Footsteps of Paul Cruise/Tour with Dr. Matthew Dodd

Footsteps of Paul Cruise/ Tour with Dr. Matthew Dodd

OCTOBER 22 - NOVEMBER 4 OR 6, 2024
Optional Rome Extension
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Join this Unforgettable Footsteps of Paul Cruise/Tour with Dr. Matthew Dodd, Executive Director of Blessors of Israel

Dear Friends,

Experiencing the places where God used the Apostle Paul and others to proclaim the Gospel has profoundly strengthened my faith and I sincerely wish that for you as well. Whether it’s standing on Mars Hill and reflecting on Paul’s message to the Athenian philosophers or walking through the ancient sites of Rome while appreciating the eternal impact of Paul’s life and ministry, I believe the Footsteps of Paul Cruise/Tour will bless your faith. That’s why I am inviting you to join me on the 2024 Footsteps of Paul Cruise/Tour, October 22nd – November 4th with an optional Rome extension November 4th – 6th.

I look forward to studying Paul’s journeys in the Book of Acts with you while sharing insights from God’s Word regarding the return of our Savior, Jesus Christ. My prayer is that our Lord will refresh your heart and revive your faith during our time together.

I am truly honored to partner Rishon World Tours. Their experienced team has crafted a cruise/tour of a lifetime. We will enjoy first-rate accommodations, delicious cuisine, and an amazing itinerary which includes memorable tours of Athens, Corinth, Ephesus and Cyprus along with stops at Mykonos, Crete, Santorini, and Naples, and an optional Rome extension. If you have any questions, please email Rishon Tours at info@rishontours.com.

Again, thank you for prayerfully considering this opportunity to encourage your faith. I hope to see you there. Shalom! Shalom!

By His grace,

Dr. Matthew Dodd
Executive Director

Footsteps of Paul Cruise/Tours will bring to life Paul’s missionary journeys throughout the eastern Mediterranean. It is often said and is certainly true, that those who travel to the cities of Paul’s journeys will never read their Bible the same again! 

Join us for an unforgettable trip of a lifetime and enjoy the comfort and luxury of a cruise/tour.

October 22-23, 2024

Depart from your local airport and arrive in Athens, Greece

Book your own “multi-city” airfare to depart on October 22, 2024 and plan to arrive at the Athens, Greece Airport (ATH) in the afternoon of October 23rd. Please note that we disembark from our cruise in Rome, Italy. Your return flight will be from Rome (FCO). Let us know your arrival time in Athens and we will arrange a transfer from the airport to our hotel where we will spend the next two nights. If time permits, we will take a bus tour of Athens. Breakfast and dinners in Athens are included at the hotel, lunches are on your own.

October 24, 2024

Corinth & Port of Kechries

We will begin our day with a bus tour to Corinth. We will stop at the Corinth Canal and then continue our journey to the ancient biblical city of Corinth, one of ancient Greece’s most important port cities. Paul spent much time in Corinth and his story comes to life when you stand at the very place where Paul stood trial for preaching the gospel. Lunch on your own at a local restaurant.

Sites you’ll see include:

October 25, 2024

Athens & the Island Princess

After a good night’s rest, we begin our day with a tour of Athens, the foundation of democracy. We will visit the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and Erectheum before viewing Athens from atop Mars Hill where Paul stood and preached the Gospel to the Athenian philosophers. Then we’re off to the port of Piraeus to embark on the Island Princess cruise ship and continue our Footsteps of Paul journey. Enjoy all the meals and amenities offered on this modern and beautiful medallion class cruise ship.

Sites you’ll see include:

October 26-28, 2024

Mykonos, Day at Sea, and Cyprus

Our first stop will be the beautiful Greek island of Mykonos. Explore on your own or book an excursion offered by the Island Princess.

On Oct 27, relax and enjoy the amenities of the ship as you spend a day at sea.

On Oct 28, we will arrive early at Limassol, Cyprus for a six-hour bus tour. Our excursion will take us along the coastal route to include the ancient city-kingdom of Curium with its well-preserved mosaics, theatre, and basilica. Paul and Barnabas preached the gospel throughout Cyprus on their first missionary journey.

