Your Itinerary
ARRIVE IN ISTANBUL,TURKEY
Welcome to Istanbul!
At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and traveling companions for a welcome dinner at the hotel. (D)
East meets West
Discover Istanbul with a captivating, guided sightseeing tour. Visit the Roman Hippodrome and hear about the events held there. Marvel at the six minarets of the Blue Mosque, and the intricate decoration and blue hues of its interior. Stand below the breathtaking dome of the Hagia Sophia, visit Topkapi Palace to see how the Sultan’s lived, and discover a shopper’s paradise with a visit to the Grand Bazaar, the largest covered market in the world, spread over 60 streets and location of over 4000 shops! Enjoy [LF] a traditional Turkish coffee experience at a historical coffee roaster. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHTCULTURE & TRADITIONS Founded by the Greeks as Byzantium more than 2,500 years ago and ultimately called Istanbul after the Ottoman conquest in the 15th century, the city on the Bosporus remains one of the most exciting places in the world. Its strategic location as a gateway between Orient and Occident, the Islamic and the Christian worlds, and the Black Sea and the Mediterranean predestined it for a turbulent yet exciting history.
ISTANBUL–GALLIPOLI–TROY AREA
Bravery on the Beach
This morning, drive to the Gallipoli peninsula and visit the WWI battlefields, the Anzac Cemetery, the Lone Pine Memorial, and Chunuk Bair Memorial sites before crossing the Dardanelles by ferry. Later, enjoy a fascinating guided visit to the archaeological site, dating back over 4000 years. See the symbolic wooden Trojan Horse that commemorates the Trojan War, it was supposedly the winning tactic. (B,D)236 mi/ 380 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHT HISTORY & HERITAGE Visit the moving and inspirational sites, where Allied troops, mainly Australians and New Zealanders, suffered heavy casualties in a disastrous campaign. Pay tribute to the heroes of those tragic months of 1915 at the Anzac Cemetery and the Lone Pine Memorial.
TROY AREA–PERGAMUM–KUSADASI
The Sacred Way
This morning drive to Pergamum for a guided visit of the Asklepion, a healing temple and shrine to the Greek God of medicine. Continue your journey and arrive in Ephesus to visit the Archaeological Museum for an introduction to the city and its people. (B,D) 267 mi / 430 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHT HEALING THE BODY &THE SOUL Nestled between hills, the Asklepion retains a sense of serenity and history. Here, the sick sought healing as they approached the temple via the Sacred Way, a pathway to healing based on the patient’s dreams and through theatrical presentations—healing practiced as a sacred art to heal both body and soul.
KUSADASI–EPHESUS–PAMUKKALE
Ancient Civilization Preserved
Start your day at the incredible archaeological site of Ephesus and be captivated by stories as you follow your Local Guide on a fascinating walking tour through the ancient ruins, including St. John's Basilica, believed to be the burial site of the apostle John. Later, arrive at the ancient city of Hierapolis for a visit, founded as a thermal resort around 190 BC, and said to have been visited by Cleopatra. See the main attractions and take time to marvel at the stunning backdrop of Pamukkale with its travertine terraces and thermal water pools. (B,D) 137 mi / 220 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHTHISTORIC SPOTS Ephesus was one of the most famous cities of the ancient Mediterranean. It was the second biggest city of the Roman Empire and today it is one of the largest Roman archaeological sites in the eastern Mediterranean.
In the Shadow of Mount Olympus
This morning, drive to Bursa, the first capital of the Ottoman Empire. Your sightseeing tour features a visit to the Great Mosque (Ulu Cai), an architectural masterpiece famous for its twenty domes supported by twelve pillars. Plus, visit the historical, covered bazaar and silk market followed by a Kestane Sekeri tasting. Enjoy free time this evening to explore more. (B) 280mi / 450 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHT THE SILK ROAD Wander through the long winding bazaar in Bursa, Turkey’s centuries-old city center, taking in the sights, sounds, and smells of the buzzing marketplace. Treat your taste buds to one of the city’s famous sweets, the Kestane Sekeri, and find the perfect gift for yourself or a friend, a piece of authentic Bursa-made silk.
Ancient Walls & Ecumenical Council
Drive to Iznik, a significant town located on the banks of Lake Iznik and famous for its vibrantly colored tiles and pottery. Your guided sightseeing tour includes a visit to the Great Mosque (St. Sophia’s Church) and the Archaeological Museum. After some free time, continue to Istanbul and join your travel companions this evening for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D) 137 mi / 220 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHT CERAMIC BEYOND TIMES Iznik is a completely 'open-air museum' with its rare ancient history and uniqueness. It is also the birthplace of the world famous Iznik tiles – a treasured art form dating back to the Ottoman Empire.
Hello Dubai!
Today, bid good-bye to Turkey as you board your flight to Dubai, one of the U.A.E.’s most famous emirates. On arrival a Local Host will meet you and accompany you to the hotel. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHT REACH FOR THE SKY The drive to your hotel gives you the first taste of the U.A.E., a relatively young country built on a rich heritage, driven by grand aspirations, and thriving on a mosaic of cultures. Get your first glimpse of the glittering skyline, composed of opulent buildings that blend innovation and heritage. Keep your eye out for the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building!
