marked on the itinerary.</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Bottled water provided throughout the tour.</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Welcome Package</span></span></li> <li><span><span>VAT taxes.</span></span></li> </ul> <span><span><strong trebuchet=""><u>OUR  PACKAGE RATE EXCLUDES </u></strong></span></span> <ul trebuchet=""> <li><span><span>Gratuities to the Guide & Driver</span></span> <ul> <li><span><span>At the discretion of the guests</span></span></li> </ul> </li> <li><span><span>Personal expenses of the guests</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Suggested lunch</span></span></li> </ul> Kusadasi Port - Biblical Tour of Ephesus ( Full Day tour) <div><span><span><span><span>Arrive in Kusadasi ,</span></span><span><span>you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for private sightseeing.</span></span><br /> <strong><span> </span></strong><br /> <span>First, you will visit the <strong>House of Virgin Mary</strong>, where the Virgin is said to have lived the last years of her life. The building was rediscovered in the late 19<sup>th</sup> century by Lazartis from Smyrna based on the vision of a German nun.  The site is officially declared a shrine of the Roman Catholic Church and visited by Pope Paul VI in 1967, Pope John Paul II in 1979 and Pope Benedict XVI in 2007.</span><br />  <br /> <span>Then, visit <strong>Ephesus<em>,</em></strong> famous throughout the ancient world for its Temple of Artemis.  You will first visit Odeon Theatre where the state affairs used to be held. Then, view The <strong>Temple of Hadrian</strong></span> is one of the main attractions at <a href="http://www.sacred-destinations.com/turkey/ephesus.htm"><span><span>Ephesus</span></span></a>, with a beautiful arch on the front facade and interesting reliefs of Medusa. According to the belief of Ephesians, the Medusa head on the porch, would protect the city from its enemies.<br />   <br /> <span><span>Next, you will visit the newly excavated spectacular </span></span><strong><span><span>The Terrace Houses</span></span> </strong><span><span>on the Curetes street belonged to the rich people of Ephesus. Many of them were three-storied and had peristyles surrounded by rooms without windows but included frescoes and mosaics of mythological scenes. Some of the frescoes were scenes from the comedies of Menander and the tragedies of Euripides. They were luxuriously furnished private houses with fountains and central heating. Between the street and houses was a portico with a mosaic floor, behind which were shops.</span></span><br />  <br /> <span>Proceed to the <strong>Celsus Library</strong></span> is a Roman mausoleum and library built in the early 2nd century AD. The Library of Celsus was commissioned by the Julius as a mausoleum for his father, Roman governor of the Asian Provinces. It is one of the most beautifully reconstructed buildings in <a href="http://www.sacred-destinations.com/turkey/ephesus.htm"><span><span>Ephesus</span></span></a>, it has become an icon of the ancient city.<br /> <br /> <strong><span>The Great Theatre</span></strong><em>, </em>dates back to the Hellenistic period. It <span><span>is one of the most impressive buildings in Ephesus which </span></span><span>has the capacity of 25,000 seats. The theatre was used for concerts, plays and religious, political and philosophical discussions and for gladiator and animal fights. </span><strong><span>Marble Road</span></strong><span>,</span> <span>runs between the Library of Celsus and the theater and is a part of the sacred  walk way.  </span><br />  <br /> <span>Last, visit the <strong>Church of Mary</strong></span> that is a church of great historical significance located in <span><a href="http://www.sacred-destinations.com/turkey/ephesus.htm"><span><span>Ephesus</span></span></a>. It is also known as the <strong><span>Double Church</span></strong><strong>,</strong> because it is thought one aisle was dedicated to the Virgin and the other to St. John, and the <strong><span>Council Church</span></strong> because the Council of Ephesus is believed to have been held here.</span><br /> <br /> <strong><span>Lunch</span></strong><span> <u>recommended</u> at a local restaurant. </span><br /> <br /> <span>Next, you will see the <strong>Basilica of St. John</strong>,where John and the Virgin Mary went between 42 and 48 AD and lived. Three hundred years after the death of Saint John</span>, a small chapel on the Ayasuluk Hill was constructed over his grave in the 4<sup>th</sup> century AD. This church was replaced in the 6<sup>th</sup> century AD by a huge basilica built by the Emperor Justinian, the impressive ruins of which are still visible.<br />  <br /> <span>Last, visit The <strong>Temple of Artemis</strong> also known less precisely as Temple of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diana_(mythology)" title="Diana (mythology)"><span>Diana</span></a></span>, was a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greek_temple" title="Greek temple"><span>Greek temple</span></a> dedicated to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Artemis" title="Artemis"><span>Artemis</span></a> completed around 550 BC at <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ephesus" title="Ephesus"><span>Ephesus</span></a>. The monument was one of the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seven_Wonders_of_the_Ancient_World" title="Seven Wonders of the Ancient World"><span>Seven Wonders of the Ancient World</span></a>.<br />  <br /> <span>At the end of your tour, you can return to Kusadasi for some shopping in town or visit one of the carpet villages along the way before embarking the ship.  If you are not interested in shopping, please advise your guide that you would like to return directly to the ship.</span> <br />  <span> </span><br trebuchet="" /> <font color="#0d0d0d"><b><u>Inclusions:</u></b></font></span></span></div> <ul trebuchet=""> <li><span><span><span>1 full day of sightseeing in a deluxe air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver in Ephesus</span></span></span></li> <li><span><span><span><span><span>Private chauffeur driven a/c deluxe vehicle throughout the program.</span></span></span></span></span></li> <li><span><span><span>Officially license, English speaking guide throughout the tour program.</span></span></span></li> <li><span><span><span>Entrance fees to all museums, parks, and historic sites as marked on the itinerary.</span></span></span></li> <li><span><span><span>Bottled water provided throughout the tour. </span></span></span></li> <li><span><span><span>Welcome Package</span></span></span></li> <li><span><span><span>VAT taxes.</span></span></span></li> </ul> <div><span><span><font color="#0d0d0d"><b><u>Exclusions: </u></b></font></span></span></div> <ul trebuchet=""> <li><span><span><span>Gratuities to the Guide & Driver</span></span></span> <ul> <li><span><span><span>At the discretion of the guests</span></span></span></li> </ul> </li> <li><span><span><span>Personal expenses of the guests</span></span></span></li> <li><span><span><span>Recommended lunch</span></span></span></li> </ul> <div><span><span> </span></span></div> Kusadasi Port - Ephesus & Didyma & Miletus (Full Day Tour) <p><span><span>Arrive in Kusadasi, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for private full day sightseeing. <br /> <br /> First, visit <strong>Ephesus,</strong> famous throughout the ancient world for its Temple of Artemis.  You will first visit Odeon Theatre where the state affairs used to be held. Then, view The <strong>Temple of Hadrian</strong> is one of the main attractions at <a href="http://www.sacred-destinations.com/turkey/ephesus.htm"><span>Ephesus</span></a>, with a beautiful arch on the front facade and interesting reliefs of Medusa. According to the belief of Ephesians, the Medusa head on the porch, would protect the city from its enemies.<br />  <br /> <span>Next, you will visit the newly excavated spectacular </span><strong><span>The Terrace Houses</span> </strong><span>on the Curetes street belonged to the rich people of Ephesus. Many of them were three-storied and had peristyles surrounded by rooms without windows but included frescoes and mosaics of mythological scenes. Some of the frescoes were scenes from the comedies of Menander and the tragedies of Euripides. They were luxuriously furnished private houses with fountains and central heating. Between the street and houses was a portico with a mosaic floor, behind which were shops.</span></span></span></p> <span>Proceed to The <strong>Celsus Library</strong> is a Roman mausoleum and library built in the early 2nd century AD. The Library of Celsus was comissioned by the Julius as a mausoleum for his father, Roman governor of the Asian Provinces. It is one of the most beautifully reconstructed buildings in <a href="http://www.sacred-destinations.com/turkey/ephesus.htm"><span>Ephesus</span></a>, it has become an icon of the ancient city.</span> <p><span><span><strong>The Great Theatre</strong><em>, </em>dates back to the Hellenistic period. It <span>is one of the most impressive buildings in Ephesus which </span>has the capacity of 25,000 seats. The theatre was used for concerts, plays and religious, political and philosophical discussions and for gladiator and animal fights. <strong>Marble Road</strong>, runs between the Library of Celsus and the theater and is a part of the sacred  walk way.  <br />  <br /> Then, you will drive approximately 1½ hours to visit the ancient cities of Miletus and Didyma.<br />  <br /> <strong>Lunch</strong><u> suggested</u> at a local restaurant.<br />  <br /> Next, visit <strong>Miletus</strong><span> an ancient city located near the present Akkoy at the mouth of the Buyuk Menderes (Meander) River, owed its importance to its position on trade routes. It was one of the largest cities in Anatolia with a population of between 80,000 and 100,000. Highly prosperous, it founded many colonies and was the home of the 6C BC philosophers Anaximander, Anaximenes, and Thales, the town planner Hippodamus and architect Isidorus. Miletus seems to have produced geniuses the way Aphrodisias produced sculptors.</span><br />  <br /> Last, you will visit <strong>Didyma</strong>. The word Didyma meant "twins" and was associated by some as being the meeting place of Zeus and Leto to have their twins Apollo and Artemis. Didyma was famed as a prophecy center dedicated to Apollo which served a similar purpose as the Delphi of Anatolia. It was not a city but a sanctuary linked to Miletus by Milesians with a 19 km/12 m sacred road. However, this road may not have been constructed until the end of the 1C AD. In addition to pilgrimages made by sea, some festivals of drama, music and sports were held there every four years.<br /> <br /> <strong trebuchet=""><u>OUR NET PACKAGE RATE INCLUDES </u></strong></span></span></p> <ul trebuchet=""> <li><span><span>1 full day of sightseeing in a deluxe air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver in Ephesus, Didyma and Miletus.</span></span></li> <li><span><span><span>Private chauffeur driven a/c deluxe vehicle throughout the program</span></span></span></li> <li><span><span>Licensed professional  guide in English language.</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Officially licensed, English speaking guide throughout the tour program.</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Entrance fees to all museums, parks, and historic sites as marked on the itinerary.</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Bottled water provided throughout the tour. </span></span></li> <li><span><span>Welcome Package</span></span></li> <li><span><span>VAT taxes.</span></span></li> </ul> <div><span><span><strong trebuchet=""><u>OUR NET PACKAGE RATE EXCLUDES </u></strong></span></span></div> <ul trebuchet=""> <li><span><span>Gratuities to the Guide & Driver</span></span> <ul> <li><span><span> At the discretion of the guests</span></span></li> </ul> </li> <li><span><span>Personal expenses of the guests</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Suggested lunch</span></span></li> </ul> <p><span><span><span> </span></span></span></p> Ephesus 3D Experience Full Day Tour – 6 hours <span><span>Ephesus 3D tour is an extraordinary experience offering an innovative way to visit Ancient Ephesus. Our 3D virtual tour brings you inside the site with accurate replicas of Ephesus, the Celcus Library, Great Theatre and more! By using this technology, you will see reconstructed major sites of the Ancient city. During this experience, your guide will further explain 7 sites; Odeon Theatre, Curetes, Trajan Fountain, Hadrian Gate, Library of Celcus, Commercial Agora  and Arcadia way with a visual show of the Ancient Romans featuring live actors! Based on cutting edge technology and the master work of artists - our virtual tour is incredibly accurate.</span></span><br />  <br /> <span><span>Our team of artists, technicians and writers create each 3D tour with a great emphasis on colors, shapes, symmetry, sizes, compositions and proportions. Every element of the Ephesus 3D virtual tour is designed to convey the true atmosphere of the site.</span></span><br />  <br /> <strong><span><span><span>Tour Duration: </span></span></span></strong><span><span><span>6 Hours</span></span></span><br /> <strong><span><span><span>Tour can operate:</span></span></span></strong><span><span><span> Morning</span></span></span><br /> <strong><span><span><span>Wheelchair Accessible:</span></span></span></strong><span><span><span> No</span></span></span><br /> <strong><span><span><span>Physical Activity Level:</span></span></span></strong><span><span><span> Moderate </span></span></span><br /> <br /> <strong><span><span><span>Inclusions:</span></span></span></strong> <ul> <li><span><span><span>English-speaking guide</span></span></span></li> <li><span><span><span>Entrance fees and applicable taxes</span></span></span></li> <li><span><span><span>Transfers to/from </span></span></span><span><span>Kusadasi Port</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Lunch at a typical Village Restaurant, included unlimited soft drinks and wine</span></span><br />  <br /> <strong><span><span><span>Not Included: </span></span></span></strong></li> <li><span><span><span>Gratuities to driver and guide</span></span></span></li> <li><span><span><span>Personal expenses</span></span></span></li> </ul> <br />	07/28/2023 08:00 AM	07/28/2023 10:00 PM
Cesme Optional Private Excursions Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience! Cesme Port - Glories of Ephesus (Full Day) <p><span>Arrive in Cesme, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port and drive to Ephesus approximately 1 ½ hours for your full- day tour in Ephesus.</span></p> <p><span>First, you will visit the <strong>House of Virgin Mary</strong>, where the Virgin is said to have lived the last years of her life. The building was rediscovered in the late 19th century by Lazartis from Smyrna based on the vision of a German nun. The site is officially declared a shrine of the Roman Catholic Church and visited by Pope Paul VI in 1967, Pope John Paul II in 1979 and Pope Benedict XVI in 2007.</span></p> <p><span>Then, you will drive to <strong>Ephesus</strong>, enter and view the <strong>Odeon Theatre</strong>, where state affairs and concerts were held. Walk down the marble walkway and visit the Hadrian Temple. It was dedicated in 118 AD to Hadrian, Artemis, and the people of Ephesus but greatly reconstructed in the 4th century. This impressive Corinthian style temple has beautiful reliefs on the porch. According to the belief of Ephesians, the Medusa head on the porch, would protect the city from its enemies.</span></p> <p><span>A special visit will be made to the spectacular <strong>Terrace Houses (Villas)</strong> located on top of the hill within the Ephesus. They have a fantastic view of the entire city of Ephesus. They were inhabited by wealthy Ephesians, and are finely decorated with incredible examples of mosaics and frescos. The Terrace Houses were brought to light in excavations carried out since the 1980s by a team of Austrian archeologists. Along with those in Pompeii, they constitute some of the most vivid examples of Roman domestic architecture to survive to the present.<br /> <br /> Next, you will proceed to the<strong> Celsus Library</strong>, The library is the best preserved structure of its kind. The inscription on the side of the building’s front staircase says that the library was build by Julius, in his father’s honor, after his death. His father, Celsus was the Roman governor of Asia Minor early in the 2nd century AD. His tomb is in the library as well.</span></p> <p><span>Next, visit the <strong>Great Theatre</strong>, dating back to the Hellenistic period. In the 1st century AD it was successfully reconstructed and expanded by the Romans until it reached the seating capacity of 25,000. This is also the place where it is believed that St.Paul preached. It is still used for performances today.</span></p> <p><span><strong>Lunch </strong>recommended at a local restaurant.</span></p> <div><span><span><span>Last, you will visit the <strong>Ephesus Museum</strong> is an </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Archaeological_museum" title="Archaeological museum"><span>archaeological museum</span></a><span> in</span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sel%C3%A7uk" title="Selçuk"><span>Selcuk</span></a><span>. It houses finds from the nearby </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ephesus" title="Ephesus"><span>Ephesus</span></a><span> excavation site and other ancient sites in the region. Its best-known exhibit is the statue of </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Artemis" title="Artemis"><span>Artemis</span></a><span>retrieved from the T</span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Temple_of_Artemis" title="Temple of Artemis"><span>emple of the goddess</span></a><span> in Ephesus. Highlights include the fresco of Socrates, statues and heads of Eros, crosses, coins and the works of the 1<sup>st</sup> century AD. </span></span></span><br />  </div> <p><span>At the end of your day, you will return to Cesme and embark your ship.</span></p> <p></p> <div align="left"> <p><span><u><strong>Includes:</strong></u><br /> • 1 full- day of private sightseeing in Ephesus<br /> • Licensed professional guide in English Language<br /> • Air- conditioned luxury vehicle with a professional driver<br /> • Entrance fees to museums and sites according to the above itinerary<br /> • Bottled water provided throughout the tour<br /> • Welcome package<br /> • VAT tax</span></p> <p><span><u><strong>Not Included:</strong></u><br /> • Gratuities to guide and driver<br /> • Personal expenses of the guests<br /> • Meals that are not indicated on the itinerary<br /> • Recommended lunch</span></p> </div>	07/29/2023 08:00 AM	07/29/2023 02:00 PM
