Yachting Ancient Greece and Turkey via the Corinth Canal

Sail, savor, repeat… Wander beyond the waves

Sept 6-16, 2027

Some journeys are measured in miles; this one is measured in flavors. Step aboard our new eight-day cruise vacation that’s as much about your plate as what’s outside your window, where the Aegean Sea glitters and every port promises another tale. From the ancient ruins of Delphi to the minarets of Istanbul, each port is wildly different. It’s a blur of colors and flavors. Haggle for spices in a Turkish bazaar, photograph the castles of Bodrum, marvel at the whitewashed cliffs of Santorini, visit the sacred sanctuary of Apollo, and swim at the beaches of Mykonos and trendy Lemnos. You may have been to some of these places before, but not like this. Travel & Leisure rates this the best small-ship cruise in the Mediterranean as we sail over the Aegean, scenic Dardanelles, and Sea of Marmara.

What makes this extraordinary?

Sail with a Chef – this is an innovative, special James Beard Foundation culinary cruise, 180° from the ordinary! Join award-winning chef Cara Tobin for culinary surprises like a Turkish market tour to shop for local ingredients, cooking demonstrations, wine and spirits tastings, and exclusive menus available only on our cruise… It’s like a movable feast.

Squeeze through the Corinth Canal – there’s a hush as we glide over turquoise waters into a breathtaking canal just 70 feet wide, with sheer limestone cliffs soaring on each side – impossibly narrow, only for the smallest ships. Everyone heads to the railings with cameras ready. Spot locals waving at you from the bridges above. It’s an engineering marvel—a shortcut that saved ancient sailors days of treacherous sailing around the Peloponnese. This region pulses with history, from Saint Paul and Nero to when it opened in 1893. I’ll never forget it. It’s a rare and thrilling passage!

Evening in Ephesus – after a tour of this UNESCO site and the crowds disperse, experience a once-in-a-lifetime exclusive event for Windstar guests only! Enjoy a five-course, white-glove-service dinner under the stars, accompanied by classical music, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Odeon.

The Star Legend makes you feel at home with a crew who remembers your name. She is intimate, polished yet casual, with relaxing vibes in the lap of luxury. Deanna knows these ports well and is over the moon to lead you, and August is a perfect time to go. Only 14 cabins are blocked a year in advance with special pricing, so don’t miss the boat.

This is more than just ticking off different ports of call. It’s about moments you’ll talk about for years to come. There is no other cruise like it. This is the Joy of Cruising!

Hidden Ports and Friendly Faces: What Sets Star Legend Apart
The magic of Star Legend is in the places it can go—slipping into tucked-away harbors and hidden coves where the big ships simply don’t fit. On board, things are relaxed but polished, with thoughtful details like complimentary water sports right off the back deck and a crew that makes you feel like a friend, not just another name on the manifest. If you want a cruise that’s as much about discovery as it is about comfort, you’ll find it here.  With a capacity of only 312 guests, this elegant vessel provides a sophisticated atmosphere and personalized attention to every detail. Following an extensive multimillion-dollar renovation, the ship now features expanded suites, upgraded dining venues, a beautiful new spa and fitness center. Each day, you’ll have fabulous shore tours to choose from in each port of call.

I N C L U D E D S TA T E R O O M / S U I T E A M E N I T I E S :

• Star Pride, Star Breeze, and Star Legend suites are all queen beds

• Owner’s Suites and Classic Suites feature private verandas

• Balcony Suites feature French-style balconies

• Complimentary fresh fruit basket

• Cotton waffle robes

• L’Occitane en Provence bath toiletries

• Lighted make-up mirror and hair dryer

• Personal safe

• Direct-dial ship-to-shore telephones (additional charge)

• Beverage mini-bar refrigerator (additional charge)

• Satellite flat screen TV/DVD with movies, TV, News, and Music options

• Individually controlled temperature dial

• Nightly turn-down service

I N C L U D E D S H I P B O A R D D I N I N G & R E C E P T I O N S :

• Breakfast, lunch & dinner served daily

• Open single seating dining for all meals

• World-class gourmet cuisine served in AmphorA Restaurant

• Indoor/Outdoor Veranda Cafe serving breakfast & lunch

• Alternative dining in Cuadro 44 – contemporary bistro with modern and inventive Spanish cuisine

