- Discover Delos
Explore the vast archaeological site with its Doric temples, amphitheatre and intricate mosaics.
- Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia
Admire the incredible preserved Byzantine mosaics which adorn the interior.
- The ancient Acropolis in Athens
Take the chance to see one the most iconic sights in Greece.
- Views over the Blue Mosque
Istanbul’s most photogenic building comprises six minarets and cascading domes decorated with tiles in hues of blue.

Saga Cruises
Mediterranean Ancient Wonders
Spirit of Discovery departing Southampton
from £5,985 per person2 passengers 24 nights 28th October 2021 Including optional travel insurance or a price reduction of £75 if not required
-
All Inclusive
Uncover the ancient sites of Greece and Turkey
A cruise on the Bosphorus is a fantastic way to see the varied skyline of Istanbul from a different perspective.
The Mediterranean Sea has played an important role throughout history, enabling the exchange of culture and trade between the continents. This voyage of discovery includes six sightseeing tours, and visits some of the region’s most fascinating archaeological sites and monuments. Greece has one of the richest historical legacies in the world, as well as an enviable climate, laid-back culture, delicious cuisine and beautiful natural scenery. During your visit you can look forward to exploring the impressive relics of Delos, the ancient ruins of Knossos Palace and the mighty Acropolis of Athens with its famous Parthenon.
While in Turkey, a visit to Canakkale gives you the chance to go in search of the legendary city of Troy, brought to life through stories of love, war and heroism in Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey. You’ll also visit Istanbul, the country’s melting pot of civilisation, where Byzantine, Roman and Ottoman Empires have left an indelible mark. This remarkable city has a wealth of culture and traditions, as well as a variety of architecture that features a blend of ancient and modern. Perhaps see more of Istanbul’s treasures during a visit to Hagia Sophia or, for a different perspective of the city, take to the water for a cruise on the Bosphorus.
Included sightseeing tours
- Málaga, Spain
- Valletta, Malta
- Istanbul, Turkey
- Athens (for Piraeus), Greece
- Cagliari, Sardinia
- Almeria, Spain
Overnight stays
- Piraeus, Greece
View Full Itinerary
Mediterranean Ancient Wonders
28/10/2021 Southampton
Southampton
Embark Spirit of Discovery.
Depart 1800.

29/10/2021 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
30/10/2021 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
31/10/2021 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
01/11/2021 Málaga, Spain
Málaga, Spain
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Set on the Costa del Sol, Málaga is known for its beautiful beaches and choice of restaurants. Look forward to an included scenic tour to introduce this sophisticated, and culturally dynamic city. Within the old town you’ll find the 18th-century Cathedral, the impressive Moorish fortress-palace of the Alcazaba, and the magnificent Castillo de Gibralfaro overlooking the port.
For art lovers, Málaga’s highlight must be the Picasso Museum with its fine collection of works by the artist who was born here in 1881. Alternatively, join an guided tour of the Málaga Automobile Museum, home to an incredible collection of classic cars.

02/11/2021 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
03/11/2021 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
04/11/2021 Valletta, Malta
Valletta, Malta
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
The island of Malta is set in the heart of the Mediterranean between Sicily and North Africa, and has a fascinating history stretching back millennia. The approach to the capital is truly magical, with the morning sun illuminating the limestone fortifications and skyline of domes and steeples. Valletta is a veritable open-air museum showcasing the contributions to the great architecture and art collections of the city made by the Knights of St John nearly five centuries ago – it’s hardly surprising the city has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. After an included introductory tour, set off on foot to explore independently. You won’t want to miss St John’s Co-Cathedral, or the Grand Master’s Palace with its frescoes of the Great Siege by the Ottomans.

05/11/2021 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
06/11/2021 Heraklion, Crete, Greece
Heraklion, Crete, Greece
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Enjoy time in the city of Heraklion, the capital of the Greek island of Crete, the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean. Lying on Crete’s north coast, Heraklion is surrounded by impressive walls built by the Venetians, one of the best preserved monuments in the Mediterranean basin. Explore easily on foot, perhaps taking in the old town, 17th-century Town Hall and Venetian Morosini Fountain. The Heraklion Archaeological Museum houses many important artefacts recovered from the Palace of Knossos, a nearby ancient archaeological site which you could also choose to experience on a guided tour. Alternatively, you could visit a selection of traditional Cretan villages for a taste of local life.

