From the Turquoise Coast to Byzantium - Turkey & Cyprus Cruise

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12 days from

£7495.0

* Current p/p indicative rate.

Overview
Highlights
Dates & Prices
Itinerary
Map
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Highlights

  • Exploring the ancient city of Ephesus from Kusadasi, Turkey, where you can witness impressive ruins, including the Library of Celsus, the Temple of Serapis, and the Grand Theatre. Ephesus is also linked to St. Paul's missionary journey.
  • Visiting the sacred island of Patmos, Greece, where you can explore the grotto of St. John and the Monastery of St. John the Theologian. The island holds great significance for both Orthodox and Western Christians.
  • Discovering the archaeological wonders of Troy in Canakkale, Turkey. Explore the ongoing excavations and walk the walls of this legendary city, famous for the epic tales of the Trojan War as told by Homer.
  • The cruise's conclusion in Istanbul, Turkey, allows you to spend time exploring remarkable historical sites such as the Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and the Basilica Cistern, or indulging in shopping at the Grand Bazaar. Istanbul is a city where East meets West, and its rich history and culture are captivating.

Highlights

  • Exploring the ancient city of Ephesus from Kusadasi, Turkey, where you can witness impressive ruins, including the Library of Celsus, the Temple of Serapis, and the Grand Theatre. Ephesus is also linked to St. Paul's missionary journey.
  • Visiting the sacred island of Patmos, Greece, where you can explore the grotto of St. John and the Monastery of St. John the Theologian. The island holds great significance for both Orthodox and Western Christians.
  • Discovering the archaeological wonders of Troy in Canakkale, Turkey. Explore the ongoing excavations and walk the walls of this legendary city, famous for the epic tales of the Trojan War as told by Homer.
  • The cruise's conclusion in Istanbul, Turkey, allows you to spend time exploring remarkable historical sites such as the Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and the Basilica Cistern, or indulging in shopping at the Grand Bazaar. Istanbul is a city where East meets West, and its rich history and culture are captivating.
Capacity: 114, Type: Luxury Small Ship Cruise

The Lycians were definitely on to something when they set their empire on the peninsula nestled between Antalya and Fethiye. It is an astoundingly beautiful stretch of azure coastline backed by the luscious, forested hills. Whilst the Turquoise Coast may appear all sun-and-sea, join us aboard the 118-passenger MS Hebridean Sky and let us show you an alternative aspect of the region as we explore some of the most historic and scenically beautiful places in Turkey and Greece.

We begin our spring voyage in Limassol and from here head to Turkey where we will be captivated by ancient relics from the Roman and Byzantine eras. Discover the ancient cities of Perge and Xanthos, floating over the slopes, with the decorative tombs engraved into the cliffs at Myra. Sailing on, we will explore the Turkish Coast in some depth visiting charming ports, many of which are out of bounds to the big ships and where the laid back atmosphere will complement our small ship as we explore delightful towns. We also visit some truly wonderful sites such as Patmos where we will visit the grotto of St John, Ephesus, one of the most famous Graeco-Roman sites in the Mediterranean and Pergamon, one of the cultural capitals of antiquity and a city of endless fascination. Our enthralling voyage concludes in Istanbul, which since its first incarnation as the 7th century BC Greek colony of Byzantium has played an important role in the fortunes of the eastern Mediterranean, and a final day discovering the many wonders of the city makes for a fitting end to our journey.

Our itinerary represents small ship cruising at its best and is timed for April when the absence of high summer crowds will contribute towards making this a very memorable journey during which over 3,000 years of history can be viewed in relative peace. Every new day brings a different vista and whether you are interested in ancient history or simply enjoy cruising amongst beautiful scenery, this voyage has something to offer for everyone.

