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Tauck Alaska vacations combine sightseeing by land, ship, floatplane, paddlewheel boat, and vintage railway to fully experience the 49th state. This is the realm of bald eagles, grizzlies, orcas, alpine peaks, and glacier-carved fjords. Raft through an eagle preserve, walk through centuries-old towns, pan for gold, and meet totem pole carvers. Tauck Bridges family Alaska tour will take you on an adventure that you will never forget. Alaska cruises open your eyes and heart to the natural wonderland that surrounds you morning, noon, and night.
Tauck World Discovery:
Tauck's Hawaii features ocean-view rooms the finest oceanfront resorts on multiple islands for the ultimate Hawaiian experience! From Kauai's rainforests to Maui's waterfalls and the Big Island's dramatic volcanic landscapes, discover the uniqueness of the islands. Enjoy a special visit to Pearl Harbor, Waikiki Beach, an old whaling town, a working ranch, and a coffee farm, with luaus, cruises, and plenty of free time to enjoy one of the world's favorite tropical playgrounds!
Tauck World Discovery:
Tauck's New England tours take you to green mountain ridges with white village steeples, quintessential harbors with tall sailboat masts, and historical icons, city and countryside. Experience a breathtaking landscape, painted with bold impressionist colors, on Tauck's fall foliage tour.The region is rich in Colonial history, featuring quaint architecture, museums with costumed interpreters, and entertaining walking tours. Learn more about the patriots of Boston, the whalers of Nantucket, or the Pilgrims at Plymouth on our New England tours with accommodations in historic hotels and popular resorts.
Tauck World Discovery:
New England
So many choices – gracious antebellum plantations, formal gardens, warm beaches, Civil War battlefields, a
Victorian island, jazz in New Orleans, a capital capitol... Tauck's
Mid-America / Southern USA trips take you to places truly intertwined with all that defines America today. Together with filmmaker Ken Burns we crafted a
Civil War themed tour (Most Hallowed Ground), The Tauck Chicago Event in October 2013, and The Tauck Jazz Event in New Orleans. And make your plans early for our premiere sporting event in May 2014 – Run For Roses: The Kentucky Derby!
Tauck World Discovery:
South / Mid USA
Western USA travel features diverse landscapes from painted canyons
to inspiring national parks, ancient cliff dwellings, the Pacific Ocean,
vineyards and chic cities. Sightsee by floatplane, jeep, trolley,
horseback, sky gondola, narrow gauge railroad, jet boat... Stay at
historic lodges inside the great national parks and great hotels in the
heart of the cities.
Tauck World Discovery:
US West
Cultured, cosmopolitan cities combine with rugged coastal scenery and quaint fishing villages on these Eastern Canada tours. They take you from thundering Niagara Falls to peaceful island cruises, from chateau-style hotels to the weathered house that inspired Anne of Green Gables. Enjoy views from the world's tallest freestanding structure, or from the top of coastal bluffs along the Cabot Trail.
Tauck World Discovery:
Eastern Canada
This is a land of jagged snow-capped peaks, glaciers, waterfalls, alpine lakes, and a grandeur that is indescribable. Our Western Canada tours explore impressive national parks and stay in legendary mountain resorts, with unique ways to sightsee including Ice Explorer, floatplane, nostalgic train, ferry steamer, jet boat, or ski gondola.
Tauck World Discovery:
Western Canada Tours
This is the heart of Europe: alpine vistas in Switzerland, Germany and Austria; preserved medieval towns and castles along the lush Rhine and Danube waterways; imperial splendors in Vienna and Budapest; cafés, bistros, and bierstubes in villages off-the-beaten-path; and architectural triumphs in grand cities of Amsterdam, Berlin, Warsaw, Prague, Dubrovnik, and more. When you embark on Central and Eastern Europe travel days with Tauck, you go far beyond traditional sights to discover the a deep and rich cultural persona.
Tauck World Discovery:
Central & Eastern Europe
From the moving memorials at Omaha Beach to the glitz and glamour of the Côte d'Azur, Tauck's France tours combine insider expert insights with the cultural panache that defines all things Français. Tauck France tours explore colorful Provence, Loire chateaux, ancient abbeys, cobblestoned villages, Bordeaux and Côte du Rhone wine regions, the chic bouleverds of Paris, and more.
Tauck World Discovery:
Famous Irish castle-hotels and manor houses, the dramatic Cliffs of Moher, pastoral Cotswold landscapes, mystical Loch Lomond and of course vibrant London are just some of the many highlights of these Ireland and Great Britain tours. Escape to centuries past as you watch a Shakespearean performance at Stratford-upon-Avon or view the mysterious monoliths outside of Dublin; imagine yourself as royalty aboard first-class trains, steam yachts and river cruise ships.
Tauck World Discovery:
Great Britain & Ireland
The name "Iceland" belies the wondrous summertime landscapes you'll explore during this 7-night cruise... fishing villages where you'll get a glimpse of daily life along rugged shores... fjords ringed by emerald mountains... craggy cliffs blanketed with whimsical puffins and arctic terns... rainbow-hued waterfalls and steamy geysers... lakes teeming with nesting ducks... and a blue lagoon that welcomes bathers with healing waters. With so much to see and do, Iceland is not only one of the hottest new destinations for those in-the-know, it's also a very cool place to cruise with Tauck.
Tauck World Discovery:
Timeless treasures of a legendary land await you on Tauck's Italy tours. Travel from the sun-kissed hilltowns of Tuscany to the stunning Amalfi Coast, enjoying Tauck's do-it-all-for-you service, fine accommodations and special experiences you can't get on your own, like private, after-hours visits to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel – hallmarks of the best Italy tours.
Tauck World Discovery:
What do you envision as a perfect Mediterranean travel getaway? Little can compare to a small ship's approach in Bonifacio, Corsica... antiquities discovered in the gentle Sicilian countryside... the whitewashed villages of a Greek isle... the dramatic Amalfi coastline... the colorful contrasts where Europe meets Asia in Turkey... or the secrets behind the centuries-old city walls of Dubrovnik. Mediterranean travel with Tauck includes land journeys and cruises along the Adriatic and Aegean Seas, combining the relaxation of sailing with in-depth discovery via private excursions to the historical ruins of Ephesus, Carthage, Pompeii and Segesta and cultural meccas along the Spanish, French, Italian and Turkish Rivieras.
Tauck World Discovery:
Mediterranean & Turkey
Nordic legends and Viking tales come to life in Norway, Denmark, and Sweden. Viking ships and a folk museum depict early eras; medieval castles and well-preserved port towns illuminate the Middle Ages. In Russia, fortresses, palaces, and treasures of the Czars contrast with the Kremlin, Red Square, and an infamous bunker. Priceless masterpieces hang in The State Hermitage Museum; ballerinas twirl at the ballet; and onion-topped buildings command the skyline. In Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, there are medieval districts so well preserved that they are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Tauck World Discovery:
Scandinavia, Russia & Baltics
Step inside the grand Moorish palace of the Alhambra, gaze at treasures – inside and out – at the world renowned Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, follow pilgrim's footsteps on the path of St. James to Santiago de Compostela or stroll the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Sintra and Evora, and you will understand the historical, cultural and religious passion throughout these lands and carefully woven into a Portugal and Spain tour.
Tauck World Discovery:
Spain & Portugal
Tauck's Africa tours and safaris are compelling and intriguing, from the Great Pyramids to the savannahs of the Serengeti. Adventures include hot-air ballooning over African plains, cruising the River Nile, game drives in legendary game reserves, and extraordinary game drives in Botswana. From the Cape of Good Hope to Victoria Falls, spotting the "Big Five" in the Serengeti or Kruger National Park, a walk with young lions... a visit with the meerkats... a spice tour in Zanzibar... a wine-pairing dinner in the Cape Winelands... these Tauck journeys and safaris are the best in Africa tours today!
