Stand at the crossroads of the East and the West on a journey bookended by the ancient capitals of Athens and Istanbul, where you enjoy an overnight stay. Encounter millennia of history, art, and architecture as you explore remarkable civilizations, quaint coastal towns, and UNESCO Heritage sites, including the ruins of the ancient city of Troy, the setting for the legendary Trojan War in Homer’s epic poems, and Kusadasi, your gateway to the excavated remains of ancient Ephesus. Call on the Greek isles of Patmos, Santorini, and Hydra, each providing a unique glimpse into this breathtaking region and all beckoning discovery and exploration.
Piraeus, roughly translating to “the place over the passage”, is an important Greek port located within the Athens agglomeration, in the Attica Basin. It is 12 kilometers from the municipality of Athens, considered the fourth largest and is the third most populous amongst all the municipalities of Greece. Now a peninsula, Piraeus, originally a rocky island, was developed in early 5th Century B.C. when it was initially designated as Athens’ import and transit trade port. It is the largest marine-based shipping center of Greece, one of the largest ports in Europe, and considered the second largest passenger port in the world.
Inhabited since the 26th Century, it wasn’t until the 6th Century B.C. that Piraeus began catching attention. The land of Piraeus was essentially impassable, flooded by the sea most of the year until centuries passed and the flooding ceased. By the 5th Century B.C. it became a navy base for the Athenian fleet for the natural harbors and the strategic potential they carried. Athenian general and politician Themistocles fortified Piraeus’ three harbors Kantharos, Zea and Munichia, created ship houses and completed his walls in 471 B.C., which led to the port becoming a great military and commercial harbor.
There are many archaeological sites, points of interest and entertainment available in Piraeus. Most famous for its tavernas and cuisine, several popular events take place in Piraeus, such as the Ecocinema International Film Festival, the Maritime Festival, the Piraeus Rock Wave Festival and the Three Kings’ Way Festival. There are also many theaters, including the Municipal Theater, the open air Veakeio Theater, and the Menandreio Theater. Museums in Piraeus include the Archaeological Museum of Piraeus, the Merchant Shipping History Institute Exhibition, the Panos Aravantinos Decor Museum, the Georgios Averof Museum Ship and the Museum of Electric Railways. Be sure to catch the panoramic views available from the hill of Kastella, overlooking Athens and the Saronic Gulf!
There is one main town on Hydra, known simply as "Hydra port". It consists of a crescent-shaped harbor, around which is centered a strand of restaurants, shops, markets, and galleries that cater to tourists and locals (Hydriots). Steep stone streets lead up and outwards from the harbor area.
The charm of Hydra town certainly lies in her rich history, beautiful port and waterfront unspoiled by motorized vehicles. The island offers a rugged charm and some spectacular scenes and makes the perfect place for some self-exploration.
Santorini, officially named Thira, is the southernmost Greek island that is within the Cyclades archipelago, in the southern Aegean Sea. Part of the regional unit Thira, the municipality of Santorini is comprised of the island Santorini, Therasia, and other uninhabited islands of Christiana, Palaia Kameni, Aspronisi, and Nea Kameni. The geological history of Santorini is quite complex due to the area’s volcanism and is currently a water-filled caldera: a rectangular lagoon that is surrounded by three steep cliffs. The name Santorini is a contraction of the name Santa Irini, which is based on an ancient cathedral found in the island’s village of Perissa. This name was given by the Latin Empire in the 13th Century. During the Ottoman Empire, Santorini was called “Santurin” or “Santoron”, and in early times, it was named Kalliste, Strongyle, and Thera.
Santorini is the site of the Minoan Eruption (also known as the Thera Eruption), one of the largest eruptions ever in recorded history. The origins of Plato’s story of Atlantis is believed to have a connection to this eruption that destroyed the early settlements on what was formerly a single island. The descriptions found of Plato’s Atlantis strongly resembles Thera, and with seismological, archaeological, and volcanological evidence, these claims are further supported. There is also speculation that the eruption is related to the Exodus of the Israelites, as well as causing the plagues described in the Bible in ancient Egypt.
