I wasn't aware of that charge - but why not just make your own plans. There is a company? "Travel with Friends" that has contacts all over the world and will coordinate it all. The contact is through California so you can contact them by Email or phone. They have scheduledour portstops in the Med for our May 19th cruise with the exception of Epesus which I went with Emek Evyn who was so highlily recommended on this site. You can go with the drive/ guide ortwo persons. Good Luck and the private tour is the way to go in my book. Bon Voyage, Jan