cruise
The Adriatic, Ionian and Aegean seas each have their own traits— the Aegean is dotted with thousands of islands and the Ionian is a bridge between Greek and Italian cultures, while the Adriatic is a sailor’ s paradise blanketed in dazzling blues and greens. Yet all three have the Mediterranean’ s irresistible climate, vistas and alfresco lifestyle in common. On board the Celebrity Eclipse, guests will traverse the eastern Mediterranean in style. They’ ll explore the region’ s stillvivid past, savor sun-ripened produce and watch the orange sun set behind hazeshrouded mountains while sailing to the next destination.
For those wanting to experience the region’ s slower pace of life, this cruise offers the perfect balance between exploration and relaxation— with two sea days and late departures that allow guests to fully immerse themselves in the destination.
WANDER ALONG PRISTINE MARBLE BOULEVARDS, WITH THE MAJESTIC FIFTH-CENTURY B. C. E. PARTHENON ON ONE SIDE AND THE OLIVE-COVERED PNYX HILL ON THE OTHER
ATHENS
A two-night pre-cruise package provides plenty of time to get to know and settle into the multifaceted Greek capital. Its classical past calls to the culture lovers; wander along pristine marble boulevards under the Acropolis, with the majestic fifth-century B. C. E. Parthenon on one side and the olive-covered Pnyx hill on the other. Though ancient relics can be found on almost every street— and beneath homes, museums and office buildings— the newer side of Athens should command equal attention. Come to the city’ s main piazza, Syntagma Square, to witness kilted Greek soldiers changing the guard every hour( with a grand parade on Sundays at 11am), accompanied by the hum of coffee shops, street musicians and animated chatter.
Before boarding, take some time to discover Piraeus, the port of Athens. Stroll the shell-shaped harbor in Mikrolimano and stop for refined seafood at Varoulko Seaside— where sea bass carpaccio with zesty bergamot and sweet kumquat is a must-try starter— or visit Piraeus’ burgeoning gallery district. Within its cluster of former industrial buildings, you’ ll find pieces ranging from Levantine ceramics to neon lights.
As you sail into the Saronic Gulf at sundown, grab a drink in the Sunset Bar to witness the spectacle. The next day is spent at sea, giving passengers the chance to discover all the things the ship has to offer at their own pace. image: AWL IMAGES
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