Join this Unforgettable Footsteps of Paul Cruise/Tour
Dear Friends,
I’m pleased to invite you to join the Footsteps of Paul Cruise/Tour.
Experiencing the places where God used the Apostle Paul and others to proclaim the Gospel will profoundly strengthen your faith. Whether it’s standing on Mars Hill and reflecting on Paul’s message to the Athenian philosophers or walking through the ancient biblical sites of Thessaloniki, Ephesus, or Rome, I believe the Footsteps of Paul Cruise/Tour will bless your faith.
You will have an opportunity to study Paul’s journeys in the Book of Acts while touring ancient cities of the bible – and get to enjoy cruising the Mediterranean on the medallion class Celebrity Infinity Cruise Ship! My prayer is that our Lord will refresh your heart and revive your faith on such an inspiring cruise/tour.
The experienced team at Rishon World Tours have crafted a journey of a lifetime. You will enjoy first-rate accommodations, delicious cuisine, and an amazing itinerary that includes tours of Athens, Volos, Thessaloniki, Kavala, and Ephesus along with stops at Mykonos, the beautiful Greek island of Santorini, with an optional Rome extension. If you have any questions about the itinerary or accommodations, please email Rishon World Tours at info@rishontours.com.
You are invited to join the Footsteps of Paul Cruise/Tour, an opportunity to encourage and strengthen your faith!
Blessings,
Rich Jones, President
Rishon World Tours
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.
Day 1
Depart from your local airport and arrive in Athens, Greece
Book your own “multi-city” airfare to arrive at the Athens, Greece Airport (ATH) in the afternoon of your arrival date. Please note that we disembark from our cruise in Athens, Greece. If you are joining us for the optional Rome extension, your return flight will be from Rome (FCO). We will take a bus tour of Athens from the Athens Airport to the hotel. Breakfast and dinners in Athens are included at the hotel, lunches are on your own.
Day 2
Athens & the Celebrity Infinity
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 Celebrity Infinity cruise ship and continue our Footsteps of Paul journey. Enjoy all the meals and amenities offered on this modern and beautiful cruise ship.
Sites you’ll see include:
- The Acropolis
- The Agora
- Mars Hill
Day 3 & 4
Day at Sea & Rhodes
Day 3 – Relax and enjoy the amenities of the ship as you spend a day at sea.
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.
Day 6 – Relax and enjoy the amenities of the ship as you spend a day at sea.
- Palace of the Knights of Rhodes
- The Ancient Medieval Old City of Rhodes
- Acropolis of Lindos
- Lindos Fortress
- Grand Masters of Knights Palace and acropolis
Day 5
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:
- Ephesus Amphitheater
- Temple of Diana
- Famous Library of Ephesus
- Marble Street and Gymnasium
- Temple of Hadrian
Day 6
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 Celebrity 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.
Day 7
Mykonos
Our next stop will be the beautiful Greek island of Mykonos. You can explore on your own or book an excursion offered by Celebrity.
Day 8
Kavala (Philippi)
Tucked into the northeastern coast of Greece, the hillside city of Kavala (ancient city of Philippi) overlooks the Aegean Sea and is the main seaport of eastern Macedonia. Philippi was the first European city that Paul preached the Gospel. We will tour the Archeological Site of Philippi along with Saint Lydia’s Baptistry and the Monument of Saint Paul. After our tour, enjoy lunch on your own and free time before our coach takes us back to our cruise ship.
Sites you’ll see include:
- Archeological Site of Philippi
- Saint Lydia’s Baptistry
- Monument of Saint Paul
Day 9 & 10
Thessaloniki & Day at Sea
Our day begins in Thessaloniki, Greece where the Apostle Paul preached the Gospel and wrote two letters to the Church in Thessalonica to encourage the saints to be prepared for Jesus Christ’s return. Today, Thessaloniki is the second largest city in Greece and filled with significant biblical history. Next we will travel by bus to Veria, Greece, which was called Berea in Paul’s day. In the Book of Acts, Luke noted that the Jews in Berea “received the word with great eagerness” and “many of them believed” (Act 17:11-12). After we tour one of the oldest synagogues in the Balkans, we will enjoy lunch on our own and time to explore before our coach returns us to our cruise ship.
