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Ancient Wonders & Seas: Greek Isles Cruise 2026


  • Silver Nova - Silversea Greece (map)
Library of Celsus, Ephesus, Turkey

August 9–16, 2026 • Round-trip from Athens (Piraeus) • Silversea’s Silver Nova

Embark on an unforgettable voyage with Professor Darryl Phillips, Professor of Classics at Connecticut College, through the cradle of Greek and Roman civilization. Sail from the iconic Acropolis of Athens to the magnificent center of Greek civilization of the island of Delos, the medieval lanes of Rhodes, and the sun-kissed shores of the Aegean. Along the way, delve into ancient history with a renowned scholar as your guide, all while indulging in the ultra-luxury amenities of Silversea’s Silver Nova. Join us for a journey that promises inspiration, enrichment, and relaxation in equal measure.

 

Overview: A Journey of Discovery with Expert Leadership

  • Experience the Greek Isles in depth on a one-of-a-kind luxury educational cruise designed for culturally curious, discerning travelers.

  • This program is a collaboration between the Connecticut College Office of Alumni and Parent Engagement, Expeditioner Travel and Professor Darryl Phillips of Connecticut College, uniting sumptuous travel with scholarly insight.

  • Over seven nights, you’ll travel in the company of an expert who brings the ancient world to life through engaging talks and guided excursions.

  • Professor Phillips –Professor of Classics (Ph.D., Duke University) and an award-winning teacher – specializes in Ancient Greek and Roman history. For more than three decades he has been teaching popular courses that explore the monuments and history of the ancient Mediterranean world, and his passion for classical civilization is infectious.

  • Whether you’re one of his alumni from Connecticut College or an avid history enthusiast, you’ll find his stories and expertise add immeasurable depth to each site we visit.

  • This journey isn’t just a cruise – it’s a moving classroom under the Mediterranean sun, inviting you to learn, reflect, and be inspired by our shared cultural heritage.

This exclusive opportunity for Connecticut College alumni and parents includes special benefits at no additional cost—simply for being part of our group. It’s a testament to the College’s continued commitment to its community, with a current professor personally leading the experience.

 

Itinerary at a Glance: Athens Round-Trip Voyage

Silver Nova August 2026

  • Arrive in the ancient capital. Stroll among Athens’ epoch-defining wonders – perhaps visiting the Parthenon or the Agora on your own – before we set sail in the evening. Watch the sun set over the Acropolis as our ship departs, kicking off our voyage in epic fashion.

  • Awake to the charming Venetian-era town of Nafplion on the Peloponnesian coast. Wander its colorful streets and seaside promenade, or join an excursion to nearby Mycenae to explore the Bronze Age citadel excavated by Heinrich Schleimann as he searched for traces of King Agamemnon who had led the Greeks in the Trojan War.

  • Discover the laid-back beauty of Milos, a volcanic island of surreal rock formations and crystal-clear bays. You might relax on one of Milos’s unique beaches or explore the catacombs and ancient ruins. This lesser-visited gem offers a taste of authentic Cycladic life.

  • Arrive in Crete’s bustling port, gateway to the Minoan mysteries of Knossos. Here you can explore the ruins of the Palace of Knossos – once the center of Bronze Age Crete and the legendary Labyrinth of King Minos that held the Minotaur. Back in Heraklion, enjoy the lively cafes or the excellent Archaeological Museum.

  • Step into medieval history on the island of Rhodes. The ship docks near Rhodes’ Old Town, a UNESCO site enclosed by fortified walls and dominated by the Palace of the Grand Masters of the Knights of Rhodes. Stroll the Street of the Knights or venture to the hilltop acropolis of Lindos or Kameirus to explore ancient Greek sites and to take in unequaled panoramic views.

