I recently returned from a lovely Silversea cruise onboard the Silver Nova. We sailed from Athens, Nafplion, Milos, Crete, Rhodes, Mykonos and Kusadasi with a 3-night post stay at the Grand Lagonassi.

Check in with Silversea was a breeze, we never stood in any lines, service is outstanding. We were greeted with Champagne and Caviar in very impressive stemware. Silversea still uses cruise cards, and the Silver Nova is modern in every way and is very spacious & beautiful and luxurious. Only 690 guests onboard and our Medallion Suite #8065 was very spacious. We were greeted with champagne by our butler Eugene who informed us our laundry service was complimentary, and he was available at our disposal.

There are several dining options, some you need to make reservations in advance, and some have an upcharge. Silvernote is a small intimate restaurant with a baby grand piano and jazz singer centered in the middle of the room. Small plates are served with a variety of choices. This was a unique experience. There is also a French restaurant, an Italian, a Japanese and a Grill that all require reservations. The main dining room was very good. Service onboard is outstanding.

Nafplion – There is a fortress you can see from the ship. Many great beaches, shopping and dining. We visited a couple of churches and enjoyed seeing the historic sites.
Milos – This was a fun beach day. There are several beaches to choose from. We took a cab to Sarakiniko Beach which has large rock formations. The views from the beach were stunning.
Crete – Heraklion. Guests are taken by bus to the town center. There you can shop, dine, see the markets and take in this large ancient city.
Rhodes – I loved this port! We took a fishing tour via Project Expeditions. I caught a puffer fish, a few beautiful orange fish. We had fun and I even got to jump in the Aegean Sea for a swim. After the tour we went into the medieval Old Town which is a UNESCO World Heritage site from the 14th century. I loved shopping here and exploring the streets. The buildings and walls of the Old Town and the Cobblestone Streets were very neat.
Kusadasi – Turkey was amazing. It was so much more than I ever expected. I have read about Ephesus but to experience it was truly spectacular. One of the ancient world’s most impressive archaeological sites. It was truly amazing to see. We took a Silversea tour this day and it was very organized with only 24 guests, and they provide high-tech hearing devices so you can listen to your guide. Our tour also took us to Virgin Mary’s house. This was a highlight for me on this trip.
Mykonos – We had a shipboard credit to use up onboard so decided to do a morning Silversea tour to Elia Beach. This Beach was beautiful and the sea was very chilly!! We enjoyed the beach beds and morning relaxing. Once back to the ship we took the complimentary shuttle into the old town and walked to “little Venice” for photos and to the windmills and had a drink and a snack at various beachside cafes. We found the only Catholic Church on the island and lit a couple of candles for our loved ones and then ventured back to the shuttle back to the ship. I love Mykonos!!

I booked a 3-night post night stay with Delta Vacations at the Resort Grand Lagonissi. The Resort Grand Lagonissi treated us like royalty upon arrival, we were greeted by many employees and escorted to the beach/spa area until our room was ready later that afternoon. This is a large property; you can call for a cart to take you around. The sea to swim and snorkel in was crystal clear and we loved enjoying the beach. There are 4 seaside restaurants on site and you need a reservation. They light up the sea at night, and it is truly a romantic dining experience. We liked the Japanese and the Italian restaurant. It is a lovely property if you want a place to relax before heading home. Loved Silversea. I learned, laughed and loved every minute of our trip. We even booked another sailing trip onboard.