Istanbul to Naples aboard the 59-cabin Hebridean Sky
We are delighted to invite you to join AIA lecturer and host Laetitia La Follette on an extraordinary voyage inspired by Homer’s Odyssey. Cruising through the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas, this immersive cruise brings together archaeology, mythology, history, and spectacular landscapes as we follow one of the world’s greatest epic journeys.
Beginning in Istanbul, we embark the intimate, 59-suite Hebridean Sky and departure to legendary Troy, where Odysseus began his long and arduous journey home after the Trojan War. From there, continue through the ancient Mediterranean to destinations associated with Homer’s epic, including the UNESCO World Heritage island of Delos, the sanctuary of Delphi, the Palace of Nestor at Pylos, Odysseus’ beloved home island of Ithaca, myth-rich Sicily, and Malta, where legend tells us Calypso detained him for seven years. The voyage concludes in Naples after visiting some of the Mediterranean’s most celebrated archaeological sites and cultural landscapes.
Enhancing every step of the journey is an exceptional team of scholars. AIA lecturer and archaeologist Laetitia La Follette is joined by renowned classicist Emily Wilson, best known as the first woman to translate the Odyssey into English; Princeton historian Yair Mintzker, whose work examines European cultural history and the relationship between history and storytelling; and additional expert lecturers. Through illustrated talks and informal discussions aboard ship, they will offer valuable perspectives on Homer, archaeology, literature, and the ancient Mediterranean.
Program Highlights
- Begin in Istanbul, with a choice between visiting magnificent Dolmabahçe Palace, the largest palace in Türkiye, or the iconic Hagia Sophia.
- Walk among the archaeological ruins of Troy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the legendary starting point of Odysseus’ journey home.
- Cruise to the UNESCO World Heritage island of Delos, the mythical birthplace of Apollo and Artemis.
- Visit Delphi, where the Temple of Apollo overlooks the sweeping valley below.
- Call at picturesque Pylos to explore the Mycenaean Palace of Nestor, associated with the wise king described in Homer’s Odyssey and Iliad.
- Visit Ithaca, the island home Odysseus struggled for ten years to reach.
- Explore Trapani, on Sicily’s dramatic west coast, a landscape traditionally linked to the Laestrygonians.
- Choose from three full-day excursions in Malta, ranging from prehistoric temples to medieval fortresses.
With just 59 suites aboard and co-sponsored by several organizations, we encourage you to reserve your preferred cabin today by contacting AIA Tours at aia@studytours.org or (800) 748-6262.
Suite Category Rate (per person)
| Cat. | Description | Double | Single |
| A | Standard suite (Forward suites 250 & 252) 226 sq ft, portholes | $9,990 | $15,990 |
| B | Standard Suite (suites 254-262) 226 sq ft, portholes | $10,990 | $17,590 |
| C | Superior Suite (suites 329-347) 237 sq ft, picture window | $12,990 | $20,790 |
| D | Premium Suite (suites 416-428) 226 sq ft, picture window | $14,990 | |
| E | Corner Suite (suites 411 & 415) 237 sq ft, picture windows | $16,490 | |
| F | Deluxe Balcony Suite (suites 505-511) 225 sq ft plus 43 sq ft balcony | $17,990 | |
| G | Owner’s Balcony Suite (suites 601-605) 237 sq ft plus 86 sq ft balcony | $19,490 | |
| H | Hebridean Suite (suite 602) 264 sq ft plus 101 sq ft balcony | $21,490 |
Space is very limited, please call to inquire about suite availability.
To reserve your space using the online form, click here.
For reservations or questions, please email us at aia@studytours.org (and include your full name) or call us toll-free at (800) 748-6262 (toll: 603-756-2884).