Istanbul Optional Private Excursions Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience! Istanbul Port - Treasures of Istanbul (Full Day Tour) <div align="center"> <p><span><strong>PORT: ISTANBUL</strong></span></p> <p><span><strong>TREASURES OF ISTANBUL</strong></span></p> <p><span><strong>Full-Day Tour</strong></span></p> <p><span>Arrive in Istanbul, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for your full- day of private sightseeing.</span></p> <p><span>Your private tour of Istanbul begins with a visit to the <strong>Hippodrome</strong>, which was one of the largest chariot race grounds of the Byzantine Empire. You will take a short walk to the<strong> Blue Mosque</strong>, completed in 1616, it is a triumph of harmony, proportion and elegance. The mosque was a part of a complex also including, tombs, fountains, kitchens, and a bath. The blue Iznik Tiles covering the walls have given the mosque its popular name, Blue Mosque.</span></p> <p><span><span>Hagia Sophia Mosque</span> is mostly known as one of the most valuable and fascinating structures in the world of art and architecture. It deserves to enter to the collection of the rare works by challenging to the time. The walls of this beautiful piece of architecture are decorated with gorgeous mosaics. UNESCO accepts Hagia Sophia as The World Heritage because of architectural beauty.</span></p> <p></p> <p><span><span><em> St. Sophia is a mosque and you need to remove your shoes and cover your head, shoulders, knees. It is advised to dress respectfully during visiting.</em></span></span></p> <p><span><strong>Lunch</strong> recommended in an old Ottoman House. You can taste delicious Turkish cuisine in a lovely garden setting.</span></p> <p><span>Next, you will visit the magnificent <strong>Topkapi Palace</strong>, the residence of the sultans for almost three centuries. It is located on the promontory jutting out between the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. The construction of the Topkapi Palace was completed between 1465 and 1478. Being the imperial residence of the sultan, his court and harem, the palace was also the seat of government for the Ottoman Empire. .<br /> <br /> Last, you will continue to explore ninety-two streets of the famous<strong> Grand Bazaar</strong>. The Grand Bazaar is the largest and oldest covered Bazaar in Turkey with more than 4,000 shops. A variety of Turkish Handicrafts, Oriental carpets, rare jewels and inexpensive souvenirs all sold in small shops next to each other. The streets are named according to the trades, such as gold and silver sellers, carpet sellers, booksellers, etc<br /> At the end of your day, you will return to the port to embark your ship.</span></p> <p></p> <p><span><u><strong>Includes:</strong></u><br /> - 1 full- day of private sightseeing in Istanbul<br /> - Licensed professional guide in English language<br /> - Air- conditioned luxury vehicle with professional driver<br /> - Entrance fees to museums and sites according to the above itinerary<br /> - Bottled water provided throughout the tours<br /> - Welcome package<br /> - VAT tax</span></p> <p><span><u><strong>Not included:</strong></u><br /> - Gratuities to guide and driver<br /> - Meals that are not indicated on the itinerary<br /> - Personal expenses of the guests<br /> - Recommended lunch</span></p> </div> <!-- Facebook Badge START --> <div><a href="https://www.facebook.com/seasongtours" target="_TOP" title="Sea Song Tours"><!-- Facebook Badge END --></a></div> Istanbul Port - Byzantine Highlights- (Half Day Tour) <div align="center"> <p><span><strong>PORT: ISTANBUL<br /> BYZANTINE HIGHLIGHTS<br /> Half-Day Tour</strong></span></p> <p><br /> <span>Arrive in Istanbul, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for your half day Byzantine Highlights tour.</span></p> <p><span>First, your private tour of Istanbul begins with a visit to the <strong>Hippodrome</strong>, which was one of the largest chariot race grounds of the Byzantine Empire.</span></p> <p><span><span>Hagia Sophia Mosque</span> is mostly known as one of the most valuable and fascinating structures in the world of art and architecture. It deserves to enter to the collection of the rare works by challenging to the time. The walls of this beautiful piece of architecture are decorated with gorgeous mosaics. UNESCO accepts Hagia Sophia as The World Heritage because of architectural beauty.</span></p> <p></p> <p><span><span><em> St. Sophia is a mosque and you need to remove your shoes and cover your head, shoulders, knees. It is advised to dress respectfully during visiting.</em></span></span></p> <p><span>Then, you will visit the<strong> Underground Cistern</strong>, a fiant reservoir built by Justinian in the 6th century to bring water to the city to be used in the palaces. It is 70 meters wide and 140 meters long, with a capacity of 80,000 cubic meters of water. It has 336 beautiful columns that support the cistern, two of which are carved with the head of Medusa on the plinth.</span></p> <p><span>Last, you continue to explore ninety- two streets of the famous <strong>Grand Bazaar</strong>, the largest and oldest covered Bazaar in Turkey with more than 4,000 shops. A variety of Turkish Handicrafts, Oriental carpets, rare jewels and inexpensive souvenirs all sold in small shops next to each other.</span></p> <p><span>At the end your morning experience at 1:00pm, you will return to the port and embark your ship.</span></p> <p></p> <p><span><u><strong>Includes:</strong></u><br /> - 1 half-day of private sightseeing in Istanbul<br /> - Licensed professional guide in English language<br /> - Entrance fees to museums and sites according to the above itinerary<br /> - Private Air-conditioned VIP vehicle with professional driver<br /> - Bottled water provided throughout the tours<br /> - Welcome Package<br /> - VAT taxes</span></p> <p><span><u><strong>Not included:</strong></u><br /> - Gratuities to guide and driver<br /> - Personal expenses of the guests<br /> - Meals that are not indicated on the itinerary</span></p> </div> <!-- Facebook Badge START --> <div><a href="https://www.facebook.com/seasongtours" target="_TOP" title="Sea Song Tours"><!-- Facebook Badge END --></a></div> Istanbul Port - Cultural Istanbul-(Full Day Tour) <div align="center"> <p><strong>PORT: ISTANBUL<br /> CULTURAL ISTANBUL<br /> Private Full-Day Tour</strong></p> <p><span><span>Arrive in Istanbul, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for your private full- day sightseeing.</span></span></p> <p><span><span>First, you will visit the <strong>Suleymaniye Mosque</strong>. Built by the great Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan on the order of Sultan Suleiman I (Suleiman the Magnificent), the Suleymaniye Mosque dominates the third hill of old Istanbul, and is strikingly graceful and less ornate than many other imperial mosques, thus lending itself to meditation and quiet reflection.</span></span></p> <p><span><span>Next, you will visit the <strong>Church of St. Saviour in Chora</strong>. After St. Sophia, St.Saviour Chora is the most important Byzantine Church in the city. It was built in the 11th century AD. The walls are decorated with breathtaking 14th century AD frescoes and mosaics. The mosaics relate to the life story of Virgin Mary and the life of Christ.</span></span></p> <p font-size:="" sans="" source="" text-align:=""><span>Lunch recommended at <span>Hamdi Restaurant</span> serving traditional Turkish Kebaps.</span><br /> <br /> <span>Then, you will discover the</span><strong> Egyptian Bazaar</strong><span>; the second largest covered market in Istanbul. It was constructed in the 1660s as part of the Yeni Camii (New Mosque) complex. The name derives from the herbs, and spices imported from or through Egypt. It is still the best place to buy Turkish delight, dried fruit, exotic spices and herbs.</span></p> <p><span><span>You will continue to explore ninety-two streets of the famous <strong>Grand Bazaar</strong>. The Grand Bazaar is the largest and oldest covered Bazaar in Turkey with more than 4,000 shops. A variety of Turkish Handicrafts, Oriental carpets, rare jewels and inexpensive souvenirs all sold in small shops next to each other. The streets are named according to the trades, such as gold and silver sellers, carpet sellers, booksellers, etc.<br /> <br /> <span>Visit the 16th Century palace of the Sultan’s Grand Vizier, Ibrahim Pasa, which today houses the <strong>Turkish and</strong> <strong>Islamic Art</strong> <strong>Museum</strong>.  The museum contains what many consider to be the finest collection of Islamic artifacts in the world. The museum is well laid out and contains more rare examples of ceramics, Koran cases, calligraphy, textiles, metalwork and illuminated manuscripts. Its antique carpet exhibit is renowned; the carpets, kilims and prayer rugs form one of the richest and oldest collections in the world. </span></span></span><br />  </p> <p><span><span>At the end of your day, you will return to the port to embark your ship.</span></span><br />  </p> <p></p> <p><span><span><strong><u>Includes:</u></strong><br /> - 1 full- day of private sightseeing in Istanbul<br /> - Air- conditioned luxury VIP vehicle with a professional driver<br /> - Licensed professional guide in English language<br /> - Entrance fees to museums and sites according to the above itinerary<br /> - Bottled water provided on the vehicles.<br /> - Welcome package<br /> - VAT taxes</span></span></p> <p></p> <p><span><span><u><strong>Not included:</strong></u><br /> - Gratuities to guide and driver<br /> - Personal expenses of the guests<br /> - Meals that are not indicated on the itinerary<br /> - Recommended lunch<span id="cke_bm_143E"> </span><span id="cke_bm_124E"> </span><span id="cke_bm_179E"> </span><span id="cke_bm_178E"> </span></span></span></p> </div> <div><!-- Facebook Badge START --></div> <div><a href="https://www.facebook.com/seasongtours" target="_TOP" title="Sea Song Tours"><!-- Facebook Badge END --></a></div> Istanbul Port - Ottoman Collection - (Half-Day Tour) <p></p> <div> <div align="center"> <p><span><strong><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">PORT: ISTANBUL<br /> OTTOMAN COLLECTION<br /> Half - Day Tour</font></strong></span></p> <p><span><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Arrive in Istanbul, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for a half - day Ottoman Collection tour.</font></span></p> <p><span><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Your private tour of Istanbul begins with a visit to the <strong>Blue Mosque</strong>, completed in 1616, it is a triumph of harmony, proportion and elegance. The mosque was a part of a complex also including, tombs, fountains, kitchens, and a bath. The blue Iznik Tiles covering the walls have given the mosque its popular name, Blue Mosque.</font></span></p> <p><span><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Next, you will visit the magnificent<strong> Topkapi Palace</strong>, the residence of the sultans for almost three centuries. It is located on the promontory jutting out between the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. The construction of the Topkapi Palace was completed between 1465 and 1478. Being the imperial residence of the sultan, his court and harem, the palace was also the seat of government for the Ottoman Empire. </font></span></p> <p><span><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Last, you will continue to explore ninety- two streets of the famous <strong>Grand Bazaar</strong>. The Grand Bazaar is the largest and oldest covered Bazaar in Turkey with more than 4,000 shops. A variety of Turkish Handicrafts, Oriental carpets, rare jewels and inexpensive souvenirs all sold in small shops next to each other. The streets are named according to the trades, such as gold and silver sellers, carpet sellers, booksellers, etc</font></span></p> <p><span><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">At the end of your morning visits approximately at 1:00pm, you will return to the port to embark your ship.</font></span></p> <p></p> <p><span><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><u><strong>Includes:</strong></u><br /> - 1 half-day of private sightseeing in Istanbul<br /> - Licensed professional guide in English language<br /> - Entrance fees to museums and sites according to the above itinerary<br /> - Private Air-conditioned VIP vehicle with professional driver<br /> - Welcome Package<br /> - Bottled water provided throughout the tours<br /> - VAT taxes</font></span></p> <p><span><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><u><strong>Not included:</strong></u><br /> - Gratuities to guide and driver</font><br /> - Personal expenses of the guests<br /> - Meals that are not indicated on the itinerary</span></p> </div> <!-- Facebook Badge START --><a href="https://www.facebook.com/seasongtours" target="_TOP" title="Sea Song Tours"><!-- Facebook Badge END --></a></div> <div></div> Istanbul: Highlights - 7 hours <div><span><span> An English speaking officially licenced lecturer/guide will meet the guests at the exit of the Istanbul cruise pier at 08:30 am, with a sign reading their names, for a private sightseeing tour of Istanbul. </span></span> <p><span><span>The private tour program will start with the Roman Hippodrome that was a colossal stadium housing horse races around which the socio-political life of the Roman capital was centered. In its great days, it was 1575 feet long, 384 feet wide and held 100,000 spectators. It was the site of chariot racing, gladiator fights, circuses, inaugurations and triumphal parades.</span></span></p> <p><span><span>The tour will continue with a visit to the Blue Mosque- the masterpiece of 17th century Ottoman Architecture, famous for its unique hand made original Iznik Tiles impressing the guests with their rich dominant blue colors and oriental patterns. They have become collectors’ items today, auctioned at celebrated houses like the Sotheby’s.</span></span></p> <p><span><span>Next visit will be to the Topkapi Palace and its Imperial Treasury Section that was the center of Ottoman Empire’s Government Seat ruling most of the Middle East and the Eastern Europe from this palace for 500 years. </span></span></p> <p><span><span>Lunch will be served at a recommended local/select restaurants close to the sites. </span></span></p> <p><span><span>In the afternoon, visit the World famous Hagia Sophia (The Church of Divine Wisdom), one of the extraordinary masterpieces in the history of World architecture. When a previous church on this site was burned during the Nikka Revolt in 532, Justinian ordered his architect, Isidorus, to build a structure worthy of his empire. Hagia Sophia was completed in only five years and was dedicated on Christmas Day of 537. The building inspired countless generations by its innovations in weight support and construction techniques and what a dome it was: the popular belief was that ‘the dome was suspended from Heaven by an invisible golden chain’. In reality it was work of men, but a worldly simulator of the Heavens</span></span></p> <p><span><span>Finally, visit the Grand Bazaar, more dazzling than any other oriental bazaar, built in 1461 and in service ever since. It contains 3,500 shops employing more than 20,000 people all under one roof. Everything imaginable in the world is for sale here, glittering gold and silver jewelry, antique tiles, leather, and souvenirs. Just seeing and experiencing this fascinating bazaar is a memorable experience.</span></span></p> <p><span><span>At the end of today’s private tour, the guests will be transferred back to the cruise pier.</span></span></p> <ul> <li><span><span>Closed weekly days for sites/museums:</span></span></li> <li><span><span>St. Sophia is closed on Mondays</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays and official holidays.</span></span></li> </ul> <p><span><span><strong>Highlights: </strong></span></span></p> <ul> <li><span><span>Great introduction to Istanbul's history and culture</span></span></li> </ul> <p></p> <ul> <li><span><span>The tour covers the main highlights of the city</span></span></li> </ul> <span><span> <strong>Tour Duration :</strong> 7 hours</span></span> <p><span><span><strong>Tour can operate:</strong> Starting mornings</span></span></p> <p><span><span><strong>Wheelchair Accessible:</strong> Partial</span></span></p> <p><span><span><strong>Physical Activity Level: </strong>Moderate</span></span></p> <p><span><span><strong>Included:</strong> Transportation by a chauffeur driven a/c private vehicle, licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums</span></span></p> <p><span><span><strong>Not Included:</strong> Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses</span></span></p> </div> <div></div> Istanbul: Jewish Heritage Tour - 7 hours <span><span>An English speaking officially licenced lecturer/guide will meet the guests at the exit of the Istanbul cruise pier at 09:00 am, with a sign reading their names, for a private sightseeing tour of Istanbul. </span></span> <p><span><span>First visit of the day is to the Galata Tower which was built in 1303 by immigrants from Genoa, Italy. While sipping your Turkish coffee there, you will be amazed at the spectacular view of the Golden Horn and the old buildings located on its shores depicting how Istanbul looked hundreds years ago.