  • Exploring the ancient city of Ephesus from Kusadasi, Turkey, where you can witness impressive ruins, including the Library of Celsus, the Temple of Serapis, and the Grand Theatre. Ephesus is also linked to St. Paul's missionary journey.
  • Visiting the sacred island of Patmos, Greece, where you can explore the grotto of St. John and the Monastery of St. John the Theologian. The island holds great significance for both Orthodox and Western Christians.
  • Discovering the archaeological wonders of Troy in Canakkale, Turkey. Explore the ongoing excavations and walk the walls of this legendary city, famous for the epic tales of the Trojan War as told by Homer.
  • The cruise's conclusion in Istanbul, Turkey, allows you to spend time exploring remarkable historical sites such as the Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and the Basilica Cistern, or indulging in shopping at the Grand Bazaar. Istanbul is a city where East meets West, and its rich history and culture are captivating.
11 April, 2025 to 22 April, 2025 on Hebridean Sky
Prices

Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.

Shackleton Deck Owner's Balcony Suite
£ 10495 GBP pp
 Shackleton Deck Owner's Balcony Suite
All feature a sitting area, en suite bathroom with vanity unit and walk-in shower featuring rainfall and separate hand held shower heads, spacious wardrobe and dressing table. Cabins on the Shackleton & Scott Decks have private balconies. All cabins have the following facilities: • Dressing gowns and slippers • TV • Electrical outlet • Hairdryer • Heating and air-conditioning (individually controlled) • Mini bar & Fridge – upon request it can be filled with soft drinks and beer for purchase. The mini bar is stocked on arrival and replenished daily. A price list can be found in the cabin. • Safe • Molton Brown toiletries: hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, hair conditioner and body lotion • Telephone Each cabin has two twin beds that can be reconfigured to form a double bed upon request with the exception of cabins 601 and 602 which both feature a fixed double bed. Please advise the Reservations Department or the Reception Desk, once on board, if you would like a double bed. Cabins are serviced each morning by your cabin attendant and again in the evening when the beds are turned down. Please note that aboard the MS Hebridean Sky, all cabins have a shower but none have bath
Scott Deck Deluxe Balcony Suite
£ 9995 GBP pp
 Scott Deck Deluxe Balcony Suite
All feature a sitting area, en suite bathroom with vanity unit and walk-in shower featuring rainfall and separate hand held shower heads, spacious wardrobe and dressing table. Cabins on the Shackleton & Scott Decks have private balconies. All cabins have the following facilities: • Dressing gowns and slippers • TV • Electrical outlet • Hairdryer • Heating and air-conditioning (individually controlled) • Mini bar & Fridge – upon request it can be filled with soft drinks and beer for purchase. The mini bar is stocked on arrival and replenished daily. A price list can be found in the cabin. • Safe • Molton Brown toiletries: hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, hair conditioner and body lotion • Telephone Each cabin has two twin beds that can be reconfigured to form a double bed upon request with the exception of cabins 601 and 602 which both feature a fixed double bed. Please advise the Reservations Department or the Reception Desk, once on board, if you would like a double bed. Cabins are serviced each morning by your cabin attendant and again in the evening when the beds are turned down. Please note that aboard the MS Hebridean Sky, all cabins have a shower but none have bath
Mawson Deck Corner Suite
£ 8995 GBP pp
 Mawson Deck Corner Suite
All feature a sitting area, en suite bathroom with vanity unit and walk-in shower featuring rainfall and separate hand held shower heads, spacious wardrobe and dressing table. Cabins on the Shackleton & Scott Decks have private balconies. All cabins have the following facilities: • Dressing gowns and slippers • TV • Electrical outlet • Hairdryer • Heating and air-conditioning (individually controlled) • Mini bar & Fridge – upon request it can be filled with soft drinks and beer for purchase. The mini bar is stocked on arrival and replenished daily. A price list can be found in the cabin. • Safe • Molton Brown toiletries: hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, hair conditioner and body lotion • Telephone Each cabin has two twin beds that can be reconfigured to form a double bed upon request with the exception of cabins 601 and 602 which both feature a fixed double bed. Please advise the Reservations Department or the Reception Desk, once on board, if you would like a double bed. Cabins are serviced each morning by your cabin attendant and again in the evening when the beds are turned down. Please note that aboard the MS Hebridean Sky, all cabins have a shower but none have bath
Shackleton Deck Hebridean Suite
£ 11495 GBP pp
 Shackleton Deck Hebridean Suite
