Join Fr. Jim DeGrassa, Fr. Matt Tralies, Fr. Zachary Navit, and Cloverdale Travel Tour Escort Fulvio Bracciali on an unforgettable journey through Greece, where the story of St. Paul comes alive amid breathtaking islands, legendary ancient cities, and the sparkling waters of the Aegean Sea.

Following in the footsteps of the Apostle to the Gentiles, this extraordinary adventure combines a spectacular 4-night Greek Islands & Turkey Cruise aboard the Celestyal Discovery with an inspiring exploration of mainland Greece. Along the way, you'll experience biblical history, fascinating ancient civilizations, stunning landscapes, and the warm hospitality that has made Greece one of the world's most beloved destinations.

Begin in Athens, the birthplace of democracy, philosophy, and the Olympic Games, before setting sail from the nearby port of Lavrion. Cruise to the beautiful islands of Mykonos, Patmos, Rhodes, Crete, and Santorini, as well as the remarkable ancient city of Ephesus, where every stop offers its own blend of history, culture, and unforgettable scenery.

Walk the marble streets of Ancient Ephesus, where St. Paul preached for more than two years, and celebrate Mass near the House of the Virgin Mary. Visit the sacred Cave of the Apocalypse on Patmos, where St. John received the visions recorded in the Book of Revelation. Explore the medieval streets of Rhodes, admire the Cathedral of St. Titus in Crete, and take in the breathtaking views, whitewashed villages, and world-famous sunsets of Santorini.

After your cruise, continue to Ancient Corinth, where St. Paul established one of the earliest Christian communities and later wrote two of his New Testament letters. Stand atop Mars Hill in Athens, where Paul boldly proclaimed the Gospel, then journey north to Delphi, home of the legendary Oracle of Apollo, the soaring monasteries of Meteora, Berea, Thessaloniki, Philippi, and Kavala, where Paul first set foot on European soil.

This unforgettable journey follows the route:

Athens (2 nights), 4-Night Greek Islands & Turkey Cruise, Athens (1 night), Kalambaka (1 night), Thessaloniki (2 nights)

11 Days • 10 Nights (6 hotel nights plus 4 cruise nights)

Whether you're inspired by the life of St. Paul, captivated by Greek mythology and ancient history, or simply dreaming of island sunsets, charming villages, delicious Mediterranean cuisine, and crystal-clear waters, this journey offers the perfect blend of faith, culture, history, and adventure—creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Athens & Greek Islands Cruise, 6 Nights

Your journey begins in Athens, one of the world's oldest cities and the birthplace of democracy, philosophy, and Western civilization. Home to iconic landmarks like the Acropolis and Parthenon, Athens blends ancient history with vibrant modern life. After settling into your hotel and enjoying a welcome dinner, you'll transfer the following morning to the port of Lavrion to begin your unforgettable four-night cruise through the Greek Islands and Turkey.

Your first stop is the enchanting island of Mykonos, famous for its whitewashed homes, charming windmills, colorful waterfront, and lively atmosphere. Wander its winding streets, browse local boutiques, relax at a seaside café, or simply soak in the beauty of one of Greece's most iconic islands before sailing across the sparkling Aegean.

Next, travel to Ancient Ephesus, one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world and home to one of the earliest Christian communities founded by St. Paul. Celebrate Mass near the House of the Virgin Mary before exploring the magnificent Library of Celsus, marble streets, and the Great Theatre where Paul boldly preached the Gospel. As you walk these ancient ruins, you'll step back into the world of the Roman Empire.

Later, continue to the peaceful island of Patmos, where St. John received the visions recorded in the Book of Revelation. Visit the revered Cave of the Apocalypse and the Monastery of St. John, then enjoy the island's charming harbor, quiet villages, and relaxed Aegean atmosphere.

Your cruise then brings you to historic Rhodes, where St. Paul landed during his missionary travels. Explore the beautifully preserved medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visit the Acropolis of Lindos overlooking the sea. Rhodes is also remembered as the home of the legendary Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Continue to Heraklion, Crete, where tradition recalls St. Paul's voyage toward Rome. Visit the Cathedral of St. Titus before discovering why Crete is famous for its rich mythology, exceptional olive oil, local cheeses, and welcoming Mediterranean culture.

Your final cruise stop is spectacular Santorini, the "Black Pearl of the Aegean." Admire breathtaking views from the village of Oia, perched high above dramatic volcanic cliffs. Famous for its dazzling sunsets, whitewashed villages, blue-domed churches, and distinctive wines grown in volcanic soil, Santorini is one of the most photographed islands in the world.