<br /> The private tour will continue with a visit to the Neve Shalom and the oldest Synagogue in Istanbul- the Ahrida Synagogue, built around 1470 by Jewish immigrants from Macedonia.<br /> Lunch will be served at a local restaurant close to the sites.<br /> <br /> The guests will be then taken to the Jewish Museum of Turkey. There is evidence that this building as a former synagogue existed in 1671. However the actual building was re-erected over its original foundations presumably in the early 19th Century. Zulfaris Synagogue has opened its doors as the Jewish museum in 2001. Continue to visit the Balat section, where the Star of David appears.<br /> <br /> At the end of the day,a private lecturer/guide will take the guests back to the cruise pier.<br /> <br /> Closed weekly days for sites/museums:<br /> • Synagogues are closed on Saturdays and Sunday<br /> * Neve Shalon Synagogue is closed on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays<br /> • Zulfaris Synagogue (Jewish Museum) is closed on Saturdays.</span></span></p> <p></p> <p><span><span>* Please forward us a copy of your guests’ passport page with the photo, as required by the Chief Rabbi of Istanbul, to obtain His official approval for the synagogue visits in Turkey.</span></span></p> <p></p> <p><span><span><strong>Added Value: </strong></span></span></p> <span><span> Great introduction to Istanbul's Jewish history and culture</span></span> <p></p> <span><span> The tour covers the main highlights of the Jewish Heritage in Istanbul</span></span> <p></p> <span><span> <strong>Tour Duration </strong>: 7 hours</span></span> <p></p> <p><span><span><strong>Tour can operate:</strong> Starting mornings</span></span></p> <p><span><span><strong>Wheelchair Accessible</strong>: Partial</span></span></p> <p><span><span><strong>Physical Activity Level: </strong>Moderate</span></span></p> <p><span><span><strong>Included: </strong>Transportation by a cheaffeur driven a/c private vehicle, a licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums</span></span></p> <p><span><span><strong>Not Included:</strong> Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses</span></span></p> <p></p> Istanbul: Private Art Collections - 7 hours <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">An English speaking private lecturer/guide will meet you at at the Istanbul cruise pier at 9 am for departure by chauffeur driven a/c deluxe minivan, to start your private sightseeing tour of Istanbul.</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Today’s private tour will start with a visit to the Istanbul Modern Museum of Art, situated at the shores of the Bosphorus. Istanbul Modern Museum of Art exhibits Turkey’s art heritage, and creates a platform for Turkish peoples’ creativity, dynamism, cultural identity and universal values.</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">A drive along the scenic Bosphorus Avenue will take you to the Family Villa of the Sabanci’s, the Internationally successful Turkish industrialist, now housing Mr. Sabanci’s lifetime collection of rare art pieces and celebrated paintings by Int’l and local masters, displayed in his former Family Home, recently donated to his Foundation as a Private Museum.</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Lunch will be served at a local seafood restaurant by the shores of the Bosphorus (at your own discretion and cost). </font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">After lunch, you will visit Private Museum of Lady Sadberk, donated to the nation by art-loving wife of Vehbi Koc, another leading industrialist. The beautiful, late-Ottoman wooden mansion contains a fabulous collection of Turkish arts and crafts, including jewelry, silverware, and Iznik ceramics of the classic period.</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">At the end of the tour, you will be transferred to your hotel/cruise pier by 4 pm.</font></p> <p><strong><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Closed weekly days for sites/museums:</font></strong></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">• Istanbul Modern Museum is closed on Mondays.</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">• Sabanci: Museum is closed on Mondays. </font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">• Lady Sadberk Han Museum is closed on Wednesdays.</font></font></p> <p></p> <p><br /> <strong><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Added Value: </font></strong></p> <font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Great introduction to Istanbul's art culture</font> <p></p> <font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">The tour covers the main highlights of art in the city</font> <p></p> <font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Tour Duration : </strong>7 hours</font> <p></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Tour can operate</strong>: Starting mornings</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Wheelchair Accessible: </strong>Partial</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Physical Activity Level:</strong> Moderate</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Included:</strong> Transportation by a chaeffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Not Included:</strong> Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses</font></p> <p></p> Istanbul: Private Yacht Cruise along the Bosphorus - 7 hours <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">An English speaking officially licensed lecturer/guide will meet the guests at the Istanbul cruise pier at 09:00 am for a private sightseeing tour of Istanbul.</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Today’s tour will start with a visit to the Dolmabahce Palace- the largest and the finest example of Ottoman Baroque Architecture, a monument to the Ottomans’ westernization process in the 19th century. The Ottoman response to the overwhelming changes in the post-renaissance world was rapid westernization, initiated in the imperial lifestyle at first that gave way to the creation of a series of baroque-style European-fashion palaces on the shores of the Bosphorus. </font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">You will then board a private boat for a cruise on the Bosphorus against the majestic skyline of Istanbul. Your private boat will cruise along the romantic Bosphorus visiting both the Europe Side and the Asia Side of Istanbul by the shores of local fishing villages, en route when it is possible to take memorable photos of the fascinating environments including the 15th century Rumelihisar? Fortress, the Summer Palaces of Lady Ottoman Sultans, and the historical Wooden Houses (Yalis) of famous Turkish families. The cruise ends on the Asian side of Istanbul.</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Lunch will be served at a local seafood restaurants in Kanlica Village by the Bosphorus.</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">After lunch, you will proceed to the top of the Grand Camlica Hill, where you will enjoy the panoramic view of the European side of Istanbul. </font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Your private tour will continue with a visit to the Beylerbeyi Palace, the residence of the Ottoman Sultans in late 19th and early 20th century. </font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">After this visit, a scenic drive on the Asian shores of the Bosphorus will take you to the Kanlica Village where you will have a taste of the famous “local yogurt” and “apple tea” in a local café by the Bosphorus. </font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">At the end of the day, the lecturer/guide will take the guests back to the hotel/cruise ship by 4 pm.</font></p> <p><strong><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Closed weekly days for sites/museums:</font></strong></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">• Dolmabahçe Palace is closed on Mondays and Thursdays.</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">• Beylerbeyi Palace is closed on Mondays and Thursdays.</font></p> <p></p> <p><br /> <font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Added Value:</strong> </font></p> <font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Great introduction to Istanbul's history and culture</font> <p></p> <font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Tour Duration :</strong> 7 hours</font> <p></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Tour can operate:</strong> Starting mornings</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Wheelchair Accessible</strong>: No</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Physical Activity Level</strong>: Moderate</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Included:</strong> Transportation by a chauffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Not Included:</strong> Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses</font></p> <p></p> Istanbul: The 16th Century Masterpieces of Sinan the Architect - 7 hours <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Your English speaking private guide will meet you at the Istanbul cruise pier at 9 am for a private full day sightseeing tour of Sinan the architect’s Istanbul buildings.</font></p> <p></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">The private tour will start with a visit to Rustem Pasha Mosque. It was designed by famous “Sinan the Architect” for Grand Vizier Rustem Pasha. Rustem Pasha Mosque is famous for its exquisite Iznik tiles, set in beautiful floral and geometric designs, which cover not only the facade of the porch but also the walls and columns.</font></p> <p></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Continue to Mosque of Suleyman the Magnificent, which is the most important of all the imperial mosques in Istanbul. Suleyman the Magnificent and his wife are both buried here and the mosque is considered the most beautiful of the city’s Imperial mosques. It was built between 1550 and 1557 by Sinan, and is erected on the crest of a hill. The mosque is conspicuous by its great size, and has four minarets – one in each corner of the courtyard. The interior is also spectacular; the mihrab (prayer niche facing Mecca) and the mimber (pulpit) are finely carved in white marble, and there are magnificent stained glass windows.</font></p> <p></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Lunch will be served at a local restaurant close to the sights (at your own discretion and cost).</font></p> <p></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">In the afternoon, you will visit the Mihrimah Sultan Mosque located in the Edirnekapi neighborhood near the Byzantine city walls. Located on the peak of the Sixth Hill near the highest point of the city, the mosque is a prominent landmark in Istanbul. The Mihrimah Sultan Mosque was designed by "Sinan the Architect" for the favorite daughter of Suleiman the Magnificent, Princess Mihrimah.</font></p> <p></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Last visit of the day will be to the Sehzade Mosque which was commissioned by Sultan Suleiman in memory of his eldest son by Hürrem, Prince Mehmet, who died the age of 21. It was the first major commission by the Imperial Architect Sinan and was completed in 1548. It is considered by architectural historians as Sinan's first masterpiece of classical Ottoman architecture.</font></p> <p></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">At the end of the tour, you will be transferred to your hotel/cruise ship by 4 pm.</font></p> <p></p> <p><strong><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Added Value: </font></strong></p> <font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Great introduction to Sinan the Architect's masterpieces</font> <p></p> <font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">The tour covers the masterpieces of Sinan the Architect in Istanbul</font> <p></p> <font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Tour Duration :</strong> 7 hours</font> <p></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Tour can operate:</strong> Starting mornings</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Wheelchair Accessible</strong>: Partial</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Physical Activity Level: </strong>Moderate</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Included:</strong> Transportation by a chauffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Not Included:</strong> Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses</font></p> <p></p> Istanbul Full Day Sightseeing plus Private Bosphorus Cruise - 8 hours <span><span><strong>Highlights/Description:</strong></span></span> <ul> <li><span><span>Dolmabahce Palace</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Cruise on Bosphorus</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Rüstem Pasha Mosque</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Spice Bazaar</span></span></li> </ul> <span><span>  <br /> Your English-speaking, private guide will meet you at the cruise pier for your full day sightseeing tour of Istanbul.<br />  <br /> First, you will proceed to explore the 19th Century Dolmabahce Palace to experience its eclectic style of architecture with Baroque and Rococo touch. Compared to Topkap? Palace, Dolmabahçe is more westernized in its architectural style. You will enjoy its elaborate interior decoration.<br />  <br /> You will next board a private motor yacht for a relaxing cruise on the Bosphorus, which has been a geopolitically important strait between Europe and Asia connecting the Black Sea to the Marmara Sea. You will pass by some magnificent palaces, old mansions and fortresses.<br />  <br /> Next, you will see the Rüstem Pasha Mosque, which is among the city's architectural gems. This is the first example of the great Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan building a mosque to an octagonal plan. Beautifully proportioned and the interior is covered in some of the most exquisite Iznik tiles ever produced. The tiles, made at the height of Iznik's supremacy, have a good deal of the famous red color that was the envy of other tile makers (blue, yellow, white and green were easy colors to produce, but red was extraordinarily difficult.<br />  <br /> You will explore the Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar). It was constructed in the 17th Century as a part of the New Mosque complex. This oriental market is the best place to buy Turkish delight, exotic spices, herbs, Turkish coffee and tea.<br />  <br /> Before you will be transferred back to the port, your guide will take you to the backstreets of the Spice Bazaar to taste a traditional Ottoman drink: Boza (fermented millet) at the famous Vefa Bozacisi.<br />  <br /> At the end of the tour, your private guide will transfer you back to your hotel or cruise pier.<br />  <br /> <strong>Tour Duration: </strong>8 Hours<br /> <strong>Tour can operate:</strong> Morning<br /> <strong>Wheelchair Accessible:</strong> No<br /> <strong>Physical Activity Level:</strong> Moderate<br /> <strong>Inclusions:</strong></span></span> <ul> <li><span><span>Officially licensed, private guide</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Transfers to/from port in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Parking fees and entrance fees of the sites/museums stated in the tour program</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Bottled water</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Welcome package</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Applicable taxes</span></span></li> </ul> <span><span> <strong>Not Included: </strong></span></span> <ul> <li><span><span>Meals, unless otherwise noted</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Gratuities</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Personal expenses</span></span></li> </ul> Jewish Heritage Half Day Tour (Istanbul) - 4 hours <span><span><strong>Highlights/Description:</strong></span></span> <ul> <li><span><span>Galata Quarter</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Ahrida Synagogue</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Jewish Museum</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Grand Bazaar</span></span></li> </ul> <span><span> <br /> Your English-speaking, private guide will meet you at the cruise pier for your half day sightseeing tour of Istanbul.<br />  <br /> Your private tour will start with a visit to the old Galata Quarter, a Jewish quarter for centuries. Visit to the Galata Tower, which was built in 1303 by immigrants from Genoa, Italy. A medieval stone tower in the heart of Pera quarter just to the north of the Golden Horn. One of the city's most striking landmarks, it is a high, cone-capped cylinder that dominates the skyline and affords a panoramic vista of Old Istanbul and its environs. You will enjoy the spectacular view of the city.<br />  <br /> Next visit will be to the Ottoman Baroque style Ahrida Synagogue originally built in the 15th century and is the earliest synagogue in Istanbul.  The original 20-foot long oak bimah (teva), shaped either like Noah’s Ark or, like the Ottoman ship which brought the Sephardim to freedom from Spain to Turkey, can still be seen. <br />  <br /> Your private tour will continue with a visit to the Jewish Museum of Turkey, which is housed in the former Zulfaris Synagogue, aims to “collect, preserve, exhibit, interpret and disseminate knowledge about the cultural heritage of the Turkish Jews.” It captures 700 years of amiable relations between Jews and Turks, beginning in 1326 with the Ottoman conquest of Bursa. The building itself dates from the early 19th century, although there is evidence of a Synagogue in the same spot in the 17th century. The Synagogue functioned as a place of worship for over a century, and was reopened as the Quincentenial Foundation Museum of Turkish Jews (Jewish Museum of Turkey) in 2001.The Museum contains various exhibits relating to Jewish history in Istanbul and is fitted with information panels, maps and some touch screen information booths.