Science Without Borders: The Greek Islands and Beyond

Tentative Dates: June 14-27, 2024

Class: BIO 210 (prerequisite or corequisite BIO 108, BIO 118, BIO 145, BIO 151, or instructor's permission)
Price: $4680

Discover the ecological and cultural diversity of Greece on this instructor-led study abroad course in the spring. Then, in the summer visit several Greek islands such as Mykonos, Santorini, Crete, and Evia, as well as mainland Athens, for an unconventional, authentic, and refreshing approach to learning. Snorkel in the Mediterranean Sea, and hike the mountainous chaparral terrain, exploring both terrestrial and marine habitats. Enjoy native cuisine and visit various historic sites and museums. 

The Price Includes

  • Accommodations 
  • Scheduled group activities on this itinerary
  • Round-trip airfare
  • All airport taxes, security fees and fuel surcharges
  • Breakfast

The Price Does Not Include

  • Transportation to/from JFK
  • Meals that are not listed on the itinerary
  • Additional increases in taxes and fuel surcharges at the time of ticketing
  • Additional activities or optional trips
  • Personal expenses such as Wi-fi, phone, and souvenirs
  • Exceeding the airline's baggage allowance

Click to View Itinerary

  • June 14: Depart from JFK early in the day.
  • June 15: Arrive in Athens in the morning and fly to the island of Crete. 
  • June 16: Heraklion city walking tour to the covered bazaar, city walls, churches and Heraklion. Minoan Palace of Knossos aka Palace of King Midas.
  • June 17: Attend a biology lecture at the University of Crete. Tour and lectures from Marine Ecology Laboratory; then to CretAquarium Tour; Hellenic Center for Marine Research (HCMR). Afternoon free time at the beach.
  • June 18: Take a  ferry to the Greek Island of Thira (“Santorini”). On this famous blue roofed island, you’ll explore the famous ancient volcanic archaeological site of Akrotiri. Enjoy the sunset by the beach. 
  • June 19: Ferry to the famous island of Mykonos. Explore on your own.
  • June 20: Depart to Rafina and then take an afternoon ferry. Depart in the afternoon for the island of Evia. 
  • June 21: Walking tour of Karystos, where you’ll visit the major parts such as the bakeries, fish market, St.Nikolas Church, Bourtzi Fortress, fishing boats, beaches, and Karystos Museum. Afternoon: BIO Snorkeling Survey of “Mantili island - Geraistos ancient port” or “Petali Islands”.
  • June 22: Dimosaris Gorge Hike (9 a.m.-5 p.m.) 
  • June 23: Hike to Drakospito (ancient ruins) from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Bring your own lunch for a picnic at the top of the mountain. In the afternoon, taste local wine, bread, and cheese.  Hike Castello Rosso for sunset views.
  • June 24: BIO Excursion to Platanistos hills (Rema waterfall & Potami Beach)  (8 a.m.-6 p.m.) 
  • June 25: Explore Evia on your last day.
  • June 26: Depart on a ferry to Athens. Guided tour to Acropolis and museum.  Tour Athens’s sites, such as the Monostiraki marketplace, Acropolis Museum, and the Anafiotika neighborhood (island architecture in the middle of Athens)
  • June 27: Depart for the US. Arrive at JFK in the evening.

How to Apply

Directions for applying online:  

  1.  Log in to the portal
  2.  View our Study Abroad Application Process
  3.  Follow the St. Joseph's Faculty-led Programs Checklist.

 

Passport Requirements

Due to new government regulations, passport information must be provided with your final payment. If you need a new passport, apply immediately.

Without passport information tickets cannot be issued and delays with ticketing may create penalties and/or cancellations without a refund.

A copy of your passport is due no later than January 22, 2024.