Ancient Greece & Ionian Islands Cruise

Your journey begins with your arrival into Athens International Airport. Our driver will provide a private transfer to your vessel in the port of Lavrio with check-in between 2 and 3 pm. Enjoy our signature cocktail before taking time to settle into your cabin and explore the facilities onboard. As we make our way to tranquil Hydra, you might want to stand on deck, enjoying the view and fresh salty sea air. Anchoring at the romantic island that seems as if it was frozen in another time with no motorized vehicles allowed and transport by donkey, boat, or on foot, dinner will be served on the ship.

While our destination today is Monemvasia, as we sail toward the Peloponnese, you’ll enjoy your first swim stop in a sheltered bay with brilliant blue waters. Enjoy lunch on board as we continue to the walled castle town that was built right out of a massive rock rising from the sea. Once within the walls, stroll the enticing cobbled alleyways while gazing up at the historic mansions, now housing boutique hotels, shops, and restaurants. You’ll have the option to take a tour that visits Hagia Sofia, one of the oldest Byzantine churches in all of Greece, complete with a breathtaking Aegean view.

An early morning arrival brings us to the southern Laconia coast for a visit to one of the oldest submerged cities in the world. Pavlopetri. A UNESCO-listed site, it dates back to the Bronze Age and you may even be able to snorkel or dive here. Tiny Elafonisos island sits just across from it with picturesque sand dunes contrasted by vibrant turquoise waters. To reach it, leap into the sea and swim ashore or we can provide a ride via a tender. After spending time at this gorgeous NATURA-protected habitat, we’ll depart for our next destination with lunch and dinner served on board.

Out at sea overnight, we’ll reach the port at Katakolon early this morning. It’s the perfect base for exploring ancient Olympia where the Olympic Games were birthed. The Temple of Hera is where the Olympic flame continues to be lit today using the rays of the sun. Take an optional tour to explore the archaeological site and museums before we continue our cruise to Zakynthos. On route, enjoy a swim stop at Vasilikos beach and perhaps a horse ride or explore the authentic villages in the area. Once at the main port, disembark to explore Zante Town with dinner served aboard this evening.

Enjoy one of our favorite destinations today, Navagio Beach, better known as Shipwreck Beach, an image that’s attracted worldwide attention with a shipwreck that sits on its pristine white sands framed by dramatic highs cliffs and surreal blue waters. You can leap right from the swimming platform of the ship to enjoy them, or we can bring you to get a closer look at the shipwreck with a visit to the soft sands. Lunch will be served on board as we depart for Ithaca, the mythical island of Odysseus. You’ll have time to explore on your own in a seaside bar or eatery.

Two excursions are available this morning for exploring Ithaca. You can choose to visit the Archaeological Collection of Stavros which features fascinating findings from the northern Ithaca and wider Stavros region. Or head to a mountain that’s home to the peaceful Kathara Monastery where its elevated position delivers an amazing view. In the afternoon, we’ll cruise on, venturing to Gidaki, a beach that’s edged by sparkling emerald waters and considered one of the most beautiful among the entire Ioanian archipelago. Dinner will be enjoyed on the ship, and we’ll cruise on toward Itea overnight while you’re sleeping.

The final full day of the cruise visits Itea, our base for exploring the ancient sanctuary of Delphi that was dedicated to the God Apollo. Located at the base of Parnassus, you can take an optional excursion to discover the site and learn about its history as the most important oracle of ancient Greece. From here, continue to Galaxidi, an appealing port with a rich maritime history. It was one of the country’s wealthiest with its past revealed in the impeccably preserved neoclassical architecture. Back on board, sip a cocktail as we cross the impressive Corinth Canal, then get ready to join our farewell dinner.

Arriving early at the port of Lavrio your trip is nearing its end. You’ll have time to enjoy one last breakfast on board and farewells to fellow passengers, many of whom are likely new friends. Perhaps exchange contact information before disembarkation which is by 10 am. You’ll be met by your driver who will provide a private transfer – you can take it to an onward hotel if you plan to spend more time in Athens, to the airport to catch your flight home or head elsewhere. With so many great destinations, our travel experts will be happy to create a bespoke addition to your itinerary.