Hey there, travel aficionados! Phil Evans here, Managing Director at Cruise Nation, fresh off an unforgettable 3-night cruise on the Celestyal Discovery—and let me tell you, it was one for the books and way better than I could have imagined. From ancient ruins to volcanic adventures, and the most mouthwatering Greek cuisine you can imagine, this trip had it all. So, grab a seat (preferably somewhere sunny with a glass of something chilled), and let me take you through my latest escapade through the Aegean Sea!
Setting Sail: Getting to the Ship & First Impressions of Celestyal Discovery
The adventure kicked off in Lavrio, a port city that was new to me despite my many travels from Piraeus. Lavrio is a bit of a hidden gem, quieter and less chaotic than Piraeus, making it an absolute breeze to navigate. The journey from Athens Airport took about 45 minutes, but with UBER now available in Greece, getting around is both easy and affordable—my trip cost just 42 euros one way.
Arriving at the port, I felt a sense of calm wash over me, and I was ready to embark on what I knew would be a special journey. Stepping onboard the Celestyal Discovery, I was immediately struck by the ship’s perfect blend of modern luxury and cozy, intimate charm. My cabin, complete with a private balcony, was an absolute dream. Picture this: endless views of the Aegean Sea, perfect for early morning coffee sessions as the sun paints the sky in shades of pink and gold.
And let’s talk about the crew—they deserve a standing ovation. From the warm welcome during embarkation to the impeccable service throughout the cruise, the crew made every moment feel like a special occasion. Whether it was a friendly chat, a helpful tip about the next port of call, or just a genuine smile, they truly made me feel at home.
This was just the beginning, and I already knew I was in for a treat on this unforgettable journey through the Aegean.
Dining on Celestyal Discovery: A Culinary Odyssey
Now, let’s talk food—because if there’s one thing that can make or break a cruise for me, it’s the dining experience. Thankfully, Celestyal Discovery delivered big time. The ship has several dining options, each offering a unique take on Mediterranean cuisine.
Thalassa Restaurant quickly became my go-to spot for dinner. The atmosphere is elegant yet relaxed, and the menu? A veritable feast of Greek and international dishes. Picture this: freshly caught seafood, grilled to perfection; tender Chicken dishes with just the right amount spice; and moussaka that would make any Greek grandmother proud. The best part? Everything is served piping hot, made from locally sourced ingredients, so you’re literally getting a taste of the places you’re visiting.
And don’t even get me started on dessert. I may or may not have indulged in galaktoboureko—a flaky, custard-filled pastry dripping with honey—more times than I care to admit. But hey, calories don’t count on holiday, right?
For something a bit more casual, Taverna Buffet was the perfect spot for breakfast and lunch. Whether I was loading up on Greek yogurt with honey and nuts, or grabbing a quick bite before heading out on an excursion, everything was fresh, flavourful, and very satisfying.
For quick eats the Greek Deli serves up delicious and tasty street food favourites, however these are a chargeable extra and are not included as part of the cruise fare.
Raise a Glass: Drinks Aboard Celestyal Discovery
Now, let’s talk about one of my favourite parts any holiday—the drinks! Celestyal Discovery knows exactly how to keep the good vibes flowing with an impressive selection that caters to every taste bud. Whether you’re craving a classic Mojito at the Pool Bar, a smooth glass of Greek Assyrtiko wine at Amalthea Restaurant, or a frothy local craft beer, there’s something to quench your thirst. Prices are very reasonable too—expect a refreshing beer or a glass of house wine to set you back around 5 to 8 euros, while specialty cocktails usually range between 10 and 15 euros.
Feeling fancy? Opt for one of their all-inclusive drink packages, which offer fantastic value if you’re planning to sip and savour throughout your voyage. And don’t worry about staying hydrated—there are plenty of non-alcoholic options like fresh juices, smoothies, and artisan sodas to keep you refreshed all day long. Whether you’re toasting to a stunning sunset from your balcony or enjoying a late-night cocktail with new friends, the vibrant and affordable drink offerings on Celestyal Discovery make every moment on board even more enjoyable. Cheers to that!
Mykonos Magic: Sunsets, Windmills, and Wandering
Our first stop was the legendary Mykonos, and as the ship glided closer, the iconic windmills came into view—cue the excitement! Mykonos is known for its vibrant nightlife, but by day, it’s a dreamy paradise of whitewashed buildings and winding alleys just waiting to be explored.
We arrived in the early evening, the perfect time to dive into Chora, the island’s charming main town. It’s one of those places where you can easily get blissfully lost—every twist and turn reveals something new, whether it’s a cozy little cafe, a boutique brimming with handmade crafts, or a burst of bougainvillea spilling over a bright blue door.
When it comes to unwinding, there’s nothing quite like watching the sunset. I made a beeline for my favourite spot, Nice N Easy in Little Venice. This restaurant and cafe bar is hands-down the best place to catch the sunset, with its terrace tables offering a front-row seat to the colourful houses perched above the Aegean and those iconic windmills standing tall in the distance. With your favourite drink in hand, watch as the sky shifts from gold to pink to deep purple—pure magic!
