Israel & Egypt Mediterranean Gay Group Cruise 2023
10 nights cruise from/to Athens (Piraeus), Greece
October 16 – 26, 2023
Celebrity's Apex
Join us on Pied Piper gay cruise on our most exotic Mediterranean itinerary when our gay group on the new, Celebrity Apex, sail to Israel, Turkey, and Egypt! You'll sail round trip from Athens, Greece to Jerusalem, Israel & Alexandria, Egypt to experience firsthand the mysteries of the ancient world. Your cruise will sail the beautifully cerulean blue Mediterranean Sea en route to experience the ancient civilizations of Greece, Israel, Egypt, and Turkey. On your Pied Piper gay cruise, you'll visit the holy city of Jerusalem and the beautiful port of Haifa, Israel, as well as Great Pyramids of Giza! Experience history and natural beauty onboard Celebrity's newest ship, the incomparable Celebrity Apex!
Start your cruise around some of the world’s most fascinating ancient sites in Athens, home to the dazzling ruins of the Acropolis. Stand on the banks of the River Jordan in Haifa. Walk around Jerusalem’s Old City and visit the holy Western Wall. Tour the fascinating landmarks of Alexandria, including the nearby Great Pyramids of Giza. Finish off your journey at the sprawling ruins of Ephesus, where you’ll have the chance to see one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Enjoy a perfect blend of culture, history and breathtaking landscapes juxtaposed with the buzz of modern cities and world-class dining on Celebrity Apex! All this is yours while you are pampered with gracious service, gourmet dining, and numerous venues for entertainment on the stylish and most up-to-date luxury cruise ship.
Celebrity Apex - A Ship Designed to Leave the Future Behind
Celebrity Cruises, the company that brought you modern luxury cruising, has done it again. Introducing a revolutionary new ship that’s poised to change the way you experience the world—and a new class of ships designed to shatter all expectations.
With an innovative outward-facing design and visionary spaces that stand apart from anything else at sea (with the exception of her equally stunning sister, Celebrity Edge, of course), Celebrity Apex will revolutionize the way you experience the world.
Discover the unparalleled luxury of The Retreat, exclusively for all suite guests. Unwind in transformational accommodations that blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living. Soar above the sea on the Magic Carpet. Surrender to the carefree pleasures of the Rooftop Garden. And embark on a culinary journey through an unrivaled collection of restaurants, bars, and lounges.
The Grand Plaza The Grand Plaza, a majestic, open, three-storey venue onboard our brand new Edge Class ships. Inspired by the piazzas of Italy and the invigorating energy of everyone coming together to savour a taste of the good life. Home to our incredible speciality restaurants, featured on different levels of the plaza - along with our popular Martini Bar, Café al Bacio, and the new Grand Plaza Café - the Grand Plaza is the ultimate gathering place on Edge Class.
Dining & Bars Brand new Edge Class ships are truly designed to change the way you experience the world - and such an unbelievable ship needs cuisine to match. Boasting a total of 29 distinctive restaurants, cafés, bars, and lounges to choose from, you’re sure to find a new favourite dish or cocktail every night of your holiday. With an incredible palate-pleasing collection of menus inspired by the destinations we visit, and visionary recipes created by our Michelin-starred chef Cornelius Gallagher, we’ll bring the flavours of the world to you - right onboard.
Entertainment Entertainment onboard our Edge Class ships is just as revolutionary, just as technologically mind-blowing. It isn't something that starts and stops on a schedule. It lives and breathes, surprising you at every turn and making your holiday unforgettable.
Celebrity Edge Class ships surround you with engaging, spontaneous, and unforgettable entertainment moments that transport you from the everyday, every moment of your holiday.
Magic Carpet
Onboard our Edge Class ships, the highlight of our outward-facing vision is the Magic Carpet. The size of a tennis court, and reaching heights of 13 storeys above sea level, it is the world’s first cantilevered, floating platform. Majestically situated on the starboard side of our Edge Class ships, it is designed with comfortable seating, a full bar, and space for live music performances – so it truly is a destination itself. This spectacular space opens to several decks and transforms into a new and exciting venue depending on where it’s positioned.
