2709 Cruise Excursions

Download/View the cruise excursion brochure HERE.

Download/View the cruise excursion price list HERE.

Cruise Excursion Information

Below are the available excursion options for the cruise portion of your Life of Paul Tour. These excursions are operated and led by Celestyal Cruises. Discipleship Travel will collect your excursion payments and handle your registration with the cruise line.

Important Notices

1. Kusadasi and Patmos Excursions Included
   Although the cruise will call at Kusadasi and Patmos, excursions at these ports have already been selected and are included as part of your tour package.
2. Participation is Optional
   All additional cruise excursions are completely optional.
3. Missed Onboard Activities
   Any onboard meals, entertainment, or activities missed while participating in an excursion are non-refundable.
4. Excursion Changes or Cancellations
   Excursions may be canceled by Celestyal Cruises due to insufficient participation or other operational reasons. If an excursion is canceled, any payment received for that excursion will be refunded. Please note that refund processing may take some time. In certain cases, the cruise line may offer an alternative excursion.
5. Limited Availability
   Some excursions have limited capacity and may sell out before the sailing date.
6. One Excursion Per Port
   Travelers may select only one (1) excursion per port.

How to Register

After reviewing the excursion options, please send an email with your selections. For each excursion, include:

• The excursion code and name (for example, MYK-04 Mykonian Dinner)
• The full names of all participants you are registering and paying for

Special Instructions

If you would like to participate in an excursion with friends or another couple from the group, but you are not paying for their excursion, please have them submit their own registration request. This will help ensure that all participants are properly registered and accounted for.

Celestyal Cruises has provided the excursion descriptions and details that follow. Any spelling or other discrepancies are theirs.

MYKANOS EXCURSIONS

MYK-04 Mykonian Dinner – Adult $102, Child $80

This popular excursion on foot takes us up close to the wonders of Mykonos Town or Chora and the sights, sounds, tastes and flavours that make it one of the world’s best loved destinations. We begin with a stroll along the narrow cobbled streets, past the boutiques, whitewashed houses and elegant cafes until we come to Kastro, home of the famously beautiful Paraportiani Church, a must for every visitor. We may visit the Folklore Museum or Aegean Maritime Museum. The Folklore Museum is housed in an old two storey captain’s house. The museum’s exhibits include traditional costumes, furniture and household items typically found on Mykonos in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as well as jewellery and textiles. The Maritime Museum used to be the home of the legendary Master of the merchant ship “Enosis”, Nikolaos Sourmelis. Its exhibits include models of ships from the pre- Minoan period to this day, historical shipping documents, rare engravings and maps, ancient artefacts, navigational instruments, equipment and tools.

Our tour continues with a walk to Alefkhandra and the ubiquitous windmills, the symbol of Mykonos, recognised the world over. This part of the town is known as Little Venice. The houses belonging to wealthy merchants and sea captains were built on the water in the 18th century and their wooden balconies are a little reminder of the homes along the canals of Venice.

We conclude our trip at a local taverna, where we enjoy traditional food and drink, reflect on what we have seen, chat and savour the tastes, aromas and essence of genuine Greek spirit.

Duration: Half-Day

MYK-06 Mykonian Countryside with Cora and Venice – Adult $98, Child $78

We set off by coach from Mykonos Town, also known as Chora.

We visit the lovely colourful beach of Kalafatis.

On our return trip to Chora we call at the traditional village of Ano Mera and the monastery of Panagia Tourliani, founded in 1542.

It houses a wonderful collection of icons and has a beautiful bell tower and marble fountain, well worth seeing.

The delightful village square of Ano Mera is the perfect spot for a short break and maybe a coffee. You’ll be relaxing in one of the island’s oldest communities.

Back in Mykonos Town we stop at the Paraportiani church (which literally means Our Lady of the Side Gate and is actually made up of five churches) and the Folklore Museum. Here you can see many exhibits including traditional costumes, furniture and personal items typical of Mykonos life in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the island of more than 100 years ago

We finish at Little Venice, the neighbourhood of Alefkhandra to admire those famous windmills, a sight you can surely never tire of.

Duration: Half-Day

Tour may not be available at certain times of the year.

 The two following Mykanos excursions are sold On Board ONLY. Do Not Register with us.

MYK-05 Kalafatis Beach Transfer (On Board ONLY)

This vast sandy beach is the ideal spot to try your hand at watersports, splash about or simply relax with a good book and the sea breeze. You can hire a sun lounger and umbrella to unwind for hours with glittering blue Aegean in view.