  • Cross over to the Turkish coast for a day rich in antiquity. Kusadasi is our gateway to Ephesus, one of the greatest archaeological treasures on Earth. Walk the marble streets of this ancient Greco-Roman city, stand before the soaring Library of Celsus and the vast theater, and envision the days when Ephesus was home to the Temple of Artemis – one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

  • Our final port is the chic island of Mykonos, famous for its whitewashed lanes and iconic windmills. Beyond the boutiques and cafes lies a short boat ride to Delos, the sacred island legendary as the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. You may opt to visit Delos’s open-air ruins and lion statues on a guided excursion, or simply enjoy Mykonos’s cosmopolitan charms. In the evening, reminisce with newfound friends during a festive farewell as Silver Nova charts an overnight course back to Athens.

  • Disembark in Athens after breakfast. Though the cruise concludes, the memories and insights gleaned from this voyage will beckon you to continue exploring the world’s ancient marvels.

 

Immersive Shore Excursions – Highlights

Throughout the cruise, daily shore excursions will illuminate the rich tapestry of ancient Greek (and Roman) civilization. These guided tours – led by local experts and enhanced by Professor Phillips’s commentary – are designed to bring each site to life. Here are a few highlights of the experiences that await:

  • Traverse the marble-paved Curetes Street of Ancient Ephesus, where impressive monuments like the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre still stand in situ. Once home to the fabled Temple of Artemis (a Wonder of the Ancient World), Ephesus is “one of the greatest archaeological treasures on Earth,” now preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage site . Feel history surround you as you walk in the footsteps of ancient Greeks, Romans, and early Christians in this open-air museum.

  • Explore the mythic birthplace of Apollo and Artemis on the uninhabited island of Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage site revered as “the most sacred of all islands” in antiquity . Among the ruins of temples, houses, and marketplaces, you’ll see the Terrace of the Lions and imagine the bustling sanctuary that once drew pilgrims from across the Greek world. Delos’s evocative landscape and its role in myth will surely spark your imagination.

  • Step back 4,000 years into the Bronze Age at the Palace of Knossos, center of the Minoan civilization. According to legend, this sprawling complex was the seat of King Minos and home to the Labyrinth that imprisoned the Minotaur . Wander the labyrinthine ruins excavated by Sir Arthur Evans – from the throne room to vibrant frescoes of bull dancers – and consider how myth and history intertwine. Professor Phillips will discuss how Knossos inspired the myths of Theseus and the Minotaur, enhancing your appreciation of this archaeological wonder.

  • Travel into the Peloponnesian hills to discover Mycenae, the Bronze Age citadel that gave its name to Mycenaean Civilization. Flourishing from 1400 - 1200 BC, the early excavations of the site undertaken by Heinrich Schliemann in the 1870s captivated the world as he claimed to have found the palace and burial place of King Agamemnon, of Trojan War fame. Our excursion will explore the spectacular tholos tombs and famous "Lion Gate" -- the largest surviving monumental work of art from the Aegean Bronze Age.  Explore the remains of the palace and learn the history of the "Mycenaean" people, who we now know were the very first ancient Greeks.

Additional excursions may include the medieval Old Town of Rhodes, the cliffside Acropolis of Lindos on Rhodes, the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion showcasing Minoan treasures, and more. All excursions are carefully curated to enrich your journey – you can do as much or as little as you choose, with ample leisure time built in.

 

Life Aboard Silver Nova: The Ultra-Luxury Experience

Your floating home for the week is Silver Nova, Silversea’s newest flagship and one of the most spacious, intimate ships in luxury cruising. With a maximum of just 728 guests and 544 crew, Silver Nova offers an uncrowded, personalized voyage – perfect for our educational travel group. Here’s what you can look forward to on board:

  • Unwind in a lavish ocean-view suite – each with a private veranda (in almost all categories) and dedicated butler service for every guest. Your suite is a sanctuary of comfort, featuring plush bedding, a marble bathroom, and a seating area. Step onto your teak veranda with a morning coffee or sunset cocktail, and relish the ever-changing panoramas of the Aegean.

  • Silversea is famed for its nearly 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio, and on Silver Nova every detail is attended to with care. From the moment you embark, your butler and the attentive staff will know your name, your dining preferences, and how you take your tea or martini. This anticipatory service ensures you can completely relax and focus on discovery – leave the logistics to us.

