I am beginning to plan a Greek Isle. Cruise for either April or late June/early July. There will be three of us travelling and I would like any suggestions on which cruise lines to consider, which ports are must sees and any other suggestions/recommendations you might have. Thanks in advance! Hans

Hi Hans! You were very helpful to me re: my Australia questions so I'll try to be of help to you here. <BR> <BR>We sailed on Orient Lines to Greece and Turkey a couple of years ago. By far, the highlight of our trip was the portion in Turkey which, believe me, I didn't expect. The port of Kusadasi (Ephesus) was fabulous, the best ruins I've seen anywhere! Istanbul was also fascinating. I wish we had stayed for a couple more days. You can visit the Grand Bazaar, the mosques and Topaki Palace. <BR> <BR>The cruise we took started in Athens (one day there was enough) and also included stops in Mykonos, Delos, Santorini, Rhodes and Kusadasi ending up for a couple of days in Istanbul. The package included a couple of nights hotel in both Athens and Istanbul (the hotel in Istanbul was the best I've ever stayed in) <BR> <BR>We traveled in late October so Mykonos and Santorini were sort of sleepy, being as they are resort places. If you head to the resort type of islands, pick June instead of April. Santorini, viewed from the water, was breathtaking. <BR> <BR>Our favorite Greek port was Rhodes. We liked the medieval architecture and we took the boat's tour over to Lindos, a fortress on top of a mountain. <BR> <BR>I don't remember much about the cruise itself. I expect that means that it was fairly average in terms of food and service. I tend to select cruises based on ports, not amenities. <BR> <BR>Hope I've been helpful! Email direct if you have any questions.

Thanks for your help. I was trying to decide on ship or ports and I think you convinced me to be more concerned about the ports we visit. Thanks again! Hans

Hi, Hans - we also travelled with Orient Lines on the Marco Polo. Did a package with Maupintour which was marvellous as we were always first off the ship at each port. Last year the ship stopped at Crete which I think they have since eliminated. That was my favorite place. I found it fascinating and would love to go back there to spend more time. Spring is supposed to be beautiful at all the islands with the flowers blooming everywhere. It gets pretty crowded later. Have a great time!

Hi Hans, <BR> <BR>I've been on Greek Island cruises 3 times. All trips were with Epirotiki, who was sold a few years ago, I think to Carnival, so I can't recommend a specific cruiseline. The ruins at Ephesus are indeed spectacular and a don't miss port. Also, at Santorini I highly recommend getting a tour of Akrotiri, the bronze age excavation. I found this fascinating, and still had time to wander around Thira a little. If you are into the ancient ruins you will like Delos, which is a very small island with nothing but ruins on it. It is near to Mykonos. Sometimes the weather prevents landing there, so you might have better luck if you are travelling in June. Hydra is another favorite island. It is in some ways similar to Mykonos, with the small, white-washed villages, the interesting little shops and restaurants. But it is a little less trendy than Mykonos, and I really liked it. <BR> <BR>

Epirotiki is now Royal Olympic Cruise lines. I have taken 2 of their 4 day cruises and found them wonderful. If I am ever in that area again I will repeat.

<BR>Dear Hans, <BR> <BR>I am a travel agent and here is some advice. <BR> <BR>Check out First European Cruises. They have a new ship called the Mistral that is absolutely gorgeous and has a great itinerary. Also look into Royal Oylmpic's new Voyager coming out soon. Although I will not sail her until 2001, I love the itinerery. It ports not only in the Greek isles, you will tour the Egyptian pyramids, Jerusalem, Istanbul and Ephessos. Fast ship. <BR> <BR>Happy planning, Paul

Anyone taken this Seabourn itinerary: <BR> <BR>Istanbul,Despotiko,Navplion, Monemvasia, Aghios Nikalas, Mykonos, Athens? I haven't found much about it and we are taking this trip in April. Please email or post. Thanks.