DAY 1 - 08 Jul 2022
Time at Port: from 7:30 AM to 11 PM
Due to its fascinating history Corfu strongly resembles an Italian city, though its character today is distinctly unique. Its old town was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007 for its historic roots and impressive architecture, and is certainly a romantic place to explore. With countless hotspots to drink, dine and even dance the night away, Corfu Town is a must visit on any Mediterranean cruise.
Things to do in Corfu Town, Corfu:
Church of St Spyridon
Home to the remains of Saint Spyridon, this basilica is an iconic landmark of Corfu Town with its bell tower standing high above the rooftops. Visitors are welcome to look around the church every day, though it is recommended to do so after morning service.
Corfu Town Esplanade
As Corfu Town’s main gathering space, there’s no shortage of activities and events here, as well as cafés surrounding the vast green square. Relax in the sun with a picnic, enjoy a round of cricket with the locals or watch the brass band play on the bandstand.
Old Fortress
The Old Fortress resides on a small island near Corfu town and, for just a small entrance fee, provides stunning views and featuring a museum with sculptures, artefacts and paintings from the Byzantine era, as well as a café, restaurant and souvenirs.
The Achilleion
The Achilleion was built for the Empress Elisabeth of Austria in 1890 and decorated extensively in homage to Classical Greece. Visitors will marvel at the sculptures and paintings of ancient heroes and gods like Zeus, Hera and Achilles.
The Royal Palace: Museum of Asian Art
Dedicated to the art of Asia, this museum boasts a wide range of works including ceramics, textiles, antiques, paintings and more. Four permanent exhibitions are on display, as well as numerous temporary exhibits and a charming garden.
At Sea
DAY 2 - 09 Jul 2022
You will be at sea on day 2 while travelling from Corfu Town, Corfu to Heraklion, Crete.
Heraklion, Crete
DAY 3 - 10 Jul 2022
Time at Port: from 8 AM to 6 PM
As Crete’s largest city and popular for its association with many popular Greek myths and chgaracters such as Minos, Daedalus, Ariadne, Theseus and the infamous labyrinth, it’s no wonder Heraklion boasts numerous museums teeming with artefacts found across the island. One of the most notable sites is the Palace of Knossos, Europe’s oldest city and home to grizzly tales of the minotaur, while the modern landscape is thriving with vibrant nightlife, shopping and dining.
Things to do in Heraklion, Crete:
Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos
Both a research centre and an aquarium that the whole family will love, Cretaquarium features numerous tanks dedicated to ocean ecosystems around the world, including the deepest depths, the tropics and more. Visitors can take a guided tour or explore at their own leisure.
Heraklion Archaeological Museum
One of the best museums in the world for Minoan art, Heraklion Archaeological Museum covers over 5,500 years of Crete’s history. Featuring intricate artefacts and relics from the Minoan civilization, discover the ancient history of the island at this informative museum.
Historical Museum of Crete
Covering the 4th century AD up to WWII, the Historical Museum of Crete features intricate sculptures, iconic paintings and ancient ceramics, as well as the reconstruction of a Cretan rural home. Visitors will also find a café with indoor and outdoor seating.
Palace of Knossos
Also known as The Labyrinth, Knossos is Crete’s largest Bronze Age archaeological site, and Europe’s oldest city. Take a tour of this fascinating site, said to have once been home to a terrifying Minotaur, as well as the palace of King Minos.
Thira, Santorini
DAY 4 - 11 Jul 2022
Time at Port: from 8 AM to 6 PM
Known for unrivalled views, sparkling blue sea and iconic bleached-white architecture, Santorini is a truly unforgettable destination. A stroll down one of the many cobbled streets and along the volcanic-sand beaches is the perfect way to spend a romantic evening, while kids and families will love taking the plunge from a caldera cruise and exploring the colourful markets. Finally, don’t forget to delve into Santorini’s past at the many museums on offer.
Things to do in Thira, Santorini:
Archaeological Museum
Located in the centre of Fira, the Archaeological Museum of Thera is a must visit for insight into the civilizations that came before present day, featuring artefacts from the Archaic, Roman, Geometric and Hellenistic periods, including Byzantine works of art.
Thira
Thira, as the capital of Santorini, is the gem of the area and boasts fantastic nightlife and restaurants with mouthwatering food. Here you can feel and be part of the action as it all takes place.
Museum of Prehistoric Thera
Home to the artefacts found at multiple archaeological sites such as Akrotiri, some of these excavations were discovered as early as 1867. Visitors will find numerous temporary and permanent exhibitions offering insight into the prehistoric age of Thira.
