Rome & the First Century Church Cruise with Guest Speaker Amy Van Dyke

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See where you're going before you go

Tour: TJ27 Code: V

Join us for a Rome & the First Century Church Cruise with Guest Speaker Amy Van Dyke aboard the Norwegian Viva, starting at $5,998* from New York on June 21, 2027. You will see Istanbul, Turkiye, Santorini, Mykonos, Athens, Olympia, Valletta, Catania, Salerno, Rome, and so much more!

Amy Van Dyke, Lead Curator of Art & Exhibitions at the Museum of the Bible, has training and degrees in art history, secondary education, and museum studies. She has taught various courses in art, art history, and world history. She also developed and wrote a school-wide art curriculum. Amy has given several lectures, including “Biblical Art and Theology: How Artists Influence our Understanding of the Bible” and “How to Illustrate God: The Difficulty in Depicting the Divine.” Since joining Museum of the Bible in 2012, Amy has coordinated, written, or assisted with over 50 exhibitions. Her current work as lead curator of art and exhibitions involves developing content, coordinating and curating exhibitions, and researching, lecturing, and curating the art within the museum collections.

This is not sightseeing. This is the Bible coming alive

Most people read about Ephesus, Smyrna, and Laodicea their whole lives — from a pew, from a page. This journey puts you inside the story.

You’ll stand in the theater where Paul preached in Acts 19. You’ll walk the streets of Laodicea where Jesus said, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock.” You’ll pray where the early church prayed — in the ruins of Pergamon, in the sacred pools of Hierapolis, in the underground cities where Christians hid to survive.

No amount of reading prepares you for what it feels like to be there.

When you return home, you will:

3 domestic flights — already included in your price

Most travelers don’t realize how far apart these cities are — or how much domestic flights cost when booked independently. These tickets run $300–500 per person and require separate booking, check-in, and logistics.

In this tour, domestic flights are included in your price. We book them on your behalf. You don’t search, you don’t book, you don’t pay extra. You just show up.

That’s $600–1000 in flights per couple — already taken care of.

Accommodations

Accommodations in 4- and 5-star hotels

Meals

Breakfasts and dinners (buffet style) at the hotels

Transportation

Luxury, air-conditioned buses

Group Size

20-30

Language

English and Spanish

Pets

Not allowed

Age Range

8–79 (years)

Season

All

The more of you there are — the less each person pays

This tour is built for groups. Whether you’re a couple, a family, or an entire congregation — the price per person drops as your group grows. Send us your group size and we’ll send back an exact quote.

Group Size	Price Per Person	Note
2 people	From $3,899	Starting price
4 people	From $3,299	Price drops per person
6 people	From $2,999	Better savings
10–19 people	Request quote — best value	Recommended group size
20+ people	Custom pricing	Extended itinerary available →

✦ GROUP OF 20+? We can extend your journey to 10–14 days, add exclusive destinations, and offer our best group pricing. Contact us for a custom group proposal →

Exact pricing depends on group size, travel dates, and departure city. Send us your details — we’ll respond with a full quote within 48 hours.

Your dates. Your pace. Your group.

No fixed departures — that’s intentional. This tour is available year-round. You choose the dates that work for your family, your church, or your travel group. We build everything around your schedule.

Best months to travel:

April – June: mild weather, blooming landscapes, fewer crowds
September – November: warm days, cool evenings, post-summer calm
December – March: lowest prices, quietest sites — ideal for smaller groups

Popular months (April–June and September–October) fill up weeks in advance. The sooner you send us your dates — the more options we can offer.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

Everything is organized. You focus on the experience

Included in your tour price:

All Inclusive Pricing
Fuel Surcharges and Gov't Taxes
International Airfare from NY
Meals on Ship
Port Charges
Select Shore Excursions
Cruise
3 Meal Specialty Dining Package
Administrative Fee
Pre-paid Cruise Gratuities
Wi Fi login (1 per stateroom)

Not included (paid separately):

Tour Itinerary

Expand All +

Rome & the First Century Church Cruise with Guest Speaker Amy Van Dyke | June 21, 2027
Day 1
June 21 – Depart the USA

Transportation:

Airplane, bus

Events:

Depart the USA
Day 2
June 22 – Arrive in Istanbul

Transportation:

Bus

Events:

Arrive in Istanbul and transfer to your hotel for dinner and overnight.