Sites you’ll see include:

October 29, 2024

Rhodes

The island of Rhodes was famous for the Colossus of Rhodes and is one of the most popular destinations in Europe. Paul stopped in Rhodes on his third missionary journey. We will enjoy a walking tour of Lindos, a fortress used by the Greeks and Phoenicians, followed by a visit to the great palace and acropolis of the Grand Masters of Knight.

October 30, 2024

Santorini

Today we stop at one of the most beautiful islands in the world. It’s on the bucket list of many! Explore on your own or join a Princess excursion. It is a very beautiful place to walk at your own pace and enjoy the beauty of this iconic Greek island. Please note that this is a seaport where cruise ships cannot dock, and guests will be taken to shore by tender boats.

October 31, 2024

Ephesus

The ship docks at the port of Kusadasi for our visit to Ephesus, the capital of Roman Asia Minor and one of the most important cities of Paul’s missionary journeys.  Paul’s visit there brought a great revival. It is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world.

Sites you’ll see include:

November 1-2, 2024

Crete and a Day at Sea

Arrive in Heraklion, Crete, a beautiful Greek island, known for its famous archeological sites, stunning beaches, and lively town which is full of hidden treasures from the Venetian period. Today we enjoy a half day of excursions to the Knosses Palace and the Koules Venetian Fortress. Enjoy some time exploring on your own before our coach takes us to the port to embark again on our cruise ship.

November 3-4, 2024

Naples and Rome

You will have time to explore southern Italy’s largest city, Naples. Optional cruise excursions are available for you to reserve on your own. There is an interesting connection to Pontius Pilate near here, at the island of Capri. It is part of the back story of why Pilate granted the order that Jesus be crucified. 

We will have an early morning arrival at the cruise terminal in Rome. Those who d0 not select the Rome Extension option will transfer to the airport and depart for the U.S.

Optional Rome Extension

November 4, 2024

Rome - Day 1

Welcome to Rome, Italy! For those opting for the Rome Extension, we will begin our tour of Rome. We will spend two nights here at our hotel with full days of touring this ancient and beautiful city.

Sites you’ll see include:

November 5, 2024

Rome - Day 2

We will begin our second day in Rome with a downtown walking tour. In the afternoon, we visit the traditional site of Paul’s martyrdom, then Palatine Hill, and St. Peter’s Square and an optional tour of the Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel and Basilica. Enjoy some free time to explore Rome on your own.

Sites you’ll see include:

November 6, 2024

Rome - Day 3

Depart for Home

We will transfer to the airport in the morning to depart for the U.S. and enjoy the memories of a trip of a lifetime!

 

Cruise/Tour Pricing (based on double occupancy)
Starting at
Inside Staterooms
$3,420
Inside Cabin: Category ID
$3,430
Inside Cabin: Category IC
$3,440
Inside Cabin: Category IB
Starting at
Outside Staterooms (Picture window)
$3,530
Outside Cabin: Category OE
$3,550
Outside Cabin: Category OC
$3,560
Outside Cabin: Category OB
Starting at
Balcony Staterooms
$4,190
Balcony Cabin: Category BB
Starting at
Mini-Suite Staterooms
$4,410
Mini-Suite: Category ME
$4,450
Mini-Suite : Category MD
$4,530
Mini-Suite : Category MB
Optional Rome Extension (based on double occupancy)
Starting at
$695
Optional Rome Extension per Person
Optional Travel Insurance
Starting at
Travel Insurance
Per Quote
Allianz Group Advantage Plan*
Per Quote
Allianz Classic Plan** with cancel anytime
*
Pricing varies by state
**
Pricing varies by state and age of applicant, cancel at any time - up to 80% of trip cost, must be purchased within 14 days of deposit.
Optional Single Supplement (for solo travelers)
Starting at
Room Type
$1,200
Inside Cabins: Category ID, IC, IB
$1,330
Outside Cabins: Category OE, OC, OB
$1,885
Balcony Cabins: Category BB
$2,130
Mini-Suite: Category ME, MD, MB
$130
Rome Extension
Included in Cruise/Tour 

10 night cruise on ISLAND PRINCESS (includes cruise, meals on ship, select shore excursions, port charges & cruise taxes $168, onboard tip charge $149.00), 2 nights lodging at 4 star hotels including city taxes, 2 breakfasts, 2 dinners in Athens, English speaking tour guides, Services of air conditioned deluxe motor coach, All excursions, guides, entrances, touring and transportation as appears on itinerary, Tips to drivers, guides, and hotel staff, Baggage handling at hotels (one piece), Airport transfers.

