It's no wonder that all roads lead to the fascinating and maddening metropolis of Athens.
Lift your eyes 200 feet above the city to the Parthenon, its honey-color marble columns rising from a massive limestone base, and you behold architectural perfection that has not been surpassed in 2,500 years.
But, today, this shrine of classical form dominates a 21st-century boomtown.
To experience Athens—Athína in Greek—fully is to understand the essence of Greece: ancient monuments surviving in a sea of cement, startling beauty amid the squalor, tradition juxtaposed with modernity.
Locals depend on humor and flexibility to deal with the chaos; you should do the same.
The rewards are immense.
Although Athens covers a huge area, the major landmarks of the ancient Greek, Roman, and Byzantine periods are close to the modern city center.
You can easily walk from the Acropolis to many other key sites, taking time to browse in shops and relax in cafés and tavernas along the way.
From many quarters of the city you can glimpse "the glory that was Greece" in the form of the Acropolis looming above the horizon, but only by actually climbing that rocky precipice can you feel the impact of the ancient settlement.
The Acropolis and Filopappou, two craggy hills sitting side by side; the ancient Agora (marketplace); and Kerameikos, the first cemetery, form the core of ancient and Roman Athens.
Along the Unification of Archaeological Sites promenade, you can follow stone-paved, tree-lined walkways from site to site, undisturbed by traffic.
Cars have also been banned or reduced in other streets in the historical center.
In the National Archaeological Museum, vast numbers of artifacts illustrate the many millennia of Greek civilization; smaller museums such as the Goulandris Museum of Cycladic Art Museum and the Byzantine and Christian Museum illuminate the history of particular regions or periods.
Athens may seem like one huge city, but it is really a conglomeration of neighborhoods with distinctive characters.
The Eastern influences that prevailed during the 400-year rule of the Ottoman Empire are still evident in Monastiraki, the bazaar area near the foot of the Acropolis.
On the northern slope of the Acropolis, stroll through Plaka (if possible by moonlight), an area of tranquil streets lined with renovated mansions, to get the flavor of the 19th-century's gracious lifestyle.
The narrow lanes of Anafiotika, a section of Plaka, thread past tiny churches and small, color-washed houses with wooden upper stories, recalling a Cycladic island village.
In this maze of winding streets, vestiges of the older city are everywhere: crumbling stairways lined with festive tavernas; dank cellars filled with wine vats; occasionally a court or diminutive garden, enclosed within high walls and filled with magnolia trees and the flaming trumpet-shaped flowers of hibiscus bushes.
Formerly run-down old quarters, such as Thission, Gazi and Psirri, popular nightlife areas filled with bars and mezedopoleia (similar to tapas bars), are now in the process of gentrification, although they still retain much of their original charm, as does the colorful produce and meat market on Athinas.
The area around Syntagma Square, the tourist hub, and Omonia Square, the commercial heart of the city about 1 km (½ mi) northwest, is distinctly European, having been designed by the court architects of King Otho, a Bavarian, in the 19th century.
The chic shops and bistros of ritzy Kolonaki nestle at the foot of Mt.
Lycabettus, Athens's highest hill (909 feet).
Each of Athens's outlying suburbs has a distinctive character: in the north is wealthy, tree-lined Kifissia, once a summer resort for aristocratic Athenians, and in the south and southeast lie Glyfada, Voula, and Vouliagmeni, with their sandy beaches, seaside bars, and lively summer nightlife.
Just beyond the city's southern fringes is Piraeus, a bustling port city of waterside fish tavernas and Saronic Gulf views. Oraia (beautiful) is the word Greeks use to describe Nafplion.
The town's old section, on a peninsula jutting into the gulf of Argos, mixes Greek, Venetian, and Turkish architecture; narrow streets, often just broad flights of stone stairs, climb the slopes beneath the walls of Acronafplia.
Tree-shaded plazas surround neoclassic buildings.
The Palamidi fortress—an elegant display of Venetian might from the early 1700s—guards the town.
Nafplion deserves at least a leisurely day of your undivided attention, and you may want to spend several days or a week here and use the city as the base from which to explore the many surrounding ancient sights. Monemvasia boasts a varied and colorful history that can be traced to the 8th-century when Greeks fleeing the Slav invasion of Lakonia found refuge here.
In its heyday it controlled sea travel between the Levant and European shores.
The wall-encircled Lower Town extends along the slopes of a 985-foot-high crag that projects into the sea on the east side of the Peloponnese.
For centuries an impressive stronghold, population dwindled as the inhabitants moved to the mainland.
But with the beginning of a restoration program aimed to preserve Monemvasia's heritage, the Lower Town experienced a new lease on life, and people have begun to return.
The Upper Town is situated on top of the Rock of Monemvasia.
