All aboard for an Olympic mezze of island hopping

Since reading Captain Corelli's Mandolin, a love story bursting with vividly-drawn characters and Louis de Bernieres' wonderful descriptions of the Ionian landscape, I have harboured a hankering for the Greek isles.

But as is often the way with our busy lives – days turn into weeks, weeks turn into months and months into years and more than a decade has passed since I vowed to embark on an Aegean adventure.

And to be honest with you I'm absolutely kicking myself. A visit to the land of Aristotle, Homer and, erm, Demis Roussos is a journey to the dawn of classical civilization, sparkling sands and crystal blue seas. What is there not to like?

I wish I had begun exploring the country long ago.

Itinerary

The beauty of sailing on the Celestyal Olympia is the itinerary, which after departing from Athens takes in Mykonos, Kusadasi (Turkey), Patmos, Rhodes, Crete and Santorini.

A veritable Greek mezze if you will – try a little bit of everything and go back for more of what you like next time. And there is lots to like.

The Acropolis and Parthenon in Athens, which rise majestically from a maze of modern buildings, can't help but inspire awe, while islands such as Mykonos offer a glimpse of the laid back good life al a Shirley Valentine (The 1980s rom-com was filmed on Mykonos).

The Greek countryside is bursting with idyllic landscapes of olive trees and vineyards, sandy beaches and rugged mountains. The weather during my trip was amazing - glorious sunshine every day.

Travellers may have been put off by the country's recent money woes, which appear to be on hold at the moment anyway, but Celestyal say it's 'business as usual'.

Itineraries will not be affected by developments and passengers can carry out electronic transactions on board the ship without any problems.

On board, hospitality was second to none, with Captain Stathis Romeos at the helm.

Staff and passengers embraced the ship's Greek heritage with gusto. Greek lessons, Greek cookery, Greek dancing, and even a talk on the country's wine were some of the on board activities for the international crowd to embrace.

We soon found ourselves on one of the ships dance floors performing the sirtaki from Zorba the Greek. All inhibitions went out the window, but for those who are a bit shy about their moves (and I really should be) there are Greek dancing lessons during the day.

The ship is decorated with eye-catching Greek murals, and all bars and restaurant names are a nod to Greek mythology.

My cabin was very comfortable, clean and a good size with a bath and shower. I had no problem drifting off every night in my cosy double bed, although we did pack a lot in.

Our first port of call was Mykonos – a highlight for me.

Tranquil

The cool breezes were welcome as we explored picturesque alleys and later watched the sun slip into the tranquil sea while dining on traditional Greek food.

After drinking in a beautiful sunset (and a glass of wine or three) on the island we sailed overnight to arrive for breakfast in quiet Kusadasi on Turkey's Aegean coast.

It's white sand beaches and shopping areas are a stone's throw from the excavation of Ancient Ephesus and the Terrace Houses, one of the largest and most complete ancient cities in the world.

Next stop was Patmos. Many believe John the Apostle wrote the Book of Revelations in a mountainside grotto here, where he heard the voice of God. I was particularly struck by its peacefulness and breathtaking views out to sea.

After exploring Patmos we set sail for Rhodes, yet another outstanding island. Exploring the Palace of the Grand Masters in the old walled city, a UNESCO World Heritage site, will make you think you've stepped back in time, as will the ancient Acropolis of Lindos, high above the sea, and the Citadel of the Knights.

Here we relaxed on a beach and reflected on our Greek odyssey so far. There were also plenty of places to enjoy an al fresco lunch and a traditional Greek coffee, strong enough to fortify you for an afternoon wandering through the past.

All this exploring was hungry work and we dined in the ship's main a la carte restaurant throughout our trip.

The Argean cuisine is as diverse as its islands. Every one has its own specialities, with recipes dating back centuries. It was easy to lose myself (or 'find' half a stone in fact) in a labyrinth of unforgettable tastes, smells and sights.

I sampled everything from sushi and steak to traditional Greek puddings like baklava and milk pudding. My favourite was Loukoumades – incredibly naughty Greek doughnuts dripping in honey syrup.

Our last stop was Athens, where we climbed to the top of the Acropolis, which is 150 metres above sea level, to take in the Parthenon.

And by this point I really did feel on top of the world.

Fact file

Celestyal Cruisess four-day Iconic Aegean cruise on board the Celestyal Olympia costs from £336 per person to include full board accommodation.

www.celestyalcruises.com +30 210 4583400

A flight inclusive package including a four-night stay in Athens (Hotel Titania) costs from £799 per person with Cosmos Tours

To include flights, B&B hotel and full board cruise accommodation and transfers.