Located on the quieter eastern side of the island, Kalafatis Beach generally attracts fewer people than other Mykonos beaches. Yet the good offshore breeze means that windsurfing and other water sports won’t disappoint.

With a restaurant conveniently situated at either end of the beach, you can grab an authentic bite of local cuisine whenever the mood calls.

For an even more tranquil visit, you can wander across to the smaller and just as beautiful Agia Anna beach – the perfect place for a swim in the sun.

Cost of the facilities at the beach is not included in the price of the excursion.

Duration: Half-Day

MYK-08 Paradise Beach Transfer (Sold On Board ONLY)

Paradise Beach is a Mykonos icon. Since its hedonistic days in the 60s when its first thrill seekers sought freedom on the sands, it has become the location for many a club, beach bar and party.

With its wide stretch of sand, turquoise waters and close proximity to Mykonos town, Paradise Beach is a hotspot with a buzzing vibe to match.

Beach bars and restaurants border the sands, so there is always a tune to be heard and a delicious meal to be enjoyed. For a taste of the nightlife during the day, head to the western end of the beach for a fruity cocktail in one of the bars.

Dotted with sun loungers and umbrellas, this is the perfect place to soak up the vibrant atmosphere that Mykonos is known for the world over.

Cost of the facilities at the beach is not included in the price of the excursion.

Duration: Half-Day

HERAKLION EXCURSIONS

HER-02 Minoan Palace of Knossos – Adult $114, Child $89

The ancient city of Knossos, near Crete’s capital Heraklion, was the place that ‘gave birth’ to the very first civilisation of Europe, the Minoans.

So we can say with some certainty it is Europe’s oldest city.

Our excursion will open up the world of the Minoans as we visit one of the continent’s most important archaeological treasures.

The first excavations were undertaken in the 1870s by Minos Kalokairinos, a Cretan himself. A few decades later in the early 1900s, more work by Sir Arthur Evans from Britain brought to the world’s attention the full impressive scale of the Palace of Knossos, according to legend the residence of wise King Minos.

We will be able to explore the large Central Court, the wonderful Throne Room, the imposing Grand Staircase and see the fresco of the ‘Prince of the Lilies.’

As you stroll through the palace apartments and view the archaeological finds, we think you will be just a little in awe of the rich cultural heritage of the Minoan civilisation.

You will undoubtedly hear the Cretan legend of the Minotaur, half man, half bull who lived in the Labyrinth and was slain by Theseus. But that’s another story.

Exploring from room to room we will relive time in the Hall of the Royal Guard and the King’s Chamber, hearing about the extraordinary rule of King Minos.

Duration: Half-Day

HER-04 Cretan Countryside and Lifestyle – Adult $114, Child $89

Leaving the Venetian walls of Heraklion behind us, we drive deep into the beautiful countryside of Greece’s largest island and the birthplace of Zeus according to mythology. We pass through Episkopi and Sgourokefali before arriving at the traditional village of Stironas. Here you take a deep breath, enjoy the fresh mountain air and take in the majestic view at 550 metres above sea level.

Stironas is made up of traditional stone buildings arranged amphitheatrically looking towards the mountains. You will see how the Cretans lived centuries ago. We also visit a botanical parterre, home to various aromatic and medicinal herbs from the mountains of Crete.

There will be the opportunity for a little wine tasting – wine has been in Crete since the Minoans, so the locals have a bit of experience in the matter. We visit a raki distiller and sample the product straight from the barrels in his cellar. After finding out more about production and bottling there will be a Cretan meze to enjoy with pure local olive oil and traditional dancers performing for their guests. You will have imbibed the true flavour of countryside life for a few hours.

We head back to historic Heraklion which was founded in 824 and learn about some of its key historic figures and the jewels in the crown of its wonderful structures including the ‘Koules’ fortress, Venetian Loggia, Basilica of St Mark, medieval monastery of St Catherine and the Cathedral of Agios Minas.

Duration: Half-Day

HER-07 Venetian Heraklion and Archaeological Museum  – Adult $106, Child $89

Crete is Greece’s largest island and the birthplace of Zeus according to mythology.

Our tour enables us to find out more of the important period of Venetian rule and explore the jewels in the crown of the capital Heraklion’s wonderful structures including the ‘Koules’ fortress, Venetian Loggia, Basilica of St Mark, medieval monastery of St Catherine and the Cathedral of Agios Minas.

