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Two cruise options departing from Athens (Piraeus) invite travelers to explore iconic islands and archaeological treasures aboard the Celebrity Infinity. Both sailings begin and end in the same historic port and follow carefully planned port call times to maximize onshore hours while including restorative days at sea. The word itinerary here refers to the full schedule of daily port calls and at-sea periods, including the exact embarkation and arrival times that matter for planning transfers and flights. Whether you prefer a longer route that reaches Cyprus and Turkey or a shorter circuit focused on Greek highlights, these cruises deliver coastal panoramas, cultural sites and comfortable onboard amenities.
Practical starting notes and embarkation
Both journeys embark from Athens (Piraeus) with ship departure listed at 5:00 pm, and guests are advised to allow ample time for check-in and boarding—typically two to three hours to avoid rush and ensure a relaxed departure. The ship returns to Piraeus early in the morning—arriving at 5:00 am—so those with same-day flights should schedule connections with sufficient margin. Onboard, expect standard cruise packages and optional upgrades; the notes emphasize the availability of paid Wi-Fi, beverage and specialty dining packages during days at sea, which are marketed to enhance your time away from shore and help plan shore excursions without losing connectivity.
10-night Greece, Turkey & Cyprus itinerary (day-by-day highlights)
The 10-night voyage follows a sequence designed to combine mainland and island experiences. Day 1 departs Athens (Piraeus) at 5:00 pm. Day 2 calls at Kavala (tendered 9:00 am–7:00 pm), a northeastern port with Ottoman-influenced architecture and coastal wetlands. Day 3 docks in Thessaloniki from 6:30 am–8:00 pm, offering Byzantine monuments like the White Tower. Day 4 is a relaxing day at sea aboard the Celebrity Infinity, ideal for spa visits and specialty dining. Day 5 brings you to Rhodes (7:00 am–4:00 pm) to walk medieval streets and the Palace of the Grand Masters. The sequence balances active sightseeing with restful sailing time so you can pace your trip.
10-night itinerary continued: Cyprus, Turkey and Cyclades
Continuing the 10-night route, Day 6 docks at Limassol, Cyprus (10:00 am–7:00 pm) where you can explore the Medieval Castle and coastal promenades tied to Aphrodite legends. Day 7 is another day at sea to recharge. Day 8 visits Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey (8:00 am–7:00 pm) to see archaeological treasures such as the Celsus Library. Day 9 goes ashore in Santorini (tendered 7:00 am–10:00 pm) for cliff-top villages, caldera views and volcanic wines. Day 10 is a stop in Mykonos (tendered 7:00 am–6:00 pm) known for whitewashed lanes and lively beaches, and Day 11 returns to Athens (Piraeus) arriving at 5:00 am.
7-night best of Greece itinerary
The 7-night alternative is concentrated and ideal for travelers who prefer a shorter timetable while still seeing major highlights. This option also departs Athens (Piraeus) at 5:00 pm. Typical port calls include Rhodes (10:00 am–7:00 pm), Ephesus (Kusadasi) (8:00 am–8:00 pm), and tendered visits to Mykonos (7:00 am–6:00 pm). The itinerary usually includes a full day in Thessaloniki (9:00 am–9:00 pm), one designated day at sea for onboard relaxation, and a final call at Santorini (tendered hours vary) before returning to Piraeus early on Day 8. This concentrated route makes it possible to experience diverse sights within a single week.
Onshore highlights and cultural must-sees
Across both options, must-see stops are clear: the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum in Athens; the medieval Old Town and Lindos in Rhodes; the ancient theatre and Byzantine churches of Thessaloniki; UNESCO-listed Ephesus with the Celsus Library; the sunset views of Santorini; and the cosmopolitan beaches and alleys of Mykonos. Port call windows are provided to optimize time ashore, so consider pre-booking guided tours if you want a focused history- or photography-centered visit. Local gastronomy often blends sea-fresh produce and regional specialties, which enhances every stop.
Making the most of days at sea
Days at sea are opportunities to unwind and sample onboard offerings: poolside relaxation, spa treatments, specialty restaurants, and entertainment programs. For travelers who value connectivity, note that Wi-Fi and beverage packages are available for purchase to support remote needs or to keep the family connected. Use these sailing days to plan shore excursions, rest between busy port days, or enjoy the ship’s amenities—your chosen balance between activity and downtime will shape the rhythm of the cruise experience.