Steps of Paul cruise including Greece and Turkey

Join Dwight and Anita Widaman following the journeys of Paul and the Apostles in Greece and Turkey. Our custom, 11-day experience includes a 7-day cruise aboard the Journey – the new flagship of Celestyal Cruises. In addition to the cruise, we’ll enjoy a custom tour of Athens and Corinth including the Acropolis, Mars Hill, the ancient Corinth Canals, Paul’s judgment seat, plus other spectacular sites central to the first century of Christianity.

A cruise is the best and most convenient way to follow the Steps of Paul across Greece and Turkey. After Athens, our ship sets sail to Thessaloniki, Kusadasi-Ephesus, Crete, Santorini, Mykonos and Milos. We’ll explore early Christianity in the days of Paul, the Byzantine Empire and step back further to the ancient Phoenicians and Minoans – the people from whom the Greeks descended at the time of Moses! Upon our return to Athens we have a day in Corinth and as well as see the inspiring Corinth Canals then overnight before our return home on Oct. 5.

What’s included

• Dates: Depart September 24, 2025, from the U.S. Arriving in Athens Sept. 25. Returning to U.S. Oct. 5
• 3 nights and 4 days in Athens and Corinth (Athens is before the cruise and Corinth after)
• Guided Steps of Paul in Athens
• Guided Steps of Paul in Corinth
• 7-night cruise aboard the Celestyal Journey (INFO)
• Dwight and Anita as your hosts each day
• All transfers! Including airport to hotel, hotel to port, and port to airport on departure
• 5-star hotel across from the Temple of Zeus, next to the Plaka neighborhood and the Acropolis
• All breakfasts in Athens
• Welcome restaurant dinner in Athens
• All sites and special activities
• All port charges
• Gratuities onboard ship
• Half and full-day excursions with an expert guide on an air-conditioned coach included
• Special lunches on full-day cruise excursion
• 5 shore excursions during the cruise including Thessaloniki in Macedonia, Kusadasi Turkey (Ephesus), Crete, Santorini and Milos with Mykonos being a free day to explore or go to the beach. On Milos, we have a special mini-cruise abroad a smaller boat to explore the beautiful inlets, beaches, and moonscapes of this volcanic island.
• Choice of interior or exterior staterooms (details below)
• Unlimited classic drink package during all onboard meals
• Award-winning onboard dining including full buffets or restaurant-style

Package Prices with stateroom levels are listed below.

READ MORE: Here’s our story on our own Steps of Paul journey

Itinerary

Day 1 | Wednesday, September 24: Depart U.S.

Depart on overnight flights to Athens, Greece.

Day 2 | Thursday, September 25: Arrival in Athens, Greece

Upon arrival, transfer to our 5-star Athens Hotel.  The hotel is centrally located along the Plaka neighborhood so we can easily explore the area and get our first awe-inspiring views of the Acropolis and the Temple of Zeus. We’ll enjoy a walking tour that afternoon, or you can sit and relax by the hotel pool. That evening, Dwight and Anita will host an included Greek Welcome Dinner at our favorite local restaurant. After dinner, we’ll enjoy a cool evening walk back to the hotel and gather at the rooftop lounge for an inspiring view of the Parthenon as it illuminates this ancient city.

Day 3 | Friday, September 26: Athens

Panoramic city bus tour including the Parliament building with the marching guards and the famous historic Olympic Stadium. Guided tour of the iconic Parthenon on the Acropolis. Next door, visit Mars Hill where Paul spoke to the Athenians and learn about his methods of evangelization (Acts 17:16-34). Next, it is the exquisite New Acropolis Museum to view some of the most famous statues in history – you’ll likely remember them from your high school history class! Enjoy lunch and the afternoon on your own in the famous Plaka Neighborhood made up of quant Greek homes along tree-lined alleyways, neat gardens and boutique shops. Explore the numerous little Greek churches or local cafes, or walk a few blocks to see impressive Greek and Roman ruins. Overnight in Athens.

