Traveler in wide-brimmed blue & turquoise sun hat looks out over Santorini mountaintop town with blue domes & beige buildings.

Cliffs of Santorini with stone buildings of varying colors overlooking brightly lit sea, seen on a Greek Isles Odyssey cruise.

Ancient Greek ruins with beige columns holding crumbling stone, seen on the Greek Isles Odyssey cruise.

Greece travelers traverse a stone walkway along the spine of a cliff, towards a blue-domed, whitewashed church by the sea.

A pair of tandem kayakers in an inflatable yellow boat paddle calm blue sea beside the National Geographic Orion small ship.

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Greek Isles Odyssey: Mythology, History & Cerulean Seas

Photo by: Ralph Lee Hopkins

Photo by: Erika Skogg

Photo by: Gemina Garland-Lewis

Photo by: Erika Skogg

Photo by: David Vargas

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Europe Mediterranean Cruise

Greek Isles Odyssey: Mythology, History & Cerulean Seas

Embark on an Aegean odyssey to discover Cycladic islands both storied and secret, from iconic Santorini to laid-back Naxos and Paros. On this exciting itinerary, designed as part of an exclusive wine collaboration with the experts at Food & Wine magazine, explore from every angle: mythology, archaeology, natural wonders and culinary delights. Bask in the beauty of volcanic shores and whitewashed villages, and experience the Aegean’s inviting turquoise waters for swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking and more.

Sail the sapphire waters of Santorini’s volcanic caldera, and go ashore to explore the enchanting town of Oía, with its sugar-cube buildings and world-famous sunsets. On Milos, visit the Bronze Age settlement of Phylakopi and the farm where the famed Greek sculpture of ‘Venus de Milo’ was evacuated. Swim, kayak, or paddleboard in the turquoise waters of the Cyclades. Immerse yourself in the island of Sifnos—known for its rich flavors, many churches, and poetic charm—as you visit its quaint harbors and scenic villages.

The 102-guest Nat Geo Orion acts as floating basecamp. This small expedition ship is technologically advanced and equipped with a full set of exploration tools, including an ROV and enough kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and Zodiacs to send all guests out exploring at the same time. Additionally, select cabins offer private balconies for special moments taking in classic Aegean sunsets. The National Geographic Orion features a nearly 1:1 guest-to-crew ratio, ensuring that your trip to paradise comes with attentive service.

Food & Wine magazine sets sail with National Geographic Orion, curating an unforgettable culinary adventure at sea. Food & Wine magazine’s wine experts have curated an extensive wine list featuring over 40 regional varietals, perfectly complementing the journey with nightly onboard tastings. National Geographic Mediterranean experts will also be aboard to provide local insight.

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Greece small ship cruises, Mediterranean small ship cruises and Mediterranean trips.

Itinerary

Greek Isles Odyssey: Mythology, History & Cerulean Seas Itinerary

The Greek Isles Odyssey cruise operates round-trip from Athens, counterclockwise. Embark and disembark in Lavrio with an overland transfer linking Athens.

Route map of Greek Isles Odyssey: Mythology, History & Cerulean Seas small ship cruise round-trip from Lavrio with overland transfers linking Athens.

Day 1

Arrive Athens, Greece, Transfer to Lavrio & Embark

Arrive in Athens and transfer to Lavrio, where you embark your ship in the afternoon. Settle into your cabin and take in your first Aegean sunset at sea as you pass the Temple of Poseidon.

Accommodations

National Geographic Orion

Meals

dinner

Day 2

Island Exploration

Today, be introduced to the beauty and history of Greece. Your day begins with a Zodiac exploration of the many sea caves, bays and tiny islands that dot the southern end of the island of Antiparos, including a peek at the active archaeological site on the uninhabited island of Despotiko. This afternoon finds you near the three islets of Tigani, Panteronisi and Glaropounta, where you will spend the afternoon swimming, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding in the crystal-clear, turquoise waters of the Blue Lagoon.

Accommodations

National Geographic Orion

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 3

Sifnos

Sifnos—a local favorite—is a peaceful, rugged island known for its sandy beaches, plethora of churches and trendy food scene. With a scenic upper chora (village) that invites exploration, visit quaint little churches that sit precariously on the edge of the sea. This morning, go on a scenic hike and then join a walking tour of the Kastro, with an optional cooking class at a local farm. Your Sifnos visit also offers an optional hands-on pottery experience. Spend the afternoon on board or enjoying the water at a local beach. Whatever your pace, this is the ideal place to explore on foot, whether it’s a brisk walk or a lazy stroll along the beach.

