Corinth Canal & Greek Islands with Andalusia


This cruise has now set sail.
Unfortunately, this cruise will not be going ahead as planned. Please click here to find out more >
Valletta, Malta
Apr 13 | Depart - late night

Malta’s 16th century walled capital of Valletta, with its Grand Harbour, is a treasure-chest bristling with Baroque architecture. This most scenic of ancient ports echoes the epic, heroic history of the tiny island it nestles on. Centuries of invasion and siege have brought the influence of Romans, Phoenicians, Greeks, Arabs, Normans, Crusaders and the British – all leaving an enduring mark on Valletta’s cultural heritage. Home to The Knights of Malta, an order created in the Middle Ages, the town is known for museums, palaces and grand churches.
Baroque landmarks include the ornate St. John’s Co-Cathedral; its opulent interior is crowned by Caravaggio’s masterpiece "The Beheading of Saint John". Other noteworthy attractions include the National Museum of Archaeology, the 16th century Casa Rocca Piccola Palace and the military artefacts in the National War Museum.
The cityscape is probably one of the most stunning in the Mediterranean – the city’s sun-drenched stone walls have an almost permanent warm, honey hue, while colourful, decorative balconies overlook the worn and tethered streets below. Fine restaurants and shops leap out from side streets or are tucked away in charming courtyards.
Valletta is also well-situated to discover the silent city of Mdina, a fortified city in the Northern Region of Malta and home to the Roman burial complex of St. Paul’s Catacombs.
Katakolon, Greece
Apr 15 | Arrive - early morning | Depart - early evening

Katakolon is the small, sleepy port town located on the western coast of the Peloponnese peninsula, which has undergone an extensive and very pleasing makeover over the last decade.
Situated on a headland overlooking the Ionian Sea, the Greek seaside town is the gateway to the UNESCO-listed World Heritage site of Ancient Olympia. Founded in the 8th century BC, Olympia hosted the original Olympic Games and its extensive, must-see ruins include athletic training areas, a stadium and temples dedicated to the gods Hera and Zeus.
The town of Kataolon itself offers the fascinating lighthouse built in 1865, the intriguing Museum of Ancient Greek Technology, and the sunken, ancient city of Pheia, which is within walking distance of the port. The Worldwide Mythology Exhibition Park was established in 2017 in Katakolo Square, where mythical monsters Minotaurs and Centaurs can be found in a labyrinth.
Argostoli, Greece
Apr 16 | Arrive - early morning | Depart - late afternoon

With its palm-lined cobbled promenade, stunning beaches and vibrant town centre, Argostoli is the perfect place to soak up the glorious Mediterranean sunshine while enjoying unique Greek culture. Surrounded by gorgeous azure waters and boasting a beautiful natural harbour, Kefalonia’s is also the island's largest port town.
Despite being a modern, commercial town, Argostoli’s tradition and heritage oozes from its charming architecture, vibrant squares and pretty landscapes. Lithostroto – the main street in the town centre – is the hub of the town and home to a number of shops, cafes, bars and restaurants. Kampanas Square – found in the middle of Lithostroto – offers superb views of the town and the beautiful Koutavos Lagoon.
Just a short distance from the town centre you will discover the impressive Agion Theodoron Lighthouse. Rebuilt in 1953 after an earthquake destroyed the original 19th century building, the lighthouse has a unique design that features 20 columns and a small tower.
Cruising Corinth Canal, Greece
Apr 17 | Arrive - early morning | Depart - late morning

Dreamt up by the ruler of the Ancient Corinth, started by Roman emperor Nero, and finally completed by the French, the Corinth Canal was a project that spanned many centuries. Slicing through solid rock, the canal separates the Greek mainland from the Peloponnese and serves as a vital shipping link between the Gulf of Corinth and the Saronic Gulf in the Aegean Sea.
As impressive as it is important, the Corinth Canal has to be seen – or transited if you are lucky enough – to fully appreciate the engineering involved here, the narrowness of the canal – it shrinks down to less than just 25 metres wide at the very bottom – and the sheer scale of the carefully carved cliffs that flank the waterway.
Sailing through the Corinth Canal is a very special experience, especially on board Fred. Olsen’s smaller-sized ships. Many of today’s vessels are too large to negotiate the Canal, however with Fred. Olsen you can experience the thrill of gliding between the towering cliffs, with rock-faces passing by so close that you can almost touch them.
Ermoupoli, Greece
Apr 18 | Arrive - early morning | Depart - early evening

