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Mediterranean Cruise

Bookbag Tours
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July 3rd - 12th, 2026

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Trip Description

Teachers on Cruise Control Trip: Greek Isles and more

Join us for the kind of professional development that educators only dream of! 

You already do enough planning, let us provide a stress-free, fun and authentic learning experience that you will never forget. Join us for this one of a kind trip of experiential learning, self-care, PD & fun in the sun! 

We start our tip with a welcome reception in Athens, followed a visit to landmarks like the Acropolis.  After exploring beautiful Athens, we will embark on the Norwegian Pearl Cruise Ship for a 7 night, 8 port adventure! Enjoy the all inclusive food and beverage package, while taking part in the abundant amount of activities offered by Norwegian!

Discover a new incredible port every day of your Mediterranean cruise aboard Norwegian Pearl!

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Note: Itinerary Subject to Change

Professional Development sessions, facilitated by our accomplished educators from the US.

Terrain: LOTS of stairs and uneven walking paths

Activity Level:  Moderate to High because of the heat and archaeological sites

School Visit:  No

Professional Development – Medium Level

This trip includes educator discussions, offering authentic opportunities for cultural exchange and professional growth. You’ll gain meaningful insights to reflect on and bring back to your classroom. Participants will receive a certificate for 20+ professional development hours. The true magic of PD on this trip comes from the organic conversations and connections you make with fellow educators along the way.

Graduate Credits- In addition, we have partnered with an accredited university to allow participants to earn 1 graduate credit for an additional $100 or 3 graduate credits for an additional $300. 

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Trip leaders:

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Overview

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Overview

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Trip Description

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Trip leaders:

Booking Your Trip

Costs & Inclusions
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Booking Info

Secure your spot on this unforgettable adventure with just a $300 nonrefundable deposit. From there, 40% of your trip cost will be due 6 months before your travel date, and the final payment will be due 3 months prior to departure. It’s a simple, flexible way to lock in your journey and start counting down to the experience of a lifetime!

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Trip pricing can change at any time due to fluctuating travel costs. Book now to lock in your rate and secure your spot at the current price!

✅ What’s Included

  • PD Certificate

    Certificate for 20+ Hours of Professional Development

  • Welcome Reception

    Welcome Reception in Athens

  • Airfare

    Airfare included from major airports, if package selected with air

  • Transfers

    Airport Transfers in Athens, Pireaus, and Venice

  • Accommodations

    2 night hotel stay with breakfast in Athens before cruise

  • Ship Accommodations

    Cruise cabin on ship

  • Destinations

    Athens, Santorini, Greece, Olympia (Katakolon),Greece, Corfu,Greece, Kotor, Montenegro, Split, Croatia, Koper, Slovenia, Venice (Trieste)

  • Open Bar

    Free unlimited open bar on the ship, for drinks up to $13, Bottled Water NOT included

  • Most meals

    Meals on board the ship and breakfast at the hotel. Also 2 Fine Dinning Nights on the ship for 1st and 2nd Guest (Fine dining for Ocean View and above, NOT for Interior Cabin).

  • WiFi

    Free Wifi on the ship (only 150 Min) for 1st and 2nd Guest. If in a triple package, 3rd person will not receive Wifi

  • Sightseeing

    Athens Pass and group tour of Athens

  • Ground Transportation

    All ground transportation to group activities in Athens- 2 Day Metro Card in Athens and transfers from the airport and port to Hotel

  • Shore Excursion Credit

    $50 per cabin per port NCL Shore excursion Credit

  • BBT T-Shirt

    BBT T-Shirt will be sent to participants before their trip

  • The BBT Team

    Your amazing Trip Leaders, your Professional Development facilitators, our Trip Managers, and our On-Site and Off-Site Team members!

  • Service Charge

    Tips for Cruise Ship

❌ What’s Not Included

  • Optional Excursions

    You will have a list of optional excursions for an additional fee, available at a later date through the NCL app.

  • Gratuities

    No Tips are included for guides on land tours

  • Water or Mini Fridge

    Bottled Water on the cruise or Mini Fridge Items (They have water stations where you can fill your bottle)

  • Cruise Travel Insurance

    Strongly suggested

  • Graduate Credit

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Map

1. Athens

Athens, Greece

2. Fira

Fira 847 00, Greece

3. Olympia

Olympia, Greece

4. Corfu

Corfu, Greece

5. Kotor

Kotor, Montenegro

6. Split

Split, Croatia

7. Koper

6000 Koper, Slovenia

8. Venice

Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy

9. Ravenna

Ravenna, Province of Ravenna, Italy

Day 1 - July 3

Arrival in Athens
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Arrive into Athens International Airport (ATH)

Arrive in Athens International Airport and meet your leaders! They will assist you in getting to the hotel.

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Check in at The Stanley Hotel (or similar)

Check inFriday, Jul 3, 2026
Experience The Stanley, a landmark hotel in the heart of Athens, where breathtaking Acropolis views and a vibrant atmosphere await. Enjoy traditional Greek cuisine and unwind by the lush outdoor pool. With its modern fitness center and rich history, The Stanley offers both comfort and convenience for your stay.
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After checking into your hotel, explore Athens.

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Explore Athens On Your Own

This is the cradle of civilization, the oldest city in Europe. Not only is this city home to the Acropolis and some of the most important architectural structures and archaeological finds in the Western world, It is also a very modern city, an urban amalgam of extraordinary art, culture, cuisine and shopping.

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Welcome Reception

Rooftop bar of Stanley orientation & light refreshments

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Group Activity

Professional Development session at 6 pm - 7 pm

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Overnight at the Stanley Hotel (or similar accommodations)

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Arriving early? Let us help you plan your early adventure!

Fill in this form on our website

Day 2 -July 4

Tour Day in Athens
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Breakfast At Hotel (Included)

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Professional Development Session

Professional Development session 9 am - 10 am

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Optional Activity (Additional Fee)

Athens Private Food Tour at 10:30 AM  -Appease your appetite for traditional Greek food during this half-day small-group culinary tour in Athens. Follow your guide to carefully curated specialty food shops, located off the beaten path in residential neighborhoods, to taste Athenian delicacies such as honey, spices, sweets, cured meat, cheese, and olive oil.

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Group Activity: Acropolis site

 🏛️ Explore the Acropolis with Our Professional Guide
Embark on a journey through ancient Greece with a visit to the iconic Acropolis of Athens. With our expert guide by your side, you’ll uncover the rich history, myths, and architectural marvels of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.


Panoramic Views of Athens: Take in breathtaking views of modern Athens from the Acropolis. Our guide will point out key landmarks and share stories of how the ancient city evolved into the vibrant metropolis it is today.

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Overnight in Athens at the Stanley Hotel (or similar accommodations)

Day 3 - July 5

Board Ship
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Breakfast At Hotel (Included)

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Professional Development Session

Professional Development session 9 am - 10 am

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Transfer to Port

Private bus to board the ship.

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Check-in Norwegian Pearl Cruise Ship

Check inFriday, Jul 3, 2026
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All Meals Included on Ship

Day 4 -July 6

Santorini, Greece
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The Ship will be Tendered: 7AM - 6PM

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Explore Santorini

Or Book a Shore Excursion through NCL on Your Own.

Here on the island of Santorini, you’ll find a classic Greek seascape—whitewashed houses accented by sea-blue roofs. This is a treasure trove for both professional and amateur archeology buffs, with sites that include tombs that date back to the 9th century and the sanctuary of Apollo.  (Santorini now charges a tourist fee of approximately 20 Euro. Please have cash available)

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All Meals Included on Ship

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Norwegian Pearl Cruise Ship

Day 5 - July 7

Olympia (Katakolon), Greece
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Ship Docked: 9AM - 7PM

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Explore Katakolon

Or Book a Shore Excursion through NCL on Your Own to Ancient Olympia

This quaint little seaside town on the Ionian Sea is the gateway to Ancient Olympia, where Greek mythology was born and the first Olympiad was held.

You may still be able to hear the distant echoes of the ancient Greeks cheering as you tour the ruins of one of the most important and exciting sanctuaries of antiquity.

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All Meals Included on Ship

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Norwegian Pearl Cruise Ship

Day 6 -July 8

Corfu, Greece
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Ship Docked: 7AM - 5PM

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Explore Corfu

Or Book a Shore Excursion through NCL on Your Own

One of the lushest of the Greek Isles, Corfu is rimmed in dramatic blue waters and topped with tranquil hillside villages.

A collection of quaint cafes in the town of Corfu feels very continental, but the island's secluded coves and sandy beaches could only be found in the Greek Isles.

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All Meals Included on Ship

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Norwegian Pearl Cruise Ship

Day 7 - July 9

Kotor, Montenegro
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Ship Tendered: 7:30 AM - 6 PM

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Explore Kotor

Or Book a Shore Excursion through NCL on Your Own

Tucked away between the mountains and the Bay of Kotor, one of the most indented parts of the Adriatic Sea, is where you’ll find the picturesque town of Kotor.

As you arrive at this secluded city, you’ll notice the dramatic 65-foot high protective walls, which date back to the Venetian period during the 9th century. Stroll the labyrinth of cobbled streets with cozy cafes and craft shops as you marvel the graceful old buildings. Listed as a UNESCO World Natural and Historical Heritage Site, Kotor is also world-famous as a premier yachting and sailing destination.

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All Meals Included on Ship

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Norwegian Pearl Cruise Ship

Day 8 - July 10

Split, Croatia
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Ship Docked: 7AM-5PM

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Explore Split and the Adriatic

Or Book a Shore Excursion through NCL on Your Own

This Mediterranean city on the eastern shores of the Adriatic has a long and eventful history dating back to the awesome Diocletian's Palace (circa 295 A.D.) in the center of the city.

Split offers cruise guests a wealth of exciting places to visit, from the majestic cathedral and marble streets in the center of town to the harbour area with its café-lined promenades and views of coastal mountains.

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All Meals Included on Ship

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Norwegian Pearl Cruise Ship

Day 9 - July 11

Koper, Slovenia
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Ship Docked: 8AM - 7PM

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Explore Koper

Or Book a Shore Excursion through NCL on Your Own

The largest town on the Slovenian coast, Koper boasts a colorful history dating back to Ancient Greece and Rome that springs to life in the Old Town.

Here cruise guests can explore narrow intertwining streets lined with Istrian limestone facades. Enjoy open air festivals and plays, shop for local handicrafts, and savor the local favorites like jota soup, fish specialties and local wines.

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All Meals Included on Ship

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Norwegian Pearl Cruise Ship

Day 10 - July 12

Venice (Ravenna), Italy
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Disembarkation & Transfers – Ravenna to Venice

Disembark starting at 6 AM and time to head home, or extend your stay in Venice! We can help with extending your stay!

On the final day of your cruise, you will disembark in Ravenna. From there, transfers will be provided either directly to Venice Airport for departing flights (No earlier than 12:30 PM departure) , or to your hotel in Venice if you’ve arranged an additional night’s stay.

Please confirm your preferred transfer option with us prior to departure so we can ensure smooth arrangements.

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Depart from Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE)

BBT Leaders will assist you to the airport

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Extending your stay in Venice? 

Let us help you plan your next adventure. Fill in this form on the website OR choose your own activity.

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Venice option:

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Travel Tips

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Travel Tips

  1. Dress comfortably and consider light, breathable fabrics for the warm climate of the Greek Isles.

  2. Stay hydrated! Always have water handy, especially when exploring islands on foot.

  3. Embrace local customs and traditions, such as the evening siesta in smaller towns.

  4. Utilize ferries and local buses to hop between islands easily.

  5. Don’t miss trying local dishes like moussaka and fresh seafood for a true taste of Greece.

  6. Be mindful of local laws and etiquette, particularly in religious sites.

  7. Plan visits to popular beaches and attractions early to enjoy them with fewer crowds.

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A Few Useful Phrases

Here are some useful Greek and Eastern Mediterranean phrases with simple pronunciation guides that will be helpful when traveling around the region.

Hello — Γειά σας (Yasou)

➜ Literally “hello to you.”

Response: And hello to you too — Γειά σας κι εσείς (Yasou ki esis)

Good morning — Καλημέρα (Kalimera)

Good evening — Καλησπέρα (Kalispera)

Goodbye — Αντίο (Adio)

Please — Παρακαλώ (Parakalo)

Thank you — Ευχαριστώ (Efharisto)

You’re welcome — Παρακαλώ (Parakalo)

Yes — Ναι (Ne)

No — Όχι (Ochi)

How much is this? — Πόσο κοστίζει αυτό; (Poso kostizei afto?)

Where is the bathroom? — Πού είναι η τουαλέτα; (Pou einai i toualeta?)

Excuse me / Sorry — Συγγνώμη (Signomi)

I don’t understand — Δεν καταλαβαίνω (Den katalavaino)

Do you speak English? — Μιλάτε αγγλικά; (Milate agglika?)

Delicious! — Νόστιμο (Nostimo!)

Beautiful — Όμορφος (Omorfos)

Bless you (after sneeze) — Να σε έχει καλά ο Θεός (Na se ehi kala o Theos)

About Us

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Bookbag Tours

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What is Bookbag Tours?

Bookbag Tours is dedicated to providing quality professional development through immersive travel experiences for educators and their family and friends. Our trips offer a truly global perspective, allowing participants to gain insights that enrich their classrooms and lives.

Our mission is to empower educators and their companions with hands-on global experiences, equipping them to inspire students both in and out of the classroom.

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What to Expect from Your Trip?

With Bookbag Tours, you’ll earn 20+ professional development hours while exploring incredible countries alongside fellow educators and their guests. We also offer specialized trips focused on Marine Conservation and Ancient Civilizations that provide excellent PD without school visits, ensuring valuable knowledge is brought back to every participant.

We’re committed to enhancing the lives of those who strive to make the world a better place through meaningful group trips, professional development conferences, and cultural engagement.

We're Here to Help

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Contact Us!

We're here to help you plan the perfect adventure! For any inquiries or assistance, feel free to reach out:


Phone or WhatsApp: +1 (864) 907- 9874

Email: [email protected]

DM us on Socials: @bookbagtours

Our team is available to assist with bookings, itinerary changes, and any questions you may have. Let us help you make your dream trip a reality!