Islands of the Mediterranean

Known as the birthplace of Western civilisation, Athens is a vibrant tapestry of history and modernity. Standing sentinel above the city is the famous Acropolis, a fortified hill dominated by the Parthenon, atmospheric ruins of a white marble temple built during the height of the ancient Greek Empire. Wander the charming Plaka district, which hugs the foothill of the Acropolis and is the city’s oldest neighbourhood.

This afternoon, step on board Scenic Eclipse II. Your journey into wonder begins with a warm greeting from the Captain and the crew. Meet your butler and settle into your spacious suite. Sip on a glass of Champagne and explore your luxurious suite, then join your fellow guests at the Sky Bar to toast the start of an unforgettable voyage.

Please book your flight to arrive into Athens prior to 02:00 PM.

Embark your ship and settle into your stateroom. Athens has been called the “birthplace of democracy.” Its legacy looms large from atop Acropolis Hill, the pinnacle of ancient Greece. This open air museum is an astonishing repository of once-mighty structures. From its colonnaded Parthenon—built more than 2,600 years ago—revered Greek philosophers like Plato and Aristotle formulated new ideas of government and debated its role in civic life to captivated audiences. Remnants of spiritual life are also here in the several temples to Athena and Zeus.

Welcome to Mykonos, a cosmopolitan island where pristine beaches meet the charm of Cycladic architecture. The island is known for its hedonistic atmosphere, however it has a more relaxed side to it. Explore the winding streets adorned with whitewashed buildings and vibrant bougainvillea, see its iconic windmills, picturesque churches, and dine in lively waterfront cafes.

Return to the ship later this evening for dinner with newly made friends or request a private meal delivered to your suite, before retreating to your supremely comfortable Scenic Slumber Bed.

Although the fishing boats still go out in good weather, Mykonos largely makes its living from tourism these days. The summer crowds have turned one of the poorest islands in Greece into one of the richest. Old Mykonians complain that their young, who have inherited stores where their grandfathers once sold eggs or wine, get so much rent that they have lost ambition, and in summer sit around pool bars at night with their friends, and hang out in Athens in winter when island life is less scintillating. Put firmly on the map by Jackie O in the 1960s, Mykonos town—called Hora by the locals—remains the Saint-Tropez of the Greek islands. The scenery is memorable, with its whitewashed streets, Little Venice, the Kato Myli ridge of windmills, and Kastro, the town's medieval quarter. Its cubical two- or three-story houses and churches, with their red or blue doors and domes and wooden balconies, have been long celebrated as some of the best examples of classic Cycladic architecture. Luckily, the Greek Archaeological Service decided to preserve the town, even when the Mykonians would have preferred to rebuild, and so the Old Town has been impressively preserved. Pink oleander, scarlet hibiscus, and trailing green pepper trees form a contrast amid the dazzling whiteness, whose frequent renewal with whitewash is required by law. Any visitor who has the pleasure of getting lost in its narrow streets (made all the narrower by the many outdoor stone staircases, which maximize housing space in the crowded village) will appreciate how its confusing layout was designed to foil pirates—if it was designed at all. After Mykonos fell under Turkish rule in 1537, the Ottomans allowed the islanders to arm their vessels against pirates, which had a contradictory effect: many of them found that raiding other islands was more profitable than tilling arid land. At the height of Aegean piracy, Mykonos was the principal headquarters of the corsair fleets—the place where pirates met their fellows, found willing women, and filled out their crews. Eventually the illicit activity evolved into a legitimate and thriving trade network. Morning on Mykonos town's main quay is busy with deliveries, visitors for the Delos boats, lazy breakfasters, and street cleaners dealing with the previous night's mess. In late morning the cruise-boat people arrive, and the shops are all open. In early afternoon, shaded outdoor tavernas are full of diners eating salads (Mykonos's produce is mostly imported); music is absent or kept low. In mid- and late afternoon, the town feels sleepy, since so many people are at the beach, on excursions, or sleeping in their air-conditioned rooms; even some tourist shops close for siesta. By sunset, people have come back from the beach, having taken their showers and rested. At night, the atmosphere in Mykonos ramps up. The cruise-boat people are mostly gone, coughing three-wheelers make no deliveries in the narrow streets, and everyone is dressed sexy for summer and starting to shimmy with the scene. Many shops stay open past midnight, the restaurants fill up, and the bars and discos make ice cubes as fast as they can. Ready to dive in? Begin your tour of Mykonos town (Hora) by starting out at its heart: Mando Mavrogenous Square.

Santorini is a dreamy destination with whitewashed buildings and azure-domed churches clinging to dramatic cliffs. Lose yourself in the maze-like streets of Fira or Oia, explore ancient ruins in Akrotiri or relax on the black sands of Perissa Beach. The town is built on a caldera (a volcanic depression), and you can stand at its edge for the breathtaking sunset that paints the sky hues of orange and pink. Scenic Eclipse II will stay docked in Santorini until late tonight, giving you the opportunity to explore the island after dark.

