Acruise aboard the 49-passenger MY Elysium is a wonderful way to experience the lesser-known islands of the Aegean and encounter their timeless quality. Part of the joy of a cruise aboard a small vessel is its capability to dock in small ports or drop anchor in any suitable spot, unlike the large ships which can only dock in the larger ports with all the supporting infrastructure necessary to service the vessels.
Setting sail from Athens, the cradle of western civilisation, we will cruise through the turquoise waters of the Aegean on a voyage through the playground of the Greek Gods. During this 11-night voyage we will visit some truly idyllic islands which are very difficult to access without relying on the local ferry network. Our custom-made itinerary focuses on many islands that the mega cruise ships cannot access and, in addition to our included guided excursions and some day time sailing, there will be ample time at leisure for some independent exploration or to swim in the intensely blue Aegean from the vessel or local beaches.
Some of the many hidden island gems we have included in our bespoke itinerary are Fourni, Lipsi, Leros, Kimolos and Sifnos. During our time on these idyllic islands, we can wander through the charming, whitewashed villages, explore the picturesque harbours and visit some ancient sites including the grotto of St John on the island of Patmos and the magnificent archaeological site on the island of Delos, birthplace of Apollo.
The Elysium Difference: We have designed our itineraries aboard the MY Elysium in order to achieve the maximum benefit from the advantages of her size and style. There will be yoga and Pilates sessions offered on board and we have incorporated a number of stops into the sailing schedule to facilitate swimming from the vessel. We also expect to be at anchor when visiting some of the smaller islands and in such instances will use the vessel’s Zodiac landing craft to shuttle ashore.
Elysium
We are delighted to have chartered the 49-passenger yacht, the Elysium from our Greek associates at Elixir Cruises. At 64 metres in length and with just 25 cabins, the Elysium is truly a boutique ship enabling an intimate and relaxing experience on board and the perfect escape from the formalities of the larger vessels. The team of friendly Greek crew members all speak English and their excellent service and hospitality will do much to add to your enjoyment of your time on board. With a focus on wellbeing and the beauty of the Aegean, there is a range of activities to enjoy both on and off the ship whether you wish to visit idyllic coves and beaches, swim in the turquoise waters, enjoy a session of yoga or Pilates on board, take a hike to a nearby volcano, wander through the picturesque villages, or simply relax on deck enjoying the stunning scenery.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Athens, Greece.
Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to the MY Elysium in Lavrion and embark. Set sail this evening.
Day 2 Naxos.
The largest island of the Cyclades, Naxos offers a blend of ancient ruins, mountainous landscapes and sandy beaches. Arriving this morning we will sail by the ancient Portara, a massive marble doorway and all that remains of an ancient temple built for Apollo. According to mythology this is where Theseus abandoned his love Ariadne after killing the Minotaur on the island of Crete. After docking in the town we can stroll through the narrow alleys to the castle of Hora and walk past the 14th century mansion houses, the cathedral and maybe visit the archaeological museum which provides a journey through Naxian history. This afternoon we hope to find a bay for our first swimming stop of the cruise.
Day 3 Delos & Mykonos.
Though the smallest of the Cyclades, Delos was once the political and religious centre for the whole of the Aegean. Birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, it boasted an oracle second only to that of Delphi. Explore the magnificent archaeological site including the marble sanctuary of Apollo. Later we sail to the cosmopolitan island of Mykonos. Here, we can photograph the iconic windmills, explore the swirling pathways of the white-washed Chora with the many elegant boutiques and cafes or enjoy a sunset drink at Little Venice.
Day 4 Fourni.
After a morning at sea we arrive at one of the best kept secret islands in the Aegean, Fourni. Once a haven for pirates who enjoyed the island’s remote setting and little changed for centuries, it has a wonderfully peaceful atmosphere. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure to walk up from the harbour to the charming main square and perhaps relax with a drink whilst observing island life.
Day 5 Patmos.
Of all the Greek islands, Patmos is the most sacred to Christians both Orthodox and Western and it was here that St John received his revelation. This morning we will make our way to the grotto of St John. This small cave, now converted into a beautiful chapel, is where the Saint lived, had his revelation and wrote ‘Book of the Apocalypse’. From here continue to the village of Chora, with its simple houses and Byzantine churches and climb to the Monastery of St John the Theologian. Upon entering into the courtyard, admire the intricate pebbled laid floor, decorated arches and frescoes adorning the entrance to the chapel of Christodoulos. Return to the ship for lunch and this afternoon and evening are at leisure to explore the picturesque town of Skala or maybe enjoy a swim at a nearby beach.
Day 6 Lipsi & Leros.
Today we can use our small ship to visit two of the less visited islands of the Dodecanese. Spend the morning on Lipsi. At just eight kilometres long, this tiny island is popular with yachts and has avoided the development of many surrounding islands. It is a wonderful place to spend a few hours walking amongst the whitewashed houses or to take the opportunity to visit a local beach for a swim. Over lunch we sail to Leros, the island of Artemis, the God of hunting. We will drive to the capital, Platanos to see the Pandeli Castle which overlooks Agia Marina and offers wonderful views from the ramparts to the harbour below and islands beyond. The Battle of Leros was a central event in World War II and we will visit the War Museum and Commonwealth Cemetery before returning to the ship.
Day 7 Nisyros.
