Marina Zeas, Corinth, Kefalonia, Antipaxos, Paxos, Corfu, Ithaca, Vathy, Missolonghi, Aegina
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Experience the Ionian islands with emerald landscapes, sparkling turquoise waters and colorful tranquil port towns
Day 1 – Friday: MARINA ZEAS, ATHENS – CORINTH CANAL – AT SEA
Embark in Marina Zeas in Athens, between 2-3 pm (14:00-15:00hrs). Feel the excitement build as you receive a warm welcome with a refreshing drink, setting the tone for the maritime escapade ahead. Familiarize yourself with your floating home, forge connections with fellow travellers and the friendly crew. The ship departs soon after embarkation when our Captain’s welcome and the safety drill demonstration is over. As the sun paints the sky with hues of gold, indulge in a sumptuous Welcome Dinner on board. We are ready to navigate the legendary Corinth Canal and venture towards the enchanting destination of Kefalonia. Overnight at sea.
Day 2 – Saturday: KEFALONIA
Awaken to the gentle lull of the sea as we anchor at a secluded bay near Sami, for a refreshing morning swim-stop. Immerse yourself in the crystalline waters, surrounded by the natural beauty that defines Kefalonia. Following lunch onboard, we make our way to Sami port, a captivating locale renowned as the main setting for the movie “Captain Corelli’s Mandolin.” Enjoy the afternoon at your leisure, exploring the surroundings of nearby Mellisani Cave or stroll around the serene Karavomilos Lake. For those seeking further exploration, indulge in an optional excursion to uncover the island’s hidden gems. Venture into the enchanting Drogarati cave, wander through the capital town of Argostoli, pay homage to the island’s patron saint at the Monastery of Agios Gerasimos, and savour the flavours of renowned local wines at one of the island’s prestigious wineries. As the sun dips below the horizon, indulge in the freedom to choose your dining experience. Whether you opt for a charming local eatery or a seaside taverna, let the flavours of Kefalonia tantalize your taste buds. Overnight in Sami, Kefalonia.
Day 3 – Sunday: KEFALONIIA – ANTIPAXOS – PAXOS – AT SEA
Early morning sail towards these enchanting islands, celebrated for their natural splendour, crystalline waters, and verdant landscapes. Our vessel arrives at Antipaxos, a gem nestled close to Paxos, renowned for its small size yet grandeur in stunning beaches and translucent turquoise waters. Immerse yourself in the beauty of a pristine beach, revel in a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear sea, and delight in an onboard BBQ. In the afternoon, set sail for Gaios, the heart of Paxos and its main town and port. Gaios greets you with its picturesque charm and captivating allure. Wander through narrow lanes adorned with vibrant flowers, explore local boutiques, and absorb the island’s unique atmosphere. At sunset, Gaios transforms into a romantic haven. Enjoy the freedom of your evening, discovering the local cuisine at a charming taverna or experiencing the vibrant nightlife in Gaios. Whether you prefer a leisurely dinner under the stars or dancing the night away, Gaios caters to every whim. Following midnight, we set sail towards Corfu.
Day 4 – Monday: CORFU – AT SEA
Your seafaring adventure reaches the enchanting island of Corfu, where history, architecture, and culture intertwines in a mesmerizing tapestry. As we dock near Corfu’s cruise port, immerse yourself in the allure of the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Corfu, or Kerkyra, beckons with its unique blend of influences from the Venetians, French, British, and Greeks. Enjoy a full day at your leisure to explore both the town and the island. Delve into the layers of Corfu’s past, from ancient influences to more recent cultural amalgamations. The island’s diverse architecture, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant culture await your discovery. For those seeking a deeper dive into Corfu’s splendours, join our optional morning excursion to Kanoni area. Marvel at the breathtaking view of Mouse Island and the Vlacherna Monastery. Explore the Mon Repo Palace with its museum and lush green garden. A guided walk through the Old Town unveils the Liston Promenade and Spianada Square, offering a glimpse into Corfu’s rich heritage. Return to the ship for a Greek Night celebration on board. Immerse yourself in the lively spirit of Greek culture through music, dance, and culinary delights. Overnight at sea.