The economy is sustained by two principal industries: tourism and agriculture, and has recently been voted as one of the world’s most beautiful islands in various outlets such as the Traveler’s Choice Awards in 2015. The wine industry in Santorini is becoming more relevant as well, made up of Assyrtiko, Athiri and Aidani grape varieties, which is best exemplified in Vinsanto (“holy wine”) which contains all three Aegean varietals. Although Santorini is highly arid, it’s unique ecology and climate allows it to grow unique and prized produce, such as cherry tomatoes, Lathyrus clymenum (a legume), and capers. Thus, tourists indulge in local specialties such as Brantada, Fava, and the traditional dish Santorinio Sfougato.
Patmos is in the South Aegean Islands, particularly a member of the Dodecanese Islands of Greece. It is north of Leros and is most known for its connection to John the Apostle from the Book of Revelations; therefore Christian pilgrims frequent this destination. In mythology, Patmos was named “Letois”, which is another named for the goddess Diana, Leto’s daughter. Since ancient authors seldom mention Patmos in early text, information on early inhabitants is limited. It is widely believed the original people of Patmos were the Carians from Asia Minor, as discovered by the earliest archaeological findings date back to the Bronze and Mycenaean periods. The mountain in the country of Caria was named Latmos, which is where historians believe the name Patmos is derived from. Dorians also colonized in Patmos, and over time, Ionians followed suit. The primary port in Patmos is Skala, which was one of the most important sea ports in the Mediterranean around the 16th century.
Early Christian basilicas were constructed in the name of John of Patmos, however between the 7th and 9th century when Saracen attacks were still problematic, the Grand Royal Basilica was destroyed. A monastery began construction in 1101 when Christodoulos assumed authority over Patmos. The population began expanding as immigrants from the fall of Constantinople and Candia to place in the 15th and 17th centuries, respectively. The island was under the Ottoman rule for years and was interrupted by Venice during the Candian War, Russia during the Orlov Revolt, and Greece during their War of Independence. During the Italo-Turkish War, Italy occupied Patmos until 1943, when Nazi Germany held power over the island until 1945. Since Patmos rejoined in 1948, it has become the tranquil and frequented destination it is now.
Tourists visit the Monastery of St. John, Chora, the Cave of Apocalypse, Psili Ammos Beach and other beautiful points of interest in “Europe’s most idyllic place to live,” as named by Forbes in 2009.
Kusadasi is a beach resort town on Turkey’s Aegean coast and the center of the seaside district of the same name in Aydin Province. The seaside town is also your gateway to the classical ruins at nearby Ephesus, among the world’s best preserved ancient Greco-Roman remains, including its excavated Terrace Houses and House of the Virgin Mary. Kusadasi’s seafront promenade, marina, and harbor are lined with quaint restaurants. Just offshore on Pigeon Island stands a walled thirteenth-century Byzantine castle that once guarded the town. Meet resident wild boars at nearby Dikek National Park, comprised of four secluded beaches, a spectacular coastline, and incomparable views of the Aegean Sea, just one of Turkey’s many protected conservation areas.
Kepez is a seaside town in the Canakkale Province in Turkey. From Kepez SeaDream offers a unique Land Adventure to the ruins of the ancient city of Troy (Unesco Heritage Site). The movie starring Brad Pit although filmed in Malta has the actual Trojan Horse in Canakkale. Another “don’t miss” option would be to visit perhaps the most moving site in all of Turkey: Anzac Cove and the World War I battlefields of Gallipoli. We recommend that you make time and visit this hauntingly beautiful area where for more than nine months (1915-16) Allied and Turkish troops faced one another in one of the world's most tragic battles to gain control of this most important waterway " the Dardanelles.
