Seabourn Encore - September 28, 2025

Once called Constantinople, the former capital of the Byzantine Empire is the only city in the world to straddle two continents: Europe and Asia. This is the Golden Horn, the door between East and West, and your first vision of its domes and minarets is unforgetable. Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Sultan treasures in Topkapi Palace await - as does the Grand Bazaar, laden with carpets, beaten brass and spices from afar.

On the Asian shore, guarding the Dardanelles, is the quiet Turkish port town of Canakkale. History enthusiasts will want to venture to legendary Troy. Canakkale's Archaeological Museum boasts exhibits originally belonging to Frank Calvert, aide to the discoverer of the lost city, Heinrich Schliemann. Visit the vast memorial at Galipoli Peninsula, site of the notorious World War I campaign. Be sure to sample the culinary delights of a meze, a spectacular array of Turkish hors d'oeuvres.

The largest Turkish seaport after Istanbul, its exports include cotton, tobacco, vegetables, manufactures, and carpets. The city suffered greatly from severe earthquakes in 1928 and 1939. It is a NATO command center for SE Europe. It is also the site of the Aegean Univ. and several museums, and was probably the birthplace of the poet Homer.

This island is known as the site of the apocalyptic Revelations of St. John the Divine, written here during his exile from the Roman Empire. The cave where he lived is near the site of the Monastery of the Apocalypse. The Monastery of St. John, built on one of the island's highest points, houses priceless icons and manuscripts in its Treasury.

Legend has it that Apollo blessed this isle with sunshine and beauty. True to the myths, the "Island of Roses" is rich in magnificent scenery and umbrella-lined beaches. Take an excursion to Lindos, where high on a hill rises an ancient acropolis dedicated to the goddess Athena. You will also want to see the medieval Old Town, once home to the Crusading Knights of St. John, and tour the Grand Master's Palace, an Italian restoration famed for its superb mosaic floors.

Spetsai Island figures prominently in modern Greek history after playing a pivotal role in the War for Independence. Surrounded by crystal-clear water and covered with verdant pine trees, Spetsai stands in contrast to most of the other Aegean Islands. The island features numerous inlets and coves for visitors to explore. In town tourists can visit many museums and points of cultural interest.

Piraeus is the seaport for Athens, the capital of western civilization, which boasts a fantastic mix of classical ruins and vivacious modern life. In a single day, you can climb the hill of the Acropolis to wonder at the Parthenon, join the lively Athenians in Constitution Square, and then find a welcoming taverna for some spirited bizouki music, plenty of ouzo to drink, and with luck, energetic Greek dancing.

Monemvassia means single entry - there is only one way in - through the gigantic iron doors. Throughout history this was the perfect place to live in since it was almost impossible to invade. Today as you walk through the narrow cobble stone paths you will find a lively marketplace full of cafes and restaurants, antique stores and shops full of handcrafted items and art.

Katakolon is your gateway to Olympia, where the ancient Greeks flocked every four years for more than a millennium to celebrate the sacred games dedicated to Zeus. Visit the ruins of the Sanctuary, with its athletic quadrangles, stadium-temples and treasuries; then browse in the modern Archaeological Museum, a treasure house of Archaic, Classical and Roman sculptures, including the famous Niki "Winged Victory."

Dubrovnik, a Croatian port, is considered the most beautiful city on the Dalmatian coast. Dubrovnik sits high on a cliff overlooking the sea, and is nestled in the shadow of Mount Srdj. The walls of the city are one of its landmarks, and many structures from the medieval era remain standing, despite the many battles fought in Dubrovnik throughout history.

A dazzling Mediterranean landscape, balmy climate, and illustrious history--these are some of the traits that make Hvar a vacationer's paradise. Hvar is home to the first public theater in Europe, as well as several of the greatest writers and philosophers of the Renaissance era. During the annual Holy Week, elaborate ceremonies are publicly enacted, representing religions from around the world.