Athens to Fusina

A city of legend, civilisation and enduring culture, Athens is a majestic and magical urban sprawl. Extraordinary elegance and grace combine with grit and graft in Greece's capital, where highways encase ruins from antiquity, and gleaming museums and galleries stand beside concrete sprayed with edgy street art. These contrasts enhance and elevate the wonders of this 2,500-year-old city, however, which can count notable contributions to philosophy, drama and democracy, among its global legacy. Piraeus' giant port and naval base welcome you to the edge of the Athens' urban area. From there it's a simple jaunt to the centre. The majestic ancient citadel of the Acropolis dominates an elevated platform and is a constant presence as you explore the city. The wonderful remains of the columned temple of the Parthenon - which date back to the 5th century BC - stand here, representing the pinnacle of classical architecture. The nearby Acropolis Museum adds context to your visit and frames the broad views from its giant glass windows. Or rise up Mount Lycabettus, to be rewarded with perhaps Athens' best panorama of the Acropolis sitting high over the city on its grand stage. See the marble horseshoe of the Old Olympic Stadium, where the first modern Olympics were held in 1896, for more of the city's enduring legacy. Elsewhere, golden beaches and temples stretch out along the coastline, should you wish to explore a little further afield. Coffee is an art form to the Greeks, and it's an unwritten rule that coffee time must never be rushed. So prepare to settle down for a couple of hours and lose yourself in a good chat. Feeling hungry - try traditional souvlaki made with sauces handed from generation to generation.

