October is a wonderful time of year to discover Greece’s Peloponnese region and Ionian islands by small ship with quiet sites and pleasant temperatures. Join the 50-passenger MS Monet in Athens and embark on a journey of discovery through the lands of gods and heroes. The combination of history and natural beauty of the area makes for the perfect balance and we will enjoy some day time sailing as well as some late departures from port allowing for some pre or post dinner strolls.
The Peloponnese is home to an extraordinary collection of great archaeological sites with tangible traces of the many civilisations which have at one point over the course of history called this region home including classical temples, Mycenaean palaces, Byzantine cities and Ottoman and Venetian fortresses. The peninsula is of course also the setting for numerous myths and legends which will be brought to life by our local guides who travel with us aboard the MS Monet, adding an extra dimension to all we see and experience.
Our time in the Peloponnese will introduce you to the picturesque ports of Nafplio and Pylos, the famous citadel of Mycenae, the ancient site and renowned theatre at Epidaurus, the Medieval castle town of Monemvasia, and the sporting history of Olympia. Beyond these fascinating sites, there is beautiful mountainous scenery, vast gorges and charming villages and we will also enjoy the opportunity to sample local delights including the olive oil and wines of the region. Whether you are interested in ancient history, Greek myths or simply the joy of cruising aboard a small ship and experiencing new places and islands in this beautiful region, our voyage has something for everyone.
Monet
We are delighted to have chartered the MS Monet, a 220 foot motor yacht accommodating a maximum of 50 guests. Originally built in 1970, MS Monet was converted and launched as a passenger ship in 1998, fully renovated in 2016 and upgraded again in 2018. If you find large resort style vessels accommodating many thousands of passengers attractive then of course this isn’t the vessel for you. However, if you prefer an informal and warm atmosphere more akin to a private yacht combined with an itinerary dedicated to both discovery and relaxation then you need look no further.
2025 Itinerary
Day 1 London to Athens, Greece.
Fly by scheduled flight. Arrive and transfer to the MS Monet. Sail this evening.
Day 2 Nafplio.
Looking out across the translucent water of the bay towards the Arcadian Mountains, Nafplio’s sheltered location below a rocky headland and large natural fortress crowned by a Venetian castle is perhaps unrivalled in Greece. After a relaxing morning at sea and lunch on board, we will head to the famous citadel of Mycenae which is located high above the confluence of two boulder-strewn ravines and accessed by way of the Lion Gate. Once inside the gate, we will explore the Royal Palace, the shaft graves and the remains of the city walls. An archaeological briefing within the Treasury of Atreus (also known as the Tomb of Agamemnon) will add to our understanding and appreciation of the sights. We moor overnight in Nafplio allowing time for an after-dinner stroll.
Day 3 Nafplio.
After breakfast we depart on a tour to one of the most renowned of Greece’s ancient sites. Situated on the slopes of a beautiful and wooded valley, Epidaurus was known throughout the Hellenic world for its unique medical facilities and healing treatments. Dedicated to Asclepius, the god of healing, the city was filled with curative spas and baths and only priests had access to certain secret rites. Most of the ruins of Epidaurus have been reduced to their foundations, with the exception of the astonishing theatre. Still used for special performances, the theatre is in an admirable state of preservation. Return to the MS Monet for lunch and enjoy a leisurely afternoon in Nafplio to wander the twisting labyrinthine streets and admire the Venetian and Turkish architecture of this charming town.
Day 4 Gythio & Monemvasia.
We arrive in picturesque Gythio this morning and board our coach heading east towards magical Monemvasia. A massive rock rises dramatically out of the sea and on top there is a fortress. However, the real attraction is the Medieval town with its narrow cobbled streets and winding stairways which lead to a warren of stone houses with walled gardens and courtyards, and the main square dominated by an old cannon and the cathedral. During our guided walking tour we will visit the town castle, followed by a short transfer to Liotrivi mansion. The estate here was cultivated by the family of Eleftherios Ritsos (the father of Greek poet Yiannis Ritsos), and it was used as a summer house by the poet’s family. We will have the opportunity to sample the local specialities during an olive oil tasting followed by a buffet lunch of local products and wines. After lunch we will return to the ship for a free afternoon in Gythio.
Day 5 Pylos.
