Name: Athens to Valletta: Myths of the Mediterranean
Brand: AE Expeditions

Overview

With Athens in your wake and Mediterranean ahead, this 16-night AE Expeditions sailing aboard Douglas Mawson promises a journey to remember. Calling at Mykonos, Kotor, and Siracuse, Sicily among 3 ports, this cruise is packed with opportunities to explore. Life on board the Douglas Mawson is as much a part of this holiday as the ports themselves - and AE Expeditions ensures there's plenty to enjoy both on board and ashore. Fares for this AE Expeditions sailing begin at just £10,876 per person.

AE Expeditions

AE Expeditions is a small Australian cruise line which specialises in off-the-beaten-track voyages led by remote area experts.

The company’s adventurous co-founders, Greg and Margaret Mortimer, established AE Expeditions in 1991 and had by the following year, already begun running voyages to Antarctica

Cruise Itinerary

Days 1-3

Athens

Athens, the cradle of democracy, where philosophers like Plato and Aristotle shaped the foundations of Western thought, offers more than just a stroll through ancient ruins. With a climate that boasts mild winters and warm, sunny summers, it's ideal for year-round exploration. The city offers an authentic glimpse into the Greek way of life, away from the typical tourist traps, with bustling local markets and traditional cafes hidden in plain sight among the city's modern hustle. Cruise lines such as Norwegian and Royal Caribbean offer tailored excursions to iconic spots like the Acropolis, yet it's the lesser-known Philopappos Hill that provides breathtaking views of the entire cityscape, including a direct line of sight to the Parthenon, adding a unique layer to the visitor experience.

Day 4

Mykonos

The island of Mykonos, where the mythic winds were said to be tamed by Apollo himself, is a destination that cruise lines like Celebrity and MSC expertly highlight for its serene beauty and vibrant local life. With a climate that blesses the island with sun-drenched days and cooling breezes, it is perfect for those who wish to explore at a leisurely pace. This place escapes the usual clamor of mainstream spots, offering an unspoiled glimpse into the lifestyle that has been preserved over the ages. Unique to Mykonos are the iconic windmills from the 16th century, standing as silent sentinels over the town, providing a picturesque backdrop that is as photogenic as it is historic.

Day 5

Kusadasi

Welcome to Kusadasi, where the sands of time reveal tales of ancient civilizations and maritime adventures. Here, amidst the gentle Mediterranean climate and azure waters, cruise lines dock to unveil the treasures of this historic port city. Kusadasi offers an authentic escape from the typical tourist traps, with its winding streets, bustling markets, and welcoming locals. As a showcase for the real Turkey, Kusadasi boasts a rich culinary scene, where traditional Turkish delights tantalize the taste buds. And did you know? Kusadasi is home to the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, attracting travelers from far and wide to marvel at its majestic ruins.

Day 6

Santorini

Set amidst the azure waters of the Aegean Sea, Santorini beckons with its legendary tales of volcanic eruptions and ancient civilizations. Its iconic whitewashed buildings perched atop dramatic cliffs paint a picture of timeless beauty. The Mediterranean climate blesses visitors with warm summers and mild winters, making it a year-round destination for sun-seeking travelers. Escape the tourist crowds by exploring charming villages like Oia, where narrow streets wind through traditional Cycladic architecture. Don't miss the opportunity to taste the island's famed Assyrtiko wine, cultivated from grapes grown in volcanic soil, creating a unique and unforgettable flavor profile.

Day 7

At sea

Day 8

Katakolon

Day 9

Corfu

Day 10

Kotor

Day 11

Dubrovnik

Day 12

Korčula

Day 13

Bari

Bari, a port city nestled along Italy's Adriatic coast, beckons with a history as vibrant as its sun-drenched streets. Famous for its ancient roots tracing back to Greek and Roman times, Bari offers a glimpse into the captivating past of Southern Italy. The Mediterranean climate blesses travelers with warm, sunny days perfect for strolling through the winding alleys of the old town, where authentic trattorias and bustling markets await. Unlike the typical tourist destinations, Bari retains its authentic charm, providing cruisegoers with an immersive experience in the real Italy. And did you know? Bari is home to the Basilica di San Nicola, housing the relics of Saint Nicholas, making it a pilgrimage site for many.

Day 14

At sea

Day 15

Siracuse, Sicily

Welcome to Siracusa, where ancient myths and legends intertwine with the present. Set along the sparkling shores of the Ionian Sea, Siracusa basks in a Mediterranean climate, inviting cruisegoers to immerse themselves in its timeless charm. Away from the typical tourist traps, this coastal gem offers an authentic experience that showcases the true essence of Italy. Cruise lines often dock here to provide travelers with a glimpse into the country's soul, from exploring the ancient Greek ruins of Neapolis to strolling through the enchanting streets of Ortygia. As a testament to its rich history, Siracusa boasts one of the largest Greek theaters in the world, where performances still captivate audiences to this day.

Days 16-17

Valletta

Perched majestically on the limestone cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean, Valletta beckons with its timeless charm and centuries-old history. Home to the Knights of St. John, its streets whisper tales of valiant knights and grand sieges. The Mediterranean climate blesses visitors with warm summers and mild winters, creating an inviting atmosphere year-round. Unlike typical tourist traps, Valletta offers an authentic glimpse into Malta's soul, where locals mingle with visitors in bustling markets and quaint cafes. As the smallest capital in the EU, Valletta boasts one of the highest concentrations of historic sites, including St. John's Co-Cathedral, adorned with Caravaggio's masterpieces.

Days 1-3

Day 4

Day 5

Day 6

Day 7

At sea

Day 8

Katakolon

Day 9

Corfu

Day 10

Kotor

Day 11

Dubrovnik

Day 12

Korčula

Day 13

Bari

Day 14

At sea

Day 15

Siracuse, Sicily

Days 16-17

Valletta

154

Passengers

Crew

2025

Launched

8500t

Tonnage

104m

Length

18m

Width

12kts

Speed

Decks

USD

Currency

Douglas Mawson

Adventure has a new name. Setting sail in 2025, our new state-of-the-art ship, the Douglas Mawson, is the last in a line of purpose-built vessels that have redefined small ship expedition cruising.