In contrast to many of Greece’s most famous towns and cities, which are often overcrowded with visitors exploring ancient monuments and world-famous landmarks, Ermoupoli remains relatively undiscovered.
But this isn’t to say that the capital of Syros doesn’t have much to recommend it. Spread out across the slopes of two tall hills on the island’s east coast, Ermoupoli is a maze of multi-coloured and typically Greek whitewashed houses which, when explored, reveal a number of attractions from galleries and museums to shops, bars, restaurants and Ouzeries.
Among the main highlights are Town Hall Square, found in the very heart of the town, where you can admire some of the Ermoupoli’s finest architecture, including one of the largest town halls in Greece. Also worth visiting are the Apollo Theatre, the Industrial Museum and the pretty Agios Georgios Cathedral. This cathedral sits atop Ano Syros hill and offers fantastic views of the town, the neighbouring islands and the surrounding ocean.
The elegant Vaporia district harks back to days when Ermoupoli was a thriving shipbuilding centre, with its palm-lined squares and grand old shipmakers mansions.
Piraeus, Greece
Apr 19 | Arrive - early morning | Depart - early evening

The port city of Piraeus has a vast, interesting history that extends back to the Ancient Greeks. From its beginnings in the 5th Century BC handling the country’s growing import trade to one of the most important passenger ports in Europe today, Piraeus has long served as a gateway to Athens.
The biggest port in the Mediterranean, the most attractive quarter of Piraeus lies around Zea Marina and Mikrolimano harbour. The latter is lined with welcoming cafes, restaurants and bars. Most visitors’ experience of the port, however, is when briefly passing through for the Greek capital.
Athens – one of the world’s oldest cities, is mystical and engrossing, a city that’s steeped in ancient history and antiquity. Over 3000 years old, the city serves as the world centre for archaeological research. Its ancient alleyways and winding streets lead to an impressive array of must-visit museums, ancient churches and some the world’s most significant historic sites.
Athen’s landmarks include the Acropolis, the hilltop citadel stood proudly above the city and topped with ancient buildings like the colonnaded Parthenon Temple. This iconic temple was built in dedication to the Greek goddess of strategy and tactics, Athena, and is over 2500 years old. The National Archaeological and Acropolis Museums preserve priceless sculptures, vases and jewellery from the site.
Below, in the heart of the city, lies the ancient Plaka District. A popular tourist spot, Plaka is home to some fine examples of neoclassical architecture, pretty pedestrianised streets and charming shops and cafes. There are also a number of historic Roman ruins here, as well as the Agias Apostoli – one of the oldest churches in Athens, and the Temple of Hephaestus from 5BC.
Rhodes, Greece
Apr 20 | Arrive - early afternoon | Depart - early evening

Rhodes, the largest of the Greek Dodecanese islands, is awash with fine beaches, wooded valleys, crystal-clear waters, ancient ruins and remnants of an occupation by the Knights of St. John during the Crusades.
The Old Town of Rhodes is a maze of cobbled streets that echo back to the days of the Byzantine Empire, and has recently been accorded UNESCO World Heritage status. Its sandstone architecture rarely fails to impress. The town is home to the medieval Street of the Knights and the castle-esque Palace of the Grand Masters, which is now a history museum.
Further south, along the island's beautiful, resort-laden east coast, the iconic town of Lindos is an unmissable gem to explore, with its narrow alleys and streets, quintessentially Greek white-washed houses and wonderfully-preserved ancient Acropolis, which sits proudly atop an 116-metre-high rock overlooking the town.
With frescoed churches, and eight months of Mediterranean sunshine every year, Rhodes can’t help but be a winner for its visitors.
Agios Nikolaos, Greece
Apr 21 | Arrive - early morning | Depart - late afternoon