07/11/2021 Mykonos, Greece
Mykonos, Greece
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Arrive at the famously pretty island of Mykonos, one of the islands of the Cyclades group in the Aegean Sea. Mykonos is characterised by brilliant blue-domed roofs on whitewashed churches, and windmills that slowly spin in the breeze. According to Greek mythology, the island was formed from the petrified bodies of giants defeated by Hercules one of his twelve labours. Having been an important supply island to nearby Delos since ancient times, it wasn’t until the 1960s and 70s that Mykonos gained popularity as a holiday destination, and today the island attracts jet-setters from around the world. Take a ferry over to Delos island to explore the vast archaeological site with its Doric temples, amphitheatre and intricate mosaics.

08/11/2021 Canakkale, Turkey
Canakkale, Turkey
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
For centuries, the area surrounding the Dardanelles has been the crossing point for invading armies, with Alexander the Great making his crossing here in 334BC on his way to conquer Persia. Situated in this region rich in ancient and modern history is the Turkish seaport of Çanakkale, the gateway to the ancient ruins of Troy. It was in 1865 that Frank Calvert, an explorer and Heinrich Schliemann, a pioneer archaeologist, began digging through a hill outside the city and discovered the remains of Troy. Perhaps take the chance to visit the legendary city. If you decide to spend the day in Çanakkale, take a stroll along the waterfront and look out for a replica of the iconic Trojan horse, used in the 2004 movie starring Brad Pitt.

09/11/2021 Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul, Turkey
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
East and west collide in this transcontinental city which straddles the Bosphorus Strait, and an included tour offers the perfect introduction to this vibrant metropolis. Originally named Constantinople by the Romans, a city has stood here for almost three millennia, ruled by various empires from the Greeks to the Ottomans, and as a result, Istanbul simply oozes history. Contrast two of its greatest mosques, the extraordinary Blue Mosque, so called for its blue mosaic tilework, with the ancient St Sophia – an exquisite example of Byzantine architecture that dates back to the 6th century. Perhaps take a leisurely cruise along the Bosphorus to admire the changing cityscape, or tour the historic Topkapi Palace complex which was the home of the Ottoman sultans for nearly four centuries.

10/11/2021 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
11/11/2021 Piraeus (for Athens), Greece
Piraeus (for Athens), Greece
Arrive 0800 on November 11. Depart 1700 on November 12.
Ancient treasures hide around every corner in the Greek capital, most famous of all being the Acropolis, perched high above the city. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of the great architectural complexes of the ancient Greek world, comprises the Parthenon, Propylaia, Erechtheion and the temple of Athena Nike. Join an included scenic tour for an introduction to this ancient city, and with an overnight stay in port, you’ll have plenty of free time to explore the city’s attractions independently. Perhaps head to the ancient Agora or the National Archaeological Museum, and don’t miss the atmospheric medieval quarter and the upmarket Kolonaki district with its fancy restaurants and boutiques.

13/11/2021 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
14/11/2021 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
15/11/2021 Cagliari, Sardinia
Cagliari, Sardinia
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Have your camera ready as you sail towards the Sardinian coast, as Cagliari presents a perfect panorama as you approach by sea. Enjoy an included scenic tour, then set out to explore more – the island's capital has a wealth to see and do. Why not delve into its past in the National Archaeological Museum, seek out the beautiful sandy Poetto beach, or stroll around the maze of narrow streets in the historic Marina district. There'll be the chance to explore nearby Nora, a Roman city partially submerged by the sea, or you can experience traditional Sardinian food, drink and music during lunch at a rural commune in the countryside.