It is reached via a zigzagging, paved lane.
An almost impregnable bastion in earlier days, it has been uninhabited for centuries, but still manages to preserve its magnificent appearance.
Visitors today can explore the remains of the ancient citadel-castle and visit the church of Hagia Sofia.
From the summit there is also a fantastic view of the surrounding area.
Walking in the shadow of the Acropolis in the Agora, you can almost hear the voices of Plato, Socrates and Aristotle arguing about who was the greatest philosopher. Ancient Athens, the birthplace of democracy and epicenter of western civilization, is a city for all eternity.
Day 2
3 November 2024
Náfplion
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Nafplio is a seaport town in the Peloponnese that is one of Greece's prettiest and most romantic towns. Elegant Venetian houses, neoclassical mansions and interesting museums nestle beneath the towering Palamidi fortress. There are also plenty of quayside cafes to relax in and some lovely boutiques to keep the keen shoppers occupied. The town is an ideal base from which to explore many nearby ancient sites. it is a popular destination for locals from Athens so it is busy in peak season.
Day 3
4 November 2024
Monemvasía
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From the shore, it's a big rock sticking out into the sea. Then you pass over the causeway, and through an iron fortress gate, and suddenly, the town of Monemvasia is before you, a perfectly preserved Byzantine fortified port, once 60,000 strong, now home to just a few hundred. You can readily see why the name Monemvasia means single entrance! In the rocky hills above, ancient Byzantine ruins loom over the town, while below a maze of red tiled roofs and twisting alleys hide tavernas and cafes and the home of revered Greek poet Yannis Ritsos.
Day 4
5 November 2024
Pýlos
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Homer's 'Wise King Nestor' was very wise indeed to build his magnificent palace near Pilos. For the city's harbour of Navarino Bay and the land-locked lake that was the original harbour were a perfect refuge from storms - and invaders. And it was at this site on October 20, 1827, with the help of Britain, Russia and France, that modern Greece attained independence, defeating the Turkish navy in the Battle of Navarino Bay.
Day 6
7 November 2024
Taormina
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Barreling under full sail through the narrow Strait of Messina past Scylla and Charybdis, where rock and whirlpool almost claimed Ulysses, you arrive in lovely Taormina. Perched on the shoulder of Mt. Etna, Taormina inspired Goethe to say that'It is the greatest work of art and nature.'
Day 7
8 November 2024
Siracuse, Sicily
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Syracuse is a city on the Ionian coast of Sicily that's known for its ancient ruins. It was once the largest city in the world, bigger than Athens and Corinth and as you can imagine it's steeped in history. Visit Parco Archeologico della Neapolis, one of Sicily's greatest archaeological sites. Relax in one of it's stylish little cafes that surround it's beautiful baroque piazzas before wandering down it's medieval lanes towards the sparkling blue sea.
Day 8
9 November 2024
Gozo Island
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The charm of Malta's sister island Gozo is immediately apparent Steeped in myth Gozo is thought to be the legendary Calypso's isle of Homer's Odyssey. It's green, rural and calm relying on fishing and agriculture as well as tourism. It is one of the Mediterranean's top diving destinations with an incredible range of shore and boat dives including reefs, caves and wrecks. There are also Knight's watchtowers, tiny chapels and beautiful peaceful beaches to explore.
Day 9
10 November 2024
Valletta
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Valletta is the tiny capital of the island of Malta. The walled city was established in the 1500s on a peninsula by the Knights of St. John, a Roman Catholic order. It has a rich historical past and is a European Art City and a World Heritage City. It's has an abundance of museums, palaces and grand churches to visit but be sure not to miss out on exploring one of it's beautiful gardens.
Star Clipper & Star Flyer: these are true clipper ships
Reflecting their proud heritage in every inch of their polished brass and gleaming brightwork. Step aboard these unique vessels and discover a new age of sail, where the traditions of the past are happily married to the comforts and amenities of the present day.
Star Clipper and Star Flyer are modern cruise ships in every way, created for luxury-loving passengers who also love the traditions and romance of the legendary era of sailing ships. Star Clipper and Star Flyer are both 115 metres long and each carries just 166 guests in pampered comfort. Life aboard is blissfully relaxed, much like travelling on a private yacht. You’ll never feel confined on Star Clipper and Star Flyer.
Each ship offers spacious accommodations and expansive teak decks with ample space and not one, but two swimming pools. In fact, you’ll find that these ships offer more outdoor space per passenger than most conventional cruise ships.
The decor of Star Clipper and Star Flyer is reminiscent of the grand age of sail. Antique prints and paintings of famous sailing ships please your eye, while teak and gleaming mahogany rails are richly remindful of Star Clippers’ proud nautical heritage.
