Atlantis – Athens to Barcelona Cruise
The Med from Coast to Coast
From mythical Athens to the wonders of Israel, the Med’s true magnificence comes alive as we sail through five diverse countries in nine unforgettable days on the most beautiful ship in the world. Join the first gay cruise to overnight in Tel Aviv, one of the hottest cities on the planet, as we sail the spectacular new Celebrity Equinox in a brand new direction this summer.
There’s never been a more original Atlantis gay cruise, visiting more of the Med than you ever imagined as we sail from Athens to gay-friendly Barcelona. Classical monuments, nature’s awesome beauty, fabulous shopping, unique glimpses into everyday life, and bold vibrant cities await you at every port on this breathtaking journey. And that’s just the beginning when you sail on the innovative new Celebrity Equinox, a ship that will forever change the way you look at cruising.
Discover the magic of the Med with a cruise that truly spans its geographic and cultural frontiers. From vibrant Athens we’ll sail east for two relaxing days at sea before arriving to Israel for a remarkable overnight visit. Spend your day exploring the wonders of Jerusalem, Bethlahem, and other major sights. As the day continues, venture into cosmopolitan Tel Aviv, one of the world’s most fascinating fast-paced coastal cities. Our 4 AM departure allows you plenty of time to explore the diverse gay-friendly nightlife of this incredible city.
Sicily’s port city of Messina is the perfect starting point to explore the wonders of sun-drenched Taormina, a perfectly preserved ancient hillside city. Upon arrival into Naples, you can play like a jet-setter in Capri, explore the awesome ruins of Pompeii, or simply explore one of Italy’s most authentic cities. Take a day in Rome to visit the Vatican, step through the ancient wonders, or shop the world’s most celebrated streets.
The beauty of Provence, from the castles of Aix to some of the world’s most famous vineyards, awaits you outside the bustling port city of Marseilles. It’s the perfect ending before sailing into the gay-friendly city of Barcelona, always our most popular destination.
Atlantis will offer a variety of pre and post cruise programs in Athens and Barcelona, as well as discounted airfares from the USA. Details will be posted in early January.
Celebrity Equinox simply redefines the cruise experience in virtually every detail; starting with spacious modern staterooms, clean lines and resort-style amenities. The world’s top designers created smart, sexy public spaces and restaurants to rival top destinations in New York or London. The spa experience includes specialized guest rooms and over-the-top treatment options. And then there are the little things that you would never imagine like a real grass lawn growing on the top deck.
You’ll marvel at the magnificent deck spaces and modern Solarium, perfect for relaxing in the Mediterranean sunshine, enjoying a refreshing swim, taking in our pool games, or enjoying our signature outdoor t-dances.
The ultra-modern main restaurant boasts a two-story wine cellar. Dining choices abound with an authentic Asian bistro, an Italian steakhouse, a Mediterranean restaurant, and the sophisticated Murano for the finest dining at sea. All feature Atlantis’ signature open seating and completely casual dress code (or lack of one).
From the high-energy Martini Bar to CellarMasters relaxing wine bar, you’ll find seductive lounges and unique gathering spaces that define Equinox as so much more than you ever thought possible on a ship today. Strikingly beautiful and incredibly inviting throughout.
Thenew 2010 Athens to Barcelona will take you to more places than ever before, with plenty of time at sea to enjoy the world’s most beautiful ship, along with the magical vistas of the Med’s clear blue waters. There’s never been a cruise like it! Of course, for the ultimate adventure you could always combine this with our Venice to Athens sailing for 17 incredible nights of fun!
Cruise Itinerary
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Athens, Greece
The Greek capital is one of the world’s oldest cities, with a recorded history spanning back some 3500 years. Reminders of Athens’ influence on the development of the Western world are at every corner, the most famous being the Parthenon and the Acropolis, among countless other Roman and Byzantine monuments. Visiting Athens is also a great lesson in the development of modern urban life, from the creation of the basic unit of city planning, the city block, to the expansion of the Athens metro system to accommodate the 2004 Summer Olympics.
Tel Aviv, Israel
Tel Aviv, the most important economic hub and richest city in Israel, has become a city of various monikers. Its beaches, bars, cafés, restaurants, upscale shopping, great weather and cosmopolitan lifestyle have led to it being a popular tourist destination earning its reputation as a “Mediterranean metropolis that never sleeps,” likened by many to Miami or Barcelona. Out Magazine recently dubbed Tel Aviv “The gay capital of the Middle East”, as it is the most liberal and accepting city in the region, with a well-established LGBT community. With the third highest concentration of sushi restaurants in the world, and the Italian Ministry of Agriculture naming Tel Aviv as having the best Italian food outside of Italy, it is also a foodie’s paradise. Whatever your interest, this will surely be the highlight of your cruise.
Messina, Italy
Sitting on the strait that connects Sicily to the “boot” of Italy, Messina has always occupied a strategic importance in the Mediterranean region, both from a military standpoint and a trading standpoint. It has changed hands from the Greeks to the Carthaginians to the Mamertines, to the Romans to the Goths, giving it a unique blend of Mediterranean cultures that is evident to this day. Our visit coincides with their citrus season, and you will surely see the presence of their world famous lemons, oranges, mandarins, and other fruit, vegetables and wines that form the backbone of their economy.
Naples, Italy
The largest city in Southern Italy, Naples is an ideal gateway for exploring the many fascinating treasures that this region has to offer. Thirty minutes away, near the base of Mount Vesuvius, the vast ruins of the ancient city of Pompeii provide silent and awe-inspiring testimony to daily life for locals 2,000 years ago. Further down the Sorrento Peninsula you’ll discover stunning views around every hairpin turn as you skirt the Amalfi Coast on your way to Positano and the other picturesque towns that line this route. Offshore, the island of Capri beacons with its famed Blue Grotto and quaint villages and piazzas.
Rome, Italy
Whether it’s the Forum, the Sistine Chapel, the Colosseum, or St. Peter’s Basilica that interests you, Rome is home to a lifetime’s worth of historical, architectural, and spiritual sites. You’ll also discover Rome to be a modern, vibrant city teeming with crowded cafes, fashionable shops and exciting restaurants. Turn yourself loose and get lost in this remarkable city.
Marseilles, France
The second largest city in France, Marseilles is a true Mediterranean melting pot: Its position as the largest Mediterranean port has attracted a motley crew of sailors and free spirits, immigrants and artists, including Cezanne and le Corbusier. With North African influences, mixed with Mediterranean ingredients, Marseilles also has a unique gastronomic legacy, including pastis, aioli, tapenade, and bouillabaisse. One of the best places to sample this is in one of the dozens of cafes that line the waterfront of the Old Port.
Barcelona, Spain
An important cultural and economic center in Spain, and indeed Europe, Barcelona is known as much for its unique architecture as its gay friendliness. Since its founding, Barcelona has always been a center of art and design, culminating with Gaudi’s masterpiece, the Sagrada Familia Basilica, a prime example of Art Nouveau architecture, with its bold color, beautiful tilework and swirling lines. Spend a day wandering through the old Gothic quarter or take a 30 minute trip to Sitges, the famed gay Spanish beach resort.
The innovative new Celebrity Equinox
There’s never been a ship as hotly anticipated as the trailblazing Celebrity Equinox, the newest ship from the world’s #1 cruise line (according to the readers of Conde Nast Traveler Magazine 2009). Her fresh new design makes a distinctive statement in virtually every room, with a refined level of elegance. As you stroll among the expansive decks, you’ll experience the rich color palettes illuminated by beautiful natural light, and revel in the extensive amenities and beautiful artwork – all delivered with the attentive service for which Celebrity Cruises is renowned.
From her magnificent architecture to advances in technology, Equinox leaves traditional cruise ship convention behind. World-class design talents like Adam Tihaney, Wilson Butler and Francis Martin created innovative spaces and a unique trail-blazing look throughout the ship. From the wrap around glass that surrounds the ship to the walls of light in the main dining room,you’ll quickly see why Equinox is unlike any ship ever built.
Equinox boasts ten uniquely designed lounges and bars, including a Martini Bar with an ice-covered bar, CellarMasters wine bar, and Galleria Tastings for enjoying succulent treats and the occasional impromptu fashion show. Michael’s Club and the Passport bar offer superb intimate retreats for taking a break with friends, and there’s always action in the sophisticated Casino. Quasar, our intimate indoor nightclub, is perfect for Atlantis late-night and early morning parties. But the crown jewel is literally on top of the ship – a vast all-white lounge called Sky Observation Lounge where floor to ceiling windows bring you closer to both the sea and sky.
From the veranda to the bathroom to the living area itself, no ship has better-designed accommodations than Equinox. They’ve been re-engineered for a modern traveler with better sightlines, simple and comfortable design, and innovative and flexible storage throughout. Over 85% of the ship has verandas, the highest percentage of any ship ever built. Every room features a comfortable bathroom, plenty of closet space, pillow-top bedding, and a fantastic interactive 32-inch television system. With 24-hour room service available, you might never leave your stateroom!
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