Tauck World Discovery:
Africa Tours
The ultimate Antarctica travel experience! Cruise aboard one of Tauck's newest luxe mega-yachts, Le Soléal or Le Boréal to the majestic ice-clad continent of Antarctica after spending two nights in Buenos Aires – an exciting 10-night expeditionary voyage with on-board naturalists, oceanographers and ornithologists. Floating castles of ice glisten in the warmth of the austral sun... glacial mountains rise from the sea, framed against a radiant sky... in an instant, a bright sun illuminates a floating regatta of ice formations... Explorers throughout the centuries have been mesmerized and captivated by the ice... Today, you are that Antarctic explorer.
Tauck World Discovery:
China offers a dynamic feast of sights and sensations. Willowed landscapes, tranquil gardens, majestic rivers, fabled monuments and imperial pavilions of red and gold stand as poignant symbols of an enduring and rich historical legacy. Countryside villages and bustling cities deftly combine time-honored traditions with the ever-quickening pace of today's modern times. And the great Yangtze River, home to some of China's most priceless cultural treasures, is poised to change the course of history in this 21st century.
Tauck World Discovery:
One of the world's most diverse countries, India is an incredible array of landscapes, languages, cultures and lifestyles as well as a fascinating complex of beliefs and customs. A visit reveals a nation of many contrasts, from opulent palace hotels, shimmering white marbeled monuments like the Taj Mahal and ancient fairy-tale cities of richly-decorated courtyards, fountains and frescoed galleries... to streets brimming with old traditions.
Tauck World Discovery:
An island nation of gentle beauty boasts an intriguing mix of ancient and present day, embracing a revolution of modern technology yet remaining staunchly immersed in age-old traditions and rituals. Experiencing rich cultural traditions and venerable Japanese customs are an intricate part of Tauck's Japan tour, where age-old cultures and lifestyles flourish, inspiring the spirit as well as the senses. Get a unique look at Japan, yesterday and today.
Tauck World Discovery:
Southeast Asia is a feast for the senses – the vibrant colors, fragrance of incense and spices, sounds of daily life in the streets, and the taste of fabulous food. It is a cultural treat sunrise to sunset. Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand have shared the same tropical peninsula for centuries, but for all their similarities, each country offers a diverse tapestry of art, culture and history uniquely their own. Unique experiences, from a visit to a hill tribe village to an elephant trek, provide an in-depth look at this complex cultural mosaic.
Tauck World Discovery:
South East Asia
Choose among two-week and three-week Down Under tours that cover distances primarily by cruise ship or private charter flights, but also include jet boat, tramcar, helicopter, catamaran and sky gondola rides. With joint New Zealand and Australia travel agendas, see glaciers, geysers, fiords, outback, reefs, koalas, kiwis, historic districts, notable architecture, and native culture.
Tauck World Discovery:
Australia Travel and New Zealand
Discover one of the richest ecotourism destinations in the world on an adventurious, active Tauck Central America tour or cruise. You'll go off-the-beaten-path as you explore the tropical rainforests, dry forests, freshwater wetlands, islands, beaches and lush jungles of Costa Rica and Panama, where ecological biodiversity, exotic wildlife, and cultural national treasures are found.
Tauck World Discovery:
Central America
South America is one of the most sought-after destinations for today's sophisticated travelers – vast cultural diversity and cosmopolitan pleasures from Rio de Janeiro to Buenos Aires, Santiago and Lima; breathtaking beauty from Iguazú Falls to Patagonia and the Andes; unique cultural heritages created by influences from destinations the world over; and the Galápagos Islands, home to species found nowhere else in the world. Tauck's South America travel adventures ignite the senses and satisfy the soul.
Tauck World Discovery:
South America
Explore ancient Egypt's treasures, from the Pyramids to the magnificent temples to the tombs of the pharaohs, and cruise along the River Nile with Tauck's expert Egyptologists. Discover the diverse cultures and traditions that have shaped Israel since antiquity and continue to define life today. Travel along Jordan's historic King's Highway from the shores of the Dead Sea to astounding Petra. Tauck combines authentic cultural connections, insights from local experts, our signature sightseeing and memorable experiences for our guests only to ensure that each journey is enriching and inspiring.
Tauck World Discovery:
Middle East
Just 90 miles from the Florida Keys and unlike anyplace else in the Americas, Cuba has been "close to home but far away" for decades. But now you can meet face-to-face with Cuban residents from different professions – artists, musicians, students, educators, farmers, artisans, entrepreneurs, community leaders and more – through Tauck's People-to-People educational exchange travel to Cuba. Share thoughts, gain knowledge, and connect with the country's deep cultural heritage – rich in historic architecture, music, art and Latin and Afro-Cuban traditions.
Tauck World Discovery:
Tauck's Turkey and Greece tour and cruise explores Athens and Istanbul, and sails through the Aegean aboard Wind Star, a motor-sailing yacht that hosts just 148 guests. See the best of the ancient world, from the Parthenon to the Blue Mosque, plus museums brimming with art and other treasures. Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites including the Acropolis in Athens, Mycenae, Delos and the medieval city of Rhodes. Examine ancient ruins and attend a special dinner with live music at the famous library in legendary Ephesus, stroll the atmospheric town of Fira, and explore Istanbul's historic district, the Spice Bazaar and ornate palaces and mosques.
Our knowledgeable travel specialists are here to answer your questions and help book your next trip - call us today at
Monday – Friday: 8:00am – 9:30pm, EST
Saturday: 9:00am – 5:00pm, EST
Sunday: 12:00 Noon – 5:00pm, EST
From South Africa: 0800-990-476
From other countries: Contact Tauck in the U.S. at (203) 899-6500
Please fill in the form below to view your free Tauck eBrochure!
Arrive in Istanbul
Tour begins: 6:00 PM InterContinental Istanbul, Turkey. Your Turkey and Greece tour includes a transfer from Istanbul's Ataturk International Airport to the InterContinental Istanbul. Your hotel boasts beautiful views of the Bosphorus. Meet fellow travelers at the welcome reception and dinner.
InterContinental Istanbul
Istanbul's Topkapi Palace & other sights
Istanbul is truly the crossroads of Europe and Asia, and the center of Turkish history and culture. Begin the day with a visit to exotic Topkapi Palace, residence of the sultans and the seat of power for the Ottoman Empire for 400 years; during your tour, you'll see the legendary "Harem," along with religious relics and other priceless treasures within the palace's museums. After lunch, explore Sehzade Kulliyesi, an ornate 16th-century Ottoman imperial mosque complex. Dine on traditional Turkish fare tonight, enjoying the authentic ambiance of a 19th-century architectural landmark overlooking the Bosphorus.
The Hagia Sophia & Istanbul's Grand Bazaar
Guided sightseeing today includes the vast underground Basilica Cistern and one of the world's true architectural gems – beautiful Hagia Sophia, a Byzantine masterpiece. First constructed in 537 AD and destroyed, rebuilt and modified throughout the centuries, this cathedral reigned for almost 1,000 years as the largest Christian church in the world, then became a mosque, and is now a Turkish national museum; it astounds with multicolored tiles, mosaics and frescoes. Stroll through the 4,000 shops in the Grand (Covered) Bazaar, a kaleidoscope of Turkish tradition, spread out over 65 streets and dating back to the 15th century. Spend the remainder of the day exploring at your leisure.
The Blue Mosque & more, then embark your ship in Istanbul
This morning in Istanbul, tour the light-filled Blue Mosque, studded with domes and minarets on the outside and glistening with some 20,000 colored tiles and 260 stained-glass windows inside; the Hippodrome, in the center of the city when it was called Constantinople, capital of the Byzantine empire; and the colorful Spice Bazaar. Enjoy lunch and a boat ride on the Bosphorus this afternoon before boarding Wind Star for your 7-night small ship cruise to legendary ports of call on the shores of the Aegean Sea.
Aboard Wind Star
A full day of cruising
Spend a relaxing day at sea as your yacht charts a course along the Turkish coast to Kusadasi with sails unfurled; you are free to experience the amenities and activities aboard Wind Star... perhaps challenging a shipmate to a board game on deck, taking a refreshing swim in the pool, getting in a workout in the fitness center, catching up with your reading in the library, or relaxing in the hot tub... it's all up to you!
