---

November 28, 2025

Discovering the Mediterranean aboard a luxury yacht means entering a world of comfort, elegance, and authenticity. With its modern and sophisticated yachts, Emerald Cruises offers itineraries designed to showcase the very best of the coasts and islands of Greece, Türkiye, Croatia, Italy, France, and Spain, providing guests with a unique way to experience the sea.

Among them, the “Greek Islands from the Corinth Canal to the Bosporus” itinerary, departing in April 2026 and already sold out for the September 2026 departure, is an extraordinary twelve-day journey that leads from the classical wonders of Athens to the cosmopolitan energy of Istanbul, passing through legendary islands, cities rich in history, and unforgettable landscapes.

The adventure begins in Athens, a city where thousands of years of history blend seamlessly with a vibrant modern spirit. After boarding the Emerald Cruises yacht, guests set sail toward one of Greece’s most iconic wonders: the Corinth Canal. This narrow waterway carved through sheer rock—an engineering triumph of the 19th century,offers a spectacular passage between soaring cliffs that feel close enough to touch. Once through the canal, the stop in Itea allows guests to visit the ancient site of Delphi, a UNESCO World Heritage treasure. Here, the EmeraldACTIVE excursion includes the famed Sanctuary of Apollo and its museum, home to priceless artifacts,an experience infused with the spirituality and mystery of the ancient world’s most renowned oracle.

The journey continues to Katakolon, a charming seaside town and gateway to ancient Olympia. History enthusiasts can opt for the DiscoverMORE excursion, a comprehensive exploration of the archaeological site, including the ruins of the Temple of Zeus, the Temple of Hera, the palaestra, and the original Olympic stadium, as well as the Archaeological Museum of Olympia, where extraordinary masterpieces of classical Greek art are preserved.

Next, the yacht reaches Chania, one of Crete’s true gems. With its Venetian harbor, picturesque alleyways, and lively atmosphere, the city wins over every traveler. Emerald Cruises offers a range of experiences to fully appreciate this destination: an organic olive oil tasting at a local estate, where guests discover both traditional and modern production methods while sampling exceptional oils; or a guided tour that showcases Chania’s Mediterranean charm paired with a visit to the island’s magnificent Botanical Gardens. The evening concludes onboard with an EmeraldPLUS experience,an engaging show of traditional Cretan folk dances that brings the island’s culture and energy to life right on the yacht.

The voyage then continues to Santorini, world-famous for its whitewashed houses cascading down the walls of the caldera and for sunsets that paint the sky in unforgettable colors. For those wishing to explore more deeply, the DiscoverMORE excursion leads to the prehistoric city of Akrotiri,often called the “Pompeii of the Aegean”,followed by a wine tasting at a renowned caldera winery, and concludes in the poetic village of Oia, a place that seems made to be admired and photographed.

The itinerary proceeds to Mykonos, a cosmopolitan island celebrated for its windmills, golden beaches, and lively atmosphere. The DiscoverMORE excursion reveals the island’s more authentic side: a visit to the traditional village of Ano Mera, the 16th-century monastery dedicated to the local patron saint, and a wine tasting at a typical farm, before diving into the labyrinth of whitewashed streets in the historic center.

The journey then reaches Kusadasi, one of the most beloved destinations on Turkey’s western coast. From here, guests travel to the ancient city of Ephesus, the highlight of an included excursion: a step back in time among marble streets, monumental theaters, ancient libraries, and extraordinary remains that tell the story of a legendary civilization. The day continues with a visit to a local cooperative, where guests can enjoy a traditional dance performance and taste regional specialties prepared with fresh local ingredients.

The following day, the yacht sails through the Dardanelles, a stretch of water rich in history and the setting of momentous events. Arrival in Kepez offers a choice between two very different but equally meaningful DiscoverMORE experiences: a visit to the legendary city of Troy, where myth and archaeology meet among ancient walls and artifacts preserved in the modern Troy Museum; or a moving tour of the Gallipoli Peninsula, exploring memorials and trenches that commemorate the battles of the First World War and the poignant stories of the ANZAC soldiers.

In Istanbul, a city suspended between two continents and brimming with allure, guests dive into its historical heart with the included excursion featuring the Blue Mosque, renowned for its magnificent Iznik tiles, the stunning Hagia Sophia, and the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. The following day, for those eager to further explore the city, Emerald Cruises offers two DiscoverMORE options: an immersive experience at the famous Hurrem Sultan Hammam, where steam baths, scrubs, and massages create an authentic Turkish ritual; or a guided tour of Topkapi Palace, the former residence of the Ottoman sultans, followed by the atmospheric Basilica Cistern, one of Istanbul’s most fascinating subterranean masterpieces.

After a full day of sailing dedicated to pure relaxation, complete with onboard services, refined gastronomy, and sweeping sea views, the yacht returns to Athens, where this extraordinary journey through Greece, Turkey, and the Mediterranean’s most captivating destinations comes to an end. An itinerary rich in culture, traditions, flavors, natural wonders, and unforgettable moments, made even more special by the luxury and comfort of Emerald Cruises.

Don’t miss news, updates, and reviews of Emerald Cruises on Cruising Journal, with photos, videos, and cruise offers.

Giorgia Lombardo

Comments