<br />  <br /> Lastly visit the famous Grand Bazaar, the largest and the oldest covered Bazaar in this part of the world with more than 4000 small shops. You will see a great variety of Turkish handicrafts, handmade oriental carpets, jewelry and many souvenirs within the old market.<br />  <br /> At the end of your tour, you will be transferred back to the cruise pier.<br />  <br /> <strong>Tour Duration: </strong>4 Hours<br /> <strong>Tour can operate:</strong> Morning or Afternoon (not available on the Sabbath or Jewish Holidays)<br /> <strong>Wheelchair Accessible:</strong> No<br /> <strong>Physical Activity Level:</strong> Moderate<br /> <br /> <strong>Inclusions:</strong></span></span> <ul> <li><span><span>Officially licensed, private guide</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Transfers to/from port in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Parking fees and entrance fees of the sites/museums stated in the tour program</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Bottled water</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Welcome package</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Applicable taxes</span></span></li> </ul> <span><span><strong>Not Included: </strong></span></span> <ul> <li><span><span>Meals, unless otherwise noted</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Gratuities</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Personal expenses</span></span></li> </ul> Old City of Istanbul Full Day Tour - 8 hours <span><span><strong>Highlights/Description:</strong></span></span> <ul> <li><span><span>Roman Hippodrome and Egyptian Obelisk</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Blue Mosque</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Haghia Sophia</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Topkapi Palace</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Basilica Cistern</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Grand Bazaar</span></span></li> </ul> <span><span> <br /> Your English-speaking, private guide will meet you at the cruise pier for your full day sightseeing tour of Istanbul with a deluxe air-conditioned mini-van.<br />  <br /> You will first visit the Roman Hippodrome, along with the Egyptian Obelisk, and then proceed to the Blue Mosque, which was built in between 1609-1616. The Blue tiles cover the walls have given its popular name “Blue Mosque”.<br />  <br /> Next visit will be to one of the great monumental buildings of the world Haghia Sophia that was built by Emperor Justinian in 537. It has remained as the greatest church until the conquest of Constantinople in 1453 by the Ottoman Sultan Mehmet II. The great dome and its gallery were covered with gold mosaics and still survive.<br />  <br /> Proceed to the magnificent Topkap? Palace, which has been the residence of the Ottoman Sultans for almost four centuries. Besides being the residence of the Sultan and his family, Topkap? was also the seat of the Ottoman Divan. 5000 people lived in the palace. You will see the Sultan’s Treasury and the Holy Relics exhibition.<br />  <br /> You will continue to the Underground Cistern (Basilica Cistern), which is the most unusual structure in the city. This was a vital part of defense system of the city as a big water reservoir, which can hold 18 million gallons of water.<br />  <br /> Lastly visit the famous Grand Bazaar, the largest and the oldest covered Bazaar in this part of the world with more than 4000 small shops. You will see a great variety of Turkish handicrafts, handmade oriental carpets, jewelry and many souvenirs within the old market.<br />  <br /> Before you are transferred back to your hotel or the cruise pier, you will visit the best baklava factory to taste this awesome dessert.<br />  <br /> At the end of your tour, you will be transferred back to the cruise pier.<br />  <br /> <strong>Tour Duration: </strong>8 Hours<br /> <strong>Tour can operate:</strong> Morning<br /> <strong>Wheelchair Accessible:</strong> No<br /> <strong>Physical Activity Level:</strong> Moderate<br /> <br /> <strong>Inclusions:</strong></span></span> <ul> <li><span><span>Officially licensed, private guide</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Transfers to/from port in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Parking fees and entrance fees of the sites/museums stated in the tour program</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Bottled water</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Welcome package</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Applicable taxes</span></span></li> </ul> <span><span><strong>Not Included: </strong></span></span> <ul> <li><span><span>Meals, unless otherwise noted</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Gratuities</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Personal expenses</span></span></li> </ul> Old City of Istanbul Half Day Tour - 4 hours <span><span><strong>Highlights/Description:</strong></span></span> <ul> <li><span><span>Roman Hippodrome</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Egyptian Obelisk</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Blue Mosque</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Haghia Sophia –OR– Topkapi Palace</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Grand Bazaar</span></span></li> </ul> <span><span> <br /> Your English-speaking, private guide will meet you at the cruise pier for your half day sightseeing tour of Istanbul with a deluxe air-conditioned mini-van.<br />  <br /> You will first visit the Roman Hippodrome, along with the Egyptian Obelisk, and then proceed to the Blue Mosque, which was built in between 1609-1616. The Blue tiles cover the walls have given its popular name “Blue Mosque”.<br />  <br /> Next visit will be to one of the great monumental buildings of the world Haghia Sophia that was built by Emperor Justinian in 537. It has remained as the greatest church until the conquest of Constantinople in 1453 by the Ottoman Sultan Mehmet II. The great dome and its gallery were covered with gold mosaics and still survive.<br />  <br /> <strong><em>OR </em></strong><br />  <br /> Next visit will be to the magnificent Topkap? Palace, which has been the residence of the Ottoman Sultans for almost four centuries. Besides being the residence of the Sultan and his family, Topkap? was also the seat of the Ottoman Divan. 5000 people lived in the palace. You will see the Sultan’s Treasury and the Holy Relics exhibition.<br />  <br /> Lastly visit the famous Grand Bazaar, the largest and the oldest covered Bazaar in this part of the world with more than 4000 small shops. You will see a great variety of Turkish handicrafts, handmade oriental carpets, jewelry and many souvenirs within the old market.<br />  <br /> At the end of your tour, you will be transferred back to the cruise pier.<br />  <br /> You have the option to choose Topkapi Palace or St. Sophia<br />  <br /> <strong>Tour Duration: </strong>4 Hours<br /> <strong>Tour can operate:</strong> Morning<br /> <strong>Wheelchair Accessible:</strong> No<br /> <strong>Physical Activity Level:</strong> Moderate<br /> <br /> <strong>Inclusions:</strong></span></span> <ul> <li><span><span>Officially licensed, private guide</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Transfers to/from port in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Parking fees and entrance fees of the sites/museums stated in the tour program</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Bottled water</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Welcome package</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Applicable taxes</span></span></li> </ul> <span><span><strong>Not Included: </strong></span></span> <ul> <li><span><span>Meals, unless otherwise noted</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Gratuities</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Personal expenses</span></span></li> </ul> Istanbul Port - Private Bosphorus Cruise (Half Day) <div><span>Arrive in Istanbul, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for your private cruise on the Bosphorus and visit to Grand Bazaar. <br /> <br /> <span>You will transfer to pier to embark your <strong>private yacht </strong>for <strong>an exciting cruise on the </strong></span><strong>Bosphorus</strong>, the narrow strait of water separating the Asian and European continents and the lifeblood of Istanbul.  Passing along the shores of the Bosphorus you will view magnificent palaces, restored Ottoman villas, impressive fortresses and the waterside residences of Istanbul’s elite.  Enjoy soft drinks tea and coffee on the motor yacht and see a different perspective of Istanbul, described by a Byzantine visitor in the 12<sup>th</sup> century as “the city of the world’s desire”. Cruise takes approximately 1½hours.<br />  <br /> Then, you will visit the <strong>Grand Bazaar</strong>, the largest and oldest covered Bazaar in Turkey with more than 4,000 shops. A variety of handicrafts, carpets, rare jewels and souvenirs all sold in small shops next to each other. The merchants are selling everything from antiques, home wares, books, copper ware, ceramics, gold and inexpensive souvenirs. Venture into the hidden courtyards or hans, lookout for marble fountains and ornate kiosks.  Streets are named according to the trades and the most oriental atmosphere in Istanbul is found in the bazaar.<br />  <br /> <span>At the end of your experience, approximately at 1:00pm, you will return to the port to embark your ship.</span><br />  <br /> <strong trebuchet=""><u><span>Inclusions:</span></u></strong></span></div> <ul trebuchet=""> <li><span><span>1 half day of sightseeing in a deluxe air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver.</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Services of an officially licensed, English speaking guide throughout the tour program.</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Bosphorus cruise on a private yacht for 1½ hours.</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Bottled water provided through the tour. </span></span></li> <li><span><span>Welcome Package.</span></span></li> <li><span><span>VAT taxes.</span></span></li> </ul> <div><br trebuchet="" /> <span><strong trebuchet=""><u><span>Exclusions:</span></u></strong></span></div> <ul trebuchet=""> <li><span><span>Gratuities to the Guide & Driver</span></span> <ul> <li><span><span> At the discretion of the guests</span></span></li> </ul> </li> <li><span><span>Personal expenses of the guests</span></span></li> </ul> Istanbul Port - Private Cooking Class in a Local Home with Market Visit <div><span><span>Arrive in Istanbul,  you will meet your professional guide, outside of the terminal building at the port for your private cooking class experience at Turkish Flavours.<br />  <br /> First you will embark on a culinary tour in the  <strong>Spice Market</strong>, you will stop at one of the most famous spice shops and taste the different spices that you will use during your class.  After your culinary tour in the Spice Market, you will take a local ferry to <strong>Kadikoy</strong>, on the Asian side of Istanbul  to transfer to the local home.<br />  </span></span> <p><span>You will enjoy the workshop for your <strong>cooking experience</strong>. You will cook some traditional Turkish food with a professional chef. You will have lunch with the food you prepared and have a chance to taste what you have cooked with local wine. </span><span>Put your chef hats on and get cooking! Learn authentic recipes from local experts & chefs on a one of a kind private cooking class in Istanbul.</span></p> <br /> <span><span> At the end of your experience, you will return to the port .<br /> <br /> <b><u>Inclusions:</u></b></span></span></div> <ul trebuchet=""> <li><span><span>Private Cooking Class experience.</span></span></li> <li><span><span>A deluxe air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver </span></span></li> <li><span><span><span>Private chauffeur driven a/c deluxe vehicle throughout the program.</span></span></span></li> <li><span><span>Services of an officially licensed, English speaking guide throughout the tour program.</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Local ferry tickets.</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Bottled water provided throughout the tour. </span></span></li> <li><span><span>Welcome Package.</span></span></li> <li><span><span>VAT taxes.</span></span></li> </ul> <div><span><span><strong trebuchet=""><u>Exclusions:</u></strong></span></span></div> <ul trebuchet=""> <li><span><span>Gratuities to the Guide & Driver</span></span> <ul> <li><span><span> At the discretion of the guests</span></span></li> </ul> </li> <li><span><span>Personal expenses of the guests</span></span></li> </ul> Istanbul Port - Private Culinary Walking Tour ( Half Day Tour) <div><span><span>Arrive in Istanbul, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for your half day culinary adventure through the Spice Bazaar. <br /> <br /> You will visit the <strong>Egyptian Bazaar,</strong> the second largest covered market in Istanbul.  It was constructed in the 1660s as part of the Yeni Camii (New Mosque) complex. The name derives from the herbs, and spices imported from or through Egypt. It is still the best place to buy Turkish delight, dried fruit, exotic spices, herbs, nuts, Turkish apricots and  cavier.  Around the bazaar , you can also find the cheese shops, fruits and vegetables. <br />  <br /> After your experience, you can have a break at one of the Turkish tea shops in the bazaar area and enjoy a Turkish or herbal tea.<br />  <br /> At the end of your morning visits approximately at 1:00pm, you will return to the port.<br />  <br /> Afternoon at leisure.<br />  <br trebuchet="" /> <strong trebuchet=""><u>Inclusions:</u></strong></span></span></div> <ul trebuchet=""> <li><span><span>1 half day of sightseeing in a deluxe air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver.</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Licensed professional guide in English language.</span></span></li> </ul> <ul trebuchet=""> <li><span><span>Services of Sea Song Tour’s English speaking, officially licensed guide throughout the tour program.</span></span></li> </ul> <ul trebuchet=""> <li><span><span>Entrance fees to all museums, parks, and historic sites as marked on the itinerary.</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Bottled water provided through the tour. </span></span></li> <li><span><span>Welcome Package.</span></span></li> <li><span><span>VAT taxes.</span></span></li> </ul> <div><span><span><strong trebuchet=""><u>Exclusions: </u></strong></span></span></div> <ul trebuchet=""> <li><span><span>Gratuities to the Guide & Driver</span></span> <ul> <li><span><span> At the discretion of the guests</span></span></li> </ul> </li> <li><span><span>Personal expenses of the guests</span></span></li> </ul> Istanbul: Edirne Highlights - 11 hours <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">An English speaking private lecturer/guide will meet you at Istanbul cruise pier at 8 am and you will be driven to Edirne (approx. 3 hours), known formerly as Adrianople and was the second capital of the Ottoman Empire. Edirne is situated in Thrace, in westernmost Turkey on the border of Greece and is known for the Selimiye Mosque, built in the 16th century by the famous architect Sinan. The mosque's main structure comprises 18 small domes dominated by a huge central dome on 8 columns with 3 balconied minarets on 4 sides.</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">The tour will include visits to Selimiye & Complex (Vakiflar), Turkish - Islamic Works Museum The works are exhibited in the room numbered 14 in Dar - ül Tedris Madrasa in the courtyard of Selimiye Mosque with the Archaeological and Ethnographical Museums, In the hand works part, there is a village kitchen, Carpet, Kilim and Rush Mat weaving looms are located and other incredible mosques such as the Yildirim Mosque, Uc Serefeli Mosque and the Beyazit II Mosque.</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Lunch will be served at local restaurant close to the sights, at your own cost.</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">There are also impressive caravanserais such as the Rustem Pasha and the lively restored Arasta and Bedesten bazaars. You may also see some beautiful Ottoman bridges in Edirne and around the area, such as Uzunkopru, which was also built by the architect Sinan. In the evening You will be transferred back to your cruise ship around 7 pm.</font></p> <p></p> <p><strong><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Added Value:</font></strong></p> <font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Great introduction to the former Ottoman capital city of Edirne</font> <p></p> <font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">The tour covers the main highlights of the city</font> <p></p> <font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><strong>Tour Duration</strong> : 10-11 hours</font> <p></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Tour can operate:</strong> Starting mornings</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Wheelchair Accessible: </strong>Partial</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Physical Activity Level: </strong>Moderate</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Included:</strong> Transportation by a cheaffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Not Included: </strong>Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses</font></p> <p></p> Istanbul - At Your Leisure Tour - 8 Hours (Provided by Travelive) <p class="style1"><strong>At Your Leisure Option: </strong>Please see below for details on this option.</p> <p>You decide where to go and what to see.</p> <p><strong>Included:</strong></p> <ul type="disc"> <li>Private Luxury Sedan with English-Speaking guide and driver for 8 hours</li> <li>Bottled water in the vehicle</li> <li>Gratuities to guide and driver*</li> </ul> <p><strong>Excluded:</strong></p> <ul type="disc"> <li>Cost of meals and refreshments other than bottled water</li> <li>Entrance fees</li> <li>Items of personal nature</li> </ul> Mileage restrictions may apply.<br /> **Gratuities have been prepaid. Additional gratuities are at guest’s discretion.	07/30/2023 09:00 AM	07/30/2023