After disembarking in Lavrion, travel to Ancient Corinth, where St. Paul spent nearly two years establishing one of the earliest Christian churches. Visit the Bema where Paul stood before Gallio, explore the Temple of Apollo and the Roman Agora, and experience the city's remarkable blend of biblical and classical history. The surrounding countryside is also known for its vineyards, olive groves, and authentic Greek flavors.

The following morning, celebrate Mass before touring the magnificent Acropolis and the iconic Parthenon, enduring symbols of ancient Greece. Then ascend nearby Mars Hill (the Areopagus), where St. Paul delivered his famous sermon about the "Unknown God" (Acts 17). From this historic viewpoint, enjoy sweeping views of Athens while reflecting on Paul's mission to share the Gospel.

Delphi & Meteora, 1 Night

Leave Athens behind as you journey to Delphi, once regarded by the ancient Greeks as the center of the world and home to the legendary Oracle of Apollo. Surrounded by the beautiful slopes of Mount Parnassus, this remarkable archaeological site offers a fascinating glimpse into Greek mythology and ancient history before continuing north to Kalambaka.

The next morning, discover the awe-inspiring Meteora Monasteries, a UNESCO World Heritage Site unlike anywhere else in the world. Perched atop towering sandstone pillars, these centuries-old monasteries combine breathtaking scenery with deep Christian heritage. Their dramatic setting has also made Meteora a favorite backdrop for films and photographers from around the globe.

Thessaloniki, Berea, Philippi & Kavala, 2 Nights

Continue north through Berea (Veria), where the people were praised in Scripture for eagerly receiving and studying St. Paul's message. Arrive in Thessaloniki, Greece's vibrant second-largest city, where Paul preached the Gospel and later wrote his First and Second Letters to the Thessalonians. Today, the city is known for its lively waterfront, bustling cafés, rich history, and outstanding cuisine.

A full-day excursion takes you to Philippi, where Paul and Silas were imprisoned and where Lydia became the first Christian convert in Europe. Visit the riverside traditionally associated with her baptism and explore the impressive ruins of this ancient Roman city, including its forum, theater, and early Christian basilicas.

Continue to nearby Kavala, ancient Neapolis, where St. Paul first stepped onto European soil during his second missionary journey. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the picturesque harbor, lined with cafés, fishing boats, and waterfront views, before visiting St. Nicholas Church and returning to Thessaloniki.

As your journey comes to a close, you'll return home having followed in the footsteps of St. Paul while discovering the extraordinary history, mythology, culture, cuisine, and natural beauty that make Greece one of the Mediterranean's most unforgettable destinations.

Early bird pricing through October 9, 2026:

• $5,250 per person based on double occupancy (shared room)

• $7,650 for single occupancy (solo room)

Pricing after October 9, 2026:

• $5,500 per person based on double occupancy (shared room)

• $7,850 for single occupancy (solo room)

External cabin upgrades are available as an Add-On.

Introducing the Celestyal Discovery, thoughtfully designed to deliver an unforgettable cruising experience throughout the Greek Islands and Eastern Mediterranean. Welcoming up to 1,360 guests, this contemporary vessel combines modern comforts with warm Greek hospitality, creating a relaxed and inviting atmosphere at sea.

Every detail on board has been designed with guest comfort in mind. Spacious public areas, stylish lounges, and a variety of dining venues provide the perfect setting to unwind between ports. Whether enjoying panoramic ocean views from the open decks, relaxing by the pool, or gathering with fellow travelers over a meal, every day aboard offers new opportunities to relax and explore.

The ship features an impressive selection of restaurants, cafés, bars, and entertainment venues, along with wellness facilities including a spa, fitness center, and jacuzzis. Throughout your voyage, attentive service and welcoming accommodations ensure every guest feels right at home while discovering some of the Mediterranean's most iconic destinations.

All staterooms are comfortably furnished and equipped with modern amenities, including private bathrooms, individually controlled air conditioning, television, telephone, safe, and ample storage space. Optional upgraded rooms offer outside views, allowing guests to enjoy breathtaking sea views from the comfort of their own rooms.