Another island of the Dodecanese group, Nisyros is a volcanic island and from our berth in the port of Mandraki we drive to the Polyvotis Volcano named after the Titan imprisoned under the rock of Nisyros during the battle with the gods. Here we will learn more of the legends and have the chance to walk into the caldera. Later, choose to relax on board or maybe wander through the village, climb to the Monastery of Panagia Spiliani or visit the archaeological museum. We will sail this afternoon and enjoy some time at sea as we return to the Cyclades Islands.
Day 8 Ios & Magganari Bay.
Arrive over breakfast in Ios and the port of Yialos. A short drive brings us to Chora one of the most picturesque villages in the Cyclades where we can wander through the beautiful alleyways which are alive with colourful flowers, winding staircases, cafes, lovely boutiques and visit the striking cathedral church built in the Cycladic style with white walls and a blue dome. This afternoon we sail around the coast for a refreshing swim stop at Magganari Bay, one of the most beautiful sandy beaches in Greece.
Day 9 Milos & Kimolos.
Trade drove the early development of civilisation in the Aegean and Milos was a valuable source of quality obsidian used in ancient tools, knives and weapons. Created from volcanic activity, this super-hard glass was excavated and one of the Mediterranean’s most ancient mines is found on this island. On a morning island tour we will visit the picturesque, whitewashed village of Plaka including the archaeological museum where we find a copy of the ‘Venus de Milo” statue which was discovered on the island and the Roman theatre of Mylos. This afternoon we set sail to Kimolos Island, a true hidden gem. Spend time exploring the picturesque village of traditional whitewashed houses as we moor overnight.
Day 10 Sifnos.
Continuing our journey through the smaller islands of the Cyclades we arrive on Sifnos where we are greeted by traditional white houses, picturesque churches and narrow lanes and alleys. An island tour will include Apollonia, the island’s tiny capital, the Virysianni Monastery and the villages of Kastro and Artemos, both delightful places to wander and admire the traditional architecture. The afternoon is free to explore the port town of Kamares at your own pace before we sail for the short distance to Serifos where we anchor overnight.
Day 11 Serifos & Kolona Bay.
Awake in Serifos, a lesser-known island of distinct Cycladic flair, dotted with windmills, white-washed chapels, pristine beaches and sugar cubed houses that perch on the rocky hillsides surrounding the port. An island drive will include the 15th century Taxiarchon Monastery and the hill top village of Panagia with wonderful views over the island. Sailing over lunch we will anchor at Kolona Bay Beach, famous for its crystal-clear waters and golden sand for a final swimming opportunity.
Day 12 Athens to London.
Disembark after breakfast in the port of Lavrion and transfer to the airport for the return scheduled flight to London.
Dates and Prices
Prices per person based on double occupancy30 April to 11 May 2024 | ||
---|---|---|
Category | Price | |
C Twin/Double Cabin on Ammos Deck with portholes | £6495 | |
B Twin/Double Cabin on Ammos Deck with porthole/s | £6795 | |
B + Twin/Double Cabin on Ammos Deck with portholes | £6995 | |
A Twin/Double Cabin on Astra Deck with picture window | £7295 | |
A+ Twin/Double Cabin on Astra Deck with picture window | £7795 | |
C Twin/Double Cabin on Ammos Deck with portholes for sole use | £7495 | |
B Twin/Double Cabin on Ammos Deck with portholes for sole use | £7795 |
Tour Reference Code: SCEY300424
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • 11 nights aboard the MY Elysium on a full board basis • House wine, beer & soft drinks with lunch and dinner • Noble Caledonia onboard team • Shore excursions • Yoga/ Pilates sessions on board • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
NB. Ports & itinerary are subject to change. We will be at anchor off some islands and the onboard Zodiac landing craft will be used regularly to transport passengers ashore.
Elysium
We are delighted to have chartered the 49-passenger yacht, the Elysium from our Greek associates at Elixir Cruises. At 64 metres in length and with just 25 cabins, the Elysium is truly a boutique ship enabling an intimate and relaxing experience on board and the perfect escape from the formalities of the larger vessels. The team of friendly Greek crew members all speak English and their excellent service and hospitality will do much to add to your enjoyment of your time on board. With a focus on wellbeing and the beauty of the Aegean, there is a range of activities to enjoy both on and off the ship whether you wish to visit idyllic coves and beaches, swim in the turquoise waters, enjoy a session of yoga or Pilates on board, take a hike to a nearby volcano, wander through the picturesque villages, or simply relax on deck enjoying the stunning scenery.
Also of Interest
Aegean Antiquities
A voyage from Athens to Istanbul aboard the MS Hebridean Sky
Hebridean Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Athens / Nafplio / Nemea / Mycenae / Epidaurus / Delos / Syros / Patmos / Kusadasi / Ephesus / Pergamon / Canakkale / Troy / Bursa / Istanbul
Island Hopping in the Aegean
Discover some of the most beautiful Greek Isles aboard the MS Monet
Monet
Itinerary at a glance
- Athens / Folegandros / Sifnos / Syros / Fourni / Samos / Kusadasi / Patmos / Lipsi / leros / Nisyros / Symi / Rhodes
Aegean & Adriatic Odyssey
A voyage between Athens & Split aboard the MS Monet
Monet
Itinerary at a glance
- Athens / Corinth Canal / Itea / Argostoli / Preveza / Sarande / Otranto / Lecce / Monopoli / Kotor / Dubrovnik / Korcula / Brac / Split
Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000