21-Day Western Mediterranean & Greek Isles: Athens Overnight – Nieuw Statendam – Holland America Line

HomeSearch21-Day Western Mediterranean & Greek Isles: Athens Overnight – Nieuw Statendam – Holland America Line – 2028-02-19

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Your itinerary

Rome (tours from Civitavecchia)
Livorno, Italy
Genoa, Italy
Marseille (Provence)
Gibraltar
Barcelona, Spain
Alicante
La Goulette
Valletta
Souda (Chania)
Athens
Athens
Thira (Santorini), Greece
Bodrum
Rhodes
Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey
Athens

Day 1

19th Feb '28

Rome (tours from Civitavecchia)

When you embark on a cruise to Rome with Holland America Line you experience its bustling modernism along with its rich history. You can walk in the footsteps of emperors, have coffee in Renaissance piazzas and see contemporary art all in one afternoon. Your sightseeing time in Rome begins at the nearby port of Civitavecchia, a seaside town with roots that stretch back to the Etruscan era. Take note of the Forte Michelangelo (both Bramante and Michelangelo had a hand in its design), and the lungomare, a lively stretch along the sea with beach clubs, bars and restaurants. Once in the Eternal City you can fill your day with museums, churches, archaeological sites, traditional trattorias, artisan shops and, of course, gelato. The Colosseum and the Vatican Museums are Rome’s superstar attractions, but there are plenty of quieter gems to explore. For food lovers there are the markets in Campo de’ Fiori or the slightly farther flung Testaccio. The hip neighborhood of Monti, next to the Colosseum, has a vibrant piazza scene and boutique shopping, while the Villa Borghese offers a green oasis with a view towards Saint Peter’s Basilica and the masterpiece-filled Galleria Borghese. Although Rome might not have been built in one day, you’ll certainly be able to see its highlights on our Rome cruises along with the top things to do there in 24 hours. More

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17:00

Day 2

20th Feb '28

Livorno, Italy

Access to the best of Tuscany: Florence, with its magnificent art and architecture and elegant shopping; Pisa’s Leaning Tower; and ancient Lucca. Sample shore excursions: Tuscan Countryside & Wine Tasting; Florence & the Academia. More

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Day 3

21st Feb '28

Genoa, Italy

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16:00

Day 4

22nd Feb '28

Marseille (Provence)

Marseille, in the south of France, has more spice, grit and edge than the Provençal towns that surround it. A trade city since the time of ancient Greece, the port always seems to be on the brink of change, generating a certain energy that’s hard to find in the timeless and traditional countryside. In fact, sometimes it doesn’t seem very French at all. Thanks to a multicultural population, the culinary scene (with seafood dishes and Michelin-starred restaurants galore) goes beyond the classic steak frites at bistros and brasseries. A 19th-century cathedral presides over the city and the working-class Le Panier district has winding streets flanked by fading facades, while Baroque edifices grace the commercial thoroughfare La Canebière, once compared to the Champs-Élysées. Marseille’s 2013 turn as the European Capital of Culture sprouted a crop of cultural venues, from striking museums to cutting-edge gallery spaces and thought-provoking concept shops that showcase local talent. The waterfront has been refurbished—and on sunny days, it’s the place for people- and boat-watching from restaurants famous for bouillabaisse or outdoor cafés serving glasses of rosé and pastis. More

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Day 5

23rd Feb '28

At Sea

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Day 6

24th Feb '28

Gibraltar

This strategic link between the Atlantic and the Mediterranean has been ruled by the Spanish, British and Moors. As long as the Barbary Apes remain, the British will rule Gibraltar this is the tradition that has held for 350 years. These pesky primates are a favorite with visitors despite their incessant chatter and light-fingered ways. Ride to the top of the Rock for great views over the Strait of Gibraltar-on a clear day you’ll see Africa. More

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12:00

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19:00

Day 7

25th Feb '28

At Sea

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Day 8

26th Feb '28

Barcelona, Spain

On the northeast coast of Spain, overlooking the Mediterranean, Barcelona is a vibrant port city, packed with centuries of iconic art and architecture—Gaudí and Picasso both called it home—and lined with sunny white-sand beaches. Explore the Catalan capital’s tourist attractions and historic neighborhoods, Modernisme and world-renowned art museums, galleries and local crafts shops—some of which are centuries old and stock traditional Catalan wares. After you see the sights, there are lively tapas bars around every corner where you can stop for a drink, a café amb llet (Catalan for espresso with steamed milk) or a snack, no matter the hour. Green spaces for picnics, long walks and respite from the hustle and bustle are scattered throughout Barcelona’s attractions: There’s Gaudí’s mosaic-decorated park, a neoclassical maze at the Laberint d’Horta, as well as plenty of high places (mountains, monuments and edifices) where sightseeing visitors can take in the view. A short trip from Barcelona by car or train, luxury outlets, cava wineries, a mountaintop abbey and the sandy beaches of the Mediterranean coast await. More