City of Gold
Today, head to the port, and embark your Celestyal cruise ship. Spend the day relaxing onboard or discover the different facets of Dubai; perhaps take a step back in time with a visit to the Old Town and Gold Souk or look to the future and admire the modern landmarks and man-made islands. Dubai could be the exception to the saying “all that glitters isn’t gold” – look out for edible gold on gourmet ice-cream and ATMs distributing gold bars! (B,D)ENHANCED FREE TIME CULTURE AND TRADITIONS. Why not go beyond the glitter and the glam of the skyline and head to the desert on an optional shore excursion. Enjoy a 4x4 ride over the dunes to admire the sunset before enjoying a barbecue dinner under the stars in a traditional desert camp.
Record Breakers
Enjoy a full day at leisure to explore more of Dubai; there is so much to see! How about some retail therapy? Dubai is a shopper’s paradise and home to the world’s biggest shopping mall with over 1200 shops! Or head to the Ain Dubai, the world’s largest observation wheel, affording incredible views of the city. Or get some great snapshots at the Dubai Frame. Don’t forget to sample local specialties. (B,L,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHTBOLD ASPIRATIONS AND INCREDIBLE TRANSFORMATIONS. It’s hard to imagine that in the 1960s Dubai was a small community with limited resources. The unification of the Emirates under Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan brought about transformation, he famously said “The race for excellence has no finish line”; Dubai is the perfect example of this, 20% of the world’s cranes are located here to enable construction and growth to continue.
Cosmopolitan Capital
Sail into the port of Abu Dhabi, capital city of the U.A.E. and enjoy a full day exploring this cosmopolitan city. Why not join an optional shore excursion to marvel at the stunning Sheikh Zayed Mosque, an architectural masterpiece boasting 1000 pillars and 82 marble domes. For tasty treats head to the date market and be amazed at the huge variety on offer. (B,L,D)ENHANCED FREE TIMEEXPLORE MORE and visit the splendid Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a true spiritual landmark. Its serene white marble exterior and sweeping domes reflect a blend of diverse Islamic architectural traditions. Inside, the mosque features remarkable handcrafted details, including the world’s largest hand knotted carpet and immense crystal chandeliers enriched with 24 karat gold.
CRUISING: SIR BANI YAS ISLAND
Naturally Reserved!
Today’s port of call is the largest natural island in the U.A.E. – Sir Bani Yas Island. There is an abundance of things to see and do here; it is a leading eco-tourism destination, home to numerous archeological sites, and most famously a wildlife sanctuary. (B,L,D)ENHANCED FREE TIME NATURAL WONDERS In a bid to combat environmental degradation and to protect the U.A.E.’s natural heritage, Sheikh Zayed’s vision of a thriving wildlife reserve was turned into reality. Over 3 million trees were planted, an irrigation project supported by sustainable energy was implemented, an 8 mile no fishing zone was enforced to protect marine wildlife and endangered animals, along with other species, were relocated there. It is now home to over 17 000 free roaming animals. Optional shore excursions are available to show you more.
Island of Smiles
Before lunch, dock at the island archipelago Kingdom of Bahrain, the smallest country in the Middle East. An afternoon of leisure time will introduce you to the warm hospitality of the country that has led to it being called “The Island of Smiles”. Discover its fusion of heritage and modernity created as it moved from being an important trade hub and leading pearl supplier to the first Gulf nation to discover oil. (B,L,D)ENHANCED FREE TIMECULTURE HUB Why not experience Bahraini culture and dive into the hustle and bustle of the Manama Souq, Bahrain’s most historic bazaar. Browse the stalls and stores bearing gold, pearls, spices, handicrafts, perfumes, and traditional halwa sweets. Afterwards, get more of a taste for the country and sit down to enjoy some local mezze!
DESERT JEWEL
Enjoy a full day exploring Doha, the capital of Qatar; a modern city that has risen from a small pearl-diving community. Join an optional shore excursion to fully immerse yourself in Doha’s history and culture. (B,L,D)ENHANCED FREE TIMECULTURAL JOURNEY Follow your guide on an optional excursion; starting at the colorful Souq Waqif where you can browse the labyrinth of alleyways lined with stalls offering spices, perfumes, souvenirs, and traditional Qatari clothing. Later take snapshots of the luxury artificial island Pearl-Qatar before heading to the Katara Cultural Village, Doha’s destination for art, culture, and cuisine. At the Dhow Harbor see the traditional wooden boats and admire views of the spectacular Museum of Islamic Art.
Beyond the shore!
A day at sea gives you ample time to explore the ship’s numerous amenities, activities, and cuisine. Relax and enjoy the panorama as you sail between ports. (B,L,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHT SHIP SPOTLIGHT The Celestyal Journey takes you closer to incredible destinations with warm hospitality and indulgent amenities. Offering a number of ways to relax and recharge onboard—from swimming to spa treatments to gym and retail shops, the ship also offers eight bars and seven restaurants with a variety of culinary offerings. So, sit back, relax, and let the Celestyal Journey make your voyage an unforgettable experience.
DUBAI, U.A.E. (DISEMBARKATION)
This morning, disembark from the ship. Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)