Day 4 | Saturday, September 27: Athens and Cruise Embarks

Day 5, Sunday, September 28: Thessaloniki/Macedonia

Enjoy an early lunch aboard the ship before boarding our coach for a sightseeing tour of Thessaloniki (Acts 17:1-9).  Thessaloniki is a beautiful city featured in two letters of Paul to its new believers. We’ll visit several sites, including the famous Roman Rotunda, White Tower along the seafront promenade, the Church of St. Demetrios, the statue of Alexander the Great plus great monuments of the Roman age. The coach brings us back to the port in time for dinner.

Day 6 | Monday, September 29: Kusadasi/Ephesus

Enjoy lunch aboard ship as we arrive at the Port of Kusadasi. After lunch it’s off to our to Ephesus (Acts 19) and more. One of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world, Ephesus holds numerous significant sites that will inspire and amaze. We’ll tour this marvelous city including the 24,000-seat theatre where we’ll learn about Paul’s message to the Ephesians. Group picture at the World Heritage Site of the Celsus Library (pictured). We’ll stroll the marble colonnades of Curetes Street to visit Trajan’s Fountain, Hadrian’s Temple, Scholastica Baths and the astonishing Terrace Houses. Don’t miss the ancient toilets, the billboard and the temples where Paul preached!  Arriving back at port at the end of the day, you are free to explore the beautiful little port, buy some famous Bergama cheese, or return to the ship to enjoy onboard activities, eat or lounge.

Day 7 | Tuesday, September 30: Island of Crete

The largest island of Greece, Crete plays an important role in the ministry of Paul and ancient human history. He visited here after his first imprisonment in Rome and left Titus here to plant and encourage the new congregations of believers. We port in Heraklion and drive to the nearby spectacular ancient capital of the Minoans – Knossos. This was the first civilization in Europe after the flood and is known as Europe’s oldest city. We’ll step back in time thousands of years before Christ to visit the Palace of Knossos and other archaeological treasures.  Back in port, you have free time to enjoy coffee overlooking the Mediterranean and shop. Dinner on-board and overnight sailing to Santorini.

Day 8 | Wednesday, October 1: Island of Santorini

Prepare to be overwhelmed by the beauty that is Santorini. A favorite among travelers to Greece, this island inspires with jaw-dropping views, pristine beaches, and towns that cling to volcanic hillsides providing some of the most picturesque views you can imagine. This excursion is called the “Essence of Santorni.” We’ll see what makes it special with time to enjoy the quaint towns of Oia and Kamari. We’ll have time to on the beach plus explore an 11th Byzantine church – the best example of architecture from that period. We end the day in the mountain-top village of Fira for breathtaking views. A panoramic cable car ride takes us down to the port where you’ll have the rest of the day and all evening to enjoy the sites, sounds, and tastes of the island. Many guests will eat dinner onboard the ship then have all evening to stroll the scenic port. The Ship doesn’t depart until after Midnight.

Day 9 | Thursday, October 2: Island of Mykonos

Enjoy a free day to explore Mykonos town with Dwight and Anita or at your leisure. Soak in the sun along the beach or stroll to the ancient villages and churches. Perhaps you want to enjoy classic cafes along the waterfront? But don’t miss the world-famous windmills.

Day 10 | Friday, October 3: Island of Milos

To end our island-hopping adventure, we have a fun and unique day planned for you! While the Bible doesn’t mention Milos by name, many scholars say descriptions of one of Paul’s shipwrecks matches this beautiful island. If true, it’s a wonder he ever left! Our full-day excursion is called “Nostalgic Milos” and includes a mini cruise! We drive to the south side of the island and board a boat bound for a what was once a real pirate lair! You’ll have a chance to swim from the boat, or enjoy the white sand of Gerondas Beach. We then visit the quaint village of Plaka and explore its cobblestone streets and blooming gardens. We’ll have lunch and explore an area that looks like the moon and capture some of the most interesting photos for friends and family back home.

