With water that is as clear as glass, a history that intertwines with the epic stories from Homer's Iliad, and picturesque islands famous for their sandy beaches, the Ionian Sea is a peaceful paradise ripe for exploration.
Over centuries, the Ionian islands and the surrounding mainland have developed their own culture and identity, thanks to occupation by foreign rulers like the Venetians, the Turks and the British - still evidenced in the architecture.
With expertly crafted itineraries that visit Sicily, Kefalonia, Corfu and more, you could visit pretty seaside towns surrounded by white sandy beaches and rugged natural beauty. Explore ancient history in sites like Pylos, the mythological home of Neleus, son of Poseidon, and his son, Nestor - a leader in the Trojan Wars, and the site of one of the best-preserved Mycenaean palaces in Greece. And enjoy a taste of local life in shaded squares, people-watching over plates of locally sourced meze.
If this sounds like your idea of heaven, below you'll find the perfect holiday for you (it's a bold statement, but we'll back it up). Whether you're looking for a nautical experience like no other aboard our beautiful tall ships or something with plenty to divert during cruising (and plenty of options for dinner), these ocean cruises offer a fascinating voyage across the Ionia Sea.
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