A chance to explore the Eastern Mediterranean history with this fantastic voyage on-board Brilliance of the Seas. From an overnight port stay in Istanbul to visiting the wild volcanic landscapes of Santorini and the windmills of Mykonos. With a Two nights' stay in the historic city of Athens before your cruise, this will set you up for voyage.
Bed and Breakfast
Brown Acropol is a brand new design hotel, the very first by Brown Hotels in Greece, inspired by the legendary cosmopolitan vibes of the 60s as well as the urban heritage of Athens. The hotels interiors and philosophy are based on a retro aesthetic, seasoned with a contemporary take on upscale leisure and lifestyle coolness. All 164 of its refurbished, high-end design rooms and suites feature comfy beds and luxurious bathrooms.
Royal Caribbean
Brilliance of the Seas is the second Radiance-class ship in Royal Caribbean's fleet. The ship's mediumish size -- it holds some 2,112 passengers at double occupancy. As with all ships in the Radiance series, passengers are never at a loss for a view: the ship's stunning nine-story central atrium is surrounded by glass, and elevators face the outside. Nearly every public area has a stunning view. Brilliance is suitably named, as the design of the ship is innovatively designed to be easy to navigate. The plethora of outdoor features, such as the rock climbing wall and mini-golf course are easy to find and no reservations are required.
Stateroom Accommodation
Brilliance features 1,075 staterooms in four main types: Suite, Balcony, Outside View and Interior. Every stateroom offers an interactive flat-screen TV with closed captioning, mini-bar and a vanity table with an extendable working surface for laptop computers, private bathroom with shower, 110/220 electrical outlets, a radio, telephone and a hair dryer. All rooms, save for the three Interior Studio Staterooms onboard, have a chair or sofa. Closet space in staterooms and suites is generally sufficient for four-person parties, each with one midsize suitcase and a carry-on bag. Most bathrooms are small but efficient, with glass-enclosed showers, compact counters, sinks and thin shelves for storage.
Dining Options
Minstrel Dining Room (decks 4 and 5, aft): The ship's main dining room spans two decks and has a gushing waterfall as its focal point. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and operates on an open-seating plan for breakfast and lunch.
There's undoubtedly no shortage of entertainment onboard Brilliance of the Seas. The ship rattles and hums with activity day and night, and passengers find they have run out of time before they run out of things to do. Lively and educational courses such as casino gaming lessons and travel photography are offered. There are elaborate production shows in the Pacifica Theatre, and people-watching at Viking Crown Lounge on Deck 13. Those seeking an upscale experience can enjoy sampling wine for a fee at the classes offered at Vintages wine bar on Deck 6.
Fly UK to Athens, Greece
Depart the UK for Athens, transfer to hotel for overnight stay
Athens, Greece
A chance to explore this historic city.
Athens, Greece
Transfer to cruise port and embark ship
Santorini, Greece
The most popular port of call on any cruise itinerary is the photographers paradise of Santorini. This volcanic island is made up of a crescent shaped Caldera which is the edge of an ancient volcano . Ancient legend suggests that this was the site of the lost city of Atlantis when the volcano erupted the centre of this island disappeared in to the sea leaving the remnant known as Santorini.
Kusadasi, Turkey
Kusadasi is the staging post for Ephesus (the Turkish equivalent of Pompeii) well known for the Temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world and is a popular tourist destination. Nearby there is the opportunity for lazing on the beach, snorkelling and for the thrill seekers out there, try the aquapark.
Istanbul, Turkey
Where east meets west straddling the Bosphorous Strait. Visit either Asia Minor or Europe in one city, check out the Blue Mosque and St Sophia - its twin, haggle in the Grand Bazaar, visit Topkapi palace and try out an invigorating Turkish Bath.
At Sea
Relax and make the most of the myriad of facilities available on board the ship, from fantastic entertainment to delicious and diverse dining options.
Mykonos, Greece
(Part of the Cyclades chain of Islands) is also frequently visited by many cruise ships for its Greek charm and upmarket cosmopolitan atmosphere – plus there are some excellent beaches.
Fly Athens, Greece to UK
Disembark ship for flight to UK
Prices are subject to availability and change. Offer and prices can be withdrawn at any time without any notice. Prices are per person based on two sharing a room. Carry-on and checked baggage restrictions vary by airline and may incur an additional charge.
Virgin Voyages
May 2025 - Sep 2025
Virgin Voyages
May 2025 - Sep 2025
Royal Caribbean
May 2025 - May 2026
Royal Caribbean
Nov 2024 - Apr 2025