From Kusadasi, explore the antiquities of Ephesus
Dock in Kusadasi, Turkey, today. Drive to Ephesus, once the chief port on the Aegean, now known for its spectacular antiquities and ruins. See the Library of Celsus, the Temple of Hadrian, Gate of Hercules, Greek Theater, and other temples, baths, and colonnaded streets on a walking tour of the ancient city. This evening, enjoy a special dinner at the Library of Celsus with live music by a chamber orchestra. Your Aegean cruise and Greece tour takes you to the isle of Rhodes tomorrow.
Discover the island of Rhodes
Your cruise arrives at Rhodes this morning, which
basks in sunshine for more than 300 days a year. Join us for a guided
tour of Rhodes' medieval Old Town – there are about 200 lanes in this
Hellenistic city that lead to columned ruins, temples and cobblestone
streets dating back to the second century. Visit the Palace of the Grand
Masters; first built by the Knights of Rhodes, this palace was
destroyed in the mid-1800s and reconstructed in the 1930s in a medieval
style. Enjoy some free time to explore on your own this afternoon –
onboard ship this evening is a performance in Greek folkloric
traditions, then you set sail for Bodrum.
Turkish coast wonders in Bodrum
Wind Star charts a course to Bodrum, Turkey, where you will see the remains of the ancient city of Halicarnassus, including the ruins of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World – the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, tomb of King Mausolus of Caria. Visit the Castle of St. Peter and the castle's Museum of Underwater Archaeology before heading back to the yacht. Spend the afternoon as you wish in town, or, weather permitting, head back to your ship for a swim in the crystal-clear sea right off the ship's platform – just one of the many advantages of small ship cruising on this marvelous Turkey and Greece tour. Tonight, the onboard entertainment includes belly dancing!
The spectacular island of Santorini
Rise early to catch spectacular water views of the Greek island of Santorini as the ship pulls into port. Visit Oia and the capital city of Fira with its whitewashed, blue-domed buildings set on high, steep slopes above the sea – definitely a highlight of a Greece tour. Sightseeing today is by cable car, donkey or on foot as you make your way back down to Athinios Port. The ship offers tender service until it sets sail, giving you an opportunity to explore as you please; enjoy an onboard barbecue dinner tonight.
Explore the islands of Mykonos & Delos
Your Greece tour continues when your ship calls on glamorous Mykonos, weather permitting. A choice of activities includes a tour of the island or a boat ride to the tiny island of Delos, the mythological birthplace of Apollo and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This religious pilgrimage destination features sacred temples, sanctuaries, theaters, and shrines to the gods, and is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. Spend the afternoon in Mykonos, known for leather goods and jewelry.
Disembark in Piraeus for Mycenae, Epidaurus and on to Athens
Disembark Wind Star today in Piraeus, then travel to Mycenae, first settled in 3,000 BC, where you'll see the remnants of the imposing Lion's Gate and Agamemnon's Tomb on a walking tour of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. After lunch at a winery, continue to Epidaurus and check out its famous ruins, including the well-preserved theatre built in the 4th century BC to seat 15,000 people. Spend the next three nights in the heart of Athens, birthplace of western culture, at one of the world's favorite hotels; enjoy dinner on your own tonight.
Hotel Grande Bretagne
Amazing archaelogical museums in Athens
Spend the morning exploring one of the world's best collections of ancient Greek art and artifacts at the National Archaeological Museum of Athens. After lunch, take a guided tour of the new Acropolis Museum in Athens, which opened to the public in 2009. Designed to house every artifact found on the archaeological site of the Acropolis of Athens – the rock above the city on which the ancient Parthenon sits – the new museum occupies the archaeological site of Makrygianni; its collection comprises nearly 4,000 objects, exhibited over an area of 14,000 square meters. Enjoy some free time and dinner on your own in remarkable Athens this evening.
The Acropolis & Athens as you please
In the quiet early morning, visit the Acropolis; this is the site of four of the greatest masterpieces of classical Greek art – the Parthenon, the Propylaea, the Erechtheum, and the Temple of Athena Nike – a highlight of any Greece tour. You'll have the remainder of the day to pursue your own interests and enjoy lunch on your own in Athens; the city blends past with present along a unique promenade lined on one side by classical antiquities and modern-day cafés, and mansions and art galleries on the other. Join us this evening to share a few favorite moments of your extraordinary cruise during our cocktail reception and farewell dinner.
Journey home
Your Aegean cruise and Greece tour ends in Athens. Fly home anytime. A transfer from the Hotel Grande Bretagne to Athens International Airport is included. Allow 3 hours for flight check-in.
Land / Cruise Price includes private Tauck shore excursions,
cruise fare, port charges, applicable fuel surcharges, daily cocktail
hour, all-day soft drinks, wine with dinner aboard ship, entertainment
and gratuities to Tauck Director and ship staff. Departures will be
hosted by one Tauck Director for approximately every 40 Tauck guests.
Land portion of this cruise involves significant walking, as vehicle
access to antiquities and ruins is often limited. Sightseeing in Athens,
Istanbul, and the Greek Islands features ancient sites with many steps
and uneven terrain, where walking is more difficult and vehicle access
is often limited.
Let Tauck reserve your flights
Traveling to Europe with Tauck ensures more than a memorable travel experience; it also enables you to take advantage of additional "do it for you" travel services that take the hassle out of arranging them yourself! As an added service, we can make flight arrangements for your journey, if your travels originate in the United States, offering you a number of welcome advantages. With Tauck, you can:
What's more, if you purchase Tauck's Guest Protection, you'll receive a refund should you need to cancel your flights due to covered reasons. Another great reason to buy your air from Tauck!
Tauck Guests enjoy complimentary Internet access in guest rooms!
The deluxe InterContinental Istanbul elegantly reflects both European and Asian influences, as is fitting in the cosmopolitan city of Istanbul. Located in the center of the city near Taksim Park, it is very convenient to many of Istanbul's best-known sights. Its large selection of restaurants and bars offer many dining and drinking choices and its leisure facilities include an outdoor swimming pool and Jacuzzi, a beauty parlor and a health club with a fully equipped gym, sauna and Turkish bath. Air-conditioned guest rooms are spacious and well appointed, including satellite television, minibars and safes.
Windstar Cruises' slogan, "180° From Ordinary," aptly describes the delights of a voyage aboard the intimate Wind Star. This totally modern, four-masted schooner is designed to show guests the world from the perspective of a luxury motor-sail-yacht. All staterooms feature ocean views, closed circuit color television, DVD and CD players, a minibar/refrigerator, international direct-dial telephones, a hairdryer and private baths with luxurious toiletries and plush robes. Public areas include a saltwater swimming pool, a hot tub and the pool bar on deck 4, an intimate lounge and bar, a fitness center, and a library offering books, videos and CDs for use in staterooms. Of particular note is complimentary water-skiing, windsurfing, snorkeling and kayaking, weather permitting. "Casual elegance" defines life aboard this sleek vessel, with jackets and ties never being required. Dining in The Restaurant or in the more casual Veranda Restaurant is an epicurean delight. Over 90 crewmembers attend to the needs of just 148 guests, assuring attentive service.
Located in the center of Athens on Syntagma Square, across from the Greek Parliament buildings, Hotel Grande Bretagne has been welcoming discerning travelers since 1874. For over 130 years, it has been a favorite of crowned heads and heads of state. A member of Starwood's Luxury Collection, this classic and prestigious hotel more than deserves its reputation for excellence. Leisure facilities include an impressive spa with an indoor swimming pool, and an outdoor swimming pool on the roof garden that is open seasonally. The roof garden also features a bar and restaurant during the summer months.
Many Tauck travelers prefer arriving at their destination a day before
their Tauck journey begins, or often extend a stay at the end of their
trip. As a service, Tauck will make hotel reservations before and after
your journey.
There are bound to be questions when travelling. Information on everything from weather to internet connections can be found below.