Santorini Cable Car
Before the cable car, tourists to Santorini would have to climb the winding stairs to the capital or ride by mule. Now, this mode of transport offers stunning sights of the land and sea on the way up, as well as access to the volcano.
Santorini Volcano
If you are looking to get a better look at the local geography, Santorini Volcano is a fantastic place to start with regular boat trips to look at the powerful effects that a volcano can have on the local environment.
Ephesus (from Kusadasi)
DAY 5 - 12 Jul 2022
Time at Port: from 8 AM to 5 PM
Just a short distance away from Kusadasi, Ephesus is one of the best preserved ancient cities in the world. Built by colonists in 10BC, this city is renowned for the Temple of Artemis, considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. A visit here is a must for history-enthusiasts, as well as those looking for beautiful beaches, relaxing in the sun and dancing the night away in the nearby resort town of Kusadasi. Discover breath-taking ruins by day and the best discos by night.
Things to do in Ephesus (from Kusadasi):
Adaland
The perfect escape from the heat on a hot day, Adaland Waterpark has something fun for visitors of all ages! Featuring a wave pool, a kids pool, a jacuzzi, rafting, a safari-style ocean pool and more, you’ll be sure to love relaxing, sliding and splashing here.
Ephesus Archaelogical Museum
Founded in 1964, the Ephesus Museum houses artefacts excavated from the Ephesus archaeological site and the surrounding areas, including the Temple of Artemis. Some notable finds include the Ephesus Artemis statue, the head of Socrates and a stamp dating back to 6200 BC.
Pigeon Island
During the Ottoman Era, Pigeon Island was used for military purposes and features an imposing Byzantine fortress on the rocks known as Pirate Castle. It is now a fantastic place to explore, relax and enjoy freshly caught seafood as well as other Aegean cuisine.
Temple of Artemis
Also known as Artemesium, the Temple of Artemis is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and served as a place of worship to the Greek Goddess Artemis. Although only a few pillars remain in the ruins, the site is a must visit for ancient Greek history buffs.
Athens (Piraeus)
DAY 6 - 13 Jul 2022
Time at Port: from 7 AM to 5 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.
Katakolon
DAY 7 - 14 Jul 2022
Time at Port: from 12 PM to 7 PM
The sleepy seaside village of Katakolon is perhaps one of the biggest tourist highlights of Greece, thanks to its close proximity to Ancient Olympia. With sparkling turquoise waters, numerous traditional tavernas and the warmth of a friendly, local community, Katakolon is the perfect place to explore on foot in the sunshine, where you’ll find museums, bars, restaurants and souvenir shops, as well as horse-drawn carriage rides and even a Beer Bike!
Things to do in Katakolon:
Olympia Museum
Home to over 463 ancient works, this museum is rich with fascinating history and culture of Ancient Greece. Featuring exhibits covering the second millennium BC until the 5th century AD, you’ll find pieces that were used throughout the ancient Olympic Games.
Archaeological Site of Olympia
Featuring excavations from the Bronze age to the Byzantine era, this huge site provides an impressive insight into the history of Ancient Greece. You'll find sites such as the Ancient Stadium where the Olympic Games were held, the Temple of Hera, and the Temple of Zeus.
The Temple of Zeus
The beautiful ruins of The Temple of Zeus is a major historical site. Despite it being destroyed it still is a fantastic portal to the past giving you a major insight into the gods of old.
Archimedes’ Museum
This fantastic free museum is dedicated to the physicist, engineer, inventor and astronomer, Archimedes of Syracuse. Home to just some of his inventions and reconstructions, it’s well worth a visit, especially for those curious about his expert creations.
Archaeological Museum
Just a short walk from the archaeological site, the Archaeological Museum hosts artefacts that were discovered in Olympia. With over 3,500 years of history to discover, this small but fascinating museum will take you back in time to Ancient Greece.
Corfu Town, Corfu
DAY 8 - 15 Jul 2022
Time at Port: from 7:30 AM to 11 PM
Due to its fascinating history Corfu strongly resembles an Italian city, though its character today is distinctly unique. Its old town was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007 for its historic roots and impressive architecture, and is certainly a romantic place to explore. With countless hotspots to drink, dine and even dance the night away, Corfu Town is a must visit on any Mediterranean cruise.
Things to do in Corfu Town, Corfu:
Church of St Spyridon
Home to the remains of Saint Spyridon, this basilica is an iconic landmark of Corfu Town with its bell tower standing high above the rooftops. Visitors are welcome to look around the church every day, though it is recommended to do so after morning service.