Milos, one of the thousands of Greek islands, is to be found in the SW Cyclades, a large island group in the Aegean Sea. It is 86 nautical miles from Piraeus and approximately half way between Piraeus and Crete. Its surface area is 151 square kilometres and its varied coastline is 125 kilometres long. Adamas is the main port of Milos and also a seaside village of white houses shimmering on the blue waters of the Aegean. This village was founded in 1835 by refugees from Sfakia who came from Crete after the failure of their rebellion against the Turks From these times and on, Adamas became increasingly important historically because of its large, safe, naturally made harbour, and its strategic position in the eastern Mediterranean Adamas is surrounded by many beaches and offers various touristy facilities such as banks, post-office, doctors, tourist agencies, port police. Many old churches as well as mining and ecclesiastical museums are worth visiting. The geographical bearing of its capital, Plaka, is 36o 44' 35'' longitude, 24o 25' 28'' latitude. In general terms, it is a low island, whose highest peak is Prophet Elias in the north-west, rising to 751 metres. The Small Mountain in the same area is 636 metres high, while no other peak reaches over 400 metres. Its’ most characteristic feature is its magnificent gulf, providing a natural harbour, which is possibly the largest in the Mediterranean. This, in combination, with the island’s vast mineral wealth, has played and is still playing, a major role in the history, economy, culture and development of the island society throughout the last 7,000 years. Most of the inhabitants live in the 8 villages, which are in the flat, northern part of the island. These are the capital Plaka, Plakes, Triovassalos, Pera Triovassalos, Tripiti, Pollonia, Zefiria, and Adamas. Officially, Milos is part of the county of the Cyclades, whose capital is the town of Ermupolis, on the island of Syros. However, de-centralisation of the administration has been achieved by sub-dividing the county into four provinces. One of these is Milos province, incorporating the Western Cycladic islands, Kimolos, Siphnos and Seriphos and with its administrative capital on Milos. Its geological make-up, which will be dealt with later, is volcanic. However, this formation, which is different from that of the rest of the Cyclades group (with the exception of Kimolos), is the reason for the island's lack of forests, rich vegetation, natural water supplies and rivers. Never the less, it has given it colour. This unique Milos colour, is dazzlingly evident in its multitude of beautiful beaches - more than 75- with their glistening silver sand and clear blue waters. Also in the chalky white, terracotta, ochre and jet black rocks, the like of which can be seen nowhere else in the whole of Greece. CRUISE SIGHTS Church Of Agia Triada The church of Agia Triada (Holy Trinity) is located in the centre of Adamas, the port of Milos. This church dates from the 17th century and it houses a small ecclesiastical museum. Mineralogical Museum This museum was established to help promote the effects of mining in the history of Milos and to display the mineral wealth of the island. It is located at the waterfront in Adamas. Ancient Theatre This theatre was probably constructed in the Hellenistic times. However, today only the Roman phase of this monument survives. It is located close to Catacombs. CRUISE SHOPPING There are quite a few souvenir shops in Adamas and Plaka, where you can get your own copy of Aphrodite and some Greek souvenirs and local products. CRUISE ACTIVITIES Beaches: Sarakiniko - Location: 4 km east of Plaka - Location: 4 km east of Plaka Description: This beach is one of the most beautiful beaches of Milos and surely the most particular one. It is located along the coastal road east of Adamas, north-east of Milos. It is the most photographed spot of the island. Its particular landscape is very impressive and surely unforgettable: long horizontal rocks bent over the sea; those rocks are eroded by time and salt water, and have small and huge hollows all over them. The entire landscape formed by the volcanic rocks doesn't show any signs of vegetation and is coloured entirely in a bright white, which makes an interesting contrast with the deep blue and turquoise of the surrounding waters. This amazing scenery gives one the impression of standing on the surface of the moon. Agia Kiriaki- Location: 14 km south east of Plaka - Location: 14 km south east of Plaka Description: From Zefiria a road leads to the beautiful coast of Agia Kyriaki, an organized beach with pure white sand and emerald crystal-clear waters. Firiplaka – Location: 15 km south east of Plaka – Location: 15 km south east of Plaka Description: Firiplaka Beach Milos: Right next to the lovely beach of Tsigrado lies the superb beach of Firiplaka. It is a long beach with silver sand and huge coloured rocks forming its coastline. The waters in Firiplaka are really exotic: crystalline and shallow green-blue, they never fail to enchant anyone who had the chance to swim in them. Papafragas - Location: 10 km east of Plaka - Location: 10 km east of Plaka Description: After Kapros one can find the idyllic landscape of Papafragas, one of the most impressive sites of Milos. From the top of the rock, it resembles a huge natural swimming pool, an enormous cave carved out of the cliff’s side. A tiny path leads to the tiny strip of sand that forms the beach. Crystalline waters of changing colours, depending on the weather and the light, welcome the visitor and invite him to enjoy their coolness. Deep dark sea caves surround the place. The most ancient site of Milos is just a few metres away: the amazing Papafragos, the ancient town of Phylakope,. The few remaining ruins of walls, buildings and tombs are now almost entirely covered by the water, but still bear witness of the life and civilisation existing there during the Neolithic period. Provatas - Location: 13 km south east of Plaka - Location: 13 km south east of Plaka Description: The beautiful beach of Provatas is located in the south-western side of Milos. Small hotels, good restaurants and the beauty of the place are more than enough to attract many visitors every summer. Huge multi-coloured rocks, golden sand and limpid waters complete the superb image of Provatas. Tsigrado - Location: 14 km south east of Plaka - Location: 14 km south east of Plaka Description: Tsigrado is one of the most beautiful southern beaches of Milos. Located right next to Firiplaka, Tsigrado is a small sandy cove with crystal water. Going down this beach is a bit difficult as visitors have to pass through a rocky passage to get there. The surrounding environment with the rocky cliffs is quite impressive.