Istanbul Optional Private Excursions Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience! Istanbul Port - Treasures of Istanbul (Full Day Tour) <div align="center"> <p><span><strong>PORT: ISTANBUL</strong></span></p> <p><span><strong>TREASURES OF ISTANBUL</strong></span></p> <p><span><strong>Full-Day Tour</strong></span></p> <p><span>Arrive in Istanbul, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for your full- day of private sightseeing.</span></p> <p><span>Your private tour of Istanbul begins with a visit to the <strong>Hippodrome</strong>, which was one of the largest chariot race grounds of the Byzantine Empire. You will take a short walk to the<strong> Blue Mosque</strong>, completed in 1616, it is a triumph of harmony, proportion and elegance. The mosque was a part of a complex also including, tombs, fountains, kitchens, and a bath. The blue Iznik Tiles covering the walls have given the mosque its popular name, Blue Mosque.</span></p> <p><span><span>Hagia Sophia Mosque</span> is mostly known as one of the most valuable and fascinating structures in the world of art and architecture. It deserves to enter to the collection of the rare works by challenging to the time. The walls of this beautiful piece of architecture are decorated with gorgeous mosaics. UNESCO accepts Hagia Sophia as The World Heritage because of architectural beauty.</span></p> <p></p> <p><span><span><em> St. Sophia is a mosque and you need to remove your shoes and cover your head, shoulders, knees. It is advised to dress respectfully during visiting.</em></span></span></p> <p><span><strong>Lunch</strong> recommended in an old Ottoman House. You can taste delicious Turkish cuisine in a lovely garden setting.</span></p> <p><span>Next, you will visit the magnificent <strong>Topkapi Palace</strong>, the residence of the sultans for almost three centuries. It is located on the promontory jutting out between the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. The construction of the Topkapi Palace was completed between 1465 and 1478. Being the imperial residence of the sultan, his court and harem, the palace was also the seat of government for the Ottoman Empire. .<br /> <br /> Last, you will continue to explore ninety-two streets of the famous<strong> Grand Bazaar</strong>. The Grand Bazaar is the largest and oldest covered Bazaar in Turkey with more than 4,000 shops. A variety of Turkish Handicrafts, Oriental carpets, rare jewels and inexpensive souvenirs all sold in small shops next to each other. The streets are named according to the trades, such as gold and silver sellers, carpet sellers, booksellers, etc<br /> At the end of your day, you will return to the port to embark your ship.</span></p> <p></p> <p><span><u><strong>Includes:</strong></u><br /> - 1 full- day of private sightseeing in Istanbul<br /> - Licensed professional guide in English language<br /> - Air- conditioned luxury vehicle with professional driver<br /> - Entrance fees to museums and sites according to the above itinerary<br /> - Bottled water provided throughout the tours<br /> - Welcome package<br /> - VAT tax</span></p> <p><span><u><strong>Not included:</strong></u><br /> - Gratuities to guide and driver<br /> - Meals that are not indicated on the itinerary<br /> - Personal expenses of the guests<br /> - Recommended lunch</span></p> </div> <!-- Facebook Badge START --> <div><a href="https://www.facebook.com/seasongtours" target="_TOP" title="Sea Song Tours"><!-- Facebook Badge END --></a></div> Istanbul Port - Byzantine Highlights- (Half Day Tour) <div align="center"> <p><span><strong>PORT: ISTANBUL<br /> BYZANTINE HIGHLIGHTS<br /> Half-Day Tour</strong></span></p> <p><br /> <span>Arrive in Istanbul, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for your half day Byzantine Highlights tour.</span></p> <p><span>First, your private tour of Istanbul begins with a visit to the <strong>Hippodrome</strong>, which was one of the largest chariot race grounds of the Byzantine Empire.</span></p> <p><span><span>Hagia Sophia Mosque</span> is mostly known as one of the most valuable and fascinating structures in the world of art and architecture. It deserves to enter to the collection of the rare works by challenging to the time. The walls of this beautiful piece of architecture are decorated with gorgeous mosaics. UNESCO accepts Hagia Sophia as The World Heritage because of architectural beauty.</span></p> <p></p> <p><span><span><em> St. Sophia is a mosque and you need to remove your shoes and cover your head, shoulders, knees. It is advised to dress respectfully during visiting.</em></span></span></p> <p><span>Then, you will visit the<strong> Underground Cistern</strong>, a fiant reservoir built by Justinian in the 6th century to bring water to the city to be used in the palaces. It is 70 meters wide and 140 meters long, with a capacity of 80,000 cubic meters of water. It has 336 beautiful columns that support the cistern, two of which are carved with the head of Medusa on the plinth.</span></p> <p><span>Last, you continue to explore ninety- two streets of the famous <strong>Grand Bazaar</strong>, the largest and oldest covered Bazaar in Turkey with more than 4,000 shops. A variety of Turkish Handicrafts, Oriental carpets, rare jewels and inexpensive souvenirs all sold in small shops next to each other.</span></p> <p><span>At the end your morning experience at 1:00pm, you will return to the port and embark your ship.</span></p> <p></p> <p><span><u><strong>Includes:</strong></u><br /> - 1 half-day of private sightseeing in Istanbul<br /> - Licensed professional guide in English language<br /> - Entrance fees to museums and sites according to the above itinerary<br /> - Private Air-conditioned VIP vehicle with professional driver<br /> - Bottled water provided throughout the tours<br /> - Welcome Package<br /> - VAT taxes</span></p> <p><span><u><strong>Not included:</strong></u><br /> - Gratuities to guide and driver<br /> - Personal expenses of the guests<br /> - Meals that are not indicated on the itinerary</span></p> </div> <!-- Facebook Badge START --> <div><a href="https://www.facebook.com/seasongtours" target="_TOP" title="Sea Song Tours"><!-- Facebook Badge END --></a></div> Istanbul Port - Cultural Istanbul-(Full Day Tour) <div align="center"> <p><strong>PORT: ISTANBUL<br /> CULTURAL ISTANBUL<br /> Private Full-Day Tour</strong></p> <p><span><span>Arrive in Istanbul, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for your private full- day sightseeing.</span></span></p> <p><span><span>First, you will visit the <strong>Suleymaniye Mosque</strong>. Built by the great Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan on the order of Sultan Suleiman I (Suleiman the Magnificent), the Suleymaniye Mosque dominates the third hill of old Istanbul, and is strikingly graceful and less ornate than many other imperial mosques, thus lending itself to meditation and quiet reflection.</span></span></p> <p><span><span>Next, you will visit the <strong>Church of St. Saviour in Chora</strong>. After St. Sophia, St.Saviour Chora is the most important Byzantine Church in the city. It was built in the 11th century AD. The walls are decorated with breathtaking 14th century AD frescoes and mosaics. The mosaics relate to the life story of Virgin Mary and the life of Christ.</span></span></p> <p font-size:="" sans="" source="" text-align:=""><span>Lunch recommended at <span>Hamdi Restaurant</span> serving traditional Turkish Kebaps.</span><br /> <br /> <span>Then, you will discover the</span><strong> Egyptian Bazaar</strong><span>; the second largest covered market in Istanbul. It was constructed in the 1660s as part of the Yeni Camii (New Mosque) complex. The name derives from the herbs, and spices imported from or through Egypt. It is still the best place to buy Turkish delight, dried fruit, exotic spices and herbs.</span></p> <p><span><span>You will continue to explore ninety-two streets of the famous <strong>Grand Bazaar</strong>. The Grand Bazaar is the largest and oldest covered Bazaar in Turkey with more than 4,000 shops. A variety of Turkish Handicrafts, Oriental carpets, rare jewels and inexpensive souvenirs all sold in small shops next to each other. The streets are named according to the trades, such as gold and silver sellers, carpet sellers, booksellers, etc.<br /> <br /> <span>Visit the 16th Century palace of the Sultan’s Grand Vizier, Ibrahim Pasa, which today houses the <strong>Turkish and</strong> <strong>Islamic Art</strong> <strong>Museum</strong>.  The museum contains what many consider to be the finest collection of Islamic artifacts in the world. The museum is well laid out and contains more rare examples of ceramics, Koran cases, calligraphy, textiles, metalwork and illuminated manuscripts. Its antique carpet exhibit is renowned; the carpets, kilims and prayer rugs form one of the richest and oldest collections in the world. </span></span></span><br />  </p> <p><span><span>At the end of your day, you will return to the port to embark your ship.</span></span><br />  </p> <p></p> <p><span><span><strong><u>Includes:</u></strong><br /> - 1 full- day of private sightseeing in Istanbul<br /> - Air- conditioned luxury VIP vehicle with a professional driver<br /> - Licensed professional guide in English language<br /> - Entrance fees to museums and sites according to the above itinerary<br /> - Bottled water provided on the vehicles.<br /> - Welcome package<br /> - VAT taxes</span></span></p> <p></p> <p><span><span><u><strong>Not included:</strong></u><br /> - Gratuities to guide and driver<br /> - Personal expenses of the guests<br /> - Meals that are not indicated on the itinerary<br /> - Recommended lunch<span id="cke_bm_143E"> </span><span id="cke_bm_124E"> </span><span id="cke_bm_179E"> </span><span id="cke_bm_178E"> </span></span></span></p> </div> <div><!-- Facebook Badge START --></div> <div><a href="https://www.facebook.com/seasongtours" target="_TOP" title="Sea Song Tours"><!-- Facebook Badge END --></a></div> Istanbul Port - Ottoman Collection - (Half-Day Tour) <p></p> <div> <div align="center"> <p><span><strong><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">PORT: ISTANBUL<br /> OTTOMAN COLLECTION<br /> Half - Day Tour</font></strong></span></p> <p><span><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Arrive in Istanbul, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for a half - day Ottoman Collection tour.</font></span></p> <p><span><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Your private tour of Istanbul begins with a visit to the <strong>Blue Mosque</strong>, completed in 1616, it is a triumph of harmony, proportion and elegance. The mosque was a part of a complex also including, tombs, fountains, kitchens, and a bath. The blue Iznik Tiles covering the walls have given the mosque its popular name, Blue Mosque.</font></span></p> <p><span><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Next, you will visit the magnificent<strong> Topkapi Palace</strong>, the residence of the sultans for almost three centuries. It is located on the promontory jutting out between the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. The construction of the Topkapi Palace was completed between 1465 and 1478. Being the imperial residence of the sultan, his court and harem, the palace was also the seat of government for the Ottoman Empire. </font></span></p> <p><span><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Last, you will continue to explore ninety- two streets of the famous <strong>Grand Bazaar</strong>. The Grand Bazaar is the largest and oldest covered Bazaar in Turkey with more than 4,000 shops. A variety of Turkish Handicrafts, Oriental carpets, rare jewels and inexpensive souvenirs all sold in small shops next to each other. The streets are named according to the trades, such as gold and silver sellers, carpet sellers, booksellers, etc</font></span></p> <p><span><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">At the end of your morning visits approximately at 1:00pm, you will return to the port to embark your ship.</font></span></p> <p></p> <p><span><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><u><strong>Includes:</strong></u><br /> - 1 half-day of private sightseeing in Istanbul<br /> - Licensed professional guide in English language<br /> - Entrance fees to museums and sites according to the above itinerary<br /> - Private Air-conditioned VIP vehicle with professional driver<br /> - Welcome Package<br /> - Bottled water provided throughout the tours<br /> - VAT taxes</font></span></p> <p><span><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><u><strong>Not included:</strong></u><br /> - Gratuities to guide and driver</font><br /> - Personal expenses of the guests<br /> - Meals that are not indicated on the itinerary</span></p> </div> <!-- Facebook Badge START --><a href="https://www.facebook.com/seasongtours" target="_TOP" title="Sea Song Tours"><!-- Facebook Badge END --></a></div> <div></div> Istanbul: Highlights - 7 hours <div><span><span> An English speaking officially licenced lecturer/guide will meet the guests at the exit of the Istanbul cruise pier at 08:30 am, with a sign reading their names, for a private sightseeing tour of Istanbul. </span></span> <p><span><span>The private tour program will start with the Roman Hippodrome that was a colossal stadium housing horse races around which the socio-political life of the Roman capital was centered. In its great days, it was 1575 feet long, 384 feet wide and held 100,000 spectators. It was the site of chariot racing, gladiator fights, circuses, inaugurations and triumphal parades.</span></span></p> <p><span><span>The tour will continue with a visit to the Blue Mosque- the masterpiece of 17th century Ottoman Architecture, famous for its unique hand made original Iznik Tiles impressing the guests with their rich dominant blue colors and oriental patterns. They have become collectors’ items today, auctioned at celebrated houses like the Sotheby’s.</span></span></p> <p><span><span>Next visit will be to the Topkapi Palace and its Imperial Treasury Section that was the center of Ottoman Empire’s Government Seat ruling most of the Middle East and the Eastern Europe from this palace for 500 years. </span></span></p> <p><span><span>Lunch will be served at a recommended local/select restaurants close to the sites. </span></span></p> <p><span><span>In the afternoon, visit the World famous Hagia Sophia (The Church of Divine Wisdom), one of the extraordinary masterpieces in the history of World architecture. When a previous church on this site was burned during the Nikka Revolt in 532, Justinian ordered his architect, Isidorus, to build a structure worthy of his empire. Hagia Sophia was completed in only five years and was dedicated on Christmas Day of 537. The building inspired countless generations by its innovations in weight support and construction techniques and what a dome it was: the popular belief was that ‘the dome was suspended from Heaven by an invisible golden chain’. In reality it was work of men, but a worldly simulator of the Heavens</span></span></p> <p><span><span>Finally, visit the Grand Bazaar, more dazzling than any other oriental bazaar, built in 1461 and in service ever since. It contains 3,500 shops employing more than 20,000 people all under one roof. Everything imaginable in the world is for sale here, glittering gold and silver jewelry, antique tiles, leather, and souvenirs. Just seeing and experiencing this fascinating bazaar is a memorable experience.</span></span></p> <p><span><span>At the end of today’s private tour, the guests will be transferred back to the cruise pier.</span></span></p> <ul> <li><span><span>Closed weekly days for sites/museums:</span></span></li> <li><span><span>St. Sophia is closed on Mondays</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays and official holidays.</span></span></li> </ul> <p><span><span><strong>Highlights: </strong></span></span></p> <ul> <li><span><span>Great introduction to Istanbul's history and culture</span></span></li> </ul> <p></p> <ul> <li><span><span>The tour covers the main highlights of the city</span></span></li> </ul> <span><span> <strong>Tour Duration :</strong> 7 hours</span></span> <p><span><span><strong>Tour can operate:</strong> Starting mornings</span></span></p> <p><span><span><strong>Wheelchair Accessible:</strong> Partial</span></span></p> <p><span><span><strong>Physical Activity Level: </strong>Moderate</span></span></p> <p><span><span><strong>Included:</strong> Transportation by a chauffeur driven a/c private vehicle, licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums</span></span></p> <p><span><span><strong>Not Included:</strong> Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses</span></span></p> </div> <div></div> Istanbul: Jewish Heritage Tour - 7 hours <span><span>An English speaking officially licenced lecturer/guide will meet the guests at the exit of the Istanbul cruise pier at 09:00 am, with a sign reading their names, for a private sightseeing tour of Istanbul. </span></span> <p><span><span>First visit of the day is to the Galata Tower which was built in 1303 by immigrants from Genoa, Italy. While sipping your Turkish coffee there, you will be amazed at the spectacular view of the Golden Horn and the old buildings located on its shores depicting how Istanbul looked hundreds years ago.<br /> The private tour will continue with a visit to the Neve Shalom and the oldest Synagogue in Istanbul- the Ahrida Synagogue, built around 1470 by Jewish immigrants from Macedonia.<br /> Lunch will be served at a local restaurant close to the sites.