Sites you’ll see include:
- Archeological Museum of Thessaloniki
- White Tower
- The Jewish Synagogue
Day 11
Athens
After a good night’s rest, we disembark our cruise ship, meet our guide, and begin our day with a tour of the Acropolis Museum. Followed by a funicular ride up Mount Lycabbetus for a breathtaking view of the city from the highest point in central Athens. Lunch on your own at a local restaurant and time for shopping.
After a full day in Athens, we will head to the airport for an evening flight to Rome, Italy.
Sites you’ll see include:
- Acropolis Museum
- Mt. Lycabettus
Optional Rome Extension
Rome - Day 1
Welcome to Rome, Italy! After our evening flight from Athens to Rome, we will be transported to our hotel for a good night’s rest so that we are ready to start touring this ancient, beautiful city the next morning.
Rome - Day 2
We will begin our day with a visit to the Colosseum where thousands of people, animals, and Christians perished. We will continue our trou at the ancient Roman Forum, where our guide will divulge its secrets. We will also visit the Arch of Titus, the Palatine Hill, and the exterior of the Mamertine Prison, where tradition holds that Paul was imprisoned. Next, we will visit to the Catacomb, where thousands of Christians were buried.
Sites you’ll see include:
- Colosseum
- Roman Forum
- Arch of Titus
- Palatine Hill
- Mamertine Prison
- Catacombs
Rome - Day 3
Our day begins in Rome with a visit to the Abbey of Three Fountains, the traditional site of Paul’s martyrdom. Then a downtown walking tour that includes the Piazza Navona, the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and the Spanish Steps. Next, we will visit St. Peter’s Square for an optional tour of the Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel, and Basilica. Enjoy some free time to explore Rome on your own. Get a good night of rest at the hotel, we will be flying home in the morning.
Sites you’ll see include:
- Abbey of Three Fountains
- Piazza Navona
- Trevi Fountain
- Pantheon
- Spanish Steps
- St. Peter’s Square
Rome - Day 4
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!
Included in Cruise/Tour
9 night cruise on CELEBRITY INFINITY (includes cruise, meals on the ship, select shore excursions, port charges & cruise taxes, onboard tip charges), 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 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
3 nights lodging at 4-star hotel including city taxes, 3 breakfasts, 3 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, 3 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.
Rome extension
Optional Rome Extension: cost $965 per person.
Included with Rome extension:
Three nights at a 4 star hotel in Rome, Italy, 3 dinners and 3 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, 3 lunches, optional credit card payments (+3%), personal expenses, optional travel insurance (see travel insurance costs on reservation form).
Sites you’ll see on the optional Rome extension include: Catacombs, Colosseum, Arch of Titus, Roman Forum, Mamertine Prison exterior, Piazza Navona, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Spanish Steps, Abbey of the Three Fountains, Palatine Hill, St. Peter’s Square.
Flights & Seat upgrades
Rishon Tours offers group flights for this Footsteps of Paul Cruise/Tour. Please select airfare or seat upgrades during online booking.
Economy flights from – *will be quoted at the time of group booking.
If you book your own flights, please book your “multi-city” flights so as to depart from your airport to arrive in Athens, Greece (ATH) in the afternoon. The cruise/tour ends in Athens, Greece. If you select the optional Rome extension, you will want to book your return flight from Rome, Italy (FCO) for the morning at the end of the cruise/tour. If you do not select the Rome extension, you will want to book your return flight from Athens, Greece (ATH) for late morning or early afternoon on disembarkation day.
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 and a transfer to the Rome, Italy airport at the end of the cruise/tour.
Single Supplement option
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.
Travel insurance
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 CELEBRITY INFINITY
Cabin Categories aboard the CELEBRITY INFINITY
- Inside Cabins
- Ocean View Cabins
- Veranda (Balcony) Cabins
- Concierge
- AquaClass
Our Footsteps of Paul Cruise/Tour cruise is aboard the CELEBRITY INFINITY, a Millennium-Class Cruise Ship.
Inside Cabins: Our Most Affordable Option
Inside cabin category is priced per person, based on double occupancy.
