DAY 3 - 19 Oct 2024
Time at Port: from 7 AM to 4 PM
Just a short distance from Athens, Piraeus is the biggest port in the Mediterranean and sees over 20 million cruisers each year. This port city is a perfect example of life by the sea, boasting an impressive harbour and authentic seafood dining, as well as the rich and fascinating history of ancient Greece. Whether you’re looking to discover archaeological findings or just want to relax in the sun at a friendly café, Piraeus is the place to be.
Things to do in Athens (Piraeus):
Agia Triada Church
Despite being a modern construction, Agia Triada features Byzantine architecture as well as an impressive dome that is visible from every spot within the church. Overlooking the port of Piraeus, Agia Triada is a must visit to discover the history of the town and take in the tranquillity.
Castella
This vibrant and colourful district is nestled on top of a hill with views out over the bay. A walk around this neighbourhood will take you to quaint cafes, neoclassical architecture, Prophet Elias church and the Veakeion outdoor theatre.
Archaeological Museum
Covering the Mycenaean period to the Roman era, the Piraeus Archaeological Museum offers artefacts excavated from Piraeus’ landscape, as well as collections donated from other sites. Visitors will discover monuments, statues, artwork and more.
Hellas Liberty
One of only three surviving Liberty ships, the SS Hellas Liberty is a fascinating vessel to explore. This floating maritime museum was presented to the public in 2010 and covers a range of exhibits people of all ages will enjoy.
Zea Bay
With stunning views of the Saronic Gulf and the beautiful vessels moored in the harbour, the bay of Zea is the perfect place to go for a walk, enjoy a delicious coffee and take in the sunshine. You’ll find many hidden gems here, including ancient walls.
Istanbul
DAY 6 - 22 Oct 2024
Time at Port: from 9:30 AM to 8 PM
Istanbul’s history dates back thousands of years, making it an incredibly culturally enriching destination to visit. With warm and welcoming locals excited to show you around, you’ll explore breath-taking mosques with vibrant mosaics, find handcrafted souvenirs at lively markets and enjoy aromatic mezes and fresh seafood as well as locally produced wine. There’s a lot to see here, but be sure to simply explore this wonderful city to truly soak up the culture.
Things to do in Istanbul:
Basilica Cistern
One of the city’s most popular attractions, the Basilica Cistern was built in 532 and is the largest surviving cistern in Istanbul. The number of columns and the impeccable symmetry is a staggering sight and a must see, making a great escape on hot summer days.
Blue Mosque
Built between 1609 and 1616 during the rule of Ahmed I, the Blue Mosque is named for its hand-painted blue tiles on the interior walls, and the blue lights that illuminate it at night. A walk around this impressive structure is truly awe inspiring- don’t forget to adhere to the dress code though.
Dolmabahce Palace
This magnificent structure took 13 years to build and was the administrative centre of the Ottoman Empire. Take a tour of the entire palace or different sections and discover the exquisite decoration (particularly the 4.5 tonne chandelier) and the painting museum.
Hagia Sophia
Often considered the eighth wonder of the world, the Hagia Sophia was actually built three times after being destroyed, with the third and final structure being built 532-537 AD. Now, it is a museum filled with Christian and Muslim art, as well as breath-taking architecture.
Misir Carsisi
Selling countless varieties of Turkish delight, Mısır Çarşısı Market (also known as Spice Bazaar) is a fantastic place to find souvenirs, spices, snacks and stories from warm, friendly vendors. Whether you’re looking to buy or not, exploring the market is a great way to be immersed in the culture and atmosphere of Istanbul.
Sultanahmet Square
Sultanahmet Square is where you’ll find the tourist hotspots of Istanbul all in one place. Located in one of the most historical parts of the city, you’ll find the largest cistern, two stunning mosques and numerous places to enjoy authentic cuisine.
Topkapi Palace
Topkapi Palace possesses a colourful history with many sultans living there since 1481. A visit here will give visitors insight into the fascinating stories of the Ottoman Empire, through collections of armour, weaponry, pottery, jewellery and more.
Patmos
DAY 9 - 25 Oct 2024
Time at Port: from 7 AM to 6:30 PM
Perfect for nature-lovers and history-enthusiasts, Patmos is widely known as the place where Saint John wrote the Book of Revelation. For this reason, it’s teeming with religious monuments, particularly in medieval Chora. Regardless of your faith, a trip to Patmos will be an incredibly inspiring and humbling visit, bringing you to some of the most holy places in the world.
Things to do in Patmos:
Cave of the Apocalypse
Believed to be the place where John of Patmos received his visions recorded in the Book of Revelation, the Cave of the Apocalypse is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Many embark on a pilgrimage to this holy destination.
Medieval Chora
Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its many stunning monasteries, Chora is a maze of whitewashed, winding streets to wander. Here, you’ll find hidden galleries, traditional tavernas and live music playing in friendly local bars.
Monastery of Saint John
Considered to be one of the most important monasteries of the Aegean Sea, St. John the Theologian’s Monastery is a sacred monument for many. Discover the countless religious artefacts and exquisite altars, and uncover the fascinating history of this structure.
Athens (Piraeus)
DAY 10 - 26 Oct 2024
Time at Port: from 7 AM to 7 PM
Just a short distance from Athens, Piraeus is the biggest port in the Mediterranean and sees over 20 million cruisers each year. This port city is a perfect example of life by the sea, boasting an impressive harbour and authentic seafood dining, as well as the rich and fascinating history of ancient Greece. Whether you’re looking to discover archaeological findings or just want to relax in the sun at a friendly café, Piraeus is the place to be.
