Silversea Luxury Cruises A ARGOSTOLI (Cephalonia)

Embrace the exquisite beauty and flavours of Cephalonia during this half-day sightseeing excursion, and a winery tour and tasting.

Lighthouse and Kourkoumelata

Depart the pier for the brief drive to a unique small lighthouse. After a photo stop for splendid views of the town of Lixouri across the bay, your drive continues for approximately 25 minutes along the Lassi Coast to Kourkoumelata, a lovely village that was rebuilt in the Neo-Classical style following a 1953 earthquake. En route, take in superb views of the lush countryside, beautiful golden beaches and crystal-clear seas. Upon arrival, explore the village at your leisure and marvel at the panoramic views overlooking the sea below.

Monastery of St. Andrew

Next, visit the Monastery of St. Andrew. During the 1953 earthquake, the whitewash covering the inside of the church was loosened and revealed frescoes dating from the 13^th and 17^th centuries; they are now considered to be the island's greatest artistic treasures. High on a hill opposite the monastery is the Venetian fortress of St. George, which was built on the site of an ancient citadel and features commanding views of the surrounding plain.

Robola Winery, Wine Tasting & Local Snack

Your tour concludes with a visit to the Robola Winery. Upon arrival, take a guided walking tour of the winery and learn about the production methods of the famous and rare Robola wine, which is made from a local species of white grape that comes in red, white and sweet Muscat. Following your walking tour, you are invited to sample five kinds of wine before re-boarding your coach for the approximately 30-minute drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, with steps to negotiate at the monastery. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection. A strict dress code is observed at the monastery; shoulders and knees must be covered. Flash photography is not permitted inside the monastery. Guests must be at least 18 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. During the summer months, especially July and August, traffic might occur resulting in delays.

Explore the natural beauty and history of a little-known Ionian island in Western Greece during this picturesque excursion to Cephalonia.

Scenic Drive to Myrtos Beach

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 45-minute drive through the verdant countryside filled with vineyards, ever-present olive trees and thick cypress glades. En route, a photo stop is made at a cliff-side viewpoint for splendid views of Myrtos, the most stunning beach on the island. Your drive then continues for approximately 40-minutes along the mountain roads leading to Fiskardo.

Fiskardo

Located in the northeast corner of the island, the delightful village of Fiskardo is the most typical Cephalonian village. Pastel-coloured houses surround the waterfront, which is lined with coffee shops, 'tavernas' and souvenir shops. The natural safe harbour is a centre for the jet set and their yachts; just opposite lies the mythical island of Ithaca. After some free time in Fiskardo at your leisure, re-board the coach and proceed to Melissani Lake.

Melissani Lake

Subterranean channels feed this underground lake with water running to the opposite side of the island. Partly exposed to the elements, the cave is accessible via a manmade tunnel leading to the shore of the open part of the lake. During your visit, take a boat-ride through a channel narrowed by an island, and highlighted by walls sprouting eccentric stalactites. The ceiling is more than 328 feet (100 meters) in height, and the light from the entrance produces a myriad of colour.

Argostoli

Following your visit, re-board your coach for the approximately 40-minute drive back to the pier. En route, pass through a number of charming villages. Time permitting, you may opt to remain in town and return to the ship on your own.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of driving and moderate walking, with quite a few steps to negotiate. This tour is not suitable for guests suffering from claustrophobia, guests with breathing difficulties, guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. The boats at the lake are small and are able to accommodate up to 12 guests each. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection. During the summer months, especially July and August, traffic might occur resulting in delays.

This accessible Argostoli shore excursion combines the very best highlights of the island into one memorable experience. Visit the glorious Agios Gerasimos Monastery, enjoy a delicious wine tasting at the charming Robola Winery and soak in the beautiful views and ocean breeze as you take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Assos Harbor.

Agios Gerasimos Monastery

Meet your tour guide and board your accessible van at the pier. Start your journey with a short approximately 30-minute scenic drive to the beautiful Agios Gerasimos Monastery. Located on the plateau of Omalon east of Argostoli, this Monastery site is the center of religious practices on the island and also houses the bones of the island's patron saint Gerassimos. It is said that he came to Cephalonia in 1560 and lived in a cave south of Argostoli before founding the monastery where he lived and then died in 1579. After his death, a beautiful little church was built over his grave. A much larger Byzantine style church has since been established right next to it. This church is considered a part of the Monastery site and it offers an incredible, richly decorated interior where you can experience ceiling murals depicting the scenes from the Old Testament, the birth and baptism of Jesus, the Last Supper and many more.

Robola Winery, Wine Tasting & Local Snack

Your tour continues to the charming Robola Winery located right by the Monastery. This small gem is located in an incredible country setting where local grapes are turned into Cehalonia's most popular wine. Here, you will enjoy a short, guided tour and learn about the wine production process and enjoy a delicious wine tasting experiences accompanied by delicious local cheese, tomatoes, cucumber and breadsticks. You will also have a chance to purchase some of your favorite wine and take it home with you.

Village of Assos & Free Time

After your visit to the Winery, you will be heading out on a picturesque drive to the village of Assos located on the west coast of the island. This charming little fishing village offers the perfect scene for memorable vacation photos. The village seems to be 'lost in time' and has an almost mystical atmosphere. Upon arrival, guide provides you with a quick orientation and then you will be given some free time to explore this charming village on your own. Enjoy beautiful, crystal blue water views, the impressive venetian villas, the old fishing boats docked along the harbor and the charming taverns and shops around the main square.

Please note: This tour involves a minimal amount of walking and is specially designed for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair or a scooter. Full time wheelchair users, are kindly requested to contact shoreconcierge@silversea.com in order to provide further details and determine if the tour is suitable for them. The tour route avoids steps and stairs. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. An accessible vehicle with a wheelchair lift or ramp will be used for transportation. Guides are not allowed to push wheelchairs. A minimum participation of 8 guests is required to operate the excursion at the advertised rate. Space on this tour is extremely limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Indulge your senses at one of the best beaches near Argostoli during this relaxing outing at the idyllic Makris Yalos beach. The beach where the green of the forest meets the blue waters and golden spectacular sand is considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches of the entire Ioanian Islands.

Makris Yalos Beach, Swimming, Free Time

Depart the pier in your air-conditioned approximately 20-minute transfer ride to the Makris Yalos beach. This sandy and pebbled beach has wonderful turquoise waters where you can swim and refresh. Enjoy a morning in the sun, swim in the crystal clear waters, and relax during your free time.

After approximately 3 hours on the beach, re-join your coach at the appointed place and time for the return transfer to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a minimal amount of walking for approximately 150 yards (about 137 metres) that includes steep inclines, sandy and uneven surfaces. This tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility however it is not wheelchair accessible. Guests are advised to wear a swimsuit under a cover-up with beach shoes, and bring sun protection and a towel from the ship. During the summer months, especially July and August the beach gets quite crowded. Beach umbrellas and sunbeds are not included and are available for rent on first-come, first-serve basis. Swimming is at guest's own risk. Only Euro currency is accepted. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions. During the summer months, especially July and August, traffic might occur resulting in delays.

Experience the amazing geological wonders of Cephalonia during this memorable, half-day sightseeing excursion to Melissani Lake, Sami and Drogarati Cave.

Melissani Lake

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 45-minute drive through the verdant countryside, then pass by Mt. Ainos and through picturesque villages en route to Melissani Lake. Upon arrival, take a brief walk down a tunnel and to the shore of the underground lake. From here, board a small wooden boat for a ride along the deep turquoise waters of the lake and the surrounding caves. Amazing stalactites sprout from the walls, and natural light penetrates and reflects on the lake in a myriad of colour.

Sami

Next, re-board your coach and proceed for a visit to the town of Sami. The island's biggest port, Sami was made famous in recent years as the setting for the motion picture, Captain Corelli's Mandolin. Upon arrival, some free time is made available to explore the resort, purchase refreshments, and browse the shops and seafront.

Drogarati Cave

During the return drive to Argostoli, a stop is made for a visit to one of the most awe-inspiring caves on the island. Lying approximately 197 feet (about 60 metres) below the surface, Drogarati Cave is more than two million years old. A spiral staircase leads to this remarkable natural phenomenon. The concealed lighting arouses the senses, and highlights the hidden depths of the cave. Following your visit, re-board your coach for the approximately 45-minute drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking, with approximately 200 total stairs/steps to negotiate at the Drogarati Caves and Melissani Lake. This tour is not suitable for guests suffering from claustrophobia, guests with breathing difficulties, guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. The cave is over 200 feet (about 61 feet) underground, and its interior temperature is 64.4 degrees Fahrenheit (18 degrees Celsius). The cave floor can be steep and slippery due to moisture. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing and closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and a camera from the ship. The boats at the lake are small and are able to accommodate up to 12 guests each. During the summer months, especially July and August, traffic might occur resulting in delays.

Explore Cephalonia's northern landscapes and traditional villages whose historic Venetian architecture miraculously survived the big 1953 earthquake.

Panoramic Drive, Fiskardo, Local Snack, Free Time

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 90-minute drive to the northeast corner of the island, the delightful village of Fiskardo. Fiskardo is one of the most typical Cephalonian villages with original Venetian architecture, pastel-coloured houses, coffee shops, 'tavernas' and souvenir shops. The natural safe harbour is a centre for the jet set and their yachts; just opposite lies the mythical island of Ithaca. Here, enjoy a taste of 'ouzo,' a localy made spirit, accompanied with some traditional Greek snacks. You will also have some free time at your leisure before re-boarding the coach to proceed to yet another picturesque spot.

Assos, Free Time

Your second stop is at a tiny and secluded village of Assos, one of the most beautiful and picturesque villages of the island. Built amphitheatrically around the homonymous peninsula, it is surrounded by luscious green scenery and verdant forests. The village seems to be 'lost in time' and has an almost mystical atmosphere. Upon arrival, guide provides you with a quick orientation and then you will be given some free time to explore this charming village on your own.

Myrtos Beach

En route, a photo stop is made at a cliff-side viewpoint for splendid views of Myrtos, the most stunning beach on the island. Nestled at the foot of steep limestone cliffs, this strip of pristine beach with its brilliant blue waters, has consistently been voted as one of Greece's top ten beaches. Here, admire the views and make sure to take some photographs before heading back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking approximately 450 yards (0.4 kilometre), with 50 steps to negotiate at Fiskardo. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and those who utilize a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing and closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and a camera from the ship. During the summer months, especially July and August, traffic might occur resulting in delays.

Explore Argostoli at your leisure during your full-day (8-hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Guides are English-speaking. Participation is limited to 2 guests per car. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Explore Argostoli at your leisure during your half-day (4-hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Guides are English-speaking. Participation is limited to 2 guests per car. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Explore Argostoli at your leisure during your full-day (8-hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Guide is English-speaking. Participation is limited to 10 guests per van. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this programme. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Explore Argostoli at your leisure during your half-day (4-hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Guide is English-speaking. Participation is limited to 10 guests per van. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this programme. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.