Great Cities of the Bible:
An 11-Day Cruise Aboard the Magnificent Oosterdam
A Journey Through the Great Cities of the Bible from Exodus to the Early Church
Led by Dr. Jonathan Moore, Adjunct Faculty, Freed-Hardeman University.
October 3-14, 2026















Embark on a transformative 11-day journey through the cradle of civilization aboard Holland America's luxurious Oosterdam. Led by Dr. Jonathan Moore, Adjunct Faculty at Freed-Hardeman University, this voyage offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the lands of the Bible, tracing the footsteps of apostles and prophets.
From the ancient wonders of Athens and the majestic Pyramids of Giza to the sacred sites of Jerusalem and the early Christian communities in Ephesus, each destination is steeped in history and spiritual significance. Enhance your experience with optional excursions, including a pre-cruise stay in Athens, an immersive tour of Egypt's iconic landmarks, and a comprehensive exploration of Israel's holy sites.
Throughout the cruise, Dr. Moore will provide insightful lectures, enriching your understanding of the historical, archaeological and biblical contexts of each location. This journey is more than a vacation; it's a pilgrimage that will deepen your faith and broaden your perspective.
highlights of all excursions
Pre-Cruise Athens Hotel & City Tour with Transfer to Cruise Ship
Begin your journey in historic Athens, the cradle of Western civilization and gateway to Paul’s mission to the Gentiles. This optional pre-cruise package includes a comfortable hotel stay in the heart of the city, an evening orientation tour with Dr Moore on Mars Hill, and a full day exploring the wonders of Ancient Greece. Stand atop the Acropolis near the majestic Parthenon, gaze across the city from Mars Hill where Paul preached to the philosophers, and stroll the paths of the Agora, where ancient ideas once shaped the world. Your experience concludes with a smooth, included transfer to board the elegant Holland America Oosterdam.
***It is highly recommended that you arrive 1 day ahead of our cruise departure date in the event you have flight interruptions.
Highlights of FULL DAY Egypt Tour (Cairo/Great Pyramids of Giza)
Visit one of the most awe-inspiring sites of the ancient world—the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Step Pyramid at Saqqara, and the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization. Come face-to-face with the mummies of Amenhotep II (widely believed to be the Pharaoh of the Exodus), Hatshepsut (the possible Daughter of Pharaoh who drew Moses from the Nile), and Ramses the Great. This unforgettable excursion places you in the heart of biblical-era Egypt and connects Scripture to history in a powerful way. See Egypt like you’ve never imaged with Dr. Moore guiding you on a journey that will connect the Bible and the history of Egypt in a powerful way.
Two-Day Israel Experience with Overnight in Jerusalem –
Immerse yourself in the land of the Bible with two full days of touring Israel—beginning with ancient Caesarea Maritima, where Paul defended his faith before governors and kings. From there, journey to Jerusalem, visiting sacred sites like the Mount of Olives, Gethsemane, City of David, Hezekiah’s Tunnel, and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. With Dr. Moore as your guide, visit the places that changed the world forever and walk in the footsteps of David and his descendent Jesus both in Galilee and in Jerusalem.
Day two takes you north through the Galilee, where you’ll enjoy a serene boat ride, visit Capernaum (the base of Jesus’ ministry), and explore Magdala, the hometown of Mary Magdalene. Travel through Nazareth and the Jezreel Valley, returning to the ship with your faith refreshed and your Bible forever transformed by what you've seen.
Cyprus (Tour Paphos of Acts 13) –
Explore the beautiful island of Cyprus, where Barnabas was born and where Paul and Barnabas began their first missionary journey (Acts 13). Choose to wander the vibrant port of Limassol or join us for a journey to Paphos, a city rich in biblical and archaeological heritage. In Paphos, see the location where Paul confronted the false prophet Bar-Jesus (Elymas) and where Sergius Paulus, the Roman proconsul, became one of the first Gentile believers. Walk among ancient Roman villas, theaters, and stunning mosaics that bring the New Testament world to life.