This morning we will call into the home of Nestor, the wise king of Pylos who fought for the Greeks at Troy and advised Odysseus’s son, Telemachus, on how best to deal with the evil suitors chasing his mother, Penelope. From our berth in Navarino Bay, we will drive through the enchanting countryside to Methoni, one of the most impressive Medieval fortresses in Greece. The Venetians built Methoni on the Ionian Sea and Koroni on the Gulf of Messenia in the 13th century to safeguard their newly acquired Greek Empire. Also visit the castle of Neokastro which today houses the Centre for Underwater Archaeological Studies. Enjoy lunch on board and a free afternoon to explore Pylos independently. For those interested in learning more about King Nestor we will arrange an afternoon tour to his palace situated a short distance from Pylos and considered one of the best preserved of the Mycenean Palaces in Greece.
Day 6 Katakolon & Olympia.
The port of Katakolon will be our base today for our excursion to Olympia. Pastoral and lush, Olympia’s plentiful ruins are shaded by Aleppo pines and olive trees. The fame of Olympia rests upon the Olympic Games. During the celebrations that accompanied the Games, competitors, while not forgetting that they were Athenians, Spartans or from other city states, remembered that they were Greeks and regarded an Olympic victory as the highest honour. We will see the gymnasium, the stadium and the palestra or wrestling school. We will also explore the Altis, or sacred precinct of Zeus, which houses structures including the Temple of Zeus, one of the largest temples on the Greek mainland and the Archaeological Museum which houses some fine sculptures and artefacts from the site. After our visit you may choose to return to the MS Monet for lunch and an afternoon at leisure in Katakolon or stay in Olympia to explore further independently.
Day 7 Argostoli, Kefalonia.
Sail this morning into Kefalonia, the largest of the Ionian Islands. From our berth in Argostoli we have a choice of excursions. A half day tour will drive to the famous lighthouse of Agioi Theodori, the remarkable Venetian castle of Saint George and the 16th century Monastery of Agios Gerasimos. St Gerasimos is the patron saint of Kefalonia, and his relic is kept in the monastery, in a silver urn. Near to the monastery we find the Robala vineyards. Wines have been grown here since the 12th century and we will learn about the processes and enjoy a tasting before we return to the ship. The afternoon is free to explore the town of Argostoli. Alternatively a full day tour will drive to the north of the island passing the famous Myrtos beach as we drive to the village of Assos. With just 100 residents it is one of the most charming spots of the island. Built on a small peninsula the town dominated by the ruins of a 16th century Venetian castle. After time to wander the streets viewing the traditional architecture, pretty harbour and pebbled beaches we continue to the small port of Fiskardo which curves serenely beside coral-blue waters, gazing out towards Ithaki. Thanks to its colourful crop of Venetian villas, spared from earthquake damage because they rest on a sturdy bed of flat rock, Fiskardo is home to upscale restaurants built around the small harbour where yachts jostle for space to dock. After lunch in the port and some free time to explore we return to the MS Monet.
Day 8 Preveza.
Sail to the port of Preveza from where we head for the little known ancient city of Nikopolis, one of the largest and most important sites in the whole of Greece. Built by the Roman Emperor Octavianus Augustus following his victory at Aktiun in 31 BC over Antony and Cleopatra, inside its extensive walls are the Odeum, the Theatre, the Nymphaeum and the monument to Augustus. Later, the city flourished in the early Christian period as the seat of the archbishop of old Epiros, but earthquakes and invading Goths and Vandals led to its demise. Returning to the ship in Preveza for lunch the afternoon is free to explore this pretty, yacht lined harbour town.
Day 9 Corfu.
Arrive this morning on the island of Corfu, one of the most richly endowed of all the Greek Isles. Praised by Homer in ‘The Odyssey’ and selected by Shakespeare as the setting for ‘The Tempest’, the island retains evidence of cultural heritage from each of its past rulers - Byzantium, Venice, France, Russia and Great Britain. Our guided tour will include the famous Byzantine Monastery of the Virgin at Paleokastritsa which is still inhabited by a community of monks. The small museum houses some priceless Byzantine icons. Spend some time in the serene monastery gardens that afford a splendid view over the turquoise waters of the bay. Continue to Mon Repos Palace, the summer residence of the British Governors of Corfu which now houses a museum including many Ionian treasures and is surrounded by a large park. Return to the ship for lunch and this afternoon will be free to explore Corfu Town with its idyllic pastel coloured Venetian mansions and fine museums.