Special Luggage Restrictions for this Tour
Due to space constraints aboard Wind Star and on motor coaches in Turkey and Greece, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to one small carry-on, no larger than an average size knapsack, which will easily fit under your seat, as overhead racks are not wide enough to accommodate large bags.
Checked Luggage – General
Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).
Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.
Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.
Please be sure to attach your Tauck luggage tag to your suitcase before leaving home!
Carry-on Luggage - General
Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.
For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.
If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally, you will need a passport valid for six months beyond the completion of your Tauck journey for entry into Greece and Turkey. Visas for Turkey must be obtained prior to travel. You do not need a visa for Greece.
Citizens of the U.S., Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom do not require a visa to enter Greece; however they are required to have a Turkish e-Visa (electronic visa) in order to enter Turkey. (Citizens of countries other than the U.S., Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom should contact the Turkish and Greek Embassies or Consulates in their home country to determine entry requirements
If you are a U.S., Canadian, Australian or U.K. citizen, you must apply for and obtain your e-Visa online NO SOONER THAN THREE MONTHS prior to your arrival in Turkey by going to the Turkish e-Visa website at https://www.evisa.gov.tr/en/ and completing the application process as instructed on the website. Once at the e-Visa website, you will be asked to complete and submit an online e-Visa application form. When completing your e-Visa application, please be sure to note the specific date you'll be arriving into Turkey. If you are arriving in Turkey one or more days prior to the official start of your Tauck journey, be sure to note your actual arrival date (vs. the start date of your Tauck itinerary).
Once submitted, your completed application form will trigger a confirmation email sent to the email address you provided, to confirm the accuracy of that address. You must respond to this email (by clicking the link at the bottom of the email message) within one hour of its delivery. Clicking the link in the email will direct you to a page on the e-Visa website where you must make the required payment of U.S. $20.00 for your e-Visa. After making your payment you will receive a second email, this one providing a link to the page where you can download and print your e-Visa.
Please be sure to print out your e-Visa and bring it with you on your journey. The e-Visa must be presented to Turkish officials at the airport upon your arrival in Istanbul, and it should also be kept with you at all times during your travels in Turkey. Your e-Visa will be valid for 180 days from the date it is issued.
PLEASE NOTE: Failure to obtain an e-Visa (or the failure to present it upon your arrival in Istanbul) may cause local officials to deny you entrance into Turkey.
If you are a citizen of another country, you should contact a consulate or embassy of Greece and of Turkey to determine what travel documentation is required.
You will be issued a boarding card, which you must present before embarking the ship in each port. This security measure also ensures that only Tauck guests are permitted onboard.
We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.
Transportation to the tour departure point and from the tour ending point is not included.
Although every effort is made to handle your luggage carefully, we cannot be responsible, assume liability or accept claims for loss or damage to luggage and personal effects due to breakage, theft, or fair wear and tear through hotel, airline and group carrier handling. It is important for your own self-interest and protection that you make certain you have adequate insurance to cover these eventualities. Please refer to the Tauck Travel Protection Product section below for more information.
Lost luggage is an unfortunate possibility in today's world of airline travel. We suggest that you:
Your Tauck Director will assist you with airline and other carrier communications, but has no inside contacts to guarantee or expedite recovery of lost luggage. All recovery costs, including the communication costs, are your responsibility. Check your travel protection details for covered expenses.
Museum visits and personal shopping time may be disrupted due to unforeseen circumstances or the many state, religious and civic holidays locally observed. You may wish to log on to Wikipedia to view a list of holidays by country by clicking here.
We understand and appreciate the value of instant communication when we travel; it keeps us in touch with friends and family, and it's a reassurance in the event of an emergency. However, the use of cell phones can be disruptive to a tour and to other guests who are enjoying their vacation. As a courtesy to others, we ask that you refrain from using your cell phone while on the motor coach, during group functions, when sightseeing and when your Tauck Director is addressing the group as a whole. There will be many opportunities to make and receive calls at times when it does not affect others.
Please contact your cell phone carrier to determine whether your service extends to Greece and Turkey.
Age Recommendations ― Children 5 years of age or older at the time of travel are welcome on this Tauck journey. Based upon our experience with family travelers, we have a minimum recommended age for each journey to encourage comfort and enjoyment for all of our guests. All children must be accompanied on activities by a parent or guardian. At least one guest in the traveling party must be 21 years of age or older in order to make a reservation.
Babysitting ― Our journeys are designed for adults and children to share the wonder of discovery together. If you require babysitting services, your Tauck Director will put you in contact with the appropriate hotel staff with whom you may make babysitting arrangements. There is usually an additional fee for these services. Many hotels do offer on-site babysitting services; however, babysitting services may not be available at all of our hotels.
There are no babysitting services available on the cruise ship. Please note that our Tauck Directors are not responsible for providing babysitting services.
Safety and Welfare Responsibility ― We welcome the participation of child travelers on our exciting excursions. If you are traveling with a child on a Tauck journey, you have the sole responsibility for ensuring that that the child with whom you are traveling follows all rules of safety during the cruise. By traveling with us, you release Tauck, Inc. and our partners of all liability for any risks and/or injuries to the child with whom you are traveling.
Special Travel Documentation for Children
Authorization for Travel
If you travel into or out of the U.S. with children under the age of 18, you should be aware of the following: because of increasing incidents of child abductions in disputed custody cases and because children are at risk as possible victims of child pornography, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) strongly recommends that unless the child is accompanied by both parents, you should have a notarized note from the child's other parent (or, in the case of a child traveling with grandparents, uncles or aunts, sisters or brothers, or friends, a note signed by both parents) stating that the parent(s) not traveling acknowledge that the parent(s), family members, etc. who are traveling into or out of the U.S. with the child have permission to do so. While CBP may not ask to see this documentation, if they do ask, and you do not have it, you may be detained until the circumstances of the child traveling without both parents can be fully assessed.
If there is no second parent with legal claims to the child (parent deceased, sole custody, etc.), other relevant paperwork, such as a court decision, birth certificate naming only one parent, or a death certificate, will be useful.
Many other countries also share this concern for children who travel without both parents. To ensure smooth travel, we require you to comply with the travel regulations of each country visited. This information may be obtained from a country's consulate or embassy.
Authorization for Emergency Medical Treatment
In the unlikely event of a medical emergency, a medical facility will require permission from the child's parents to provide treatment. Therefore, we strongly suggest that you bring along a letter from both parents (including other pertinent documents as cited above) authorizing emergency medical treatment for their child.
Children who are U.S. citizens must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond the completion of the journey.
We are not responsible for the disruption of travel caused by the improper documentation of any guest, including children traveling without both parents. While there is no definitive format or standard, click here to view a sample letter for guardians or one parent traveling with a child.
Windstar Cruises stipulate that minors traveling to any foreign country must be accompanied by both parents, or, if they are not accompanied by both parents, they must have a notarized paper of permission signed by the parent(s) not accompanying them. If the other parent is deceased or the child has only one legal parent, a notarized statement must be provided as proof. Furthermore, cruise passengers less than 21 years of age must be accompanied by a parent, guardian or chaperone that is at least 25 years of age. One adult chaperone is required for every five people less than 21 years of age. Parents, guardians and chaperones are responsible for overseeing the onboard conduct of minors.
If you are traveling from the U.S., the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires that your name, as it appears on your domestic or international airline ticket, must precisely match your name as it appears on the government-issued photo ID (i.e., passport or driver's license) that you present during security screening. The ID name must also match any additional airline data, such as frequent-flyer information. For example, if you present your driver's license to security and it says John T. Smith, your ticket must also say John T. Smith, not John Thomas Smith, Jack Smith, or any other variant. Your date-of-birth and gender information provided to the airline must also match your passport.
If you make your air travel arrangements through us, please ensure that the name you provide us precisely matches your name as shown on the identification you will use while traveling. If you make your own airline reservations, please ensure that the airline has the correct information.
For more information on the TSA's requirements, please visit their website by clicking here.
If you are traveling from an airport outside the jurisdiction of the U.S., you will need to determine what travel documentation and identification is required for that particular airport.