Ephesus Full-Day Tour with Terrace Houses & Temple of Artemis – (includes private transportation)
Discover Ephesus, one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman cities in the world and a major hub of Paul’s ministry. Walk its marble streets, visit the grand Library of Celsus, the Great Theater (where a riot once broke out over Paul’s teaching), and tour the luxurious Terrace Houses, showcasing elite Roman living. Conclude your visit at the remnants of the Temple of Artemis, once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Enjoy this amazing day with our local guide along with Dr. Moore helping to connect the archeology of Ephesus to the Bible in powerful ways.
Antalya (Ancient Attalia) Tour – Port of Paul’s First Missionary Journey –
Step into the stunning coastal city of Antalya, known in the New Testament as Attalia (Acts 14:25), the departure point of Paul’s first missionary journey into Galatia. This picturesque port city blends ancient harbors, Roman fortifications, and Mediterranean charm. It is also the site of Paul’s disagreement with John Mark, marking a pivotal moment in early church history. Enjoy the scenic old town, panoramic sea views, and layers of biblical and historical meaning.
Rhodes, Greece – 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Rhodes, the largest of Greece’s Dodecanese islands, is a captivating mix of natural beauty and rich history. Its medieval Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the island is also mentioned in the Bible—visited by the Apostle Paul during his journey to Jerusalem (Acts 21:1). Just a scenic drive from the port lies Lindos, a stunning whitewashed village nestled beneath a dramatic cliff. Towering above is the Acropolis of Lindos, home to the ancient Temple of Athena Lindia, dating back to around 300 BC. From the top, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea and the surrounding coastline. Below the acropolis, we will visit St. Paul’s Bay, a serene, horseshoe-shaped cove where, according to tradition, the Apostle Paul sought refuge during a storm. It remains a place of peaceful beauty and spiritual reflection.
3 Marvelous Days at Sea: Fellowship, Relaxation & Enrichment
Enjoy three peaceful days aboard the Holland America Oosterdam, where you can relax, take in a show, or fellowship with fellow travelers. Each sea day will feature engaging morning lectures by Dr. Jonathan Moore, highlighting the geography, archaeology, and historical accuracy of the sites you’ve explored—and previewing what’s ahead. These sessions are designed to deepen your understanding of the Bible and reaffirm the trustworthiness of Scripture through what your eyes have seen and your heart has felt.
cruise itinerary
Day 1: Piraeus (Athens), Greece – Embarkation at 5:00 PM
Begin your spiritual journey from the historic port of Piraeus, gateway to Athens—the intellectual capital of the ancient world. Here, the Apostle Paul preached at Mars Hill and challenged the philosophers of his day. Settle aboard the luxurious Oosterdam and prepare to cruise through Scripture with Dr. Moore leading the way.
Day 2: At Sea
Enjoy a luxurious day at sea to relax, explore the ship, and prepare your heart. Start the morning with an engaging lecture and devotional led by Dr. Moore, setting the stage for the spiritual and archaeological insights to come. Enjoy fellowship with fellow believers in an inspiring maritime setting.
Day 3: Alexandria, Egypt – 7:00 AM to 11:59 PM
Travel inland to Cairo for an unforgettable day of discovery. Led by Dr. Moore, this full-day tour will take you to the awe-inspiring Great Pyramids of Giza, the Step Pyramid of Saqqara, and the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, where you'll encounter the mummies of Amenhotep II, Hatshepsut, and Ramses the Great—biblically significant figures tied to the story of the Exodus.
Day 4: At Sea
Spend a reflective day at sea, enjoying the amenities of the Oosterdam. Begin your day with another enriching Bible-focused lecture and devotional by Dr. Moore. This is a time to rest, learn, and connect as you journey toward the Holy Land.
Day 5: Haifa (Tel Aviv), Israel – Arrive at 8:00 AM
Disembark for a deeply immersive experience in Israel. Visit Caesarea Maritima, where Paul defended the faith before Roman rulers. Travel on to Jerusalem, where Dr. Moore will guide you through key Christian sites such as the Mount of Olives, Gethsemane, the City of David, Hezekiah’s Tunnel, the Southern Steps, and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Overnight in Jerusalem.