Undoubtedly the most extraordinary island in the Aegean, crescent-shape Santorini remains a mandatory stop on the Cycladic tourist route—even if it's necessary to enjoy the sensational sunsets from Ia, the fascinating excavations, and the dazzling white towns with a million other travelers. Called Kállisti (the "Loveliest") when first settled, the island has now reverted to its subsequent name of Thira, after the 9th-century-BC Dorian colonizer Thiras. The place is better known, however, these days as Santorini, a name derived from its patroness, St. Irene of Thessaloniki, the Byzantine empress who restored icons to Orthodoxy and died in 802. You can fly conveniently to Santorini, but to enjoy a true Santorini rite of passage, opt instead for the boat trip here, which provides a spectacular introduction. After the boat sails between Sikinos and Ios, your deck-side perch approaches two close islands with a passage between them. The bigger one on the left is Santorini, and the smaller on the right is Thirassia. Passing between them, you see the village of Ia adorning Santorini's northernmost cliff like a white geometric beehive. You are in the caldera (volcanic crater), one of the world's truly breathtaking sights: a demilune of cliffs rising 1,100 feet, with the white clusters of the towns of Fira and Ia perched along the top. The bay, once the high center of the island, is 1,300 feet in some places, so deep that when boats dock in Santorini's shabby little port of Athinios, they do not drop anchor. The encircling cliffs are the ancient rim of a still-active volcano, and you are sailing east across its flooded caldera. On your right are the Burnt isles, the White isle, and other volcanic remnants, all lined up as if some outsize display in a geology museum. Hephaestus's subterranean fires smolder still—the volcano erupted in 198 BC, about 735, and there was an earthquake in 1956. Indeed, Santorini and its four neighboring islets are the fragmentary remains of a larger landmass that exploded about 1600 BC: the volcano's core blew sky high, and the sea rushed into the abyss to create the great bay, which measures 10 km by 7 km (6 mi by 4½ mi) and is 1,292 feet deep. The other pieces of the rim, which broke off in later eruptions, are Thirassia, where a few hundred people live, and deserted little Aspronissi ("White isle"). In the center of the bay, black and uninhabited, two cones, the Burnt Isles of Palea Kameni and Nea Kameni, appeared between 1573 and 1925. There has been too much speculation about the identification of Santorini with the mythical Atlantis, mentioned in Egyptian papyri and by Plato (who says it's in the Atlantic), but myths are hard to pin down. This is not true of old arguments about whether tidal waves from Santorini's cataclysmic explosion destroyed Minoan civilization on Crete, 113 km (70 mi) away. The latest carbon-dating evidence, which points to a few years before 1600 BC for the eruption, clearly indicates that the Minoans outlasted the eruption by a couple of hundred years, but most probably in a weakened state. In fact, the island still endures hardships: since antiquity, Santorini has depended on rain collected in cisterns for drinking and irrigating—the well water is often brackish—and the serious shortage is alleviated by the importation of water. However, the volcanic soil also yields riches: small, intense tomatoes with tough skins used for tomato paste (good restaurants here serve them); the famous Santorini fava beans, which have a light, fresh taste; barley; wheat; and white-skin eggplants.

Chania, the former capital of Crete, boasts a rich history dating back thousands of years, with influences from various civilisations such as Minoan, Venetian, and Ottoman. Its charming maze-like Old Town is known for a picturesque harbour, narrow cobblestone streets, and well-preserved Venetian and Turkish architecture. Spend the day exploring historic landmarks such as the Venetian lighthouse and the Byzantine walls.

Your ultra-luxury Scenic Eclipse II departs late this evening. Explore the city a little more before enjoying one of up to 10 all-inclusive dining experiences on board, sampling from fine French cuisine at Lumière to vibrant Asian fusion at Koko’s.

The second-largest city in Crete and capital of the Homonym Prefecture, Chania is located in Minoan Kidonia at the end of the Homonym Gulf between the Akrotiri and Onicha peninsulas. Chania City is divided into two parts; the Old Town, which is comprised of several connected districts built around the old Venetian Harbour, and New Town, a larger, more modern city whose centre is situated next to, and south of, the Old Town. The Old Town is home to Venetian buildings and Turkish elements that combine to create a unique architectural style, and is considered to be the most beautiful urban district on Crete. It was once surrounded by old Venetian fortifications that separated it from the New Town; however, only the eastern and western parts remain today. Due to its compact size, Skiathos can be easily explored in just a single day.

At sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind, and enjoy the peaceful rhythm of life onboard. Guests can visit the gym for a workout, indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment, or simply find a comfortable spot on deck to watch for whales and admire the endless ocean views. They can also enjoy onboard entertainment, read a favorite book, or savor delicious meals at their own pace. With no rush to disembark, these tranquil blue sea days provide a refreshing break from the excitement of sightseeing. The balance between leisurely days at sea and adventurous days ashore creates a truly rewarding and memorable cruise experience.

Taormina has been one of Sicily’s most popular summer destinations since the 18th century. Dominating this small town’s landscape is Mount Etna, the largest active volcano in Europe. Located above the Ionian Sea and boasting a rich artistic, historical and cultural heritage, Taormina is known for its stunning ancient theatre, pretty piazzas, elegant atmosphere and delicious arancini (Sicilian rice balls). Scenic Eclipse II will be docked here until late tonight, giving you ample time to explore this fabulous town as the city lights start to sparkle.

The journey from Giardini Naxos on through Taormina holds a diverse landscape that includes white, sandy beaches that call out to you to come and play. Taormina holds a treasure trove, whether it’s the Palazzo Corvaja or Duomo di San Nicola, of ancient atmospheres that entice you to venture deep. As you wander the grounds of the Ancient Greek Theater built directly into the mountains, standing amid such ruins transports you back to ancient live theater. The surrounding peaks of Mount Etna provide an exhilarating environment. Its various foothills and pathways make it the perfect site for hiking.

A World Heritage-listed site, Lipari is the largest and most populated of the seven Aeolian islands off the north coast of Sicily. From its panoramic position, a castle overlooks the seafront of pastel-coloured townhouses, with windswept highlands and steep cliffs in the distance. Inhabited since 5,000 BC, this volcanic archipelago boasts an historic harbour, picturesque streets and hiking trails.

Tonight, explore more of the up to 10 all-inclusive on board dining experiences, sampling fine French cuisine at Lumière or vibrant Asian fusion at Koko’s. Alternatively, choose to dine in the comfort of your suite and have your evening nightcap brought by your butler, choosing from a range of premium wines, beers and spirits.

The largest and most developed of the Aeolians, Lipari welcomes you with distinctive pastel-color houses. Fields of spiky agaves dot the northernmost tip of the island, Acquacalda, indented with pumice and obsidian quarries. In the west is San Calogero, where you can explore hot springs and mud baths. From the red-lava base of the island rises a plateau crowned with a 16th-century castle and a 17th-century cathedral.

Indulge with a sleep-in, gently lulled by the rhythm of the ocean. Enjoy breakfast in the alfresco Yacht Club and spend time in the Observation Lounge reading a book or playing a board game as Scenic Eclipse II cruises towards Sardinia.

Nestled in the heart of Sardinia's Costa Smeralda, this town blends romantic, traditional architecture with vibrant Mediterranean beauty. As the playground of the jet set, Porto Cervo exudes glamour and charm against the backdrop of stunning beaches. Browse the luxurious shops, unwind in a beach club, or sample local culinary delights in one of the city’s restaurants.

Porto Cervo is the main resort and a celebrity hotspot on the Costa Smeralda (Emerald Coast) of Sardinia, Italy. It is renowned worldwide for its exclusive atmosphere, high-end yacht harbor, luxury shopping, and pristine beaches.

Attractions:

• The Porto Cervo Marina
  A central point of interest, the harbor is one of the most exclusive marinas in the Mediterranean, offering fantastic views of luxurious super-yachts. The adjacent waterfront promenade, Sottopiazza, features luxury boutiques from international designers.

• Piazza Azzurra
  The main town square, a gathering spot for high-end dining and people-watching. The area is architecturally distinct, with pastel-colored buildings winding around the hillside.

• Stella Maris Church
  A striking, modern church designed by architect Michele Busiri Vici. It features a unique, curved architectural style and houses important art, including a Mater Dolorosa attributed to El Greco.

• Luxury Shopping
  Porto Cervo is famous for its concentration of high-end brands, including designer fashion, jewelry, and art galleries, primarily located around the Sottopiazza and Piazza Azzurra.

• Beaches of the Costa Smeralda
  The primary draw of the region. Many spectacular beaches are easily accessible from the town:

  • Spiaggia del Principe (Prince's Beach): One of the most famous and beautiful beaches, named after Prince Karim Aga Khan IV.

  • Grande Pevero Beach: A large, popular beach with fine white sand and clear, shallow water.

• Cala di Volpe: Known for its iconic bay and the luxury hotel located there.

Start your day with a coffee delivered to your suite by your butler. You may wish to book a treatment# at the indulgent Senses Spa. Perhaps an ESPA facial# or an alternative therapy such as Ayuverdic massage.

Life on Menorca flows gently with the waves. Known for its British-style Georgian houses and medieval streets, filled with palaces, churches and fortresses, Mahon is truly Vella i Bella (‘Old and Beautiful’). Discover the town's history as you wander its historic old town, where remnants of the medieval town still stand including an old gate tower.

