Norwegian Pearl Adventure

Embarkation Day: Norwegian Pearl from Athens 🚢

Our Mediterranean cruise officially begins! After two amazing days in Athens (and even a Metallica concert 🎸), it was finally time to board the Norwegian Pearl at Piraeus Port for a 7-day cruise through Greece and Italy — with a different port every single day and NO sea days!

Boarding in Athens was one of the easiest embarkation experiences we’ve ever had. A quick $10 taxi ride from our nearby hotel and we were onboard in no time — mimosas in hand! 🍾

We also got an upgrade to Room 9514, complete with balcony views, Prosecco, and chocolate-covered strawberries thanks to our NCL Gold perks. 🚢✨

The day ended with the famous Norwegian sail away party, followed by an incredible dinner at Lotus Garden, where we enjoyed sushi, dumplings, bang bang shrimp, lobster, and more. 🍣🍤

Next stop: Mykonos! 🇬🇷

🎥 Watch the full episode here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iGMaFvZ3kQg

Day 2: Ancient Olympia & Katakolon, Greece 🇬🇷

Today we explored Katakolon, Greece, home to the legendary Ancient Olympia — the birthplace of the Olympic Games! From standing in the ancient stadium and seeing the Temple of Zeus and Hera, to walking through thousands of years of history, this port was unforgettable.

After exploring the ruins, we headed back to the charming waterfront town of Katakolon for amazing local food. Greek lamb chops, shrimp saganaki, village salad, fresh octopus, and local Greek drinks made this one delicious stop. 🍷🐙

From ancient history to incredible food by the sea, this stop exceeded every expectation.

🎥 Watch the full episode here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HcSEU-3ZFY8

Day 3: Mykonos, Greece 🇬🇷

Today was all about the beauty of Mykonos — from iconic windmills and winding whitewashed streets to incredible Greek food and fun back on the ship! We took the scenic Sea Bus into town, explored Old Town, spotted the famous Mykonos pelican, and soaked in those unforgettable Aegean Sea views.

Lunch with a waterfront view included grilled octopus, refreshing drinks, and stunning views of the windmills, followed by one of our favorite traditions: grabbing an affordable local gyro while exploring the hidden side streets. Back onboard, we ended the night with sushi and karaoke featuring Metallica and Lady Gaga! 🎤🍣

From Greek island charm to unforgettable food and music, Mykonos was a day we’ll never forget.

🎥 Watch the full episode here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=es32nssc8D4

Day 4: Corfu, Greece 🇬🇷

Corfu gave us the perfect mix of history, amazing food, and unforgettable views! Instead of booking an expensive excursion, we explored the island on our own using the Hop-On Hop-Off bus, stopping at some of Corfu’s most iconic spots — including breathtaking views at Kanoni, where planes fly incredibly low overhead! ✈️🌊

We enjoyed a delicious local breakfast overlooking the water, wandered through the charming streets of Old Town Corfu, and checked out the famous Old Fortress surrounded by Venetian architecture and stunning sea views. Lunch was a highlight, with some of the best octopus of the trip at a local favorite restaurant. 🐙🍽️

Back onboard, we slowed things down with a little spa time before ending the night with a fun Teppanyaki dinner and show. Corfu definitely delivered memories we won’t forget!

🎥 Watch the full episode here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1aY9YPYNnIo

Day 5: Kotor, Montenegro 🇲🇪

Today we woke up to the breathtaking beauty of Kotor, Montenegro, surrounded by dramatic mountains and crystal-clear water. After a relaxing room service breakfast onboard, we headed ashore to experience one of Kotor’s biggest attractions — the Kotor Cable Car! The ride to the top gave us incredible views of the bay, clouds rolling over the mountains, and even a look at the famous Alpine Coaster. 🚠⛰️

Back in Old Town Kotor, we wandered the charming stone streets, explored the historic atmosphere, and enjoyed local food — including grilled octopus and some amazing feta cheese at a hidden local spot. 🐙🍽️

Back onboard the Norwegian Pearl, we ended the night with an Italian dinner at La Cucina, plus a new favorite discovery for the Dry Drinker Diaries: Pierre Zero Rosé, one of the best non-alcoholic wines we’ve tried! 🍷✨

🎥 Watch the full episode here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nyp3TAAKORA

Day 6: Split, Croatia 🇭🇷

Today we explored the beautiful city of Split, Croatia — from Roman history to Game of Thrones filming locations and some unforgettable local food! We skipped the expensive tours and explored on our own, wandering through the city, seeing pirate ships in the harbor, and visiting the incredible Game of Thrones Museum, complete with costumes, White Walkers, and even the famous Iron Throne. 👑⚔️

We also walked through the stunning Diocletian’s Palace, revisited Split Beach for a little nostalgia, and enjoyed an authentic Croatian meal at a local Konoba, where we tried black squid ink risotto, stuffed squid, and fresh seafood. 🐙🍽️

Back onboard the Norwegian Pearl, we ended the evening with delicious food at Lotus Restaurant, including some seriously good honey stung shrimp.

🎥 Watch the full episode here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B3pNk90rJqw

Day 7: Slovenia 🇸🇮

Our final port day brought us to the beautiful country of Slovenia, where we explored the fairy-tale beauty of Lake Bled, Bled Castle, and the charming capital city of Ljubljana. From misty mountain views to the iconic church sitting in the middle of the lake, this stop felt like stepping into a postcard. 🏰🇸🇮

We explored Bled Castle, the oldest castle in Slovenia, took in breathtaking views overlooking the lake, and of course tried the famous Original Bled Cream Cake, a must-have local dessert! 🍰 Afterward, we headed into Ljubljana, where we wandered through historic streets, crossed the famous bridges, and ended the day with one of the top-rated pizzas in Europe. 🍕

From castles and lakes to amazing food and unforgettable views, Slovenia was the perfect way to wrap up an incredible adventure.

🎥 Watch the full episode here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7DrFwfLlkps

Venice, Italy 🇮🇹

Our adventure through Venice, Italy was the perfect way to wrap up an unforgettable trip! We hopped on a water taxi into the city, explored the charming streets of Cannaregio, enjoyed a delicious meal at Tortuga Pub, and wandered through hidden corners of Venice filled with history and beautiful canals. 🚤🍕

Of course, no trip to Venice would be complete without visiting the breathtaking St. Mark’s Square. Seeing the incredible architecture, soaking in the atmosphere, and finally standing in one of the world’s most iconic places was truly unforgettable. 🇮🇹✨

We wrapped up the trip relaxing at a beautiful resort near the airport before heading home — full of memories, great food, and so much gratitude for this amazing journey.

🎥 Watch the full episode here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SyNi7sBDfzQ