| 
    Awaiting Your Return From Shore | 
      
        | 
     Santorini is a remnant of a volcanic crater that has 
    been engulfed by the sea. A highly developed civilization flourished on Santorini in the first half 
    of the second millennium B.C. The golden age ended with the eruption of the 
    volcano around 1510 B.C. The catastrophe turned the center of the island 
    into a collapsed gigantic crater. Some historians speculate that this same 
    eruption may also have caused the end of the Minoan civilization on Crete.
 Firá (also Thera or Thira), the island’s capital, is perched on a 
    900-foot-high cliff overlooking the harbor and volcanic crater. From the 
    tiny landing place at Skala harbor, Firá can be reached via funicular, by 
    foot via a winding, 587-stepped path (not recommended), or on mule-back. The 
    small town’s charms are its white-washed houses, winding lanes, picturesque 
    squares, and blue-domed churches. There are many shops.
 At the island’s northern tip lies unspoiled Oia.  Along its 
    twisting lanes nestle arts and crafts shops, cozy restaurants, and art 
    galleries.
 If you are into ruins, visit Akrotiri, the ancient Minoan 
    city, or the Archaeological Museum at the northern end of town.
 
 Pier Information
 The ship is scheduled to anchor. Guests will be taken ashore via the 
        ship’s tenders to Skala harbor; from there a funicular runs up to Firá. 
        Taxis are found along Firá’s main street or in the central square.
 |  
        | Shopping. Hundreds of shops in Firá Town are 
        a short walk from the top of the cable car station. They offer a wide 
        choice of jewelry, rugs, leather goods, ceramics, art work and 
        embroidery. |  
        | Cuisine. The best of Greek cuisine is in Firá Town's tavernas, 
        restaurants, and open-air cafés--some at the crater’s rim, with 
        fantastic views. |  | 
    
    Awaiting Your Return 
    From Shore | 
  
    | 
    
    Complimentary 
    Spirits Await | 
    
    Return to Your 
    Suite and Sail Away to The Next Adventure | 
    
    Entertainment 
    and Dancing Await You |