One of the most beautiful parts of this region of the Peloponnese is the plain of Laconia which extends from Sparta to the port of Gytheion. The many neo-classical houses of this harbor town are built on the slopes of Mount Kourmaros. Aside from its remaining ancient theater and cultural museum, visitors can enjoy local beaches and a variety of dining opportunities. The inhabitants of Gytheion claim Hercules and Apollo as its founders. According to mythology, Paris and Helen of Troy were reputed to have spent their first night together on nearby ancient Kranae, now called Marathonissi. Enlarging the natural harbor, it was used by the Spartans as their naval base and the main port of trade. Today Gytheion is visited mostly for its scenic beauty and access to numerous historical sites. These include the cliffside city of Mistra, one of the finest surviving examples of Byzantine architecture in Greece, and ancient Sparta. Pier Information While in Gytheion, the ship will be at anchor. Guests will be taken ashore via ship’s tender. It is a short walk to the center of town from the pier. Shopping If antiques are your thing, check out Paliatzoures Antique Shop located along the waterfront next to the Hotel Pantheon. If you plan to explore the Mani architecture, you may want to purchase the book 'Deep into Mani' by Edward Eliopoulos (Faber) or others available at the Ladopulou Bookshop in Gytheion. Cuisine Try the best of Gytheion’s seafood at the Sea Tide Restaurant, open from noon until midnight. For more casual fare, try the Touristico Cafeteria. On Tuesdays and Fridays, there is an excellent fruit and produce market located between Herakles and Archaia Theatrou Streets. Other Sites Roman Theater Explore the town’s well-preserved ancient Roman Theater. Its acoustics rate among the finest in all of Greece. Byzantine Church Ruins from a small Byzantine church that was built into the side walls of the theater can also be seen. Town Hall Another monument you can view is the Town Hall, constructed by the German architect, Tsiller. Ethnological Museum The city’s Ethnological Museum displays cultural items discovered in the area. Marathonisi Island Notice that the tiny island of Marathonisi is now permanently connected to the mainland by a concrete causeway. It was on this island that King Paris and Queen Helen once consummated their love. Beaches The best beaches in the area are Mavrovouni and Selinitsa. Kranai Island also offers an excellent beach plus an interesting Ethnological Museum. PRIVATE ARRANGEMENTS For those guests who are interested in touring at your leisure, we are pleased to offer Silver Shore Privato - both half-day and full-day private arrangements by private car. You may book this in advance at Silversea.com or it may be purchased on board, subject to availability. Other private arrangements for independent sightseeing may be arranged by emailing Concierge@silversea.com. Port Photo: Don Pugh/Flickr

Holding the torch as the spiritual home of the Olympic Games Olympia has an enduring legacy and its values echo around the world during humanity’s greatest sporting contest. Come ashore at Katakolon - a small port village on the Peloponnese peninsula facing the Ionian Sea and relax on beautiful Kourouta Beach. Or head inland through this legendary destination to the historic home of the Olympic Games. Located in the valley of the River Alfeios Olympia is a staggering archaeological site of immense ruins and enduring legacy. Visit the museum and Olympia Stadium - where the ancient games were held in honour of the Greek god Zeus. As many as 45 000 spectators fit into the mud seats to witness the ultimate contest of athleticism. See the stand where judges would sit and the white blocks where runners would line up to compete. The tradition continues stronger than ever and the Olympic flame of the modern games is ignited by the sun here in the ruins of the Temple of Hera. It is then taken to spread the Olympic values across the globe. The Temple of Zeus and the Statue of Zeus - one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World - also rose here in all of their glory. Hewn from limestone the temple contained the 13-metre tall statue of Zeus which was sculpted by Phidias - one of Ancient Greece's finest artists. Although the statue has been destroyed you can walk the temple's ruins and see the guesthouse where the majestic wonder was painstakingly crafted.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Croatia’s crowning glory rears up vertically from the tranquil waters of the Adriatic, and Dubrovnik’s daunting fortresses town is a truly imposing sight to behold. Encircled by chunky stone walls so thick and dramatic they could have been purpose-built as a film set, this city’s unmatched old town is the setting for countless films and shows - from Star Wars to Robin Hood, Game of Thrones and every production in-between seeking a truly authentic medieval flavour. This fantasy fortress’s walls - which are no less than 12-metres thick at places - are certainly not just for show, however. They kept Dubrovnik safe when it was a maritime republic and they were besieged as recently as 1991, when Serbian and Montenegrin forces attacked, as Yugoslavia broke apart. Fully restored now, the stone streets of the city take you through a beautiful mosaic of architectural splendour, baroque churches and splashing fountains. Tapering alleys rocket up from the central boulevard of Stradun, offering spectacular views down, but you’ll need to walk the city walls to appreciate the fortress city’s full scale. Banking up sharply to the rear, you can gaze across an ocean of terracotta roofs and church spires, clamouring together before the sparkling Adriatic. Visit the neighbouring fort of Lovrijenac, for another perspective, or swing up to Srd fortress’s glorious panorama on a cable car. Dubrovnik’s streets are crammed with eateries and candlelit tables, where couples splash wine into glasses and enjoy gnocchi mixed with creamy truffle sauces. Nearby beaches like Banje are also close by, and hidden bays reward the intrepid who venture out beyond the old town. Take sunset drinks to sit back and watch as flotillas of sea kayaks roll by, or sail on the pristine waters to explore island gems like Lokrum - where peacocks are the only permanent residents.