Built around a pretty lake against a backdrop of imposing red-rock cliffs and tall trees, Agios Nikolaos is one of Crete’s most picturesque towns. A vibrant ‘resort’ throughout the holiday season, the town attracts thousands of visitors every year thanks to its blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, interesting historic sites and fantastic beaches.
Although Agios Nikolaos appears imposing, with its typically Greek whitewashed buildings towering over Lake Voulisméni and Merabello Bay, it is in fact very easy to explore on foot. Taking a stroll along the town’s tree-lined streets, alleys and boulevards in the Mediterranean sunshine is the best way to take in the attractions. Plenty of bars, shops and restaurants serving fine local cuisine, several charming Byzantine-era churches and interesting archaeological, folklore and national history museums all await discovery. The stunning marina and sandy beach of Ammus are well worth taking the short walk from the town centre to discover too.
Valletta, Malta
Apr 23 | Arrive - early morning | Depart - late night

Malta’s 16th century walled capital of Valletta, with its Grand Harbour, is a treasure-chest bristling with Baroque architecture. This most scenic of ancient ports echoes the epic, heroic history of the tiny island it nestles on. Centuries of invasion and siege have brought the influence of Romans, Phoenicians, Greeks, Arabs, Normans, Crusaders and the British – all leaving an enduring mark on Valletta’s cultural heritage. Home to The Knights of Malta, an order created in the Middle Ages, the town is known for museums, palaces and grand churches.
Baroque landmarks include the ornate St. John’s Co-Cathedral; its opulent interior is crowned by Caravaggio’s masterpiece "The Beheading of Saint John". Other noteworthy attractions include the National Museum of Archaeology, the 16th century Casa Rocca Piccola Palace and the military artefacts in the National War Museum.
The cityscape is probably one of the most stunning in the Mediterranean – the city’s sun-drenched stone walls have an almost permanent warm, honey hue, while colourful, decorative balconies overlook the worn and tethered streets below. Fine restaurants and shops leap out from side streets or are tucked away in charming courtyards.
Valletta is also well-situated to discover the silent city of Mdina, a fortified city in the Northern Region of Malta and home to the Roman burial complex of St. Paul’s Catacombs.
Crotone, Italy
Apr 25 | Arrive - early morning | Depart - early evening

An ancient city that has stood on the gorgeous Calabrese coast since the 4th century BC, but now harmoniously combines a wonderful blend of old and new, Crotone enchants from the very first moment you see its coastal landscapes and historic landmarks standing proudly alongside colourful villas and sea-view apartments. This is Italy at its classical best.
Explore Crotone and expect to feel the buzz of typically Italian city life, as the friendly, yet energetic locals go about their day-to-day business, and immerse yourself in the city’s rich culture and heritage. Within and around the ancient city walls, a wealth of treasures await; look-out for the neo-classical cathedral, which originally dates back to between the 9th and 11th centuries, the impressive Charles V Fortress, and imperious palaces such as Palazzo Olivieri Susanna and Palazzo Baracco.
Meanwhile, the cafés, bars and restaurants of Crotone offer an authentic taste of Calabrese cuisine and locally produced delights, from handmade pasta and sausage created using traditional ancient recipes to superb wines and fragrant herbs, vegetables and fruits.
Argostoli, Greece
Apr 26 | Arrive - early morning | Depart - late afternoon

With its palm-lined cobbled promenade, stunning beaches and vibrant town centre, Argostoli is the perfect place to soak up the glorious Mediterranean sunshine while enjoying unique Greek culture. Surrounded by gorgeous azure waters and boasting a beautiful natural harbour, Kefalonia’s is also the island's largest port town.
Despite being a modern, commercial town, Argostoli’s tradition and heritage oozes from its charming architecture, vibrant squares and pretty landscapes. Lithostroto – the main street in the town centre – is the hub of the town and home to a number of shops, cafes, bars and restaurants. Kampanas Square – found in the middle of Lithostroto – offers superb views of the town and the beautiful Koutavos Lagoon.
Just a short distance from the town centre you will discover the impressive Agion Theodoron Lighthouse. Rebuilt in 1953 after an earthquake destroyed the original 19th century building, the lighthouse has a unique design that features 20 columns and a small tower.
Katakolon, Greece
Apr 27 | Arrive - early morning | Depart - early evening

