Athens to Istanbul Cruise
Aboard Ponant’s Le Jacques Cartier

August 2-9, 2022

7 Nights/8 Days

from $4,398 per person

Limited to 184 Guests

Discover the beauty and mythology of the Greek Islands and Turkey

Source invites you to step aboard your private yacht and join us for the voyage of a lifetime. Discover the beauty and mythology of the Greek Islands and Turkey on a spectacular voyage from Athens to Istanbul aboard Ponant’s luxurious brand-new yacht, Le Jacques Cartier. We’ve customized this private LGBTQ+ charter to include the hidden harbors of Spetses, Paros and Limnos as well as the iconic islands of Mykonos and Santorini. Lose yourself in the labyrinths of Mykonos, where we’ll spend the night, and enjoy the world- famous gay beaches, vibrant nightlife, and shopping.

Sailing into Santorini will take your breath away as you witness multicolored cliffs soaring above a caldera and the iconic rooftops in shades of cerulean blue. When you’re ready to relax, retreat to the sanctuary of your spacious stateroom, savor inspired cuisine and pamper yourself at the spa. You’ll awaken your inner explorer as you dwell, if only for a short time, in the land of the gods.

CRUISE HIGHLIGHTS & AMENITIES:

 

  • Cocktails at the Blue Eye Underwater Lounge
  • Experience the Mamma Mia Island of Skopelos
  • Customized shore excursions throughout the voyage
  • Jackie O’s at Super Paradise Beach
  • Overnight in Mykonos and Santorini
  • Discover the ancient ruins of Akrotiri
  • Enjoy theme parties, afternoon t-dances and nightly entertainment
  • Take dips in the on-board pool and enjoy water activities from the ship’s
    marina
  • Enjoy complimentary cocktails, wine and non-alcoholic drinks throughout
    the voyage
  • Explore Delos, birthplace of Apollo and a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Enrich yourself with yoga, fitness and spa activities at sea
  • Extend your stay in Istanbul & Cappadocia

Itinerary

AUG 2

Athens

Athens is the seat of democracy, site of the Acropolis, and home to world-class museums. You will be enchanted by the rocky plateau presided by its monuments listed as UNESCO World Heritage. In the city below, you can visit some of the liveliest districts in Athens: Plaka, with its maze of colorful streets, and where, in the evenings the drifting aroma of moussaka and garlic prawns will tickle your taste buds. The National Archaeological Museum and the Cycladic Art Museum are also some of the city’s key attractions and allow visitors to discover Athens’ cultural past.

 Departure: 7:00 pm

AUG 3

Spetses

Pearl of the Saronic Islands, chic and elegant Spetses, the “island of jasmin” is one of the popular holiday destinations for Athenian high society. The elite and lovers of sailing come together in the summer or during a long weekend to make the most of this charming and lively little port and its pristine environment.

There are no motorized vehicles on the island, one can only travel around Spetses on foot, by carriage or by bike. The lavish Poseidonion, the oldest luxury hotel in Greece, built in 1914 on the model of the Carlton or the Negresco, and the magnificent homes of the shipowners, dating from the 18th century, are testimony to the incredible destiny of this tiny island.

Arrival 2:00 am/Departure 5:00 pm

AUG 4

Mykonos

Enjoy a sunrise sail into white and blue Mykonos. Explore Delos, the mythical birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. An iconic gay travel mecca, Mykonos has long been a favorite for the rich and famous. This magical island has it all: beautiful people, vibrant nightlife, world-class dining, and pristine beaches. Best of all, we’ll be spending the night, so you have plenty of time to enjoy everything Mykonos has to offer!

Arrival 7:00 am/Overnight/Departure: 5:00 am

AUG 5

Santorini

Sailing in the waters of Santorini caldera is breathtaking. The siren call of
Santorini captivates by blue-domed churches and Minoan ruins at Akrotiri. From the volcanic beaches to the stepped streets leading up to constellation-filled skies, the island here is pure magic. The colorful whites, greys, reds of the volcanic rocks, the blue of the Aegean Sea, and the immaculate perched villages form a unique and marvelous spectacle. While some believe that Santorini is the remnant of the lost civilization of Atlantis, we simply call it paradise.

Arrival 12:00 pm/Departure 3:45 am

AUG 6

Paros

The island of Paros is a large, hilly, and fertile island, famous for its white marble. Along the quays of Parikia, its main town, you’ll see Byzantine churches and neoclassical buildings. To make the most of the turquoise waters, you can stopover in Naoussa. This little fishing port is bounded by a very beautiful cove.