NOT Included:

Airline tickets from your local airport, lunches when not on the cruise ship, Optional credit card payments (+3%), optional drink packages on ship, specialty restaurants on ship, optional wi-fi and other amenities onboard ship, personal expenses, Optional travel insurance (see travel insurance costs on reservation form).

Included in Optional Rome Extension

2 nights lodging at 4-star hotel including city taxes, 2 breakfasts, 2 dinners, English speaking tour guides, Services of air-conditioned deluxe motor coach, all guides, entrances, touring and transportation as appears on itinerary, Tips to drivers, guides, and hotel staff, Baggage handling at hotels (one piece), Airport transfers.

NOT Included:

International Airfare, 2 lunches, personal expenses, Optional credit card payments (+3%), Optional travel insurance (see travel insurance costs on reservation form).

Additional Cruise/Tour Options

Please review the following options. You will be able to select your options during the online booking process. Feel free to contact us if you should have any questions.

Optional Rome Extension: cost $695 per person.

Included with Rome extension:
Two nights at a 4 star hotel in Rome, Italy, 2 dinners and 2 breakfasts at hotel, guides, entrances, touring and transportation as appears on itinerary, Tips to drivers, guides, and hotel staff, Baggage handling at hotels (one piece), Airport transfers.

NOT Included with Rome extension:
Airline tickets from your local airport, 2 lunches, optional credit card payments (+3%), personal expenses, optional travel insurance (see travel insurance costs on reservation form).

Itinerary of optional Rome extension:
You will spend two nights at your 4-star hotel in Rome with full days of touring this ancient and beautiful city.

Sites you’ll see on Day 1 of the Rome extension include: catacombs, Coliseum, Arch of Titus, Roman Forum, Mamertine Prison exterior

You will begin your second day in Rome with a downtown walking tour. In the afternoon, visit the traditional site of Paul’s martyrdom, then Palatine Hill, and St. Peter’s Square and an optional tour of the Vatican Museum and Basilica. Enjoy some free time to explore Rome on your own.

Sites you’ll see include: Piazza Navona, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Spanish Steps, Abby of the Three Fountains, Palatine Hill, St. Peter’s Square

The Footsteps of Paul Cruise/Tour does not include flights. However, Rishon Tours is available to make your flight arrangements if you would like. This service is available upon request for a service fee of $75 for economy class seats. 

If you book your own flights, please book your “multi-city” flights so as to depart from your airport on October 22, 2024, to arrive in Athens, Greece (ATH) in the afternoon of October 23, 2024. The cruise/tour ends in Rome, Italy, so you will need to be certain that your flight home departs from Rome, Italy (FCO).

If you select the optional Rome extension, you will want to book you return flight from Rome, Italy (FCO) for the morning of November 6, 2024. If you do not select the Rome extension, you will want to book your return flight from Rome, Italy (FCO) for late morning or early afternoon on November 4, 2024.

Please send your flight itinerary to info@rishontours.com and we will make arrangements for you for transfers from the Athens airport to our hotel on October 23, 2024 and a transfer to the Rome, Italy airport at the end of the cruise/tour.

The Footsteps of Paul Cruise/Tour pricing is based on double occupancy. If you are traveling solo or do not have a roommate, a “single supplement” fee will be added to your account in the booking process.

The single supplement fee is based on the cabin accommodations you select.:

INSIDE cabin categories ID, IC, and IB – $1200

OUTSIDE cabin categories – OC, OD, and OB – $1300

BALCONY cabins category BB – $1800

MINI-SUITE cabin categories MC, MD, MA – $2100

Rome Extension – $130

Travel insurance is highly recommended. Please see “Should I Purchase Travel Insurance” on the Resources page for a great article on the importance of purchasing travel insurance.