The capital of Menorca since 1721, Mahon has a impressive natural deep water harbour, which is one of the largest in the world. This, coupled with its strategic location, has made it a stronghold for many nations throughout history. Mahon has an abundance of historical buildings, the oldest being the Arch of Saint Roc which is all that remains of the wall that once encircled the whole town. The island was occupied by the British during the 18th century and Lord Nelson is thought to have stayed there. Indeed, San Antoni Mansion, located on the north side of the harbour, houses a collection of Nelson memorabilia. The legacy of colonial rule can be seen in the muted Georgian style of some of the buildings, but Mahon still boasts attractive examples of neo-Classical, Baroque and Romanesque architecture. With narrow streets to explore, pleasant shaded squares and welcoming pavement cafés, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Please be aware that most shops in town close for a siesta between 1330 and 1730.

Ibiza is one of the four main Balearic Islands, a sun-kissed archipelago off the east coast of Spain. It’s known as one of the world’s great party capitals, famed for its beach clubs, bars and nightclubs. Its beaches are undeniably beautiful, but you will also discover archaeological sites and tiny, whitewashed villages almost untouched by modern life. Inland, the island is all limestone hills and lush pine forest, and home to artisan producers.  

Once you’ve explored the island, enjoy a drink at the Sky Bar or Yacht Club Terrace while watching the epic Ibiza sunset.

Hedonistic and historic, Eivissa (Ibiza, in Castilian) is a city jam-packed with cafés, nightspots, and trendy shops; looming over it are the massive stone walls of Dalt Vila —the medieval city declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1999—and its Gothic cathedral. Squeezed between the north walls of the old city and the harbor is Sa Penya, a long labyrinth of stone-paved streets that offer some of the city's best offbeat shopping, snacking, and exploring. The tourist information office on Vara de Rey has a useful map of walks through the old city.

For thousands of years, Cartagena has been a busy port thanks to its natural harbour. This city’s long history is evidenced through its archaeological ruins – the 3rd century fortified castle that overlooks the city and the 2nd century amphitheatre. Its old town boasts pretty plazas and a plethora of beautiful Art Nouveau architecture.

Tonight is your last day on board, so celebrate your journey with a farewell dinner with your new friends. Perhaps choose an elegant dinner at French restaurant Lumière, with pre-dinner drinks at the luxurious Champagne Bar. Then settle in at the spacious Scenic Lounge Bar to enjoy your beverage of choice, whether it be aged whiskey—there are over 130 varieties—or a glass of wine, reflecting on your journey's discoveries.

A Mediterranean city and naval station located in the Region of Murcia, southeastern Spain, Cartagena’s sheltered bay has attracted sailors for centuries. The Carthaginians founded the city in 223BC and named it Cartago Nova; it later became a prosperous Roman colony, and a Byzantine trading centre. The city has been the main Spanish Mediterranean naval base since the reign of King Philip II, and is still surrounded by walls built during this period. Cartagena’s importance grew with the arrival of the Spanish Bourbons in the 18th century, when the Navidad Fortress was constructed to protect the harbour. In recent years, traces of the city’s fascinating past have been brought to light: a well-preserved Roman Theatre was discovered in 1988, and this has now been restored and opened to the public. During your free time, you may like to take a mini-cruise around Cartagena's historic harbour: these operate several times a day, take approximately 40 minutes and do not need to be booked in advance. Full details will be available at the port.

Your journey ends in the city of Málaga, on Spain’s spectacular Costa del Sol. The birthplace of Pablo Picasso, Málaga is one of the oldest cities in the world. After one final delicious breakfast on board Scenic Eclipse II, it’s time to disembark your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht, taking with you a lifetime of memories of this truly unique journey in the Mediterranean.

Please book your flight to depart out of Malaga after 12:00 PM.

#Spa treatments at additional cost. +All drinks on board, including those stocked in your mini bar, are included, except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits.

Note: the itinerary is a guide and may be subject to changes for operational reasons. Refer to our terms and conditions for further information.

As you sail into Malaga you will notice what an idyllic setting the city enjoys on the famous Costa del Sol. To the east of this provincial capital, the coast along the region of La Axarqua is scattered with villages, farmland and sleepy fishing hamlets - the epitome of traditional rural Spain. To the west stretches a continuous city where the razzmatazz and bustle creates a colourful contrast that is easily recognisable as the Costa del Sol. Surrounding the region, the Penibéetica Mountains provide an attractive backdrop overlooking the lower terraced slopes which yield olives and almonds. This spectacular mountain chain shelters the province from cold northerly winds, giving it a reputation as a therapeutic and exotic place in which to escape from cold northern climes. Malaga is also the gateway to many of Andalusia's enchanting historic villages, towns and cities.