"Music gives... soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and charm and gaiety to life and to everything."



– Plato

Exclusive AMFS Performances & Events

• Three private concerts by world-class AMFS artists, designed for intimate, deep listening.
• Salon evening in Athens (Sept. 7 & 8) with performances and discussions on Western music’s origins and artistic influence.

Insightful Discussions on Music & Meaning

• Engaging conversations with AMFS CEO Alan Fletcher on music’s connection to memory, culture, and transcendence.
• Expert-led talks on the historical and modern significance of sound, ritual, and performance.

Curated Readings on Ancient & Byzantine Music

• Exclusive selection of texts on how music and listening shaped ancient and medieval thought.
• A scholarly backdrop enriching the journey’s intellectual and historical depth.

Pre-Cruise Playlist: Music & Mindfulness

• Handpicked works reflecting mindfulness and deep listening traditions explored on the voyage.
• A sonic prelude to the transformative musical experience ahead.

Personalized Concierge Service

• Dedicated support for Transcendence Package guests, ensuring seamless travel and VIP event access.

Set sail on a breathtaking journey from Piraeus to Istanbul through the storied Aegean. Discover the mythical landscapes of Naxos, Crete’s historic Chania harbor, and the grandeur of Knossos. Wander Rhodes’ medieval streets, explore Samos, birthplace of Pythagoras, and soak in the poetic heritage of Chios and Lesbos. Immerse yourself in curated experiences, from archaeological tours to authentic cooking classes and locally distilled spirits. Explore bustling marketplaces, uncover ancient ruins, and take in breathtaking aerial views. Each destination offers a blend of history, culture, and discovery, culminating in the vibrant energy of Istanbul. A voyage of elegance and inspiration, this exclusive journey invites you to explore the legends of the Aegean in ultimate luxury.

Alan Fletcher, a distinguished composer and music administrator, is President and CEO of the Aspen Music Festival and School. He previously held leadership roles at the New England Conservatory and Carnegie Mellon University. A Princeton and Juilliard graduate, he studied with Roger Sessions and Milton Babbitt. Fletcher has composed for major ensembles, including the Pittsburgh and Los Angeles Philharmonics, and has written for publications like The Guardian and The Wall Street Journal. He lectures internationally on music and arts administration.

Anton Nel, the winner of the 1987 Naumburg International Piano Competition, is a renowned soloist, chamber musician, and educator. A Johannesburg native, he studied at the University of Witwatersrand and Cincinnati. He holds the Joe R. and Teresa Lozano Long Endowed Chair at the University of Texas at Austin and teaches master classes worldwide. Nel is a faculty member at AMFS, the Steans Institute, and Orford Music Academy. Acclaimed as a harpsichordist and fortepianist, he joined AMFS in 1997.

Nancy Goeres, Principal Bassoonist of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra since 1984, is an acclaimed soloist and chamber musician. She premiered concertos by Alan Fletcher and Ellen Taaffe Zwilich with the PSO and has performed worldwide. Her solo appearances include works by Haydn, Mozart, and John Williams. A dedicated educator, she has given master classes across the U.S. and internationally, including pioneering an internet-based master class for the New World Symphony in 2004.

Michael Rusinek has been Principal Clarinet of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra since 1998 and has performed with top orchestras worldwide. He premiered Alan Fletcher’s Clarinet Concerto with the PSO in 2008 and has appeared as a soloist with the Belgrade and Czech philharmonics and the Toronto Symphony. A Grand Prize winner of the International Clarinet Society competition, he teaches at Carnegie Mellon and Curtis and regularly performs at Aspen, Grand Teton, and Santa Fe Chamber Music Festivals.

"This is the place for you—not only can you be part of it, but we will change because you are part of us."

– Alan Fletcher, AMFS President and CEO

SH Diana: The Pinnacle of Elegance at Sea

Step aboard SH Diana and experience exceptional service from a dedicated crew committed to making your journey unforgettable. At Swan Hellenic, personal service and genuine hospitality are at the heart of everything we do. Whether it’s a perfectly brewed morning espresso or ensuring your stateroom is just the way you like it, no detail is overlooked. With years of expertise, we take pride in our attentive, thoughtful approach—so you can relax and immerse yourself in the moment.

Luxury Expedition Cruising Redefined

• Small-ship intimacy for an immersive experience
• Expert guides and exclusive shore excursions

All-inclusive pricing, including:

• Gourmet meals, 24-hour room service, coffee, tea, soft drinks, and selected alcoholic beverages
• In-room amenities: Minibar (stocked with snacks, soft drinks, beer), Illy Espresso Coffee Machine, kettle with Kusmi tea, bathrobes and slippers, toiletries by Lajatica, personal safe
• Basic Wi-Fi, onboard gratuities, port taxes, 24/7 self-service laundry
• Complimentary dry bag backpack, and stainless steel water bottle
• Complimentary use of Nikon binoculars throughout your voyage

Premium Suite

From $14,480 per person

• Private balcony
• King size bed
• Separate living space
• Flame-effect fireplace
• Walk-in closet
• Separate tub and shower

Suite

From $13,480 per person

• Private balcony
• King size bed
• Separate living space
• Flame-effect fireplace
• Separate tub and shower

Balcony

From $9,580 per person

• Private balcony
• Double bed, or two single beds
• Living room area
• Flame-effect fireplace

Reserve Your Place on this Exclusive Voyage

Our concierge, Cheryl T., is here to assist you with all inquiries and booking needs. Contact Cheryl at (800) 537-6777.

*Pre-voyage event begins on Sept 7, 2025. Embarkation begins on Sept 9, 2025.

**Subject to change without notice. Inclusive of all AMFS enhancements at a $1,500 pp upgrade. $1000 covers unique programming and benefits. $500 directly supports AMFS’s mission to inspire and connect through the transformative power of music. This fee is not tax-deductible.