In April, I was fortunate enough to experience the Viking cruise, Ancient Mediterranean Treasures, travelling from Istanbul, Türkiye to Athens, Greece.
Viking Vesta is a relatively new all-veranda small ship hosting just 998 guests, allowing for docking in ports where larger ships simply cannot venture. The ship exudes refined simplicity and contemporary Scandinavian aesthetics, creating an intimate, uncrowded atmosphere with sophisticated adults-only vibes and exceptional service throughout. The staff were incredibly attentive, offering a level of personalised service that truly elevated the experience, as did the numerous high quality dining options on board.
I was one of nine younger passengers on the ship and while I did turn a few heads, I never once felt out of place. I embraced the quiet comfort, making the most of every port while relaxing in comfortable luxury on board. I also found it wonderfully easy to connect with fellow travellers, sharing stories from our very different walks of life. The demographic was predominantly American and from the conversations and friendships I made, they were all the good kind!
The entry level rooms on a Viking cruise are nothing to sneeze at either. Our balcony room came with complimentary shore excursions at every port, free wifi, wine and beer included at lunch and dinner with refills, and open access to the spa including the snow grotto, sauna and steam room.
Istanbul, Türkiye
We began our journey in Istanbul and what a city! The eclectic blend of Eastern and Western cultures and the depth of history left me amazed. The included shore excursion took us on a panoramic bus tour of the city before venturing into the stunning Rüstem Pasha Mosque and finishing with free time to explore the iconic Grand Bazaar. It was a perfect taste of Istanbul, though it truly only scratches the surface. I would strongly suggest arriving a couple of days early to visit the iconic Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern and Galata Tower, catch a dervish dancer performance, and of course, indulge in the extraordinary food on offer.
In my spare time, I indulged in a hammam bath at Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı, which was quite possibly the best bathing experience of my life. Constructed between 1578 and 1583 to serve the levends, members of the Ottoman naval forces, the hammam is famed for its architectural innovations and majestic dome. We were welcomed with hibiscus tea before making our way into the communal women’s bathing room, where we relaxed on the warm stone before being bathed from head to toe. I have never felt so clean. Truly an unforgettable experience in an unparalleled historical setting.
Çanakkale (Troy), Türkiye
We said farewell to Istanbul and made our way to the port of Çanakkale for an included shore excursion to the ancient city of Troy. The tour was excellent. The different layers of civilisation uncovered throughout the site are utterly fascinating, a place where myth and history blend together. A wander through the downtown area to see the movie prop Trojan Horse made for a fun photo opportunity, before a short stroll around Çanakkale town and back to the ship.
Ephesus, Türkiye
Our next stop was Kuşadası, where we had the opportunity to visit the ancient city of Ephesus. It was quite busy, but our tour guide did a wonderful job keeping the group together. We walked the length of ancient Kuretes Street from the upper to the lower gate, passing the 2nd century Temple of Hadrian and the spectacular Great Theatre. The highlight for me was the Library of Celsus, built to house 12,000 scrolls and a truly outstanding example of Roman architecture that left me completely speechless.
We wrapped up the tour with a visit to a Turkish rug store where the art of rug making was explained. The silk rugs in particular caught my eye! We then spent some time exploring the bustling bazaar and took a quick trip up to the mountain peak before making our way back to the ship.
One tip for the port of Kuşadası: the man calling out for your attention as you attempt to board the ship is not trying to sell you anything. He is actually checking your cruise eligibility! After becoming quite skilled at ignoring the bazaar hagglers, I nearly ignored the wrong person.
Rhodes, Greece
Rhodes was our first port of call in Greece. With our included tour not until the afternoon, we took the opportunity to make the hour-long taxi drive out to the Lindos Acropolis, a recommendation from the cruise director and one I’m very glad I followed. The drive takes you to an iconic coastal village of whitewashed houses, turquoise bays and a striking clifftop ancient acropolis. The hike up is steep but well worth it, with the 4th century Temple of Athena and medieval fortifications built by the Knights of St John waiting at the top. I could have spent the entire day exploring the village, soaking up the spectacular views and dining at one of the rooftop restaurants.
The afternoon’s included tour was a walking tour of Rhodes Old Town, concluding at the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes. Personally, I found this one a little underwhelming. The palace is a 1940s reconstruction, which somewhat diminished the experience, and while I enjoyed exploring Rhodes overall, this is one tour I felt I could have navigated just as well without a guide.
Crete, Greece
Unfortunately, poor weather conditions prevented us from docking in Crete. While disappointing, it turned out to be a welcome reprieve from the busy pace of the holiday. I spent the day indulging in the food, lounging by the pool, enjoying the extra activities put on by the Viking staff, and of course, making the most of the Explorer’s Lounge bar throughout the day.
Athens (Piraeus), Greece
Our final port of call was Athens. With our included tour again not until the afternoon, we arranged a separate morning tour of the Athens Acropolis before making our way back to the ship via the Viking shuttle buses that ran regularly into the city centre.
Our afternoon shore excursion took us on a bus tour of the city before heading to the National Archaeological Museum for a guided tour. One important note for anyone planning a visit, the museum is set to close at the end of the year for a major five-year renovation project, so if it’s on your list, now is the time to go!
One final evening on board and we disembarked the following morning, carrying memories that will last a lifetime.
Final thoughts
Viking proved to me that there truly is no better way to travel. The understated elegance and contemporary Scandinavian design created a sophisticated experience from start to finish. I felt genuinely looked after at every turn, with ample opportunity to relax on board and indulge in the exceptional food, drinks and experiences. For travellers seeking a quiet, destination focused and premium travel experience, Viking is the answer.
