Talk to the Expert

Muno Pic

Although I was born in Zambia, raised in Zimbabwe (two land-locked countries), I am very passionate about travel on the sea. I’ve cruised extensively on luxury small ships and ocean liners around the world – I look forward to sharing my experiences with you

Muno

Cruise Specialist

+1 844 879 7838

Overview

  • from $5,752 PP
  • 11 Nights
  • Max 50 Passengers on cruise
  • May - Sep
  • Easy
  • 3hrs from London / 11hrs from NYC

Highlights

Offering an idyllic mix of land tours and cruising, the 12-Day Signature Cruise Tour will bring you to some of the most popular attractions on the mainland and 10 different islands, including the classics and some less-visited gems. You’ll start with a private tour of the iconic Acropolis and Acropolis Museum before sailing the sapphire Aegean, enjoying optional excursions led by expert guides, many memorable swim stops, and a wide range of delicious cuisine on the ship and off. You’ll be able to sample authentic eats in local ports and take advantage of a wealth of luxurious facilities, from a Jacuzzi to pampering spa services.

Why Book with Us

  • Low Deposit To Book

    Book your trip with us and pay a reduced deposit with the rest 90 days before your departure

  • 24/7 Support

    From the moment you book your trip, our team is on hand 24/7 to assist you throughout your journey.

  • ATOL & ABTOT Protected

    Your trip with us is fully financially protected by our travel insurers. Peace of mind guaranteed.

  • Intuitive Travel App

    One central place to access all of your travel documents and guides without the need for WiFi.

What's Included

Elysium Sun Deck

At a Glance

  • 12-day tour including an 8-day cruise
  • 3 nights 4-star accommodation in Athens and 1 night hotel stay in Kalambaka near Meteora
  • Private guided tour of the Acropolis and Acropolis Museum
  • Overnight tour visiting Thermopylae and Meteora
  • Discover the ancient Peloponnese coast on board a spacious 200ft yacht
  • Enjoy this intimate cruise experience with up to 48 like-minded guests
  • Visit a myriad of magnificent UNESCO listed sites and wonders
  • Visit off the beaten destinations such Monemvasia, Ithaca, Itea and Pavlopetri
  • Sample delicious local Greek cuisine both on board the yacht and at your leisure in local restaurants whilst on shore in the evenings
  • Explore ancient gems like the impressive Delphi and Olympia
  • Take refreshing swims off the boat and at impressive swim stops like Navagio/Shipwreck Beach
  • Relax on board the boats expansive sundeck and on board Jacuzzi
  • Enjoy ultimate relaxation at the boats on board Gemaya spa with a range of spa treatment options

Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1 Athens Arrival

Athens, Greece

Welcome to Athens International Airport. You’ll be met by our driver who will welcome you and provide a private transfer to your high-end hotel that will put you within an easy walk of the Acropolis while being just steps from many upscale shops. Take time to settle in and then perhaps pick up some gifts, souvenirs, or items you might need for the trip. You might fuel up with strong Greek coffee or relax with a glass of wine at a sidewalk café, immersing yourself in the world of Athens. Rooftop bars are another option for cocktails and more while watching the sun go down.

    Day 2 Athens Tour & Embarkation, Port of Lavrio to Hydra

    Hydra, Greece

    A private half-day guided tour brings you to some of the most iconic landmarks in Athens. You’ll visit Acropolis hill, topped by the Parthenon and multiple other monuments that have stood here overlooking the city for over 2,500 years. Your expert guide will reveal the storied past behind them before a visit to the Acropolis Museum at its base. It showcases many archaeological treasures uncovered from the hill and a see-through floor for peering down at some remarkable ruins. Transfer to your ship in the port of Lavrio afterward, enjoying a signature cocktail at check-in with departure soon underway to Hydra Island where we’ll overnight.

      Day 3 Monemvasia

      Monemvasia, Greece

      Sailing toward the Peloponnese, enjoy the first swim stop followed by lunch on board as we cruise to Monemvasia, a unique walled castle town founded by the Byzantines in the 6th century, built on a huge rock that rises from the brilliant blue sea. After stepping into the mystical stone-built settlement, immerse yourself in its medieval atmosphere with cobbled streets lined with historic mansions that are now home to shops, eateries, and boutique hotels. An optional tour can bring you to one of the country’s oldest Byzantine churches, 12th-century Hagia Sofia, which stands at the town’s highest point providing dramatic views of the sea.