16/11/2021 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
17/11/2021 Almeria, Spain
Almeria, Spain
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Boasting more sunshine hours than anywhere else in Spain, Almeria is an intriguing blend of wild beaches, deserts and Moorish whitewashed houses. In fact, it's famous as a film location for the Spaghetti Westerns of the 1960s, including a few Clint Eastwood classics. The wealth of farming communities in the surrounding area mean that local produce is deliciously fresh too.
The city of Almeria is overlooked by the Islamic fortress, Alcazaba, and many of its buildings exhibit African influences which you can admire on your included tour. Discover more of the surrounding countryside on a tour of the Cabo de Gata and Nijar Natural Park, an area noted for its drought-adapted flora and incredible jagged cliffs tumbling into the azure sea below.

18/11/2021 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
19/11/2021 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
20/11/2021 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
21/11/2021 Southampton
Southampton
Arrive 0800.
Disembark Spirit of Discovery after breakfast.
Please note: Some of the highlights detailed may only be seen on optional excursions, at an additional cost, or by exploring independently.

-
1
Southampton
-
2
At Sea
-
3
At Sea
-
4
At Sea
-
5
Málaga, Spain
-
6
At Sea
-
7
At Sea
-
8
Valletta, Malta
-
9
At Sea
-
10
Heraklion, Crete, Greece
-
11
Mykonos, Greece
-
12
Canakkale, Turkey
-
13
Istanbul, Turkey
-
14
At Sea
-
15
Piraeus (for Athens), Greece
-
17
At Sea
-
18
At Sea
-
19
Cagliari, Sardinia
-
20
At Sea
-
21
Almeria, Spain
-
22
At Sea
-
23
At Sea
-
24
At Sea
-
25
Southampton
-
28th October
Southampton
1Southampton
Embark Spirit of Discovery.
Depart 1800.
-
29th October
At Sea
-
30th October
At Sea
-
31st October
At Sea
-
1st November
Málaga, Spain
5Málaga, Spain
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Set on the Costa del Sol, Málaga is known for its beautiful beaches and choice of restaurants. Look forward to an included scenic tour to introduce this sophisticated, and culturally dynamic city. Within the old town you’ll find the 18th-century Cathedral, the impressive Moorish fortress-palace of the Alcazaba, and the magnificent Castillo de Gibralfaro overlooking the port.
For art lovers, Málaga’s highlight must be the Picasso Museum with its fine collection of works by the artist who was born here in 1881. Alternatively, join an guided tour of the Málaga Automobile Museum, home to an incredible collection of classic cars.
-
2nd November
At Sea
-
3rd November
At Sea
-
4th November
Valletta, Malta
8Valletta, Malta
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
The island of Malta is set in the heart of the Mediterranean between Sicily and North Africa, and has a fascinating history stretching back millennia. The approach to the capital is truly magical, with the morning sun illuminating the limestone fortifications and skyline of domes and steeples. Valletta is a veritable open-air museum showcasing the contributions to the great architecture and art collections of the city made by the Knights of St John nearly five centuries ago – it’s hardly surprising the city has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. After an included introductory tour, set off on foot to explore independently. You won’t want to miss St John’s Co-Cathedral, or the Grand Master’s Palace with its frescoes of the Great Siege by the Ottomans.
-
5th November
At Sea
-
6th November
Heraklion, Crete, Greece
10Heraklion, Crete, Greece
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Enjoy time in the city of Heraklion, the capital of the Greek island of Crete, the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean. Lying on Crete’s north coast, Heraklion is surrounded by impressive walls built by the Venetians, one of the best preserved monuments in the Mediterranean basin. Explore easily on foot, perhaps taking in the old town, 17th-century Town Hall and Venetian Morosini Fountain. The Heraklion Archaeological Museum houses many important artefacts recovered from the Palace of Knossos, a nearby ancient archaeological site which you could also choose to experience on a guided tour. Alternatively, you could visit a selection of traditional Cretan villages for a taste of local life.
-
7th November
Mykonos, Greece
11Mykonos, Greece
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Arrive at the famously pretty island of Mykonos, one of the islands of the Cyclades group in the Aegean Sea. Mykonos is characterised by brilliant blue-domed roofs on whitewashed churches, and windmills that slowly spin in the breeze. According to Greek mythology, the island was formed from the petrified bodies of giants defeated by Hercules one of his twelve labours. Having been an important supply island to nearby Delos since ancient times, it wasn’t until the 1960s and 70s that Mykonos gained popularity as a holiday destination, and today the island attracts jet-setters from around the world. Take a ferry over to Delos island to explore the vast archaeological site with its Doric temples, amphitheatre and intricate mosaics.