  • Savor gourmet cuisine at sea with a variety of dining venues to suit every mood. Delight in elegant multi-course meals at La Dame or Atlantide, enjoy casual al fresco lunches at The Grill, or explore international flavors through Silversea’s S.A.L.T. program (Sea and Land Taste). All meals, whether in fine restaurants or via 24-hour in-suite dining, are included and of the highest quality. Premium wines, Champagnes, spirits, specialty coffees, and non-alcoholic beverages are complimentary throughout the ship, so you can toast to your adventures without a care.

  • Silver Nova’s innovative design offers myriad ways to enrich your time at sea. Attend engaging talks and discussions led by Professor Phillips in the ship’s beautiful theatre or lounges. Bask by the pool or visit the Otium Spa for a soothing treatment. Evenings bring live entertainment, from classical music to local cultural performances, as well as low-key pleasures like stargazing on deck or conversing in the elegant Observation Lounge. With nine different bars and lounges and an array of activities, you’ll find settings both social and intimate to suit your style. Despite the wealth of options, Silver Nova maintains a blissfully relaxed atmosphere – no crowds, no lines, just carefree indulgence.

  • Launched in 2023, Silver Nova is also Silversea’s most environmentally conscious ship. Her state-of-the-art hybrid technology and asymmetrical design minimize impact and maximize views. You can feel good about exploring the world aboard a vessel designed for a greener future, all while enjoying the pinnacle of luxury cruising.

 

Sustainable tourism

  • We are proud to offer a way of travel that prioritizes immersive learning over vanity tourism.

  • Our commitment to meaningful engagement with each destination empowers you to dive deep into cultural and natural wonders, fostering a lasting appreciation for the places you visit. This approach not only enhances your travel experience but aligns with the ideals of sustainable travel. 

  • Working collaboratively with local guides, we educate travelers about the cultural significance of each locale, ensuring that your adventures contribute positively to the communities you engage with and help to preserve the rich heritage for generations to come.

  • We chose Silver Nova: one of the most sustainable cruise ships in the world, contributing to minimizing the impact of our footprints. 

 

Pricing & Inclusions

We understand that a voyage of this caliber is an investment in your lifelong learning and enjoyment. Expeditioner Travel has curated an all-inclusive package that ensures you get excellent value and peace of mind. When you join our group and book through us, your cruise is reserved directly with Silversea — at special group fares plus exclusive added benefits for being part of the group. With virtually everything included except personal expenses, you can focus on savoring the experience.

Base Group Fare

  • Starting at $7,600 USD per person for a Veranda Suite on double occupancy basis ($5,350 USD with current promotional offer only available at Expeditioner); that is a total savings of $1,500 USD per cabin when compared to non-group fares.

  • Contact us for rates on premium suites and solo travelers. Limited solo cabins may have an extra charge.

  • Connecticut College parents and alumni get a $300 shipboard credit per cabin, plus any extra promotional shipboard credit that may be available at the time of booking.

  • As of July 2025, total shipboard credits can reach $1,400 per cabin for two people.

  • Your cruise fare encompasses all-suite accommodation aboard Silver Nova, all meals and beverages on board (including fine wines, spirits, and Champagne), gratuities for the ship’s crew, port charges and taxes, and a robust enrichment program exclusively for our group. Professor Phillips’s group talks and onboard events are included, as are several shore excursions tailored for our guests (such as guided tours of Ephesus, Knossos, and Mycenae). We’ve taken care to include the signature experiences that make this journey special.

  • Booking with this Expeditioner Travel program grants you extra perks: a welcome aboard cocktail reception with Professor Phillips and fellow travelers, an Expeditioner Travel program manager on site to assist throughout the trip, priority access to select shore excursions, and an exclusive shipboard credit (see above). You’ll travel in the company of like-minded adventurers, fostering a sense of camaraderie and lively discussion both on shore and on the ship.

