Brilliance of the Seas
January 25 – February 1, 2025
Day 1 New Orleans – Embarkation Day
Our cruising adventure on the highly rated Billance of the Seas begins from the vibrant port city of New Orleans. New Orleans, known as The Big Easy, weaves together music, cuisine, and culture, welcoming us to an amazing Carribean vacation.
Day 2 – Day at Sea
On our first day at sea aboard the Brilliance of the Seas, you will have a multitude of exciting activities to enjoy. Start your day with a leisurely breakfast while taking in panoramic ocean views, followed by exploring the various amenities onboard. You can opt to engage in onboard activities such as live shows, indulging in the ship’s spa, joining fitness classes, or simply unwinding by the pool with a refreshing drink. For the adventurous ones joining us, embark on a few more thrilling activities such as rock climbing, zip-lining, or perhaps indulge in a movie beneath the stars. Our first day at sea aboard the Brilliance of the Seas offers a perfect balance of relaxation, entertainment, and excitement, setting the tone for an unforgettable cruise.
Day 3 – Cozumel, Mexico
Today, we’ll be docked at the charming port of Cozumel, known for its array of thrilling shore excursions. From delving into Mexican cultural gems and natural marvels to indulging in activities like snorkeling, zip-lining, off-road escapades, dune buggy rides, culinary delights, and sailing voyages, there’s something for everyone. Whether you crave underwater marvels, heart-pounding thrills, or simply basking on stunning beaches, Cozumel’s shore excursions offer a diverse selection to create an unforgettable day full of memories.
Day 4 – Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico
Today it’s all about us exploring the port of Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico, where you will have a treasure trove of exciting shore excursions to choose from. From visiting the mesmerizing Mayan ruins at Chacchoben, Kohunlich, and Dzibanche—considered some of Mexico’s hidden gems—to indulging in activities like catamaran sailing, snorkeling, beach breaks, and tours to the Bacalar Lagoon, there is something for every type of adventurer. Whether you’re interested in cultural exploration, water activities, or simply relaxing on the beach, Puerto Costa Maya’s shore excursions promise a diverse range of experiences to make your visit memorable and enriching.
Day 5 – George Town, Grand Cayman
Get ready to explore George Town, Grand Cayman. You will enjoy a variety of captivating shore excursions on this Caribbean island to make the most of your day. From snorkeling adventures at Stingray City and Coral Garden to exploring the Crystal Caves, encountering turtles, experiencing the iconic Seven Mile Beach, and visiting the intriguing Hell area, there’s a diverse range of activities catering to various interests. Whether it’s relaxing on pristine beaches, diving into underwater wonders, or immersing in local culture through rum tasting and island exploration, George Town’s shore excursions promise an incredible and immersive experience for all visitors.
Day 6 & 7 – Day at Sea
During our last two days at sea, immerse yourself in a variety of onboard activities tailored to fulfill everyone’s desires. May we suggest starting your sea days with a delightful breakfast at a new spot you haven’t tried yet. After a delicious breakfast delve into a range of onboard activities. Whether you design on unwinding by the pool with a drink, hitting the fitness center, enjoying the spa for utter relaxation, joining fun classes like towel animal crafting, partaking in trivia challenges, or catching captivating live shows in the evenings – there’s a wealth of entertainment, leisure, and enrichment awaiting you. Customize your days at sea to create your ideal vacation, guaranteeing unforgettable moments aboard the Brilliance of the Seas.
Day 8 – New Orleans – Disembarkation Day
It’s not goodbye, but “we’ll see you again on our next cruising adventure.”
Sun Princess – July 9 – 19, 2025
Day 1 – Embarkation Day
As the starting point of our cruise, Athens, Greece offers a captivating blend of ancient history and modern vibrancy. With a recorded history spanning over 3,000 years, it stands as one of the world’s oldest cities and the birthplace of democracy. Athens was once a powerful city-state, celebrated for its contributions to democracy, the arts, education, and philosophy. Today, it remains a thriving center of commerce, nestled amidst the stunning landscapes of the Attic plain and surrounded by majestic mountains. From the iconic Acropolis to its symbolic significance as the heart of Greek culture, Athens sets the stage for an enriching and historically significant embarkation point for our journey.
Points of Interest
Acropolis
The Plaka
Temple of Olympian Zeus
Old Olympic Stadium
Athens Museums
Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion
Ancient Agora
Ancient Corinth, Corinth Canal and Corinth Museum
Day 2 – Day at Sea
Prepare for an amazing day as we embark on our first Day at Sea! Whether you seek relaxation, exhilarating fun, or a delightful blend of both, the Sun Princess has a plethora of experiences awaiting you. Embrace the boundless possibilities aboard the ship and enjoy unforgettable moments as we journey towards our next extraordinary destination. This is your day to indulge in the diverse offerings the Sun Princess has to offer and make lasting memories.
Day 3 – Kotor, Montenegro
Embark on a new adventure on day 3 as we make our first stop in the port of Kotor, Montenegro. Kotor provides a variety of diverse shore excursions tailored to meet the needs of every traveler. Choose from private or group boat tours to explore the iconic Lady of the Rocks, to immersive day trips encompassing scenic villages, historic sites, and natural wonders, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether it’s soaking in breathtaking views of the Bay of Kotor, meandering through the charming streets, or delving into the local culture and cuisine, the shore excursions in Kotor promise unforgettable adventures and enriching discoveries.