Meals:

Breakfast. Lunch.
Day 3
June 23 – Istanbul, Turkiye

Transportation:

Bus

Events:

The bejeweled capital of Istanbul sits between two continents and is home to 450 mosques. You will visit the famous Blue Mosque with its six minarets and sparkling interior. Walk through St. Sophia (Hagia Sophia), which was the largest church in Christendom for 1000 years, built by Justinian (532-537 A.D.). The church has 107 columns; fossil imbedded white marble floors, and beautiful glass mosaics. Today, it is the Museum of Byzantine Art. Enjoy the aroma of cinnamon, cloves, thyme, and other exotic spices as you explore the Grand Bazaar. Over 4000 shops sell everything from herbs to gold. In the afternoon, board the Norwegian Viva.

Meals:

Breakfast. Lunch.
Day 4
June 24 – Kusadasi, Turkiye

Transportation:

Bus, airplane

Events:

Ephesus was the leading one of the Seven Churches of Revelation and was once a bustling port town with wide, colonnade-bordered streets and had a population of 250,000. Spectacular excavations in the last 110 years have revealed much of the glory of ancient Ephesus, including the huge Agora and the Library, much has been lost. Explore the ancient site virtually at the Ephesus Experience Museum where you will see life in Paul’s time. We will view the terrace houses, also known as "the house of the rich," which gives a true impression of the ancient lifestyle. The ancient world once declared the Temple of Artemis to be one of the Seven Wonders of the World but today, only a single column remains to mark its site.

Meals:

Breakfast. Lunch.
Day 5
June 25 – Santorini, Greece

Transportation:

Bus

Events:

Dock in Santorini today, one of the most beautiful of the Greek islands, where picturesque, whitewashed villages topped with brilliant blue domes stand in stark contrast to the sheer-drop cliffs overlooking the Aegean Sea. The island itself perches on the edges of a volcano whose eruption 3,500 years ago is thought to have led to the collapse of the Minoan civilization. Explore the island on your own or join one of the optional excursions available for purchase on board. Shore excursions are not included today and can be purchased directly from Norwegian.

Meals:

Breakfast. Lunch
Day 6
June 26 – Mykonos, Greece

Transportation:

Bus

Events:

Mykonos is a classic Greek Island with whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches and windmills. Add a reputation for beautiful beaches and you'll understand why Mykonos is the most popular island in the Cyclades. Explore the island in a 4 x 4 or take a ferry to the tiny island of Delos. Shore excursions are not included today and can be purchased directly from Norwegian.

Meals:

Breakfast. Lunch.
Day 7
June 27 – Athens, Greece

Transportation:

Bus

Events:

Discover the rich architectural splendor of the ancient city of Athens as you explore the world-renowned Acropolis, the Propylaea, the Parthenon and the Erectheum. Stand on Mars Hill as the apostle Paul did when he proclaimed, "I found an altar with this inscription, TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, him declare I unto you". Also view the House of Parliament, the Presidential Palace, and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This afternoon tours the city of Corinth, where the apostle Paul met fellow tentmakers Aquila and Priscilla and received a vision from the Lord saying, "I am with thee, and no man shall set on thee to hurt thee: for I have much people in this city". As Paul spoke, Crispus (chief ruler of the synagogue) and many others believed and were baptized, establishing the church at Corinth to whom Paul later wrote his two epistles. Discover the Archaeological Museum, Market Place and Temples. As you walk among the ruins, stand on the Bema, where the apostle Paul stood before Gallio to face charges brought against him by the Jews.

Meals:

Breakfast. Dinner.
Day 8
June 28 – Olympia, Greece

Transportation:

Bus

Events:

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. Shore excursions are not included today and can be purchased directly from Norwegian.

Meals:

Breakfast. Dinner.
Day 9
June 29 – Valletta, Malta

Transportation:

Bus

Events:

Embark on a narrated tour of Valletta, the capital of Malta, and a city replete with medieval charm and extravagantly grand architecture. No exploration would be complete without a visit to Valletta’s crowning jewel, St. John’s Co-Cathedral. This baroque masterpiece was commissioned in 1572 by Grand Master Jean de la Cassiere for the Knights of St John. In fact, several Knights donated gifts of art to ensure it was adorned with only the finest works. Continue to Casa Rocca Piccola, a historic home offering a unique glimpse into the lives of Maltese nobility over the past 400 years. Enjoy a little free time to explore the area before heading to the imposing Mediterranean Conference Center. Set overlooking the Grand Harbour, it was originally built as a hospital for the Order of St. John of Jerusalem and was considered one of the finest in Europe during the 1600s.