A transcontinental city straddling the Bosporus, one of the world's oldest waterways in northwestern Turkey, Istanbul has often been described as the destination where “East Meets West.” Its nickname comes from its most defining feature, the Bosporus Strait, which divides the European and Asian sides of the city, revealing a vibrant meld of cultures, architectural styles, and cuisine. Selected as a European Capital of Culture for 2010, Istanbul is home to some of the world’s most famous mosques, churches, and palaces, as well as being an important city during the Latin, Byzantine, and Ottoman Empires.
*Single Supplement for this voyage is 200% for Yacht Club Deck 2, 3 and 4. For Commodore, Admiral and Owners Suite, a 200% single supplement rate applies.
Government, Port, Document Issuance, Handling & Service fees: $427 per guest (included)
Please Note: Fares are capacity controlled and may change without notice. The fares are per person based on double occupancy. Single and third person rates are also available. SeaDream Yacht Club strongly recommends that all guests purchase travel insurance.
Our Destination Specialists “STAT S.A.” can assist with making your pre-arranged transfers, hotels accommodations and any other personalized pre or post cruise arrangements for your SeaDream cruise embarking or disembarking from Piraeus (Athens), Greece.
If you have any questions, please contact STAT S.A. directly:
Email: g.gonis@stathellas.gr (or) d.tatanis@stathellas.gr
Cell phone: +30 6977 90 1956 (or) +30 6983136972
Address:
STAT S.A.
35-39 , Akti Miaouli
Piraeus, GREECE 18535
Discover the numerous beauties of Hydra on foot since no vehicles other than “donkeys” are allowed on this tiny island and enrich your photo collection with stunning pictures.
The charm of Hydra town certainly lies in her rich history, beautiful port and waterfront unspoiled by motorized vehicles. However the island itself also offers a rugged charm and some spectacular scenes.
Together with your guide start your walking exploration through the island's historical landmarks. The first stop will be the Hydra Museum Historical Archives where you may admire 19th century paintings of considerable artistic value as well as rich documental and photographic material detailing the long maritime tradition and history of the island.
Continuing your stroll around the port you will visit the Church of the Dormitian, which houses splendid icons, chandeliers and other offerings from the wealthy seafarers of the island. It is even said one of the chandeliers was stolen from Louis XIV and given to the church. Enjoy a coffee or a refreshment together with Hydra's local sweet " amygdaloto" at a local coffee shop.
Next, take the road uphill to reach Koudouriotis Mansion, one of the finest examples of the traditional 18th and 19th century architecture of Hydra. Built in 1780 by the ship owner Lazaros Koundouriotis, it now houses various items from the National Historical Museum of Athens, such as traditional costumes, jewellery, fine embroideries, pottery and wood-carvings. Enjoy a leisurely walk-through Hydra's little alleys and impressive stone houses before you return back to the yacht.
Notes
This tour sequence can vary to avoid congestion at the venues. A minimum participation is required to operate all Yachting Land Adventures and some have limited capacity. All adventures in the SeaDream Yachting Land Adventures program are subject to change. Departure time will be announced on board.
Take a walk through the hidden paths of Hydra town and along the coastline which lead to the beautiful Vlychos beach and reward yourself with a refreshing swim in the clear blue sea.
Walking in Hydra is the best way to explore its natural beauty. Walk with an experienced local guide from Hydra harbour along coast road passing Avlaki Bay, to the small fishing harbour, Kamini. Stop for photos and continue to Vlichos village and then along a coastal path to Vlychos beach for a swim in the crystal sea water. You will also enjoy a refreshment before returning to the pier by a local boat.
Notes
Please wear good walking shoes or sturdy sneakers (flip flops or sandals are not recommended), bring a swimming suit and a hat and sun screen, plus water shoes due to the rocky beach. Towels and water will be available at the gangway. This walk is approximately 2 kilometers (approximately 1.25).
A minimum participation is required to operate all Yachting Land Adventures and some have limited capacity. All adventures in the SeaDream Yachting Land Adventures program are subject to change. Departure time will be announced on board.
