European Cruise?

[jott3]

Has anyone ever done a European cruise? If so, what line/ship? Where did you go? How was it? Thanks!

 

[jgalecpa]

DW and I went on a Med cruise in 2000.

It left Athens, went to Mykonos, Santori and Patmos in the greek Islands, went to Ephasus/Kusadasi in Turkey Scicily and Rome in Italy.

The line was the Royal Olympic Line.

We loved the trip. Had ttwo nights before and one night after in Athens. Truly magical places. Great Bargains.

The ship was so-so. A bit older and small. The Triton. The size was a plus as we got to traverse the Corinithian canal. Very european clientele, only about 20% English speaking cruisers (lots of Smokers). Food was good, but definitely European. Decent Casino

The service was fine, and we got to sit at the Captains table one night where I had the best filet mignon I've ever tasted. Unfortunately we hit a rough spot, so some of the weaker sailors had trouble that night.

We booked the cruise with Brendan cruises and had a fabulous 4-Star hotel in Athens overlooking the Parthenon. It even had part of the old athenian wall in the basement.

We saved almost $1,200 by having our extra days in athens rather than Rome, and loved greece. Rome only so-so. (But what can you really tell in one day).

There are MANY great lines in this region (BUT be aware of the 2004 olympics in Athens may really make next summer a problem).

I would recommend a Greek Cruises to anyone. History buffs will love it, frugal people will love it (Full meal with drinks, appetizers, entrees, backlava at an outdoor cafe in the Plaka at the foot of the Acropolis $25 for two. I kid you knot.)

My TA said Greece was the most romantic place she had ever been, and she was right.

Great shopping, unbelievable sightseeing, and no hotter than the east coast of the USA durng the summer.

Jim




The line has a variety of age ships, so

 

[adambreakey]

I have to agree about Greece being a great destination. Any European cruise that does not include it will be missing something. I lived just south of the Plaka district in Athens for about 3 months a few years ago and what Jim says is true. The food is great, and very affordable.

Dont miss Athens, Mykonos or Crete (if you can get to it) All of them are worth the stop... but my favorite place in Greece is Delphi - probably the most beautiful place I have been to.

adamb