Magical Greek Cyclades Small Ship Cruise

After arriving into Athens International Airport, you’ll be met by your private driver for transfer to Marina Keas. If you arrive early, you can take private transfer from your hotel to your ship. Embarkation is anytime from 2 to 3pm. You’ll be given a welcome drink and introduced to your fellow passengers and cruise before we set sail. Get settled into your spacious cabin and look forward to sailing as we depart for Poros. You’ll have several hours to enjoy its gorgeous beaches before returning to the shop. We’ll continue toward Polyaigos, spending the night out on the sea.

This morning we anchor at the “Island of Goats,” Polyaigos, the Aegean’s largest uninhabited island. It’s stunningly beautiful, with rich flora and fauna along with unspoiled beaches edged by crystal-clear emerald waters. Enjoy swimming here followed by a tasty BBQ feast back onboard as well cruise on to Folegandros. It’s characterized by old wooden windmills, elegant Cycladic architecture, and hills are goats are scattered about. You’ll notice a bohemian character and peaceful atmosphere with vehicles banned. Explore the Upper City of Folegandros Town, overlooked by a medieval fortress and then find one of the fabulous traditional Greek tavernas for dinner.

Our next destination is one many have dreamed of visiting, Santorini. Arriving in the morning, you’ll have lots of time to explore. Disembark in the unique capital city of Fira, where you’ll see its cluster of white homes nestled in the cliffs. It’s home to any great museums, including an archaeological museum that exhibits findings from an ancient cemetery like vases, ceramics and sculptures or the Museum of Prehistoric Thera which features findings excavated from the  famous Akrotiri archaeological site. An optional tour to Akrotiri, preserved over centuries in volcanic ash, and the village of Oia is possible too.

Cruising on toward Antiparos we’ll make a swim stop in one of its secluded bays. Around noon we reach Paros, known for its scenic landscapes from sandy beaches and aquamarine waters to lush valleys and rolling hills. We’ll visit the main port of Parikia, which has an enticing labyrinth of marble streets and Cycladic cube-shaped homes with those quintessential blue shutters and doors. We’ll explore Naoussa village too, renowned for its vineyards. Heading back to the ship, an exciting evening awaits with our famous Greek Night hosted – you can even show off your dancing skills if you’re in the mood.

Our destination this evening is Mykonos, but we’ll stop on the tiny, ancient island of Delos. A sacred island and UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s filled with captivating ruins, most dating from the 5^th and 4^th centuries BC. You’ll have the option to join a tour to explore them, including temples and a theater. After we’re back onboard, we’ll sail toward nearby Mykonos, making a stop along the way so that you can swim in one of the island’s secluded bays. After we anchor for the night, you’ll have the rest of the day at your leisure to explore Mykonos Town and the island.

Leaving a little later this morning, you’ll have time for another swim in Mykonos. Back onboard, we will continue to Syros, the capital of the Cyclades. It’s known for its many sandy and pebbly beaches, so you might want to spend some time enjoying them before discovering the town, which boasts some incredible architectural treasures. While strolling through the enticing streets, enjoy gems like Miaouli Square lined with neoclassical buildings. Syros is also home to many local tavernas, find one of dinner and drinks this evening – we recommend sampling the mouth-watering traditional dishes created with island-grown herbs and veggies.

The last island on our Cyclades adventure is the mountainous island of Kythnos, a nature lovers’ delight. We’ll stop for a swim in Kolones Bay with its clear cobalt waters. Afterward, we begin to sail back to Marina Keas, but we’ll be making a stop at Cape Sounion first. It’s known for its nearly 200-foot-high Temple of Poseidon which overlooks the Aegeanm providing some of the most outstanding photo-ops. You’ll have time to snap your shots before we continue to Marina Keas. Upon arrival, you may want to relax with your fellow shipmates, exchanging photos and contact information with those who’ve become new friends.

After our amazing week at sea, winding through the beautiful Cyclades, departure day has arrived. Be sure your bags are packed and ready and you’ll disembark shortly after breakfast. You’ll be met by your private driver for transfer to Athens International Airport or your Athens’ hotel.