Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel with a 54-year history of breaking boundaries, recently marked its highly anticipated return to service as Norwegian Jade made history, not only as the first ship in the NCL fleet to welcome guests back on board after 500 days but the first in the fleet to home port in Athens.

Norwegian Jade’s brand-new immersive and port-rich seven-day roundtrip Greek Isles itineraries were developed in close cooperation with the local government.

“Our long-awaited return to cruising the Mediterranean was a thrilling moment for our guests, crew and the destinations we visit, and the feedback from our guests regarding these new cruises has been wonderful “said Ben Angell, Vice President and Managing Director, NCL APAC.

“While many in Australia and New Zealand are still experiencing travel restrictions, the global cruise restart and the accelerating pace of vaccination programs mean it’s time to dust off the bucket list and start planning your next dream holiday. And if Norwegian Jade’s new itinerary has you dreaming of sailing around the Greek Islands, we have you well and truly covered. From swimming in the cerulean waters of Mykonos, strolling the cobbled alleyways and blue-domed buildings of Santorini, or learning about the region’s rich history in Athens. our immersive itineraries to the gorgeous Greek Isles are sure to delight even the most seasoned travellers,” he concluded.

Can’t wait to be in Greece? NCL’s EMBARK – The Series is the next best thing, chronicling the line’s return to sailing with a behind-the-scenes look at its Great Cruise Comeback.  The fourth episode, “Welcome Aboard,” will premiere on Friday 10 September at 10am AEST. It’s a chance for viewers to see and feel the emotions and excitement when crew reunite for the first time after many months, while showcasing the final preparations to ready the ship before the first guests embark in Athens.

Gorgeous Greek Isles voyages sailing in 2022 and 2023 include:

• Norwegian Jade’s seven-day Greek Isles: Santorini, Mykonos and Rhodes itinerary departing from Athens (Piraeus) on 14 August 2022 gives guests the opportunity to explore eight scenic ports in seven days for a true deep-dive into the best that the region has to offer. Memorable moments for this voyage include visits to some of the ‘must-see’ islands of the Greek Isles including Mykonos, Corfu, Kefalonia and Santorini. Guests on this voyage can look forward to the opportunity to explore Kusadasi – a destination steeped in history – with travellers able to discover the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, amongst other important sites. This spectacular voyage also calls into Rhodes, where cruisers can immerse themselves in the striking beauty of this extraordinary walled town boasting a rich past.

• Guests can relax and unwind while taking in some of the world’s most scenic vistas from on board Norwegian Jade when she embarks on her seven-day Greek Isles: Santorini, Mykonos and Istanbul cruise departing from Athens (Piraeus) on 9 October 2022. With this itinerary visiting seven ports in seven days – including some of the region’s most famous islands such as Mykonos and Santorini – guests will have ample time to experience a variety of adventures with several late evening departures. This unique voyage also visits distinctive ports-of-call including the vibrant city of Volos, where guests can unleash their inner historian at The Athanasakeion Archaeological Museum of Volos; as well as Istanbul – home to the memorable Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace – to name just a few of the city’s architectural masterpieces.
• NCL’s seven-day Greek Isles: Santorini, Patmos & Israel voyage departing from Athens (Piraeus) on 14 May 2023 offers an itinerary to delight the senses for those truly looking to escape from the daily grind. Offering a unique combination of some of the most iconic ports-of-call across Greece, Turkey, Cyprus and Israel, travellers will journey to distinctive destinations including Limassol, Santorini and Ashdod. Guests will relish a full day of exploring the vivid city of Haifa, Israel and the chance to visit several holy sites including Jerusalem. Additional highlights include the opportunity to take in the idyllic landscapes of Patmos, famous for being the site where the Apostle John is said to have written The Book of Revelations.  Guests can take a leisurely stroll through quaint villages while sampling some of the region’s culinary delights.

Norwegian Jade is the first of nine NCL ships which will offer immersive itineraries in the region through 2023. She boasts more than 16 dining options, allowing travellers to choose to enjoy a premium cut in Cagney’s Steakhouse one evening, or fine French fare in Le Bistro the next. Guests can take a spin on the dancefloor at Bliss Ultra Lounge or unwind with an ocean view cocktail at The Great Outdoors. Entertainment and activity options abound – from electric live shows to unwinding in one of the vessels outdoor hot tubs. Norwegian Jade also offers a variety of accommodation options to suit a range of different requirements.

Book a 2022 or 2023 voyage before 30 September and take advantage of NCL’s Take 5 offer*, providing up to $US2,900 in value.  Guests will receive 5 Free at Sea offers including a free beverage package, shore excursion credit, specialty dining package, wi-fi package as well as access to reduced rates for 3rd and 4th guests in a stateroom (on select sailings).

For more information or to book a cruise with NCL, please contact a travel professional; call NCL in Australia on 1300 255 200 or in New Zealand on 0800 969 283; or visit www.ncl.com.

SOURCE: Norwegian Cruise Line