Crete, Greece 29 August 2023
Crete is a land of myth and imagination, where Theseus slayed the Minotaur, where Daedulus and Icarus set off on their ill-fated flight, and where Zorba danced on the sand. More than any other island, it is Greece in a nutshell—mountains, split with deep gorges and honeycombed with caves, rise in sheer walls from the sea; snowcapped peaks loom behind sandy shorelines.
It's also filled with vineyards and olive groves and delightful cities, and quaint villages front the miles of beaches that fringe the coast. It is an island blessed with natural wonders. Yet it is still the mystery surrounding Europe's first civilization and empire that draws many visitors to Crete and its world-famous Minoan palaces.
But there are many memorable places in Crete that belong to a more recent past, one measured in centuries and not millennia. Other invaders and occupiers—Roman colonists, the Byzantines, Arab invaders, Venetian colonists, and Ottoman pashas—have all left their mark on Heraklion, Chania, Rethymnon, and other towns and villages throughout the island. Today, Crete welcomes outsiders who delight in its splendid beaches, charming Old Town quarters, and array of splendid landscapes. Openly inviting to guests who want to experience the real Greece, Cretans remain family oriented and rooted in tradition, and you'll find that one of the greatest pleasures on Crete is immersing yourself in the island's lifestyle.
Ship arrives Crete at 09:00AM
Breakfast onboard the ship
PRINCESS TOUR: BEST OF CRETE (7.5HRS)
History comes alive on this all-day excursion that takes you to some of Crete's most popular sites. Once hailed as the home of the Minoan civilization, today it's home to a spectacular array of sights, monuments, and archeological wonders. You'll want to wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera to capture every memorable moment.
After boarding your comfortable motorcoach, you'll be whisked away to an ancient world when Crete was the cradle of the Mediterranean's early Bronze Age. Its capital was Knossos and its centerpiece was the famous Minoan Palace. Although it sits just 15 miles from Heraklion, it may feel like you've stepped back in time when you see the ruins of the 4,000-year-old palace come into view. Once you disembark, your knowledgeable guide will lead you around the palace that, according to Greek mythology, was the magnificent home of King Minos. Stretched over six acres, the palace is a marvel of camera-worthy delights. 1,300 rooms, corridors of different sizes, walls adorned with colorful frescoes, and graceful columns all add to the grandeur that was once the largest of all Minoan palatial structures. Originally constructed in 1900 B.C., it was destroyed and rebuilt over five centuries before its final destruction in 1400 B.C. The entire complex lay undisturbed until 1878 when a merchant discovered the ruins. 25 years later, the English archaeologist Sir Arthur Evans unearthed and restored much of what you see today.
The first site you'll visit is the West Court, believed to be a ceremonial center and nearby are circular pits called kouloures, which once stored grain. Once inside the palace you'll marvel at the Charging Bull Fresco before continuing on to the impressive Throne Room. Inside the chamber is an alabaster seat built into the wall. Opposite the throne is a magnificent fresco depicting griffins, the mythical beast that had an eagle's head and a lion's body, which symbolized royal and divine power. As you wind your way around the small yet impressive rooms, you may notice that it's not the mysterious labyrinth of Greek legend where the dreaded half-man, half-bull Minotaur lay in wait for its victims but a breathtaking walk through time.
Then you'll take a scenic ride along the coast to the seaside resort of Elounda and stop for photos of the mighty fortress on Spinalonga Island. Built by the Venetians in 1579, the island, like the rest of Crete, fell to the Ottoman Empire in the 17th century. Later, the island served as a leper colony until 1957.
Then drive to Aghios Nikolaos, which is probably the most picturesque harbor town in Crete. With its post card beauty, its small lake and bountiful stores. Free time will be given to enjoy this beautiful town on your own.
Stop for a delicious Greek lunch.
On the way back to your ship, enjoy a sightseeing tour through the streets of Heraklion past 16th century Venetian-style loggias; Platia Eleftherias, the city's largest square; and the massive fortified walls that date back to 961 A.D.
Ship sails at 6:00PM
Dinner onboard the ship at 8:00PM
Show in the lounge
Movies under the stars
Late night stop at casino
Overnight onboard Enchanted Princess