Day 6: Haifa (Tel Aviv), Israel – Depart at 9:00 PM
Continue your biblical journey northward to the Sea of Galilee, where you’ll experience a peaceful boat ride, visit Capernaum, and stop at Magdala and Nazareth. Walk where Jesus walked and feel the power of the Gospel as it came alive in these sacred regions. Return to Haifa and reboard the ship.
Day 7: Limassol, Cyprus – 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Dock at Limassol, and visit ancient Paphos, where Paul and Barnabas began their first missionary journey (Acts 13). Explore key biblical and archaeological sites, including the place where Sergius Paulus believed and Elymas the sorcerer was struck blind—an event marking the Gospel’s expansion to the Gentiles.
Day 8: Antalya, Turkey – 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Visit Antalya, once known as Attalia (Acts 14:25), the final stop of Paul and Barnabas’s first missionary journey. Stroll through the Roman harbor and enjoy views of ancient city walls. Dr. Moore will connect this scenic location with Paul’s ministry and the early church’s growth in Asia Minor.
Day 9: Rhodes, Greece – 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Explore the island of Rhodes, a place of rich Christian history and medieval beauty. Walk its stone streets, view Crusader-era fortresses, and imagine early believers who once found refuge and passage here. Enjoy time to explore both ancient ruins and the charming Old Town.
Day 10: At Sea
Enjoy a final day at sea to unwind and reflect. The morning features a concluding lecture by Dr. Moore, drawing together the spiritual and archaeological insights from your journey. Fellowship and devotion will highlight the faith-building themes that have emerged across the cities of the Bible.
Day 11: Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey – 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Arrive at Ephesus, one of the crown jewels of New Testament archaeology. Tour the Great Theater, Library of Celsus, Terrace Houses, and the site of the Temple of Artemis—a former Wonder of the Ancient World. Stand where Paul preached boldly and where the church was challenged to remain faithful in a pagan world.
Day 12: Piraeus (Athens), Greece – Arrive at 7:00 AM
Return to Athens, where your extraordinary journey comes full circle. Disembark with renewed faith, expanded understanding, and memories that will anchor your study of Scripture for years to come.
pricing
Holland America Cruise Pricing:
Call for best current pricing. Pricing depends on availability and cabin type (inside, ocean view, or balcony). Call Adventure Travel for all current pricing and promotions. Aventure Travel guarantees the best pricing available through Holland America.
Total Price for ALL Excursions and Pre-Cruise Athens Tour: $1,700 per person
Total Price for ALL Excursions WITHOUT Pre-Cruise Athens Tour: $1,400 per person
Registration
Cruise Registration:
For the best pricing on the Holland America cruise, call Adventure Travel now!
To reserve your spot, please contact Dede Carver at Adventure Therapy Travel by calling 865-769-5665 or emailing dede@adventuretherapytravel.com. Dede will assist you with all the details and ensure your booking is correctly linked to our Seeing His World group.
Excursion Registration:
To register for the full Seeing His World Excursion Package- which includes all excursions as described above, transportation, a Galilee boat ride, a hotel night in Jerusalem, and full days of guided touring with entry tickets in Cairo, Ephesus, Antalya, Rhodes, Cyprus, Jerusalem, the Galilee, and various museums and biblical sites- please email or call Kim Moore for more information and to complete your registration.
Please note:
Booking through Adventure Therapy Travel is required to participate in the Seeing His World trip. This guarantees the lowest available rate currently offered by Holland America. There is no upcharge or added fee for booking through our group—only the best pricing available. Independent cruise bookings cannot be accommodated for participation in this trip.
All Seeing His World excursion packages are priced to offer better value than comparable excursions through Holland America.
Purchasing the cruise alone without the excursion package does not include access to Seeing His World excursions, group activities, or onboard educational experiences.
Excursions Guided By:
dr. jonathan moore
Dr. Jonathan Moore is a full-time physician with Master’s degrees in Education and Bible as well as a Ph.D. in Biblical Studies and Archaeology. Founder of ‘Seeing the World Through His Eyes,’ Moore has traveled extensively all over the world including Israel, Egypt, Turkey, Italy and throughout the Mediterranean. Moore is an adjunct professor at Freed Hardeman University Graduate School of Theology. Jonathan and his wife Kim have three children and three grandchildren.