One of the most popular of the island escapes sprinkled across the turquoise Adriatic, Hvar is a glorious idyll of hidden coves, electric blue waters and quietly contented port towns. In recent years, it’s gathered something of a reputation as a party island - mainly earned from Hvar Town’s nocturnal exuberances, and the transient day-tripping yachts that drop by. Soak up the energy, exuberance and fine dining, or sidestep the hedonism to explore a richly refined, rural and historic island – utterly spoiled with sunshine, and hidden beaches, which dazzle with colourful intensity. Bike rides along long sweeping coastal paths, boat journeys from pretty harbours, walks through fields of purple lavender - it’s all waiting for you on heavenly Hvar. Relish the sunshine and explore deserted, idyllic inlets, before sharing strong espressos in quiet harbour towns, surrounded by welcoming, sun-wrinkled locals. There’s also rich Medieval history – the sleepy town of Stari Grad is said to be Croatia’s oldest, dating back to 384 BC. Elsewhere, Jelsa is a postcard perfect place – settle in for a bite to eat, with nothing but the sound of harbour waters lapping and sandpaper scraping boats hulls for company. You can walk to look out over glorious views across to Brac, sometimes watching on as thunderstorms rage and flash, an eternity away over the mainland’s crumpled mountains. You’re also just a short ferry ride from the incredible Golden Horn - an evocative spike of brilliant sand which juts out evocatively into the cobalt-blue sea.

Zadar: a city like a history book In turn Roman, Byzantine, Venetian, Austro-Hungarian, Yugoslav and then Croatian, Zadar is an ancient settlement dating back to prehistoric times. Architectural evidence of its history is scattered throughout the streets and maze of alleyways of its historic centre. A must-see for those wishing to discover all the charms of one of the jewels of the Adriatic. At the heart of the city are the Roman remains of Zadar. This huge forum, built between the 1st century BC and the 3rd century, is the heart of the city. Its ruins - carved stones and columns, including the Column of Shame and its chains - still whisper the memory of a time when Zadar was one of the great naval centres of the Adriatic. It was a time when the Romans gave the city its forum and temples, and equipped it with thermal baths and its first sewers, thanks to a feat of Roman engineering: the construction of an aqueduct over 40 kilometres long linking the city to the waters of Lake Vransko. A stone's throw from the ruins of the forum, the church of St Donatus has stood since the 9th century, with its unique and remarkable architectural design. The church, now a concert hall after having been a warehouse and then an archaeological museum, is a circular structure made up of three concentric rings of columns, with 12 columns for the outermost ones, 16 for those in the middle and 20 for the central circle. The result is a fascinating visual effect, particularly for a building over a thousand years old. St Donatus, which has not heard a mass for 200 years, is open to visitors and has preserved some of its relics as well as its pulpit and baptismal font. From its forecourt, you can hear the strange sounds of one of Zadar's other attractions: the Sea Organ, just a few hundred metres away. The only one of its kind in the world, this organ consists of a system of bellows inserted into steps that sink into the waters of the Adriatic. The result is a symphony of sounds created by the waves and air currents. Also worth seeing - Sainte-Anastasie Cathedral and its bell tower Dating from the 12th and 13th centuries, the cathedral was badly hit by bombing during the Second World War. Now fully restored, it boasts a wealth of architectural treasures, including its façade, 3 naves, sculptures and relics. You can climb to the top of its bell tower for a panoramic view of the town. - Church of Saint-Siméon A Baroque church dating back to the 5th century, its bell tower was added in the 17th century. The ochre-coloured monument contains a priceless piece: the sarcophagus covered with gold-plated silver reliefs housing the relics of Saint Simeon. - The Place des Cinq-Puits Built in 1574, the Place des Cinq-Puits takes its name... from the 5 wells located there. For many years, they were the water supply for the inhabitants of Zadar. Just behind it, Queen Jelena Madijevka's garden is the ideal place for a break, with its shady paths, café and peaceful atmosphere. - Port of Foša and Gateway to Terra Firma From the garden, you can see the authentic little port of Foša. Right next door, the Porte de la Terre Ferme (Farmland Gate) has stood since 1543. Long the town's main gateway, it was once equipped with a drawbridge. [Pictures in : Zadar>Tour>Zadar, Nin Slat Works & Royal Vineyards (ZAD-G) starting picture #5 and Zadar>Tour>Dalmatian Panoramas and Rural Estate (ZAD-H) starting picture #5]

