Harbors of Faith Cruise onboard NCL Viva!
Pilgrimage Across the Sea
12 Days & 11 Nights Tour & Cruise
Athens-Ephesus-Istanbul-Volos-Mykonos-Santorini-Rhodes-Crete
Embark on a 12-day spiritual adventure, “Harbors of Faith,” tracing Apostle Paul’s journey through significant biblical sites in the Mediterranean. Begin in Athens, exploring Mars Hill and the Ancient Agora, then sail to Kusadasi to visit ancient Ephesus. Discover Istanbul’s rich Christian heritage before visiting the breathtaking Meteora Monasteries or Berea. Relax in Mykonos and marvel at Santorini’s stunning views. Explore Rhodes and Fair Havens in Crete, reflecting on Paul’s refuge. Conclude in Athens with a visit to Ancient Corinth and Cenchreae, deepening your faith and historical understanding. Join us for an unforgettable pilgrimage through Apostle Paul’s sacred journey.
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Destination
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Included
Our Deluxe MotorcoachesOur Expert GuidesOur Unsurpassed Service -
Not Included
Our Experienced Tour Director
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Day 1: Arrival Athens
Welcome to Athens, the historic capital of Greece. Upon arrival, you'll be greeted and transferred to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, exploring the vibrant city or simply relaxing after your journey. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner where you'll meet your fellow travelers and learn more about the exciting journey ahead.
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Day 2: Athens of Apostle Paul & Cruise Embarkation
After breakfast, embark on a guided tour of Athens, focusing on the places Apostle Paul visited. Start your day with a visit to the iconic Acropolis, an ancient citadel that has stood the test of time and witnessed the rise of one of the greatest civilizations. As you walk through the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike, imagine the grandeur of ancient Athens in Paul's time.
Next, proceed to the Areopagus (Mars Hill), where Paul delivered his famous sermon about the "Unknown God." Stand on the very spot where Paul addressed the Athenians and contemplate the significance of his words that resonated through history.
Acts 17:22-23: “Paul then stood up in the meeting of the Areopagus and said: ‘People of Athens! I see that in every way you are very religious. For as I walked around and looked carefully at your objects of worship, I even found an altar with this inscription: to an unknown god. So you are ignorant of the very thing you worship—and this is what I am going to proclaim to you.’”
After exploring Mars Hill, visit the Ancient Agora, the heart of ancient Athens where Paul debated daily with those who happened to be there. See the remains of the Stoa of Attalos and the Temple of Hephaestus, providing a glimpse into the social and political life of ancient Athenians.
In the afternoon, transfer to the port of Piraeus to embark on your cruise ship. Settle into your cabin and prepare for an unforgettable journey tracing the steps of Apostle Paul. Enjoy a sumptuous dinner on board as you set sail on your spiritual adventure.
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Day 3:Meteora Monasteries or Berea
Today's destination offers a choice: visit the breathtaking Meteora Monasteries, perched atop towering rock formations and offering spectacular views, or travel to Berea (modern-day Veria) to see the location where Paul preached to the noble Bereans.
Acts 17:11: “Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.”
Both options provide deep insights into the spiritual history of the region and Paul's missionary work.
Return to the ship for an overnight voyage to your next destination.
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Day 4: Ancient Ephesus
Today, the ship docks in Kusadasi, Turkey, where you'll visit the ancient city of Ephesus. Walk through the marble streets of this remarkably preserved city, starting at the Magnesian Gate and making your way to the Odeon. Continue to the Fountain of Trajan, the Temple of Hadrian, and the Scholastica Baths. Visit the Grand Theater, where Paul preached to the Ephesians and caused an uproar among the silversmiths.
Acts 19:29-31: “Soon the whole city was in an uproar. The people seized Gaius and Aristarchus, Paul’s traveling companions from Macedonia, and all of them rushed into the theater together. Paul wanted to appear before the crowd, but the disciples would not let him.”
Marvel at the Library of Celsus, one of the most magnificent structures of ancient Ephesus, and then visit the House of the Virgin Mary, believed to be the last residence of Mary, the mother of Jesus. You'll also see the ruins of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and understand why Ephesus was a major center for early Christianity.
Return to the ship in the evening, filled with the history and spirituality of this remarkable site.
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Day 5: Istanbul
Arrive in Istanbul, a city that straddles two continents and is rich in history and culture. Enjoy a full day exploring this vibrant city, including visits to the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the bustling Grand Bazaar. Learn about the city's role in the spread of Christianity and its significance during Paul's time.
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Day 6: Istanbul
Free Day in Istanbul or Optional Bosphorus Cruise.
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Day 7: Mykonos
Arrive in Mykonos, known for its picturesque white-washed buildings and vibrant nightlife. Spend the day exploring this charming island, with time to relax on its beautiful beaches or wander through the narrow streets of Mykonos Town. Visit the iconic windmills and enjoy the island's lively atmosphere before returning to the ship in the evening.
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Day 8: Santorini
Tender in Santorini, famous for its stunning caldera views and beautiful sunsets. Explore the charming villages of Oia and Fira, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery that makes Santorini one of the most popular destinations in the world.
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Day 9: Ancient Lindos of Apostle Paul
Today, you'll visit the island of Rhodes and the ancient city of Lindos. Discover the Acropolis of Lindos, which offers magnificent views of the surrounding sea and countryside. Learn about Paul's visit to the city and the impact of his teachings on the local population.
Acts 21:1: “After we had torn ourselves away from them, we put out to sea and sailed straight to Cos. The next day we went to Rhodes and from there to Patara.”
Spend some time exploring the quaint village of Lindos before returning to the ship.
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Day 10: Fair Heavens ( Heraklion )
Docked in Crete and visit Fair Havens, where Paul took refuge during his journey to Rome. Learn about the challenges Paul faced during his travels and the significance of this stop on his missionary journey.
Acts 27:8: “We moved along the coast with difficulty and came to a place called Fair Havens, near the town of Lasea.”
Enjoy the serene beauty of Crete and reflect on the spiritual journey you're undertaking. Return to the ship for your final night on board.
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Day 11: Disembarkation & Ancient Corinth
Disembark in Athens and embark on a final excursion to Ancient Corinth. Travel to the Peloponnese region to explore one of the most significant cities in early Christian history. Visit the archaeological site, including the Temple of Apollo, and stand on the Bema, where Paul was brought before the Roman proconsul Gallio.
Acts 18:12-13: “While Gallio was proconsul of Achaia, the Jews of Corinth made a united attack on Paul and brought him to the place of judgment. ‘This man,’ they charged, ‘is persuading the people to worship God in ways contrary to the law.’”
Explore the remains of the Roman Agora and the Peirene Fountain, which date back to Paul's time. Learn about the daily life in ancient Corinth and the challenges Paul faced while establishing the Christian community there. After exploring Corinth, make a short trip to Cenchreae, the eastern port of Corinth. Here, Paul cut his hair to fulfill a vow before sailing to Syria. In the evening, return to Athens for a farewell dinner with your group. Share your experiences and reflections from this remarkable journey tracing the footsteps of Apostle Paul.
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