An Allianz group travel insurance policy is available to purchase in the booking process. Pricing is based on the overall trip cost (including cost of flights). Please see the chart below for group travel insurance pricing. Please click on the link below to download the policy details according to your state of residence. 

Individual travel insurance policies are also available, such as the “Classic Plan – with Cancel Anytime” provision. Rates must be quoted as they are based on age and state of residency. Please indicate if you would like a quote during the online booking process.

Allianz Classic Plan -with Cancel Anytime provision must be purchased within 14 days of initial deposit.

Footsteps of Paul Cruise/Tour... Sailing aboard the ISLAND PRINCESS

Cabin Categories aboard the ISLAND PRINCESS

Our Footsteps of Paul Cruise/Tour includes a 10-day cruise aboard the ISLAND PRINCESS, a Medallion Class Cruise Ship, awarded “Best Cruise Ship for Service” by Cruiser’s Choice Awards. Truly a retreat on the sea.

Inside Cabins: Our Most Affordable Option

Inside cabin categories ID, IC or IB, starting at $3420 per person, based on double occupancy.

These staterooms are the perfect place to recharge your batteries. Our most affordable option, featuring two twin beds or a queen-size bed. Other amenities include a refrigerator, hair dryer, TV, closet and bathroom with shower.

  • Approx. 158 to 162 sq ft.
  • Comfortable queen or two twin beds
  • Refrigerator.
  • Flat-panel television
  • Private bathroom with shower
  • 100% cotton, high-thread count linens
  • 24-hour room service
  • Spacious closet

Outside Cabins: A Room with a View

Outside cabin categories OE, OC, or OB, starting at $3530 per person, based on double occupancy.

Enjoy the added benefit of a view of the ocean from either a picture window or porthole that brings in natural light. This stateroom includes all the amenities of an interior room

  • Approx. 146 to 206 sq. ft.
  • A spacious picture window for memorable views
  • Comfortable queen or two twin beds
  • Refrigerator.
  • Flat-panel television

Balcony Cabins: A Front Row Seat for Beautiful Scenery

Balcony category BB, starting at $4190 per person, based on double occupancy.

This impressive stateroom offers the added indulgence of a balcony and gives you more space than a standard stateroom. Enjoy your own private outdoor space with a table, two chairs, and a relaxing view of the inspiring scenery surrounding you, whether a beautiful sunset over the ocean or a new city to explore. 

  • Approx. 214 to 222 sq. ft., including balcony
  • Balcony with 2 chairs and table
  • Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors
  • Comfortable queen or two twin beds
  • Refrigerator

Mini-Suites: Add an Element of Luxury to Your Stay

Mini-Suite categories ME, MD, and MB, starting at $4410 per person, based on double occupancy

Choose a luxurious Mini-Suite with balcony* which is substantially larger than a Balcony stateroom. Mini-Suites include a separate sitting area with sofa bed and two flat-panel televisions. For families or groups needing a little extra space, Mini-Suites offer an appealing and affordable option.

  • Approximately 323 sq. ft., including balcony
  • Balcony with 2-4 chairs, table and ottoman
  • Bathroom tub and massage shower head
  • Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors
  • Separate sitting area with sofa bed & coffee table
  • Luxury mattress topper and pillows
  • Two flat-panel televisions
  • Comfortable queen or two twin beds
  • Refrigerator
  • 100% cotton, high-thread count linens
  • 24-hour room service
  • Spacious closet
  • Desk with chair
  • Hair dryer & bathroom amenities
  • Digital security safe

Deck 5 - Plaza.

Cruise/Tour Important Information

Footsteps of Paul Cruise/Tour Oct 22- Nov 4 or 6, 2024

Please review the following frequently asked questions (FAQs). Feel free to contact us if you should have any questions.