Day 10 Corfu to London.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London.
2026 itinerary
Day 1 London to Corfu, Greece.
Fly by scheduled flight. Arrive and transfer to the MS Monet. Enjoy dinner on board as we moor overnight.
Day 2 Corfu.
Praised by Homer in ‘The Odyssey’ and selected by Shakespeare as the setting for ‘The Tempest’, Corfu retains evidence of cultural heritage from each of its past rulers - Byzantium, Venice, France, Russia and Great Britain. Our guided tour will include the famous Byzantine Monastery of the Virgin at Paleokastritsa which is still inhabited by a community of monks. The small museum houses some priceless Byzantine icons. Spend some time in the serene monastery gardens that afford a splendid view over the turquoise waters of the bay. Continue to Mon Repos Palace, the summer residence of the British Governors of Corfu which now houses a museum including many Ionian treasures and is surrounded by a large park. Return to the ship for lunch and this afternoon will be free to explore Corfu Town with its idyllic pastel coloured Venetian mansions and fine museums.
Day 3 Preveza.
Sail to the port of Preveza from where we head for the little known ancient city of Nikopolis, one of the largest and most important sites in the whole of Greece. Built by the Roman Emperor Octavianus Augustus following his victory at Aktiun in 31 BC over Antony and Cleopatra, inside its extensive walls are the Odeum, the Theatre, the Nymphaeum and the monument to Augustus. Later, the city flourished in the early Christian period as the seat of the archbishop of old Epiros, but earthquakes and invading Goths and Vandals led to its demise. Return to the ship for lunch and the afternoon is free to explore this pretty, yacht lined harbour town.
Day 4 Argostoli, Kefalonia.
Arrive today into Kefalonia, the largest of the Ionian Islands. From our berth in Argostoli we have a choice of excursions. A half day tour will drive to the famous lighthouse of Agioi Theodori, the remarkable Venetian castle of Saint George and the 16th century Monastery of Agios Gerasimos. St Gerasimos is the patron saint of Kefalonia, and his relic is kept in the monastery, in a silver urn. Near to the monastery we find the Robala vineyards. Wines have been grown here since the 12th century and we will learn about the processes and enjoy a tasting before we return to the ship. In the afternoon you are free to explore the town of Argostoli. Alternatively, a full day tour will drive to the north of the island passing the famous Myrtos beach as we drive to the village of Assos. With just 100 residents it is one of the most charming spots on the island. Built on a small peninsula the town is dominated by the ruins of a 16th century Venetian castle. After time to wander the streets viewing the traditional architecture, pretty harbour and pebbled beaches we continue to the small port of Fiskardo which curves serenely beside coral-blue waters, gazing out towards Ithaki. Thanks to its colourful crop of Venetian villas, spared from earthquake damage because they rest on a sturdy bed of flat rock, Fiskardo is home to upscale restaurants built around the small harbour where yachts jostle for space to dock. After lunch in the port and some free time to explore we return to the MS Monet.
Day 5 Katakolon.
The port of Katakolon will be our base today for our excursion to Olympia. Pastoral and lush, Olympia’s plentiful ruins are shaded by Aleppo pines and olive trees. The fame of Olympia rests upon the Olympic Games. During the celebrations that accompanied the Games, competitors, while not forgetting that they were Athenians, Spartans or from other city states, remembered that they were Greeks and regarded an Olympic victory as the highest honour. We will see the gymnasium, the stadium and the palestra or wrestling school. We will also explore the Altis, or sacred precinct of Zeus, which houses structures including the Temple of Zeus, one of the largest temples on the Greek mainland and the Archaeological Museum which houses some fine sculptures and artefacts from the site. After our visit you may choose to return to the MS Monet for lunch and an afternoon at leisure in Katakolon or stay in Olympia to explore further independently.
Day 6 Pylos.
This morning we will call into the home of Nestor, the wise king of Pylos who fought for the Greeks at Troy and advised Odysseus’s son, Telemachus, on how best to deal with the evil suitors chasing his mother, Penelope. From our berth in Navarino Bay, we will drive through the enchanting countryside to Methoni, one of the most impressive Medieval fortresses in Greece. The Venetians built Methoni on the Ionian Sea and Koroni on the Gulf of Messenia in the 13th century to safeguard their newly acquired Greek Empire. Also visit the castle of Neokastro which today houses the Centre for Underwater Archaeological Studies. Enjoy lunch on board and an afternoon at leisure to explore Pylos independently. For those interested in learning more about King Nestor we will arrange an afternoon tour of his palace situated a short distance from Pylos and considered one of the best preserved of the Mycenean Palaces in Greece.