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Day 9

27th Feb '28

Alicante

Fresh sea breezes, mountain backdrops and vibrant locals have made this magical city a must-see for both international tourists and residents of Spain alike. It’s easy to slip into the local rhythm. Spend your day exploring everything from the Old Town and Santa Bárbara Castle to the trendiest of Spanish stores. Promenade down the marble Explanada de España, an iconic and bustling boulevard dotted with palm trees. Enjoy a proper Spanish lunch that spans several courses and hours, prepared by some of the best chefs in the country. Take advantage of the proximity to the sea to dine on the freshest seafood, or try one of Alicante’s many traditional rice dishes. And don’t forget to sample the outstanding regional wines, which are also very tasty souvenirs. Even just a day here will open your eyes to the natural beauty and subtle charms that make proud and elegant Alicante a gem of the Costa Blanca. More

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8:00

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17:00

Day 10

28th Feb '28

At Sea

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Day 11

29th Feb '28

La Goulette

Stroll Tunis’ spirited medina where close-packed souks offer silver, perfumes, spices, carpets and other treasures at fire sale prices. Sharpen your haggling skills here—it’s anticipated! At the edge of the Sahara, the Phoenician city at Carthage now lies in windswept ruins, but once was the glorious rival of Rome. More

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Day 12

1st Mar '28

Valletta

Thick sandstone walls fortify Valletta, holding within its stone streets and glorious architecture. It fees like a travesty, walking over the detailed inlaid marble floors of the the cathedrals, but they are there to be seen and appreciated. The Silent City is Mdina, on the far side of the island, where no cars are permitted to disrupt the serene streets. Keep an eye out for the legendary, aged yellow buses of Malta which appear to be on their last legs, but are in fact a revered and flawlessly maintained piece of Maltese heritage. More

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Day 13

2nd Mar '28

At Sea

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Day 14

3rd Mar '28

Souda (Chania)

The port of Souda on the Aegean Sea is home to a Greek and NATO naval base and is located six kilometers (three miles) from Chania—the second-largest city on Crete, which itself is the largest of the Greek Islands. Once you’re in Chania, set your compass for the historic waterfront with its famous Venetian Harbor dating to the 14th century. Walk along the breakwater to the restored 500-year-old lighthouse for views that are particularly photogenic from late afternoon until sunset. The atmospheric tangle of streets that is Old Town is easily explored on foot, and you can stop at one of the many outdoor cafés for a bouyatsa (custard pastry) or a glass of Cretan red wine.Soúda can also be a jumping-off point for a visit to Rethymnon, located about 54 kilometers (33 miles) to the east. Shaped by centuries of invasion, namely by the Venetians and Turks, its Fortezza was built by the Venetians in the late 16th century and captured by the Ottomans in 1646. The Old Town has the same kind of architectural character as Chania, but on a smaller scale. More

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Day 15

4th Mar '28

Athens

No modern metropolis is more steeped in myth than Athens, Greece. From the gritty port of Piraeus—gateway to Greece’s fabled isles—to the Parthenon—eternal symbol of Western civilization—Athens has attracted adventurers and classicists for centuries. This heritage is still very much alive for modern visitors sightseeing in Athens: ancient stadiums and temples dwell alongside apartment blocks, modern performances are staged in the marble amphitheaters where Greek drama was born and millennia-old monuments are scattered in the archaeological park that circles the Acropolis. One of the world’s oldest maritime powers, Athens is blessed with a balmy climate and stunning coastline. The seaside suburbs of Athens are scalloped with sandy beaches, fancy yacht clubs and glamorous beach bars. While the Athenian lifestyle is known for late-night dinners and dancing until dawn, the city shines brightly by day in the bustling markets, lively cafés and fascinating museums that illuminate Greece’s past and present. Contemplate the magnitude of all that culture and ancient tourist attractions while marveling at the sun setting into the Aegean or rising over the Acropolis. More

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Day 16

5th Mar '28

Athens

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Day 17

6th Mar '28

Thira (Santorini), Greece

Your harbor on this island was created by a volcano in 1500 BC., and the effect is still explosive: steep cliffs rise from sea level, cubist white houses glow in the Aegean sun. Sample shore excursion: Panoramic Santor ni. More

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Day 18

7th Mar '28

Bodrum

Stones from the Tomb of Helicarnassus, one of the Seven Ancient Wonders of the World, were used to build the castle at Bodrum. For this reason alone you must visit the impressive towers and appreciate the stunning views they offer. A truly authentic Turkish experience is a ride in a “gulet” one of the region’s typical wooden boats. More

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Day 19

8th Mar '28

Rhodes

Rhodes, set behind impregnable 14th-century walls, invites you to navigate through crooked streets to shop for sea sponges and visit the gorgeous Palace of the Grand Masters from where the Knights of St John set out on the Crusades. Tour to the village of Lindos and climb to the Acropolis. Look down and you’ll see where St Paul landed, as well as the rocky peninsulas where many believe the Colossus of Rhodes once stood. This 110-foot-tall statue of Helios was destroyed by an earthquake, and its remains were melted down by the Arabs for scrap metal. More

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Day 20

9th Mar '28

Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey

Kusadasi in Turkey is the gateway to one of the most legendary cities of the ancient world: Ephesus. St. Paul preached in its Great Theater, while the facade of the Celsus Library survives as a testament to the city’s role as a center of learning and culture. Not far from Ephesus, the Temple of Artemis (also known as the Temple of Diana), one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world, once stood, drawing pilgrims from around the Mediterranean. While it no longer stands, it is possible to walk amongst its foundations and the remains of its towering columns. Other historic sites can also be found nearby: The House of Mary is believed to be the home of Jesus’s mother at the end of her life, and the Basilica of St. John, constructed in the 6th century, marks the location of his tomb. (Like Mary, he spent his final years in Ephesus.) Nearby, the Selcuk fortress reflects the period of Byzantine and Ottoman control of the region. From ancient wonders to holy sites, there are few ports in the Mediterranean as magical as Kusadasi, and a day here is a day spent in the company of some of antiquity’s greatest figures. More

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Day 21

10th Mar '28

At Sea

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Day 22

11th Mar '28

Athens

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Your ship - The Nieuw Statendam

Nieuw Statendam

Nieuw

pianoBar

crows-nest-bar

explorer-s-lounge

Morimoto

pinnacle-grill-restaurant

grand-dutch-cafe

The

Kids

Cocktail

Beer

Carefully

Cellar

The

Library

Pool

Shops

Fitness

Relaxation

Hydrotherapy

Thermal

MedSpa

Salon

Massages

Activities

Deal

Table

Slot

Complimentary

fitness-center

Tai

Sports

Pickleball

Fitness

Party

Mahjong

Board

Bingo

Game

Trivia

Description Food and Drink Entertainment Relaxation Fitness Recreational Technology Other

Nieuw Statendam, a sister ship to Koningsdam and the second of our Pinnacle-class ships, features a design inspired by the fluid curves of musical instruments. Guests can savor her innovative specialt...estaurants—from Sel de Mer to the Grand Dutch Cafe. Enjoy live music and entertainment from the Rolling Stone Rock Room, B.B. King’s Blues Club, and more. Explore the thrill of BBC Earth Experiences presentations at our spectacular two-story World Stage. More Less

canaletto
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club orange
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dive in
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gelato
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grand dutch cafe
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morimoto by sea
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new york pizza
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pinnacle grill
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rudi’s sel de mer
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tamarind
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the dining room
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b.b. king’s blues club
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billboard onboard
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casino action
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kids club
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movies on board
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world stage
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thermal suite
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fitness center
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onboard shopping
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pickleball at sea
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surf
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24-hour room service
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holland america line navigator
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lido market
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Staterooms

suite

Approximately 393-400 sq. ft. including verandah These large, comfortable suites feature a spaciou ... s sitting area with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, two lower beds convertible to one king-size bed—our signature Mariner’s Dream bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, and one murphy bed for one person. The bathroom includes a dual-sink vanity and shower. The configuration of staterooms may vary from the images shown.

outside

Approximately 127-172 sq. ft. Perfect for guests traveling solo, these staterooms feature one full ... -size Signature Mariner’s Dream bed with plush Euro-top mattress, plus a shower with premium massage head, an array of modern amenities and an ocean view. The configuration of staterooms may vary from the images shown.

inside

Two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner’s Dream bed with plush ... Euro-Top mattresses, premium massage shower heads and a host of amenities are featured in these comfortable staterooms. The configuration of staterooms may vary from the images shown.

balcony

Approximately 228-405 sq. ft. including verandah Filled with light from floor-to-ceiling windows o ... verlooking a private verandah, these staterooms include a sitting area, two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner’s Dream bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, and shower with premium massage showerheads. The configuration of staterooms may vary from the images shown.