-
8th November
Canakkale, Turkey
12Canakkale, Turkey
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
For centuries, the area surrounding the Dardanelles has been the crossing point for invading armies, with Alexander the Great making his crossing here in 334BC on his way to conquer Persia. Situated in this region rich in ancient and modern history is the Turkish seaport of Çanakkale, the gateway to the ancient ruins of Troy. It was in 1865 that Frank Calvert, an explorer and Heinrich Schliemann, a pioneer archaeologist, began digging through a hill outside the city and discovered the remains of Troy. Perhaps take the chance to visit the legendary city. If you decide to spend the day in Çanakkale, take a stroll along the waterfront and look out for a replica of the iconic Trojan horse, used in the 2004 movie starring Brad Pitt.
-
9th November
Istanbul, Turkey
13Istanbul, Turkey
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
East and west collide in this transcontinental city which straddles the Bosphorus Strait, and an included tour offers the perfect introduction to this vibrant metropolis. Originally named Constantinople by the Romans, a city has stood here for almost three millennia, ruled by various empires from the Greeks to the Ottomans, and as a result, Istanbul simply oozes history. Contrast two of its greatest mosques, the extraordinary Blue Mosque, so called for its blue mosaic tilework, with the ancient St Sophia – an exquisite example of Byzantine architecture that dates back to the 6th century. Perhaps take a leisurely cruise along the Bosphorus to admire the changing cityscape, or tour the historic Topkapi Palace complex which was the home of the Ottoman sultans for nearly four centuries.
-
10th November
At Sea
-
11th November
Piraeus (for Athens), Greece
15Piraeus (for Athens), Greece
Arrive 0800 on November 11. Depart 1700 on November 12.
Ancient treasures hide around every corner in the Greek capital, most famous of all being the Acropolis, perched high above the city. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of the great architectural complexes of the ancient Greek world, comprises the Parthenon, Propylaia, Erechtheion and the temple of Athena Nike. Join an included scenic tour for an introduction to this ancient city, and with an overnight stay in port, you’ll have plenty of free time to explore the city’s attractions independently. Perhaps head to the ancient Agora or the National Archaeological Museum, and don’t miss the atmospheric medieval quarter and the upmarket Kolonaki district with its fancy restaurants and boutiques.
-
13th November
At Sea
-
14th November
At Sea
-
15th November
Cagliari, Sardinia
19Cagliari, Sardinia
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Have your camera ready as you sail towards the Sardinian coast, as Cagliari presents a perfect panorama as you approach by sea. Enjoy an included scenic tour, then set out to explore more – the island's capital has a wealth to see and do. Why not delve into its past in the National Archaeological Museum, seek out the beautiful sandy Poetto beach, or stroll around the maze of narrow streets in the historic Marina district. There'll be the chance to explore nearby Nora, a Roman city partially submerged by the sea, or you can experience traditional Sardinian food, drink and music during lunch at a rural commune in the countryside.
-
16th November
At Sea
-
17th November
Almeria, Spain
21Almeria, Spain
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Boasting more sunshine hours than anywhere else in Spain, Almeria is an intriguing blend of wild beaches, deserts and Moorish whitewashed houses. In fact, it's famous as a film location for the Spaghetti Westerns of the 1960s, including a few Clint Eastwood classics. The wealth of farming communities in the surrounding area mean that local produce is deliciously fresh too.
The city of Almeria is overlooked by the Islamic fortress, Alcazaba, and many of its buildings exhibit African influences which you can admire on your included tour. Discover more of the surrounding countryside on a tour of the Cabo de Gata and Nijar Natural Park, an area noted for its drought-adapted flora and incredible jagged cliffs tumbling into the azure sea below.
-
18th November
At Sea
-
19th November
At Sea
-
20th November
At Sea
-
21st November
Southampton
25Southampton
Arrive 0800.
Disembark Spirit of Discovery after breakfast.
Please note: Some of the highlights detailed may only be seen on optional excursions, at an additional cost, or by exploring independently.
Itinerary map for Mediterranean Ancient Wonders
Spirit of Discovery
Inspired by the world's finest boutique hotels

