Cruising with Susan: Five reasons to set sail on your own wish-list Aegean cruise
Follow in the footsteps of Scottish comedian, Susan Calman, and discover the wonders of the Greek coast aboard the award-winning Celestyal Discovery.
Presenter Susan Calman recently returned to screens for the fourth season of her ITV travel documentary, Cruising with Susan, and kicked off the new series with a Celestyal cruise across the azure Aegean Sea. With such a wide range of wish-list experience to be enjoyed, from breath-taking landmarks to dramatic island vistas, it’s no surprise that Greece’s coastal treasures number amongst Europe’s most popular holiday hotspots. Better yet, it’s never been easier to experience it all with our best-selling Ancient Greece Uncovered tour.
Having watched the first episode of Susan’s new high-seas adventure, our team have been focused on all things Aegean and are excited to introduce our latest Tour and Cruise holiday, Ancient Greece Uncovered with Aegean Cruise. With that in mind, they’ve been busy thinking about all the highlights of an island-hopping escape and here are their five reasons to follow in Susan’s footsteps and choose an Aegean cruise for your next wish-list getaway.
1. The natural beauty
While many Mediterranean nations boast picturesque views, few are quite as impressive as Greece’s glittering Aegean Sea. From white-washed Santorini, with its dramatic volcanic stretches, and the windmill-dotted hills of Mykonos to Rhodes’ enchanting Valley of Butterflies, the Aegean Islands untamed natural stretches promise the perfect backdrop to an unmissable wish-list sailing. The animal-enthusiasts onboard can also catch a glimpse or two of the Aegean’s elusive local wildlife, from sperm whales and sea turtles to skinks, salamanders and Cretan shrews.
2. The history
Similarly to the Greek mainland, the ancient landmarks of antiquity are on full display across the Aegean’s charming island towns. Explore Rhodes, the former home of the Colossus, take in the ancient ruins of Ephesus in Turkish Kuşadasi and walk in the footsteps of legendary King Minos in Heraklion’s Palace of Knossos. Amongst the Aegean’s other highlights are the Acropolis of Lindos, the remains of the 4th-century Temple of Athena, and Patmos’ popular pilgrimage spots.
3. The flavours
Exploring the Aegean is hungry work, but rest assured you’ll well-placed to savour the local specialities of each island, from Santorini’s famous wines to the fresh local seafood that’s enjoyed across the bustling harbour towns. Get a taste for each island’s regional delicacies with lunch ashore at local taverna or enjoy the simple pleasures with a picnic on one of the pristine Aegean beaches. What’s more, with full board accommodation on the award-winning Celestyal Discovery, you’ll have a rich variety of cuisines to whet your appetite.
4. The cultural immersion
No Aegean escape would be complete without an enlightening introduction to the diverse communities and welcoming towns that dot each island. Embrace the unique charm of each port of call with ample opportunities to engage with the local people who call them home. Explore Turkish Kuşadasi and get a taste for its vibrant spice markets with a wander around the colourful Grand Bazaar, take in Rhodes’ maritime heritage in the seafront Nea Agora Bazaar, and unwind amongst Patmos’ laid-back villages.
5. The relaxation
Of course, your cruise won’t just be about the shore excursions, and you’ll have plenty of time amongst Celestyal Discovery’s first-class amenities. Refresh yourself with a treatment or two in the ship’s well-appointed spa, sweat your worries away in the onboard saunas or cool off with a dip in the swimming pool. In the evenings, settle in for some live entertainment in Celestyal Discovery’s Amphitheatro Lounge or perhaps pick up some new moves with a complimentary dance class.
Set sail on your next wish-list adventure with Newmarket Holidays
Whether you’re crazy about Greek culture, or just want to cram in a few more moments of relaxation after a week’s sightseeing, there’s plenty to love about the idyllic Aegean Sea. If you’re ready to chart a course for your next adventure, or simply want to chat about the options on offer, give one of our friendly holiday planners a call today. For further information on our Aegean cruise itinerary, visit the dedicated tour page or browse our full range of island-hopping escapes with our Tour and Cruise Collection.