Arrival 10:00 am/Departure 6:00 pm

AUG 7

Skopelos

Though famed for its starring role in the 2008 film Mamma Mia!, Skopelos has managed to hang on to its low-key charm. Pine forests, olive grows, rippling vineyards, and orchards of plums and almonds carpet this handsome island. Its sheltered southeast coast harbors a string of sand-and-pebble beaches, while the Northwest coast’s high jagged cliffs are exposed to the elements. We highly recommend an ABBA playlist to accompany you on this charming island.

Arrival 10:00 am/Departure 11:59 pm

AUG 8

Limnos

Limnos is the perfect Greek Island for a swim stop on the way to Istanbul! A volcanic island located near the Dardanelles Strait, Limnos was venerated during Antiquity. Legend has it that Hephaestus, the god of fire, had his forge here.

Now one of Greece’s major seaside resorts, Limnos offers its visitors many superb sandy beaches. It is also home to several archaeological sites, such as the towers of Kastro, an ancient acropolis fortified by the Venetians, or the neolithic site of Poliochni and the city of Hephaestia. Renowned for its olives, fruits, wheat and honey, and for the authenticity of its inhabitants, Limnos is also known for the quality of its restaurants, ideal for tasting typical Greek dishes.

Arrival 8:00 am/Departure 1:00 pm

AUG 8

Sailing the Dardanelles

The Dardanelles Strait is an emblematic, 61 km-long waterway connecting the Aegean Sea with the Sea of Marmara. It is strategic for controlling passage between the Mediterranean Sea and the Black Sea. Like the Bosporus, or Strait of Istanbul, it separates Europe from Asia. A surface current flows along it, while a more saline undercurrent flows in the opposite direction. Along the strait, you will be able to admire hilly landscapes and arid lowlands brightened by fields and groves of olive trees.

AUG 9

Istanbul

Located on the Bosphorus, Istanbul is one of the most beautiful of all Turkish cities. Named Byzantium when founded by the Greeks, and then Constantinople under the Roman Empire, this city is steeped in history and, for this reason, is a listed UNESCO World Heritage site. Located on Sultanahmet hill, the great Blue Mosque, the mysterious Hagia Sophia, and the vast Topkapi palace and its countless mosaics, dominate the Marmara Sea. In the Beyazit district, the Grand Bazaar allows to the discovery of elegant, covered passages. A little further away, the delicate aroma of loukoum and spices will draw the visitors’ attention at the Egyptian Bazaar.

Arrival 7:00 am

Extension

Electra Metropolis Athens

The “Electra Metropolis” is a new 5-star hotel in the heart of Athens. It is situated at the beginning of Mitropoleos Street next to Syntagma Square, the most famous square in Greece, and has been welcoming business travelers and holidaymakers to Athens since September 2016. This luxury lifestyle hotel is near many Athens tourist attractions.

This new jewel of Athens is founded on the values ​​of “Electra Hotels & Resorts”, and has 216 luxurious and fully equipped suites and rooms with views of the Acropolis and the old neighborhood of Plaka. There is also an impressive atrium in the center of the hotel which is surrounded by restaurants, cafes nearby.

The hotel also has a unique Roof Garden with a spectacular view of the Parthenon and the entire city. So, if you are wondering where to stay in Athens, Greece, or how to spend your Athens holidays, then the Electra Metropolis Hotel is definitely one of the best hotels to stay in Athens.

The following rates apply:

3 Nights Stay – July 30-August 2, 2022. Rates include Breakfast, taxes, Standard Wifi, and Transfers to the Ship

  • $580 per person based on Double Occupancy – Classic Rooms
  • $915 per person based on Double Occupancy – Deluxe Acropolis View Rooms
  • $1,350 per person based on Double Occupancy – Acropolis View Suites

2 Nights Stay – July 31-August 2, 2022. Rates include Breakfast, taxes, Standard Wifi, and Transfers to the Ship

  • $395 per person based on Double Occupancy – Classic Rooms
  • $615 per person based on Double Occupancy – Deluxe Acropolis View Rooms

1 Night Stay – August 1-2, 2022. Rates include Breakfast, taxes, Standard Wifi, and Transfers to the Ship

  • $205 per person based on Double Occupancy – Classic Rooms

To Reserve hotel packages, please email reservations@sourcejourneys.com which package option you would like. Room Rates are guaranteed and based on availability. Reservations require a $200 deposit per person. Room reservations can be canceled prior to June 02, 2022. Hotel Packages are non-refundable after June 02. Check-in time: 3 pm – Check-Out: 11 am.

Extend your journey by joining us on our Magic of Istanbul and Cappadocia adventure!

Source Events invites you to combine magical Cappadocia and Istanbul on this 4 nights/5 days extension.