Relaxation
Whether you want to clear your mind, fine-tune your body, reinvigorate your spirit - or all of the above - The Spa onboard our Edge Class ships is the unparalleled escape you deserve. The Spa elevates "me time" to a fine art, its design rivals any of the best spas in the world, and its nature-inspired approach to wellness includes an array of spa, beauty, and fitness experiences never before offered at sea.
Eden
Eden is unlike anything at sea – or anywhere. With three levels of sensory experiences, fully encased in glass and looking out to the ocean, it is a true window to the world. Where nature is effortlessly intertwined with design and performance art.
Pool Bar Situated alongside the 25-yard lap pool (the largest in our fleet) and underneath an ever-changing, abstract mirror installation is the Pool Bar. An serene spot to relax, sip your favourite cocktail and take in your stunning surroundings.
The Resort Deck
On The Resort Deck, which can be found on our Edge Class ships, you'll enjoy the main pool area, the new Rooftop Garden, the jogging track, and the adults-only Solarium. You’ll find endless ways to enjoy the outdoors and connect with the sea.
Israel & Egypt Mediterranean Gay Group Cruise 2023 Itinerary
Date
Port
Arrive
Depart
16 Oct
Athens (Piraeus), Greece
5 PM
17 Oct
A Day at Sea!
18 Oct
Haifa, Israel
6 AM
5 PM
19 Oct
Jerusalem (Ashdod), Israel
8 AM
20 Oct
Jerusalem (Ashdod), Israel
10 PM
21 Oct
A Day at Sea!
22 Oct
Alexandria, Egypt
2 AM
23 Oct
Alexandria, Egypt
10 PM
24 Oct
A Day at Sea!
25 Oct
Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey
7 AM
4 PM
26 Oct
Athens (Piraeus), Greece
4:30 AM
Day 1 - Athens (Piraeus), Greece
Athens brought the world drama, history, poetry, and philosophy. Once home to the world's most powerful and civilized empires, Athens is now the world's foremost archaeological playground. The towering columns of the Parthenon still stand in homage to the virgin goddess Athena. The Parthenon sits atop the Athenian Acropolis and watches over the city where it can be seen from just about anywhere in Athens. Make it a point to visit the incredible Acropolis Museum on your cruise to Athens. In addition to an abundance of historical riches, modern Athens has plenty on offer—from scenic beaches to restaurants with superb Mediterranean cuisine and bustling central markets.
Day 2 - Day at Sea!
While at sea, take the time to recharge before the next adventure. Lounge by the pool, be spoiled at the spa, taste the delicacies or explore the venues on-board, until we arrive at the next amazing destination.
Day 3 - Haifa, Israel
The largest city in northern Israel has an incredible history. This spectacular city rises dramatically from the Mediterranean on terraced hillsides, which culminate with Mount Carmel. From that viewpoint on a cruise to Haifa, all the world seems to lie at your feet. On a clear day you can see north all the way to the Lebanese border, as well as the snowcapped Mount Hermon to the east. Travel to Galilee—Israel's luscious region and the scene of Christ's youth. Here Jesus was baptized and preached. Or, stand at the banks of the River Jordan, visit where Christ delivered the Sermon on the Mount, get close to the grotto in Nazareth where the Archangel Gabriel appeared to the Virgin Mary — plus take in panoramic views of the Sea of Galilee.
Day 4 & 5 - Jerusalem (Ashdod), Israel
Sacred to three of the world's major religions, Jerusalem is one of the world's oldest cities. With a history dating back to 4000 BC, the ravages of time and generational conflicts have not crumbled its fascinating architecture. Gaze at the Western Wall, which is all that's left of the fabled Second Temple, watch the sunlight bounce off the golden-roofed Dome of the Rock or the shimmering silver al-Aqsa Mosque.
Located less than an hour’s drive from Ashdod, you’ll be swept up by the magnitude and beauty of this treasured city. Wander the Old City and you’re sure to find a kaleidoscope of local artisan and merchant shops for handcrafted jewelry and textiles. Then, head over to the modern part of the city on your cruise to Jerusalem and sample delicious Middle Eastern classics like falafel, hummus, and shawarma.
Day 6 - A Day at Sea!