Due to heightened security regulations, certain items such as a metal nail file, pocketknife, cigarette lighter, or tweezers, and some liquid, gel, or aerosol items may not be permitted in your carry-on luggage. Please call your airline prior to departure to obtain current information on non-permissible carry-on items and recommended airport check-in times.
Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we've partnered with New Headings who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site.
Your journey is designed with leisure in mind. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is adaptable and allows for layering. Generally, during the day, casual, comfortable, cotton clothing is recommended. Cool weather at higher elevations or at night will require warmer, layered clothing. For the welcome and farewell receptions, casual resort wear is appropriate; formal wear is never required for dining with your fellow guests at a Tauck provided dinner. When traveling abroad, you may have the opportunity to dine at an upscale restaurant on your own, which may require men to dress in coat and tie, and women in more elegant eveningwear.
The "casual elegance" of a Windstar ship is also reflected in the way their guests dress. Windstar recommends that you wear imaginative, yet relaxed, stylish, yet comfortable, clothing as you would at an elegant land resort. For women's daytime wear, they suggest walking shorts, skirts, sarongs, lightweight tops and cover-ups; for evening wear - sun dresses, pants, or informal cocktail attire. For men's daytime wear, they suggest Bermuda shorts, polo shirts, and khaki pants; in the evening - lightweight trousers and short-sleeved dress or polo shirts. No suits or ties are required. Shorts, jeans, and t-shirts are not permitted in the restaurant or bistro during the evening.
Valet laundry service is available at the hotels listed on this itinerary. On board the Windstar ships, next-day laundry and pressing service is available; dry cleaning services, irons and ironing boards are not available. A hair dryer is located in each cabin.
When visiting mosques, Muslims wash themselves and remove their shoes. Other visitors should also remove their shoes, show the respect they would any other house of worship, and avoid visiting the mosque during prayer time. Men and women should cover their shoulders, arms and knees, and should not wear shorts or sleeveless shirts. A headscarf is not required. (In certain famous mosques, complimentary robes are provided for those deemed not suitably dressed.)
We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription (or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you), a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed.
Following is a list of recommended items to pack for cruising on the Aegean Sea:
To enjoy this cruise, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. Many of the sites visited were built in antiquity and have many steps and uneven surfaces. It is important that you wear sturdy, comfortable walking shoes that have already been broken-in. The amount of walking that you choose to do, however, is at your discretion. Additionally, you should be steady on your feet to circumnavigate the decks of the ship while cruising on the Aegean Sea. Some ship to shore transportation is by local tender. Occasionally you may get wet with spray.
PLEASE NOTE: We regret that this Tauck itinerary cannot accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters. Likewise, we regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs. The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest. Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.
A doctor and limited medical facilities are available onboard. However, if you take special medications, please bring an adequate supply with you; they may not be available onboard. Medical services and all medicines (except acetaminophen, aspirin and anti-nausea pills) dispensed to you by the ship's doctor will be charged to your shipboard account. If you become ill during the voyage and the physician is unable to care for your needs onboard, you will be transferred to medical facilities onshore.
The Windstar cruise ship is registered in the Bahamas. Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.
The Windstar does not have elevators.
Smoking is not permitted on the motor coaches or inside the ship, including inside staterooms. Smoking is only permitted on the outer decks in designated smoking areas.
If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.
If you are a resident of the U.S., no vaccinations are currently required for travel to Greece or Turkey. For complete vaccination and inoculation information, contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.A. The Travelers' Health Section of the CDC operates a 24-hour "Travelers' Health Hotline" at 800-232-4636 (toll-free in the U.S.). You may also log on to the CDC website by clicking here.
If you are a resident of another country, please contact an embassy or consulate of Greece and of Turkey to determine what vaccination(s) may be required for your travel.
The motor coaches used on this tour are air-conditioned for your comfort. The Windstar ship and all of the hotels on this itinerary have air conditioning. Please note that European air conditioning should be considered as a climate-control system; most have three settings for the fan, plus a "cool" setting. Very few of the European systems actually have a temperature setting. In general, the amount of cool air that is produced from a European air conditioning system may be less than what you may experience in your own living environment.
The currency in Greece is the euro. In Turkey the currency is the Turkish new lira although U.S. dollars are widely accepted.
In Greece, banks and exchange bureaus are widely available and travelers' checks and major credit cards are widely accepted. ATMs are widespread and are generally the most cost effective and convenient method of obtaining euros.
In Turkey, currency can be exchanged at banks, exchange booths, post offices, airports and ferry ports; banks have the least favorable rates and highest commissions, but will exchange lesser known foreign currencies. ATMs are widely available in major cities and tourist areas. Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted. Travelers' checks can be exchanged at some banks and exchange bureaus, but are not as welcome as cash or credit cards. U.S. dollars or euros are preferred.
We also recommend that you carry some cash in U.S. dollars, in $1, $5, and $10 denominations, for miscellaneous use when only a small amount of currency is required. Should you have any questions, your Tauck Director will be happy to assist you.
Onboard the Windstar ship an imprint of your credit card will be taken upon embarkation in order to open your shipboard account. All charges throughout the cruise are signed to your stateroom. Only on the last day of the cruise can cash (in U.S. dollars only) and credit cards be used to purchase goods and services aboard Windstar ship. There is no foreign exchange counter and no ATM machine onboard the ships. The ship uses U.S. currency only and will cash travelers' checks and provide U.S. dollars.
To obtain the most current exchange rates for all national currencies, you may want to check your local newspaper or log on to oanda.com by clicking here.
Each country we visit has its own customs clearing process. You should familiarize yourself with the specific required declarations of Turkey and Greece before you travel. In general, you are not permitted to bring live plants, fresh fruits and other produce items into most countries. You may find additional information by visiting VisaHQ.com by clicking here.
If you are a U.S. resident who will be returning to the U.S. at the end of the tour, you are entitled to a duty-free exemption based on the total value of merchandise purchase abroad, as long as you physically bring them with you. There are limits to the amount of alcohol that can be a part of this exemption. Certain restrictions apply to unaccompanied goods mailed from abroad to the U.S. Please call your local customs office or consult the U.S. government's customs regulations as contained in their publication entitled Know Before You Go.
If you are a resident of another country, please refer to your own country's rules and regulations regarding customs and duty-free shopping to ensure compliance upon your return.
Many countries levy Value Added Taxes (VAT) on consumer goods and services. (The tax rate may be higher for luxury items and lower for basic goods.) As a rule, if you are not a resident of the country (or of the country's intergovernmental economic community, e.g., the European Union) in which the purchase is made, you may be entitled to a VAT refund and should inquire about the refund policy where you shop.
Internet Access is available as indicated below:
Hotels - Complimentary basic Internet where available in hotel rooms; service levels are not guaranteed.
Wind Star - Wireless access is available in most staterooms, public areas and suites for a fee; laptops available for rental for a daily fee.
The Mediterranean and Aegean coasts of Greece and Turkey enjoy long hot dry summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures in Greece are tempered by the Etesian northerly wind which blows across the Aegean Sea, and breezes called "meltemia", however, mainland temperatures are often very high. Winters are mild and wet, although rainfall is generally low in most areas.
To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, noaa.gov, by clicking here.
To help expedite your booking, please have the following information ready before you call us:
Travel Agents are encouraged to visit Tauck's Agent Services website at https://agent.tauck.com – please have your travel industry ID number (ARC, IATA, ABTA, CLIA, etc.) or your Tauck agency ID number ready.
For reservations, call 800-788-7885 or contact your travel agent to book today!
Tauck Reservation Sales Counselors are available:
Monday through Friday 6 am - 8 pm
Saturday 9 am - 5 pm
Sunday 12 pm - 5 pm (Eastern Time)
Monday through Friday 6 am - 8 pm
Saturday 9 am - 5 pm
Sunday 12 pm - 5 pm (Eastern Time)
The Deposit and the fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.Your deposit is $1,100 per person.
We will be happy to advise hotels of any special requests, provided we receive them at time of booking. We regret that requests cannot be guaranteed.
