Greek Islands Sailing Adventure (Santorini to Mykonos)

Trip Itinerary

• Day 1 Santorini

  Arrive at any time. Please try to arrive at the meeting point before 5pm for an important group meeting where you can meet the Chief Experience Officer (CEO) skipper and the other group members. Still shaky Santorini needs no introduction, being a 1 million year old volcano that remains in active/dormant state until today. Its breathtaking beauty both historically and geologically are awe inspiring making it one of life’s true highlights. The island was home to a Minoan settlement that was obliterated by an eruption around 1650BC which sent tsunamis through the eastern Mediterranean. The colossal eruption displaced 30 cubic kilometres of earth jetting a cloud of ash 36 km into the sky creating the foundation of what we see today. Centrally located in the 300 metre deep 5 -mile wide crescent moon shaped caldera harbour are two new cones, Neas Palaias & Kammenis. The shape of the crater ring has constantly changed over the last 3000 years with several parts of the crater wall collapsing into the sea. Remarkably, the island has always been resettled due to the rich volcanic soil's fertile properties. The wines, tomatoes and cucumbers from this island are super tasty due to the soil composition and low rainfall. Visitors can make their way from sea level to the crater rim either by bus, gondola or even a donkey ride. Fira, the main town, sits perched on the edge of the caldera with breathtaking views of multi-coloured cliffs, sugar-cube architecture and great local markets for shopping.

• Day 2-6 Southern Cyclades

  Possible island stops include: Folegandros, Sifnos, Ios, Antiparos, Paros, Naxos CYCLADES ISLANDS Located in the central and southern part of the Aegean Sea, there are 39 islands in the Cyclades of which 24 are inhabited. On these small islands where the past meets the present, one can find both peace and tranquility and colourful nightlife. The white heat of July and August is often relieved by the meltemi, a strong northerly wind that sweeps across the eastern coast of mainland Greece and the Cyclades. Narrow paths full of flowers, whitewashed houses, blue windows and white churches under the dazzling sun and complimented by golden beaches: this is one of those magical places where the reality outstrips the postcards. FOLEGANDROS One of the must see islands in the Cyclades, famous for one of the most breathtaking cities around, Hora. The capital town, located up in the hills, boasts a traffic-free main street with plenty of green spaces to explore. A great island for hiking and snorkelling opportunities. Photographers will love the classic whitewashed houses decorated with colourful bougainvillea. SIFNOS An ideal island for walking, head for the trails and admire the views of olive groves and wild juniper. The island hosts a number of small, locally-owned and operated ceramic workshops, some of which are open to the public. It's well worth it to take something unique and authentic home with you. IOS Port Ios is situated at the far end of the excellently sheltered Ormos Iou on Ios’ western side. Its very pretty, and the town port is in fine condition with considerable space. Take the enjoyable 25 minute walk to the old town of Charos at the top of the hill. Other options include visiting Homer's tomb or relaxing on the famous south-side beach, Magganari. ANTIPAROS Antiparos Town lies at the westernmost end of the narrow straight between Antiparos and Paros. Hop on one of the hourly buses to the large cave deep inside the island, which is an excellent optional activity and easily reached by bus. The cave is fully fitted with staircases to the bottom, which is a 100m vertical drop. The stalagmites and stalactites are really visually striking. PAROS Livadhi is a small town on the east coast of Paros, easily accessible from the channel between Paros and Naxos. It's quaint, and provides a respite from other busier ports in the region. Sample the local cuisine at one of the various tavernas commanding superb views over the strait between these two large islands. Naousa lies centrally at the base of its very large bay on the north east end of Paros. It’s another idyllic island town, with a historical port, featuring Venetian ruins. NAXOS Naxos town is a pretty, typical Greek Island town offering the usual charm. Visit the monument to Apollonius (Bacchus) situated on the headland as you approach the port from the NE. The monument was started in 530BC, but strangely never completed. The town also has a Venetian castle on the hill, and was once ruler of its surrounding islands leaving legacies of aristocracy. The ‘labyrinth’ street patterns exist here as a testament to the cunning of local inhabitants in their efforts to confuse and ward off piracy in past times. But that´s not all folks! Around the island you will find a lot of interesting places and we are offering to you a special roundtrip in Naxos just follow your skipper and you will see hidden areas and feel the atmosphere of Naxos!! The highlight of Naxos is going on an optional day trip guided by your CEO skipper. Rent cars (remember to bring your license) and explore the inns and outs of the the island. Stops include the Temple of Dimitra, visiting a local microbrewery, the Church of Drosiani - which has wall paintings dating back to the 6th century, stopping to take in the views of Mt. Zeus at Zas Cave, enjoying a meal at a local tavern owned by the town butcher, and finally ending the day at Apollonas beach. Please note: While it is our intention to adhere to the route described above, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. On Day 1 of your tour you will be advised of any amendments.

• Day 7 Mykonos

  Legendary both in ancient and modern times, Mykonos is one of the best-known Greek islands, and provides ample entertainment for history and party buffs alike. Just a short boat ride away from the main port lies Delos, legendary birthplace of Apollo and home of the Gods. As the most sacred island in the Aegean for ancient Greeks, Delos gave name to the Cyclades – that is, the islands encircling (kyklos) Delos. Mykonos town, as typical a whitewashed Greek island town can be, has long been famous for its nightlife, with bars and clubs filled with the beautiful of Europe rocking till dawn every night. And during the days, a short bus and boat ride takes you to some of the best—and craziest—beaches in all of Europe.

• Day 8 Mykonos

  Departure day, depart at any time. If you would like extra time in Mykonos after your sailing journey is finished, we recommend booking extra time on the island.

• Day 1 Santorini

  Arrival day. Join your group at 5pm for a welcome meeting and safety briefing before beginning your sailing journey to Mykonos. Enjoy a night cap with your crewmates on the boat, or head out to explore Santorini by night.

• Day 2-6 Southern Cyclades

  Flexible itineraries give your experienced skippers the opportunity to showcase all the hidden gems you’re looking for. We follow the desires of the group and tailor the sailing experience to provide each group a quality journey while on board. While in the Southern Cyclades, stroll through the "most elegant square in Greece" on Syros. Head out on an optional all-day adventure with your fellow shipmates and skipper as you discover the best Naxos has to offer: the Temple of Dimitra, a microbrewery, views of Mt Zeus and a meal at a local tavern. Uncover the beauty of the Venetian ruins in Paros before going cave exploring in Antiparos. While on Ios, relax on famous Magganari beach and don't forget to visit Homer's tomb. Walk and hike your way through the trails and paths of Sifnos before stopping at a local ceramic workshop. No trip is complete without wandering around the breathtaking cliffside city of Hora and enjoying cocktails while the sun sets over the whitewashed buildings that scatter the landscape.

• Day 7 Mykonos

  Celebrate your arrival on Mykonos by visiting the local windmills and enjoying a cocktail on a veranda overlooking Little Venice. The beaches and nightlife add excitement to the picturesque island.

• Day 8 Mykonos

  Departure day, depart at any time.

More About This Tour

A yacht adventure is the ideal way to experience what many consider the world's most beautiful islands: the Greek Islands. Sail for eight days aboard our 15m (50-ft.) yachts, with time for hiking, snorkelling and relaxing. Explore ancient archaeological sites and taverna-lined harbours, and dine on fresh seafood.