While at sea, take the time to recharge before the next adventure. Lounge by the pool, be spoiled at the spa, taste the delicacies or explore the venues on-board, until we arrive at the next amazing destination.
Day 7 & 8 - Alexandria, Egypt
On a cruise to Egypt, explore the incredible history of Alexandria and its surroundings. Only a few hours away from bustling Cairo, this coastal city has a relaxed Mediterranean feel. Founded by Alexander the Great, its famed former residents include Cleopatra, Caesar, and Mark Antony, who lived storied lives here.
Stroll the Corniche, Alexandria’s 10-mile long waterfront promenade, taking in the sea air, the local sights, street vendors, and music. Explore the National Museum to learn about Alexandria’s illustrious history and see amazing artifacts. Visit ancient temples, an amphitheater, and catacombs, or take a tour out of the city to see the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx. The charming seaside walkway and fascinating architecture make Alexandria an exotic, romantic destination.
Day 9 - A Day at Sea!
While at sea, take the time to recharge before the next adventure. Lounge by the pool, be spoiled at the spa, taste the delicacies or explore the venues on-board, until we arrive at the next amazing destination.
Day 10 - Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey
Once the capital of the Roman province of Asia Minor, this coastal town is now an archeologist’s dream. The UNESCO World Heritage ruins of Ephesus impress even those familiar with the world's other ancient cities. Though excavations have been underway for 150 years, only 20 percent of the city has been uncovered. This former Greek banking and trading center is rich with historic sites, including the Great Theater, the Temple of Hadrian, and the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Day 11 - Athens (Piraeus), Greece
When you think of gay-friendly travel destinations in Greece, the list usually begins and ends with Lesvos for the ladies and Mykonos for the gents. But Athens is an equally fun destination for LGBT+ travellers. The queer side of Athens is energetic, creative, and welcoming. You’ll find over a dozen gay bars and clubs in the city where you can mingle with locals and party until sunrise, as well as plenty of other lively places for drinking, dining—and flirting, of course. Make sure to also check out the gay saunas in Athens, which cater to a range of ages.
Israel & Egypt Mediterranean Gay Group Cruise 2023 Rates
(Updated 27.05.23. - Current prices/availability.)
Category
Description
Double Occupancy
$ USD
No Perks Included
Double Occupancy
$ USD
Three Perks Included
12 - Inside Double Stateroom
Our cosy and contemporary interior staterooms are ideal for relaxing and refreshing, ready for a holiday you will never forget. With a sofa and flatscreen TV, it is a home away from home. When night falls, settle down in your sumptuous bed for a serene and well-deserved rest.
DI - Deluxe Inside Double Stateroom
Our cosy and contemporary interior staterooms are ideal for relaxing and refreshing, ready for a holiday you will never forget. With a sofa and flatscreen TV, it is a home away from home. When night falls, settle down in your sumptuous bed for a serene and well-deserved rest.
O2 - Ocean View Stateroom
Enjoy some of the best views of your holiday, before you have even reached your destination. From the sumptuous bed, look out to see oceans and islands passing by. With warm décor and thoughtful design, learn more about the best place to wind down after a day of discovery.
O1 - Ocean View Stateroom
Enjoy some of the best views of your holiday, before you have even reached your destination. From the sumptuous bed, look out to see oceans and islands passing by. With warm décor and thoughtful design, learn more about the best place to wind down after a day of discovery.
DO - Deluxe Ocean View Stateroom
Enjoy some of the best views of your holiday, before you have even reached your destination. From the sumptuous bed, look out to see oceans and islands passing by. With warm décor and thoughtful design, learn more about the best place to wind down after a day of discovery.
PO - Panoramic Ocean View Stateroom
Enjoy ever-changing vistas through floor-to-ceiling windows, plus more space than our standard Ocean View Stateroom. Panoramic Ocean View Staterooms are ideal for families and travelers looking to relax in modern luxury. They’re conveniently located forward and mid-ship and furnished for pure indulgence.
P2 - Deluxe Ocean View Stateroom with Veranda
The balcony is your personal sanctuary, where you can relax and linger over a morning coffee, enjoy a romantic dinner for two, or simply sit back and marvel at beautiful sunsets. Or choose an Infinite Balcony, designed exclusively for Edge Class.
