DAY 3 - 05 Oct 2024
Time at Port: from 7 AM to 3 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.
Limassol
DAY 5 - 07 Oct 2024
Time at Port: from 8 AM to 5 PM
From the thrilling waterpark to the immersive zoo that’s perfect for all the family, to ancient castles and an archaeology park, Limassol is a hidden gem in Cyprus. At the heart of the city is Limassol Castle, home to a grizzly history and the Museum of Cyprus which is well worth a visit to uncover more about this city. Don’t forget to make time to visit the buzzing bars, cafes and restaurants for authentic Cypriot cuisine.
Things to do in Limassol:
Fasouri Watermania
Cyprus’ biggest waterpark, Fasouri Watermania boasts a huge range of attractions including paddle boats, a ‘Tarzan Swing’, countless thrilling slides and an exciting wave pool. You can also find several restaurants, bars and snack bars.
Kolossi Castle
This 15th-century castle in Kolossi Village is an excellently preserved structure and well worth a visit for history buffs. It was once fundamental in military strategy, and is now the place of production for Commandaria wine.
Kourion Archaeology Park
Excavations from the ruins of Kourion city have unearthed many significant artefacts visitors can find onsite. Greek settlers arrived to the area in 12th-century BCE, so you’ll be sure to discover the fascinating history of the people of Kourion.
Limassol Castle
After being built, destroyed and rebuilt over time, Limassol Castle has a rich and fascinating history. Archaeological findings suggest it may have been a cathedral, and once held a prison, though it now houses the Museum of Cyprus.
Limassol Zoo
Though this zoo may be small, Limassol Zoo offers a fun and immersive educational wildlife experience. In numerous natural-looking habitats you’ll find monkeys, flamingos, meerkats and more, as well as a cafeteria, snack bar and playground.
Marmaris
DAY 11 - 13 Oct 2024
Time at Port: from 8 AM to 5 PM
This incredibly popular resort town sees over a quarter of a million people each summer and for good reason! If zipping down thrilling slides at waterparks and shopping for handcrafted souvenirs in bustling markets is your thing, you’ll love Marmaris. Cool off at the beach, top up your tan and explore natural beauty at the national park, or ancient history at Marmaris Castle.
Things to do in Marmaris:
Aqua Dream Water Park
For those hot summer days when you’re ready to cool off, Aqua Dream Water Park is full of fun, thrilling slides, pools and parties. With something suitable for kids of all ages, as well as a range of options at the cafeteria, you’ll easily spend a whole day at this water park.
Atlantis Water Park
In a perfect location on the seafront and next to the shopping centre, Atlantis Water Park is teeming with thrilling slides, numerous areas especially for kids and a wave pool, as well as mini golf, a private beach and restaurants and bars.
Grand Bazaar
The biggest public shopping centre, Marmaris Grand Bazaar has thousands of items for sale in its vicinity. From traditional Turkish crafts that make excellent souvenirs to clothes, accessories, shoes and jewellery, you’ll find whatever you’re looking for here.
Marmaris Castle
Marmaris Castle is a goldmine of Turkish history, hosting an archaeological museum within the fortress. Explore the terraces and colourful gardens and discover fantastic photo opportunities, as well as grab some souvenirs and refreshments at nearby shops.
Marmaris National Park
Turkey’s most visited natural area, Marmaris National Park boasts over 514 types of plant as well as fascinating animals, such as wild boar, red falcon, lynx and bears. You’ll find numerous hiking trails as well as a small, quiet beach for a dip.
Rhodes Town, Rhodes
DAY 13 - 15 Oct 2024
Time at Port: from 8 AM to 11 PM
Rhodes Town comprises of an old and new town, each with their own unique charms. While the Old Town is like stepping back into the medieval ages, boasting Ottoman and Italian architecture, the New Town is a hub of vibrant nightlife. The combination of both old and new makes for a fantastically varied cruise holiday, catering to all interests. Explore an ancient palace and medieval ruins during the day, dine at an authentic seafood tavern in the evening, and dance the night away.
