Myths of the Mediterranean
An seventeen-night small-ship voyage through Greece, Turkey, Montenegro, Croatia, and Italy — ancient sites, Adriatic coves, and Mediterranean culture aboard Douglas Mawson.
18
Days
Sep-Oct
Season
Luxury
Style
Aurora Expeditions
Douglas Mawson
Key facts
Overview
A journey shaped by conditions, not a script.
Myths of the Mediterranean is Aurora Expeditions' small-ship cruise through the classical world — Athens to Naples via the Greek islands, Turkish coast, Montenegro's fjords, Croatia's Dalmatian islands, and Sicily. Aboard Douglas Mawson (130 guests), the format blends expedition-style landings with curated shore excursions and expert hosts. Aurora's 2026 European programme marks the operator's expansion beyond polar — same small-ship philosophy, warmer latitude.
Greek islands and Athens — ancient sites with small-ship access.
Adriatic coast — Montenegro, Croatia, and hidden coves.
Sicily and Naples — volcanic landscapes and classical history.
Douglas Mawson — Aurora's newest purpose-built small ship.
Itinerary
Day-by-day route.
Day 1
Athens (Piraeus)
Embark Douglas Mawson after briefings in Greece.
Days 2-6
Greek Islands
Island-hopping through the Cyclades and Dodecanese with archaeological and cultural landings.
Days 7-10
Turkey and Montenegro
Turkish coast and Bay of Kotor — ancient sites and Adriatic scenery.
Days 11-15
Croatia and Sicily
Dalmatian islands, Dubrovnik, and Sicily's volcanic coast.
Days 16-18
Naples
Final landings along the Amalfi coast and disembarkation in Naples.
Inclusions
What is included.
Shipboard accommodation and all meals aboard
Curated shore excursions and expert hosts
Expedition team and onboard programming
Port charges
Exclusions
What is not included.
Flights to Athens and from Naples
Travel insurance
Premium excursions and spa
Gratuities
Related
Other journeys to explore.
Planning note
Cabin choice matters as much as itinerary.
Deck height, window size, ship movement, dining style, and guide ratio all shape the expedition. We compare those details before recommending a departure.
Plan your expedition
Plan Myths of the Mediterranean with an expert.
Bring us the ships, routes, or dates you are considering. We will tell you what fits, what does not, and why.