Celestyal Crystal
Ship Facts
Gross tonnage: 25,611
Length: 162 m
Breadth: 25.6 m
Draught: 6.10 m
Cruising Speed: 18 knots
Passenger Capacity: 952
Crew: 406
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Greek Islands & Turkey Gay Bears Cruise 2021
7 nights from/to Athens, Greece
August 28 – September 04, 2021
Celestyal Cruises Celestyal Crystal
 Join your bear buddies and friends on as we sail the the Greek Islands and experience the best of Greece with all your senses. What’s really special: the ship will spend overnights in Mykonos and Santorini. This means you can enjoy a taste of authentic Greece after dark! The Mediterranean is built on myths, history and warm people. There’s nothing you may want that you can’t find here. Book a cruise now and give yourself the gift of a lifetime!
Come and be serenaded by the romance of the Aegean on our brand new “Idyllic Aegean” seven-night cruise. Visit the most enchanting Greek island destinations dotted around the Aegean Sea, where culture, history, pristine beaches, and fishing villages suspended in time all await. There’s something to suit every taste on our extra-special cruise, and with overnight stops in Santorini and Mykonos, come and unravel the best-kept secrets of these sun-soaked shores by night. Indulge in everything your heart desires and embark on an effortless odyssey through the jewels of the Aegean.
To travel the Aegean sea is to travel through history. A welcoming basin, protected from extreme weather has been inhabited for aeons. The entire spectrum of blue and green shades paint the scenery of the region interrupted only by small white paintbrushes to mark the settlements the locals build since the beginning of history. It’s difficult to pick your destinations but there are some spots that are unmissable. Take for example the martian-like island of Milos, home of the celebrated Venus de Milo, dazzling with its breathtaking beauty, stunning beaches, amazing sunsets, picturesque villages and warm hearted people. Santorini shares some star qualities with Milos but she is the queen of the Aegean. Only a poet can describe with words this unique experience filled with colors, sounds, sights, flavors and emotions. Pristine beaches, traditional architecture and cosmopolitan sunsets are only few of Santorini’s indisputable charms.
Mykonos needs no introduction. The nightlife remains to be surpassed by any other as well as the luxury and beauty of the island. A small blue rock inviting all types of travellers to its sandy blonde shores. The largest island of the Aegean is Crete, the birthplace of writing and a national treasure of history and landscapes. The capital, Heraklion, invites you to medieval adventures and just a few kilometers away you time travel to Minoan Crete. The hospitality of the locals and the quality of every aspect of your experience will leave you wanting more.
The crossroad of civilizations and history, Kusadasi, welcomes you in its port and old caravanserai and leads you to the ancient city of Ephesus. The excursion to the ruins will travel you through time to glorious empires and forgotten gods.
Your Ship - Celestyal Crystal
As soon as you step aboard Celestyal Crystal, you’ll realize your getaway couldn’t possibly feel more comfortable or more like home. Enjoy comfortable staterooms and suites, elegant restaurants, bars and lounges, spa and fitness rooms, as well as promenade decks, where you can revel in the splendor of a starlit ocean sky.
Indulge in Culinary Delights
The signature Celestyal experience starts in the very heart of our cruise ships – the dining rooms and lounges. Here you can indulge in rich culinary delights cooked from scratch by our talented chefs and savor fresh Mediterranean ingredients. There’s no better feeling than sitting back with a crisp glass of wine and delighting in an array of quality, authentic local food.
Your cruise package includes three wholesome meals as well as afternoon tea every day. Start your morning with our freshly-baked bread and pastries, then browse the buffet or à la carte menu for lunch and dinner. When the sun’s shining brightly, there’s even casual al fresco dining on our decks as well as room service, so you can choose exactly how and when you want to eat.
That’s what makes your Celestyal Cruise vacation so special – service from the heart, lovingly-made food, memorable mealtimes and comfortable lounges to relax with a drink.
All of Celestyal Crystal dining areas, lounges and bars have been carefully designed to accommodate and preserve the intimacy and comfort one expects while cruising. Head over to the Amalthia and Olympus restaurant for some fine dining, or to Aura Grill and Leda buffet for something tasty, quick and easy. Both places serve dishes you won’t forget soon! At the Helios bar you can enjoy a cup of coffee, while at the Horizons, Muses or Eros Lounge & Bar you can have your favorite cocktail. If you feel like something cozier, you can always relax at Thalassa bar for a night drink, while you indulge in some stargazing.
Your cruise is all-inclusive of four freshly-prepared meals a day, but for your comfort and enjoyment, you can also opt to upgrade your dining experience with more exclusive dishes for an additional fee.
At Celestyal Cruises, we do everything we can to make sure you can relax while you enjoy the delicious gastronomy that makes our cruises unforgettable!
Relax. Keep Fit. Feel Special
Cruise vacations are for pampering, disconnecting and treating yourself. Onboard Celestyal Crystal you can do it all.