Day 7 Gythio & Monemvasia.
Arrive in picturesque Gythio this morning and board our coach heading east towards magical Monemvasia. A massive rock rises dramatically out of the sea and on top there is a fortress. However, the real attraction is the Medieval town with its narrow cobbled streets and winding stairways which lead to a warren of stone houses with walled gardens and courtyards, and the main square dominated by an old cannon and the cathedral. On a walking tour we will visit the town castle, followed by a short transfer to Liotrivi mansion. The estate was cultivated by the family of Eleftherios Ritsos (the father of Greek poet Yiannis Ritsos), and it was used as a summer house by the poet's family. Get to sample the local specialities during an olive oil tasting followed by a buffet lunch of local products and wines. Transfer back to the ship for a free afternoon in Gythio.
Day 8 Nafplio.
Looking out across the translucent water of the bay towards the Arcadian Mountains, Nafplio’s sheltered location below a rocky headland and large natural fortress crowned by a Venetian castle is perhaps unrivalled in Greece. After a relaxing morning at sea and lunch on board, we will head to the famous citadel of Mycenae which is located high above the confluence of two boulder-strewn ravines and accessed by way of the Lion Gate. Once inside the gate, we will explore the Royal Palace, the shaft graves and the remains of the city walls. An archaeological briefing within the Treasury of Atreus (also known as the Tomb of Agamemnon) will add to our understanding and appreciation of the sights. We moor in Nafplio tonight, for anyone for anyone who wishes to take an after-dinner stroll.
Day 9 Nafplio.
After breakfast we depart on a tour to one of the most renowned of Greece’s ancient sites. Situated on the slopes of a beautiful wooded valley, Epidaurus was known throughout the Hellenic world for its unique medical facilities and healing treatments. Dedicated to Asclepius, the god of healing, the city was filled with curative spas and baths and only priests had access to certain secret rites. Most of the ruins of Epidaurus have been reduced to their foundations, with the exception of the astonishing theatre. Still used for special performances, the theatre is in an admirable state of preservation. Return to the ship for lunch and the afternoon is at leisure in Nafplio to wander the twisting labyrinthine streets and admire the Venetian and Turkish architecture of this charming town.
Day 10 Athens to London.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London.
Dates and Prices
3 to 12 October 2025 | ||
---|---|---|
Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
D Twin/Double with portholes on Camille/Parisien Deck | £4495 | £4295 |
C Twin/Double with windows on Parisien/Lumiere Deck | £4795 | £4595 |
B Superior Double with windows on Lumiere Deck | £5095 | £4895 |
A Deluxe Double with windows on Lumiere Deck | £5495 | £5295 |
D Twin/Double with portholes on Camille/Parisien Deck for sole use | £5695 | £5495 |
27 April to 6 May 2026 | ||
---|---|---|
Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
D Twin/Double with portholes on Camille/Parisien Deck | £4795 | £4595 |
C Twin/Double with windows on Parisien/Lumiere Deck | £5095 | £4895 |
B Superior Double with windows on Lumiere Deck | £5395 | £5195 |
A Deluxe Double with windows on Lumiere Deck | £5795 | £5595 |
D Twin/Double with portholes on Camille/Parisien Deck for sole use | £5995 | £5795 |
Tour Reference Code: SCMO031025/SCMO270426
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Nine nights aboard the MS Monet on a full board basis • House wine, beer & soft drinks with lunch & dinner • Noble Caledonia onboard team • Shore excursions • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
Monet
We are delighted to have chartered the MS Monet, a 220 foot motor yacht accommodating a maximum of 50 guests. Originally built in 1970, MS Monet was converted and launched as a passenger ship in 1998, fully renovated in 2016 and upgraded again in 2018. If you find large resort style vessels accommodating many thousands of passengers attractive then of course this isn’t the vessel for you. However, if you prefer an informal and warm atmosphere more akin to a private yacht combined with an itinerary dedicated to both discovery and relaxation then you need look no further.
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Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000