Ship Specifications

Construction: Originally built in 2003 (refurbished 2025)
Flag: Malta
Length: 663.5 ft (202.85 m)
Beam: 101 ft (30.8 m)
Draft: 25.2 ft (7.7 m)
Decks: 12
Maximum Passengers: 1,360
Crew Members: 492
Cruising Speed: 18 knots

Onboard Facilities & Features (some may require additional fees)

• Five restaurants and eateries

• Nine bars and lounges

• Theater and live entertainment

• Swimming pools and whirlpools

• Spa and wellness center

• Fitness center

• Shopping boutiques

• Shore Excursion Desk

• Casino

• Photo Gallery

• Medical Center

• Kids' Area

• Complimentary Wi-Fi (select areas/packages)

• Elevator access throughout the ship

• Depart on your overnight flight to Athens

• Economy group airfare available as an optional Add-On

• Standard inflight meals and services

• Arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure

• Optional round-trip airport bus transportation in USA available as optional Add-On

Accommodation: Overnight Flight

Meals Included: Inflight Meals

• Arrive at Athens International Airport

• Meet your hosts and tour escort, Fulvio Bracciali

• Transfer to your deluxe hotel

• Along the way, see major historic sites and landmarks of Athens

• Welcome Dinner with the group

Accommodation: Hotel Divani Palace Acropolis 5* (or similar)

Meals Included: Dinner

• Early breakfast, check-out of hotel

• Celebrate Mass

• Transfer to Lavrion Cruise Port

• Board the Celestyal Discovery

• Lunch on board

• Cruise to beautiful Mykonos, where the final scene of The Bourque Identity was filmed, and famous for its whitewashed homes, charming windmills, colorful waterfront, and lively atmosphere

• Enjoy free time on island; optional shore excursions available for purchase

• Dinner and evening entertainment onboard

Accommodation: Celestyal Discovery

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

• Breakfast on board

• Visit the Turkish port of Kusadasi, where we will visit the House of the Virgin Mary to celebrate Mass

• Explore Ancient ruins of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world, whose inhabitants were the recipients of St. Paul's famous epistle

• Return to the ship for lunch

• Cruise to the Greek Island of Patmos, the island was ranked by Forbes Magazine in 2009 as Europe's Most Idyllic Place to Live

• Visit the Monastery of St. John and the Cave of the Apocalypse, where St. John the Evangelist wrote the Book of Revelation during his exile

• Dinner onboard ship

Accommodation: Celestyal Discovery

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

• Breakfast on board

• Explore the Acropolis of Lindos, where St. Paul stopped on his way back to Palestine for his trial and imprisonment

• Visit the medieval Old Town of Rhodes, one of Greece's most popular towns, home of the legendary Colossus of Rhodes (one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World), and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988

• Lunch onboard the ship

• Free time to enjoy the island and perhaps a swim at the nearby beach

• Evening onboard

Accommodation: Celestyal Discovery

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

• Breakfast on board

• Visit Heraklion, Crete, one of Greeks largest and most populated islands, where St. Paul met the owner and captain of a ship who wanted him about continuing his journey to Rome.

• See the Cathedral of St. Titus, a "true son of faith" to St. Paul

• Lunch onboard

• Cruise to the volcanic Santorini, known as the "Black Pearl of Aegean" - on of the most photographed islands in the world

• Visit Oia Village

• Enjoy breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea

• Evening onboard

Accommodation: Celestyal Discovery

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

• Breakfast on board

• Disembark Cruise at the port of Lavrion

• Meet our private motorcoach and enjoy the scenic coastal road to Corinth, where Christopher Nolan's 2026 film The Odyssey was filmed. This is where St. Paul established a thriving church and wrote 2 epistles

• Tour Ancient Corinth, including Archaeological Museum, Bema, Agora, Temple of Apollo, Asklepion, and roman Odeon

• Walk in the footsteps of St. Paul

• Return to Athens for dinner and over night

Accommodation: Hotel Divani Palace Acropolis 5* (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner (B, D)

• Breakfast at hotel

• Celebrate Mass

• Tour the Acropolis and Parthenon, a former temple and massive place of worship and enduring symbol of Ancient Greece, democracy, and Western civilization

• Ascend the steps to site of Mars Hill (Areopagus), where St. Paul preached to the ancient Athenians about "the one and only God"

• View of the Acropolis and the Agora of Athens, the former center of the Athenian public life

• Free Afternoon at leisure to shop or relax

• Dinner and overnight in Athens

Accommodation: Hotel Divani Palace Acropolis 5* (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

• Breakfast at the hotel, check out of hotel

• Visit Delphi, where we will explore the Temple of Apollo and the archeological site and museum