Spa
Our revitalizing onboard spa is where all your day-to-day worries are left at the door. Choose any of our professional spa treatments and packages that include several types of head and body massages such as Balinese Shiatsu, classic Swedish massage and aromatherapy as well as cleansing facials, honey and sugar body exfoliation, hot stone treatments and mud wraps for a rejuvenating and invigorating cruise vacation. Just remember to book your appointment in advance to avoid disappointment.
Gym
Our cruise ships all come with well-equipped gyms where you can keep up with your daily fitness routine or even try a new workout regime. Start your morning with a stretching program to feel ready for the day ahead, or come to the gym at the end of a day to disconnect with a motivating exercise program.
Sports
Feel like getting your blood pumping at sea? Learn new moves at a Zumba class or test your nerve with a game of ping pong or darts. If you’re more of a spectator, just stroll on up to the deck and watch all the excitement unfold while enjoying the good weather.
Salon
Our onboard salons add a touch of glamor to your vacation. Expert beauticians, hairdressers, manicurists and pedicurists will pamper you and make you feel fabulous as you get ready for Gala Night or cocktails with your loved one. And as we only use the best products, your fabulous feeling will last even longer - just remember to book an appointment in advance as our salons are very popular. What’s more, our salon packages make great Bon Voyage Gifts!
Fun & Games
Our onboard quizzes and games guarantee a night of pure entertainment. We have lots of different quizzes on the go like general knowledge, music and a cruise quiz, as well as many other games and board games including Name That Tune, Pictionary, Guess the Celebrity, Stop the Bus and Men vs Women. There are also electronic games to keep every generation entertained such as Wii Sports and many more.
Only for Bears!
• 7 nights Greek Islands & Turkey cruise
• 3 meals per day (breakfast, lunch & dinner)
• Unlimited Beverage Package Included (Soda, house wine and liquors. Top shelf can be purchased for an up-charge.)
• 3 Selected Shore Excursions Included
• Entertainment on Board Included
• Gratuities Included
• Exclusive Bears Cruise get-togethers
• Group dining
• Select private shore excursions
• Excellent customer service
• Bear cruise cruise director and host
• Pre- and post- hotel packages
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Greek Islands & Turkey Bears Cruise 2021 Itinerary
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Date |
Port |
Arrive |
Depart |
| 28 Aug |
Athens (Piraeus), Greece |
|
7 PM |
| 29 Aug |
Kusadasi, Turkey |
8 AM |
7 PM |
| 30 Aug |
Rhodes, Greece |
8 AM |
6 PM |
| 31 Aug |
Agios Nikolaos (Crete), Greece |
8 AM |
12 AM |
| 01 Sep |
Santorini, Greece |
7 AM |
|
| 02 Sep |
Santorini, Greece |
|
2:30 AM |
| 02 Sep |
Milos, Greece |
8:30 AM |
1:30 PM |
| 02 Sep |
Mykonos, Greece |
7 PM |
|
| 03 Sep |
Mykonos, Greece |
|
11 PM |
| 04 Sep |
Athens (Piraeus), Greece |
9 AM |
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Piraeus (Athens), Greece
The largest port in the Mediterranean and primary departure point for Greek Island cruises from Athens, Piraeus is a hubbub of activity that will bring your senses to life. With a sun-soaked promenade, al-fresco cafes and bars and countless shops, it’s a place where you can easily relax with a glass of wine and watch the world go by.
A port since antiquity, its seemingly infinite rows of quays are filled with luxury yachts and the comings and goings of people visiting the city of Athens or heading out to the blissful Greek islands. Further along the bay, you’ll find the charming port of Pasalimani where the laid-back atmosphere provides an escape with boutiques and secluded eateries.
Piraeus is your gateway into one of the world’s oldest cities. Venture into Athens alone or join a guided excursion from the cruise ship to discover the city’s ancient monuments, iconic landmarks and an open-air museum that’s like nothing you’ve ever seen before.
Kusadasi, Turkey
Arriving in the port of Kusadasi, Turkey you’ll instantly feel at home. A huge covered bazaar stretches out in front of you and the buzz from trendy seaside bars and restaurants floats through the air. Follow your instincts and lose track of time ambling from café to café and exploring its myriad of shops and historic sites.
Find time for yourself on one of the many white sandy beaches in and around Kusadasi such as Diamond Beach, Paradise Beach or Love Beach, where you can try your hand at windsurfing or even jet skiing. And there’s no shortage of good times in Kusadasi: weather that’s always on your side, a chilled, laid-back atmosphere and ancient sites on its doorstep.
In the city, itself, stroll around the Fortress of Kusadasi on Pigeon Island and discover city walls that protect historic gems such as the Fortress Mosque. But head out into the sun-soaked hills above the Aegean coast, and you’ll come across some of the most important archaeological sites in Europe.