Final Payment is due at Tauck's Norwalk, CT office 60 days before departure. Any bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice.
Tauck's Cruise Protection
Guests booking a Tauck cruise have the option of purchasing cancellation protection from Tauck in the event they need to cancel their cruise after booking. Tauck's Travel Protection is available to all travelers, with the exception of residents of Puerto Rico.
Under Tauck's all-inclusive Cruise Protection, you can cancel your cruise for any covered reason up to the day before departure and receive a money-back refund (except in Extreme Circumstances*) on the cruise cost, based on your original method of payment. The following conditions apply:
Section I Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck: Should you have to cancel your cruise for any reason, Tauck's Cancellation Waiver reduces the regular cancellation fees outlined herein, provided we are notified of cancellation before your cruise departs. Certain terms and restrictions apply (see below*).
Section II – Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by Stonebridge Casualty Insurance Company. Should you have to cancel your trip due to illness, injury, death or other covered reason, any cancellation or airline penalties not refunded by Tauck under Section I's Cancellation Waiver would be reimbursable under Section II. This Protection also provides 24-hour emergency assistance services as well as:
The cost of Tauck's Cruise Protection is $560.00 per person.
This protection provides insurance coverage that applies only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.
Travel insurance is underwritten by: Stonebridge Casualty Insurance Company, Columbus, OH; NAIC #10952, (all states except as otherwise noted) under Policy/Certificate Form series TAHC5000. In CA, HI, NE, NH, PA, TN and TX Policy/Certificate Form series TAHC5100 and TAHC5200. In IL, IN, KS, LA, OH, OR, VT, WA and WY Policy Form #'s TAHC5100IPS and TAHC5200IPS. Certain coverages are under series TAHC6000 and TAHC7000. 26325543
This optional Cruise Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included in initial payment. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your cruise reservation. Cruise Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Cost is not refundable under any circumstances. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.
*Extreme Circumstances: In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.
If You Have To Cancel
Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. Therefore, the fees listed will apply.
Guests choosing to purchase Tauck's Cruise Protection will incur cancellation penalties per person as follows:
60 days or more before departure
Loss of cost of Tauck's Cruise Protection ($560.00)
59-30 days before departure
Loss of 25% of the cost of the cruise, not including air (if applicable), plus loss of Cruise Protection fee, per person
29-1 days before departure
Loss of 50% of the cost of the cruise, not including air (if applicable), plus loss of Cruise Protection fee, per person
Guests choosing not to purchase Tauck's Cruise Protection will incur cancellation penalties per person as follows:
60 days or more before departure
$1100.00 per person
59-30 days before departure
Loss of 50% of the cost of cruise, not including air (if applicable), per person
29-1 days before departure
Loss of 100% of the cost of cruise, not including air (if applicable), per person
Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Norwalk, CT office.
In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation and transfer terms outlined herein.
Cruise Interruption Fees – If you have to interrupt your cruise en route, you may be entitled to a refund for the unused land portion if it exceeds 24 hours; certain restrictions apply. Such refunds are based upon the number of overnights missed less a fee of $40 per person per day for unused transportation and other fixed expenses.
Partial Room Cancellation – A person who cancels or leaves a cruise while a roommate remains constitutes a cancellation of one type of accommodation and rebooking of another. The price charged the remaining person is the new, higher price for the new accommodation.
Click here to download our complete Description of Coverage.
Note: This cruise may operate aboard multiple boats; click on the ships below for corresponding deck plans.
Windstar Cruises' slogan, "180° From Ordinary," aptly describes the delights of a voyage aboard the intimate Wind Star and Wind Spirit. These totally modern, four-masted schooners are twin sisters designed to show guests the world from the perspective of a luxury motor-sail-yacht.
Overall Rating:
This trip was top of the line! I felt like royalty on the yacht and at the grand dinners! The guides for the tours were amazing! Everything was taken care of by Mike!
Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely
Our trip to Athens,the Greek Isles and Turkey was like taking a
time machine back into the ancient past. We explored Greece,walking up to the Acropolis and touching the ancient
stones of the Parthenon. Our tour of Myknosis and Delos was
awe inspiring. Turkey was magical,sailing up the Bospohorus
and seeing the mosques was awesome.
I celebrated my birthday duuring theis trip. We had a great
lunch at a seaside resteraunt on the Dardanielles and then
took our own private boat ride. The farewell dinner and
whirling Divirishes were spectacular.
Having taught about ancient civilizations, I wanted to actually see the sites. Tauck provided the opportunity to see them though out Greece and Turkey. The local tour guides were very knowledgeable about each site we toured. Phillip Pope, Tauck's tour director, maximized our time at each site while avoiding the large crowds. He was great!
The most memorable moment would be the instant that I saw the Library at Ephesus and was able to walk within the ancient walls.
Jim Kirsch
We arranged it all via Tauck; airfare was cheaper and paid off when Air France went on strike at the end. Great hotel in Athens; walk to Acropolis and many other sites. Was apprehensive about the ship but it was a highlight - fantastic service, amazing food - Greek and anything one could want; stateroom was enough room. Tours of ruins well done.
Walking around the Acropolis
The trip was amazing: from the ship, to Istanbul, to the Greek islands and Greece. I have wanted to see Greece for years and finally did! I had no positive nor negative expectations for Istanbul but found it fascinating. I was so glad to see all the historic sites. Both my husband and I found it exhausting: still hot and humid.
I think visiting the Acropolis and the Parthenon. Our guide Mike was A plus! He even used his phone to call my children due to internet problems. Definitely over and above!!!
We had the BEST director; he certainly made the trip memorable! Besides him, the hotels were all 5 star, incredible service from everyone...hotel staff, ship staff, drivers, local guides...just couldn't have been better and more personalized. We enjoyed our group of fellow travelers as well.
Probably, seeing the sun rising from behind the Acropolis from the rooftop breakfast dining room of the Royal Bretagne on the first morning. It was breathtaking. Next to that the visit to Ephesus just blew me away.
If you're a history buff, if you want an in-depth immersion in cultures you've only read about, and if you want to experience all this with the comforts and feeling of security that only Tauck provides, then this trip is for you!
Watching the sun rise on the Acropolis while having a wonderful breakfast at the roof-top garden restaurant at the Grande Bretagne hotel in Athens is an experience we will never forget.
My husband and I took this trip Northbound. The land portion was great and well done. The cruise portion was truly a dream come true for me. Sailing on the beautiful WindStar through the Aegean was great fun. At every port we were the center of attention as we were so different from the massive cruise ships next to us. Very classy way to travel.
Picking just one moment is impossible. Being on Santorini was truly memorable. The views from the cliffs were spectacular. The ruins at Ephesus in Turkey were also a standout as a place to visit. I loved the town of Nafplion where we even saw a rainbow after a brief storm. Of course The Parthenon on the Acropolis was unforgettable. I'm out of room
The land//sea trip was outstanding overall. Our guide was outstanding as were all the trip leaders in the individual cities. We learned a lot about Turkey, which changed our feelings about the country. Greece was everything we expected a and totally enjoyable. Great trip!
Being a part of ancient history was very moving in all sites. This was particularly true going through the Dardanelles, climbing up to the Parthenon, and visiting the unknowns tomb.
Phil Delk
We had a most enjoyable trip to Turkey and Greece. The guides were excellent and the Tour Director, Mike [Employee Name] made sure all our needs were foreseen and satisfied. My only disappoint was that the Windstar portion of the trip did not include any time under sail without the engines providing power. The Trip brouchure emphasized the sailing aspect.
Exploring Ephesus.
It was all it was billed to be and more. This was our first Tauck Tour and it won't be our last. In fact we have already booked the Galapagos for next year. We enjoyed great traveling companions, guides, sights, food, refreshments and our amazing tour director -- Philip Pope. The Windstar was most enjoyable -- great ambiance, service and food.
It would be impossible to define a "most" memorable moment. The trip was filled with so many memorable moments that to pick one would be unfair to all the others.
Overall, the trip was very good. The ship was great and the food very good. Rooms on board were small, but very comfortable and Windstar staff great. Tours of cities and historical sites were great.