Things to do in Athens (Piraeus):
Agia Triada Church
Despite being a modern construction, Agia Triada features Byzantine architecture as well as an impressive dome that is visible from every spot within the church. Overlooking the port of Piraeus, Agia Triada is a must visit to discover the history of the town and take in the tranquillity.
Castella
This vibrant and colourful district is nestled on top of a hill with views out over the bay. A walk around this neighbourhood will take you to quaint cafes, neoclassical architecture, Prophet Elias church and the Veakeion outdoor theatre.
Archaeological Museum
Covering the Mycenaean period to the Roman era, the Piraeus Archaeological Museum offers artefacts excavated from Piraeus’ landscape, as well as collections donated from other sites. Visitors will discover monuments, statues, artwork and more.
Hellas Liberty
One of only three surviving Liberty ships, the SS Hellas Liberty is a fascinating vessel to explore. This floating maritime museum was presented to the public in 2010 and covers a range of exhibits people of all ages will enjoy.
Zea Bay
With stunning views of the Saronic Gulf and the beautiful vessels moored in the harbour, the bay of Zea is the perfect place to go for a walk, enjoy a delicious coffee and take in the sunshine. You’ll find many hidden gems here, including ancient walls.
Flight departs
DAY 10 -
Hotel stay included
Athens Hotel Stay - 2 Nights
We don't know the hotel yet but it will be centrally located, a minimum of 4 stars, selected from our list of preferred hotels & based on a 'room only' board basis. Local government city taxes & local resort fees may be payable.
Customer reviews for Celestyal Crystal
4.4
Based on 9 reviews
Cabin
4.4
Service
4.4
Excursions
4.4
Dining
4.4
Activities
4.4
Value for money
4.4
Entertainment
4.4
We just returned after cruising on the crystal yesterday. Fantastic crew, well organised meals, drinks. Cabin crew were all friendly and helpful. Danny and the animation team were brilliant a differente show every night. We would definitely book again.
Verified customer
1 cruise
15 Oct 2019
Lovely staff, great food, good cleaners. Just felt the ship interior was looking very tired and in need of an upgrade
Verified customer
1 cruise
24 Sep 2019
All arrangements organised by Iglu went without a hitch. We had a fabulous time. The ships facilities were excellent. Food was good. Entertainment was also good. The cabin was larger than I expected. The crew could not do enough for you and they were both pleasant and efficient. Times ashore on this cruise was longer than most other cruise ships excellent itinary. I would not hesitate is using this company again. Hopefully next year.
Verified customer
1 cruise
24 Jun 2019
Amazing cruise experience from start to finish. Have cruised several times before with many of the bigger companies but Celestyal matched them all for service, hospitality, entertainment, itinerary and dining albeit on a smaller scale. There was enough variety of good food to satisfy the most discerning diner and hurray, there was NO midnight buffet so you didn’t fall over all those greedy people stuffing their faces with pizza and chips in the late evening which is often a feature of bigger cruise ships. If I had to find one thing which could be improved, all I would suggest is the coffee from machines in the buffet restaurant is a little on the bland side. However, all you need to do is order from the bar and it’s a different story. All inclusive aspect of the cruise is a bonus and the quality of drinks from the bar was just as good as the premium grade which you can purchase separately. In fact, my inclusive gin and tonic was just as good as the Hendricks which I treated myself to on one occasion. We had booked an outside cabin with picture window but when we boarded we decided to go a bit mad and upgrade to a balcony suite which was amazing. It was huge with every facility you could ask for and the concierge service was exceptional. Giovanni and Robert couldn’t do enough for us and seemed to anticipate what we wanted before we even asked for it. I know sometimes you think you don’t spend much time in your cabin but for the time you are in there it was a delight to have the space to relax without falling over each other and of course an amazing balcony to enjoy watching the idyllic Greek islands pass by. The itinerary is perfect and the extended time in most of the ports means you can see a lot more of the beautiful scenery and island life. The three inclusive excursions were a bonus and the process for getting on an off the ship ship to go ashore, whether on a tour or independently was very efficient and hassle free. This review wouldn’t be complete without a mention for the wonderful Cruise Director, Danny and his entertainment team who were without doubt the most professional performers I have ever enjoyed on a cruise and the twice nightly shows never failed to deliver. The hospitality team also made such a difference as you felt they were genuinely there to make sure you enjoyed your holiday without being pushy or intrusive and by the end of the week there was a real family atmosphere on board. So if you are looking for a small intimate cruise ship (we were 780 passengers) with a joyous atmosphere on board, great service and a terrific itinerary then this is the one for you. Dress code was relaxed but passengers generally chose to glam up in the evenings without going over the top, thereby avoiding the need to be overloaded with formal dresses, flashy jewellery and uncomfortable shoes - not my thing when I’m cruising. Well done Celestyal, we will certainly choosing you as our go to cruise line in the future.
*Handcrafted Cruise & Stay Holidays - Flash sale £50p and reduced is valid for New bookings Only made by 27th March 2023 with a Minimum Spend £1599pp
All offers and prices are subject to change and availability at time of enquiry. Prices are based on two passengers sharing unless otherwise stated and are subject to the Tour Operator's terms and conditions. Cabin and Flight supplements may apply. Other supplements may apply in addition to the price shown above. Flight details, timings and routing may be subject to alteration. Other tour operator charges may also apply. Any Onboard Spending money or drinks package value shown will be per cabin, again based on two sharing.
Note: On 13 January 2018, new European legislation is being adopted in the UK which as result will mean that we may change our required method of payment at our discretion, irrespective of how any deposit or prior payment was made.