Rhodes, Greece
Beaches, castles and butterflies – Rhodes is an island like no other. Approaching Rhodes island by sea is an experience all of its own. The clifftop Acropolis at Lindos rises slowly from the still blue waters, evoking the ancient Colossus which once adorned the harbor, and modern hillside villages lay in the shadow of the imposing medieval fortification.
Stepping off the cruise ship, an island of contrasts awaits; a tranquil paradise, rich with nature and layered with history. Wandering the Old Town, you’ll feel the presence of the Crusaders who once walked the same cobbled streets. The ruins left behind by Byzantines, Romans and ancient Greeks will whisk you even further back in time.
Heraklion (Crete), Greece
Sailing into Heraklion port, the intimidating walls of Koules Fortress emerge from the sea to guard the ancient treasures found within the city. Capital of Crete, Heraklion is brimming with landmarks, world-class museums, golden beaches and a stylish nightlife scene that shape a destination to please everyone’s taste.
Pedestrianized streets wind their way around the historic center connecting squares, ornate Ottoman fountains and arcaded walkways within the secure Venetian walls. Strolling along the picturesque harbor-front promenade, you’ll spot traditional fishing boats coming and going, old vaulted shipyards in the distance as well as tavernas spilling out onto the seafront grilling freshly-caught fish and serving ice-cold drinks.
As the birthplace of Minoan civilization, Heraklion shows you the best of Crete history and culture. Exploring the Archaeological Museum, you’ll lose track of time looking at exhibitions covering more than 5,000 years, and you’ll soon uncover the city’s rich artistic heritage having given the world El Greco, poet Odysseas Elytis and novelist Nikos Kazantzakis.
Santorini, Greece
Cruising towards Santorini is like being swept away on a current to somewhere truly magical. You will its pull almost instantly. The island will greet you with its striking cliffs, promising adventure and legendary tales. The almost vertical towns of whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches will rise above the blue Aegean like an oasis of beauty and calm.
As you leave the comforts of the ship behind, you’ll trade them for the unique indulgences of Santorini. A sense of serenity and mystery washes over you as you step off deck and make your way through the winding, narrow streets of Fira. Start your days chasing thrills at the top of a dormant volcano and end them with mojitos on cliffs overlooking sunsets that will stay with you for a lifetime.
While the island is most famous for its striking landscape, Santorini provides a feast for all senses: Feel the heat of the sun under your feet as you walk along the black sand of its volcanic beaches. Savor the flavors of local products by pairing one of the island’s most famous dishes, creamy Greek fava, with a bottle of locally-produced Vinsanto wine. Listen to the calls of the seagulls and the crashing waves create a perfect harmony with the traditional music of the island. There is no doubt, you will leave Santorini with your own Greek myth.
Milos, Greece
Dramatically emerging from the Aegean Sea before you, you’ll be spellbound by Milos’ contrasting volcanic landscape that’s full of refreshing surprises. Its coastline reveals surreal shapes of sculpted rock that captivate viewers for hours, juxtaposed with quaint white stone fishing villages that blend seamlessly into the landscape.
Stepping off the cruise ship, a laid-back Cycladic island retreat awaits. Find peace and tranquility on one of the many beaches and feel the cooling, refreshing effect of the Aegean as you swim in its serene sea caves. Marvel at Cape Vani’s geological formations and travel along its ever-changing coastline to admire multi-colored sea cliffs at Paleochori and see evidence of how the island’s history was shaped by mining.
Arching its way around a central caldera, the island’s volcanic coastline spoils you for choice. Near Trypiti village, you’ll be able to explore one of the most ancient monuments in Christianity - the Milos Catacombs, where expansive underground chambers and passages were carved into the volcanic rock. Or sit back and relax in one of Milos’ quality terraced tavernas serving only the freshest catch of the day, discover colorful boathouses that magically emerge from the sea in Klima and stroll along Plaka’s hilltop cobblestone streets.
Mykonos, Greece
The Greek Island, Mykonos, flaunts its double personality the moment you set eyes on its coastline. Basking in year-round sunshine, its rugged rocky landscape blends seamlessly with smooth sandy beaches. In the distance, undulating hills host the island’s iconic windmills turning in symphony with the seasonal winds that have branded Mykonos ‘island of the winds’.
On appearance, traditional white-washed villages seem untouched by time, but delve deeper into their maze of cobbled streets and you’ll find cosmopolitan bars, exclusive boutiques and gourmet restaurants. High-energy nightlife gives way to calming, picture-perfect beaches where it’s easy to find your inner peace.
And travel back through the centuries at Mykonos’ archaeological sites where you’ll encounter the Sanctuary of Apollo and many other fascinating ancient relics that reveal the island’s varied past. Then explore traditional villages such as Ano Mera where the pure white walls of Panagia Tourliani monastery appear crafted from the landscape.
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