September 19-26, 2025
Istanbul, Athens, Paros, Santorini, & more aboard the EXPLORA I.
Join Admiral Travel on a journey where Istanbul’s East-meets-West exoticism flows seamlessly into the surreal landscapes of Santorini, with its black-sand beaches and cavernous calderas. From the cobalt blue domes reflecting in the Aegean’s sparkling waters, we’ll sail through the Cyclades and Dodecanese—scattered gems of sublime discovery. Picture olive-strewn hillsides cascading down to pristine beaches, coastal temples whispering secrets of ancient times, and ruins that beckon us onward to the historic heart of Athens.
The Journey
Embarkation: Istanbul, Türkiye
EXPLORA I
September 19th, 2025 – The Fusion of Istanbul Today, embark on a journey where Europe meets Asia, blending culture and charm. Explore the grandeur of the Blue Mosque, the bustling Grand Bazaar, and the timeless Hagia Sophia. Relax in a traditional Turkish bath or stroll through cozy districts where locals shop for baklava and fresh olives. Haggle for gold, linen, and unique antiques, then savor rich meze, succulent kebabs, and grilled fish. Stimulate your senses at the spice bazaar with its vivid colors and enticing aromas. By night, sip raki and join the city’s late-night revelers at rooftop bars or take a ferry to dance the night away. A city where tradition and modernity flow effortlessly together.
Spend the day exploring before boarding EXPLORA I.
Aboard EXPLORA I
September 20th, 2025 – Day at Sea 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, 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.
EXPLORA I: A blueprint of exquisite design and environmental technologies, blending luxury, sustainability, and innovation. With 461 ocean-front suites, 9 culinary experiences, and 3 outdoor and 1 indoor pools, EXPLORA I offers guests an extraordinary journey through the world’s most captivating destinations.
Explora I offers a variety of world-class restaurants, lounges, and amenities to its guests. Guests can enjoy a unique tasting menu that changes seasonally, showcasing the finest ingredients from around the world at Anthology. Atolla serves a variety of international cuisine, with a focus on fresh seafood and Mediterranean dishes. East Market offers a variety of dishes from China, Japan, Thailand, and Vietnam. The Grill by Explora Journeys serves up classic American cuts, as well as seafood and vegetarian options. The Restaurant offers a wide variety of dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including international cuisine, regional specialties, and themed nights.
Guests can relax and enjoy a drink or light meal at the Explora Lounge, or take in stunning views of the ocean and the ship at the Sky Bar.
The Aft Pool offers stunning views of the ocean and is a great place to relax and soak up the sun. The Cove Pool is a more secluded pool, perfect for a peaceful swim. Exhale Spa and Wellness offers a variety of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps. The state-of-the-art Fitness Center offers a variety of equipment and classes. The well-stocked Library offers a variety of books, magazines, and newspapers to relax and enjoy. Explora I also offers a variety of shore excursions to explore the ports of call.
And don’t forget to visit the Gelateria & Creperie at The Conservatory for a delicious treat!
September 21st, 2025 The iconic Santorini, done differently Arrival: 09:00
Sail into Santorini just as the crowds depart, and explore one of the world’s most captivating islands. Discover its breathtaking scenery: whitewashed homes perched on cliffs, winding cobblestone paths, and unique black sand beaches. Marvel at blue-domed churches, an active volcano, and ancient ruins.
Cruise through sapphire waters in a catamaran, sample local wines, savor freshly caught seafood, and browse chic boutiques. End your day with a leisurely dinner on a hilltop, perfectly timed to catch the island’s iconic sunset.
Departure: 20:00
September 22nd, 2025 – Remarkable Rhodes, Greece Awaken in Rhodes, after a evening of cruising. Arrival: 09:00
Rising from the sea like a gem, Rhodes was once a gift from Zeus to Helios, the sun god. Its sunlit shores have welcomed legends like Cicero and Caesar, and their influence still whispers through the stone-paved lanes of the UNESCO-listed Old Town.
Walk in the footsteps of the Knights of St. John and their Turkish conquerors, who left behind monuments, fountains, and shaded squares.