Things to do in Rhodes Town, Rhodes:
Archaeological Museum of Rhodes
Situated in the medieval Hospital of the Knights of Rhodes, the Archaeological Museum of Rhodes is a striking building to explore, and the artefacts within make it especially key to visit. Visitors will find mosaics, sculptures, statues and spoils of war.
Elli Beach
The closest beach to Rhodes town, Elli Beach is a popular place to spend a sunny day. With plenty of sun loungers and umbrellas as well as waterfront restaurants and bars, you’ll have everything you need to relax, along with a diving platform to quickly cool you off.
Palace of the Grand Master of the Knight of Rhodes
Another must visit UNESCO World Heritage Site in Rhodes, the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights is a beautifully preserved site filled with art, mosaics, furniture and décor. Explore this structure for a glimpse into the past of Rhodes.
Rhodes Town Medieval Town
Rhodes Town comprises of an old and new town, each with their own unique charms. While the Old Town is like stepping back into the medieval ages, boasting Ottoman and Italian architecture, the New Town is a hub of vibrant nightlife. The combination of both old and new makes for a fantastically varied cruise holiday, catering to all interests. Explore an ancient palace and medieval ruins during the day, dine at an authentic seafood tavern in the evening, and dance the night away.
Roloi Clock Tower
If you’re looking for the best views across Rhodes, Roloi Clock Tower is the place to be! Since being restored over time its architecture is of a Baroque style, and with a rewarding free drink after making the climb to the top.
Thira, Santorini
DAY 15 - 17 Oct 2024
Time at Port: from 8 AM to 11 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.
Athens (Piraeus)
DAY 17 - 19 Oct 2024
Time at Port: from 7 AM to 3 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 17 -
Hotel stay included
Novus Hotel or similar
4 star hotel
Athens
3 Oct 2024
2 nights stay
Customer reviews for Nieuw Statendam
3.9
Based on 7 reviews
Cabin
3.9
Service
3.9
Excursions
3.9
Dining
3.9
Activities
3.9
Value for money
3.9
Entertainment
3.9
We are not regular cruisers and have not been on any Holland America ships before so we were not sure what to expect. However, we were very impressed with every aspect of the cruise from the stateroom, service, food and great music and artwork. The experience has restored our faith in cruises and we would certainly sail Holland America again.
Verified customer
1 cruise
23 Sep 2019
Excellent facilities and staff. Entertainment was good. On board expenses and excursions were a little high but overall a very good holiday. Please organise better weather next time (if at all possible!)
Verified customer
1 cruise
7 Jul 2019
Sailed to the Norwegian fjords. Majestic as ever. Lovely new ( and happy) ship. Stylish, not as brash as publicity photos suggest. The big production stage shows disappointing but the young classical musicians were terrific and the BBKing blues and jazz sets were the perfect way to round off the evening. Food and service in the main restaurant and Lido buffet so good you can forget the speciality restaurants and extra cost. And the Orange Club exclusive restaurant looked soulless. We sailed from Amsterdam - understandably 50% of passengers were Dutch. All Service charges a bit high and drinks weren’t cheap either. But then they never are!
Verified customer
1 cruise
16 Jun 2019
We booked a seven day cruise Amsterdam to Norwegian fjords. We have sailed with Holland America once before on the Westerdam which is more elegant especially the dining room which on this new ship is souless and brash looking - very tacky lighting and cheap looking decor. The food in the dining room was disappointing. The Lido food was plentiful and varied but not necessarily that tasty. Lack of good fresh fruit. Regarding entertainment we thoroughly enjoyed the Lincoln stage classical concerts featuring a quintet which was superb. There was no musical show in the main theatre which was disappointing. The BB King band were also excellent. My biggest concern was that the hand sanitizers were not placed appropriately at the entrances to the various eating venues so you could easily miss them as I'm sure many passengers must have done. I feel people need constant reminders to use these and there were none. The staff were fantastic and delightful. We have cruised around a dozen times over the past few years and in sorry to say we would not book on this ship again.
*Handcrafted Cruise & Stay Holidays - Flash sale £50p is valid for New bookings Only made by 28th February 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.