All feature a sitting area, en suite bathroom with vanity unit and walk-in shower featuring rainfall and separate hand held shower heads, spacious wardrobe and dressing table. Cabins on the Shackleton & Scott Decks have private balconies. All cabins have the following facilities: • Dressing gowns and slippers • TV • Electrical outlet • Hairdryer • Heating and air-conditioning (individually controlled) • Mini bar & Fridge – upon request it can be filled with soft drinks and beer for purchase. The mini bar is stocked on arrival and replenished daily. A price list can be found in the cabin. • Safe • Molton Brown toiletries: hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, hair conditioner and body lotion • Telephone Each cabin has two twin beds that can be reconfigured to form a double bed upon request with the exception of cabins 601 and 602 which both feature a fixed double bed. Please advise the Reservations Department or the Reception Desk, once on board, if you would like a double bed. Cabins are serviced each morning by your cabin attendant and again in the evening when the beds are turned down. Please note that aboard the MS Hebridean Sky, all cabins have a shower but none have bath
Amundsen Deck Standard Sole
£ 8495 GBP pp
 Amundsen Deck Standard Sole
All feature a sitting area, en suite bathroom with vanity unit and walk-in shower featuring rainfall and separate hand held shower heads, spacious wardrobe and dressing table. Cabins on the Shackleton & Scott Decks have private balconies. All cabins have the following facilities: • Dressing gowns and slippers • TV • Electrical outlet • Hairdryer • Heating and air-conditioning (individually controlled) • Mini bar & Fridge – upon request it can be filled with soft drinks and beer for purchase. The mini bar is stocked on arrival and replenished daily. A price list can be found in the cabin. • Safe • Molton Brown toiletries: hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, hair conditioner and body lotion • Telephone Each cabin has two twin beds that can be reconfigured to form a double bed upon request with the exception of cabins 601 and 602 which both feature a fixed double bed. Please advise the Reservations Department or the Reception Desk, once on board, if you would like a double bed. Cabins are serviced each morning by your cabin attendant and again in the evening when the beds are turned down. Please note that aboard the MS Hebridean Sky, all cabins have a shower but none have bath
Amundsen Deck Standard Suite
£ 7495 GBP pp
Amundsen Deck Standard Suite
All feature a sitting area, en suite bathroom with vanity unit and walk-in shower featuring rainfall and separate hand held shower heads, spacious wardrobe and dressing table. Cabins on the Shackleton & Scott Decks have private balconies. All cabins have the following facilities: • Dressing gowns and slippers • TV • Electrical outlet • Hairdryer • Heating and air-conditioning (individually controlled) • Mini bar & Fridge – upon request it can be filled with soft drinks and beer for purchase. The mini bar is stocked on arrival and replenished daily. A price list can be found in the cabin. • Safe • Molton Brown toiletries: hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, hair conditioner and body lotion • Telephone Each cabin has two twin beds that can be reconfigured to form a double bed upon request with the exception of cabins 601 and 602 which both feature a fixed double bed. Please advise the Reservations Department or the Reception Desk, once on board, if you would like a double bed. Cabins are serviced each morning by your cabin attendant and again in the evening when the beds are turned down. Please note that aboard the MS Hebridean Sky, all cabins have a shower but none have bath
Byrd Deck Superior Sole
£ 8995 GBP pp
 Byrd Deck Superior Sole
All feature a sitting area, en suite bathroom with vanity unit and walk-in shower featuring rainfall and separate hand held shower heads, spacious wardrobe and dressing table. Cabins on the Shackleton & Scott Decks have private balconies. All cabins have the following facilities: • Dressing gowns and slippers • TV • Electrical outlet • Hairdryer • Heating and air-conditioning (individually controlled) • Mini bar & Fridge – upon request it can be filled with soft drinks and beer for purchase. The mini bar is stocked on arrival and replenished daily. A price list can be found in the cabin. • Safe • Molton Brown toiletries: hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, hair conditioner and body lotion • Telephone Each cabin has two twin beds that can be reconfigured to form a double bed upon request with the exception of cabins 601 and 602 which both feature a fixed double bed. Please advise the Reservations Department or the Reception Desk, once on board, if you would like a double bed. Cabins are serviced each morning by your cabin attendant and again in the evening when the beds are turned down. Please note that aboard the MS Hebridean Sky, all cabins have a shower but none have bath
Byrd Deck Superior Suite
£ 7995 GBP pp
 Byrd Deck Superior Suite