Accommodations

National Geographic Orion

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 4

Milos

Spend the morning exploring the sea caves at Kleftiko, and if conditions allow, get in the water. This afternoon, on the charming volcanic island of Milos, view the Ancient Theater and enjoy an island tour, including a visit to the stunning Sarakiniko, a majestic other-worldly beach cove surrounded by large white volcanic stones. In the small town of Trypiti, visit the 1820 excavation site of ‘Venus de Milo,’ one of the most famous works of ancient Greek sculpture, now exhibited in the Louvre. This evening, enjoy dinner on board or explore Adamantas on your own. Be sure to stop by the famous ice cream shops.

Accommodations

National Geographic Orion

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 5

Nea Kameni & Santorini

This morning, hike to the crater on the uninhabited island of Nea Kameni and swim in the hot springs of Palea Kameni, or choose to visit a Santorini farm for a tour and tasting.

After lunch, go ashore to the main island of remarkable Santorini—an island archipelago formed from a single volcanic cone that erupted 3,600 years ago, burying the resident Minoan culture in ash. Plan your day with a visit to the Archaeology Museum and excavations at Akrotiri, an important Minoan town preserved under volcanic ash much like Pompeii, with remarkably intact houses, streets, pottery and more. This evening, have dinner ashore, taking in the breathtaking sunset.

Accommodations

National Geographic Orion

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 6

Naxos & Paros

This morning, choose to go on an early hike on Naxos, visit an olive press museum and meet the fifth-generation owners while sampling cake, oil and marmalades, or enjoy a self-guided tour of the Kastro. Alternatively, join a local artisan for a marble carving experience.

Over lunch, the ship repositions to Paros, where you can spend the afternoon exploring the charming Kastro, visiting a winery or walking the land with a local farmer to hear how they make dry-land farming work. Afterward, taste the fruits of their bounty. The natural beauty, incredible food and less-touristy vibe of Naxos and Paros provide an authentic Greek experience.

Accommodations

National Geographic Orion

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 7

Delos & Syros

The island of Delos is one of the most important mythical and historical sites in Greece and a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. In myth, it’s the birthplace of the twin immortals Artemis, goddess of animals and the hunt, and Apollo, god of healing, music and light. Spend a morning surveying the Terrace of the Lions and exquisite Temple of Apollo, two of the many incredible ruins preserved here. As you go ashore in Syros, experience a walking tour of the town of Hermoupolis as the afternoon sunlight highlights its small streets and neo-Classical architecture. Enjoy a regional dance performance, and then join the performers when the time is right.

Accommodations

National Geographic Orion

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 8

Disembark Lavrio, Greece, Transfer to Athens & Depart

Arrive in Lavrio this morning. Enjoy a farewell breakfast on board before disembarking and transferring to the Athens airport for your flight home.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Details

Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Accommodations aboard ship; meals as indicated; beer, wine & full bar; excursions; services of expedition leader, historian, naturalist staff and expert guides; all port charges and service taxes; basic WiFi (enhanced and premium packages available for purchase). Gratuities for all departures of National Geographic Explorer, Orion, Endurance, Resolution, Sea Cloud, Jahan and Lord of the Glens.

Exclusions

Immigration fees; air transportation; extensions; meals not indicated; reserve wines & premium spirits; gratuities for all departures of Delfin II, Endeavour II, Islander II, Venture, Quest, Sea Bird and Sea Lion; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 15% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Special payment terms apply for groups of 8 or more; inquire for details. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
120 or more days – 100% of deposit**
119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
**Advance payments will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which may only be applied towards final payment on any future booking.

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The Greek Isles Odyssey cruise begins and ends in Athens, Greece (ATH). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Embarkation is in Lavrio on the afternoon on Day 1, following an overland transfer from Athens. Disembarkation is after breakfast on the final day of the outlined itinerary, followed by an overland transfer back to Athens. Your Adventure Specialist can provide flight arrival and departure guidance during the booking process. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include a cooking class, a tasting, a pottery demonstration, Zodiac and small craft cruises, swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, yoga and stretching, hiking, historical site visits, city tours, museum tours and guided walks.

Room Configuration

In addition to listed Solo cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. If you would like to share accommodations with another guest of the same gender, we will be happy to try to accommodate you in select cabin categories. This program allows you to pay the per person double-occupancy rate whether or not a roommate is found. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.

Families & Children

Children under the age of 18 are eligible for $500 off the double occupancy rate. There is no special kids programming on this itinerary.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the guides’ discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of adventure travel unique.

Rates & Dates

Cruise Rates & Dates

Rates are variable per remaining availability and are subject to change.

2025 2026 2027

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Sep 06 - Sep 13, 2025