Join us aboard the MS Monet for a relaxing and informative voyage to some of the most idyllic islands in the Aegean. Setting sail from Athens, the cradle of Western civilisation, we will cruise through the turquoise waters of the Aegean on a journey through the playground of the Greek Gods, learning of the myths and legends that surround the enchanted islands. Some of the islands we have included are very difficult to access without relying on the local ferry network, and it is during our time on such islands that you will truly be able to appreciate the unique atmosphere and island life. When combined with the dramatic scenery and clear waters of the Aegean, it is evident why this region has inspired writers, poets and artists since the time of Homer.
Our custom-made itinerary focuses on many islands that the mega cruise ships cannot access and, in addition to our included guided excursions, there will be ample time at leisure for some independent exploration or to swim in the intensely blue Aegean from the local beaches. We have scheduled some daytime sailing so as to enjoy our time ashore in the cooler hours of the day as we wander through the whitewashed villages and picturesque harbours of some hidden Greek island gems such as Fourni, Lipsi, Halki, Kasos and Folegandros. There will also be some late departures from port and overnight moorings, allowing for the opportunity to enjoy the evening atmosphere of some delightful harbour towns. With a maximum of only 50 guests, our trips ashore will be a pleasure as we explore with local guides who will also join us on board for our cruise, adding immeasurably to our knowledge of the region.
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.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Athens, Greece.
Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to the MS Monet and embark. Enjoy welcome drinks and dinner as we sail this evening.
Day 2 Naxos & Syros.
Naxos offers a blend of ancient ruins, mountainous landscapes and sandy beaches. Across the harbour lies the ancient Portara, all that remains of an ancient temple built for Apollo and according to mythology where Theseus abandoned his love Ariadne after killing the Minotaur in Crete. After breakfast we can stroll through the narrow alleys to the old castle of Hora, built by an Italian adventurer in the 13th century, and walk past 14th century mansion houses, the cathedral and maybe visit the archaeological museum that provides a journey through Naxian history. Return to the MS Monet and sail to Syros over lunch. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon with a stroll in the town of Ermoupoli, the capital of the Cyclades. The prosperity of the island in the 19th and early 20th century created through commerce and shipping is reflected in the architecture with a beautiful square, town hall and theatre. We will sail late this evening allowing time for those who wish to take an after-dinner stroll.
Day 3 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 enjoy a drink whilst observing island life.
Day 4 Patmos, Greece.
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 the 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 the courtyard, admire the intricate pebbled laid floor, decorated arches and frescoes adorning the entrance to the chapel of Christodoulos. Return to the MS Monet 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. Over dinner we sail the short distance to Lipsi where we moor overnight.
Day 5 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, the tiny island of Lipsi is popular with yachts and has avoided the development of many surrounding islands. It is a wonderful place to spend a few hours walking among the whitewashed houses or 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 offering wonderful views from the ramparts to the harbour below and islands beyond. The Battle of Leros was a central event in the Second World War and we will also visit the War Museum and Commonwealth Cemetery before returning to the vessel.
Day 6 Nisyros & Symi.
Arrive this morning at the small island of Nisyros. From 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. Alternatively, maybe wander through the village, climb to the Monastery of Panagia Spiliani or visit the archaeological museum. We sail over lunch to Symi, a small, mountainous and much indented pretty island. The harbour of Gialos is particularly attractive and we have time to stroll through the colourful cobbled streets. The Simians were famous boat builders and are mentioned in the Illiad as sending boats to assist the siege of Troy but are better known today for their sponge diving. We will moor overnight for those wishing to take an after-dinner stroll.
Day 7 Halki.
Enjoy a few hours of free time in Gialos before we sail to the little-known island of Halki arriving in the port of Nimporio in the afternoon. The rest of the day is free to explore at your own pace through the maze of alleyways, see the picturesque houses, the church of Agios Nikolaos and the clock tower. Those feeling active may wish to walk to a local beach or climb to the old capital of Horio perched on a hill and where you can see the Castle of the Knights of St John and enjoy the wonderful views. We will sail late this evening allowing time for those who wish to take an after-dinner stroll.
Day 8 Kasos.
The southernmost island in the Dodecanese, the tiny island of Kasos is only accessible by a small ship such as ours. Known for the friendliness of the local people, we will spend the morning in the pretty harbour, see the Church of Aghios Spyridonas with its ornate bell tower and maybe try the local delicacies in one of the tavernas. There will also be the chance to swim at one of the picturesque beaches before we sail in the afternoon and spend the rest of the day at sea.
Day 9 Folegandros & Sifnos.
Today we return to the Cyclades and the island of Folegandros. Visit the clifftop capital of Chora, a wonderfully picturesque village with alleys lined with bougainvillaea and hibiscus and a dramatic seascape over an edge which drops some 700 feet directly into the Aegean. Return to the ship for lunch and a relaxing few hours at sea as we sail to Sifnos arriving in the early evening. This corner of the Cyclades is far from the well-trodden tracks of the big ships and you will be greeted by traditional white houses, picturesque churches and narrow lanes and alleys. Maybe take the opportunity to enjoy a post-dinner drink ashore as we will moor overnight.
Day 10 Sifnos.
A morning tour of Sifnos 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. After lunch we have some free time before we sail in the late afternoon.
Day 11 Athens to London.
Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for the return scheduled flight to London.
Dates and Prices
16 to 26 June 2027 | ||
---|---|---|
Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
D Twin/Double with portholes on Camille/Parisien Deck | £5295 | £4995 |
C Twin/Double with windows on Parisien/Lumiere Deck | £5695 | £5395 |
B Superior Double with windows on Lumiere Deck | £6195 | £5895 |
A Deluxe Double with windows on Lumiere Deck | £6795 | £6495 |
D Twin/Double with portholes on Camille/Parisien Deck for sole use | £6795 | £6495 |
Tour Reference Code: SCMO160627
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • 10 nights aboard the MS Monet on a full board basis • House wine, beer & soft drinks with lunch and dinner • Noble Caledonia onboard team • Shore excursions • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
Please be aware that our website does not display real-time availability. As a result, the categories and prices listed above are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please call us at 020 7752 0000 and speak with one of our experienced Travel Consultants.
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