Deckplan
Join us for a relaxing and informative voyage to some of the most idyllic islands in the Northern Aegean. A cruise aboard a small ship like the MS Monet is a wonderful way to experience the region, allowing access to many of the delightful, yet often overlooked islands with ease and without having to rely on the local ferries.
Mighty civilisations, including Macedonians, Thracians, Romans, Byzantines, Slavs and Turks, have left their mark on the islands of the Aegean and during our ten night itinerary we will truly be able to appreciate the fascinating history, undisturbed natural splendour, scenic towns and villages, and beautiful uncrowded beaches.
Setting sail from Athens, we have devised our itinerary to allow ample time to wander through the whitewashed villages and picturesque harbours of some hidden Greek island gems such Chios with its fortress-like Medieval villages, distinctive architecture and fragrant mastic trees, the volcanic landscapes of Limnos with its alluring capital of Myrina and the emerald paradise of Thassos, the most northerly of the Greek islands. Amongst the many ancient world highlights of our voyage are our visits to Thessaloniki, home to an array of Byzantine churches, featuring important early Christian mosaics, and Samothrace, where we visit the Sanctuary of the Great Gods temple complex, one of the great sites of the ancient world. In addition, we will visit one of Greece’s most extraordinary sights, Meteora, the ‘monasteries in mid-air’; the sheer spectacle of these dramatic rock formations will most certainly provide you with a lasting memory. Before our journey concludes in the captivating Turkish city of Istanbul, we will spend time in Canakkale where you can choose to visit the First World War trenches and cemeteries at Gallipoli or spend time exploring the ruins of the ancient city of Troy.
Our custom-made itinerary focuses on many islands that the mega cruise ships cannot access and, in addition to our included guided excursions, there will be ample time at leisure for some independent exploration. Beyond the fascinating sites, there is pristine coastline, beautiful mountainous scenery, pine forests, charming villages and superb beaches and with a maximum of only 50 guests, our trips ashore will be a pleasure as we explore with local guides.
Monet
We are delighted to have chartered the MS Monet, a 220 foot motor yacht accommodating a maximum of 50 guests. Originally built in 1970, MS Monet was converted and launched as a passenger ship in 1998, fully renovated in 2016 and upgraded again in 2018. If you find large resort style vessels accommodating many thousands of passengers attractive then of course this isn’t the vessel for you. However, if you prefer an informal and warm atmosphere more akin to a private yacht combined with an itinerary dedicated to both discovery and relaxation then you need look no further.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Athens, Greece.
Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to the MS Monet and embark. Enjoy welcome drinks and dinner as we sail this evening.
Day 2 Naxos.
The largest island of the Cyclades, Naxos offers a blend of ancient ruins, mountainous landscapes and sandy beaches. Arriving this morning we will sail by the ancient Portara, all that remains of an ancient temple built for Apollo and according to mythology where Theseus abandoned his love Ariadne after killing the Minotaur in Crete. After docking in the town we can stroll through the narrow alleys to the old castle of Hora, built by an Italian adventurer in the 13th century and walk past 14th century mansion houses, the cathedral and maybe visit the archaeological museum providing a journey through Naxian history. The afternoon is free to explore further at your own pace and we sail late for anyone wishing to try some of the island’s delicacies ashore this evening.
Day 3 Chios.
The birthplace of Homer, Chios remained a significant Aegean island into the Byzantine period. Homer mentions the island by name several times in the Odyssey, calling it ‘paipaloessa’, or craggy, a richly deserved epithet. The island is rich in ancient ruins and this morning we will visit the 11th century Monastery of Nea Moni, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important ecclesiastical monuments in Greece. Return to the MS Monet for lunch and this afternoon is free to explore the town of Chios independently. Alternatively, join a tour to the south of the island where we visit the beautifully preserved, 14th century fortress village of Mesta and the elaborately decorated houses of Pirgi enjoying time to wander through the maze-like streets.
Day 4 Skopelos.
This morning we cruise across the Aegean to the Sporades Islands arriving into the picturesque island of Skopelos at lunchtime. An afternoon walking tour will explore the labyrinthine streets lined with whitewashed houses with picture-perfect courtyards and colourful balconies. Those feeling active can walk to the Church of Panagitsa of Pirgos and the 13th century Venetian castle offering panoramic views over the town below and islands across the waters. We also learn about the rich history of the island at the Folklore Museum, housed in a renovated 18th century stately building which displays a fine collection of ceramics, paintings, frescoes and photos. We sail late tonight for anyone who wishes to take an after dinner stroll.
Day 5 Volos for Meteora.
Arrive today in Volos, the starting point of the expedition of Jason and the Argonauts from Greek Mythology, located in the Pagasetic Gulf at the foot of Mout Pelion. Leaving the port we will head through the fertile plains of Thessaly towards Meteora (“monasteries in midair”), one of the most extraordinary sights in Greece and in all of Europe. Rising from Thessaly’s valley are gigantic rocks on top of which are monasteries built by hermits some 600 years ago and which are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the monastery of Varlaam, originally founded in the 14th century and covered in fine frescoes and the monastery of Roussanou. We will enjoy lunch in a local restaurant before we return to Volos where you may want to take a walk along the pedestrianised seaside promenade, the Argonauts Way.
Day 6 Thessaloniki.
Since its foundation by King Cassander of Macedonia in 315 BC and named after his wife and stepsister of Alexander the Great, Thessaloniki has always been a metropolis. The long history of the city is evident in the varied architectural forms from the Hellenistic era up to the end of the 20th century as well as an astonishing Byzantine artistic heritage. This morning explore the city seeing the White Tower, the symbol of the city, the Galerious Arch, the Rotunda, St Dimitrios Church, the Citadel and the City Walls, from where you will have a marvellous view of the city and the Thermaic Gulf with Mount Olympus in the background. Alternatively drive to the Vergina Royal Tombs Museum which displays the superb, decorated facades of the temple-like tombs of King Philip II and a young prince (thought to be Alexander IV), the treasures found within them and a reconstruction of the Great Mound that originally marked the site of the Royal Tombs. The tombs were discovered in 1977-78 by the archaeologist Manolis Andronikos and until that time they were covered by a protective tumulus 13 metres high and 110 metres across. Return to the ship for lunch and enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore the city at your own pace.
Day 7 Samothrace.
After a morning at sea we arrive on the small island of Samothrace. This rarely visited island contains one of the ancient world’s great sites, the Sanctuary of the Great Gods, the site of important religious ceremonies. We will visit the main archaeological site including the Greek theatre, ruined temples and the ruins of a rotunda built for Arsinoe, one of the largest circular buildings from ancient Greece. Also see the replica of the statue of Nike, the original of which was discovered here in 1863 and now resides in the Louvre Museum.
Day 8 Thassos.
The most northerly of the Greek Islands, Thassos is also known as the Emerald Isle due to the dense woodland and pine forests which slope down to the sea. This morning an island drive will include the well preserved 18th century Monastery of Archangel Michael. Located on a cliff with lovely views over the Aegean and Thassos coastline, it has retained a collection of religious articles, the most important being a part of the Holy Nail from the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Return to the ship for lunch and the afternoon is free to explore the port town of Limenas at your own pace. Maybe visit the archaeological museum, the remains of the ancient agora or walk to one of the nearby beaches. We sail late for anyone wishing to take a stroll this evening.
Day 9 Limnos.
Awake in Myrina, the small capital of Limnos, an island steeped in mythology being the domain of the Greek god Hephaestus, the god of fire and metalworking, who fell on Limnos when his father, Zeus, threw him from Mount Olympus. A morning tour will cross the island to the archaeological site of Hephaistia, one of the island’s principal cities in Antiquity and an important religious centre. We can see the ruins of the ancient baths, theatre and palace as well as the sanctuary devoted to the Great Goddess of Limnos. Spend the afternoon at leisure in pretty Myrina, known for its romantic castle built over the rocky promontory. Maybe explore the castle or the picturesque Romeikos Gialos, which is lined with charming Neoclassical houses one of which contains the Archaeological Museum.
Day 10 Canakkale, Turkey.
Arrive in Turkey at the port of Canakkale, our base for a choice of excursions. Maybe visit the ancient city of Troy, where ongoing archaeological excavations have revealed nine different layers of cities superimposed in rings on a massive mound rising above the Plain of Ilium. It was at one of these cities, as legend has it, that the Greeks fought the Trojans as told by Homer in the Iliad. We will walk the walls that held Helen of Troy and look down at the plain where Achilles dragged the dead body of Hector. We can also visit the onsite Troy Museum. Alternatively, there will be an excursion to the Gallipoli Peninsula to see the World War I memorials which commemorate the Gallipoli campaign. It was here in 1915 that allied troops, mainly from Australia and New Zealand, landed intending to quickly defeat the Ottomans and facilitate ships to pass through to Dardanelles to capture Istanbul. However, the landings were contained by the Ottoman troops and trench warfare soon took hold leading to thousands of deaths. We will visit the memorials at Anzac Cove and Chunuk Bair. Return to the ship and spend the afternoon at sea as we cruise through the Dardanelles Strait.
Day 11 Istanbul to London.
Be on deck this morning as we cruise into Istanbul. We will disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for the return scheduled flight to London.
Dates and Prices
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £300 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY
Prices per person based on double occupancy
| 6 to 16 May 2026 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| D Twin/Double with portholes on Camille/Parisien Deck | £4995 | £4695 |
| C Twin/Double with windows on Parisien/Lumiere Deck | £5395 | £5095 |
| B Superior Double with windows on Lumiere Deck | £5895 | £5595 |
| A Deluxe Double with windows on Lumiere Deck | £6495 | £6195 |
| D Twin/Double with portholes on Camille/Parisien Deck for sole use | £6495 | £6195 |
Tour Reference Code: SCMO060526
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • 10 nights aboard the MS Monet on a full board basis • House wine, beer & soft drinks with lunch and dinner • Noble Caledonia onboard team • Shore excursions • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
Monet
We are delighted to have chartered the MS Monet, a 220 foot motor yacht accommodating a maximum of 50 guests. Originally built in 1970, MS Monet was converted and launched as a passenger ship in 1998, fully renovated in 2016 and upgraded again in 2018. If you find large resort style vessels accommodating many thousands of passengers attractive then of course this isn’t the vessel for you. However, if you prefer an informal and warm atmosphere more akin to a private yacht combined with an itinerary dedicated to both discovery and relaxation then you need look no further.
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Ship Directory
Ship Directory
Please find below further details pertaining to the ship or click on the adjacent Directory to download.
We are delighted you have chosen the MS Monet for your upcoming voyage and hope this information answers any questions you may have pertaining to the vessel.
SHIP TECHNICAL DETAILS:
Cabins: 28
Crew: 29
Cruise speed: 9 knots
Length: 68 metres
Width: 10 metres
Draft: 3.6 metres
Built: 1970
Year refurbished: 2018AIR-CONDITIONING
The ship is centrally air-conditioned throughout.
ALARM
An alarm will be sounded in the event of an emergency. Please follow the instructions provided on board for what to do should an emergency occur. Life jackets are stowed in the closet in your cabin.
BAR/BEVERAGES
Beer, wine and soft drinks are included with lunch and dinner on board. Outside of mealtimes, a selection of wines, spirits and soft drinks are available to purchase from the bar. There is also a self-serve tea and coffee station in the Lounge.
CABIN SIZES & FACILITIES
All cabins are designed for comfort and have twin beds or fixed double beds. Facilities include en-suite bathroom with shower, television, mini-bar, safe, central air-conditioning and hairdryer. Category D (Camille & Parisian) cabins range in size from 9 to 14 square metres and feature two portholes. Please note that cabin numbers with twin beds are 104-107, 112, 119 & 205. All other cabins feature fixed double beds. Category C (Parisian & Lumiere) cabins range in size from 12 to 14 square metres and feature a window. Please note that cabin numbers with twin beds are 210-215. All other cabins feature fixed double beds. Category B (Lumiere) cabins are 17 square metres and feature windows and a double bed. Category A (Lumiere) cabins range in size from 21 to 22 square metres and feature windows and a double bed.
CURRENCY
It is a good idea to exchange some of your funds at a bank before leaving home. Most international airports also exchange funds, though they often charge higher exchange fees. The ship does not facilitate any currency exchange. The currency on board the MS Monet is Euros.
DAILY PROGRAMME
A Daily Programme, detailing the following day’s arrangements as well as any specific information about the day’s activities is produced on board and delivered to your cabin each evening.
DIETARY REQUIREMENTS
If you have any dietary requirements such as vegetarian, low salt, gluten free and low cholesterol, please notify the Reservations Department in advance. We regret that not all dietary requirements can be guaranteed. If you have any specific or special foods that you require we recommend that you take some with you although we will endeavour to accommodate your needs. Once on board, please speak to the Chef or Hotel Manager at dinner on your first night to reconfirm your requirements.
DISEMBARKATION
Disembarkation times will be provided by your Cruise Director or Tour Manager prior to the end of your cruise. This will include transfer information (where applicable).
DRESS CODE
On board the emphasis is on comfortable and casual clothing at all times. The dress code is very informal. You may like to wear smart casual clothing for the welcome and farewell dinners. Please note that no ties or jackets for gentlemen or occasion wear for ladies is required.
ELECTRICITY
Voltage is 220V/50Hz (European standard) and a 220V razor socket. This is only suitable for low voltage electrical appliances, e.g. mobile phone or camera chargers. Adaptors for hairdryers, mobile phones etc. can be borrowed from Reception but we recommend that you bring a two-pin European adaptor for the 220V plug. Hairdryers are provided for your convenience in the bathrooms.