  • International airfare to and from Athens is not included, allowing you the flexibility to use miles or extend your travels; however, we are happy to assist with air bookings or pre/post-cruise arrangements (see below more details of our specially curated pre-cruise package). Travel insurance is highly recommended and can be arranged separately. Personal expenses (e.g., spa treatments, boutique purchases) or optional premium excursions are not included.

  • A deposit (usually around 10% of the fare) will secure your reservation, with the balance typically due 90-120 days before departure. Flexible cancellation policies are in place as per Silversea’s terms (and we’ll guide you through insurance options for additional protection). Early booking is strongly encouraged, as this program is expected to sell out quickly given its unique nature and limited capacity.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  • A: This journey is ideal for lovers of history, culture, and luxury travel. You do not need to be an alumnus of Professor Phillips or Connecticut College – all inquisitive travelers are welcome. Our group typically includes alumni and friends of the college, lifelong learners, and couples or solo travelers who share a passion for exploring the ancient world. If you’ve always been fascinated by Greek mythology, classical archaeology, or simply enjoy traveling with an intellectual twist, you will feel right at home. The program is designed to be engaging for anyone curious about ancient Greek history – no prior knowledge required! Professor Phillips will provide plenty of context to enrich your understanding, whether you’re a complete novice or a seasoned history buff.

  • A: We purposely limit our group size to around 40 guests, to ensure an intimate, seminar-like atmosphere. This small group allows for personal interaction with Professor Phillips and fosters a friendly community feel – you’ll quickly get to know your fellow travelers. Silver Nova itself carries a maximum of 728 guests, which is relatively small by cruise standards, so the entire ship experience is more refined and uncrowded.

    Within our Expeditioner Travel group, we’ll have group excursions and gatherings, but you’ll also have opportunities to mingle with other Silversea guests if you wish. Many participants enjoy the best of both worlds: the camaraderie of our group and the chance to meet other interesting travelers during open-seating dinners or on deck. Ultimately, you can be as private or as sociable as you like; the atmosphere on board is very welcoming.

  • A: Reserving your spot is easy. Simply click the “Register Your Interest” link below and fill out the short form. Our team will follow up promptly to discuss availability, suite preferences, and any questions you may have. Once you’re ready, a deposit will secure your booking.

    We’ll provide a detailed welcome packet and be available to assist with flight arrangements or additional travel plans. As the departure date approaches, we’ll keep you informed with preparatory materials – including recommended reading lists, a full itinerary booklet, and tips for travel in Greece and Turkey.

    Because this is a unique departure with a renowned guest scholar, demand is high. We encourage you to inquire as soon as possible – even if you’re just considering – so we can hold a spot for you while you make your decision. Your booking is handled through Expeditioner Travel in partnership with Silversea, ensuring you get all the advantages of the cruise line’s service with the extra personalization of our program.

  • A: Our itinerary is paced for leisurely exploration, and most activities are moderate. If you can walk unassisted for a couple of hours and handle some stairs or uneven ancient terrain, you should be comfortable on the excursions. We build in rest time and you always have the option to skip any excursion and relax on board if you prefer.

    The Silver Nova has elevators and accessible facilities, and we can request assistance at sites when needed (like wheelchairs or slower walking tours) – just let us know your requirements in advance. Many archaeological sites (like the Acropolis of Lindos or parts of Ephesus) do involve steps or uphill paths, but our guides will ensure a comfortable pace. In short, you don’t have to be an athlete; this is travel at a civilized pace, suitable for active seniors and adults. We’re here to help every traveler enjoy the journey to the fullest.

  • A: No, the Silversea cruise will happen as planned. Your booking is made directly with the cruise line. But if there aren’t enough participants, Professor Phillips might not join in person. If that happens, he will give a remote lecture about the magnificent sites on the cruise.

Have another question? Feel free to contact us anytime. We want you to embark with excitement and confidence, well-informed about what to expect.

