Steps of Paul - Cruising the Eastern Mediterranean

October 14, 2023

8 Days | 7 Cities | 2 Countries

MS Celestyal Crystal

Overview

Join us on a mesmerizing voyage to discover the romance and the mystery of the Eastern Mediterranean as we follow in the footsteps of St. Paul the Apostle. As we journey through the emerald waters of the sun-soaked Cyclades and the stunning coastline of Turkey, this wonderful 7-night adventure invites you to explore iconic landmarks, savor authentic cuisine, and discover the trials and tribulations of St. Paul’s epic journey to the Eastern Mediterranean region.

As you explore the captivating coastal towns and discover charming Byzantine monuments you will learn about how St. Paul’s controversial ideas sparked riots and cast him into prison. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to visit famous landmarks including the Hagia Sophia, the Holy Grotto of the Apocalypse, the Faustina Baths of Miletus, and ancient Ephesus, the best-preserved historical site in the Eastern Med.

This cruise is not exclusive to Teeming River Cruises. Teeming River Cruises is partnering with Celestyal Cruises The cruise will be booked with Celestyal as our provider and Teeming River Cruises will assist in setting up your cruise details

Important: Cabin selection is by category, specific cabins selected will be honored if possible.

Itinerary

Date
Port
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Arrival:
Depart: 4:00 pm

Your fascinating 7-night Steps of St. Paul journey begins in the magical city of Athens. The Greek capital is one of the oldest cities in the world and home to the iconic landmark of the Acropolis. Take your time to discover the heritage, history, and culture that is firmly embedded in the heart of this captivating modern metropolis before joining us onboard as we head for Thessaloniki.

Arrival:
Depart: 8:00 pm

Following the path of St. Paul’s Second Missionary in Europe, leads you beyond the imposing Byzantine walls that guard the sophisticated port city of Thessaloniki. The beguiling architecture and meandering cobblestone streets are a pleasure to explore, topped only by the captivating site of the biblical city Berroia, known today as Veria. Join your expert guide to hear all about St. Paul’s tribulations as he tried to win over the noble Jews that lived here.

Arrival:
Depart: 4:00 pm

The seaport resort of Kavala perched on the slopes of Mt Symvolo offers spectacular panoramic views. It was here that St. Paul baptized the first Greek and European Christian convert, Lydia, and gave his first sermon. Visit the open-air baptistery, the monument that honors that Saint, and the prison ruins where he was held captive with St Silas, or join the specialist guide for a fascinating excursion to Neapolis and Philippi.

Arrival:
Depart: 8:00 pm

The vibrant city of Istanbul straddles the continents of Europe and Asia via the Bosphorus Strait. Here you can visit the lavish Byzantine and Imperial mosques which pierce Istanbul’s skyline with their towering minarets. The iconic Sultanahmet (Blue) mosque, the Romanesque Hippodrome, Topkapi Palace, and the world-famous Church of Hagia Sophia are just a few of the enigmatic attractions to admire.

Arrival:
Depart: 8:00 pm

Snaking its way along the beautiful coastline of Turkey’s seafront city of Dikili is a lush landscape of green forestry and expansive golden sands. Sparkling crystalline turquoise waters complete the captivating scenery. Here you have the opportunity to visit the Ancient Pergamon and the ancient Acropolis. The remains of the healing temple of Asklepion is the final stop of the day.

Arrival:
Depart: 11:30 pm

In Turkey’s picturesque seaside resort of Kusadasi, St. Paul wrote a letter to the Ephesians and preached at the Great Theatre of Ephesus. The second-largest city of the Roman Empire is also the home of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World – the Temple of Artemis. You will learn about this and more on our complimentary tour to ancient Ephesus and the city of Miletus.

Arrival:
Depart: 6:30 pm

Patmos is the smallest of the Greek Dodecanese islands and also its most spiritual. The tranquil island is famously known for being the location where John the Apostle experienced the vision that inspired the Book of Revelations. The last remaining disciple was banished to Patmos by Rome. Follow in the footsteps of pilgrims to St John’s Monastery and the Holy Grotto of the Apocalypse.

Arrival: 7:00 am
Depart:

We arrive back in the Greek capital of Athens early, giving the entire day to do as you please in the beating heart of Greece. However, you don’t have to leave us just yet. Our expert guides are waiting to escort you on a mesmerizing trip to either the ancient Corinth and Bema of St Paul or show you the highlights of the ancient Acropolis.

Deck Plans

Cabin Options

Your cruise will take place on the MS Celestyal Crystal. To learn more about this ship, click here.

Availability & Pricing

Prices per person based on double occupancy

Reserve Your Cabin

Suite

Suite ~ $0/$0 night
Booked

Junior Balcony Suite

SBJ ~ $0/$0 night
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SBJ ~ $0/$0 night
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Interior Staterooms

IA ~ $0/$0 night
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IA ~ $0/$0 night
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IB ~ $0/$0 night
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IB ~ $0/$0 night
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IC ~ $0/$0 night
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IC ~ $0/$0 night
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Grand Suite

SG ~ $0/$0 night
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Exterior Staterooms

XB ~ $0/$0 night
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XB ~ $0/$0 night
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XD ~ $0/$0 night
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XD ~ $0/$0 night
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XBO ~ $1,383/$198 night
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XBO ~ $1,383/$198 night
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XA ~ $1,474/$211 night
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XA ~ $1,474/$211 night
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XC ~ $1,565/$224 night
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XC ~ $1,565/$224 night
Booked

Balcony Suite

SB ~ $0/$0 night
Booked

What's Included in the Cruise

Highlights and Notes

Your perfect cruise is in your hands. With endless options available to make your trip truly yours, from excursions to dining, and everything in between, it’s never been easier to get the most out of your Celestyal getaway.  

WHAT’S INCLUDED:

Inclusive:

This fare includes:

  • Complementary dining
  • Onboard entertainment
  • Daily activities
  • Specially selected meal drinks
  • Complimentary $80 shore excursion discount

Enhance: *Additional fee

This fare includes:

  • Complimentary dining
  • Onboard entertainment
  • Daily activities
  • Premium drinks package
  • Complimentary $160 shore excursion discount
  • One hour of Wi-Fi access
  • 25% specialty dining discount
  • Upgrade drinks package from €17 a day (approx $17.58 USD)