P1 - Deluxe Ocean View Stateroom with Veranda
The balcony is your personal sanctuary, where you can relax and linger over a morning coffee, enjoy a romantic dinner for two, or simply sit back and marvel at beautiful sunsets. Or choose an Infinite Balcony, designed exclusively for Edge Class.
SV - Sunset Veranda Stateroom
The balcony is your personal sanctuary, where you can relax and linger over a morning coffee, enjoy a romantic dinner for two, or simply sit back and marvel at beautiful sunsets. Or choose an Infinite Balcony, designed exclusively for Edge Class. Located at either end of the ship, the Sunset Veranda guarantees the best view of breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. With the largest veranda of any Edge Class stateroom, these offer superb ocean views at the stern of the ship.
ES - Edge Single Stateroom with Infinite Veranda
The Edge Single Stateroom with Infinite Veranda is for modern travelers who love to explore the world on their own. Please note that this rate is for the stateroom since the room is only for one guest.
E3 - Edge Stateroom with Infinite Veranda
The most transformational aspect of our stateroom design is the introduction of the Edge Stateroom with Infinite Veranda, where with the touch of a button, your entire living space becomes the veranda, letting you walk right out to the water’s edge.
E2 - Edge Stateroom with Infinite Veranda
The most transformational aspect of our stateroom design is the introduction of the Edge Stateroom with Infinite Veranda, where with the touch of a button, your entire living space becomes the veranda, letting you walk right out to the water’s edge.
E1 - Edge Stateroom with Infinite Veranda
The most transformational aspect of our stateroom design is the introduction of the Edge Stateroom with Infinite Veranda, where with the touch of a button, your entire living space becomes the veranda, letting you walk right out to the water’s edge.
C3 - Concierge Class Stateroom with Veranda
Concierge Class is the perfect choice if you want to know everything is taken care of. And, exclusive to Edge Class, your Concierge Class Stateroom features an Infinite Balcony - with the touch of a button your doors will fold away and your entire living space will become your balcony.
C2 - Concierge Class Stateroom with Veranda
Concierge Class is the perfect choice if you want to know everything is taken care of. And, exclusive to Edge Class, your Concierge Class Stateroom features an Infinite Balcony - with the touch of a button your doors will fold away and your entire living space will become your balcony.
C1 - Concierge Class Stateroom with Veranda
Concierge Class is the perfect choice if you want to know everything is taken care of. And, exclusive to Edge Class, your Concierge Class Stateroom features an Infinite Balcony - with the touch of a button your doors will fold away and your entire living space will become your balcony.
A2 - Aqua Class Stateroom with Veranda
Our AquaClass staterooms are designed for anybody seeking well-being and relaxation. Exclusive to Edge Class, your AquaClass Stateroom features an Infinite Balcony. With the touch of a button your doors will fold away and your entire living space will become your balcony.
A1 - Aqua Class Stateroom with Veranda
Our AquaClass staterooms are designed for anybody seeking well-being and relaxation. Exclusive to Edge Class, your AquaClass Stateroom features an Infinite Balcony. With the touch of a button your doors will fold away and your entire living space will become your balcony.
MS - Magic Carpet Sky Suite
A sliding panel provides views to the room and the ocean beyond. Sky Suite guests enjoy access to The Retreat, featuring a private restaurant, exclusive lounge, and a private pool area complete with its own pool bar. Sky suites also offer a variety of connection options with other staterooms for friends who want to stay close when traveling together.
S1 - Sky Suite with Veranda
A sliding panel provides views to the room and the ocean beyond. Sky Suite guests enjoy access to The Retreat, featuring a private restaurant, exclusive lounge, and a private pool area complete with its own pool bar. Sky suites also offer a variety of connection options with other staterooms for friends who want to stay close when traveling together.
$ 7,466
$ 7,466
SS - Sunset Sky Suite with Veranda
A sliding panel provides views to the room and the ocean beyond. Sky Suite guests enjoy access to The Retreat, featuring a private restaurant, exclusive lounge, and a private pool area complete with its own pool bar. Sky suites also offer a variety of connection options with other staterooms for friends who want to stay close when traveling together.