<br /> <br /> The guests will be then taken to the Jewish Museum of Turkey. There is evidence that this building as a former synagogue existed in 1671. However the actual building was re-erected over its original foundations presumably in the early 19th Century. Zulfaris Synagogue has opened its doors as the Jewish museum in 2001. Continue to visit the Balat section, where the Star of David appears.<br /> <br /> At the end of the day,a private lecturer/guide will take the guests back to the cruise pier.<br /> <br /> Closed weekly days for sites/museums:<br /> • Synagogues are closed on Saturdays and Sunday<br /> * Neve Shalon Synagogue is closed on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays<br /> • Zulfaris Synagogue (Jewish Museum) is closed on Saturdays.</span></span></p> <p></p> <p><span><span>* Please forward us a copy of your guests’ passport page with the photo, as required by the Chief Rabbi of Istanbul, to obtain His official approval for the synagogue visits in Turkey.</span></span></p> <p></p> <p><span><span><strong>Added Value: </strong></span></span></p> <span><span> Great introduction to Istanbul's Jewish history and culture</span></span> <p></p> <span><span> The tour covers the main highlights of the Jewish Heritage in Istanbul</span></span> <p></p> <span><span> <strong>Tour Duration </strong>: 7 hours</span></span> <p></p> <p><span><span><strong>Tour can operate:</strong> Starting mornings</span></span></p> <p><span><span><strong>Wheelchair Accessible</strong>: Partial</span></span></p> <p><span><span><strong>Physical Activity Level: </strong>Moderate</span></span></p> <p><span><span><strong>Included: </strong>Transportation by a cheaffeur driven a/c private vehicle, a licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums</span></span></p> <p><span><span><strong>Not Included:</strong> Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses</span></span></p> <p></p> Istanbul: Private Art Collections - 7 hours <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">An English speaking private lecturer/guide will meet you at at the Istanbul cruise pier at 9 am for departure by chauffeur driven a/c deluxe minivan, to start your private sightseeing tour of Istanbul.</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Today’s private tour will start with a visit to the Istanbul Modern Museum of Art, situated at the shores of the Bosphorus. Istanbul Modern Museum of Art exhibits Turkey’s art heritage, and creates a platform for Turkish peoples’ creativity, dynamism, cultural identity and universal values.</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">A drive along the scenic Bosphorus Avenue will take you to the Family Villa of the Sabanci’s, the Internationally successful Turkish industrialist, now housing Mr. Sabanci’s lifetime collection of rare art pieces and celebrated paintings by Int’l and local masters, displayed in his former Family Home, recently donated to his Foundation as a Private Museum.</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Lunch will be served at a local seafood restaurant by the shores of the Bosphorus (at your own discretion and cost). </font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">After lunch, you will visit Private Museum of Lady Sadberk, donated to the nation by art-loving wife of Vehbi Koc, another leading industrialist. The beautiful, late-Ottoman wooden mansion contains a fabulous collection of Turkish arts and crafts, including jewelry, silverware, and Iznik ceramics of the classic period.</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">At the end of the tour, you will be transferred to your hotel/cruise pier by 4 pm.</font></p> <p><strong><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Closed weekly days for sites/museums:</font></strong></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">• Istanbul Modern Museum is closed on Mondays.</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">• Sabanci: Museum is closed on Mondays. </font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">• Lady Sadberk Han Museum is closed on Wednesdays.</font></font></p> <p></p> <p><br /> <strong><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Added Value: </font></strong></p> <font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Great introduction to Istanbul's art culture</font> <p></p> <font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">The tour covers the main highlights of art in the city</font> <p></p> <font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Tour Duration : </strong>7 hours</font> <p></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Tour can operate</strong>: Starting mornings</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Wheelchair Accessible: </strong>Partial</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Physical Activity Level:</strong> Moderate</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Included:</strong> Transportation by a chaeffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Not Included:</strong> Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses</font></p> <p></p> Istanbul: Private Yacht Cruise along the Bosphorus - 7 hours <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">An English speaking officially licensed lecturer/guide will meet the guests at the Istanbul cruise pier at 09:00 am for a private sightseeing tour of Istanbul.</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Today’s tour will start with a visit to the Dolmabahce Palace- the largest and the finest example of Ottoman Baroque Architecture, a monument to the Ottomans’ westernization process in the 19th century. The Ottoman response to the overwhelming changes in the post-renaissance world was rapid westernization, initiated in the imperial lifestyle at first that gave way to the creation of a series of baroque-style European-fashion palaces on the shores of the Bosphorus. </font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">You will then board a private boat for a cruise on the Bosphorus against the majestic skyline of Istanbul. Your private boat will cruise along the romantic Bosphorus visiting both the Europe Side and the Asia Side of Istanbul by the shores of local fishing villages, en route when it is possible to take memorable photos of the fascinating environments including the 15th century Rumelihisar? Fortress, the Summer Palaces of Lady Ottoman Sultans, and the historical Wooden Houses (Yalis) of famous Turkish families. The cruise ends on the Asian side of Istanbul.</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Lunch will be served at a local seafood restaurants in Kanlica Village by the Bosphorus.</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">After lunch, you will proceed to the top of the Grand Camlica Hill, where you will enjoy the panoramic view of the European side of Istanbul. </font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Your private tour will continue with a visit to the Beylerbeyi Palace, the residence of the Ottoman Sultans in late 19th and early 20th century. </font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">After this visit, a scenic drive on the Asian shores of the Bosphorus will take you to the Kanlica Village where you will have a taste of the famous “local yogurt” and “apple tea” in a local café by the Bosphorus. </font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">At the end of the day, the lecturer/guide will take the guests back to the hotel/cruise ship by 4 pm.</font></p> <p><strong><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Closed weekly days for sites/museums:</font></strong></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">• Dolmabahçe Palace is closed on Mondays and Thursdays.</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">• Beylerbeyi Palace is closed on Mondays and Thursdays.</font></p> <p></p> <p><br /> <font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Added Value:</strong> </font></p> <font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Great introduction to Istanbul's history and culture</font> <p></p> <font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Tour Duration :</strong> 7 hours</font> <p></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Tour can operate:</strong> Starting mornings</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Wheelchair Accessible</strong>: No</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Physical Activity Level</strong>: Moderate</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Included:</strong> Transportation by a chauffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Not Included:</strong> Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses</font></p> <p></p> Istanbul: The 16th Century Masterpieces of Sinan the Architect - 7 hours <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Your English speaking private guide will meet you at the Istanbul cruise pier at 9 am for a private full day sightseeing tour of Sinan the architect’s Istanbul buildings.</font></p> <p></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">The private tour will start with a visit to Rustem Pasha Mosque. It was designed by famous “Sinan the Architect” for Grand Vizier Rustem Pasha. Rustem Pasha Mosque is famous for its exquisite Iznik tiles, set in beautiful floral and geometric designs, which cover not only the facade of the porch but also the walls and columns.</font></p> <p></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Continue to Mosque of Suleyman the Magnificent, which is the most important of all the imperial mosques in Istanbul. Suleyman the Magnificent and his wife are both buried here and the mosque is considered the most beautiful of the city’s Imperial mosques. It was built between 1550 and 1557 by Sinan, and is erected on the crest of a hill. The mosque is conspicuous by its great size, and has four minarets – one in each corner of the courtyard. The interior is also spectacular; the mihrab (prayer niche facing Mecca) and the mimber (pulpit) are finely carved in white marble, and there are magnificent stained glass windows.</font></p> <p></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Lunch will be served at a local restaurant close to the sights (at your own discretion and cost).</font></p> <p></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">In the afternoon, you will visit the Mihrimah Sultan Mosque located in the Edirnekapi neighborhood near the Byzantine city walls. Located on the peak of the Sixth Hill near the highest point of the city, the mosque is a prominent landmark in Istanbul. The Mihrimah Sultan Mosque was designed by "Sinan the Architect" for the favorite daughter of Suleiman the Magnificent, Princess Mihrimah.</font></p> <p></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Last visit of the day will be to the Sehzade Mosque which was commissioned by Sultan Suleiman in memory of his eldest son by Hürrem, Prince Mehmet, who died the age of 21. It was the first major commission by the Imperial Architect Sinan and was completed in 1548. It is considered by architectural historians as Sinan's first masterpiece of classical Ottoman architecture.</font></p> <p></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">At the end of the tour, you will be transferred to your hotel/cruise ship by 4 pm.</font></p> <p></p> <p><strong><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Added Value: </font></strong></p> <font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Great introduction to Sinan the Architect's masterpieces</font> <p></p> <font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">The tour covers the masterpieces of Sinan the Architect in Istanbul</font> <p></p> <font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Tour Duration :</strong> 7 hours</font> <p></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Tour can operate:</strong> Starting mornings</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Wheelchair Accessible</strong>: Partial</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Physical Activity Level: </strong>Moderate</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Included:</strong> Transportation by a chauffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Not Included:</strong> Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses</font></p> <p></p> Istanbul Full Day Sightseeing plus Private Bosphorus Cruise - 8 hours <span><span><strong>Highlights/Description:</strong></span></span> <ul> <li><span><span>Dolmabahce Palace</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Cruise on Bosphorus</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Rüstem Pasha Mosque</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Spice Bazaar</span></span></li> </ul> <span><span>  <br /> Your English-speaking, private guide will meet you at the cruise pier for your full day sightseeing tour of Istanbul.<br />  <br /> First, you will proceed to explore the 19th Century Dolmabahce Palace to experience its eclectic style of architecture with Baroque and Rococo touch. Compared to Topkap? Palace, Dolmabahçe is more westernized in its architectural style. You will enjoy its elaborate interior decoration.<br />  <br /> You will next board a private motor yacht for a relaxing cruise on the Bosphorus, which has been a geopolitically important strait between Europe and Asia connecting the Black Sea to the Marmara Sea. You will pass by some magnificent palaces, old mansions and fortresses.<br />  <br /> Next, you will see the Rüstem Pasha Mosque, which is among the city's architectural gems. This is the first example of the great Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan building a mosque to an octagonal plan. Beautifully proportioned and the interior is covered in some of the most exquisite Iznik tiles ever produced. The tiles, made at the height of Iznik's supremacy, have a good deal of the famous red color that was the envy of other tile makers (blue, yellow, white and green were easy colors to produce, but red was extraordinarily difficult.<br />  <br /> You will explore the Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar). It was constructed in the 17th Century as a part of the New Mosque complex. This oriental market is the best place to buy Turkish delight, exotic spices, herbs, Turkish coffee and tea.<br />  <br /> Before you will be transferred back to the port, your guide will take you to the backstreets of the Spice Bazaar to taste a traditional Ottoman drink: Boza (fermented millet) at the famous Vefa Bozacisi.<br />  <br /> At the end of the tour, your private guide will transfer you back to your hotel or cruise pier.<br />  <br /> <strong>Tour Duration: </strong>8 Hours<br /> <strong>Tour can operate:</strong> Morning<br /> <strong>Wheelchair Accessible:</strong> No<br /> <strong>Physical Activity Level:</strong> Moderate<br /> <strong>Inclusions:</strong></span></span> <ul> <li><span><span>Officially licensed, private guide</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Transfers to/from port in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Parking fees and entrance fees of the sites/museums stated in the tour program</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Bottled water</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Welcome package</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Applicable taxes</span></span></li> </ul> <span><span> <strong>Not Included: </strong></span></span> <ul> <li><span><span>Meals, unless otherwise noted</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Gratuities</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Personal expenses</span></span></li> </ul> Jewish Heritage Half Day Tour (Istanbul) - 4 hours <span><span><strong>Highlights/Description:</strong></span></span> <ul> <li><span><span>Galata Quarter</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Ahrida Synagogue</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Jewish Museum</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Grand Bazaar</span></span></li> </ul> <span><span> <br /> Your English-speaking, private guide will meet you at the cruise pier for your half day sightseeing tour of Istanbul.<br />  <br /> Your private tour will start with a visit to the old Galata Quarter, a Jewish quarter for centuries. Visit to the Galata Tower, which was built in 1303 by immigrants from Genoa, Italy. A medieval stone tower in the heart of Pera quarter just to the north of the Golden Horn. One of the city's most striking landmarks, it is a high, cone-capped cylinder that dominates the skyline and affords a panoramic vista of Old Istanbul and its environs. You will enjoy the spectacular view of the city.<br />  <br /> Next visit will be to the Ottoman Baroque style Ahrida Synagogue originally built in the 15th century and is the earliest synagogue in Istanbul.  The original 20-foot long oak bimah (teva), shaped either like Noah’s Ark or, like the Ottoman ship which brought the Sephardim to freedom from Spain to Turkey, can still be seen. <br />  <br /> Your private tour will continue with a visit to the Jewish Museum of Turkey, which is housed in the former Zulfaris Synagogue, aims to “collect, preserve, exhibit, interpret and disseminate knowledge about the cultural heritage of the Turkish Jews.” It captures 700 years of amiable relations between Jews and Turks, beginning in 1326 with the Ottoman conquest of Bursa. The building itself dates from the early 19th century, although there is evidence of a Synagogue in the same spot in the 17th century. The Synagogue functioned as a place of worship for over a century, and was reopened as the Quincentenial Foundation Museum of Turkish Jews (Jewish Museum of Turkey) in 2001.The Museum contains various exhibits relating to Jewish history in Istanbul and is fitted with information panels, maps and some touch screen information booths.<br />  <br /> Lastly visit the famous Grand Bazaar, the largest and the oldest covered Bazaar in this part of the world with more than 4000 small shops. You will see a great variety of Turkish handicrafts, handmade oriental carpets, jewelry and many souvenirs within the old market.<br />  <br /> At the end of your tour, you will be transferred back to the cruise pier.