All Star Clippers’ ships feature open-seating dining in an elegantly appointed dining room, our convivial indoor-outdoor Tropical Bar and Piano Bar, and an Edwardian style library where a Belle Époque fireplace glows with a warmth that reflects the friendliness and enthusiasm of Star Clippers’ hospitable officers and crew.
Star Clipper Facilities
Dining
Our inspired chefs make dining aboard a delightful culinary adventure with an international menu of foods from the corners of the Earth.
Entertainment
Clearly, this is not a cruise ship in the ordinary sense.
On Star Clippers, you will find that there are no rigid schedules. You are free to do as you wish with your days – and evenings.
Now, is there anything more relaxing than this?
Friends gather round the piano bar and join in singing a few favourites. And in the Tropical Bar, the bartender shakes a pitcher full of some delicious cooling concoction. Now, is there anything more relaxing than this?
An authentic taste of the local music and arts
To entertain you at certain ports, we invite local performers, folk groups or musicians to liven up your evenings on board and our crew members are always ready to entertain you with games and nautical activities.
So rather than enduring another Broadway show, you can enjoy the conviviality of fellow shipmates while a live band plays tropical tunes from a real paradise.
The Captain and crew
The Captain and crew are superb improvisers of the kind of light-hearted fun you’ll only find on Star Clippers. The Captain’s daily briefing on deck is wonderfully informative and a chance to hear some great story-telling as well.
Enrichment
Our passengers tell us that it’s the easy-going informality that makes a cruise with us so enjoyable.
Enjoy many activities on the outdoor decks, free water sports, yoga classes and various entertainment. In fact, our passengers tell us that it’s the easy-going informality of Star Clippers that makes a cruise with us so enjoyable and like no other.
Star Clipper Includes
Age Restrictions
Star Clippers cannot accommodate infants under six months of age. Children are accepted on board from 6 months old, however, there is no children's club or babysitting available on our ships.
Dress Code
Star Clippers maintains a smart casual dress code: Beach or resort-wear on deck during the day and casual during the evening. Deck shoes are the best footwear for daytime. There is one Captain’s dinner on each cruise where people dress up a little more, but there are no black-tie events or formal nights.
Fire Safety
While the ship was constructed with modern materials, that are either fire-retardant or flame-proof, fire remains a risk aboard any vessel. Please observe some simple safety rules:
Do not smoke inside your cabin
Do not throw cigarette butts overboard
Do not light candles, oil lights or similar devices in your cabin
Lifeboat Drills
International Maritime Law requires a lifeboat drill to take place at the beginning of each cruise. All guests must attend this compulsory and important exercise. During the drill, all ship’s services will be suspended.
Your assigned lifeboat station, the location of life jackets and the signal for lifeboat and fire drills are clearly explained on the emergency card posted on your cabin’s door. Please take a moment to familiarize yourself with the safety instructions it contains. When the alarm is sounded, put on your life jacket according to the instructions given over the public address system. An officer will direct you to your boat station, answer any questions you might have and check that your jacket is properly secured.
Your close attention during this drill is of paramount importance for your safety.
Lost & Found
On the last night of your cruise, we suggest you do a full review of your belongings. Check in the safe, under your bed, in the closet and drawers to ensure everything has been packed. Star Clippers cannot be held responsible for items left onboard.
Medical Services
A Registered Nurse is either on staff or is available from shore. In addition, the ship’s officers are qualified in administering first aid. Should a passenger require hospital treatment, the ship is almost always near a medical facility on shore. Passengers requiring prescription medicine are advised to bring them onboard. Only over-the-counter medications are available at the Sloop Shop.
Safety Rules
It is essential that you take certain precautions while onboard. Here are some basic rules:
Use appropriate ashtrays for cigarette butt ends and used matches. Do not throw cigarettes or cigars over the side of the ship; if blown back onto the ship, they may cause a fire. Never smoke in your cabin.
Walk, never run, and be especially careful on wet or slippery decks.
Ladies are advised to wear low-heeled shoes, especially on deck.
Children must not be allowed to run or play unattended on deck, in corridors, on stairways, or near the swimming pool
In the event of rough weather:
Do not stroll about the ship unnecessarily
Hold on to hand rails in passageways and stairways
Doors should be latched during heavy seas. Use the handles and never hold onto a door by its frame as the ship’s movement may cause it to close on your hand.
If there is unsecured baggage in your cabin, call your steward for assistance
Secure items in your bathroom and on your bureau
Smoking Policy
Passengers can smoke in designated areas on deck.
Ready to celebrate?
Whether it’s a cocktail party, a dinner or seminar onboard or a special excursion on shore, Star Clippers can take care of your needs.
Star Clippers is the inspired choice.
