Ancient Mosaics

Winding pathways from ancient times transformed into modern-day roads and streets lead you to the monumental gateway of the Acropolis and other archaeological sites. Athens is a land soaked in history and mythology, but not stuck in the past. Through back alleys, passing street art and getting serenaded by street musicians, you are never lost. You may find yourself at the likes of the Church of Agioi at the southeast corner of the Holy Apostles Ancient Agora, a less-crowded site away from flocks of tourists. Haggle with local vendors at the Plaka or Monastiraki flea market.

Welcome to Milos, the gem of the Aegean Sea, where ancient geological wonders and rich cultural heritage blend seamlessly. As you step off the yacht, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking views of turquoise waters framed by colorful cliffs, each telling a story of volcanic origins. Milos boasts over 70 beaches, from the striking white sands of Sarakiniko to the hidden beauty of Kleftiko. Experience history firsthand with visits to ancient ruins and the fascinating Catacombs of Milos. Meander through picturesque fishing villages like Klima, with its vibrant boathouses. Savor authentic Greek flavors with local delicacies. Milos is a serenade of adventure, history, and culinary delight—all waiting for you to explore.

Picture this: marble ruins of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World right before your eyes. Through the rubble you gaze upon the Temple of Artemis. This is the experience of Ephesus, a UNESCO-listed, 4,000-year-old city located in Selcuk that is considered the best-preserved classical city of the eastern Mediterranean. These explorations all start in the coastal resort town of Kusadasi from the Aegean Sea. Countless historical ruins abound in the region, including the Basilica of St. John, the House of the Virgin Mary and the Library of Celsus, an ancient Roman site where its namesake is buried in a crypt beneath.

The "Holy Island" of Patmos holds religious history as the site where St. John wrote the Book of Revelations. Venturing over to the Cave of the Apocalypse amid the hills between Skala and Chora, you get a whole new view of the countryside. Along the seaside village you find an array of restaurants with the fresh catch of the day. With quintessential whitewashed houses in the Greek style and iconic windmills against a backdrop of blue skies, the Sacred Land of the Aegean also offers breathtaking panoramas that will impress the most experienced travelers.

One of the most sophisticated of the Greek Isles, Hydra, lies in the Argo Saronic Gulf. This island is a popular getaway for celebrities and the elite, making it an exceptional destination for the explorer that wants cultural immersions. Various historical sites and landmarks like the bastions surrounding the port, the Merchant Marine Academy and Monastery of Agia Efpraxia tell the island’s story throughout the years. The three main villages – Hydra Town, Vlichos and Kaminia – each hold a different facet of Greek life. Hydra also offers a surplus of beaches to bask in the sun on the sandy shores.

Sailing the Ionian Sea reveals a mesmerizing expanse of blue water that shimmers beneath the Mediterranean sun. As you glide along ancient maritime routes, the horizon gives way to verdant island coastlines and dramatic limestone cliffs plunging into the deep. High above the shoreline, hillside villages and terraced olive groves paint a picture of enduring tranquility, with pale stonework contrasting against the lush green. The sea itself feels alive with gentle movement. Traditional fishing boats bob rhythmically in the distance, while seabirds glide effortlessly on the ocean breezes just overhead. If you look closely at the yacht’s wake, you might even spot a pod of dolphins playfully breaking the surface. This serene journey builds quiet anticipation for the cultural treasures awaiting on the next shore.

Off the coast of Sicily you find the volcanic Aeolian Islands, the largest of which is Lipari. But not to worry, as the island’s last eruption took place over 1,000 years ago and the only signs of volcanic activity today are fumaroles and thermal springs. From a place in ancient Greek mythology to UNESCO World Heritage status, the Aeolian Islands and Lipari hold a rich and intriguing history. Seek the ultimate views with an invigorating hike through Monte Rosa. Archaeological excavations within the citadel tell a story dating as far back as the Neolithic era.

The island of Capri is the gem of the Bay of Naples. In Capri you can marvel at the whitewashed homes and villas, fragrant lemon trees and flower-filled courtyards. From the water, be sure to visit the Grotta Azzurra (Blue Grotto), which is only accessible by boat. Once inside the cave, you can marvel at the water’s sapphire color, which is caused by the light refraction from the hidden opening in the rock. Also from the water, see the Arco Naturale on the east coast of the island. Dating from the Paleolithic age, the limestone arch is the remains of a collapsed grotto.

The grand city of Naples beckons with a vibrant waterfront. Within the bay stands Megaride Island, home of the Castel dell’Ovo. Legend has it that the poet Virgil housed a magical egg there that protects it, and the very city, from ruin. A jaunt through the city takes you through a blend of architecture and art. And Neapolitans agree you should take a walk through Via dei Tribunali, "Pizza Alley," for the best slice with signature charred dough. For a look into times past, make your way to Mount Vesuvius. Here you will find the surrounding ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum.