Dreaming of crystal-clear waters, whitewashed villages, historical ruins, lively Greek culture and deliciously fresh cuisine straight off the land or from the sea? Then sailing from Greece's Santorini to Mykonos may just be what the doctor ordered! Spend eight blissed-out days under sun drenched skies enjoying the best the Greek Islands of Santorini, Ios, Amorgos, Small Cyclades, Naxos and Mykonos have to offer.
Dreaming of crystal-clear waters, whitewashed villages, historical ruins, lively Greek culture and deliciously fresh cuisine straight off the land or from the sea? Then sailing from Greece's Santorini to Mykonos may just be what the doctor ordered! Spend eight blissed-out days under sun drenched skies enjoying the best the Greek Islands of Santorini, Ios, Amorgos, Small Cyclades, Naxos and Mykonos have to offer.
Kalimera! Welcome to Greece. You’ll meet your skipper at 1 pm at Cafe Spartakos, where your adventure will immediately begin. Take a private boat over to Thirasia, where you’ll board the yacht – your home for the next seven nights. If you arrive in Santorini early (and it’s recommended that you do), maybe check out the local restaurants, shops and bars in Fira or walk along the caldera's rim to Firostefani, Imerovigli and Oia for sunset. Santorini's volcanic beaches are another must-see. Check out Red Beach or the black beaches of Perissa, Vlhada, Perivolos and Agios Georgios. After the meeting, set sail across the Aegean Sea to drop anchor at the island of Ios (the boat will stop at Manganari Beach along the way). Check out Hora's shops, restaurants and bars (a short walk from the harbour in Ios) which all come alive in the evening.
Today, cast off and sail to the Small Cyclades, where only Koufonisia, Iraklia, Schinousa and Donousa have permanent residents. Here, you'll discover clear waters, great beaches, friendly locals and sleepy tavernas all built around the fishing villages. Explore the town, maybe sampling some fresh seafood in a waterfront taverna – a great way to take in the magic of the Mediterranean. Over the next few days, you’ll head to Amorgos, Naxos and Syros, depending on the weather and the wishes of the group. The rugged mountainous island of Amorgos is known as the location of Luc Bresson's film 'The Big Blue'. Amorgos has a history of colonisation and occupation with evidence of a functioning society back as far as 4000 BC. At Katapola, the island's main port, you'll see classic Cycladic architecture with windmills and an old Venetian castle. Stroll the waterfront, explore the ancient Minoan Settlement or visit the village of Hora (Amorgos town) which sits high on the rocky mountainside. Maybe drive up to the 11th-century monastery, Moni Hozoviotissis, built gripping the cliff-face with panoramic views across the Aegean Sea. Continue to Naxos for more beaches, villages and the fragrant olive groves of Hora (the capital). This place has a colourful mythological history and the Old Town is perfect for a stroll. Follow a pathway up to the impressive Venetian Kastro where mansions, monuments and churches all retain their medieval spirit in a mass of winding laneways. Stop by the old Roman Catholic Cathedral in the square, and the nearby Archaeological Museum which is housed in the former Jesuit School of Commerce. Maybe head into the countryside to see the local rural life, visit one of the oldest temples in Greece and chill out in the hills with lunch at a family tavern. Get a taste of the heady local brew, Kitron (best described as a lemon liquor), and top it off with a walk along the beach. Sail to the island of Syros, dropping by the Bay of Gaidharos along the way for a swim. Known for its relaxed atmosphere and neo-classical architecture, Syros’ neutral role during the Greek Revolution made it a safe haven for the persecuted. You can catch a bus up the hill to the fortress-like village of Ano Syros and explore the town’s stone archways and narrow alleyways (the views of the Aegean are stunning from up here). Sample authentic Greek food and culture in the capital of Syros and the Cyclades, Ermoupoli, and check out the town hall in the main square.
Lifting anchor, set off on a short sail to Mykonos, arriving in the late afternoon. This classic Mediterranean island boasts white-washed architecture that clings to the labyrinth of narrow streets and laneways. The hum of the nightlife, cafes, restaurants, galleries and boutiques give way to the island's best sandy beaches. Soak in the atmosphere by joining fellow sun-seekers and party-goers on the beach or take a daytrip to the sacred island of Delos – the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. Little Venice has colourful wooden balconies that hang precariously over the sea and this is the perfect spot to sit back with a cocktail and enjoy an Aegean sunset.
Your trip ends today at around 10 am. There are no activities planned, but it’s recommended you book an extra night's accommodation so you have plenty of time to explore Mykonos.
Transport
Boat
Accommodation
Overnight boat (7 nights)
Included Activities
As the majority of this trip takes place on a sailing boat, you’ll need to feel comfortable with moving about the vessel, including the use of stairs. With that said, sea legs come naturally to some but not so much for others. Your friendly crew will be able to help with the effects of sea sickness if needed. Our yachts have a small Zodiac on board, which is used to transport travellers to shore if we need to anchor in the bay. However, we will most often overnight in the small marinas on each island we visit, so the Zodiacs aren’t used. Zodiacs can sometimes be awkward to climb in and out of, but a sense of humour and a can-do attitude are all you need. This is an adventure on board a real yacht, which means living spaces, cabins, bathrooms and showers need to be shared with other passengers. Sleeping quarters can be quite compact, but you will be spending the majority of your time above board in the open air. Time on the water also means time in the sun. Remember to pack sun protection, such as sunscreen and a hat, and drink plenty of water to keep hydrated. See ‘Essential Trip Information’ below for a full packing list. Please note that smooth sailing is dependent on the weather, so itinerary changes may occur at the last minute if the weather becomes unfavourable. If any changes are made, you can trust in your knowledgeable skipper to choose an alternative route or activity. Due to the size of the yachts, sound carries easily from one side to the other and can wake your fellow travellers. If you’re planning to have a late night, it’s a good idea to head into town and experience the local night life.
Departing
Finishing
NZD 2,506.00
/Person
