New Year Cruise Optional Program
Day: Monday 29 December
Port: Nafplio
Excursion: Epidavros & Mycenae
Duration: 5 hours 30 mins
On board price: € 69 per person
Looking out across the translucent water of the bay towards the Arcadian Mountains, Nafplion’s sheltered location below a rocky headland and large natural fortress crowned by a Venetian castle is perhaps unrivaled in Greece. Just 30km east of Nafplion is Epidaurus, one of the most renowned of Greece’s ancient sites, as reflected by its listing as a World Heritage Site.
Situated on the cool slopes of a beautiful and wooded valley, Epidaurus was known throughout the Hellenic world for its unique medical facilities and healing treatments. Dedicated to Asclepius, the god of healing, who restored health to the sick and sometimes (it was said) life to the dead, the city was filled with curative spas and baths and only priests had access to certain secret rites. Most of the ruins of Epidaurus have been reduced to their foundations, with the exception of the astonishing theatre. Still used for special performances, the theatre is in an admirable state of preservation. Built into the ground, rather than above it, the theatre is known for its fantastic acoustics, which we will observe during our visit.
From here, we will enjoy a scenic drive through the Argos Plain, once ruled by Agamemnon, conqueror of Troy, to the famous citadel of Mycenae. High above the confluence of two boulder-strewn ravines, Mycenae is entered by way of the Lion gate, Europe’s oldest piece of monumental statuary. It is from here that Clytemnestra received her husband Agamemnon, on his triumphant return from Troy. Once inside the gate, we will explore the Royal Palace, the shaft graves and the remains of the city walls. An archaeological briefing within the Treasury of Artreus (also known as the Tomb of Agamemnon) will add to our understanding and appreciation of the sights.
A stop will be made at the Agamemnon Palace, a famous tavern overlooking an orange grove, where an abundance of Greek meze, wine and ouzo will be served.
Day: Tuesday 30 December
Port: Corinth
Excursion: Club Hotel Casino Loutraki
Duration: 4 hours
On board price: € 49 per person
Live the magic, enjoy your free drink and canapés and choose the game you like. Overlooking the largest and most beautiful beach in Loutraki, the coastal spa town known since antiquity for its mineral springs, discover one of the most famous casinos in Greece, situated at the elegant 5 star Club Hotel Casino Loutraki. The Casino Loutraki gaming halls have 80 tables and 1000 slot machines, offering the most modern and exciting games. What is more, a perfectly equipped VIP room has been created to meet the needs of even the most demanding players. Enjoy your complimentary drink and canapés and have 4 hours of fun in this exciting Hotel Casino before returning to the ship. Just remember that entry is permitted to those who are 23 years old and above.
Day: Wednesday 31 December
Port: Patras
Excursion: Porto Rio Hotel Casino
Duration: 4 hours
On board price: € 49 per person
Feeling lucky tonight? Visit the Porto Rio Hotel casino, a luxurious and aesthetically French type Casino situated on a natural, smooth private beach about 8 km from Patra. Here you’ll be able to admire magnificent views of the Venetian castle and the Rio-Antirio bridge, considered an engineering masterpiece which at 2,880m is the world’s second largest cable bridge. You can try your luck at Roulettes, Black Jack, Stud Pokes, Pinto Banco and Slot Machines. 4 hours are yours to play and win, enjoy your complimentary drink and canapés before returning to the ship. Just remember that entry is permitted to those who are 23 years old and above.
Day: Friday 2 January 2009
Port: Itea
Excursion: Arachova
Duration: 4 hours
On board price: € 25 per person
A picturesque yet cosmopolitan town, Arachova is well known as the winter Mykonos of Greece, with much to offer its visitors. Located high up on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, this quaint village with its traditional stone houses is well known for its, little shops, restaurants and many places of interest. You will have 4 hours to lose yourself in Arachova’s cobbled streets, and to discover this winter village. For those wishing to ski, snowboard or have fun in the snow on their own, just 17km away lies the Parnassus ski centre.
Day: Saturday 3 January 2009
Port: Kiato
Excursion: Kalavryta
Duration: 5 hours 30 mins
On board price: € 30 per person
Kiato is the gateway to visit Kalavryta, meaning “good springs” was given this name due to its clear spring waters. It is built on an altitude of 756m above sea level in the shadow of mount Helmos, a privileged location full of fir trees. Arriving at Kalavryta you will explore this winter village and visit the best ski resort in Peloponnesus, well equipped with 7 lifts, 12 ski runs, ski school, cafeteria, restaurant and more. After a short stop, you can take advantage of your remaining free time to do many exciting things on your own. Mingle with the rest of the tourists, taste the local cuisine, visit the magical Cave of the Lakes or light a holy candle at the monasteries of Aghia Lavra and Mega Spileo. Take a unique and magical trip on the famous “odontotos” train, well known by train lovers all over the world because its journey along the gorge, is one of the most spectacular railway rides.