On this land adventure, discover the picturesque village of Oia and one of the most important prehistoric settlements of the Mediterranean: Akrotiri Archaeological site. Could Akrotiri be the lost city of Atlantis?
One of the reasons Santorini has attracted the world’s attention is the excavation at Akrotiri, which reclaimed a whole prehistoric Minoan city from the volcanic ash. The prehistoric site of Akrotiri is on the south-western tip of the island and was discovered in 1967 by Professor Spyros Marinatos. The city was buried by the Theran volcanic eruption in the middle of the second millennium BC.
Over the years, excavations have brought into light a remarkably well-preserved site with two and three-story homes decorated with marvelous wall paintings and frescoes, an advanced drainage system and many interesting objects, artwork, pottery and furniture which give a picture of a society which was very well organized and at the peak of prosperity. This was interrupted suddenly by the eruption of the volcano, which buried the entire city. An ambitious modern bio-climatic roof top structure protects this important archaeological settlement where excavation works are still in progress.
After exploring the excavations with a guide, ride to the northeast part of the island and its most picturesque town, Oia. Built high up on the ridge of red rocks, it offers breathtaking views of the blue Aegean. Take a stroll around the narrow streets with the old beautiful houses and the tiny picturesque shops. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the caldera cliff and wander in the narrow streets for shopping or a cup of coffee during your free time in the village.
The guide visit ends in the town of Fira. Wander along the edge of the caldera for amazing views or wander through narrow streets with the various shops. When ready, take a cable car or walk along the path down to the small port of Skala Fira for tenders back to the SeaDream yacht.
Notes
A minimum participation is required to operate all Yachting Land Adventures, some have limited capacity. All adventures in the SeaDream Yachting Land Adventures program are subject to change.
Cruise the caldera and its volcano on a private luxury catamaran whilst enjoying the stunning views together with refreshments.
Transfer by tender to the pier in Vilhada where the captain and crew wait for your private catamaran cruise. Enjoy wine, beer, soft drinks, and appetizers on board throughout the sailing.
Take in the sea breezes and beautiful views while sailing past Red Beach, White Beach, the rock formations of Akrotiri and the lighthouse. Coming into view next will be the volcanic islands formed around 1570 BC.
Next, disembark and enjoy the beautiful otherworldly surroundings on the island of Nea Kameni. Take the opportunity to relax on the beach or walk up to the island’s crater and visit the natural hot springs, which have waters that are green and yellow due to their mineral content.
After exploring the village, board the catamaran for a journey back to the old port to tender back to the SeaDream yacht.
Notes
A minimum participation is required to operate all Yachting Land Adventures and some have limited capacity. All adventures in the SeaDream Yachting Land Adventures program are subject to change. Final departure time will be announced on board.
Hat, sunscreen and good walking shoes are recommended. If you opt to swim in the natural hot springs; please be advised that the mineral content in the water can stain your clothes.
"Due to the popularity of this Yachting Land Adventure, additional space for prebooking has been added on this voyage."
Cruise the caldera and its volcano on a private luxury catamaran whilst enjoying the stunning views together with refreshments.
Transfer by tender to the pier in Vilhada where the captain and crew wait for your private catamaran cruise. Enjoy wine, beer, soft drinks, and appetizers on board throughout the sailing.
Take in the sea breezes and beautiful views while sailing past Red Beach, White Beach, the rock formations of Akrotiri and the lighthouse. Coming into view next will be the volcanic islands formed around 1570 BC.
Next, disembark and enjoy the beautiful otherworldly surroundings on the island of Nea Kameni. Take the opportunity to relax on the beach or walk up to the island’s crater and visit the natural hot springs, which have waters that are green and yellow due to their mineral content.
After exploring the village, board the catamaran for a journey back to the old port to tender back to the SeaDream yacht.
Notes
A minimum participation is required to operate all Yachting Land Adventures and some have limited capacity. All adventures in the SeaDream Yachting Land Adventures program are subject to change. Final departure time will be announced on board.