Pay homage at the Suleiman Mosque, seek tranquility in a Byzantine church, or take in sweeping hilltop views. Explore the legend of the Colossus, now symbolized by twin bronze deer guarding Mandraki Harbour.
Departure: 21:00
September 23rd, 2025 – Immerse Yourself in Bodrum, Türkiye Arrival: 08:00
Picture a charming fishing town with a touch of high society flair on the sunlit shores of the turquoise coast. Wander through its vibrant streets, shop local treasures, savor fresh fish and meze, and sip potent coffee. Discover one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, then explore lush landscapes—Bafa Lake, olive groves, and vibrant bougainvillea. Glide across the Aegean on a private gullet, finding hidden coves with crystal-clear waters. Here, every corner promises unforgettable moments.
Departure: 22:00
September 24rd, 2025 -Verdant, vinicultural Samos, Greece Arrival: 08:00
Once a cosmopolitan hub of the ancient world, Samos welcomed legends like Herodotus, Aesop, and Cleopatra to its sandy shores. It’s said that Hera married Zeus here, and you can retrace their steps among the island’s temple ruins and coastal columns.
This Aegean gem is also rich in natural beauty: hike through hills dotted with springs and waterfalls, explore mountain villages and monasteries, and savor local harvests of olives, honey, and muscat wine. Alongside its sparkling beaches, don’t miss the archaeological museum in charming Pythagorio or the picturesque fishing village of Kokkari, known as Samos’s Little Venice.
Departure: 20:00
September 25th, 2025 – Have a Quiet Moment in Paros Arrival: 9:00
Unveil picturesque Paros’ unadorned charms from ancient remains to traditional tavernas and sweet villages and blue-domed churches to a bounty of blonde-sand beaches. Head out to Parikia to find the awe-inspiring AD326 Byzantine monastery or take a ferry across to explore caves in the rugged natural beauty of Antiparos.
Walk through the island’s ancient archaeological history at the tiny museum and lose yourself in the labyrinth of lanes at the old Venetian port of Náoussa. Banish any tension on a sunlounger, then breeze through home-cooked mezze feasts in white-washed tavernas. Windsurf, kite-surf, dive, swim au naturel and enjoy a network of walking trails.
Somehow Páros has managed to preserve more of the soft spirit than some of her Cyclade cousins.
Departure: 21:00
September 26th, 2025 – Progressive Athens, Greece Arrival: 7:00
Athens is a city that looks forward, blending old-world charm with modern flair. Alongside ancient marvels like the Acropolis and Parthenon, you’ll find trendy galleries, gelaterias, and chic boutiques. Wander vibrant streets, explore bustling markets, and join the lively atmosphere of tavernas and bouzoukia. After dark, head to the harbor for a chilled local beer at cozy bars, watching fishing boats set out under the night sky. It’s a place where history meets possibility, offering a fresh perspective on this timeless city.
Depart from the ship, and allow Athens to be the first stop on your next adventure.
Call 941-951-1801 or email at travel@admiraltravel.com now to reserve your space on this unique journey today!
A $250 per person Admiral Travel booking fee will apply. (VIPLane members complimentary)
We highly recommend trip insurance and are happy to help with this.
Inclusions
- Unlimited Free Wifi
- Onboard gratuities
- Complimentary transportation into town in most ports
- Onboard entertainment
- 24-hour dining service
- Beverages in-suite and throughout the ship, including champagne, select wines, and spirits
- Multiple restaurants, diverse cuisine, open-seating dining
- In-suite welcome bottle of Champagne
- Shuttle services from port to city centre (where required/available)
Exclusions
- On-Shore Excursion costs and dining
PLEASE NOTE:
- All payments made to or on behalf of Admiral Travel are non-refundable unless stated otherwise
- Tours, activities and special events subject to change.
- Travel with like-minded individuals on these exclusive departures.
- On many occasions, optional shore events are offered as an option that only our group is invited to join.
- Special global relationships that the Hiltons have formed over the years will allow you privileged access opportunities.
- Trips are offered well in advance to give ample time for your future planning.
- Minimum numbers must be met in order for the Admiral Travel to host the journey.
- Admiral Travel hosts reserve the right to adjust the duration of their participation should any schedule conflicts arise.