A gorgeous artwork of a port you can revel in seafront promenade strolls waterside drinks and the tangled beauty of an immensely atmospheric old town. Nearby islands sparkle and beaches call out while working fishing boats add authentic everyday charm. With both Croatian and Italian languages spoken there's more than a hint of Venice in the crisscrossing streets and soaring bell towers of this breathlessly romantic place. An alluring highlight of the Istrian Peninsula walk the cobbled streets of Rovinj's old town between sun-parched houses that rear up directly against the sea's lapping water. Tiny streets and squares are lined with little souvenir shops bars gelato stalls and restaurants serving up delicious dishes laced with Istria's elusive white truffles. Take the climb up above via the elegant Church of St Eufemia's Venetian bell tower. The tower's ascent is perhaps best viewed from the glinting waters however as you look back to see the church rising above the town's pretty clutch of colourful buildings. Explore the olive groves and vineyards of the sunny peninsular on your way to villages where truffles are sniffed out by specially trained dogs or head out to rocky coves to swim in refreshing transparent seas. Pula is also close by - a city scattered with Roman ruins including the magnificently preserved in-tact amphitheatre - which continues to be a centre of entertainment hosting atmospheric festivals and concerts to this day.

Piran: a tormented history Once a rural homes area of the Roman Empire, Piran Peninsula became an attractive fortress under Byzantine rule by the 7th century. Conquered by the Franks in 788, the city then became a part of the Holy Roman Empire in 952. In 1283, Piran got into the Republic of Venice and was governed by a council of noble men assisting the Venetian delegate. This Venetian era lasted five centuries and ended in 1797 when Piran was annexed by the Austrian Empire. It remained Austro-Hungarian until 1918, except from a a short period of time when it was ceded to the Napoleonic Empire, from 1806 to 1814. At the end of WWI, Piran became Italian until the end of WWII when it was assigned to the Free Territory of Triest, Zone B, under Yugoslavian regulation. In 1954, the town was annexed by Yugoslavia, resulting in the Istrian-Dalmatian exodus, when a significant part of Piran inhabitant chose to migrate to Italy rather than stay in a socialist country. Nowadays, and since 1991, Piran is part of independent Slovenia.

Losing none of its allure over the years, this floating city of canals, bridges and masks is a place of eternal beauty and enduring elegance. The lagoon of more than 100 islands is a heavenly sight, transporting visitors on a journey through time - from its Roman inception, through centuries of trade to the modern face we see today. Navigate Venice’s sparkling waterways by romantic gondola, or on cruises along wide canal boulevards. Span the Grand Canal over its iconic original crossing, the Rialto Bridge, which - with its parade of tiny shops - gives some of the city’s most endearing views. If the crowds unsettle you at any point, take two turns away from the main thoroughfares to find peace alone, amid the city's labyrinth of tiny streets. Hurry to Piazza San Marco to be immersed in Venice’s elegant glory. Basilica San Marco transports you back to the wealthy days of the Doges, who ruled for over 1,000 years. Initially their private chapel, it’s now decorated with beautiful Byzantine mosaics. Nearby the Campanile di San Marco bell tower offers views over the higgledy-piggledy rooftops of times gone by. Just a hop skip and a jump around the corner is the Doge’s Palace, where the levels of opulence ramp up even further. Justice was meted out in this stunning Palace, with the guilty walking to the cells across the covered Bridge of Sighs. Vaporetto trips to local islands offer even more adventures to float your boat, whether it’s Murano with its world-famous glass, Torcello with its amazing Cathedrals, or Burano with its handmade lace and delightfully colourful painted houses.