8-Day Greece Cyclades Small Ship Cruise

Welcome to Athens, after taking transfer to Marina Zeas, you’ll be able to embark anytime between 2pm and 3pm. Enjoy a welcome drink along with introductions to the crew and your fellow island-hopping passengers. We’ll begin our cruise by sailing to Poros, spending a few hours on this island in the southern Saronic Gulf known for its picturesque beaches before continuing to Polyaigos, overnighting on the Aegean.

In the morning we’ll arrive onto the largest uninhabited island in the Aegean, Polyaigos, known as the “Island of Goats” with rich fauna and mysterious, exotic beauty that includes pristine beaches that are framed by emerald waters. After enjoying a swim and a delicious BBQ onboard, we’ll sail to Folegandros with its timeless Cycladic architecture, old wooden windmills and goat-dotted hills. It has some gorgeous beaches and a fabulous bohemian character with a tranquil atmosphere as vehicles are banned – in fact, some areas of the island are still without electricity. Wander through the Upper City of Folegandros Town, with its medieval fortress at the top. You’ll find some outstanding traditional Greek tavernas here to dine at this evening.

Famous Santorini is our next destination. We’ll arrive in the morning providing plenty of time to experience its many delights. Disembark to explore Fira, the island’s unique capital with its white cluster of homes set along the cliff. We recommend a visit the Museum of Prehistoric Thira which features items from the destroyed Bronze Age settlement of Akrotiri and Oia village. An optional excursion to tour the remarkable prehistoric village of Akrotiri, preserved over centuries in volcanic ash, and the village of Oia with its stunning caldera views, is possible too.

As Santorini fades away, we cruise on to Antiparos for a swim stop in one of its secluded bays. We’ll reach Paros at noon, an island with diverse, beautiful landscapes that include rolling hills and lush valleys as a great mix of sandy beaches surreal turquoise waters. We visit Parikia, the main port with its maze of marble streets, lined with Cycladic cube-shaped homes featuring quintessential blue doors and shutters, as well as the charming village of Naoussa, famous for its vineyards and annual pirate festival. Back onboard the ship, look forward to a fun evening at our famous Greek Night, which includes the chance to showcase your dancing skills.

Our first stop this morning is the small island of Delos. This UNESCO-listed site is the birthplace of Apollo, jam-packed captivating ruins, primarily from the 5^th and 4^th centuries BC, including a theater and temples. You can join an optional tour to explore them. and once back onboard, we’ll set sail for Mykonos. Before we reach the port, take the opportunity for a refreshing swim in one of the glistening bays around the island. Afterwards, you’ll have the rest of the day to experience Mykonos at your leisure, perhaps wandering through town, checking out the many upscale shops and popping into the museums, visiting the famous windmills or relaxing on one of the beautiful beaches. The island is especially renowned for its nightlife with lots of lively bars and clubs.

Before we depart Mykonos, enjoy one last swim in its enticing waters. Afterwards we’ll journey to the capital of the Cyclades, Syros, with many easily accessible pebble and sandy beaches. Take a stroll through town to marvel at architectural gems like Ermoupolis’ city hall and Miaouli Square with its grand neoclassical buildings. Dinner and drinks can be enjoyed at one of the outstanding local tavernas that serve delicious traditional dishes with island-grown veggies and aromatic herbs.

Continuing our journey, we’ll arrive at the mountainous island of Kythnos this morning, enjoying a swim in the clear blue waters of Kolones Bay. As we head back to Marina Zea, we’ll make our way to Cape Sounion, with its nearly 200-foot-high Temple of Poseidon that soars over the Aegean. Be sure to get your cameras ready to capture some spectacular shots. We’ll overnight at Marina Zeas – as this is the last night of the cruise, you may want to gather your fellow passengers and new friends together to exchange photos and contact information.

With departure day here, you’ll disembark after breakfast. Get your bags packed and ready, take time for farewells and then take transfer to your onward hotel in Athens or Athens International Airport, with disembarkation at 9 a.m.

• Preferred hotel Elia Emrou