 

Ready to Join Us? – Register Your Interest

  • Spaces are limited, and a journey this enriching is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

  • Ready to turn your travel dreams into reality? Register your interest now to receive a detailed brochure and personal consultation. Simply reach out through our contact form and our travel specialists will get back to you. We’ll happily answer any remaining questions and guide you through the quick, easy booking process.

Register Your Interest now, and let your journey to the ancient world begin!

 

Optional Pre-Cruise Extension program: Discover the Heart of Athens with Professor Darryl Phillips*

3 Days, 2 Nights – Pre-Cruise Experience

  • Extend your luxury cruise experience with an unforgettable journey into the soul of classical Greece.

  • Athens, the birthplace of democracy and Greek philosophy, awaits you with its timeless treasures—from the awe-inspiring Acropolis to the vibrant streets of the historic Plaka district.

  • This exclusive, expertly curated program ensures you experience the very best of Athens with comfort, sophistication, and insight.

Professor Phillips discusses the Temple of Hercules Victor in Rome and its connections with Ancient Greece

Itinerary Highlights

  • After a long flight into Athens, you'll settle into a 5* Hotel and immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of the city.

    Overnight: A 5* Hotel near the Acropolis

    Meals: Group dinner hosted by Professor Darryl Phillips. (Breakfast and lunch independently)

  • After breakfast at the hotel, immerse yourself in Athens’ incomparable heritage. Your expert-led morning tour takes you to:

    • The New Acropolis Museum: Explore over 4,000 artifacts, spanning the Greek Bronze Age to Byzantine periods, beautifully displayed in this world-renowned museum.

    • The Acropolis: Marvel at the architectural masterpieces including the iconic Parthenon, the graceful Temple of Athena Nike, the majestic Propylaea, and the Erechtheum, famed for its elegant Porch of Maidens.

    • National Archaeological Museum (afternoon, optional): Discover priceless masterpieces of Cycladic, Minoan, Mycenaean, and Classical Greek art, including the famous Golden Mask of Agamemnon and stunning bronze sculptures.

    Enjoy leisurely free time exploring the Ancient Agora and Plaka, Athens’ charming old town. Wander picturesque streets, browse boutiques, or savor authentic Greek cuisine at local cafés.

    Overnight: A 5* Hotel near the Acropolis

    Meals: Breakfast at the Hotel (lunch and dinner independently)

  • Following a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, check out of the hotel and embark on an exclusive tour, guided by Darryl Phillips, of a hidden gem museum in Athens that contains magnificent artefacts of classical culture (to be revealed on the day).

    We will then transport you to Piraeus port where you will board the Silver Nova for a late lunch.

    Meals: Breakfast included. Late lunch served onboard Silver Nova

  • Perfectly positioned and offer stunning views of the Acropolis and Parliament, world-class amenities and exceptional restaurants, it’s the ideal sanctuary for your Athens adventure.

    • 2 nights’ luxury accommodation at a 5* hotel

    • Entrance fees to historical sites and museums

    • Group evening meal (Day 1)

    • Breakfast daily (Days 2 & 3)

    • Guided sightseeing as detailed, with expert local English-speaking guide

    • Transfers and luggage handling: Hotel to Cruise port (Day 3)

    • All gratuities for local guides and drivers

    Not Included:

    • Personal expenses (meals not listed, optional activities, shopping)

    • Transfers outside scheduled program dates

    • Early check-in/late check-out (available upon request, subject to availability and additional fees)

    • Please submit flight details at least 60 days before departure to secure airport transfer.

    • Official currency: Euro (€). Major credit cards widely accepted.

    • Offered as a complete package; no refunds for unused portions.

    • Program is limited in availability; early booking recommended.

    • Itinerary subject to change.

Reserve Your Pre-Cruise Experience Today

Enhance your cruise with an unforgettable exploration of Athens—rich in history, culture, and beauty. Availability is limited, so we encourage you to book early to secure your place.

*Depends on number of participants. The tour will be re-organised but may not feature Professor Phillips if the total number of participants is below 10.