Corfu Town Esplanade
As Corfu Town’s main gathering space, there’s no shortage of activities and events here, as well as cafés surrounding the vast green square. Relax in the sun with a picnic, enjoy a round of cricket with the locals or watch the brass band play on the bandstand.
Old Fortress
The Old Fortress resides on a small island near Corfu town and, for just a small entrance fee, provides stunning views and featuring a museum with sculptures, artefacts and paintings from the Byzantine era, as well as a café, restaurant and souvenirs.
The Achilleion
The Achilleion was built for the Empress Elisabeth of Austria in 1890 and decorated extensively in homage to Classical Greece. Visitors will marvel at the sculptures and paintings of ancient heroes and gods like Zeus, Hera and Achilles.
The Royal Palace: Museum of Asian Art
Dedicated to the art of Asia, this museum boasts a wide range of works including ceramics, textiles, antiques, paintings and more. Four permanent exhibitions are on display, as well as numerous temporary exhibits and a charming garden.
The Pros: The embarkation and transfer from the airport was seamless. The cabin was clean and a good size we had the large balcony cabin. The staff was friendly I would not say they provide personal service but they are polite. The drinks selection and coffee shop was good. Disembarking was seamless. The boat is very clean. The entertainment show was great and some of the musicians. The Cons: We paid a discount price and it felt like a discounted cruise it was like Benidorm in the sea, people pushing over each other at the buffet shouting bar the bar to get the next drink you would think the boat was going to run out of food and drinks. If your looking for the glamorous cruise you won’t find it here half of my good clothes I did not wear as I would have been out of place. The food was hospital food bland with no taste I suppose when your feeding the masses this is how it goes. Be prepared for drunk and loud it’s not a place to relax I was happy to get the off the boat during the day. There were pub quizzes and Karaoke on a lot of days again not to my taste. In summary if your looking for the glamorous cruise you will not find it here. I suppose I made the wrong choice.
I joined the ship on Friday 29th of November the colourful coasts cruise. The logistics to get from the airport to the boat to the cabin was perfect. The staff are amazing through the ship wonderful service. The shows are amazing I paid 840 pounds for a large balcony cabin it was perfect. The price was a bargain so initially I was delighted. The crowd of n board was a very mixed bag and this is what I disliked people shouting at you in the bar drunks everywhere, grabbing food in the buffet as if it was their last meal this was a floating Benidorm smart dress was football jersey and shorts. The food and on the ship was awful school dinners is the only way to describe it warm stodgy food no flavour. This cruise does not suit people under the age of 50 and if your looking for class and serenity you will not find it here the pool deck was like a pub brawl people fighting over sun loungers and being rude in general.
From start to finish we enjoyed every minute. The crew were wonderful, especially Monoj our cabin steward who made us animals and flowers from towels and a lovely Birthday cake also from towels on my wifes 60th Birthday, and a 'lets celebrate' sign on the door. The ship was lovely, the food was exceptional both in the restaurant and the buffet. The all inclusive was a bonus , we didn't feel the need to upgrade to premium as we don't drink coffee or premium single malt whiskey. The Fjords were really beautiful and we were blessed with lovely weather. Will cruise again with Marella.
We loved the cruise. From getting on at Newcastle, much easier than airports, to the amazing sights of the fjords, the crew who can’t do enough for you, the stewards who clean your cabin, the entertainment cast who put on fabulous shows, the food and drink which is there from morning to night, and everything about Marella cruises are there to give you a unforgettable holiday, wouldn’t go with anybody else.
Excellent experience all round. Positives were quality of food - all inclusive is great - and the quality of shows was excellent. The cabin and balcony were very spacious and stewards very efficient and eager to please. I enjoyed the spa on many occasions. The decor was understated but classy, and staff were helpful and friendly. The excursions booked through Marella were very informative and good value. A couple of negatives were organisation in the buffet restaurant (e.g. running out of crockery and having to search for cutlery) and embarkation at Newcastle was a little chaotic - though staff were very helpful. I had a great time overall and will definitely use Thomson (Marella) again. Iglu Cruise staff were also very efficient dealing with our booking from start to end.
Very well maintained, action regarding faults dealt with immediately. Staff very attentive and friendly. On a down side food could have been a bit hotter at times, this includes the fine dining.
* Please note - Itineraries calling into Venice and Dubrovnik will incur a small tourist tax per person, this will be added to your onboard account during the cruise.
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.