<br />  <br /> <strong>Tour Duration: </strong>4 Hours<br /> <strong>Tour can operate:</strong> Morning or Afternoon (not available on the Sabbath or Jewish Holidays)<br /> <strong>Wheelchair Accessible:</strong> No<br /> <strong>Physical Activity Level:</strong> Moderate<br /> <br /> <strong>Inclusions:</strong></span></span> <ul> <li><span><span>Officially licensed, private guide</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Transfers to/from port in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Parking fees and entrance fees of the sites/museums stated in the tour program</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Bottled water</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Welcome package</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Applicable taxes</span></span></li> </ul> <span><span><strong>Not Included: </strong></span></span> <ul> <li><span><span>Meals, unless otherwise noted</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Gratuities</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Personal expenses</span></span></li> </ul> Old City of Istanbul Full Day Tour - 8 hours <span><span><strong>Highlights/Description:</strong></span></span> <ul> <li><span><span>Roman Hippodrome and Egyptian Obelisk</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Blue Mosque</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Haghia Sophia</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Topkapi Palace</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Basilica Cistern</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Grand Bazaar</span></span></li> </ul> <span><span> <br /> Your English-speaking, private guide will meet you at the cruise pier for your full day sightseeing tour of Istanbul with a deluxe air-conditioned mini-van.<br />  <br /> You will first visit the Roman Hippodrome, along with the Egyptian Obelisk, and then proceed to the Blue Mosque, which was built in between 1609-1616. The Blue tiles cover the walls have given its popular name “Blue Mosque”.<br />  <br /> Next visit will be to one of the great monumental buildings of the world Haghia Sophia that was built by Emperor Justinian in 537. It has remained as the greatest church until the conquest of Constantinople in 1453 by the Ottoman Sultan Mehmet II. The great dome and its gallery were covered with gold mosaics and still survive.<br />  <br /> Proceed to the magnificent Topkap? Palace, which has been the residence of the Ottoman Sultans for almost four centuries. Besides being the residence of the Sultan and his family, Topkap? was also the seat of the Ottoman Divan. 5000 people lived in the palace. You will see the Sultan’s Treasury and the Holy Relics exhibition.<br />  <br /> You will continue to the Underground Cistern (Basilica Cistern), which is the most unusual structure in the city. This was a vital part of defense system of the city as a big water reservoir, which can hold 18 million gallons of water.<br />  <br /> Lastly visit the famous Grand Bazaar, the largest and the oldest covered Bazaar in this part of the world with more than 4000 small shops. You will see a great variety of Turkish handicrafts, handmade oriental carpets, jewelry and many souvenirs within the old market.<br />  <br /> Before you are transferred back to your hotel or the cruise pier, you will visit the best baklava factory to taste this awesome dessert.<br />  <br /> At the end of your tour, you will be transferred back to the cruise pier.<br />  <br /> <strong>Tour Duration: </strong>8 Hours<br /> <strong>Tour can operate:</strong> Morning<br /> <strong>Wheelchair Accessible:</strong> No<br /> <strong>Physical Activity Level:</strong> Moderate<br /> <br /> <strong>Inclusions:</strong></span></span> <ul> <li><span><span>Officially licensed, private guide</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Transfers to/from port in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Parking fees and entrance fees of the sites/museums stated in the tour program</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Bottled water</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Welcome package</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Applicable taxes</span></span></li> </ul> <span><span><strong>Not Included: </strong></span></span> <ul> <li><span><span>Meals, unless otherwise noted</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Gratuities</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Personal expenses</span></span></li> </ul> Old City of Istanbul Half Day Tour - 4 hours <span><span><strong>Highlights/Description:</strong></span></span> <ul> <li><span><span>Roman Hippodrome</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Egyptian Obelisk</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Blue Mosque</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Haghia Sophia –OR– Topkapi Palace</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Grand Bazaar</span></span></li> </ul> <span><span> <br /> Your English-speaking, private guide will meet you at the cruise pier for your half day sightseeing tour of Istanbul with a deluxe air-conditioned mini-van.<br />  <br /> You will first visit the Roman Hippodrome, along with the Egyptian Obelisk, and then proceed to the Blue Mosque, which was built in between 1609-1616. The Blue tiles cover the walls have given its popular name “Blue Mosque”.<br />  <br /> Next visit will be to one of the great monumental buildings of the world Haghia Sophia that was built by Emperor Justinian in 537. It has remained as the greatest church until the conquest of Constantinople in 1453 by the Ottoman Sultan Mehmet II. The great dome and its gallery were covered with gold mosaics and still survive.<br />  <br /> <strong><em>OR </em></strong><br />  <br /> Next visit will be to the magnificent Topkap? Palace, which has been the residence of the Ottoman Sultans for almost four centuries. Besides being the residence of the Sultan and his family, Topkap? was also the seat of the Ottoman Divan. 5000 people lived in the palace. You will see the Sultan’s Treasury and the Holy Relics exhibition.<br />  <br /> Lastly visit the famous Grand Bazaar, the largest and the oldest covered Bazaar in this part of the world with more than 4000 small shops. You will see a great variety of Turkish handicrafts, handmade oriental carpets, jewelry and many souvenirs within the old market.<br />  <br /> At the end of your tour, you will be transferred back to the cruise pier.<br />  <br /> You have the option to choose Topkapi Palace or St. Sophia<br />  <br /> <strong>Tour Duration: </strong>4 Hours<br /> <strong>Tour can operate:</strong> Morning<br /> <strong>Wheelchair Accessible:</strong> No<br /> <strong>Physical Activity Level:</strong> Moderate<br /> <br /> <strong>Inclusions:</strong></span></span> <ul> <li><span><span>Officially licensed, private guide</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Transfers to/from port in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Parking fees and entrance fees of the sites/museums stated in the tour program</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Bottled water</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Welcome package</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Applicable taxes</span></span></li> </ul> <span><span><strong>Not Included: </strong></span></span> <ul> <li><span><span>Meals, unless otherwise noted</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Gratuities</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Personal expenses</span></span></li> </ul> Istanbul Port - Private Bosphorus Cruise (Half Day) <div><span>Arrive in Istanbul, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for your private cruise on the Bosphorus and visit to Grand Bazaar. <br /> <br /> <span>You will transfer to pier to embark your <strong>private yacht </strong>for <strong>an exciting cruise on the </strong></span><strong>Bosphorus</strong>, the narrow strait of water separating the Asian and European continents and the lifeblood of Istanbul.  Passing along the shores of the Bosphorus you will view magnificent palaces, restored Ottoman villas, impressive fortresses and the waterside residences of Istanbul’s elite.  Enjoy soft drinks tea and coffee on the motor yacht and see a different perspective of Istanbul, described by a Byzantine visitor in the 12<sup>th</sup> century as “the city of the world’s desire”. Cruise takes approximately 1½hours.<br />  <br /> Then, you will visit the <strong>Grand Bazaar</strong>, the largest and oldest covered Bazaar in Turkey with more than 4,000 shops. A variety of handicrafts, carpets, rare jewels and souvenirs all sold in small shops next to each other. The merchants are selling everything from antiques, home wares, books, copper ware, ceramics, gold and inexpensive souvenirs. Venture into the hidden courtyards or hans, lookout for marble fountains and ornate kiosks.  Streets are named according to the trades and the most oriental atmosphere in Istanbul is found in the bazaar.<br />  <br /> <span>At the end of your experience, approximately at 1:00pm, you will return to the port to embark your ship.</span><br />  <br /> <strong trebuchet=""><u><span>Inclusions:</span></u></strong></span></div> <ul trebuchet=""> <li><span><span>1 half day of sightseeing in a deluxe air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver.</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Services of an officially licensed, English speaking guide throughout the tour program.</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Bosphorus cruise on a private yacht for 1½ hours.</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Bottled water provided through the tour. </span></span></li> <li><span><span>Welcome Package.</span></span></li> <li><span><span>VAT taxes.</span></span></li> </ul> <div><br trebuchet="" /> <span><strong trebuchet=""><u><span>Exclusions:</span></u></strong></span></div> <ul trebuchet=""> <li><span><span>Gratuities to the Guide & Driver</span></span> <ul> <li><span><span> At the discretion of the guests</span></span></li> </ul> </li> <li><span><span>Personal expenses of the guests</span></span></li> </ul> Istanbul Port - Private Cooking Class in a Local Home with Market Visit <div><span><span>Arrive in Istanbul,  you will meet your professional guide, outside of the terminal building at the port for your private cooking class experience at Turkish Flavours.<br />  <br /> First you will embark on a culinary tour in the  <strong>Spice Market</strong>, you will stop at one of the most famous spice shops and taste the different spices that you will use during your class.  After your culinary tour in the Spice Market, you will take a local ferry to <strong>Kadikoy</strong>, on the Asian side of Istanbul  to transfer to the local home.<br />  </span></span> <p><span>You will enjoy the workshop for your <strong>cooking experience</strong>. You will cook some traditional Turkish food with a professional chef. You will have lunch with the food you prepared and have a chance to taste what you have cooked with local wine. </span><span>Put your chef hats on and get cooking! Learn authentic recipes from local experts & chefs on a one of a kind private cooking class in Istanbul.</span></p> <br /> <span><span> At the end of your experience, you will return to the port .<br /> <br /> <b><u>Inclusions:</u></b></span></span></div> <ul trebuchet=""> <li><span><span>Private Cooking Class experience.</span></span></li> <li><span><span>A deluxe air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver </span></span></li> <li><span><span><span>Private chauffeur driven a/c deluxe vehicle throughout the program.</span></span></span></li> <li><span><span>Services of an officially licensed, English speaking guide throughout the tour program.</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Local ferry tickets.</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Bottled water provided throughout the tour. </span></span></li> <li><span><span>Welcome Package.</span></span></li> <li><span><span>VAT taxes.</span></span></li> </ul> <div><span><span><strong trebuchet=""><u>Exclusions:</u></strong></span></span></div> <ul trebuchet=""> <li><span><span>Gratuities to the Guide & Driver</span></span> <ul> <li><span><span> At the discretion of the guests</span></span></li> </ul> </li> <li><span><span>Personal expenses of the guests</span></span></li> </ul> Istanbul Port - Private Culinary Walking Tour ( Half Day Tour) <div><span><span>Arrive in Istanbul, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for your half day culinary adventure through the Spice Bazaar. <br /> <br /> You will visit the <strong>Egyptian Bazaar,</strong> the second largest covered market in Istanbul.  It was constructed in the 1660s as part of the Yeni Camii (New Mosque) complex. The name derives from the herbs, and spices imported from or through Egypt. It is still the best place to buy Turkish delight, dried fruit, exotic spices, herbs, nuts, Turkish apricots and  cavier.  Around the bazaar , you can also find the cheese shops, fruits and vegetables. <br />  <br /> After your experience, you can have a break at one of the Turkish tea shops in the bazaar area and enjoy a Turkish or herbal tea.<br />  <br /> At the end of your morning visits approximately at 1:00pm, you will return to the port.<br />  <br /> Afternoon at leisure.<br />  <br trebuchet="" /> <strong trebuchet=""><u>Inclusions:</u></strong></span></span></div> <ul trebuchet=""> <li><span><span>1 half day of sightseeing in a deluxe air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver.</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Licensed professional guide in English language.</span></span></li> </ul> <ul trebuchet=""> <li><span><span>Services of Sea Song Tour’s English speaking, officially licensed guide throughout the tour program.</span></span></li> </ul> <ul trebuchet=""> <li><span><span>Entrance fees to all museums, parks, and historic sites as marked on the itinerary.</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Bottled water provided through the tour. </span></span></li> <li><span><span>Welcome Package.</span></span></li> <li><span><span>VAT taxes.</span></span></li> </ul> <div><span><span><strong trebuchet=""><u>Exclusions: </u></strong></span></span></div> <ul trebuchet=""> <li><span><span>Gratuities to the Guide & Driver</span></span> <ul> <li><span><span> At the discretion of the guests</span></span></li> </ul> </li> <li><span><span>Personal expenses of the guests</span></span></li> </ul> Istanbul: Edirne Highlights - 11 hours <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">An English speaking private lecturer/guide will meet you at Istanbul cruise pier at 8 am and you will be driven to Edirne (approx. 3 hours), known formerly as Adrianople and was the second capital of the Ottoman Empire. Edirne is situated in Thrace, in westernmost Turkey on the border of Greece and is known for the Selimiye Mosque, built in the 16th century by the famous architect Sinan. The mosque's main structure comprises 18 small domes dominated by a huge central dome on 8 columns with 3 balconied minarets on 4 sides.</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">The tour will include visits to Selimiye & Complex (Vakiflar), Turkish - Islamic Works Museum The works are exhibited in the room numbered 14 in Dar - ül Tedris Madrasa in the courtyard of Selimiye Mosque with the Archaeological and Ethnographical Museums, In the hand works part, there is a village kitchen, Carpet, Kilim and Rush Mat weaving looms are located and other incredible mosques such as the Yildirim Mosque, Uc Serefeli Mosque and the Beyazit II Mosque.</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Lunch will be served at local restaurant close to the sights, at your own cost.</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">There are also impressive caravanserais such as the Rustem Pasha and the lively restored Arasta and Bedesten bazaars. You may also see some beautiful Ottoman bridges in Edirne and around the area, such as Uzunkopru, which was also built by the architect Sinan. In the evening You will be transferred back to your cruise ship around 7 pm.</font></p> <p></p> <p><strong><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Added Value:</font></strong></p> <font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Great introduction to the former Ottoman capital city of Edirne</font> <p></p> <font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">The tour covers the main highlights of the city</font> <p></p> <font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><strong>Tour Duration</strong> : 10-11 hours</font> <p></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Tour can operate:</strong> Starting mornings</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Wheelchair Accessible: </strong>Partial</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Physical Activity Level: </strong>Moderate</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Included:</strong> Transportation by a cheaffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums</font></p> <p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Not Included: </strong>Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses</font></p> <p></p> Istanbul - At Your Leisure Tour - 8 Hours (Provided by Travelive) <p class="style1"><strong>At Your Leisure Option: </strong>Please see below for details on this option.</p> <p>You decide where to go and what to see.</p> <p><strong>Included:</strong></p> <ul type="disc"> <li>Private Luxury Sedan with English-Speaking guide and driver for 8 hours</li> <li>Bottled water in the vehicle</li> <li>Gratuities to guide and driver*</li> </ul> <p><strong>Excluded:</strong></p> <ul type="disc"> <li>Cost of meals and refreshments other than bottled water</li> <li>Entrance fees</li> <li>Items of personal nature</li> </ul> Mileage restrictions may apply.<br /> **Gratuities have been prepaid. Additional gratuities are at guest’s discretion.	07/31/2023	07/31/2023

