Enchanting Greek Isles Northern Aegean Islands & the Sporades Aboard Sea Cloud II June 22 – 30, 2021 CRUISE HIGHLIGHTS
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Enchanting Greek Isles Northern Aegean Islands & the Sporades Aboard Sea Cloud II June 22 – 30, 2021 CRUISE HIGHLIGHTS SAIL in luxury for seven days aboard the three-masted Sea Cloud II, and savor her elegant appointments, fine dining, impeccable service, and intimate size as we navigate the deep blue waters of the Aegean Sea EXPLORE the UNESCO-listed archaeological site of Philippi, where the Apostle Paul introduced Christianity to Europe, and see its well-preserved Early Christian architecture and impressive Roman city DISCOVER Greece’s little-known island treasures of the Sporades, featuring the cube-shaped Cycladic houses and Venetian castle ruins of Skyros; the medieval churches and 17th-century nunnery of Skopelos; and the cobbled alleys of Skiathos TAKE in marvelous seaside views at a picturesque village on Mount Pelion, mythical birthplace of Centaurs, and enjoy lunch surrounded by gorgeous water fountains and splendid mansions FOLLOW in the footsteps of Jason and the Argonauts in the scenic and seldom-visited port city of Volos, with the spectacular Archaeological Museum, renowned for its collection of painted grave stelae from the 3rd century B.C. MARVEL at UNESCO-listed ancient Macedonian capital of Aigai, with its abundance of archaeological riches including the tomb of Philip II, father of Alexander the Great Dear National Trust Traveler, Join the National Trust next June to view Greece the way it was meant to be seen, sailing from island to island aboard the legendary, exclusively chartered Sea Cloud II, a three-masted sailing yacht with an air of classic elegance. On this week-long expedition, journey from the sun-drenched isles of the Sporades archipelago to towns along the Northern Aegean that hold mythical and historical resonance, and visit breathtaking spots that are often overlooked by visitors. On the island of Skyros, wander the hilltop ruins of a centuries-old Venetian castle. In neighboring Skopelos, roam ancient churches and monasteries, including the church of Agios Athanasios. Skiathos awaits next, with the labyrinthine alleys of its Old Town. Call at Volos, the mythical departure point of Jason and the Argonauts, and tour the excellent Archaeological Museum to admire the painted stelae dating back to the 3rd century B.C. Behold awe-inspiring seaside views while enjoying lunch in a village on the slopes of Mount Pelion, mythical home of the Centaurs. Sail north to ancient Philippi where the Apostle Paul introduced Christianity to Europe, to marvel at its partially preserved Roman city and Early Christian architecture. Discover the tomb of King Philip II, father of Alexander the Great, in Aigai, the ancient capital of Macedonia. An optional prelude in Athens and an optional postlude in Meteora and Delphi are available. Sea Cloud II has just 47 comfortable cabins, so book your place on this cruise soon. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience Greece from a fresh, exciting perspective aboard an unforgettable ship. Sincerely, Hamilton’s birthplace, Nevis Scott Gerloff Director, National Trust Tours Philippi Kavala Thessaloniki At the time of publication, the world is Vergina beginning to reopen, with enhanced travel practices and guidelines. Please visit www.nationaltrusttours.com and GREECE search for “Greece” for real-time Pelion information on how we’re working to Volos keep you safe and healthy. SKIATHOS SKOPELOS SKYROS Aegean Athens Sea Enchanting Greek Isles Northern Aegean Islands & the Sporades Aboard Sea Cloud II June 22 – 30, 2021 An optional prelude in Athens is offered from June 20–23, 2021. TUESDAY, JUNE 22: DEPARTURE Depart on an overnight flight to Athens, Greece. WEDNESDAY, JUNE 23: ATHENS, GREECE / PIRAEUS / EMBARK SEA CLOUD II Arrive in Athens, Greece and transfer to Piraeus and the awaiting Sea Cloud II. In the late afternoon, be on deck as the ship sails past the Temple of Poseidon, a dazzling landmark poised atop Cape Sounion. D THURSDAY, JUNE 24: MORNING AT SEA / SKYROS Spend the morning heading to the North Aegean island of Skyros. Considered the southernmost island of the Sporades archipelago, Skyros is known for its seaside villages, distinctly Cycladic cube-shaped houses, archaeological museum, and the remains of the Venetian castle overlooking the town. Attend the captain’s festive welcome reception and dinner as the ship sails to Skopelos. B,L,R,D FRIDAY, JUNE 25: SKOPELOS / SKIATHOS Step ashore on picturesque Skopelos, starting in the Chora, the island’s main town, which climbs up and around a hill. On a walking tour, explore its traditional buildings and historic churches, including the church of Agios Athanasios; the church of the Panagia, with its fine frescoes; and the Folklore Museum. Outside the town discover the 17th-century nunnery of Agios Ioannis Prodromos, dedicated to St. John the Baptist. Return to Sea Cloud II for lunch as we sail to neighboring Skiathos. Wander the labyrinthine alleys of its Old Town and