ScheckTrek: Oceania Cruise: Delos and Mykonos, Greece

Since November 18, 2010 we’ve been covering the itinerary of a specific Oceania cruise: “Grecian Glory.” This cruise – which will include the Mediterranean, Aegean and Adriatic Seas – will be on Oceania’s brand new ship, Marina. In fact, as I pen this on January 16, 2011, we are just 5 days away from Marina’s maiden voyage to the U.S., where she will be christened.

Each week, in addition to providing information about one of “Grecian Glory’s” ports of call, I include photos of various staterooms and/or public spaces. This week I’ll feature the Oceania Suite, as well as some of the activities on board.

First, the suite. At 1,000 sq. ft., the Oceania Suites are the third largest on the ship, after the Vista Suites (1,200 sq. ft) and the Owner’s Suites (2,000 sq. ft.). They’re available either forward or aft on the ship to provide unparalleled views. In addition to butler’s service and numerous amenities, the suite includes a private Jacuzzi on it’s private veranda. That would be enough to sell me on it right there!

Below is just a sampling of activities aboard ship. You’ll notice that I include drinking coffee as an activity! (Cruise-related photos and quotes from Oceaniacruises.com.)

“As you sit ensconced in a tufted leather chair in Marina’s welcoming library immersed in the latest bestseller, you are drawn by the aroma of freshly-brewed specialty coffees to Baristas, Oceania Cruises’ new coffee bar directly adjacent to the library. A stunning arc of floor-to-ceiling windows provides panoramic views high above the glittering sea as our master baristas present you with the finest espressos, frothy cappuccinos, delightful pastries and homemade biscotti. A comforting yet stylish enclave, Baristas offers the tasteful chance to relax and savor the moment.”

What a place to have your morning (or afternoon) cuppa!

“Rather than just watching others create and merely taking notes, the best way to acquire new skills is through hands-on learning. It’s especially true with regard to culinary and artistic endeavors. Working side-by-side with an expert in the field is the ultimate way to master talents such as how to make a perfect soufflé or how to sketch landscapes in charcoal. Nothing rivals the hands-on experience, so we have created two magnificent learning centers onboard Marina, Bon Appétit Culinary Center and Artist Loft Enrichment Center.”

“Sample a fine assortment of wine, scotch, champagne, cheese and chocolate or take an opportunity to improve your knowledge of wines by conversing with Oceania’s head sommelier.”

The 9th and 10th ports of call are two Greek Isles: Delos (from 8:00 a.m. till 12:00 noon) and Mykonos (from 2:00-8:00 p.m.)

Delos

Photo courtesy of Wally Gobetz

(http://www.flickr.com/photos/wallyg/143685769/in/set-72057594130488583/)

House of Cleopatra

Delos is an uninhabited island located in the center of a circular ring of islands called the Cyclades. It’s a site of considerable archeological interest, disproportionate to it’s size of only 2.4 miles. Regarded as the birthplace of Apollo, the ruins are largely of temples of pagan worship. In 1990, UNESCO included Delos on the World Heritage List, saying that it is an "exceptionally extensive and rich" archaeological site which "conveys the image of a great cosmopolitan Mediterranean port.”

Mykonos

Mykonos is known as a party island by night, but many tourists go for its white-washed buildings, crystal clear waters, and to see its working, 16th-century windmills. Following is a photo tour of this picturesque island.