I am on an odyssey, a small ship Ionian Sea cruise, through an ancient world with so many layers of history it almost overwhelms the senses. On a vessel so modern and intimate, you feel like you are cruising on your own private yacht. My ship, the Emerald Azzurra, was purpose-built in 2022 for such immersive adventures. This is not your typical cruise ship. The vessel is only 110 metres in length, with six passenger decks and 50 cabins. With a maximum of 100 passengers onboard, it is a vessel so friendly, cozy and practical that you can slip quietly and seamlessly into each port and not overwhelm them like an invading army.