Katakolon is the small, sleepy port town located on the western coast of the Peloponnese peninsula, which has undergone an extensive and very pleasing makeover over the last decade.
Situated on a headland overlooking the Ionian Sea, the Greek seaside town is the gateway to the UNESCO-listed World Heritage site of Ancient Olympia. Founded in the 8th century BC, Olympia hosted the original Olympic Games and its extensive, must-see ruins include athletic training areas, a stadium and temples dedicated to the gods Hera and Zeus.
The town of Kataolon itself offers the fascinating lighthouse built in 1865, the intriguing Museum of Ancient Greek Technology, and the sunken, ancient city of Pheia, which is within walking distance of the port. The Worldwide Mythology Exhibition Park was established in 2017 in Katakolo Square, where mythical monsters Minotaurs and Centaurs can be found in a labyrinth.
Cruising Corinth Canal, Greece
Apr 28 | Arrive - late morning | Depart - early afternoon

Dreamt up by the ruler of the Ancient Corinth, started by Roman emperor Nero, and finally completed by the French, the Corinth Canal was a project that spanned many centuries. Slicing through solid rock, the canal separates the Greek mainland from the Peloponnese and serves as a vital shipping link between the Gulf of Corinth and the Saronic Gulf in the Aegean Sea.
As impressive as it is important, the Corinth Canal has to be seen – or transited if you are lucky enough – to fully appreciate the engineering involved here, the narrowness of the canal – it shrinks down to less than just 25 metres wide at the very bottom – and the sheer scale of the carefully carved cliffs that flank the waterway.
Sailing through the Corinth Canal is a very special experience, especially on board Fred. Olsen’s smaller-sized ships. Many of today’s vessels are too large to negotiate the Canal, however with Fred. Olsen you can experience the thrill of gliding between the towering cliffs, with rock-faces passing by so close that you can almost touch them.
Piraeus, Greece
Apr 29 | Arrive - early morning | Depart - late afternoon

The port city of Piraeus has a vast, interesting history that extends back to the Ancient Greeks. From its beginnings in the 5th Century BC handling the country’s growing import trade to one of the most important passenger ports in Europe today, Piraeus has long served as a gateway to Athens.
The biggest port in the Mediterranean, the most attractive quarter of Piraeus lies around Zea Marina and Mikrolimano harbour. The latter is lined with welcoming cafes, restaurants and bars. Most visitors’ experience of the port, however, is when briefly passing through for the Greek capital.
Athens – one of the world’s oldest cities, is mystical and engrossing, a city that’s steeped in ancient history and antiquity. Over 3000 years old, the city serves as the world centre for archaeological research. Its ancient alleyways and winding streets lead to an impressive array of must-visit museums, ancient churches and some the world’s most significant historic sites.
Athen’s landmarks include the Acropolis, the hilltop citadel stood proudly above the city and topped with ancient buildings like the colonnaded Parthenon Temple. This iconic temple was built in dedication to the Greek goddess of strategy and tactics, Athena, and is over 2500 years old. The National Archaeological and Acropolis Museums preserve priceless sculptures, vases and jewellery from the site.
Below, in the heart of the city, lies the ancient Plaka District. A popular tourist spot, Plaka is home to some fine examples of neoclassical architecture, pretty pedestrianised streets and charming shops and cafes. There are also a number of historic Roman ruins here, as well as the Agias Apostoli – one of the oldest churches in Athens, and the Temple of Hephaestus from 5BC.
Agios Nikolaos, Greece
Apr 30 | Arrive - early morning | Depart - late afternoon

Built around a pretty lake against a backdrop of imposing red-rock cliffs and tall trees, Agios Nikolaos is one of Crete’s most picturesque towns. A vibrant ‘resort’ throughout the holiday season, the town attracts thousands of visitors every year thanks to its blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, interesting historic sites and fantastic beaches.
Although Agios Nikolaos appears imposing, with its typically Greek whitewashed buildings towering over Lake Voulisméni and Merabello Bay, it is in fact very easy to explore on foot. Taking a stroll along the town’s tree-lined streets, alleys and boulevards in the Mediterranean sunshine is the best way to take in the attractions. Plenty of bars, shops and restaurants serving fine local cuisine, several charming Byzantine-era churches and interesting archaeological, folklore and national history museums all await discovery. The stunning marina and sandy beach of Ammus are well worth taking the short walk from the town centre to discover too.
Valletta, Malta
May 02 - 03 | Arrive - early morning | Depart - late night