The Source Ponant Experience

Ship

Le Jacques Cartier – Ponant

The Source Onboard Experience

Embarking on a Source-Ponant luxury expedition is to cruise with the finest in the industry. With sophisticated styling, innovative “green” technology, and welcoming, attentive service, Source is proud to premier Le Jacques Cartier, Ponant’s newest state-of-the-art Explorer Series yacht. This modern yacht feature a sleek design, just 92 staterooms and suites, and a highly experienced crew. The Source and Ponant crew are committed to providing attentive service, ensuring you have an exceptional voyage with memories you’ll always treasure.

A typical day aboard…

Because our cruises combine exploration, fun, enrichment, and elegance, we offer exceptional services worthy of the highest standards of luxury, whether it’s onboard or during excursions or outings.

 Days filled with possibility and new adventures…

Wake up aboard every day onboard your Source-Ponant voyage in a stateroom or suite with luxe amenities…luxury bedding, fully stocked minibar, Hermes french toiletries, and a private balcony. Enjoy breakfast a la carte in your room, on deck in the open air, or in our elegant gourmet restaurant with a decidedly French flair.

After breakfast, you may venture off the ship for sightseeing or a guided tour or indulge in the ship’s pleasures. Morning yoga, the fitness center, or a relax in the spa with massage, steam bath, or facial are ideal ways to stay connected with your source. Lunch as you choose…in the more formal setting of Le Restaurant Gastronomique, or perhaps staying ashore to sample the local fare in today’s port of call.

On Source-Ponant voyages, beverages, from soft drinks to house wine and spirits, are always complimentary. The afternoon gives you more options…create memorable moments at seaside tavernas and beaches…enjoy water activities such as kayaking and paddle-boarding from the ship’s innovative three-level marina platform. Chill out by the pool, take in a Source enrichment talk in the lounge, and gather with friends by the pool at sunset for T-dances with the eclectic sounds of our resident DJ.

Night time brings out the stars…

Enjoy cocktails with friends in Ponant’s groundbreaking Blue Eye, the first-ever multi-sensorial lounge – located beneath the water line – that allows you to see, hear, and virtually feel marine life in the deep blue sea!  Tonight, dine with new friends in your choice of restaurant, or sneak away for a romantic candlelit dinner, out on deck.

Dance under the stars at Source theme parties or be entertained by them at the Grand Salon or Le Theatre. Sing along to your favorite tunes at the piano bar.  Enjoy a film on the big screen.  And when it’s time to turn in, your bed will be turned down with a sweet treat. Throughout this Source-Ponant Voyage, you’ll experience fine dining with gourmet French cuisine, special entertainment, and the company of like-minded friends.

Pricing

KeyCabin ClassPriceAvailabilityBook Now
Owner's Suites-Deck 5$19,948 / personSOLD OUTCALL NOW!
Grand Deluxe Suites-Deck 6$17,638 / personSOLD OUTCALL NOW!
Prestige Suite-Deck 6$12,809 / personSOLD OUTCALL NOW!
Prestige Suite-Deck 5$12,598 / personSOLD OUTCALL NOW!
Privilege Suite-Deck 6$10,298 / personSOLD OUTCALL NOW!
Privilege Suite-Deck 5$9,989 / personSOLD OUTCALL NOW!
Deluxe Suite-Deck 6$7,298 / personSOLD OUTCALL NOW!
Deluxe Suite-Deck 5$6,998 / personSOLD OUTCALL NOW!
Deluxe Suite-Deck 4$6,698 / personSOLD OUTCALL NOW!
Deluxe Suite-Deck 3$6,398 / personSOLD OUTCALL NOW!
Prestige Stateroom-Deck 6$5,298 / personSOLD OUTCALL NOW!
Prestige Stateroom-Deck 5$4,998 / personSOLD OUTCALL NOW!
Prestige Stateroom-Deck 4$4,698 / personSOLD OUTCALL NOW!
Deluxe Stateroom-Deck 3$4,398 / personSOLD OUTCALL NOW!

Included in this Journey

  • All Deluxe Accommodations
  • All meals and snacks
  • Round-the-clock beer, wine, and top-shelf spirits, plus all non-alcoholic beverages including Stateroom minibar
  • 24 Hr Room service
  • Butler Service for Suites
  • Hermes bath amenities
  • Wi-Fi throughout the Ship
  • Source special entertainment

Not Included in this Journey

  • Port Fees of $360 per person
  • Prepaid Gratuities $130 per person
  • International or Domestic Airfares
  • Pre and post-cruise extensions
  • Spa services
  • Optional excursions
  • Onboard Laundry services

Please Note: A valid passport should have at least two blank visa pages and should be valid for at least six months beyond the return date. If imposed by the cruise line, there may be a $90 per passenger fuel surcharge fee. Non-US Passport holders may be required to secure a visa. Arrival Airport Athens (ATH) and Departure airport Istanbul (IST). Proof of COVID-19 vaccination will be required.