A well-balanced blend of major places of interest and off-the-beaten track destinations, the route around Crete, the Peloponnese and beyond is simply one of a kind.
Crete, the centre of Europe’s first advanced civilization, the land of Zorba the Greek and syrtaki, an island with a unique cultural identity and a tapestry of wild natural beauty, iconic towns and villages, spectacular beaches and exquisite cuisine.
The Peloponnese, a mythic land of Gods and heroes and unsurpassed natural beauty. Sprinkled with cypress trees, olive groves, vineyards, beautiful sandy beaches and emerald-blue waters. Littered with Mycenaean palaces, Byzantine cities, Ottoman, Frankish and Venetian fortresses.
Kythira, a gem of an island, the epitome of untouched beauty with its Medieval architecture, secluded beaches, wonderful natural setting, and friendly people.
This is a true traveler’s adventure.
Combine the Grecian Trails journey with the Divine Cyclades journey for a fully immersive experience of Greece.
Cruise dates: Between July 31st – 30th October 2021
Departing Saturday
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Relaxing & Fun:
Swimming, snorkeling, water sports, cocktail lounging, leisurely discovery walks, board games
Active:
Trekking the Samaria gorge, hiking up the “rock” of Monemvasia, scuba diving
Wellness & Fitness:
Yoga, pilates, meditation sessions, spa treatments, aquarobics, gym
Experiential:
Greek cooking class, traditional Cretan evening
Cultural:
Significant archaeological sites, Greece’s first Capital, Byzantine churches, monasteries, museums, Medieval towns and villages, oldest submerged city
Educational:
Photography walk, make a Greek “komboloi” workshop
Nature:
NATURA protected habitat, spectacular natural lagoon, one of the longest canyons in Europe
Embarkation at Marina Zeas between 14:00-15:00. Welcome onboard the Elysium and savour our signature cocktail during a smooth check-in. We set sail for the nearby Cape Sounion, home to the “Temple of Poseidon”, for your first refreshing dip in the Aegean waters. Perched at the edge of the cliff, the ancient sanctuary it is one of the most important monuments of the golden age of Athens. Dinner alfresco onboard, to experience the mesmerizing sunset. After dinner, lounge with music and drinks, while watching the flickering lights on the mainland and feel the soothing salty breeze on your face. Overnight at anchor.
Morning arrival at Crete’s picturesque town of Chania. Take an optional tour of the old town and port – a magnificent blend of Byzantine, Venetian, Ottoman, and classical Greek elements – or an excursion to the ancient city of Knossos. You may also opt for a guided hiking tour of the imposing Samaria gorge, one of Europe’s longest canyons. Trekking enthusiasts from all over the world flock to the island for the spectacular hike that will take you all the way to the crystalline waters of the Libyan Sea. Traditional Cretan evening with dances and dinner onboard the Elysium.
At daybreak, we set sail for the breathtaking Balos beach. Enjoy the morning swimming and snorkeling in this unspoiled natural paradise with milky blue waters, a shallow lagoon, pink sand and islets, an unmissable experience. Lunch en route to the peaceful island of Kythira, the birthplace of mythological goddess of beauty, Aphrodite. Discover this special island’s small bays, its nature and tranquility and the local friendly people.
Spend the morning exploring Pavlopetri, one of the oldest submerged cities in the world, off the coast of southern Laconia. Snorkeling over the UNESCO Bronze age city is an impressive addition to any true traveler’s journal. Upon request, we may also arrange a special permit for you to dive in the area. Just across Pavlopetri lies Elafonisos, a NATURA protected habitat, with sand hills and turquoise tropical waters. Swim ashore or let our tender take you to the beach. Lunch onboard the Elysium.
Late afternoon we arrive in the uniquely preserved medieval town of Monemvasia, meaning “the only entrance”. Walk its pebbled alleys and admire its fairytale-like beauty. Join our optional historical tour and hike up to the church of Hagia Sofia, one of the oldest Byzantine churches in Greece. The windswept panorama of the Aegean Sea from atop the cliff will mesmerize you. At midnight, we start our sail towards Nafplion, Greece’s first Capital after Greek Independence in the 1800s.
After breakfast set out to explore Nafplion and the surrounding area. Take an optional guided tour to the Ancient City of Mycenae and, upon your return, visit the many museums in Nafplion: the Archaeological Museum, the War Museum, former site of the first Military School in Greece or the Komboloi Museum, showcasing an impressive global collection of worry beads. Travel in the history of Greek komboloi and participate in an optional workshop to make your own. Enjoy a romantic evening at one of the most elegant cities in Greece.
Morning arrival at the beautiful, little known Ververouda beach, to spend the day snorkeling, sunbathing and enjoying the crystal-clear waters. Lunch onboard the Elysium. Afternoon departure for the cosmopolitan island of Spetses. Enjoy a leisurely a walk, go on a shopping spree around the island’s many chic boutiques, have a coffee at the old port or let us arrange for you an optional horse carriage cultural tour. At sunset, check out the island’s lively nightlife.
This morning we arrive at the coastal town of Ancient Epidaurus (Palaia Epidavros), known for centuries throughout the Mediterranean as the gateway to the healing Sanctuary of Asclepius, the ancient Greek God of Medicine. Optional excursion to the Epidavros Ancient Theatre, one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece.
In the afternoon we sail for Aegina, an island with a glorious historical past and home to the Ancient Temple of Athena Aphaia. Because of it’s special light, many artists have chosen Aegina as their base and inspiration for creativity. Take an optional photography walking tour and capture the island’s beauty and glorious sunset. Farewell dinner on board. Late night we set sail for our return journey.
Disembarkation at Marina Zeas after breakfast, until 10:00.