All feature a sitting area, en suite bathroom with vanity unit and walk-in shower featuring rainfall and separate hand held shower heads, spacious wardrobe and dressing table. Cabins on the Shackleton & Scott Decks have private balconies. All cabins have the following facilities: • Dressing gowns and slippers • TV • Electrical outlet • Hairdryer • Heating and air-conditioning (individually controlled) • Mini bar & Fridge – upon request it can be filled with soft drinks and beer for purchase. The mini bar is stocked on arrival and replenished daily. A price list can be found in the cabin. • Safe • Molton Brown toiletries: hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, hair conditioner and body lotion • Telephone Each cabin has two twin beds that can be reconfigured to form a double bed upon request with the exception of cabins 601 and 602 which both feature a fixed double bed. Please advise the Reservations Department or the Reception Desk, once on board, if you would like a double bed. Cabins are serviced each morning by your cabin attendant and again in the evening when the beds are turned down. Please note that aboard the MS Hebridean Sky, all cabins have a shower but none have bath
Mawson Deck Premium Suite
£ 8495 GBP pp
 Mawson Deck Premium Suite
All feature a sitting area, en suite bathroom with vanity unit and walk-in shower featuring rainfall and separate hand held shower heads, spacious wardrobe and dressing table. Cabins on the Shackleton & Scott Decks have private balconies. All cabins have the following facilities: • Dressing gowns and slippers • TV • Electrical outlet • Hairdryer • Heating and air-conditioning (individually controlled) • Mini bar & Fridge – upon request it can be filled with soft drinks and beer for purchase. The mini bar is stocked on arrival and replenished daily. A price list can be found in the cabin. • Safe • Molton Brown toiletries: hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, hair conditioner and body lotion • Telephone Each cabin has two twin beds that can be reconfigured to form a double bed upon request with the exception of cabins 601 and 602 which both feature a fixed double bed. Please advise the Reservations Department or the Reception Desk, once on board, if you would like a double bed. Cabins are serviced each morning by your cabin attendant and again in the evening when the beds are turned down. Please note that aboard the MS Hebridean Sky, all cabins have a shower but none have bath
show reverse itinerary
Day 1 London to Limassol, Cyprus.
Fly by scheduled flight. Arrive this afternoon and transfer to the MS Hebridean Sky for embarkation. Sail this evening.
Day 2 Alanya, Turkey.
Spend the morning at sea as we sail towards the Turkish coast arriving after lunch. This afternoon, choose to drive through the town, with views of the Taurus Mountains in the east, then along the beautiful Turkish Riviera towards the ancient city of Side which was one of the leading Pamphylian cities on the south coast of Anatolia. Visit the Grand Theatre, a perfect example of a Roman theatre built on vaults on flat land. Walk through the town, view the old harbour and see the remains of the Apollo Temple. Alternatively, spend the afternoon exploring the town of Alanya with its Medieval fort perched on a rocky peninsula.
Day 3 Antalya.
Over breakfast we will arrive in Antalya from where we explore the principal Roman ruins along Turkey’s southern coast. We pass the modern city of Antalya en-route to the ancient city of Perge which dates back to 1000 BC and was founded by Mopsus and Calchas after their retreat from Troy. See the Basilica of Perge, which played an important role in the spread of Christianity, the 2nd century AD stadium, the baths complex and two magnificent round towers of the Greek Gate. We drive further east for a visit to Aspendos, whose amphitheatre built in the 2nd century AD is considered the best preserved in the Mediterranean. After lunch in a local restaurant continue to Antalya to visit the excellent Archaeological Museum or return to the ship.
Day 4 Myra & Kekova.
From our anchorage in the Bay of Cayagzi we will use local boats to visit the ancient port of Myra, the former capital of Lycia and the departure point of Paul to Rome in 60 AD. Surrounded by orchards and miles of greenhouses stands a large, well-preserved Roman theatre backed by splendid Lycian cave-tombs with delicately carved façades. In the town of Myra, the birthplace of St Nicholas, we visit the 11th century Church of St Nicholas, only recently excavated, with its faded frescoes and beautiful mosaic floors. We will return to the MS Hebridean Sky for lunch and the afternoon is free to relax on board or join a local boat excursion into Kekova Bay where the narrow island of Kekova forms a number of beautiful bays and indented waterways. Here we can view the half-submerged ruins of the ancient city of Simena. We will also land at the village of Kalekoy where a strenuous walk will take us up to the Lycian castle with sarcophagi overlooking the sea.
Day 5 Xanthos & Patara.
From the harbour at Fethiye, we travel to the southeast to discover the rich Lycian towns of the past. Drive along the Esme River to the ancient city of Xanthos, Lycia’s prominent capital city built on a great cliff overlooking the river. Xanthos boasts several significant ruins including the Nereid Monument, an exquisite Ionic building whose figured friezes are in the British Museum. Continue to Letoon, a city named after Leto, Mother Goddess of Lycians. We will see the ruins of the temples dedicated to Leto, Artemis and Apollo and the amphitheatre. Enjoy a local lunch before visiting Patara, located amidst sand dunes and by a long sandy beach. The city was conquered by Alexander the Great and St Paul stopped here on his way to Rome in AD 60. It was also the birthplace of St Nicholas. See the Grand Theatre and the ruins of the temples. Please note that we may be at anchor today in which instance the vessel’s Zodiacs will be used for transport ashore.
