City of the World’s Desire

Our tour begins with Constantinople, city of dreams, one of THE great cities of the world. It was Roman Byzantium, then Constantinople, capital of the fabulously wealthy Byzantine Empire. From 1453 –1919, Istanbul was capital of the Ottoman Empire which In Suleyman the Magnificent's time it outshone its illustrious predecessors.

The Topless Towers of Illium

Drive to the Hellespont and Troy scene of Schliemann’s epic excavations in the 19th century. New research has broadened our knowledge of this magnificent site . After visiting Assos, Pergamum and Smyrna, Homer’s birthplace, we embark our private yachts and cruise via Ephesus to Priene, Miletus and Didyma

The Classical Aegean

Aegean Turkey preserves some of the finest Classical sites, their ruined theatres and temples standing among olive and myrtle groves. Here, nature imitates art as orchids and creepers twine among the delicate floral tracery of their fallen blocks of masonry and daisies enhance the sculpture of an ancient altar frieze or theatre entrance.

Our own Classic Yachts

We use our own classic yachts for this cruise. Built in Halicarnassus, they are fitted with the most modern conveniences – private bathrooms with every double / twin cabin; our own chefs to prepare the excellent Turkish cuisine; our own stewards to wait on our every need. It’s a perfect way to relax, to learn and to absorb the ambience of the epic past.

Accompanying Scholar:

Jeremy Paterson has been at Newcastle University since 1972 and is Senior Lecturer in Ancient History. He studies the Ancient Wine Trade, Roman politics, and early Christianity. He broadcasts regularly about the Greek and Roman World and knows all the sites we are visiting very well..

Tour costs

£1,495 per person sharing, to include flights, UK departure tax, excursions, entrance fees, full board, double/twin bed cabins with private bathroom. Single supp.£350. Not included: entry visa (£10), special airport levies, foreign departure taxes, fuel surcharges, drinks, tips to guides and crew.