These staterooms are the perfect place to recharge your batteries. Our most affordable option features two twin beds or a queen-size bed.
- Approx. 170 sq ft.
- Interior stateroom
- Standard Amenities
- King-size Cashmere™ Mattress & eXhale® bedding*
- Custom blended bathroom products
- Hair Dryer
- Individual Safe
- Interactive TV System
Ocean View Cabins: A Room with a View
Ocean View cabin category is priced per person, based on double occupancy.
Expansive views make Ocean View Staterooms the ideal place to unwind at sea. These perfectly indulgent spaces with everything a modern traveler needs.
- Approx. 171 sq. ft.
- Ocean view stateroom
- Standard Amenities
- King-size Cashmere™ Mattress & eXhale® bedding*
- Window provides relaxing ocean views, natural light
- Location options from lower to central decks
- 100% cotton bathrobes & towels
- Hair Dryer
- Individual Safe
- Custom blended bathroom products, shower cap, cotton balls and cotton swabs
- Interactive TV System
Veranda Cabins: A Front Row Seat for Beautiful Scenery
Veranda category is priced per person, based on double occupancy.
Ample indoor and outdoor space come together to create your private sanctuary at sea. Your personal veranda lets you greet the day, enjoy fresh sea breezes, and soak in breathtaking sunsets.
- Approx. 175 sq. ft., including balcony
- Veranda (balcony) stateroom
- Standard Amenities
- Private veranda with outdoor seating
- Celebrity’s eXhale™ bedding & Cashmere Mattress
- 100% cotton bathrobes & towels
- Complimentary Tote Bag
- Hair Dryer
- Custom blended bathroom products, shower cap, cotton balls and cotton swabs
- Smart TV
- Individual Safe
- 100% cotton linens & plush down comforters
- Mini Fridge
Concierge Cabins: Upgrade Your View With Special Services and Amenities
Concierge category is priced per person, based on double occupancy.
A dedicated concierge is always just steps away from your room to assist with your vacation needs. You’ll find its little details so meticulously thought out that they truly make a world of difference. It’s a room that’s so much more than a room—it’s an experience.
- Approx. 209 sq. ft., including balcony
- Veranda (balcony) stateroom
- Standard Amenities; Plus dedicated concierge service & destination seminar
- Personalized Concierge service
- Exclusive Concierge Class Lunch
- Celebrity’s eXhale™ bedding
- Sitting area with sofa
- Twice Daily Housekeeping
- Veranda with lounge seating
- Complimentary Tote Bag
AquaClass Cabins: Your Escape at Sea
AquaClass category is priced per person, based on double occupancy.
AquaClass guests enjoy an impressive stateroom with a spacious private veranda 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. Plus, unlimited access to the Persian Garden, complimentary dining at Blu, and personal spa concierge.
- Approx. 209 sq. ft., including balcony
- Veranda (balcony) stateroom
- Standard Amenities; Plus access to Persian Garden & exclusive dining at Blu
- Private veranda opens to outdoor seating
- VIP Tour of the Spa
- Expanded room service breakfast menu
- Premium Ship Location
- Twice Daily Housekeeping
- Complimentary Tote Bag
- Hair Dryer
Cruise/Tour Important Information
Please review the following frequently asked questions (FAQs). Feel free to contact us if you should have any questions.
What is the cancellation policy?
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: 25% of tour cost lost
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
Group airfare is non-refundable after ticketing
Travel insurance is non-refundable
Should I bring money for tipping?
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.
Are Covid-19 vaccinations required?
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.
Will I need any visas on this trip?
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.
How much cash should I plan to bring?
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.
How much will we be walking on this trip?
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.
How should I pack for a Footsteps of Paul Cruise/Tour?
The climate of the Mediterranean during the spring and fall months 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.
Are cruise excursions included in the cruise/tour pricing?
Many excursions at port stops are included with your cruise/tour.
There will also be port stops where you will be able to explore on your own or book an optional excursion from the cruise line.
Can I extend my travel experience?
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.
Can I transfer my reservation to a different cruise/tour?
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.
Can I use my cellphone on a cruise/tour?
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!
Do I need to leave tips on a cruise/tour?
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.