• Drive to Kalambaka, check in to hotel

• Dinner at the hotel

Accommodation: Hotel Grand Meteora 5* (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

• Breakfast at hotel and check-out

• Visit the breathtaking Meteora Monasteries, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you will view the huge cliffs first built in the 14th century by monks

• Continue to Berea (Veria), the town evangelized by St. Paul, where he preached to the Jewish community and created an important church

• Arrive and Visit Thessaloniki, the second largest city in Greece and the city where St. Paul preached the Gospel and wrote two epistles during his missionary journey in 49-50 AD

• Check-in to the hotel, dinner at hotel

Accommodation: Hotel Capsis 4* (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

• Visit Philippi, named after Philip of Macedonia, the father of Alexander the Great

• See the site of Lydia's Baptism

• Explore ancient Philippi

• Visit Kavala (Ancient Neapolis), explore the seaport

• Return to Thessaloniki, free afternoon

• Dinner at hotel

Accommodation: Hotel Capsis 4* (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

• Early breakfast and check-out of hotel

• Transfer to Thessaloniki Airport

• Return flight to the United States

• Economy group airfare available as an optional Add-On

• Standard inflight meals and services

• Optional round-trip airport bus transportation in USA available as optional Add-On

• Depart with unforgettable memories of Greece and the Greek Islands

Accommodation: None

Meals Included: Breakfast

CUSTOMER TERMS & CONDITIONS

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & PILGRIMAGE EXPECTATIONS

This is an active itinerary requiring approximately 15,000 steps per day, often on uneven surfaces and including stairs. Participants should prepare in advance through a regular walking program.

As a pilgrimage, we commit ourselves to traveling together in patience, cooperation, and trust. Different foods, cultures, schedules, and unexpected events are part of the pilgrimage experience. We believe that the unexpected can be God’s way of offering us something—or someone—we otherwise would not have encountered.

WETRAVEL ACCOUNT & REGISTRATION MANAGEMENT

All registrations and payments are managed through WeTravel. Upon registering, each participant creates a personal WeTravel account, which allows you to view your balance, submit payments, and access your booking details.

Regardless of who enters the information, each registrant is solely responsible for the accuracy of all information entered into their WeTravel account, including name spelling (as it appears on your passport), contact details, and payment selections. Name corrections or changes requested after registration may incur additional fees or may not be permitted by suppliers.

Cloverdale Travel does not control WeTravel’s platform, account functionality, or processing fees. All online payments and refunds (when applicable) are subject to WeTravel’s terms and conditions.

PRICING & PAYMENT METHODS

Quoted prices are based on payment by check or cash, for which no processing fees apply.

All online payments are processed through WeTravel and are subject to non-refundable processing fees, which are charged directly by WeTravel and are not collected or retained by Cloverdale Travel.

Current online payment fees (subject to change by WeTravel):

• All online transactions (including ACH/bank transfer): 1% + $0.30 per transaction

• Credit/Debit Card Payments:

  • Visa / Mastercard: +2.9% (in addition to 1% + $0.30)

  • American Express: +3.9% (in addition to 1% + $0.30)

There are no online processing or service fees for registrations or payments mailed directly to Cloverdale Travel and paid by check.

Please note that check payments are typically processed once weekly on Saturdays.

Online registrations or payments may not be cancelled or refunded for the purpose of re-registering or re-paying by check (or another method) to avoid fees.
Any such request will be treated as a cancellation, and all applicable cancellation penalties will apply. Processing fees are non-refundable under all circumstances.

By registering, you authorize all charges in accordance with the payment plan and these Terms & Conditions.

CANCELLATION & REFUND POLICY

All cancellations must be received in writing. Telephone or verbal notifications do not constitute cancellation. A cancellation is effective only upon receipt of a signed Cancellation Request & Acknowledgment by Cloverdale Travel.

• 90 days or more prior to departure:
  Refundable minus $500 per person handling fee

• 90–60 days prior to departure:
  Refundable amounts exclude:

  • Initial deposit ($1,000)

  • $500 single supplement, if applicable

  • $500 group air cost, if applicable

• Within 60 days of departure:
  All payments are non-refundable

Unused portions of the trip are non-refundable.

Cloverdale Travel cannot refund credit card, bank, or processing fees, nor premiums paid for travel insurance/protection plans.

TRAVEL PROTECTION / INSURANCE

Travel protection is optional but strongly encouraged. Plans are available through Travelex or your own provider. A Travelex link will be included in your confirmation email.