The Azamara experience doesn't pause when you depart a destination, it continues onboard with our top-tier crew, premiere service and fleet of boutique ships.

Azamara ships are not too big, and they're not too small, so you won't run out of new things to do and new people to meet. Plus, with the newest addition to our fleet—the Azamara Onward? — you have even more choices in immersive itineraries that call on the world's most unparalleled destinations.

Ship Statistics

Year Built: 2022
Year Refurbished: –
Year Entered Present Fleet: 2022
Previous Name: –
Country of Registry: Malta
Tonnage (GRT): 30277
Guests (Lowers): 1368
Total Guests: 702
Passenger Decks: 9
Number of Crew: 408
Officers' Nationality: International
Cruise/Hotel Staff Nationality: International

Total Rooms: 342
Suites: 66
Balconies: 171
Ocean/River View: 79
Interior: 26
Accessible: 18

When you’re ready to embark on a journey with Azamara^®, be sure to pack your bags and leave the phrase, "Check, please," at home. When you travel with us, pretty much everything you could ever want is included, and amenities increase with each level of stateroom.

Inclusive Amenities for All Guests:

Complimentary AzAmazing Evenings^® event (on most voyages)
Gratuities
Select standard spirits, international beers and wines
Bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas
Self-service laundry
Shuttle service to and from port communities, where available
Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations

Additional Amenities for Veranda Plus Guests*

Complimentary Internet (120 minutes or 25% off the unlimited internet package) per guest*
One free bag of laundry service per stateroom, every seven days*
One night of complimentary specialty dining for two, each seven days
Priority embarkation and debarkation
Complimentary in-room spirits

Even More Amenities for Suite Guests

English butler service
240 complimentary Internet minutes per guest
One free bag of laundry service per suite, each seven days
Complimentary seating in the specialty restaurants dining
Priority embarkation and debarkation
Complimentary in-room spirits
In-suite afternoon tea service
$300 in Onboard Credit per person (Club World Owner’s Suites, Club Ocean Suites, Club Spa Suites categories only)

*Restrictions apply.

^{Information provided within these pages has been updated as of May 2021. While we do our best to ensure that stateroom descriptions and deckplans appearing in this website are complete and accurate, we cannot be responsible for inaccurate representations, which may or may not be under our control. Please reconfirm stateroom accommodations and deck placement prior to booking. Stateroom images and diagrams are representative of staterooms in that category and type. Some rooms in the same category may have different furniture configurations, facilities and/or window/view configuration. Room measurements are approximate.}

Suite

Balcony

Oceanview

Obstructed View

Inside

Rates are cruise only, per person, based on double occupancy and include Port Charges of :pcr:. Government Taxes, and Fees of $209.03 are additional for all guests. Rates are subject to availability and may change without notice. Restrictions may apply.

Prices are per person, based on double occupancy. Airfare, Taxes, Fees and Port Expenses are additional for all guests. Pricing for 3rd and 4th guests are available upon request and are subject to stateroom category availability. Prices change frequently and are subject to availability at time of booking. Pricing listed may not be combinable with promotions/amenities.

All fares are quoted in US Dollars.

Deck 8

Stateroom Key

Club Continent Suite (N1)
Club Continent Suite (N2)
Club Veranda Plus Stateroom (P2)
Club Veranda Plus Stateroom (P3)
Club Interior Stateroom (09)

Deck 7

Stateroom Key

Club World Owner's Suite (CW)
Club Ocean Suite (CO)
Club Veranda Plus Stateroom (P1)
Club Veranda Stateroom (V1)
Club Veranda Stateroom (V2)
Club Oceanview Stateroom (04)
Club Interior Stateroom (10)

Deck 6

Stateroom Key

Club World Owner's Suite (CW)
Club Ocean Suite (CO)
Club Continent Suite (N2)
Club Veranda Plus Stateroom (P1)
Club Veranda Stateroom (V3)
Club Oceanview Stateroom (04)
Club Oceanview Stateroom - Obstructed View (08)
Club Interior Stateroom (11)

Information and pricing is subject to change without notice. While we do our very best to ensure that information and pricing appearing in this website is complete and accurate, we cannot be responsible for incomplete and inaccurate representations, which may or may not be under our control. In the event of a pricing error, misrepresentation or omission, we reserve the right to adjust the pricing or make any other corrections.