Hat, sunscreen and good walking shoes are recommended.
Take the opportunity to capture unique images of Patmos Island and its daily life with your camera.
This tour, covering the south side of the island, not only gives you the opportunity of discovering hidden places but also an opportunity to photograph the most amazing land and seascapes along with developing your creative eye, composing images from geometric form and abstract pattern.
The tour commences from the Port of Skala by minibus to the old village of Chora, the island’s capital, and a photographer’s paradise! The first experience is a wonderful panoramic view over the island. With a turn or your head, you get a glimpse of the 11th century monastery built like a fort, standing with proud dominance. Your guide takes you through Chora’s labyrinth of winding cobbled streets and maze of arched alleyways which offer a feast of photographic inspiration. Observe the settlement of houses dating from the fifteen hundreds with their white-washed walls, reflecting the light, casting shadows and creating geometric patterns. The alleys, arches and doorways display a harmonious balance revealing subtle architectural details which, through your lens, can become exciting atmospheric images trapped in time.
Next, make your way descending to Diakofti stopping off to photograph the view of the mystical rock of Petra and then on to a boatyard. Here you will have the opportunity to photograph the local islanders at work and the streamline shapes of vessels in dry dock. You will also have the chance to enjoy a refreshment at a local café. Fulfilled with great images and pictures in your photo camera you will return to Skala port.
Notes
Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes, as there is extended walking over uneven surfaces and through narrow streets on this excursion. A minimum participation is required to operate all Yachting Land Adventures and some have limited capacity. All adventures in the SeaDream Yachting Land Adventures program are subject to change. Final departure time will be announced on board
Explore the UNESCO-listed Monastery of St. John the Theologian, the divine Grotto, and experience a glimpse of a traditional Patmian home.
Patmos is often called the Jerusalem of the Aegean, the sacred island where St. John wrote the Book of Revelations in the Bible. Depart from the pier today for a short scenic ride to Chora and the UNESCO-listed Monastery of St. John the Theologian, built high on an ancient acropolis. The monastery's massive 15th-century walls and 17th-century battlements loom over the town belying an intimate and peaceful interior of arches, inlaid pebble stone floors, and whitewashed buildings. The charming chapel of Christodoulos is profusely decorated with frescoes and the old treasury, now a museum, displays a breathtaking collection of jeweled chalices, crowns, crucifixes, vestments and ancient manuscripts.
Travel on to the Grotto of St. John where the saint heard the voice of God and wrote his revelations. It was here, the most sacred spot on the island, where St. John the Theologian spent 16 months in exile, and this simple cave is now a chapel and place of pilgrimage. Both the Cave and the Monastery have been UNESCO listed in 1999. The iconostases built into the cave depict St. John's visions and the spots where the saint slept, wrote, and heard "a great voice, as of a trumpet."
Back in Chora you will visit one of the traditional Patmian houses, the house of the Simantiris family. The magnificence of Patmian home interiors is stunning. Entering the thick wooden entrance door is like stepping into another dimension, with Venetian style furniture, handicrafts and multi-colored mosaic ceilings dating from the 18th century. After your visit, drive through the town of Chora on the way back to SeaDream in Patmos.
Notes
Proper (modest) dress code is required for the monastery and the Grotto. Women should wear skirts covering their knees and blouses covering their shoulders. Men should wear long pants and shirts covering their shoulders. This land adventure includes some uphill walking as well as steps in the upper town of Chora, the local home and at the Grotto. Therefore, flat and comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended.
A minimum participation is required to operate all Yachting Land Adventures and some have limited capacity. All adventures in the SeaDream Yachting Land Adventures program are subject to change. Departures times will be published onboard.
Experience the charm of the quaint Greek village of Sirince, followed by a unique culinary workshop set in a stunning Turkish hillside location.
