Unexplored Greek Islands Cruise | 8 Days

DAY 1:                                ATHENS – CAPE SOUNION – AT SEA

Embarkation 02:00-03:00pm. Set sail for nearby Cape Sounion. Sunset cocktails and welcome dinner al fresco under the ancient Greek temple of Poseidon. Overnight at sea towards the island of Ikaria. (D)

DAY 2:                                IKARIA

In the morning, enjoy a refreshing swim at Seychelles Beach, accessible by yacht, with its crystal-clear waters and striking white pebbles. After a BBQ lunch on board, arrive at the charming port of Ikaria – a renowned Blue Zone island famous for its remarkable longevity. Choose an optional excursion to explore authentic villages, hike scenic landscapes, relax in natural thermal springs, or join a traditional cooking experience in a local home. Alternatively, enjoy the afternoon at leisure. Overnight in Ikaria. (B, L)

DAY 3:                                IKARIA – PATMOS – LIPSI

Early morning sailing brings us to Patmos, the spiritual “Jerusalem of the Aegean.” Visit the UNESCO-listed Grotto of St. John, Monastery of St. John, and the medieval town of Chora, rich in history and serenity. In the afternoon, sail to Lipsi, a charming Dodecanese gem. Enjoy lunch on deck and a swim among protected islets, followed by a tasting of local Aposperitis red wine. Spend the evening at leisure by the harbour before your overnight stay in Lipsi. (B, L)

DAY 4:                                LIPSI – KALYMNOS

Early morning sailing takes us to Kalymnos, with a swim stop along the way. A hidden gem of the Dodecanese, Kalymnos is perfect for those seeking simplicity and authenticity. Known for its famous sponge divers, the island offers plenty of hiking adventures for modern explorers. Join our optional tour to meet local sponge harvesters, see the many species, and learn the process that produces around 30,000 sponges annually. Spend the afternoon at leisure – hike the trails or admire the stunning Esperidon Fjord, one of Greece’s most beautiful fjords. Overnight in Kalymnos. (B, L)

DAY 5:                                KALYMNOS – AMORGOS (AT PORT)

The ship sails towards the white and blue Cyclades. Enjoy a stop at Egiali Beach, followed by a BBQ lunch. In the early afternoon, sail to Amorgos, the island famous for Luc Besson’s “Big Blue”. Rich in traditions, firewater, and laid-back villages, Amorgos will transport you far from the 20th century, let alone the 21st. Spend the afternoon with locals learning to make the islands renowned “Psimeni Raki”, a homemade liquor flavoured with honey and clove, crafted on Amorgos since ancient times. Evening at leisure to explore the breathtaking medieval capital, perched 400 m above sea level. Overnight in Amorgos. (B, L)

DAY 6:                                AMORGOS – KOUFONISIA – IRAKLIA

Start with an optional early-morning visit to the Monastery of Chozoviotissa (built 1088), exploring the monks’ cells and enjoying Psimeni Raki with a local sweet while admiring views of the Aegean Sea. Sail to the Small Cyclades for a swim in Koufonisia and explore hidden sea caves by kayak or paddleboard. In the afternoon, cruise past Schinoussa before reaching Iraklia, a serene Aegean gem part of the Natura 2000 network. Evening at leisure to experience authentic Greek island life. Overnight in port. (B, L)

DAY 7:                                IRAKLIA – SERIFOS – AT SEA

In the morning, we arrive at Serifos, a quintessential Cycladic island of sparkling light, clear waters, and enduring traditions. Join an optional tour of the charming Chora with our expert local guide, followed by free time to explore and enjoy lunch ashore. In the early afternoon, we sail back to our home port. In the evening, gather for a farewell dinner. (B, D)

DAY 8:                                ATHENS

Disembarkation at 08:30-9:00 am after breakfast. End of services. (B)

INCLUDES:

• Accommodation in a cabin with private ensuite and air conditioning
• Select shore excursions included: Amorgos half-day walking tour & Patmos half-day tour
• Meals as per itinerary
• Filter coffee, tea and mineral water all day
• Complimentary house wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner on board
• Local delicacies treat on board
• Special activities on board: Welcome sail-away reception on day 1, a Greek night theme evening with traditional music and/or dancers onboard, fun BBQ lunches (weather permitting), and Captain’s Dinner
• Use of fishing and snorkelling equipment (masks, fins and snorkels), and beach towels
• Kayaks, water toys and stand-up paddle boards (subject to availability)
• English-speaking cruise escort

EXCLUDES:

• Beverages (except those mentioned above)
• Shore excursions on the islands (except those mentioned above) or other land arrangements
• Optional shore excursions
• Crew tips
• Passenger personal expenses
• Wi-Fi (available at a charge)

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 tour is subject to change.
• The Company reserves the right to substitute the vessel.