Meals:

Breakfast. Dinner.
Day 10
June 30 – Catania, Italy

Transportation:

Bus

Events:

The ancient port city of Catania is situated in the shadow of the famous active volcano, Mount Etna, which dominates the landscape and is intertwined with the town’s history. Steeped in a storied past, Catania’s squares, cathedrals and other historic sites are a must-visit on a guided tour, as are its open-air markets and friendly cafes that offer a taste of modern life in the region. You can also journey outside Catania to explore the surrounding lava fields and unique rock formations or hike, bike or go off-roading on one of the trails crisscrossing the volcano for an unforgettable outdoor adventure. Shore excursions are not included today and can be purchased directly from Norwegian.

Meals:

Breakfast. Dinner.
Day 11
July 1 – Salerno, Italy

Transportation:

Bus

Events:

The history of Salerno is as rich and vibrant as its surrounding landscapes. The site of ancient settlements (Neolithic mummy remains discovered here), Salerno has been home to vast empires and was the site of Medieval Europe’s first medical school. A trip to Salerno makes it easy to understand why countless people have been drawn to its location along the Gulf of Salerno. Nestled between the mountains and the sea at the southeastern point of the famed Amalfi Coast, Salerno boasts sun-drenched beaches, nature reserves and parks, historic sites and delicious local cuisine. Shore excursions are not included today and can be purchased directly from Norwegian.

Meals:

Breakfast. Dinner.
Day 12
July 2 – Rome, Italy

Transportation:

Bus

Events:

Disembark the Norwegian Viva this morning and journey to Rome. History is woven through the streets and neighborhoods of Rome as in no other city. Today you’ll explore the many wonders of ancient Rome when you visit the magnificent Colosseum and the Pantheon. From the most sacred hill of ancient Rome, Campidoglio, you will view the Forum. You will also view the Circus Maximus, the Arch of Titus, the famous Baths of Caracalla and the Arch of Constantine. You will see the Victor Emanuel Monument and the Monti Region, Rome’s most ancient neighborhood which spreads over three of her seven hills. Also, near the Forum is the Mamertine Prison. It was the site where Romans kept their high-profile prisoners until they died or were executed. It is revered as the place Peter was held before his crucifixion. Visit the Basilica of St. Paul’s Outside the Walls, housing the Tomb of St. Paul the Apostle, affectionately known as the Apostle of the Gentiles.

Meals:

Breakfast. Dinner.
Day 13
July 3 – Return Home

Transportation:

Bus, airplane

Events:

Return Home

Meals:

Breakfast.

Enhance Your Journey

Istanbul and Nicaea Extension Starting from $798

Day 11 – Istanbul
Begin your exploration of Istanbul with an enjoyable two-hour Bosporus Cruise. You will glide beneath some of the city’s famous bridges and sail past Istanbul’s more colorful neighborhoods and peaceful suburbs. Your boat will take you past castles and quaint fishing villages. As you watch Russian ships sail by, you will understand why the Turkish straits were considered the lock to the Czar’s backdoor. Later, you will visit the eastern or Asian part of Istanbul. You will see the Byzantine city walls, the Golden Horn, and the world-famous mosaics of the Kariye Church.

Day 12 – Nicaea
Today, you will visit the lakeside town of Iznik, known in Byzantine times as Nicaea and the site of two ecumenical church councils. The ancient name is associated with the Nicene Creed, which many Christians can recite from memory. You will see the ancient walls and sites related to the town’s Christian heritage: the ruins of the Basilica of St. Sophia, the Baptistry, and the Christian Tombs on the outskirts of town.

Day 13 – Return to the USA

Guests taking an extension may be on a different flight than their group and/or traveling companion.

Изучите локации

Istanbul

()

Ephesus

(2 дня)

Laodicea

(3 дня)

Istanbul

(2 дня)

1 день

Тель-Авив

Прибытие в Тель-Авив. Ужин. Отдых.

2 день

Тель-Авив-2

Кейсария. Хайфа. Гора Кармель. Долина Мегиддо. Гора осадков.

Леонардо Бич Отель*

San Fransico

2 день

1 день

Назарет

Назарет. Деревня Назарет. Храм Благовещения. Кесария Филиппова. Водопады. Тель Дан. Ворота Авраама.

2 день

Назарет-2

Кана Галилейская. Гора Блаженств. Табга. Капернаум. Обед. Прогулка на лодке по Галилейскому морю.

Золотая корона Старый город*

San Fransico

2 день

1 день

Иерусалим

Масличная гора. Панорама Старого города. Гефсиманский сад. Кедронская долина.