Cancellation in writing must be received by Rishon World Tours 91 days prior to departure for refund of deposit minus service fees. Airline penalties are not part of the percentages below and vary based on the airline policy at the time of ticket issue.
91+ Days Prior: $100 Per Person Service Fee
90-61 Days Prior: Deposit Amount
60-46 Days Prior: 40% of tour cost lost
45-31 Days Prior: 65% of tour cost lost
30-8 Days Prior: 85% of tour cost lost
7 Days Prior or less: 100% of tour cost lost.
Travel insurance is non-refundable.

Rest assured that tips for drivers, guides, and hotel staff are included in your tour price. Even the daily gratuity charge onboard the Island Princess Cruise ship is included.

However, if you opt to dine onboard at a specialty restaurant, or order drinks or other extras, tips may be added to your ship account which you need to pay before disembarking at the end of the cruise portion of the journey.

In addition, some travelers want to give extra tips to a beloved guide or driver and that would certainly be welcome.

Covid-19 vaccinations are not required to board the cruise ship and will not be required for any other part of the cruise/tour. You will not be asked to provide evidence of vaccination. 

Visitors to Greece, Turkey, or Rome will not need to obtain visas to enter any of these countries as a tourist as you are staying less than 90 days. 

The amount of cash you will need will vary depending on your appetite for shopping. It’s a trip of a lifetime and you’ll no doubt want to bring home some mementos of the journey. Most shops and stores will accept credit cards and the exchange rate should be favorable. 

However, you might want to bring cash for any meals that are not included on the tour such as lunches when we are on excursions or are touring before and after the cruise. Typical lunches could be $15-20 per person.

Walking will be part of the cruise/tour and we encourage each traveler to be able to walk at least a mile and be able to climb stairs when needed. 

Tour participation is available to all travelers, however, and will not be withheld if the tour operator can furnish the requirements that an individual may need.


Because most of our Tour sightseeing schedules require tour members to walk 1-2 miles at a time using a moderate pace and sometimes navigate uneven terrain, we cannot accept persons who cannot do so and instead require special assistance. Should any Tour Member’s participation somehow materially add to the tour operator’s cost, the Tour Member will be expected to pay any additional costs. The Tour Director retains the right to require any non-sufficiently mobile persons to stay behind when deemed necessary.

The climate of the Mediterranean during October is often excellent. This is a great time of year to take a Footsteps of Paul Mediterranean Cruise/Tour as it will not be nearly as warm as during the summer months.

Below is a checklist to help you pack to make your travel experience exceptional. When we embark on the cruise portion of our journey, your luggage will be delivered to your cabin at an unspecified time on the day of departure, so it’s a good idea to pack a change of clothes, toiletries and any medications you may need in your carry-on bag to bring with you.

Dining Dress Code

On a typical ten-day cruise, there are usually two evenings you are invited to dress up for a formal dinner. These are optional, but we encourage you to participate as they are a fun way to experience a cruise. We suggest a semi-formal dress or skirt and blouse for women and a suit for men. The remaining dinners on the ship are informal, although if you dine in the restaurants, we suggest—blouse and pants for women and a collared shirt with trousers for men. Remember that buffet areas will also be available if you prefer.

Packing Checklist

  • Casual and comfortable clothes including pants, jeans, shorts, T-shirts, collared shirts or blouses
  • Light sweater or jacket
  • Semi-formal clothes or dress clothes for 1-2 formal evenings
  • Bathing suit and a cover-up or wrap if you would like to use the pools on the ship
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
  • Toiletries, in a sealed, clear bag inside your luggage
  • Medications in their original containers
  • Small bag or backpack for port days
  • Passport with separate photocopy

Packing Tips

Do not pack your passport or travel documents in your luggage. Mark your luggage and carry-on bag with your name and address so you can distinguish them easily. We recommend you also put identification information—name, address and phone number—INSIDE your luggage in case the luggage tags are lost in transit. We suggest keeping your essential toiletries and a one-day change of clothes in your carry-on.  You keep a color copy of the information page of your passport inside your luggage in case your passport is lost.

Many excursions at port stops are included with your cruise/tour. Excursions are planned for Ephesus, which will include lunch; Cyprus will be a wonderful excursion, Crete and Rhodes are also excursions which are included with your cruise/tour. 

There also will be port stops where you will be able to explore on your own or book an optional excursion from Princess Cruises. These port stops are Mykonos, Santorini and Naples. Mykonos and Santorini in particular are fun to explore on your own. In Naples, you might consider booking a ferry to the island of Capri, a short distance from Naples.

 

If you would like to arrive a day or more early to explore on your own, Rishon Tours would be happy to make the arrangements for you. Please send us an email at info@rishontours.com and we’ll work with you to customize your pre-trip experience. 

If you would like to stay in Rome an extra day or more to explore on your own, we would be more than willing to make the arrangements, book your hotel, etc. Just let us know by email at info@rishontours.com. We are here to serve you.

The short answer is yes. If you need to cancel your reservation and would like to transfer your reservation to a different cruise or tour with Rishon Tours, we will do our best to accommodate your request. 

Let’s explore how to effectively use your cell phone internationally, ensuring you stay connected and make the most of your travel experience.

Check with Your Service Provider

Before embarking on your journey, it’s essential to contact your service provider to inquire about international roaming plans. Many mobile carriers offer special packages tailored to international travelers. These plans usually include data, call, and text allowances for a fixed fee. Make sure to understand the details, costs, and coverage of the plan before making a decision.

Unlocking Your Phone

If you have a locked phone, you might not be able to use a local SIM card while traveling. Unlocking your phone is the process of removing carrier restrictions, allowing you to use SIM cards from different providers. Contact your service provider to inquire about unlocking options or consider third-party services.

Purchase a Local SIM Card

One of the most cost-effective ways to stay connected while abroad is to purchase a local SIM card. This allows you to have a local phone number, access local networks, and enjoy cheaper rates for calls, texts, and data. Ensure your phone is unlocked before purchasing a SIM card, and don’t forget to save or transfer important contacts and data before switching.

Wi-Fi Connectivity

Utilizing Wi-Fi is an excellent way to reduce data usage and stay connected for free. Most hotels, cafes, and public spaces offer Wi-Fi hotspots that allow you to make calls, send messages, and browse the internet. Remember to exercise caution when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks by using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) for added security.

Messaging and Calling Apps

Take advantage of messaging and calling apps, such as WhatsApp, Viber, or Skype, to send messages, make calls, and share media with your contacts. These apps use internet-based communication, allowing you to avoid expensive international roaming charges. Ensure that the people you want to connect with also have the same app installed.

Data Usage Tips

Using data while traveling can quickly consume your phone’s battery and incur high charges. To minimize data usage, consider the following tips:

Disable automatic updates for apps.

Turn off push notifications for email and social media apps.

Download maps and travel guides before leaving your accommodation and use them offline.

Use offline navigation apps like Google Maps Offline, Maps.me, or CityMaps2Go.

Conclusion:

Staying connected while traveling internationally doesn’t have to be stressful or costly. By planning ahead, understanding your mobile carrier’s international plans, unlocking your phone, and utilizing local SIM cards, Wi-Fi, messaging apps, and data-saving techniques, you can make the most of your cell phone without breaking the bank. Remember, staying connected is important, but don’t forget to take some time to unplug and enjoy the destination you’re exploring. Safe travels!

Traveling to other parts of the world on a Footsteps of Paul Cruise/Tour is an exceptional travel experience that offers you both fun and the opportunity to become spiritually inspired. While you’re traveling with Rishon Tours, we want to make your journey as carefree as possible by covering most of the tips and gratuities on your cruise/tour. This includes the daily gratuity charge onboard the ship – this is covered by your tour cost. Please note, however, that extras onboard the ship such as specialty restaurants and not-included drinks will result in additional gratuity charges which will be added to your ship bill, and you will need to pay these additional gratuity charges before disembarking.

Tips to porters, hotel bellman, drivers and your tour guides, however, are all included. If you visit various restaurants apart from the cruise/tour, however, remember to acknowledge and reward excellent service.

In most parts of the world, the general guideline for restaurant service workers is 10-12% of the bill and 15% to acknowledge excellent service.