Sailing Greece – Athens to Mykonos

Day 1 Athens

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.

Athens is the capital of Greece, the founding city of the Olympic games, and a city of culture, science and commerce. From the colourful markets, to the ancient monuments, to the hustle and bustle of Plateia Syntagmatos (Constitution Square), Athens is rich with history and an important influence on the development of Western civilization. Named after the goddess of wisdom Athena, Athens encircles eight hills within its borders. The most prominent of these, the Acropolis, stands as the ultimate architectural and artistic expression of the ancient Athenian spirit. Athens is a growing city, engulfing its neighbouring suburbs all the way to Piraeus, the city’s port and your gateway to the Greek Isles.

Day 2-6 Northern Cyclades

Possible Island stops include: Syros, Kea, Kythnos, Mykonos, Hydra, Aegina.

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.

SYROS
The city of Ermoupolis is the capital of Syros and all of the Cyclades. The major port town is bustling as it is the financial center for the islands. Syros offers great architecture, notably the Plateia Miaouli, which is a plesant town square to explore. Experience authentic Greek culture, great eating, and a handful of small but pleasant beaches. Enjoy options of going on short hikes, visiting local markets and going SCUBA diving.

HYDRA
A stylish island where the rocky hillsides are lined with elegant white and pastel stone mansions that overlook a beautiful natural harbour. Starting in the 1950s, artists, writers, and filmmakers poured in, drawn by island’s beauty. Hydra also offers a reprieve from the whizzing motorcycles that characterize most of the other Greek Islands, with no motorized transport except for a few municipal vehicles. Opt to travel by local taxi (donkey ride) through the winding streets. There are several great tavernas to eat at, some offering an experience where you dine in a local’s home.

AEGINA
Once a principal maritime power and a major trade partner with Egypt and Phoenicia, Aegina is a humble island most known now for its pistachio production. On the west coast, the harbour of Aegina Town is lined with colourful little boats, bobbing placidly on turquoise water. Around the island, a few crumbling neoclassical buildings can still be seen.

KEA
The most northern island of the Cyclades, Kea has escaped the major ferry routes keeping it’s charms away from most tourists. The lovely island is scattered with olive groves and orchards. Opt to visit the Stone Lion and stop by a family silversmith, your CEO can arrange a visit. End the day at a local taverna, where the food won’t disappoint.

KYTHNOS
Kythnos welcomes you to a picturesque bay. There are old iron mining ruins that are of interest to travellers, but the highlight has to be the local hot springs. Graced by kings and emperors throughout the years, sunset or sunrise are great times to experience the tranquility of the area, taking you back in time.

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. Tour ends the morning of Day 8, if you would like to spend more time in Mykonos we recommend booking more time on the island.