If you decline travel protection, you assume full financial responsibility for losses that might otherwise be covered by insurance.

PASSPORTS & TRAVEL AUTHORIZATIONS

A copy of your passport (photo page) is required for hotel and airline reservations. Please upload it or email it to info@cloverdaletravel.org.

Passports must be valid for at least six (6) months after the return date.

ETIAS (Europe):

Beginning in late 2026, most travelers entering Europe must obtain ETIAS travel authorization. ETIAS is not included and is the sole responsibility of the traveler. Authorization is obtained online and is typically valid for three (3) years or until passport expiration.

Israel ETA:
Beginning in 2025, travelers to Israel must complete the Israel ETA Application prior to arrival. This is also the traveler’s responsibility.

FLIGHTS

Group Air (Economy Class) is offered as an optional add-on.

Once issued, airline tickets are non-refundable and governed entirely by the airline’s terms.

• Seating is assigned by the airline as a group block

• Seating requests, upgrades, and frequent flyer numbers must be handled directly with the airline

• One checked bag and one carry-on are typically included, subject to airline policy

Cloverdale Travel is not responsible for airline schedule changes, seating assignments, aircraft substitutions, baggage policies, delays, or cancellations.

Participants with specific flight or seating needs are encouraged to make their own air arrangements and book the pilgrimage land-only.

Switching from Land + Air to Land-Only after booking incurs a $100 fee.

LAND-ONLY PACKAGES

Land-only services begin at the first hotel and end at the last hotel.

Participants arriving independently are responsible for making their own arrangements to meet the group. Airport transfers and activities outside the published land-only services are not included.

Typically not included in Land-Only packages:

• International airfare

• ETIAS or other visas/travel authorizations

• Travel protection/insurance

• Medical insurance

• Meals not specifically listed

• Beverages beyond those specified

• Donations at churches or shrines

• Personal expenses

• Gratuities (mandatory group gratuities may be billed separately and are non-refundable once invoiced)

ROOMING

Participants requesting roommates will be introduced to one another to make their own arrangements.

If a roommate is not secured by final payment, the single supplement will apply.

Single rooms are limited and typically capped at 20% of total room inventory.

PRICING CONDITIONS

Pricing is based on a minimum of 20 participants and an exchange rate of €1.15 = $1.00 USD. Prices may be adjusted due to:

• Fewer participants

• Exchange rate changes

• Fuel surcharges or tax increases

LIABILITY & RESPONSIBILITY

By registering and accepting these Terms & Conditions, you acknowledge that travel involves inherent risks. You agree that Cloverdale Group LLC, Cloverdale Travel, staff, contractors, vendors, Reverend Zachary Navit, and group leaders are not responsible for events beyond their control.

You voluntarily assume all risks and agree to hold harmless and indemnify the above parties from any claims arising from your participation.

Participants requiring special assistance must be accompanied by a paying companion who will provide that assistance.

Errors and omissions may occur in itineraries, pricing, or communications. Cloverdale Travel reserves the right to correct such errors, including billing adjustments, at any time.

KEY CLAUSES

• Cloverdale Travel acts solely as a tour operator and travel arranger. All transportation, accommodations, and other services are provided by independent suppliers. Cloverdale Travel LLC does not own, operate, or control these suppliers and is not responsible for their acts or omissions.
  

• Cloverdale Travel shall not be liable for any injury, loss, accident, delay, or irregularity resulting from acts or omissions of any company or person providing services included in the tour.

• Participant understands that international travel involves risks including illness, injury, transportation delays, and unforeseen circumstances. By participating in the pilgrimage, the traveler voluntarily assumes these risks.

• Cloverdale Travel shall not be liable for failure to perform its obligations when such failure is due to events beyond its control including acts of God, government actions, labor disputes, pandemics, natural disasters, or transportation disruptions.
  

• Cloverdale Travel shall not be liable for failure to perform its obligations when such failure is due to events beyond its control including acts of God, government actions, labor disputes, pandemics, natural disasters, or transportation disruptions.
  

• Travelers are responsible for ensuring they are physically able to participate in the pilgrimage and must carry adequate health insurance. Cloverdale Travel assumes no responsibility for medical care or expenses incurred during the trip.

ACCEPTANCE

By clicking “YES”, you confirm that you have read, understand, and agree to these Customer Terms & Conditions and the Terms of Service posted on the Cloverdale Travel website (www.cloverdalegroup.org).