• Al fresco dining in Candles & Star Grill

• 24-hour complimentary room service

• Afternoon snacks daily, except on embarkation day

• Captain’s Welcome Aboard cocktail reception

• AFS private cocktail party

• Deck BBQ under the stars (itinerary and weather dependent, may not be feasible on cruises embarking/debarking in US

• waters)

I N C L U D E D S H I P B O A R D S E R V I C E S & A M E N I T I E S :

• Complimentary soft beverages including: bottled water, sparkling water, sodas, fresh juices, fruit smoothies, tea, coffee,

• cappuccinos, lattes, mochas and espresso

• Outdoor swimming pool and Jacuzzi

• Gym equipment: Cybex weights system, assorted free weights, two treadmills, two bikes, workout mats and benches

• Aft sports platform (marina), equipment includes complimentary snorkel gear, paddleboards, 1-2 person kayaks, and

• water mats

• Bridge open to all guests while ship is sailing

• Live music in lounge

  Local entertainment (subject to itinerary/availability)

  Library stocked with DVDs, CDs, books, and board games

Aegean Odyssey: From Classical Ruins to Island Sunsets

Sept 6 – Fly from the USA to Athens.

Dozens of airlines to choose. For any cruise, always fly in at least a day early. We know AFS’ers love to extend pre- or post-cruise, so we are presenting cruise only this time. Consider one or two nights starting in Athens and perhaps a day in Istanbul at the trip's end if you like. Deanna leads this one and has great ideas that she will share with you once we close the trip. And we’ll be sending you details and trip tips.

Sept 8 – Athens Unveiled: From the Acropolis to the Aegean
Step into the heartbeat of Greece as you embark your ship in Piraeus, where the city’s hum never quite fades, and the blue of the Aegean beckons just beyond the port. Hop the metro and, in a blink, you’re standing beneath the Acropolis—marble columns blazing against the sky, history practically humming underfoot. Lose yourself in the tangled lanes of Plaka, where every corner promises another taverna, another souvenir, another story. For a quieter slice of Athens, duck into the Archaeological Museum in Piraeus before winding down at the bustling marina with a strong Greek coffee and a front-row seat to the city’s comings and goings. Before you leave, don’t forget a plate of just-caught seafood at a harbor-side table—the salty air is your reminder you’re in the right place at the right time. Embarkation starts at 1 PM.

Sept 9 – Squeezing Through History: The Corinth Canal and Mystical Delphi
Today brings a true marvel: cruising through the Corinth Canal, a feat of engineering that never fails to impress. Stand on deck as your ship threads the needle between sheer limestone walls, so close you’re tempted to reach out and brush the centuries-old stone. The canal’s narrow passage and echoing horn blasts are less about activities and more about witnessing something rare and raw: history carved straight into the land.  (Subject to water conditions.)

Oracle’s Echo: Delphi and Itea’s Waterfront Charms
Delphi is the most famous religious sanctuary and Oracle of the ancient world that is filled with archaeological wonders and Greek mythology from Apollo to Zeus. Greeks considered it “the navel of the world,” literally the center of the Earth. 

Itea awaits, gateway to the legendary sanctuary of Delphi. A winding drive carries you up the mountain, where ancient ruins and sweeping valley views conspire to make the world feel bigger and smaller all at once. Wander the Sacred Way, channel the pilgrims of old, and let the Delphi Archaeological Museum’s treasures—like the gleaming Charioteer—draw you deeper into the myth. Back in Itea, the waterfront promenade is made for lazy strolls and sweet treats. Grab a baklava and a seaside coffee, maybe even a quick dip in the impossibly clear waters, before heading back wiser—and maybe a little more enchanted—than when you arrived.

Sept 10 – Life at Sea: The Star Legend Experience
A day at sea aboard the Star Legend is less about schedules and more about settling in. With just over 200 guests, it feels more like a chic private yacht than a cruise ship. Here, the crew remembers your name—and your favorite drink. Suites come with big windows or private balconies, so you can watch the sunrise with your morning coffee in total comfort. Dining surprises, too—linger over a multi-course dinner at Amphora, unwind at the spa, splash off the marina platform for water fun, cooking classes, and so much more.