        Day 4 Pavlopetri: Snorkeling, Diving & NATURA Beach

        Pavlopetri sunkern settlement, Greece

        Arriving early on the southern coast of Lavonia, soon you’ll be visiting the world’s underwater city, Pavlopetri. Dating to Minoan times, over 5,000 years ago, at this UNESCO World Heritage Site you can even dive or snorkel here to experience a slice of the entire world’s cultural heritage. Just across the water is little Elafonisos Island with its brilliant aquamarine waters and sand dunes. You can jump from the ship and swim to the shore or hitch a ride on one of our tender boats. Once everyone is back on board, we’ll continue cruising to Katakolon while you enjoy lunch and dinner on the ship.

          Day 5 Ancient Olympia & Zakynthos

          Ancient Olympia, Greece

          We’ll reach Katakolon’s port early, allowing for a visit to ancient Olympia. An optional excursion reveals the fascinating archaeological site where the Olympic Games first took place and the museum that showcases the finds here. Using the sun’s rays just like they did centuries ago, the Olympic flame is still lit here today in the Temple of Hera. From here, we’ll cruise on to Zakynthos, with a number of activity options along the way, including a horse ride, the exploration of authentic villages, or a swim stop at Vasilikos beach. Enjoy time to visit Zante Town before dinner on the ship this evening.

            Day 6 Navagio/Shipwreck Beach to Ithaca

            Navagio Beach

            A highlight on the agenda today, we’ll visit Navagio Beach, more often referred to as Shipwreck Beach due to the rusted bones of a vessel that lie on its white sands, framed by precipitous cliffs and edged by an electric blue sea. You can hop into a tender to reach the beach or swim from the ship to enjoy a dip in the enticing water. We’ll sail on to the mythical island of Odysseus, Ithaca, while you enjoy lunch. Upon arrival, you’ll have time to soak up its many charms, including traditional Ionian architecture with museums, boutiques, taverns, restaurants, and cafes.

              Day 7 Gidaki & Overnight to Itea

              Gidaki Beach, Greece

              Today’s excursions will allow you to delve deeper into the island’s history and spectacular beauty. You might choose to discover the findings from northern Ithaca and the surrounding Stavros region or visit the tranquil Kathara Monastery set high on a mountain providing breathtaking views from above. Once back on board the ship we’ll head to remote Gidaki beach. It can only be reached by boat and is widely regarded as one of the most stunning in the Ioanians, with clear water in a brilliant shade of turquoise. Enjoy dinner as we continue to our next destination with an overnight sail to Itea.

                Day 8 Delphi & Galaxidi

                Itea is our gateway for exploring Delphi which sits at the base of Parnassus. You’ll have the option to tour this ancient sanctuary dedicated to Apollo, with your guide revealing interesting insights into its history as you explore the site. Our final visit is to Galaxidi, known for its rich maritime history, boasting picturesque old captains’ mansions, pretty ports, and neoclassical homes. After enjoying a stroll on the waterfront promenade or through the colorful streets with lots of bougainvilleas, head back on board to enjoy a cocktail during our crossing of the Corinth Canal followed by the Farewell Dinner with live entertainment.

                  Day 9 Disembarkation, Port of Lavrio. To Thermopylae & Meteora

                  Thermopylae, Greece

                  This morning we reach the port where it all began with the cruise portion of your journey coming to an end. Enjoy time for goodbyes to new friends made, the captain and crew with disembarkation by 10 am. From here, begin a 2-day journey that will take you to Meteora. A stop will be made at Thermopylae, where King Leonidas and 300 brave Spartans heroically faced the Persian forces. Upon arrival to Meteora, join a sunset tour of one of the monasteries and visit the Byzantine Church of the Virgin Mary before driving to a high perch for a glorious sunset view.

                    Day 10 Tour of Meteora. Back to Athens

                    Meteora, Greece

                    Spend the entire morning exploring Meteora which sits atop a pair of dramatic, nearly sheer vertical peaks. You’ll have the option to tour via a moderately challenging hike or by car. While both of these provide outstanding vantage points for viewing if you can make it on foot, the vistas are truly extraordinary. Either way, you’ll step into the Dark Ages, an era when monks and hermits lived in these isolated retreats. Afterward, a four-to-five-hour drive will bring you to your hotel in Athens, with arrival in the late afternoon. After checking in, the remainder of the day is yours.