Kusadasi & Ephesus: Walking Through History
The next day, we docked in Kusadasi, Turkey, which is the gateway to one of the most remarkable ancient sites: Ephesus. As a history enthusiast, I have done this many times and it is a bucket-list moment for most. Wandering through the ruins of Ephesus feels like stepping back in time. The grandeur of the Library of Celsus and the massive Grand Theatre are awe-inspiring. Standing where gladiators once fought and where scholars pored over texts is a Truely humbling experience.
After getting my fill of ancient history, it was back to the ship for a well-earned lunch. I opted for my go to lunch, a Greek salad, fresh fava with pita bread and some delicious souvlaki at the Taverna—the perfect refresher after a morning of exploring.
Patmos: Spiritual Serenity
From Turkey, we sailed to the tranquil island of Patmos. Known as the site where St. John received the visions that led to the writing of the Book of Revelation, Patmos has a serene, spiritual energy that’s hard to describe. I visited the Monastery of St. John and the Cave of the Apocalypse—both incredibly peaceful and humbling places.
The rest of the afternoon was spent wandering the quiet streets, soaking in the island’s calm atmosphere, and enjoying a leisurely coffee at a local cafe. It was the perfect contrast to the hustle and bustle of Kusadasi.
Crete & Santorini: Volcanic Adventures and Jaw-Dropping Views
Our final day was packed with adventure. First up: Crete. We docked in Heraklion early in the morning, and I couldn’t resist a visit to the Palace of Knossos. The history here is as rich as it gets—this is the home of the legendary Minotaur, after all. The ruins are fascinating, with frescoes and artifacts that offer a glimpse into life thousands of years ago.
After a quick stop at a local taverna for some dakos (think Greek bruschetta, but better), we were back on the ship and sailing towards the jewel of the Aegean: Santorini.
Santorini is one of those places that simply takes your breath away. As we sailed into the caldera, I was struck by the sheer beauty of it all—the steep cliffs, the whitewashed buildings clinging to the edge, the endless blue of the sea and sky.
But I wasn’t just there to admire the view. I had an adventure lined up—a hike to the Santorini Volcano. Yes, you read that right—a volcano! We took a tender boat to Nea Kameni, the volcanic island at the centre of the caldera. The hike up was steep, but the views were worth every step. Standing at the edge of the crater, looking out over the caldera, with the sea shimmering below, was nothing short of exhilarating. The island is still active, with vents that emit steam—just a little reminder that you’re standing on a living, breathing volcano.
After the hike, we headed to the island of Palea Kameni for a dip in the hot springs. The warm, mineral-rich waters were the perfect way to soothe tired muscles after the climb. Floating in the springs, surrounded by the dramatic landscape of Santorini, I couldn’t help but think, “This is the life.”
Onboard Fun, Entertainment, and Final Thoughts
After a day packed with adventure, it was time to unwind aboard the Celestyal Discovery—but the fun was far from over! That evening, I treated myself to an epic dinner at the Thalassa Restaurant. I went all out with a multi-course meal that was nothing short of spectacular. The star of the night? A perfectly grilled fillet steak—medium pink, juicy, tender, and absolutely mouthwatering. I topped it all off with a slice of divine baklava, because why not indulge a little?
The evening’s entertainment was a blast, with live music, dancing, and even some impromptu karaoke. Most of the entertainment staff hail from Cuba, so you can imagine the energy and rhythm they bring to the stage. They had everyone up and moving, all masterfully orchestrated by the fabulous cruise director, Teresa—honestly, one of the best I’ve ever seen in action.
But the real showstopper came from an unexpected star: a beautiful waitress from Cuba who I’d seen fill in during karaoke nights. She had a knack for stepping up when the mic was free, so one evening, I asked her to sing a Jennifer Hudson cover. To my delight, she accepted the challenge and delivered a powerhouse rendition of “And I Am Telling You.” She nailed every note with such passion that it gave me chills—it was one of those unforgettable, magical moments that made the night truly special.
After all the excitement, I found myself back on my balcony, watching the twinkling lights of Santorini fade into the distance. A deep sense of contentment washed over me. This cruise had been the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery. Whether I was getting lost in the charming streets of Mykonos, standing in awe of ancient Ephesus, or hiking up a volcano in Santorini, every moment had been nothing short of memorable.
This cruise wasn’t just a cruise—it was an experience, packed with surprises and moments that will stay with me forever. If you’re looking for a journey that’s as fun as it is enriching, the Celestyal Discovery is the ship to be on.
Why You Should Book This Cruise—Right Now!
So, why am I raving about this cruise? Because it offers something for everyone. The 3-Night Iconic Aegean Cruise on Celestyal Discovery is the ultimate way to explore some of the most beautiful and historic spots in the Aegean, all while enjoying top-notch food, fantastic entertainment, and a ship that feels like home.
Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a history buff, a foodie, or just someone who needs a break from the daily grind, this cruise has it all. I left the Celestyal Discovery with a heart full of memories, a few new dance moves, and a renewed sense of wanderlust. Trust me, this is one trip you won’t want to miss.
Until next time, happy travels!
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