Day 11 | Saturday, October 4: Return and Overnight in Athens for Corinth tour

Today we arrive back in Athens. After breakfast, we’ll disembark the ship and board our private motorcoach for a scenic drive along the coastal road for a private tour of Corinth, home to Paul for 18 months (Acts 18:1-22). We’ll stop at the amazing Corinthian Canal dug between two seas that once separated ancient Sparta from other warring city-states. Guided tour of the streets of Ancient Corinth walked by the Apostle Paul, Priscilla, and Aquilla whom he stayed with during his visit. In Corinth Paul met Aquila and Priscilla, Jews recently expelled by Emperor Claudius from Rome. We’ll see the actual stone seat where Paul was presented for judgment, the amazing Erastus Stone (Romans 16:23; Acts 19:21-22; 2 Timothy 4:20) which is evidence of Paul’s friend. Return to Athens in the afternoon for a free time.

Day 11 | Sunday, October 5: Depart for USA

After breakfast and check-out we’ll board our motorcoach for the drive to the airport.

Athens Lodging 3-Night, 4-Days: The Athenaeum Luxury Hotel in Athens

In Athens, we’ll enjoy the brand-new 5-Star Athenaeum Luxury Hotel in the upscale and safe Plaka neighborhood near the Acropolis. This will be our home from Thursday to Saturday as we tour Athens and and upon our return a week later for one night as we explore Corinth.

Just steps from the Temple of Zeus and with the Acropolis in site, the Athenaeum has a sweeping view of both the Acropolis and Athens with rooftop dining.

The hotel is near the pedestrian walk unifying the most important archaeological sites and near the trendy areas of Gazi and Kerameikos. Framed by a museum-quality modern sculpture at the entrance, it is a superior hotel with an elegant old-world charm and modern conveniences. Guests of the hotel enjoy a host of modern living amenities.  The service is attentive and guest rooms are tastefully appointed, some with a spectacular view of the Acropolis and other famous sites.

From rooftop lounges rich in sunbathing facilities, outdoor Jacuzzis and a unique outdoor cafe/bar and restaurant with breathtaking views, to spacious dining areas – it’s easy to sit back and take in all the surrounding beauty and history.

You’ll enjoy a daily breakfast buffet as part of your Steps of Paul package.

About Our Cruiseliner, the Journey

We’ll be sailing on the Celestyal Journey, the newest ship in their award-winning fleet. In 2023, Celestyal was ranked by USA Today travel editors and readers as a Top 10 cruise companies in the world for boutique cruising. It came in at number 6 – ahead of many better-known cruise experiences such as Viking Cruises.

The Journey offers a relaxed experience through its Junior Dream Suites and Cosmos Cabins. This is a comfortable, 12-deck mid-size ship that can host just 1,200 passengers at full capacity.  The staterooms offer far more than just a place to sleep; they are designed as a sanctuary to unwind and relax as guests embark on their adventures on the Aegean Sea. You’ll love the warm and intimate ambiance that sets Celestyal apart from the impersonal mega-ships.

Love food? The Journey guides guests on a curated culinary “journey,” indulging their taste buds through the Mediterranean and beyond. Guests can enjoy moonlight dining in Thalassa and Taverna. Enjoy daytime snacks or anytime dining in the Greek Deli and Pizza Oven. Guests can head further afield with everything grilled at Grill Seekers or savor an Asian-inspired menu, designed to give tastebuds a treat treatment at Pink Moon. Guests can even learn from Master Chefs at the cooking demonstration area or go full-star treatment with a private dining experience at the new Chef’s Table. After a gastronomic adventure, guests can sip and stargaze at the new Fizz Club, savor the old and new world at The Grapevine Wine Cellar or relax with coffee or drinks to mellow piano tunes at the Blue Bar & Lounge.