The Venetian Loggia is an especially eye- catching and beautiful structure that still functions as the Town Hall of Heraklion. It was built in 1620 and was a place for Venetian nobleman to gather. The fortifications of Heraklion surround the old city. They were first constructed in the Middle Ages but they were completely rebuilt by the Republic of Venice and resisted the Ottoman Turkish forces for 22 years in the 1600s. They are among the best preserved city walls in the Mediterranean.

The ancient city of Knossos, near the capital Heraklion, was the place that ‘gave birth’ to the very first civilisation of Europe, the Minoans. So we can probably say it’s Europe oldest city. We can really feel the sense of history and understand some of the myths and legends of Ancient Greece here in Heraklion.

We also learn about some of Crete’s leading figures, including Nobel Prize winning poet Odysseas Elytis, the painter El Greco and the writer Nikos Kazantzakis.

We end at the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion to find out more of the background to the history and culture of Crete.

Duration: Half-Day

HER-14 Journey Through Ancient Gortyna  – Adult $115, Child $80

Take a guided journey through Crete’s ancient past, where crumbling ruins and sacred churches tell stories of power, faith and civilization.

Your adventure starts at Gortyna – or Gortyn – once the Roman capital of Crete and one of the island’s oldest Christian centers. Visit the early Christian Church of St Titus, nestled among olive trees and scattered ruins. Dedicated

to the island’s first bishop and disciple of St Paul, the remains of this 6th Century basilica reflect Crete’s evolution from pagan temples to Christian faith.

Not far from the church lies the Gortyn Law Code – an extraordinary wall of stone inscriptions dating back to the 5th Century BC – offering a rare glimpse into everyday life in classical Crete.

From here you’ll travel to Crete’s capital, Heraklion, and the awe-inspiring Cathedral of St. Minas, one of Greece’s largest Orthodox churches. Step inside to admire its soaring domes, sacred icons and peaceful grandeur before concluding your spiritual trail at another Church of St. Titus in the heart of the city. Housing the relics of the saint himself, this is a must visit for all history lovers, and a fitting end to this rich cultural experience.

Duration: Half-Day

The following Heraklion excursion is sold On Board ONLY. Do Not Register with us.

HER-10 Transfer to Ammoudara Beach  – (Sold On Board ONLY)

Located 5km west of Heraklion, Ammoudara Beach is a popular spot that caters for all types of travellers, from solo adventurers to couples and families. Sunbathe, swim or take a trip on a jet ski – you can do it all here.

With its long stretch of golden sand, Ammoudara Beach has different areas to
suit every visitor. There are a few great local eateries, sun loungers and water centres, and with calm shallow waters, it’s an ideal spot to take the kids. To find solitude and really take in the views, simply wander towards Heraklion and you’ll find a quieter stretch.

Cost of the facilities at the beach is not included in the price of the excursion.

Duration: Half-Day

SANTORINI EXCURSIONS

SAN-01 Spectacular Oia Village – Adult $103, Child $78

If you are a first time visitor to Santorini she will take your breath away.

And even if you are a regular visitor, with her soaring landscapes and whitewashed houses she will still do that every time. She is regularly described as one of the most beautiful places on the planet. There are plenty of magic moments on our excursion.

One of the greatest spectacles is Oia village perched on the rim of the Caldera, the remains of a volcanic eruption.

Santorini is a ring of rock around the sea. Think of it as the rim of an old volcano.

First we head to Megalochori, one of the most authentic and unspoiled villages on the island, retaining its distinctive architecture, character and charm.

On our journey we will have had the lace-like caldera to our west, the little islands of Thirasia, Palea and Nea Kameni and an incredible, unsurpassable panoramic view.

There is plenty of time in Oia to explore, stroll the marble-paved alleys, visit the adorable shops and capture the moments on camera.

Admire the traditional buildings carved into the rocks and the unusual captain’s manors, the settlement of Ammoudi at the foot of the caldera.

Duration: Half-Day

SAN-02 Cruise to Santorini’s Islands and Volcanoes – Adult $103, Child $78

This trip is a must for those who want to acquaint themselves just a little better with the islands fringing the caldera, the volcanic remnants.

A small boat will take us first to Nea Kameni. Its geology resembles a lunar landscape. We walk up the verge of the crater, the heart of the volcano and its an experience that should fill you with awe. The beaches of Nea Kameni are embraced by thermal springs.

Our next stop on this special excursion is Palea Kameni. If you’re feeling adventurous, you may swim from your boat to its therapeutic warm waters.