Enjoy a scenic drive to the old Greek Village of Sirince, famous as the perfect synthesis of Turkish and Greek culture, and world-famous Turkish hospitality.
From a distance the village resembles a painting and the winding cobbled streets are lined by two story homes which are under preservation and building is no longer permitted. Stroll through the streets where the houses are kept in Greek style on the outside, while the interiors are distinctly Turkish. Due to its location in a fertile valley the village is renowned for the fresh produce and local olive oil used in the delicious dishes produced there.
Your guide will escort you to the hillside Hotel Nisanyan where you will enjoy the chance to learn about the art and style of Turkish cuisine whilst cooking, chatting, and absorbing the atmosphere of Sirince's special cooking workshop. At the heart of this excursion is the herb garden, and the beautiful hotel which is managed by a renowned family with extensive knowledge of Turkish cuisine, which they love to share. Prepare and cook your own lunch from scratch and later enjoy the dishes you have cooked with your own hands, along with a glass of Turkish wine. Afterwards return to Kusadasi, where you will have the option to take part in a colourful presentation of Turkish carpets or alternatively return to the yacht at your leisure.
Notes
A minimum participation is required to operate all Yachting Land Adventures, and some may have limited capacity. All adventures in the SeaDream Yachting Land Adventures program are subject to change. Final departure times will be published on-board.
Uncover the UNESCO World Heritage site, Ephesus, on this guided private excursion that also features a visit to the affluent homes at the famous Terrace Houses.
Meet your guide and depart the pier for a scenic drive to the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the largest and most important cities in the ancient Mediterranean world. Second only to Constantinople, it is estimated that roughly 15% of the total city has been excavated. Situated on the western coast of Asia Minor (modern day Turkey), it was one of the oldest Greek settlements on the Aegean Sea and later became the provincial seat of the Roman government in Asia.
Your guided walking tour will start at the upper gate of Ephesus, as you explore the unending monuments including the Forum, the Odeon, the Library of Celsus, Hadrian’s Temple, the Thermal Baths of Scolastika and the Great Theater, built in the Greek era and reconstructed in the Roman period.
You also visit the spectacular Terrace Houses (villas) located on the side of the hill within Ephesus. They have a fantastic view of the entire city of Ephesus. The Ephesus Terrace Houses reveal how wealthy Romans lived during the city’s glory days. Glass floors let you admire geometric mosaics and still-colorful frescoes gleaming on the walls. The Terrace Houses were discovered by a team of Austrian archeologists during excavations in the 1980’s. Along with the ruins in Pompeii, they constitute some of the most vivid examples of Roman domestic architecture to survive today. Reflect on the lives in the city and homes of Ephesus as you return by coach to your yacht in Kusadasi.
Notes
This excursion involves extensive walking and stair climbing at the Terrace Houses, comfortable shoes with non-slip soles are recommended. At Terrace Houses, guests will walk on glass-covered platforms. A minimum participation is required to operate all Yachting Land Adventures, and some may have limited capacity. All adventures in the SeaDream Yachting Land Adventures program are subject to change. Final departure times will be published on-board. Order of sights visited may vary to avoid congestion.
This Yachting Land Adventure explores one of the most famous ancient sites in the world: legendary Troy.
The name Troy refers both to the remains of a Bronze Age fortress at Hisarlik Hill near the entrance of the Dardanelles, and the legendary city of King Priam that was destroyed by Acheans in the Trojan War. The hill is associated with the sagas of the Trojan War and its description by Homer (750 BC) in his two epic poems "The Iliad" and "The Odyssey." Archaeological digs have revealed nine cities and various ruins of the city walls, typical house foundations, a temple and a theater. There is also a symbolic "Wooden Horse" near the site.
