AdventureSmith Explorations’ distinctive trips offer new, immersive experiences in Greece, Croatia, Turkey, Albania and Montenegro
Travel in the Mediterranean has long been popular, and as travelers continue to seek out destinations where they can have unique, off-the-beaten-path travel experience, AdventureSmith Explorations is answering the call.
This summer and in 2024, the leader in small-ship adventure cruises is offering a host of new small ship Mediterranean cruises that suit a variety of travel preferences and budgets.
“We often hear from travelers that trips to the Mediterranean are on their bucket list, but they don’t necessarily want to have the same experience the throngs of tourists have in these locations,” said AdventureSmith Explorations founder and president Todd Smith. “Our guests are discerning travelers who want to make the most of their trip by visiting less frequented spots and incorporating immersive activities that are not only educational, but more intimately connect them to the people who call these remarkable destinations home.”
New for 2024, the Unexplored Greece: Ionian Islands Cruise itinerary travels west of Athens through the Corinth Canal and as far north as Corfu to explore some of Greece’s less frequented gems outside of the busier Aegean Sea. On this route, travelers will find themselves immersed in emerald landscapes, with opportunities to dip into sparkling turquoise waters and to explore vibrant port towns. No other Greek Island small ship cruises explore this region in such an in-depth way, offering the ability to connect with the uniqueness of Greek island life. Aboard the recently renovated 44-guest Harmony G, this 8-day cruise offers guests opportunities to experience Greek culture at their leisure. Optional excursions include everything from wine tasting to the exploration of museums rich with culture and history.
Also new this year, those interested in Croatia small ship cruises won’t want to miss the opportunity to book the newly designed southbound itinerary on the popularCroatian Coastal Cruising route. Starting this month, this 8-day adventure cruise aboard the 36-guest M/S Aurora with a purpose-built swimming platform now includes a stop on the colorful island of Brac, no long days at sea, and a little bit of everything — including nights at port for guests to dine on their own.
In 2025, small-ship Mediterranean cruises will offer more capacity and route options thanks to the arrival of the 102-guest National Geographic Orion. This small expedition ship, with a nearly 1:1 guest-to-crew ratio that ensures attentive service, has spent most of her time over the past few years in the Pacific Islands, but will fully relocate in early 2025 to host new itineraries including:
•Greek Isles Odyssey: Mythology, HIstory & Cerulean Seas. With a route that blends a mix of frequented and lesser-known islands from Santorini to Naxos and Paros, this 8-day cruise lets travelers explore quaint harbors and scenic villages from every angle: mythology, archaeology, natural wonders and culinary delights.
•Ancient Mediterranean Odyssey: Exploring Greece, Croatia & Albania. Travelers will explore sun-soaked beaches, charming port towns and a rich maritime history that dates to the Venetian Empire as they sail between Greece, Croatia and Albania. From Delphi to Dubrovnik, take in fascinating UNESCO World Heritage sites and immersive experiences such as oystering, participation in cooking and silk embroidery classes, and exploring sea caves, historic tunnels and charming town centers
•Crossroads of the Ancient World: Exploring Greece & Turkey. This 11-day journey is chock full of highlights and history. Travel age-old trade routes, hike in Paros, and explore Delos, the mythical birthplace of Artemis and Apollo. Take in a performance by the mystical Sufi dancers in Turkey and participate in a cooking class and wine tasting in Naxos
•Treasures of the Adriatic: Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast & Montenegro. Over 8 days, explore the winding lanes of medieval-walled cities from Kotor to Dubrovnik, and travel inland to pristine nature preserves, including the waterfall-laced Plitvice Lakes National Park. Go wine tasting, hiking, or learn about olive oil production in Montenegro. Delve into a centuries-old jewelry tradition on the island of Zlarin, and learn about the customs of silk embroidery, sword dancing and oyster farming from the people working to preserve these timeless traditions.
Along the way on all these Orion routes, swim, kayak and paddleboard in the turquoise waters and receive guidance from National Geographic photography and destination experts.
(AdventureSmith Explorations’ distinctive trips offer new, immersive experiences in Greece, Croatia, Turkey, Albania and Montenegro – AdventureSmith Explorations)