Learn more about Spirit of Discovery

Chauffeur service up to 250 miles
Chauffeur service up to 250 miles
This service is a private chauffeur for distances up to 75 miles each way, and a shared chauffeur service from 76-250 miles each way.
Don't want to chauffeur? No problem. We'll also be happy to arrange complimentary car parking near the port, or can provide included rail/coach tickets, or even free flights from your local airport, subject to availability.

Travel insurance
Travel insurance
Optional comprehensive travel insurance, underwritten by Great Lakes Insurance SE, UK Branch, and additional cancellation rights. If you have your own insurance, we will offer you the holiday at a lower price.

All meals
All meals
All meals and snacks on board.

Afternoon Tea
Afternoon Tea
Daily afternoon tea.

A Choice of wines
A Choice of wines
A choice of wines at lunch and dinner.

All Inclusive
All Inclusive
Includes selected wines at lunch and dinner, Saga house-branded spirits, cocktails containing house-branded spirits, draught beer and lager, non-alcoholic cocktails, all mixers and soft drinks.

Gratuities
Gratuities
All on-board 'tips' and bar service charges.

Entertainment and Activities
Entertainment and Activities
A full programme of live music, entertainment and talks.

Gym, sauna & exercise classes
Gym, sauna & exercise classes
Gym, sauna and exercise classes.

24-hour room service
24-hour room service
24-hour room service is available at no extra charge.

Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi

Welcome cocktail party
Welcome cocktail party
Welcome cocktail party and Captain’s dinner.

Porterage of luggage
Porterage of luggage
When you arrive at the port in Dover or Southampton we’ll even carry the bags, with included porterage right to your cabin.

Shuttle bus
Shuttle bus
Free shuttle bus at most ports wherever possible, and when the ship is berthed at least 500 yards away from the nearest town centre.

Sightseeing Tours
Sightseeing Tours
Six sightseeing tours in:
Málaga, Spain
Valletta, Malta
Istanbul, Turkey
Athens (for Piraeus), Greece
Cagliari, Sardinia
Almeria, Spain
- Britannia Lounge
Relax in comfort with a drink, and admire the spectacular panoramic views.
- Enjoy fine dining
Enjoy world-class cuisine at no extra cost in a choice of four restaurants.
- Spa
Indulge yourself with a spa treatment in one of our six treatment rooms.
- The Library
A booklover’s paradise combined with an artisanal coffee-shop, it's the perfect spot to research your next port of call.
- Time for you
Take advantage of tailored exercise regimes and bespoke one-to-one fitness sessions with our health and wellbeing expert.
- Daily afternoon tea
Indulge with a sumptuous selection of sweet treats at the daily afternoon tea.
- The Terrace
This elegant ‘secret’ garden area is the perfect setting to enjoy the fresh air any time of the day.
Explore Ashore
The jewel of Istanbul
Head to the old town to visit Hagia Sophia, which was built in the 6th century under the orders of Byzantine emperor Justinian I. This magnificent building features a huge 32-metre dome supported by great marble piers, a vast nave and an incredible collection of mosaics depicting religious images.
A cruise on the Bosphorus
Take a relaxing cruise along this winding 20-mile strait that separates Europe and Asia, and enjoy the scenery from a different perspective. See ruined fortresses, marble palaces, tiny fishing villages, and the domes and minarets of numerous mosques as your boat glides through the water.
The sacred island
Delos, which is easily reached by boat from Mykonos, boasts one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the whole of Greece. Believed to be the birthplace of the Sun God Apollo, the island was a popular destination for pilgrims throughout the Archaic and Classical periods. Take a guided walk around the site and see the stone lions of Naxos, which still stand guard over the lake where Apollo is believed to have been born.
Spirit of Discovery departing Southampton
from £5,985 per person2 passengers
24 nights 28th October 2021 Including optional travel insurance or a price reduction of £75 if not required