The sea temperature here is five degrees higher than elsewhere and the green-yellow water contains sulphur.

After our trip to the volcano we have a change of pace as we visit the energetic Fira, the island’s main town, for a stroll around, a quiet drink or simply the chance to soak up the atmosphere. We descend by funicular (ticket included in the excursion) to the Old Port for the transfer back to the ship.

Tour may not be available at certain times of the year.

Duration: Half-Day

SAN-08 Akrotiri Village Excavation – Adult $120, Child $90

Modern day Santorini has been shaped quite literally by one event in ancient history.

In 1650 BC the huge volcano Thira erupted, sinking the centre of the island then known as Strongyle and leaving behind an incredible caldera.

And it is on that small, circular, remnant that Santorini now sits, about 200 miles from the Greek mainland.

The municipality includes the inhabited islands of Santorini and Therasia and the uninhabited ones of Nea Kameni, Palea Kameni, Aspronisi and Christiana.

The soaring landscapes that give Santorini
its unique look were formed by the eruption and you will almost certainly gaze in awe as you journey on a tender boat to the port of Athinios to head for Santorini’s most important archaeological site, the village of Akrotiri. On the way we make a brief stop at the ruins of
the island’s famous windmill and take in the wonderful view.

The settlement of Akrotiri was destroyed in the eruption and buried in volcanic ash which preserved many of its buildings, structures and fine frescoes. The site has been excavated since the 1960s.

You will find a place held in time and it is an incredible experience.

It has been suggested Akrotiri could have been the inspiration for Plato’s story of Atlantis, but there are numerous other places vying for that honour.

After Akrotiri we head for the capital Fira, the island’s largest town, to visit the Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral, also known as the Church of Ypapantis. It is famed for its elegance and beautiful frescos painted by Santorini artist Christoforus Assimis.

We have time to linger in Fira for shopping, a stroll or a relaxing coffee before making our way back to the tender boats by way of the teleferik, the Santorini Cable Car. It’s an impressive descent of more than 200 metres to the blue waters of the caldera at the harbour side.

Tour may not be available at certain times of the year.

Duration: Half-Day

SAN-16 Music, Myths, and History – Adult $162 (limited availability for ages 9-14)

Pyrgos is our destination, the highest village on Santorini and one of the most beautiful parts of the island. An exquisite picture-book location which looks and feels as though it belongs in another era, a Greece of yesteryear.

It’s charming, enchanting and absorbing and here you can live in the moment with the realisation there you are experiencing something very special.

Here your soul can really rejoice.

The pace of life is peaceful, calm and relaxed, a world away from the what we might know as normal life.

The main square with its tall pine trees and delightful coffee shops is the focal and the perfect place to take in the atmosphere.

Capture the moment and the feelings and hold on to them on our guided walking tour exploring the traditional Cyladic architecture that gives Santorini island its unique look.

Wander through the remains of a Venetian fortress and see the historical 18th century monastery of Profitis Ilias, which is closed to the public but remains home to one solitary monk.

Here are the most breathtaking views over the island.

We travel to Megalochori, a remarkably preserved village of Cycladic and neoclassical architecture. Stroll through rustic streets and marvel at homes dug into the volcanic rock.

Then we head to the Symposion Music and Mythology Cultural Centre for a musical presentation which creates an interactive journey using mythological narration and fifteen hand-crafted wind and string instruments.

The tour explores the history and architecture of the former winery and we will enjoy a cup of honey wine.

Back at Fira Town there is free time to shop and explore on your own.

The cable car ticket is included.

gives Santorini island its unique look.

Duration: Half-Day

The following Santorini excursion is sold On Board ONLY. Do Not Register with us.

SAN-13 Transfer to Perissa Beach – (Sold On Board ONLY)

Dipping your toes into the black lava sand at Perissa Beach is a unique way to experience Santorini’s volcanic geology. And getting closer to nature on Perissa Beach is easy!

Simply paddle in the deep blue and clear waters and gaze at the gigantic Mesa Vouno mountain that seems to climb from the sea. You can hire a sun lounger to bask in the sun or find a shady spot at one of the many cafes and bars that border the sandy stretch.

If you’re looking for your next thrill, hire watersports equipment and paddle out into the deep blue, or explore the shallows as you swim in the clean waters that have earned Blue Flag awards over the years.

Cost of the facilities at the beach is not included in the price of the excursion.

Duration: Half-Day