Only disappointment were the hotels. After my China trip last year I expected better accommodations and specifically better views from hotel rooms
Tours of Ephesus and Delos!
My Husband and I went on the small ship cruise through the Aegean Sea. Our Tour Director Phillip - What a great guy! If you go on this tour I hope you have Philip as your guide, he is hands down the best! He is very passionate about what he does, very knowledgeable and a great story teller! The local guides were fantastic & friendly!
Every stop along the tour has its own beauty and history, so its hard to choose just one! The Hotels & Ship staff were outstanding! Dinning was 5 stars!
Wonderful trip.
It was like a college field trip with lots of amenities
Ephesus tour
Our Treasures of the Aegean - Southbound was an unforgettable experience through the marvels of ancient Turkey & Greece with plenty of modern encounters as well.
The visit to Ephesus with it's many Biblical & historical sites was probably the most memorable with our outstanding guides. The beauty of the Aegean on our sailing day was one of the most magnificent experiences of my life.
Tauck has all of it down perfectly. From the time of arrival where they picked us up on time until our drop off, our director, Nancy, left nothing to chance. The sights were amazing, hotels excellent and food delicious.
The Wind Star was incredible. Would have stayed on it longer!
My husband and I would highly recommend this trip. The tours were wonderfully organized and well worth the time. The sailing was a wonderful experience, and we enjoyed all the islands and stops. The trip was just perfect.
I really enjoyed the Whirling Dervish viewing. It is hard to say one part of the trip that was the most memorable, since it was all so great.
I enjoyed all the people on our tour.
The guides were wonderful too. [Employee Name], our tour guide made sure that we were all organized and informed of our daily agenda
If you enjoy classic Greek and Mediterranean history then you will thoroughly enjoy this 14 day excursion. I highly recommend Tauck for orchestrating it. It was truly a concierge type service with a very professional cruise director [Employee Name], w/over 17 years' experience with Tauck,who taught history,great personality and story teller. Best trip.
Dinner in Athens with an excellent view of the Acropolis
The trip was good. The inter continental Hotel in Istanbul was a disappointment. The Breakfasts were not just marginal - but bad.
The Tour Director had a great personality and worked hard at providing a good experience for a diverse group. She had an irritating habit of talking to group memberson the bus while the local tour guide was also talk
ing. She also had a tendency to "traumatize" her work load; i.e., "I have so much to do," "There is just so much work to be done," etc.
The highlights were definitely the Parthenon, Sophia and Ephesus.
Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Maybe
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback with us. I am sorry that some aspects of this journey fell below your expectations. One of our Guest Relations Specialists will contact you to discuss this matter in more detail.
-The Tauck Guest Relations Team
Jose Mari
A great tour before having to cut it short due to an intestinal disorder contracted in Istambul.
Before being hospitalized in Bodrum, we met perfectly delightful guests and crew members. Nancy, the tour Director, was outstanding as were Dr. Jake Mendoza as well as OnCall International who went beyond the call of duty.
Tauck is the best!
Visiting Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Whirling Dervish show and all the other on-board experiences.
Our tour director, Phillip Pope, was in the top three of all Tauck personnel we've had (note, this was our seventh tour). I don't like the limited characters allowed in this review and there is a look of difference between "just so-so" and "Well done. Tauck rocks!" We had three problems. If you really are interested, feel free to call.
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback with us. One of our Guest Relations Specialists will be contacting you to discuss this matter in detail.
Manita 921
I loved the Greek Islands, Istanbul and Athens. As always, Tauck had put together an agenda that was great. Our tour director was a substitute, and not up to standard.
Sunrise and sunset in Athens, having breakfast in the morning as we watched the sunrise hit the Acropolis.
Beautiful moments at sea.
We are sorry that you were disappointed with the performance of your Tauck Director. One of our Guest Relations Specialists will contact you to discuss this matter in more detail.
Our Treasures of the Aegean Southbound trip was perfect. We cannot imagine how it could have been better, including our Tour Director, [Employee Name]. This was our first experience 'touring', and we will definitely be traveling with Tauck again.
So hard to pinpoint just one - Istanbul and all it has to offer, swimming in the Aegean, Mykonos, the Acropolis in Athens.......
The trip started in Istanbul which is an incredible destination by itself. The guides Tauck provided everywhere on the tripwere knowledgeable, passionate and engaging beyond anything my husband and I expected from a tour. To be honest, we were hesitant to sign up for a group tour of any kind. This was our first, and it surpassed all expectations.
Leaving Istanbul on the Windstar as the western sun was shining on the domes of old Constantinople.
Land portion GREAT with a GREAT guide: Mike [Employee Name]. The "Wind Spirit" nearly ruined our vacation. Being on the second deck, mid-ship, we listened to the gyros/motors that ran the stabilizers all night. My husband had to block his ears with pillows. We awoke every day exhausted...along with some other passengers. If friends elect to go, we say NO!
The noise of the ship every night. Not what you wanted you hear!
It dominates our memory!
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback with us. We are sorry some aspects of thie journey fell below your expectations. One of our Guest Relation Specialists will contact you to discuss this matter in more detail.
The Greek Islands cruising aboard Wind Spiri or Wind Star is the ONLY way to experience each of the beautiful Greek Isles. Perhaps in future cruises, Crete can be included. I have of course enjoyed the visit to Ephesus in Istanbul.
the blue and white backdrop of all the Greek Isles.
NPlatoni Poli
The trip was fabulous! The itinerary had something for everyone. Tauck Director was one of the best we have had in 17 tours.
Can choose one to many fabulous moments
We are delighted you enjoyed your overall journey!
We celebrated our 40th wedding anniversary on this trip. We have memories that we will have for the rest of our life. Each stop on the tour was special with great guides giving us the local history and our Tauck tour director, Phillip, filling in with additional information.
So many that it is hard to name just one. But having our anniversary dinner on the rooftop garden restaurant at the Grand Bretagne Hotel in Athens looking out on the Parthenon was one of the best.
Congratulations on your anniversary! We are very pleased you enjoyed your overall journey and retruned with so many wonderful memories!
It was Great
The history of the area.
We are so pleased you enjoyed your trip!
Our tour was amazing. The ship was wonderful, our tour director, Phillip, was so great. He was a wealth of knowledge and so personable. We had an amazing group of people on the tour. The whole experience was wonderful. We will be checking to see where we can go next on a Tauck tour! Thanks for the great memories.
The farewell dinner. It was such a sweet ending to our time together.
We are thrilled you enjoyed your journey and came back with such great memories!
Tauck does it RIGHT. The balance between being on a trip, learning new things, and seeking cultural understanding happens seemingly without effort for the trip participants. Our days were seamless,we never waited in line, we were always pleasantly surprised with our outings and eating venues and fascinated listening to our guides. Superb!
Climbing the ancient steps at Ephesus, milling about in the modern city of Istambul, sailing away each day on the Aegean, climbing the hills of Santorini, walking Plaka in Athens, how could anyone pick? A feast for the eyes by day, a feast for the body in the culinary venues, an overall feast for the soul in the sheer beauty of ancient and modern.
We are thrilled you enjoyed your journey and have such great memories!
The trip started out with a problem, Before the tour actually started, I fell while walking in Athens. With the help of my husband and understanding guides the trip was outstanding - I managed to participate in all tours and activities including kayaking in Bodrum....a marvelous experience on Windstar - guides, tours, food, hotels - SUPER!
so many to count can't name just one but the trip to Delos was
the most memorable - the ruins, the magnificent Island - peaceful, beautiful wildflowers and lots of birds - and a marvelous museum....I felt I was living back in time - no crowds to fight ----.....blue sky, clean air, and a wonderful guide....
We are so pleased you enjoyed your experience with us. We do hope you are recovering after your injury.
Tauck is always top notch and this trip proved it again. The Windstar cruise was fabulous...and all ports provided plenty to do. We ended our trip in Istanbul during the demonstrations. Tauck had to change our hotel and ended up upgrading to the Kempinski hotel on the Bosphorus. Needless to say, it was a breathtaking experience. Highly recommend.