Whether it’s your honeymoon, a milestone birthday or anniversary, a family reunion, a special club or corporate gathering or other significant event, Star Clippers is the inspired choice. After all, what could be more romantic – or memorable than sailing away on a magnificent tall ship to distant lands! Aboard Star Clippers, celebrations become extraordinary occasions, because we are dedicated to making each moment very special.
Treated with care and attention to detail.
Family reunions, clubs or special interest groups and corporate events are treated with the same care and attention to detail that you would expect from a fine hotel or resort. Be sure to reserve well ahead of your cruise, because you’ll find that we will provide some great ideas and original touches to make your gathering even more rewarding. Whether it’s a cocktail party, a dinner or seminar onboard or a special excursion on shore, Star Clippers can take care of your needs.
Honeymooners can relax in perfect privacy.
There’s a complimentary bottle of champagne, and an assortment of sweet treats, offered to all honeymooners who have proof of their marriage within six months of their sailing date, as well as a special gift and a certificate signed by the Captain. If you are searching for the perfect way to begin your lives together, a Star Clippers honeymoon offers an idyllic combination of adventure and romance in a setting that inspires hearts.
There’s nothing so easy and pleasurable as falling asleep to the gentle rhythms of the ship and sea unless it’s awakening refreshed the next morning to a new-born day.
Like a fine resort, all the amenities are here; double bed or twin beds that can be converted to queen, marble lined bathroom, private safe, television video system and DVD player, direct dial telephone, hair dryer and comfortable furnishings.
The décor is tastefully traditional.
You’ll find the accoutrements of a classic yacht, where everything is ingeniously designed for comfort, ease and efficiency. On Royal Clipper, 14 Deluxe suites offer the ultimate in cruising comfort, with private verandah, whirlpool bath and 24-hour room service.
Royal bliss
All but six of her 98 cabins are outside, and for the ultimate indulgence, two 40 square metre owner’s suites may be combined to accommodate up to 8 guests.
Star indulgence
On Star Clipper and Star Flyer, 8 deluxe deck cabins offer intimate cruising comfort, with marble baths, whirlpool tubs and doors that open onto deck. All but six of the ship’s 83 cabins are outside, and for a relaxing indulgence, a 237-square-foot Owner's Suite offers a separate sitting area, minibar, marble bathroom with whirlpool and room service.
Owner's Cabin
This Owner's Cabin feature a double bed, sitting area, minibar, and a marble lined bathroom with whirlpool. Each cabins include air conditioning, hair dryers, private safe, television, DVD player, telephone and other amenities an experienced traveller has come to expect.
Double bed
Sitting area
Minibar
Bathroom with whirlpool bath
Average cabin dimensions - 22m2
Category 1 - Deluxe Deck Cabins
Category 1 cabins feature two lower beds converting to double bed, minibar, and marble lined bathroom with whirlpool bath. These cabins' doors open onto deck. Each cabins include air conditioning, hair dryers, private safe, television, DVD player, telephone and other amenities an experienced traveller has come to expect.
Two lower beds convert to double bed
Minibar
Bathroom with whirlpool bath
Cabin doors open onto deck
Average cabin dimensions - 14.5m2
Category 2 - Large Outside Cabins
Category 2 cabins feature twin/double/triple beds, and marble lined bathroom with shower. Each cabins include air conditioning, hair dryers, private safe, television, DVD player, telephone and other amenities an experienced traveller has come to expect.
Twin/double or triple beds
Bathroom with shower
Average cabin dimensions - 12m2
Category 3 - Outside Cabins
Category 3 cabins feature twin/double/triple beds, and a marble lined bathroom with shower. Each cabins include air conditioning, hair dryers, private safe, television, DVD player, telephone and other amenities an experienced traveller has come to expect.
Twin, double or triple beds
Bathroom with shower
Average cabin dimensions - 11m2
Category 3 cabins on the Clipper Deck may be slightly smaller than Category 3 cabins on the Commodore Deck.
Category 4 - Outside Cabins
Category 4 cabins feature twin/double/triple beds, and a marble lined bathroom with shower. Each cabins include air conditioning, hair dryers, private safe, television, DVD player, telephone and other amenities an experienced traveller has come to expect.
Two lower beds, double bed or triple berth
Bathroom with shower
Average cabin dimensions - 11m2
Category 5 - Inside or Outside Cabins
Available in inside or outside, these cabins feature raised twin/double/triple beds, and a marble lined bathroom with shower. Each cabins include air conditioning, hair dryers, private safe, television, DVD player, telephone and other amenities an experienced traveller has come to expect.
Raised double bed, two lower beds or triple berth
Bathroom with shower
Average cabin dimensions - 11m2
Category 6 - Inside Cabins
Category 6 cabins feature upper/lower beds and a bathroom with shower. Each cabins include air conditioning, hair dryers, private safe, television, DVD player, telephone and other amenities an experienced traveller has come to expect.