EMERGENCY & SAFETY PROCEDURES
It is mandatory that all guests participate in the safety briefing, which is normally scheduled to take place prior to departure from the port of embarkation. In the unlikely event of an emergency you will be informed by a loudspeaker announcement. Please collect your lifejacket from the cabin, proceed to the marked Muster Station and follow instructions given by the Captain or crew members.
GRATUITIES
Gratuities have been included in your holiday price.
HEALTH & HYGIENE
In order to maintain health standards you will find hand sanitisers at all important contact points around the vessel.
HOUSEKEEPING
Housekeeping is available twice per day, in the morning and afternoon.
LAUNDRY SERVICE
There is a laundry service available for an additional charge. There is no dry cleaning service.
LIBRARY
There is a small library located in the Lounge.
LIFE JACKETS
The vessel is equipped with life jackets which can be located in the cabins. Additional life jackets can be obtained in the muster station from the crew.
LIFT
Please note that there is no lift on board.
LOST PROPERTY
Lost property can be handed in to the ship’s reception. Before you disembark the ship, please check your cabin to ensure you do not leave anything behind. If you discover you have left any items behind, please contact Noble Caledonia directly. If we are able to recover your item(s) we will contact you to arrange delivery or collection and to advise of any associated costs.
MEALS
Meals are served in a single seating with unassigned tables, for an informal atmosphere and easy mingling. Weather permitting, some meals are served al fresco on the Lumiere Deck. The menu is international, with a focus on local specialities.
MEDICAL SERVICES
MS Monet has crew members trained in first aid and further medical services can be obtained at ports of call.
PAYMENTS ON BOARD
All charges for services provided and products purchased on board must be settled in cash (Euros) or by credit card (Mastercard & Visa) before final disembarkation from the ship.
POST
Although reception staff are happy to post letters on your behalf, they may not be able to do so straight away or at the port of call at which you make such a request. Some postal services are unreliable and letters or postcards that you ask to be delivered on your behalf may be delayed or even lost en route.
QUESTIONNAIRES
Your comments are important to us therefore before your cruise ends, you will receive a questionnaire. We are always looking for ways to improve your holiday experience and appreciate the time you take to complete the questionnaire.
SAFE
Your cabin is equipped with a personal safe. Please take great care with your money, jewellery, cameras, binoculars, documents and any other articles that you retain in your personal control.
SAFETY DRILL
The safety briefing will take place prior to sailing. All guests must attend this compulsory and important exercise. Please listen for the announcements.
SMOKING
Aboard the MS Monet, the comfort, enjoyment and safety of all guests are paramount. All cabins are non-smoking. Smoking is only permitted on open decks.
TOILETRIES
Shampoo, conditioner, shower gel and hand soap are provided in your bathroom.
VISITORS
For the safety and security of all passengers no visitors are allowed on board the ship.
WATER
The tap water on board is drinkable. There is also a water dispenser in the bar where water bottles can be refilled on request. One bottle of water is provided per passenger per day.
WI-FI
Complimentary Wi-Fi access is available on board. Depending on the ship’s location, there may be times when the connection is very slow or is disrupted and the same level of connectivity that you enjoy at home cannot be expected on board.
V.1 JULY 2022
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Deck Plan
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Deckplan
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Tour Extensions
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If you would like to spend some time in Istanbul after your cruise, we are offering a two night hotel extension inclusive of guided tours.
Hagia Sophia
The Itinerary
Day 1 Istanbul, Turkey.
Disembark after breakfast and spend the morning at the impressive Topkapi Palace, a complex of buildings and annexes that was used as the Imperial residence of the Ottoman Sultans for nearly 400 years. After lunch we will check in to our hotel and have the remainder of the day at leisure. (B, L)
Day 2 Istanbul.
After breakfast at the hotel, we start our exploration of Istanbul at the Hippodrome, the centre of civic life in the capital of the Ottoman Empire. Next, see the nearby Blue Mosque, named for its glorious 17th century painted tiles; and the Hagia Sophia, first a Byzantine patriarchal basilica and now an imperial mosque. After lunch in a local restaurant a short walk brings us to the Basilica Cistern, which dates back to the 6th century and is one of the most magnificent, covered cisterns in Istanbul. Return to the hotel for an evening at leisure. (B, L)
Day 3 Istanbul to London.
After breakfast we transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London. (B)
Prices per person based on double occupancy
16 to 18 May 2026 Category Price Twin £895 Single £1145 Price Includes: Two nights hotel accommodation, meals as indicated (B – Breakfast, L – Lunch), tours as described, Noble Caledonia Tour Manager, gratuities, transfers.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
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Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000