view the 18th-century Monastery of Evangelistria. B,L,D SATURDAY, JUNE 26: VOLOS / PELION Behold stunning views this morning as we cross the Pagasetic Gulf to the port city of Volos, legendary departure point for Jason and the Argonauts. Begin at the superb Archaeological Museum, known for its painted stelae (gravestones) dating from the 3rd century B.C. Continue to the picturesque village of Makrinitsa, mythical birthplace of the Centaurs and known as “the balcony of Mount Pelion” for its endless views. Enjoy lunch here, and visit the Museum of Folk Art and History, housed in a historic mansion. Return to Volos for a late afternoon sailing. B,L,D Skopelos Rooftops of Skiathos Bougainvillea on Skopelos SUNDAY, JUNE 27: AT SEA During a day at sea, attend lectures, watch as the ship’s crew trims the sails by hand, or perhaps relax in Sea Cloud II’s elegant lounge or mahogany-paneled library. B,L,D MONDAY, JUNE 28: KAVALA / PHILIPPI Call at Kavala for an excursion to the ancient city of Philippi. Known as the place where the Apostle Paul introduced Christianity to Europe, this important site includes a Roman city with its partially preserved theater, an agora, and an expansive forum. Set sail this afternoon, passing Mount Athos, the spiritual capital of Orthodox Christianity and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. B,L,D TUESDAY, JUNE 29: MORNING AT SEA / THESSALONIKI / VERGINA Arrive late this morning at Thessaloniki and travel to Vergina, where we'll explore the UNESCO- listed archaeological site of Aigai, first capital of the Kingdom of Macedonia. At the Museum of Aigai, admire the remains of a lavishly decorated palace and Macedonian tombs, one of which belongs to Philip II, whose conquests paved the way for his son Alexander’s expansion of the Hellenistic world. This evening, gather for the captain’s farewell reception and dinner. Sea Cloud II remains docked overnight in Thessaloniki. B,L,D WEDNESDAY, JUNE 30: THESSALONIKI / DISEMBARK / RETURN Disembark Sea Cloud II this morning in Thessaloniki and transfer to the airport for flights home. B An optional postlude in Meteora & Delphi is offered from June 30–July 3, 2021. Please call National Trust Tours for details of the prelude and/or the postlude at 888.484.8785. DISCLAIMER: This itinerary is subject to change at the discretion of National Trust Tours and Arrangements Abroad. For complete details, please carefully read the terms and conditions at www.arrangementsabroad.com/terms. Philippi SEA CLOUD II LIDO DECK 402 Y LIDO BAR LOUNGE 401 LIBRAR PROMENADE DECK 318 316 314 312 310 308 306 304 302 DINING ROOM 301 319 317 315 RECEPTION 311 309307 305 303 BOUTIQUE CABIN DECK 230 228 226 224 222220 218 216 214 212 210 208 206 204 205 GYM 231 229 227 225 223221 219 217 215 211 209 207 SAUNA DOCTOR WATER-SPORTS PLATFORM Sea Cloud II is a three-masted sailing yacht steeped in the elegance of yesteryear and complemented with the most modern amenities. Sister ship of the legendary Sea Cloud, Sea Cloud II has 47 outside cabins and travels under 23 billowing sails trimmed by hand. From the mahogany- paneled library and gracious lounge to the fitness area and watersports platform, no detail has been overlooked. Praised by the world’s most discerning travelers, Sea Cloud II receives consistent high rankings from Condé Nast Traveler. Passengers enjoy open seating at all meals and complimentary use of all water sports equipment. A doctor is on call 24 hours a day. Please note: there is no elevator on Sea Cloud II. n CRUISE RATES (Per Person) Cabins Decks Double Rates Single Rates Cabins 204 to 206 Cabin Deck $8,999 $10,999 Upper/lower twin berths, shower. Superior Cabins 207 to 210 Cabin Deck $10,999 $16,499 Twin beds, shower. Deluxe Cabins 211 to 217 & 224 to 231 Cabin Deck $11,999 $17,999 Twin beds, shower. Deluxe Cabins 218 to 223 Cabin Deck $13,999 $20,999 Twin beds, shower. Deluxe Cabins 301 & 302 Promenade Deck $15,999 Inquire Twin beds, shower. Junior Suites 303 to 319 Promenade Deck $17,999 Inquire Twin beds, bathtub with shower. Owner’s Suites 401 & 402 Lido Deck $19,999 Inquire Queen-size bed, bathtub, and separate shower. RATES INCLUDE n Seven nights cabin accommodations aboard Sea Cloud II n All meals as indicated in the itinerary (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, R=Reception, D=Dinner); bottled water, soft drinks, juices, and coffee/tea with all meals; wine and beer with lunches and dinners; complimentary open bar throughout the cruise n Airport/pier/airport group transfers for all participants on suggested flights n Enrichment program of lectures and special events n Escorted sightseeing by private motorcoach; entrance fees for included visits n Customary shipboard gratuities n Taxes, service, and porterage charges; gratuities to local guides and drivers NOT INCLUDED IN RATES International airfare; passport/visa fees; personal items and expenses; airport transfers for those not on suggested group flights; baggage in excess of one suitcase; trip insurance; optional Athens prelude; optional Meteora & Delphi postlude; any other items not specifically mentioned as included.