2 день

Иерусалим-2

Могила в саду - Вечеря Господня. Старый город. Виа Долороса. Стена Плача и туннель. Город Давида. Источник Силоам.

3 день

Иерусалим-3

Стена Езекии. Римская улица Кардо. Гора Сион. Верхняя комната. Гробница царя Давида. Музей Холокоста - Яд Вашем.

Отель "Святой Георгий" *

San Fransico

1 день

Мертвое море

Джордан. Иерихон. Гора Искушения. Масада.

2 день

Мертвое море-2

Вифлеем. Поле пастухов. Церковь Рождества Христова. Отдых на Мертвом море.

Дэвид Мертвое море*

San Fransico

Route Map

Departure Dates

Monday, June 21, 2027

From $5998

Enhance Your Journey

July 3 – Christian Rome
Experience the glory of Christian Rome today as you visit the Vatican, home to one of the most excellent museums in the world. Tour St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, home to Michelangelo's frescoes, now restored to their full,
colorful glory. Enjoy free time in Navona Square for lunch. In the afternoon, transfer to the hotel or stay in the city longer to walk to the Pantheon and the Trevi Fountain on your own. Enjoy a dinner out in Trastevere together this evening.

July 4 – Free day in Rome
Today is yours to enjoy at leisure as you explore the timeless beauty of Rome independently. Wander the charming streets of the vibrant Trastevere neighborhood, visit the stunning Villa Borghese gardens, or take a high-speed train journey to Florence for a day immersed in Renaissance art and culture.
Dinner will be on your own this evening.

July 5 – Return home

***Guests taking an extension may be on a different flight than their group and/or traveling companion.***

Not ready to book yet? Start with one message

Write to us in WhatsApp — we’ll reply within a few hours. Tell us how many people are traveling and when you’d like to go. We’ll send back a full custom quote with no pressure and no obligation.

Message us “TJ27V” — and we’ll take it from there.

The Seven Churches have waited 2,000 years. Your group doesn’t have to wait any longer

You’ve read Revelation. Now walk through it.
Custom dates. Your group. Your price. All year round.

From $3,899 per person · 3 flights included · More people = lower price

✦ GROUP OF 20+? We can extend your journey to 10–14 days, add exclusive destinations, and offer our best group pricing.

Mon–Fri 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM PST · info@favortraveltours.com · +1 (206) 452-0111

Starting From

$5,998.00_{/per person}

Support at every step of your journey
Your safety — our top priority

Travelers

You can book for a maximum number of people 30

Adult Person ( in a shared room)
Adult Person (in a single room)
Child

Group Tour

Rome & the First Century Church Cruise with Guest Speaker Amy Van Dyke | June 21, 2027

$17,994.00

13 Days Starting from $5998 Taxes & Fees Apply

$5,998.00 01 Adult$5,998.00 01 Adult-single-room$5,998.00 01 Children

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Rome & the First Century Church Cruise with Guest Speaker Amy Van Dyke | June 21, 2027

See where you're going before you go

This is not sightseeing. This is the Bible coming alive

When you return home, you will:

3 domestic flights — already included in your price

Accommodations

Meals

Transportation

Group Size

Language

Pets

Age Range

Season

Category

The more of you there are — the less each person pays

Your dates. Your pace. Your group.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

Everything is organized. You focus on the experience

Included in your tour price:

Not included (paid separately):

Tour Itinerary

Rome & the First Century Church Cruise with Guest Speaker Amy Van Dyke | June 21, 2027

Day 1

June 21 – Depart the USA

Transportation:

Events:

Day 2

June 22 – Arrive in Istanbul

Transportation:

Events:

Meals:

Day 3

June 23 – Istanbul, Turkiye

Transportation:

Events:

Meals:

Day 4

June 24 – Kusadasi, Turkiye

Transportation:

Events:

Meals:

Day 5

June 25 – Santorini, Greece

Transportation:

Events:

Meals:

Day 6

June 26 – Mykonos, Greece

Transportation:

Events:

Meals:

Day 7

June 27 – Athens, Greece

Transportation:

Events:

Meals:

Day 8

June 28 – Olympia, Greece

Transportation:

Events:

Meals:

Day 9

June 29 – Valletta, Malta

Transportation:

Events:

Meals:

Day 10

June 30 – Catania, Italy

Transportation:

Events:

Meals:

Day 11

July 1 – Salerno, Italy

Transportation:

Events:

Meals:

Day 12

July 2 – Rome, Italy

Transportation:

Events: