Athens - Jewels of the Cyclades Cruise

Duration: 11 days / 10 nights
Kolona Beach in Kythnos

The cruise of your dreams awaits you! Combine a trip to the historic city of Athens with a cruise around the Aegean islands and get the best of both worlds with this incredible opportunity. After you've had your fill of ancient monuments, museums and contemporary art in the capital, via the meticulously planned half day city tour, you will embark upon a jewel of a journey with the Jewels of the Cyclades cruise. First stop is the small island of Poros where you will get a taste of the quiet life in a hidden gem of the Saronic Gulf which serves as a preferred destination by locals. Then comes a special treat as you will stop for a swim in the uninhabited island of Polyegos, a place very few people have ever set foot on. Back on the less-traveled trail with Folegandros, a picturesque island on the Southwest Cyclades. Natural beauty and local delicacies set the scene in a tranquil environment that has a surprisingly calming effect on most visitors. Anchors aweigh once more, this time for one of the most popular Greek destinations and for good reason. You will be welcomed to Santorini, home of exquisite local wines, magnificent beaches laid with volcanic pebbles and of course a stunning golden sunset compared to no other.

A more traditional view of Greece will follow, with Paros. After a quick swim at Antiparos (Paros' sister island), the Cycladic heaven of white and blue houses, sandy beaches and fishing taverns will be your base for a couple of days. Your worries wash away in view of the calm Aegean blue that extends as far as the eye can see. Departing from Paros means the start of a whole different experience as two worlds are about to clash! The historic island of Delos is basically one big testament to the ancient Greek civilization and your visit there will feel like you suddenly find yourselves in 3000BC, so better pack some sandals. From the old to the new, and to an island with world renowned nightlife and a taste for the luxurious. Mykonos will dazzle you with bars, clubs and restaurants of the highest caliber in the midst of a traditionally Cycladic environment. Entertainment is to be found in every nook and cranny of the cosmopolitan island so enjoy yourselves away!

While nursing a hangover after a crazy night, you will arrive to Syros, one of the greenest islands in the Aegean. Try the local cuisine and take a swim in one of the island's isolated beaches because there is only one short stop left on this wonderful journey before you return to Athens. Kythnos will signal off the conclusion of this majestic experience and give you the chance to see folklore art at its finest. As you approach the port of Zea, one thing is certain: when you look back on this vacation you will be mesmerized by how much diversity is packed in such a small country and congratulate yourself for making the decision to join this cruise.  

Arrival at Athens:  Every Wednesday (Apr-Oct)

  • 3 nights hotel accommodation in Athens
  • Athens half day city tour including Acropolis Museum (entrance fees included)
  • 7-Day Cruise ‘Jewels of the Cyclades’ on motor sailors Galileo or Panorama by Variety Cruises including:
  • English speaking cruise escort.
    Use of fishing & snorkeling equipment, subject to availability.
    Meals: Buffet breakfast and 1 meal per day including a Welcome Cocktail, a Greek night evening, fun BBQ (weather permitting) & Captain’s dinner.
  • All transfers as per itinerary
  • VAT for all services
  • Total meals: 10 Breakfasts, 7 meals during cruise

Not included:

  • International airfare
  • Personal expenses
  • Port Taxes
  • Drinks & beverages (except those mentioned above)
  • Shore excursions on the islands or other land arrangements. Shore excursions are proposed and arranged on board by the tour leaders.
  • Laundry, Spa (where applicable), Boutique items, Medical expenses, Expenditures incurred ashore and Wi-Fi (available at a charge). 
  • Customary tips & gratuities
  • Stayover hotel tax (to be paid directly to the hotel)
  • VISA expenses (if applicable)

Remark for the cruise: Gratuities are optional but as a rule satisfied clients are expected to give to the captain, at the end of the cruise, approximately 13,00-15,00 Euros per person per day for distribution among all crew members.

Optional: Private Athens sightseeing tour can be offered at additional cost

  • Wednesday: Arrival in Athens
    On arrival our representative will be waiting to welcome you to Athens and answer any questions you may have. Afterwards your driver will take you to your selected hotel and then you can begin exploring the city on your own pace.
    Overnight: Athens
    Meals: -
     
  • Thursday: Athens Half Day Sightseeing Tour
    After breakfast we will meet you at your hotel and start the morning Athens sightseeing tour. An essential part of any visit to Athens, this tour will take you to the most important landmarks of the Greek capital, culminating in the historic Acropolis and its magnificent museum. An amalgamation of culture, history and philosophy from both antiquity and the modern era. After witnessing history come alive you will have the afternoon at leisure for some well-earned rest.
    Overnight: Athens
    Meals: Breakfast
     
  • Friday: Embark on Cruise
    Early Afternoon transfer from your hotel to the port for embarkation on your cruise ship at Marina Zea in Athens, between 2-3 pm. Enjoy a welcome drink and meet your crew and fellow passengers. Sail for Poros for a short 3 hours visit, before setting sail for the picturesque and uninhabited island of Poliegos.
    Overnight: On board
    Meals: Breakfast, 1 meal on board
     
  • Saturday: Visit to Poliegos & Folegandros
    Morning arrival in Poliegos, a very small island known for its amazing beaches. Morning swim stop followed by a BBQ on deck. Afternoon sailing to Folegandros, a true hidden gem of the Aegean Sea. Stroll down the amazing Upper city and maybe taste some local delicacies at a traditional Greek tavern.
    Overnight: On board
    Meals: Breakfast, 1 meal on board
     
  • Sunday: Experience Santorini
    Early in the morning depart for Santorini. Morning arrival at Santorini (occasionally at anchor) to explore its unique capital Fira. Optional Excursion to the Akrotiri excavations and a tour of the villages including the small beautiful village of Oia known for its breathtaking view over the caldera.
    Overnight: On board
    Meals: Breakfast, 1 meal on board
     
  • Monday: Visit Antiparos & Paros
    In the morning you will enjoy a swim stop in an enchanting bay of Antiparos. Early noon arrival in Paros. Visit Parikia and the quaint village of Naoussa. Time to have a fun night and show us your dancing skills during our famous Greek Night.
    Overnight: On board
    Meals: Breakfast, 1 meal on board
     
  • Tuesday: Explore Delos & Mykonos
    Optional morning tour to the unique archaeological site of Delos, antiquity’s most sacred island. Later on, we stop at one of Mykonos’ beautiful bays for swimming off the ship before sailing into the port of Mykonos. The island of the jet setters is yours to explore and the night is young.
    Overnight: On board
    Meals: Breakfast, 1 meal on board
     
  • Wednesday: Visit Syros
    After a morning swim we will arrive at Syros, the capital of the Cycladic islands where you can enjoy one of its beautiful sandy beaches or a walk through town where you will be able to enjoy the unique architecture of the island.
    Overnight: On board
    Meals: Breakfast, 1 meal on board
     
  • Thursday: Visit Kythnos & Cape Sounio
    In the morning we will arrive at Kythnos where you will enjoy a swim in Kolones bay and will then set sail for Marina Zea where we will arrive in the late afternoon via Cape Sounion, the temple of Poseidon. Captain’s Farewell Dinner and overnight in Marina Zea.
    Overnight: On board
    Meals: Breakfast, 1 meal on board
     
  • Friday: Return to Athens
    Disembarkation at around 8-9 am after breakfast and transfer to your selected hotel in Athens. Afternoon at leisure to explore Athens in any way you please.
    Overnight: Athens
    Meals: Breakfast
     
  • Saturday: Departure from Athens
    Transfer from your hotel in Athens to the airport by your personal driver for your return flight home.
    Overnight: -
    Meals: Breakfast

Remark: Cruise itinerary can be changed at the discretion of the cruise company (Variety Cruises) and of the vessel's Captain in case of adverse weather conditions - winds of 6 / 7 Beaufort or more depending on the vessel - on port authorities not allowing a vessel to leave port or in case of other extraordinary conditions. Such itinerary changes do not entitle automatically passengers to any refunds but Variety Cruises guarantees that passengers are disembarked at the advertised port of disembarkation on time for their flights.

  • Wednesday: Arrival in Athens
    On arrival our representative will be waiting to welcome you to Athens and answer any questions you may have. Afterwards your driver will take you to your selected hotel and then you can begin exploring the city on your own pace.
    Overnight: Athens
    Meals: -
     
  • Thursday: Athens Half Day Sightseeing Tour
    After breakfast we will meet you at your hotel and start the morning Athens sightseeing tour. An essential part of any visit to Athens, this tour will take you to the most important landmarks of the Greek capital, culminating in the historic Acropolis and its magnificent museum. An amalgamation of culture, history and philosophy from both antiquity and the modern era. After witnessing history come alive you will have the afternoon at leisure for some well-earned rest.
    Overnight: Athens
    Meals: Breakfast
     
  • Friday: Embark on Cruise
    Early Afternoon transfer from your hotel to the port for embarkation on your cruise ship at Marina Zea in Athens, between 2-3 pm. Enjoy a welcome drink and meet your crew and fellow passengers. Sail for Poros for a short 3 hours visit, before setting sail for the picturesque and uninhabited island of Poliegos.
    Overnight: On board
    Meals: Breakfast, 1 meal on board
     
  • Saturday: Visit to Poliegos & Folegandros
    Morning arrival in Poliegos, a very small island known for its amazing beaches. Morning swim stop followed by a BBQ on deck. Afternoon sailing to Folegandros, a true hidden gem of the Aegean Sea. Stroll down the amazing Upper city and maybe taste some local delicacies at a traditional Greek tavern.
    Overnight: On board
    Meals: Breakfast, 1 meal on board
     
  • Sunday: Experience Santorini
    Early in the morning depart for Santorini. Morning arrival at Santorini (occasionally at anchor) to explore its unique capital Fira. Optional Excursion to the Akrotiri excavations and a tour of the villages including the small beautiful village of Oia known for its breathtaking view over the caldera.
    Overnight: On board
    Meals: Breakfast, 1 meal on board
     
  • Monday: Visit Antiparos & Paros
    In the morning you will enjoy a swim stop in an enchanting bay of Antiparos. Early noon arrival in Paros. Visit Parikia and the quaint village of Naoussa. Time to have a fun night and show us your dancing skills during our famous Greek Night.
    Overnight: On board
    Meals: Breakfast, 1 meal on board
     
  • Tuesday: Explore Delos & Mykonos
    Optional morning tour to the unique archaeological site of Delos, antiquity’s most sacred island. Later on, we stop at one of Mykonos’ beautiful bays for swimming off the ship before sailing into the port of Mykonos. The island of the jet setters is yours to explore and the night is young.
    Overnight: On board
    Meals: Breakfast, 1 meal on board
     
  • Wednesday: Visit Syros
    After a morning swim we will arrive at Syros, the capital of the Cycladic islands where you can enjoy one of its beautiful sandy beaches or a walk through town where you will be able to enjoy the unique architecture of the island.
    Overnight: On board
    Meals: Breakfast, 1 meal on board
     
  • Thursday: Visit Kythnos & Cape Sounio
    In the morning we will arrive at Kythnos where you will enjoy a swim in Kolones bay and will then set sail for Marina Zea where we will arrive in the late afternoon via Cape Sounion, the temple of Poseidon. Captain’s Farewell Dinner and overnight in Marina Zea.
    Overnight: On board
    Meals: Breakfast, 1 meal on board
     
  • Friday: Return to Athens
    Disembarkation at around 8-9 am after breakfast and transfer to your selected hotel in Athens. Afternoon at leisure to explore Athens in any way you please.
    Overnight: Athens
    Meals: Breakfast
     
  • Saturday: Departure from Athens
    Transfer from your hotel in Athens to the airport by your personal driver for your return flight home.
    Overnight: -
    Meals: Breakfast

Remark: Cruise itinerary can be changed at the discretion of the cruise company (Variety Cruises) and of the vessel's Captain in case of adverse weather conditions - winds of 6 / 7 Beaufort or more depending on the vessel - on port authorities not allowing a vessel to leave port or in case of other extraordinary conditions. Such itinerary changes do not entitle automatically passengers to any refunds but Variety Cruises guarantees that passengers are disembarked at the advertised port of disembarkation on time for their flights.

  • To ensure the safety of our guests, all transfers will be private and in line with health protocols.
  • The hotels included in our vacation programs comply with the mandatory health and safety protocols instituted by the Greek National Health Organization in collaboration with the Greek Government.
  • Please note that the tour dates, cruise itinerary, ports of call, sailing dates and vessel are subject to change at any moment, without prior notice. Please consult our agents for further information.

Itineraries can be changed at the discretion of  Cruises and of the Vessel's Captain in case of adverse weather conditions - winds of 6/7 beaufort or more depending on the vessel- on port authorities not allowing a vessel to leave port or in case of other extraordinary conditions. Such itinerary changes do not entitle automatically passengers to any refunds but guarantees that passengers are disembarked at the advertised port of disembarkation on time for their flights.

Rates available of request!