The Windstar Cruise was by far the best part of the trip. The sailing yacht had only 135 guests which made the experience more personal. The staff on the WindSpirit were top-notch, from the cabin steward to the captain. All were extremely friendly, knew our names by the 1st day, and went out of their way to make our stay memorable.
We are thrilled to hear you enjoyed your experience and thank you for sharing your feedback with us.
My only complaint for the trip was the lunch and dinner meals provided on the land parts of the trip. Way too many dried out chicken breasts or fishy tasting fish. The food on the Wind Star was first rate. The food on my previous Tauck trip was head and shoulders above this trip. Very disappointing for the price paid.
Really! Only 350 characters
We enjoyed the touring completely. The highlight to me was the Parthenon in Athens and for my wife it was the Hagia Sophia in Instanbul.
We are sorry that some aspects of this journey fell below your expectations. One of our Guest Relations Specialists will contact you shortly to discuss this matter in more detail.
We had a wonderful time starting in Athens. The hotel staff was very helpful and spoke terrific English. The hotel itself was beautiful and a lovely rooftop dining room looking out onto the Acropolis. Leaving there to the next stop overnight and then onto the Wind Spirit sailing ship. What a spectacular ship! Spectacular. Need more space!
The first night setting sail. It truly was a memorable event with the sails going up and music playing. Also loved Santorini. A very quaint and quiet island. Istanbul was great despite the protests. My husband injured his foot. Tour Director was very helpful, but Tauck insurance was not. Filed a report and got no help. No response from them
We are most apologetic that you did not receive the appropriate assistance during the time of your husbands foot injury. One of Guest Relations Specialists will be contacting you shortly to discuss this matter in detail.
It was our first Tauck trip and definitely will not be our last! We especially enjoyed Tauck's attention to detail and how they absolutely took care of everything. The whole trip was worry free. It was a pleasant surprise to find out that sometimes you do get what you paid for! Looking forward to our next trip!
Our most memorable moment was in Ephesus. It was a very hot day and we were all very tired at the end of our tour. So you can imagine our surprise when we found cold wet towels waiting for us before we boarded our bus! Thanks Tauck!
We are so glad you enjoyed your journey and we look forward to you joining us on many more!
Edel K
We took the Treasures of the Aegean (southbound) tour from May 15-29. It was our first experience with Tauck, as well as our first cruise. All I can say is that everything exceeded our expectations: the hotels, the Wind Star, and the overall Tauck experience. We really bonded with our fellow Tauck travelers. Look forward our next Tauck vacation.
It is so difficult to name just one...but would have to say that the evening sail away from Santorini was difficult to beat. We had an excellent dinner on the outside deck with new friends (another couple in the Tauck group). Watching the sun set and the lights of the villages come on as we sailed toward Mykonos was something we'll always cherish
Dear Mr. Dutcher,
Thank you so much for your feedback. We are so pleased you enjoyed your experience with us.
Edel K.
This trip was the best. The Greek Isles were so romantic and everything we expected them to be. Istanbul & Athens were Iike stepping back in history. If you haven't done this tour, put it on your list,
Can't say. Each part of the trip was special.
Dear Ms. Rioseco,
We are so pleased you enjoyed your journey!
Edel K.
What a wonderful trip....local guides were excellent, and the sites visited were top notch. Cruising the Greek Isles has always been on my bucket list, afterall, Santorini in all those movies... did not disappoint. Trip is pretty laid back, so there is plenty of time to rest and enjoy!
DELOS---who knew??
If you go, be sure to do the optional visit to Delos (ferry ride from Mykonos). This society was incredible, and in it's day, it was number one. These ruins are on the order of Pompeii, so don't miss it!!
Phillip was exceptional in knowledge of the locations and their history and customer kindness. he worked so well with his partner guide, Michael. They both handled all of the issues that always occur seamlessly. Even before the trip, you sent the spiral-bound booklet with all the trip info all in one neat package.
Arriving back to Le Levant after visiting Delos, the last day on the boat, and seeing the flowers for Carolyn's birthday in our cabin with a heart fashioned from towels into a heart shape. I had asked Phillip for help on this, and paid for the flowers to not make an issue for other birthdays.
You should make Phillip a part of the Tauck family!
B&J Bischof
We have traveled several times with Tauck and what we appreciate most is the attention to detail in all phases of the trip. The trip was wonderful with a well thought out itinerary, highlighting the history and culture of Turkey, Greece, and Greek Islands. Meeting new people and making new friends is always a highlight in the small intimate groups.
There are so many, it is hard to narrow it down to just one. Ephesus was the most impressive ruins we have seen on all our trips. Santorini and the Greek Islands were exceptionally picturesque. Looking at the lighted Acropolis in Athens at night from the Roof Garden of one of the world's premier hotels. All the beautiful Mosques in old Istanbul.
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Itinerary Subject To Change
Longitude Books has been recommending reading lists, maps, and travel guides to Tauck guests for many years. Our reading lists are custom-designed to complement specific Tauck destinations.
To view this tour's reading list or to purchase a selection, please click on the following link:
Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – and depending on the destination, what to pack might include footwear, sunglasses, binoculars, hats, etc. We've partnered with New Headings who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Just click the link below and check out all of the great suggestions to make what you pack that much easier!
Tauck has all of it down perfectly. From the time of arrival where they picked us up on time until our drop off, our Tauck Director left nothing to chance. The sights were amazing, hotels excellent and food delicious. The Wind Star was incredible. Would have stayed on it longer!
Tauck Traveler Review
Tauck has all of it down perfectly. From the time of arrival where they picked us up on time until our drop off, our Tauck Director left nothing to chance. The sights were amazing, hotels excellent and food delicious. The Wind Star was incredible. Would have stayed on it longer!
Tauck Traveler Review


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Police Searching For Alleged Abduction Suspect
PHILLIPSBURG -- A man accused of trying to snatch a little boy right off his skateboard remains on the run.
Sharon Hartley's 10-year-old son was out playing in their quiet Phillipsburg neighborhood Saturday afternoon just like any other weekend.
"We have a lot of kids in the neighborhood and they are out playing all the time," said Hartley.
But that beautiful day quickly turned into a scene from a scary movie. Clay was skateboarding near the post office when he says a strange man got out of a white pickup truck and tried to grab him.
"I'm horrified. I just can't even believe it," she said.
Clay took off running down the street and hid behind a bush. In fact, he told his mom while he was hiding, he saw the suspect slowly driving by looking for him, in a pickup truck.
"That's pretty scary. It's unbelievable actually," Hartley said.
When the coast was clear, Clay emerged from his hiding spot and sprinted to his best friend's house nearby to call his mom.
"I told him I was so proud of him because he ran like he should, he remembered a lot of details," she said.
So far, police haven't been able to track down the suspect, which is why Hartley wants all parents to be on alert and keep a close eye on their kids.
The suspect is described as a white man in his 20s or 30s, about 5-foot-8 with a medium build. He has short, strawberry blonde hair and a goatee. He was last seen driving a white Chevy pickup and wearing a brown zip-up hoodie, blue jeans, and red shoes. If you can help nab him before he approaches another child, call 911.
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FBI conclusively links North Korea to Sony hack
WASHINGTON (AP) -- The FBI says it has enough evidence to conclude that North Korea was behind the hack attack against Sony Pictures Entertainment.
Consumer Info
WEST PALM BEACH, FL -- (Marketwired) -- 03/21/14 --
Companies that pride themselves on being eco-friendly may have conflicted
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LOS ANGELES (AP) -- Now that Sony has made the bombshell decision to scrap "The Interview" -- the fallout is starting to spread.
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FRANKLIN, Ind. (AP) -- Baby Jesus is going high-tech.
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ATLANTA (AP) -- Remember how after 9/11, there was increased attention given to security at buildings, airports and other complexes.
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5:00 pm ...... The Great Christmas Light Fight
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Place: Connecticut College, New London, CT
Dates: July 20 25, 2008
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