• Eight specialty dining experiences, including the private chef’s table, live cooking demonstrations, Asian cuisine at Pink Moon, all-day dining at the Greek Deli or Pizzareia, and fresh Mediterranean bites from Smoked Olive. You can even have an American drive-in experience to enjoy burgers, fries and a soda.
• Eight lounges, some with live music and views of the sea
• World-class cruise entertainment will spoil you, including the nightly live show in the 2-deck Amphitheater, live music throughout the ship, cooking workshops and inspiring lectures.
• Two idyllic glittering pools (including one with a retractable) and Jacuzzis offering spectacular views and connectivity with the sea, numerous open-air sun decks, an entire deck dedicated to wellness and the immersive Sozo Spa
• A curated and immersive range of experiences highlighting local influence, both onboard and on shore
• Guests can work out in the ship’s fitness area with a wide range of equipment from cardio to weights and a dedicated fitness instructor or enjoy open-air exercise on the tennis and basketball courts and an amazing outdoor jogging track as the Greek isles slip by.

Four Levels Reserved for our Steps of Paul Tour and Cruise

We have created a custom-designed Steps of Paul Cruise with 3 nights and 4 days in Athens and Corinth. The below packages include everything mentioned above, except flights, for the 11-day experience.

We have secured a special rate and reserved a specific number of cabins at each level. Space is limited at each level so don’t delay to ensure you can reserve the stateroom level you desire.

1) Interior Stateroom Cruise/Athens & Corinth Package:  $2669

2) Exterior Stateroom Cruise/Athens & Corinth Package: $2909

3) Junior Balcony Suite Cruise/Athens & Corinth Package: $3019

Junior Dream Suites (SJA level) on higher decks (21 sqm) can accommodate up to 3 persons, with 2 lower beds or a queen and a single sofa bed, bathroom with jet tub or shower, telephone, hair dryer, safety deposit box, TV, panoramic windows/doors with balcony, refrigerated mini-bar.

4) Junior Balcony Suite Cruise/Athens & Corinth Package: $3139

Junior Dream Suites (SJB) on upper decks with prime locations(21 sqm) can accommodate up to 3 persons, with 2 lower beds or a queen and a single sofa bed, bathroom with jet tub or shower, telephone, hair dryer, safety deposit box, TV, panoramic doors/windows and balcony, refrigerated mini-bar.

Flights:

Flights are booked as a group from Kansas City but arrangements can be made for those traveling from other airports. We will leave as a group and arrive in Athens as a group and be transported to our hotel. If you are traveling to other places before or after the Steps of Paul tour, let us know.

Our group reservations are with American Airlines from Kansas City to Philadelphia, then non-stop to Athens. $1960 pp round trip. Don’t live in Kansas City? We can arrange for your flight to meet us in Philadelphia for our international departure.

How to Register

For questions or to register, call Dwight and Anita at 816-540-5517 at any time of day or email Dwight and Anita HERE.

The Widamans handle registration details using the Celstyal Agent Portal on behalf of guests. Upgrades for dining, drinks and internet can be purchased at a later date.

We have secured a custom package rate for everything above and special rates and accommodations are only available as a package with Heartland to Holyland Tours. Registration dues of $160 per passenger cover additional Steps of Paul tour features not provided by Celestyal.

Mobility of Guests

The Steps of Paul tour includes walking over cobblestone streets, through archaeological digs, ancient temples and other ruins. It includes taking outdoor stairs to the top of the Acropolis (an elevator may or may not be available on that day), winding streets with inclines on various islands and Corinth and walking tours. It is not for those using walkers, wheelchairs or those who doubt their mobility in such circumstances. Guests must be able to keep up with the group and tour guide. If you have questions about your own limitations or further details of the physical requirements, contact Anita.

Items not included in the total cost of the tour

• Travel insurance is highly recommended. Ask us for what we’ve found works for our guests.
• Meals not listed on the itinerary and while away from the ship. Specialty dining not included in your package. Room service.
• On-board spa services, laundry, internet etc.
• Airline fares (we have a group rate)
• Fees associated with obtaining a passport, Globa Entry or other State Department services
• Personal expenses, room service, bar tabs
• European “Green” tax. 15 Euros per room per night (3 nights) in Athens. Totals 45 Euros only payable by guest.
• Tips for coach drivers and excursion guides.