Malta’s 16th century walled capital of Valletta, with its Grand Harbour, is a treasure-chest bristling with Baroque architecture. This most scenic of ancient ports echoes the epic, heroic history of the tiny island it nestles on. Centuries of invasion and siege have brought the influence of Romans, Phoenicians, Greeks, Arabs, Normans, Crusaders and the British – all leaving an enduring mark on Valletta’s cultural heritage. Home to The Knights of Malta, an order created in the Middle Ages, the town is known for museums, palaces and grand churches.
Baroque landmarks include the ornate St. John’s Co-Cathedral; its opulent interior is crowned by Caravaggio’s masterpiece "The Beheading of Saint John". Other noteworthy attractions include the National Museum of Archaeology, the 16th century Casa Rocca Piccola Palace and the military artefacts in the National War Museum.
The cityscape is probably one of the most stunning in the Mediterranean – the city’s sun-drenched stone walls have an almost permanent warm, honey hue, while colourful, decorative balconies overlook the worn and tethered streets below. Fine restaurants and shops leap out from side streets or are tucked away in charming courtyards.
Valletta is also well-situated to discover the silent city of Mdina, a fortified city in the Northern Region of Malta and home to the Roman burial complex of St. Paul’s Catacombs.
Seville, Spain
May 07 - 08 | Arrive - early afternoon | Depart - early afternoon

Compact, rich in history and famous for its flamenco, tapas bars and orange trees, the capital of southern Spain’s Andalusia region, Seville, is bursting with antique charm. Located on the plain of the Guadalquivir River, Seville’s old Roman city is now home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
World-renowned for flamenco dancing, particularly in its Triana neighbourhood, the city’s significant landmarks include the ornate Moorish-Renaissance Alcázar Palace complex, and the 18th century Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza bullring. The colossal Gothic Seville Cathedral is the site of Christopher Columbus’s tomb and the Giralda, an imposing bell tower built on a minaret.
Many arrive ready to soak up the atmosphere in the city’s old town and explore the cobbled streets of the Santa Cruz Quarter, or rest on the banks of the Guadalquivir to admire the views of the stunning Metropol Parasol project, commonly known as Las Setas (Mushrooms), which helped to revitalise the Plaza de la Encarnación. It is the world’s largest wooden structure.
The tapas scene is one of the main cultural attractions of Seville. Visitors go from one bar to another, enjoying the small dishes. Popular desserts include pestiños, a honey-coated fritter; torrijas, fried bread with honey; roscos fritos, sugar-coated ring doughnuts; and magdalenas, while Seville oranges grow on trees lining the city streets.
The Sevillanos are masters of the art of celebrating and the city’s great annual festivals, notably the Semana Santa and Feria de Abril, are truly awe-inspiring Spanish occasions.
Málaga, Spain
May 09 | Arrive - early morning | Depart - late evening

Situated on Andalusia's beautiful Mediterranean coast, Málaga offers everything you would expect from a city on the Costa del Sol: seemingly endless stretches of golden sand beaches, fantastic restaurants serving traditional tapas and friendly bars attract locals and holidaymakers alike.
There's much more to the region's captivating capital than busy beach resorts though. Dig a little deeper and a wealth of cultural, historical, artistic and architectural treasures reveal themselves, such as Catedral de Málaga, the statuesque and striking Alcazaba Fortress and Castillo de Gibralfaro. Not-to-be-missed is the Picasso Museum, which exhibits a fantastic collection of masterpieces from arguably Malaga's most famous 'son', Pablo Picasso.
What's more, Málaga is also your gateway to Granada and the glorious Alhambra, where proud 14th century palaces and exotic gardens are Spain's finest expression of Moorish art; as well as the Ronda Valley, where on tour you can explore a charming old town and the picturesque El Tajo gorge.
Motril, Spain
May 10 | Arrive - early morning | Depart - early evening