                      Day 11 Athens Free Day

                      Athens, Greece

                      You’ll have the entire day to explore Athens on your own. Some suggestions include a visit to the National Archaeological Museum, the largest of its kind in the country with more than 11,000 exhibits providing a comprehensive overview of civilization here from prehistory through late antiquity. Don’t miss the Antikythira Device, a 2,000-year-old computer. Other ideas include strolling through the National Garden of Athens and heading to the top of Mount Lycabettus via the funicular train for a commanding view from nearly 750 feet above the city. If you haven’t already, this is a good time to pick up souvenirs too.

                        Day 12 Athens Departure

                        Athens

                        With the twelfth day here, it’s time to get your bags packed and ready as our driver will meet you at your hotel for a private transfer to Athens International Airport. Catch a flight to return home or head out on further travels, with many alluring destinations easily reached. Otherwise, we wish you a safe journey wherever you’re headed and hope to see you again on another exciting trip.

                          • Cruise arriving in Mykonos

                            Want to extend your trip?

                            If you are looking to extend your stay in Greece or equally visit another European destination on your trip, then please speak to our travel experts as we can create you a bespoke itinerary to suit your needs.

                          Our Cruise Ships

                          Elysium Ship Image

                          Elysium

                          The Elysium is a boutique cruise ship providing a more intimate experience for up to just 48 passengers who enjoy a modern, superyacht experience. One of only a few of its kind in the world today, she includes a wide range of facilities for her relatively small size, including a bubbling Jacuzzi for relaxing while surrounded by the magnificent sea and island scenery.

                          What's Included

                          • Private guided tour of the Acropolis and Acropolis Museum
                          • Overnight tour visiting Thermopylae and Meteora
                          • Private transfers to and from the vessel
                          • Daily buffet breakfast and lunch on the cruise
                          • Room service without charge
                          • Access to the on board gym
                          • Spacious en-suite and air-conditioned cabin with luxury amenities
                          • Three course welcome dinner
                          • Filtered water throughout the cruise
                          • Pilates & Yoga sessions with on board Wellness Coach
                          • Complimentary use of snorkelling equipment and all water sports
                          • Beach Towels
                          • Excellent English-speaking crew with a crew to client ratio of 1 to 2
                          • Greek style BBQ Farewell dinner
                          • Complimentary tea, coffee and biscuits on the cruise
                          • Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout
                          • Multilingual Cruise Concierge
                          • Very intuitive travel app with our sought after Restaurant Guide
                          • Full financial trip protection for your guaranteed peace of mind

                          What's not Included

                          • Return flights to Greece
                          • Spa treatments at the Gemaya Spa
                          • Gratuities for the crew
                          • Any meals or beverages not listed above
                          • Water ski & scuba diving (available on request)
                          • Optional daily shore excursions
                          • Laundry service (available on request)
                          • Port taxes of €270 per person
                          • We strongly advise all guests purchase comprehensive travel insurance
                          • Price based in double occupancy in a double or twin room. 70% single person supplement

                          Departure Dates

                          Please select your year of departure.

                          2023

                          • April

                            Apr 28, 2023
                          • May

                            May 19, 2023
                          • June

                            Jun 09, 2023Jun 30, 2023
                          • July

                            Jul 21, 2023
                          • August

                            Aug 11, 2023
                          • September

                            Sep 29, 2023

                          Let’s get started making this itinerary yours.

                          Speak to experienced Destinations Experts about designing this itinerary around your budget and trip preferences

                          Why book with Unforgettable Travel Co.

                          • 100% Financial Protection

                            We are a licensed and fully bonded tour operator financially protected by both the Civil Aviation Authority (ATOL) and the Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust (ABTOT). All clients that travel with us are fully financially protected.

                          • Destination Experts

                            Our travel experts live and breathe the destinations they specialise in. This shows in their passionate to create hand crafted trips for our clients. We don’t offer cookie cutter trips, just truly unforgettable journeys unlike any other.

                          • The Best Guides

                            What makes our trips extraordinary is the unique immersive experiences we include. We pride ourselves in our black book of sought after expert guides, game rangers and local contacts who believe in our philosophy, unforgettable.

                          • We Care

                            From the moment you book your trip, we are on hand 24/7 to assist you throughout your journey. With regional offices around the world, we have ground logistics teams on hand to help you every step of the way.