Day 6 Marmaris.
After breakfast we will drive inland to Kaunos which was a city of ancient Caria and said to have been founded by Kaunos, son of Miletos and Kyane. Located at the foot of Mount Tarbelos, its acropolis was called Imbros and it exported highly prized figs chiefly to Rome. It was the home of the painter Protogenes and was a member of the Chrysaorian League. The ruins of the city are near Dalyan, on the right bank of the ancient Kalbis (Dalyan River) and include a theatre, a large rectangular building that may have been a temple, a Roman bath, a Byzantine church, and rock-hewn tombs. Accessible only by river, we will take local boats to the site. Return to the MS Hebridean Sky and spend a leisurely afternoon at sea.
Day 7 Patmos, Greece.
Of all the Greek islands, Patmos is the most sacred to Christians both Orthodox and Western and it was here that St John received his revelation. This morning we will make our way to the grotto of St John. This small cave, now converted into a beautiful chapel, is where the Saint lived, had his revelation and wrote ‘Book of the Apocalypse’. From here we continue to the village of Chora, with its simple houses and Byzantine churches and climb to the Monastery of St John the Theologian. Upon entering into the courtyard, admire the intricate pebbled laid floor, decorated arches, and frescoes adorning the entrance to the chapel of Christodoulos. This afternoon is at leisure to explore the picturesque town of Skala.
Day 8 Kusadasi for Ephesus, Turkey.
Return to Turkey at Kusadasi, our base to explore the nearby ancient city of Ephesus, a stunning and partially excavated site where digging has been taking place for over a century. Broad streets are lined by impressive buildings including the Library of Celsus and the temples of Serapis and Hadrian. Once the capital of Ionia, St Paul preached here on his second missionary journey and we will see the Church of the Virgin Mary, the most important Christian monument in Ephesus. Also see the spectacular Grand Theatre, originally built in the 3rd century BC by the Greeks, and later expanded by the Romans to its present capacity of 24,000. We will enjoy an afternoon at leisure in Kusadasi.
Day 9 Pergamon.
From our berth in Dikili we will drive inland, past fertile fields and olive trees, to the present day modern town of Bergama, once known as Pergamon, a great centre of culture. Today Pergamon is one of Turkey’s finest archaeological sites. We will visit the Asclepion, a healing centre from the 4th century BC and one of the most important sites of Pergamon. Discover the Temple of Asclepios, the amphitheatre, and walk through the sacred corridor and down the ancient, arcaded, marble-paved boulevard. Continue into the town of Bergama and visit the Archaeological Museum which houses relics discovered during the excavations of Pergamon. En-route we will see the Basilica which was one of the earliest of the Seven Churches of Asia Minor. Take a cable car up to the Acropolis to explore the remains of the citadel and the city walls, the foundations of the Zeus Altar, and the Royal Palace. Lunch today will be served ashore.
Day 10 Canakkale for Troy.
Arrive this morning into the port of Canakkale, our gateway for Troy. Ongoing archaeological excavations have revealed nine different layers of cities superimposed in rings on a massive mound rising above the Plain of Ilium. It was at one of these cities, as legend has it, that the Greeks fought the Trojans as told by Homer in the Iliad. Our tour follows the excavations made by Heinrich Schliemann, the archaeologist who discovered Troy and ‘Priam’s Treasure’, the jewels that, Schliemann claimed, were worn by Helen of Troy. We will walk the walls that held Helen of Troy and look down at the plain where Achilles dragged the dead body of Hector. We can also visit the on-site Troy Museum. This afternoon and evening we will cruise through the Dardanelles and into the Sea of Marmara.
Day 11 Istanbul.
Be on deck this morning as we cruise into Istanbul. We will spend the morning at the impressive Topkapi Palace, a complex of buildings and annexes that was used as the Imperial residence of the Ottoman Sultans for nearly 400 years. Since 1924 it has been preserved as a museum, and it is noted for its beautiful, shaded courtyards and elegant architecture. Return to the ship for lunch and the afternoon is free to explore further at your own pace. Maybe visit the Hagia Sophia, 6th century Basilica Cistern or find a bargain at the Grand Bazaar.
Day 12 Istanbul to London.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London.
Please Note:
Itineraries are subject to change.
Hebridean Sky
Hebridean Sky has always been known for its effortless elegance, impeccable service and atmosphere of charm and camaraderie. Now we add increased adventure options and an on-site Passenger Service Re…

Hebridean Sky

Length 90 metres
Built/refurbished 1992/2016

Hebridean Sky has always been known for its effortless elegance, impeccable service and atmosphere of charm and camaraderie. Now we add increased adventure options and an on-site Passenger Service Representative. Hebridean Sky is the perfect blend of luxury and adventurous exploration. Is it a luxury ship? An adventure ship? It’s both! The vessel underwent a multi-million pound refurbishment in Sweden in Spring 2016.

ONBOARD DINING

Great expeditions require great food! We are pleased to offer daily changing breakfast, lunch and dinner menus with an emphasis on providing well balanced and nutritional cuisine. Our team of international chefs has boat loads of creativity and you are sure to experience a variety of interesting dishes throughout your voyage. The restaurant is located on Deck 2 and our service team looks forward to providing a memorable dining experience.

IMPECCABLE SMALL-SHIP AMENITIES

Returning from excursions, passengers enjoy complimentary refreshments, afternoon tea and all-day coffee in The Club, a gracious space for relaxation, surrounded by panoramic windows. Other Sea Explorer features include:

  • Library with Internet access
  • Lounge with audiovisual facilities
  • Dining room
  • Wraparound sun deck with Jacuzzi
  • Exercise room
  • Medical facilities with available doctor
  • Elevator serving all passenger decks
  • Swimming/zodiac platform
All Voyages Include:

Up to Two Pre-Voyage Hotel Nights
Complimentary Wine or Beer with Dinner
Certified Emergency MD and Clinic
World Class Cuisine
Live Entertainment
Complimentary Coffee/Tea station
Voyage Photographer
Dedicated Passenger Service Manager
Complimentary Expedition Jacket

Please note deck plan may vary.

Cabin layout for Hebridean Sky
Overview
Highlights
Dates & Prices
Itinerary
Map
Ship

12 days from £7495.0

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