At the heart of the Costa Tropical, situated in the foothills of the imposing Sierra Lujar Mountains, Motril is a true Andalusian gem. Surrounded by beautiful landscapes, fronted by glorious coastal scenes and inviting beaches, and benefitting from a mild, sub-tropical climate all year round, it is the perfect location for some soothing rest, relaxation and sunshine.
But it’s not all sun, sea and sand in Motril, there is plenty for those looking for a taste of authentic local culture too. While the city is not quite as well known, or as well trodden as others on the Andalusian coast, such as Malaga and Almeria, Motril boasts artistic, historical and architectural treasures that are well worth taking the time to discover. Highlights include the 16th century cultural hub of Casa de la Palmas, 17th century Town Hall – a fine example of mudéjar architecture, and the baroque-style Sanctuary of Ntra Sra de la Cabeza.
Meanwhile, as one might expect from an Andalusian city, Motril offers an array of tempting traditional cuisine and locally produced drinks, from authentic tapas – served in restaurants around the city – to ‘ron de Motril’ rum.
Cádiz, Spain
May 11 | Arrive - early morning | Depart - early afternoon

Cádiz, one of Europe's most ancient cities, hugs Andalusia’s sunlit Atlantic coast and is characterised by palm trees, lookout towers and weathered old buildings. Now into its fourth millennium, Cádiz's fascinating Old Town district features huge stone walls from the 1500s and is home to a wealth of historic highlights, including the beautifully crafted 18th century Cádiz Cathedral.
Boasting over 100 watchtowers, including the iconic Torre Tavira, traditionally used for spotting ships; traditional tapas bars serving delicious traditional cuisine and local seafood; and fascinating maritime history; Cádiz offers a plethora of authentic sights and experiences. The winding streets assume the feel of a carnival, packed-out with friendly locals and humming to the sounds of upbeat alegrías (flamenco songs).
Cádiz is also the gateway to the stunning city of Seville, with its maze of courtyards, atmosphere old quarters and ornate churches and cathedrals.
Lisbon, Portugal
May 12 | Arrive - early morning | Depart - late afternoon

Stretched across its seven trademark hills overlooking the River Tagus estuary, Portugal’s hilly, coastal capital city of Lisbon, is a cinematic collection of cobbled alleyways, pastel-coloured buildings, ancient ruins and white-domed cathedrals. The city was decimated by an earthquake in 1755, and modern Lisbon has been shaped by that eventful day. The Pombaline architecture that now defines the city represents some of the first seismically-protected buildings in Europe.
The city’s bridges include the Ponte 25 de Abril – similar to the Golden Gate in San Francisco – and the Ponte Vasco da Gama, which includes over 11km of viaducts. Lisbon’s many fascinating museums, include the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, the National Museum of Contemporary Art, the National Coach Museum and the Carmo Archaeological Museum.
Lisbon is also a shopper’s paradise, with the Centro Commercial Colombo – the biggest shopping mall on the Iberian peninsula – and the elegant Avenidas Novas, full of upmarket shops. Alternatively, there bargains to be had in the local flea market, Campo de Santa Clara. Don't miss the chance to sample iconic egg tarts at Pasteis de Belém too.
Southampton, England
May 15 | Arrive - early morning

Considered the 'Cruise Capital of the UK', Southampton is the departure port for hundreds for cruise holidays every year, including a number of Fred. Olsen sailings on our smaller sized ships. But beyond being the starting poing for many cruise adventures, you can be assure that this historic city on England's sunny south coast has much to offer as a destination in its own right.
Whether you enjoy a call at Southampton as part of your cruise itinerary, or choose to spend time exploring either before of after your cruise from the city, you'll find there are plenty of attractions, highlights and sights to discover, showcasing fascinating history and local culture. Perhaps see the timber-framed treasures of the Old Town, including the beautiful Tudor House and Gardens, and visit the Sea City Museum to learn of Southampton's links to the Titanic's ill-fated voyage. Other Titanic-related sights include war memorials, the former White Star Line HQ and the Grapes Pub - wander the 'Titanic Trail' to take them in.
There are art galleries and museums aplenty too, as well as an abundance of places to shop, and a number of trendy bars, restaurants and cafés where you can always stop for something delicious. Alternatively, you might opt to explore nature trails and wetlands near to the city, or simply stroll through one of the green spaces or pretty parks.
Unfortunately, this cruise will not be going ahead as planned.
We are aware that if you are sailing with us, you will have many questions about what these cancellations mean for you and we will be in touch as soon as we can.
We are likely to be very busy in our call centre over the next few days. Please bear with us, there is no rush for you to make a decision. We are working very hard for you and promise that we will deal with each and every one of your questions as soon as we possibly can.