Piraeus to Civitavecchia

Mykonos, a former 18th-century pirates’ bastion, is now a sophisticated and cosmopolitan island resort. This quintessential Greek island offers a maze of winding streets, graceful windmills, inviting beaches, domed churches and whitewashed houses accented in blue. Dotting the waterfront are cafés, taverns and tempting shops.

Alovely seaside resort town on the Aegean coast, Kusadaşi is famous for sparkling waters, sandy beaches and enticing shops filled with designer clothing and hand-woven carpets and leather goods. More than these modern trappings, it is the gateway to Ephesus – the UNESCO-listed, 4,000 year old city – as well as the Temple of Artemis (one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World), Basilica of St. John, and House of the Virgin Mary.

Of all the Cyclades Islands, Santorini is often considered the most dramatic. Once an active volcano, it was known as Stongyle, or the Round Island. In about 1500 BC, the volcano erupted with such force that the center of the island literally exploded, leaving the haunting submerged crater into which Crystal Serenity sails. The island’s small villages were preserved in the ashes and recent excavations have uncovered a fascinating view of everyday life from 3,500 years ago. Santorini’s dark landscape offsets its simple, yet refined Cycladic buildings, which glimmer in the sunlight. The rich volcanic soil is ideal for grapes and the local vines produce a cherished crop known for its “special volcanic taste.” Thíra, or Fira Town, is laid out along the edge of a cliff that partially forms the rim of the now extinct caldera. A picturesque site, it exudes charm and an atmosphere of leisure that can be attributed to the easy-going Greek lifestyle.

As your ship approaches the Sorrento Peninsula, delight in craggy cliffs draped with flowing pink blossoms.Renowned for its serene way of life, this romantic port exudes a special magic. Its dramatic bluffs and surrounding flowered hills bid travelers welcome to a town overflowing with charm and character. It is easy to relax in this languid southern Italian atmosphere.The sensational Amalfi Coast and the haunting ruins at Pompeii are among the region’s highlights.

Venture through Civitavecchia, noted for its fine seafood and beautiful monuments. Then, travel to the Eternal City of Rome, with more than 2,500 years of history and ancient landmarks that will leave you with memories for a lifetime.