Luxury Mediterranean Family Cruise: Explore Athens, the Aegean & Istanbul

One of the aspects I value most about a family cruise is the opportunity to combine the cruise with time spent exploring amazing cities at the embarkation and debarkation ports. This was certainly the case during our family vacation last summer. We are a family of four, with two teenage boys who now place just as much importance on the luxury of cruising as we do. The refined dining, enjoying all the luxurious amenities onboard, and especially taking in the stunning views were all part of the experience.

Athens: The Beginning of an Unforgettable Journey

We began our adventure in Athens, lodging at the Athens Capital Center Hotel, a lovely 5-star hotel situated in the heart of the city, right next to Syntagma Square and surrounded by fantastic restaurants and dining options. Upon landing at the bustling Athens airport, we were greeted by a luxurious van service organized through Blacklane, which made our transfer smooth and enjoyable despite the sweltering heat of 38°C (100.4°F).

The hotel’s rooftop pool was a perfect spot to cool down after a day of sightseeing, offering stunning views of the majestic Acropolis. We kicked off our stay with refreshing drinks by the pool before dining at Geco, a truly surprising modern Greek restaurant with live music. Adjacent to a trendy hotel, Geco combines Greek and Mediterranean classics with a modern twist, making it a must-visit culinary destination.

The Trendy Rooftop Pool and Bar at the Athens Capital Center Hotel

Over the next two days, we explored Athens’ rich history, visiting iconic sites like the Acropolis and Plaka. Then, it was time to embark on the next leg of our journey.

Boarding Explora I: A Floating Luxury Paradise

We boarded the luxurious Explora I, the first ship from the new luxury cruise brand Explora Journeys, which is redefining the upper segment of the cruise industry. The boarding process was extremely smooth and pleasant. Upon arrival, we were greeted with a bottle of champagne in our two connecting Ocean Terrace Suites. The suites offered all kinds of modern amenities, including floor warming in the bathrooms (not that it was really necessary in 35°C / 95°F weather). Each suite also featured a customizable complimentary mini bar and 24-hour dining options.

Explora I is undoubtedly the most beautiful ship I have ever sailed on in terms of luxury. Accommodating a maximum of 922 guests, all in-suites, the ship’s design is stunning, with five swimming pools, including gorgeous infinity jacuzzis.

Our itinerary through the Aegean Sea was filled with breathtaking destinations. In Mykonos, we stayed overnight and enjoyed evening drinks in the charming, whitewashed streets at night, making a memory we'll cherish. Skiathos and Kavala left a similar impression on us. A standout moment was our private trip to Ammolofoi Beach in Kavala, where the crystal-clear waters and immaculate sands amazed us.

Onboard, the dining experiences were unmatched. For breakfast and lunch, we adored the amazing Market Place, which provided much more than a standard buffet. Dining choices featured a French-inspired restaurant, a Mediterranean eatery, a steakhouse, an Asian fusion venue, and an Italian specialty restaurant—each offering a culinary delight. We also appreciated the outstanding cocktails and drinks, all part of the experience.

Istanbul: A Grand Finale

Our journey ended in the magnificent city of Istanbul. Sailing into the Bosphorus was an unforgettable moment, with views of the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque greeting us as we approached. We arranged a luxurious tour through Blacklane, which made exploring Istanbul effortless and comfortable.

We spent the night in Besiktas at the 5-star Swissôtel The Bosphorus, a sophisticated hotel offering breathtaking views and a prime spot close to Istanbul’s lively shopping districts. Our accommodation was a spacious two-bedroom residence apartment, and we were greeted with Turkish delights. Throughout our stay, we indulged in Turkish cuisine and enjoyed dining at Bono in Besiktas—a delightful restaurant I highly recommend. Shopping at the nearby malls added an element of excitement to our Istanbul visit.

Our vacation concluded at the impressive new Istanbul Airport, an architectural marvel and an experience in itself, leaving us with lasting memories of this remarkable trip.

A Summer to Treasure

From exploring Athens to sailing the Aegean and discovering the vibrant city of Istanbul, this journey offered the perfect balance of culture, relaxation, and family togetherness. Traveling aboard Explora I elevated the entire experience, providing unparalleled luxury and comfort.

This vacation reminded us of the joy of exploring the world together as a family, and we are already dreaming of our next adventure.