Sept 11 – Santorini in Living Color: Cliff-top Views and Sunsets to Remember
Santorini doesn’t just live up to the postcard hype—it blows right past it. Ride the cable car up from the port into Fira’s maze of whitewashed lanes, and don’t forget to snap those blue-domed church photos in Oia (they really are that blue). Sample a local wine with a caldera view, and if you’re a history buff, don’t skip the ancient ruins of Akrotiri—the “Minoan Pompeii.” Make time for tomato fritters and creamy Greek yogurt at a village taverna, and if you can, squeeze in a swim at a black-sand beach before the ship calls you back.
 

Sept 12 – Bodrum’s Balancing Act: Castles, Cafés, and the Aegean Breezes
Bodrum is where ancient wonders and holiday vibes collide. Start with the Castle of St. Peter, home to a world-class Museum of Underwater Archaeology, then lose yourself in the old town’s narrow lanes, where bougainvillea spills across whitewashed walls. Sip Turkish coffee at a seaside café, watch the yachts come and go, or just stretch out on a sun-warmed beach. The bazaar is your go-to for ceramics and spices—bring a little of Bodrum home with you.

Sept 13 – Echoes of Ephesus: Ancient Marvels and Modern Delights in Kusadasi
Kusadasi is your jump-off to Ephesus, a city where ancient stones still speak—don’t miss the Library of Celsus or the grand amphitheater. Back in town, stroll the waterfront promenade, or duck into the mega bazaar for Turkish delights and textiles – my favorite place to shop. Recharge with a glass of çay at a café, or take a dip at Ladies Beach just down the road. If there’s time, the hilltop fortress delivers sweeping Aegean views.

Complimentary Windstar Destination Discovery Event
Evening in Ephesus under the stars!
Tonight, an exclusive: a five-course dinner under the stars, white-glove service, and live music from the Aegean Chamber Orchestra—all against the haunting backdrop of the Odeon in Ephesus. Savor every detail of this once-in-a-lifetime night, reserved only for Windstar guests.
 

Sept 14 – Mykonos: Where Every Street is a Story
Wake up this morning to the postcard-like scene of Mykonos, the classic Greek island dotted with hundreds of whitewashed churches and thatched-roof windmills, and a harbor bobbing with fishing boats and luxurious private yachts. You can opt for a scenic ferry ride that takes you back to sixth century BC to the tiny island of Dionne, a UNESCO site and birthplace of Apollo.

Mykonos is everyone’s favorite for pure island energy. Get lost in the whitewashed lanes of Chora, where every twist reveals a new boutique or café. The windmills are must-sees, especially at sunset. Lunch in Little Venice is a highlight—waves nearly at your feet, the whole scene straight from a dream. For a swim, hit the golden sands of Platis Gialos or Psarou. Don’t miss Panagia Paraportiani, the island’s famously quirky church. By sundown, you’ll know why Mykonos never loses its allure.
 

Sept 15 – Lemnos Unplugged: Castles, Cafés, and Sunsets in Myrina
Lemnos is Greece, unplugged. Here is a delightful, off the beaten path Island with wild mountainous geology and large, uncrowded Sandy beaches. Windsurfing is popular here. Sites to see include the medieval castle of Myrina, ancient Kalvarios and the legendary cage of Philoctetes. Climb up to the medieval Castle in Myrina for sweeping views, then stroll the harbor, where fishing boats and seaside cafés set the pace. The Archaeological Museum offers a crash course in the island’s past, while Romeikos Gialos Beach is just right for a lazy swim. Sample kalathaki cheese at a taverna, then watch the sunset from the old stone quay—pure Lemnos magic.
 

Sept 16 – Istanbul: Where Continents and Centuries Meet
Disembark at 8 AM, flights home no earlier than 1 PM. If you can, stay a little longer—there’s nowhere like Istanbul. Marvel at the soaring domes of Hagia Sophia, then stroll to the Blue Mosque just steps away. Get gloriously lost in the Grand Bazaar, or cross the Bosphorus by ferry for city views you’ll never forget. Recharge with Turkish tea in Gulhane Park, and as the city lights flicker across the Golden Horn, grab a simit and savor the end of your odyssey.