Next, visit the Troy Museum, built on 100 acres of land, the exhibition area covers 29,000 sq. ft (2,700 sq. mt) with an interior of 137,200 sq. ft. (12,750 sq. mt) at the entrance of Troy ruins. The fact that the height of the museum building is equal to the height of the ancient city of Troy prior to the excavation allows Troy to be kept alive here with all the details. The Troy Museum, which is one of the most important examples of the contemporary archaeological museum chosen by more than 150 projects by an internationally respected jury committee in the National Architectural Design Competition, was opened to visitors in October 2018 Troy Year.
At the end of the visits, return to Kepez Port to rejoin the yacht.
Notes
There is a lot of walking on this tour with many steps and rough and uneven terrain. Flat, comfortable shoes are highly recommended. Also bring sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat. A minimum participation is required to operate all Yachting Land Adventures, and some may have limited capacity. All adventures in the SeaDream Yachting Land Adventures program are subject to change. Final departure times will be published on-board.
Follow in the footsteps of the ANZAC troops, discovering one of the most moving sites in Turkey on this excursion to Gallipoli’s WWI battlefields.
The Gallipoli battle was one of the bloodiest conflicts of World War I that took place on the Gallipoli peninsula, from 17 February 1915 to 9 January 1916. Meet your guide at the port and drive to the local ferry station where you will cross to the European side of the Dardanelles. To honor the 250,000 soldiers who lost their lives at Gelibolu (Gallipoli), the peninsula was turned into the Gelibolu Historic National Park. It includes memorial monuments and the Ariburnu Cliffs. The beauty of the green hills, sandy beaches and blue waters provides an honored resting place for the soldiers who bravely fought and died in this historical battle in 1915.
Today, you’ll see both the Anzac and Cape Helles sectors of the Peninsula. During the tour, you will visit Brighton Beach, the intended landing place, Seddul Bahir and English Memorial. You will also view the Turkish Memorial, the Beach Cemetery on the southern tip of Anzac Cove, Ari Burnu Cemetery, Lone Pine Australian Memory, Johnston's Jolly and the French Memorial on route. A refreshment stop will be made at a local hotel on your way to ferry station. Upon arrival, re-embark the local ferry and cruise to Canakkale city center, and drive back to the ship.
Notes
Flat, comfortable shoes are highly recommended. Also bring sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat. A minimum participation is required to operate all Yachting Land Adventures, and some may have limited capacity. All adventures in the SeaDream Yachting Land Adventures program are subject to change. Final departure times will be published on-board.
Tour the Byzantine Treasures of Istanbul on this half-day Yachting Land Adventure that will take you to the Serefiye Cistern, St. Sophie Mosque, the Hippodrome, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar to experience the glory of the Ottoman Empire.
A scenic drive from the port will take you into the heart of Istanbul, where the historic area of Istanbul was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1986. First, visit the Byzantine Hippodrome, which was one of the largest chariot race grounds of the Byzantine Empire. See the Egyptian Obelisk, Serpentine Column, and the Constantine Column which are remaining from the original Hippodrome.
Continue to the Blue Mosque which was commissioned by Sultan Ahmed I and built between 1609 and 1616 during the Ottoman Empire's rule. The mosque is distinctive for having six minarets, an architectural feature that caused some controversy at the time of its construction. One of the greatest buildings in the world: St Sophia Mosque, is your next stop. Built during the reign of Emperor Justinian (AD 537) it remained the greatest church in Christendom until the conquest of Constantinople in 1453. Next, visit the Serefiye Cistern, believed to have been built under the reign of Byzantine emperor Theodosius II. It was uncovered under an early 20th century mansion and a municipal building that was constructed in 1950. It was known as Theodosius Cistern in the past, but now it is called Serefiye, meaning the "Goodwill" in Turkish, since 19th century.
Continue to the famous Grand Bazaar, where you will browse and stroll the approximately 64 streets displaying a variety of Turkish handicrafts, oriental carpets, rare jewels and inexpensive souvenirs sold in its small colorful shops before returning to the yacht at the port.
Notes
A minimum participation is required to operate all Yachting Land Adventures, and some may have limited capacity. All adventures in the SeaDream Yachting Land Adventures program are subject to change. Final departure times will be published on-board. Order of sights visited may vary to avoid congestion.