$ 7,859
$ 7,859
AS - Aqua Class Suite with Veranda
A sliding panel provides views to the room and the ocean beyond. Aqua Class Suite guests enjoy access to The Retreat, featuring a private restaurant, exclusive lounge, and a private pool area complete with its own pool bar. Sky suites also offer a variety of connection options with other staterooms for friends who want to stay close when traveling together.
CS - Celebrity Suite
The master bedroom has a king-sized bed and a private veranda to overlook the sea beyond. The split bathroom arrangement offers a powder room, a separate spa tub/shower area, and a master dressing area with dual sink and vanity, and a full wardrobe. Celebrity Suites are located close to the Retreat that features a private restaurant, exclusive lounge, and a private pool area complete with its own pool bar. Connect a Celebrity Suite to an Edge Stateroom with Infinite Veranda to create a space perfect for getaways with a group of friends.
$ 8,351
$ 8,351
RS - Royal Suite
The master bedroom has a king-sized bed that faces the panoramic window and overlooks the private veranda and the sea beyond, with a large soaking tub with a separate shower, double sink vanity, and a sliding panel that opens to views of the sea. Royal Suites are located close to the Retreat that features a private restaurant, exclusive lounge, and a private pool area complete with its own pool bar.
EV - Edge Villa
The unique design of the Edge Villas seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor living. With two stories of windows that look out over the terrace (featuring a three-feet-deep plunge pool and inviting lounge furniture) to the incredible ocean views beyond, it’s an open and airy environment that truly invites the outside in, and vice versa. Edge Villas not only offer private outdoor terraces, but they also have direct access to The Retreat, an exclusive area for Suite Class guests. Step right out to The Retreat Sundeck and The Retreat Pool and bar, or retreat to your own private oceanfront villa.
PS - Penthouse Suite
The Penthouse Suites combine all the innovative amenities of our staterooms with the exclusive benefits of being a Suite Class guest. They include a master bedroom, bathroom, and dressing room, living/dining area, guest bedroom and bathroom, terrace, and private hot tub, plus a butler on hand to ensure you never have to lift a finger during your vacation.
IC - Iconic Suite
Iconic Suites boast two bedrooms and two full bathrooms, featuring a full shower, whirlpool tub, and nothing but the best amenities. Enough space for six guests to comfortably unwind in, there’s even an in-suite butler’s pantry for those occasions when you feel like entertaining. If you want the ultimate in indulgence at sea, there’s no other way to go than Iconic.
All prices are per person, double occupancy (except ES Single Stateroom), and include all meals, accommodations and entertainment!
Taxes of $155.68pp, and optional insurance are additional.
A deposit of $500 per person is required upon booking. Final payment due 90 days prior to sailing.
Optional shore excursions will be offered.
Prices are cruise only and DO NOT INCLUDE return airfare! Please ask for airfare add-ons back to your home city.
Fares are subject to availability and may change without prior notice.
Also included are the traditional PIED PIPER escort and activities, subject to minimum participation.
Traveling alone? Ask about our single roommate share program to help you avoid the single supplement of 200% of the per person double occupancy rate.
Please ask for further details.
BONUS!!! Book this cruise now and receive an additional onboard credit!
No Perks Fares! Please refer to the pricing column with lower fares that do not qualify for any perks.
Three Perks Fares! Book any non-suite category and receive the following three complimentary perks: Classic beverage packages, onboard tips, and unlimited onboard internet packages!
Elevate! Book any non-suite category, and for only $30 per person, per day extra, receive the following four complimentary perks: Premium beverage packages, onboard tips, unlimited onboard internet packages, and an onboard credit of $200 per person to be used for shore excursions!
Indulge! Book any non-suite category, and for only $60 per person, per day extra, receive the following four complimentary perks: Premium beverage packages, onboard tips, unlimited onboard ‘stream’ internet packages, and an onboard credit of $200 per person!
Indulge Suite deal! Book a Suite and get all the perks in the Indulge package: complimentary Premium beverage packages, onboard tips, unlimited onboard ‘stream’ internet packages, and an onboard credit of $400 per person!
Special lower single fares! Please ask about available special lower single occupancy fares!
The above promotions are capacity controlled and offer may be withdrawn at any time without prior notice.