Day 5 – Tuesday: ITHACA – VATHI – ITHACA
Wake up to the tranquillity of Meganisi, a small and picturesque island gracing the Ionian Sea, situated off the eastern coast of the larger island of Lefkada. The day unfolds on Meganisi, presenting you with the delightful dilemma of deciding whether to plunge into the refreshing sea or savour a leisurely breakfast on the deck. Our suggestion? Why not indulge in both, making the most of the idyllic surroundings. After a delicious BBQ lunch on board, our ship gracefully navigates towards Vathi, the capital and main port of Ithaca. Renowned for its connection to Homer’s epic poem, the Odyssey, Ithaca stands as the famed homeland of Odysseus. Vathi welcomes you with a picturesque panorama, featuring colourful houses adorning the waterfront, traditional tavernas, and charming shops that imbue the town with a serene atmosphere. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, where the echo of ancient tales mingles with the gentle lapping of the sea. Choose one of the typical tavernas that line the waterfront for an evening of culinary delights. Whether you opt for fresh seafood or traditional Greek fare, Vathi promises a feast for the senses. As the night descends, let the captivating charm of Vathi cradle you in its embrace. Whether you choose to savour a moonlit moment on deck or explore the town’s evening ambiance, the overnight stay in Vathi extends an invitation to immerse yourself in the tranquillity of legendary Ithaca.
Day 6 – Wednesday: ITHACA – MESSOLONGHI – AT SEA
As the sun rises, our vessel departs from the charming port of Ithaca, embarking on a morning journey to the historically significant town of Messolonghi. Our experienced captain promises a scenic route, making a delightful pitstop at a beautiful beach for another refreshing swim. Have a tasty lunch onboard as we navigate through the Gulf of Patras. Let the sea breeze carry you towards Messolonghi, a town steeped in history, cultural heritage, and a poignant connection to the struggle for Greek independence. Our first adventure in Messolonghi involves a walking tour into the lagoon, renowned for its biodiversity and a sanctuary for birdwatchers. Immerse yourself in the natural splendour as various migratory bird species make this habitat their own. Afterward, wander through the charming old town, where traditional architecture, narrow streets, and historic buildings reflect the town’s diverse history under Ottoman and Venetian rule. Feel the echoes of different eras as you explore the winding streets, absorbing the essence of Messolonghi’s rich past. As evening descends, dine in one of the local tavernas. In the late evening, we set sail toward the iconic Corinth Canal.
Day 7 – Thursday: CORINTH CANAL – AGISTRI – AEGINA – MARINA ZEAS, ATHENS
As dawn graces the horizon, witness the awe-inspiring passage through the Corinth Canal, a testament to human ingenuity connecting the Saronic Gulf with the Aegean Sea. The morning unfolds with breathtaking views, marking the beginning of a day filled with exploration. Our maritime sojourn takes us to the small yet enchanting island of Agistri, known for its natural beauty and crystal-clear waters. Indulge in a final swim off the ship, savouring the embrace of the Saronic Gulf. A healthy light lunch onboard sets the stage for our arrival at Aegina. Enjoy free time to explore the island and its charming town or opt for our optional excursion, unveiling the Monastery of Agios Nectarios, the ancient temple of Aphaia, and the picturesque Aegina town. As the sun sets on the Saronic, relish a Captain’s Farewell Dinner, a culinary celebration of the experiences shared, and memories created throughout the cruise. Our voyage concludes with an evening arrival at Marina Zeas. The twinkling lights of Athens greet you, providing a fitting backdrop to reminisce about the days spent exploring the wonders of the Ionian islands. Overnight on board in Athens.
Day 8 – Friday: MARINA ZEAS, ATHENS
Disembarkation at 8:30 am after breakfast. End of services.
Inclusions:
Not included:
Things to Note:
– PLEASE CONTACT VARIETY CRUISES A DAY BEFORE OR MORNING OF EMBARKATION TO RECONFIRM YOUR SERVICE
– Swim stops and port stops are weather permitting.
– Itinerary is subject to weather conditions and sailing is not permitted in force 6-7 Beaufort winds.
– Sequence of the cruise is subject to change.
– The Company reserves the right to substitute the vessel.
Download this trip's brochure as a PDF.
All rates are based on twin/double share. Please enquire for single and triple rates. Rates are based on AUD. Availability is conditional on final confirmation from the supplier and is subject to change.
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