Windstar Cruises
Windstar Cruises, voted The World’s Best Small Ship Cruise Line, accommodate between 148 and 342 guests for a sense of privacy, freedom and intimacy.
Your 8-night cruise will be preceded by a 2-night pre-cruise stay in Athens pairing modern opulence with ancient history and will be followed by a 2-night post-cruise stay in Venice, where you will stay in the eclectic and theatrical quarters of the Metropole hotel. On board, Greek temples, rugged coastal mountain ranges, and rustic, tile-roofed villages dotting the eastern Adriatic shoreline define this exceptional 8-day cruise. Toast the benefits of Croatian microclimates during a wine tasting near rocky vineyards outside Zadar. Sail, swim and snorkel at a pristine archipelago near Hvar, or rise early to pick fresh, organic vegetables for your family-style Croatian breakfast in the village of Hora, near there. Master Montenegro cuisine under the guidance of a decorated restaurant chef in Kotor. Admire the royal ambiance of Achillion, the Greek mansion of a former Austrian empress on Corfu. And enjoy Greek music performances and take your mark on the hallowed grounds of Olympia, the birthplace of Greek and global athletic competitions.
Pre-cruise stay
Before your voyage on the seas, you will spend two nights in Athens at the 5-star King George, a Luxury Collection Hotel. Dating back to 1930 and located in the centre of Athens, this hotel represents the absolute essence of a fascinating, luxurious boutique hotel in Athens. Perfectly situated for captivating experiences, and a truly inspiring and gracious venue, our design hotel is located within walking distance from the wonders of Athens. The Acropolis, Agora, Plaka, Thission and Monastiraki Flea Market are nearby, so are upmarket boutiques, world-renowned museums and the city’s vibrant business district.
Day 1
Monemvasia is a Gibraltar-like town tied to the mainland by a single thread of causeway which holds treasures that are old even by Mediterranean standards, with town walls and several churches dating to the 12th century. Climb to the upper town for an up-close look at the castle and Agia Sophia, a Byzantine church. Wander the lanes of the lower town lined with Venetian mansions, many of which have been lovingly restored. Savor the sun on a smooth pebble beach.
Day 2
Charming and scenic Katakolon is the gateway to Olympia, the original home of the Olympic Games and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can visit this memorable site only 30 minutes away and see the fertile Peloponnese valleys along the way, full of strawberries, tomatoes, corn and olive trees.
Day 3
One of the most beautiful and popular islands, located on the Ionian Sea, Corfu has wonderful beaches and small villages throughout the island. Take in the Venetian influence at the two fortresses located in Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Day 4
This is one of Montenegro’s most beautiful bays, and the approach offers one breathtaking fjord-like view after another. Just when you’ve reached your fill of blues and greens, the bright red rooftops of the medieval Old Town come into view. The entire area has been proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The charming streets of Old Town remain car free, filled with 12th century Baroque palaces and Romanesque churches. For a fresh perspective, climb to the fortress on the hill for a breathtaking vista.
Day 5
While larger ships must pass by, we anchor right beyond the famous walled city so you can admire its beauty with every glance. Tender ashore and step right into Old Town, a UNESCO site where no cars are allowed, just eons of history. Capture the exhilarating views on your camera — and in your memory. End your day at the Buza Café (if you can find it) watching bold divers leap off the cliffs into the crystalline sea.
Day 6
Celebrities from Prince Harry to Beyoncé have made Hvar their go-to place. Follow the city walls to sweeping views from the fortress on the hill. Head to the town square for a look at the Venetian Cathedral or find the large bay of Stari Grad on an optional tour to this famous UNESCO site.
Day 7
Something here will capture your heart. A Roman amphitheater, 9th century churches, and museums packed with Byzantine-era artworks crowd the peninsula that tidily contains the Old Town. It’s a tempting way to spend the day for sure. While away the day listening to Zadar’s giant Sea Organ, a haunting musical improv performed by the surging Adriatic or share a bench with a sun-drunk cat as you bite into a truffle.
Day 8
No other sea approach in the Adriatic raises goose bumps like Venice, a small ship exclusive where the entire city and its lagoon are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On your luxurious home-away-from home, you arrive already equipped with a sense of what it’s like to live in the city that’s neither land nor water. Add your own sigh to the Bridge of Sighs, sip a spritz al bitter as you plot your agenda, and let the water taxis do your navigating unless you don’t mind getting lost. Not such a bad prospect, with serendipitous discoveries around every corner.
Post-cruise stay
After a glorious journey across the seas, you'll finish with 2 nights in Venice at Metropole, a marvelous fixture in the heart of Venice. Overlooking the lagoon, Metropole captures the theatrical style, sophistication and charm of Venice. Enjoy the pleasures previously reserved only for the aristocratic echelons of society with the hotel's indulgent spa treatments, exquisite dining and charming rooms and suites.