Modest attire is required; when visiting the St. Sophia Mosque, knees, shoulders and midriffs must be covered and women must cover their head with a scarf, which will be provided at the Mosque. Shoes must be removed and shoe bags will be provided for the visit. Professional photography and flash are not allowed. All tours in the Old Town require considerable walking, as it is closed to traffic. The total tour duration may vary due to traffic and potential congestion at the renowned mosques visited during this excursion.
Explore Istanbul's lavish palaces on an private small group tour. Visit the Dolmabahce Palace, renowned for its Baccarat crystal staircase, then enjoy afternoon tea at Pera Palace Hotel's Kubbeli Lounge, featuring classic sandwiches and pastries with stunning views.
This exclusive SeaDream excursion is an opportunity to travel in a small group to see the modern palaces of Istanbul. Start with a short drive to the Dolmabahce Palace and enter the site through the Imperial gate. Built in 1856, the palace sits on 62 acres and consists of 285 rooms and 46 halls. The most notable sites include the crystal staircase made of Baccarat crystal and the ceremonial hall which was designed to hold 2,500 people.
Next stop is the Historic Pera Palace Hotel. The Kubbeli Lounge inside the Pera Palace offers the most renowned afternoon tea in the town. This “Istanbul classic” is served on a special three-tier stand, featuring classic finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jams, a wide variety of pastries, along with freshly brewed coffee, tea options; best enjoyed while taking in the stunning view.
Notes
Guests should be able to walk 0.7 miles and manage 40 to 50 steps, being cautious to avoid injuries. This tour isn't recommended for those with mobility issues. Promptness for the return coach is important, as missing it means arranging your own return. Note some palace sections may be closed for renovation, and entry delays are possible due to visitor limits. The palace is closed on Mondays and during religious festivities. A minimum participation is required to operate all Yachting Land Adventures and some have limited capacity. All adventures in the SeaDream Yachting Land Adventures program are subject to change. Final departures times will be published onboard.
Meet your guide at the pier for an evening out on the town in Istanbul—the only city in the world that is located in both Europe and Asia. View both sides of this marvelous city from an exclusive private boat. Leave the port and travel a short distance to board a boat for a cruise along the shores of the stunning Bosphorus Strait. Enjoy a welcome cocktail while cruising. On the European side, you will see many palaces, historic mansions, and modern villas. Watch for the first intercontinental bridge that connects Europe and Asia. Spot the Dolmabahce Palace, formerly an opulent 19th century Rococo palace, and now a museum. After your experience, you will disembark the boat and return to the port.
Notes
Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a shawl, light jacket. Not suitable for guests using a wheelchair.
A minimum participation is required to operate all Yachting Land Adventures, and some may have limited capacity. All adventures in the SeaDream Yachting Land Adventures program are subject to change. Final departure times will be published on-board. Order of sights visited may vary to avoid congestion.
Our Destination Specialists “Tura Turizm” can assist with making your pre-arranged transfers, hotels accommodations and any other personalized pre or post cruise arrangements for your SeaDream cruise embarking, or disembarking, from Istanbul, Turkey.
If you have any questions, please contact Dee at Tura Turizm directly:
Email: dpamir@turaturizm.com
Cell phone: +90 532 465 8151
Address:
Tura Turizm
Harbiye Mh. Cumhuriyet Cad. Elmadağ Han No:32/7
34367 Sisli - Istanbul TURKEY
Notes
Duration
N/A hour(s)
Price
(USD)
Prices are per person, in USD. Duration is in hours.
Testimonials
A wonderful honeymoon trip with SeaDream. It was an unforgettable experience for us and we recommend your company to all our friends. Thank you very much!
Mr & Mrs OVirgin Islands
This was the best small ship cruise we have undertaken and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. We would certainly recommend Seadream and intend [to] return in the future.
Mr. & Mrs. CowieEngland