Points of Interest
St. Tryphon Cathedral
Maritime Museum
Budva
Njegusi
National Museum
Cetinje
Perast & Our Lady of the Rocks
Lastva
Day 4 – Corfu, Greece
Today we’ll be docked in Corfu, Greece, where travelers can embark on a variety of captivating shore excursions tailored to suit diverse preferences. From exploring the stunning beaches of Paleokastritsa and Glyfada, to discovering the historic landmarks such as the Achillion Palace and the Mouse Island, there are options for every interest. Whether it’s indulging in a gourmet culinary experience, venturing on a boat cruise to the Blue Caves, or simply immersing in the natural beauty of the island, Corfu’s shore excursions promise unforgettable adventures and immersive cultural discoveries.
Points of Interest
Corfu Town / Old Fortress
St. Spyridon Church
Paleokastritsa View Point
Monastery of Virgin Mary
Achilleion Palace
Koum Kouat Distillery
Mon Repos Estate
Mouse Island & Vlaherna View
Day 5 – Sicily (Messina), Italy
Discover the enchanting allure of Messina, Sicily, Italy – our next captivating destination. Indulge in an array of shore excursions, from wandering the historic city center to mesmerizing tours of quaint towns, scenic wineries, and the majestic Mount Etna. Additional experiences feature a journey to Taormina, Castelmola, ancient village ruins, and a delightful exploration of wine and culinary delights for unforgettable moments. Your time in the captivating region of Sicily is bound to create enduring memories.
Points of Interest
Mt. Etna
Taormina
Greek Theater
Corso Umberto
Messina/Duomo
San Michele Winery
Gival Jewelry Factory
Day 6 – At Sea
Today marks our second and final day at sea aboard the magnificent Sun Princess. Take your time to wander through the ship’s delightful amenities, perhaps venture into a new dining spot, pamper yourself with a relaxing massage, a dip in the pool to cool off, or immerse yourself in a captivating show at the main theater at night. Whatever you choose to do, make the most of your day and relish every moment of this memorable voyage!
Day 7 – Santorini, Greece
Today, our port of call is the famous bucket-list-worthy Santorini, Greece. Santorini has a plethora of captivating shore excursions for you to choose from. From tailored private tours offering personalized experiences to unforgettable volcanic island cruises with visits to hot springs, there’s a diverse range of options to explore the true beauty of Santorini. Whether it’s a catamaran tour with a delicious greek dinner, sightseeing half-day tours in small groups, or customizable private excursions to Oia, Fira, and Akrotiri, visitors can immerse themselves in the mesmerizing landscapes, gorgeous architecture and rich culture of this iconic Greek island. Santorini’s shore excursions promise memorable adventures and authentic experiences.
Points of Interest
Oia
Fira
Prehistoric Museum
Palaia & Nea Kameni – Santorini Volcano
Winery Tour
Black Sand Beach (Kamari)
Santorini Crater
The Mountain of Prophet Elijah
Day 8 – Mykonos, Greece
Today is our last stop in Greece and we’re visiting the breathtaking port of Mykonos. Today you can choose from a variety of amazing shore excursions. Explore the enchanting Mykonos Town with its iconic windmills and Little Venice, or dive into the island’s history at the Archaeological Site of Delos. There’s something to captivate every interest. From small-group tours to tailor-made private excursions, Mykonos’ shore excursions promise an unforgettable exploration of this stunning Greek island.
Points of Interest
Delos Archaeological Site & Museum
Town of Mykonos (Hora)
Little Venice & Windmills
Paraportiani Church
Mykonos’ Beaches
Panagia Tourliani Monastery
Aegean Maritime Museum
Delos Museum
Day 9 – Kusadasi, Turkey (for Ephesus)
Today we will arrive and dock in Kusadasi, Turkey, which serves as a gateway to the ancient city of Ephesus, travelers can indulge in a rich tapestry of shore excursions. From guided tours of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ephesus and visits to the House of Mary and Artemis Temple to traditional Turkish baths and historical explorations, there are diverse options catering to various interests. Whether it’s experiencing the allure of Ephesus’ historical significance, immersing in local culture, or savoring the scenic landscapes and wine, Kusadasi’s shore excursions promise an enriching and memorable exploration of this captivating region.
Points of Interest
Ephesus
House of the Virgin Mary
Basilica of St. John
Ephesus Museum
Terrace Houses
Sirince
Carpet Weaving and Shopping
Tour sites at guest’s discretion
Day 10 – Istanbul, Turkey
Our trip may be almost over but perhaps we’ve left the best for our last port. When disembarking in Istanbul, Turkey, a myriad of captivating shore excursions beckon travelers to explore the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. From guided tours to iconic landmarks such as St. Sophie Church, the Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace, to immersive experiences like a Bosphorus dinner cruise, visitors have a diverse range of options to choose from. Whether it’s savoring the local cuisine at outdoor markets, venturing independently using public transportation to Sultanahmet, or opting for hassle-free private tours with expert guides, Istanbul’s shore excursions promise an enriching and memorable exploration of this fascinating city.
Points of Interest
Hagia Sofia
Topkapi Palace
Blue Mosque
Grand Bazaar & Carpet Demonstration
Bosphorus Cruise
Underground Cistern
Topkapi Palace Harem
Hippodrom
Day 11 – Istanbul, Turkey – Disembarkation Day
It’s not farewell, but rather “until our next voyage.”