Starting in May, the two smaller sailing vessels of the Windstar fleet, the Wind Spirit and the Wind Star, make seven-night voyages between Athens and Istanbul, calling along the way at the islands of Rhodes, Santorini and Mykonos (where Heracles is said to have defeated the giants), as well as the Turkish ports of Didim and Kusadasi (near Ephesus), also rich with ancient ruins and classical sites.
Current prices for the Greek isles’ cruises start at $3,349-$3,949, depending on the date selected, with departures May 16-Oct. 10. Additional costs are trans-Atlantic airfare, shore excursions, and taxes and fees. Gratuities are not required. With a capacity of 148 guests and six computer-operated sails, the Wind Spirit and Wind Star provide a yachtlike experience for cruisers who eschew the megaliner razzmatazz. Their big sister, the 312-guest Wind Surf, spends the summer sailing a variety of Mediterranean itineraries. (800-258-7245; windstarcruises.com, under Cruises click on Greek Isles)
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