Expedition Details
Sprinkled across the Aegean Sea and steeped in ancient mythology, the Cyclades are the some of the most spectacular of Greece's many isles. Here, fishing boats cast colorful reflections in azure waters, whitewashed villages cascade down lavender-dusted slopes, and craggy headlands are punctuated by ancient ruins. Board the sail-assisted motor yacht S.V. Panorama and voyage to Santoríni and Míkonos, the more rugged Náxos, and the mystical isle of Delos.
Trip Highlights
- Explore the magnificent ruins in the ancient sanctuary of Delos, birthplace of Apollo and Artemis.
- Ride a donkey or cable car down a cliffside to the harbor on beautiful Santoríni.
- Soak up the lively contemporary culture of age-old Cycladic villages on the jewel-like isle of Sífnos.
- Delve into the classical wonders of Athens on an optional pre-trip extension.
Itinerary - 9 Days
Days 1 & 2 — U.S./Athens, Greece/Piraeus/Cape Soúnion
Depart on an overnight flight to Athens. After time at leisure to explore the city, transfer to Piraeus and settle into the Panorama. After a few hours at sea, drop anchor under the headland of Cape Soúnion and take a late afternoon swim. Catch the sunset on the Temple of Poseidon, perched high above on cliffs overlooking the cape.
(L,D)
Day 3 — At Sea/Sífnos
This morning, sail into the Cyclades, stopping for a swim before we dock at Sífnos. Distinguished for its pottery and rugged beauty, Sífnos features stunning Cycladic harbor villages tucked within its rocky coast. Spend the afternoon exploring the island or relaxing on the beach.
(B,L,D)
Day 4 — At Sea/Folégandros
Cruise by the seldom-visited island group around Mílos, stopping for a late morning swim at an isolated beach. After lunch, sail to lovely Folégandros and dock for the night. Here, relax at a waterfront taverna or stroll through the whitewashed cliff-top town of Hora.
(B,L,D)
Day 5 — Santoríni
Incomparable Santoríni is an island archipelago formed from a single volcanic cone that erupted in the second millennium B.C., burying what might have been the civilization of Atlantis. Sail into the caldera, and drive through windswept vineyards to the beautiful town of Oía. Set high on a cliff, Oía affords unrivaled views of the caldera below. After lunch, ride a donkey or a cable car down the cliff side back to the boat.
(B,L,D)
Day 6 — Exploring the Cyclades
Today we'll adapt to the wind and sea conditions and follow our sense of curiosity and adventure. These are the home waters for Panorama and her crew, and we will explore the islands by Zodiac to find isolated coves and hidden seaside hamlets.
(B,L,D)
Day 7 — Náxos/Míkonos
Fertile Náxos is the largest of the Cyclades and renowned in mythology as the island where Theseus abandoned Ariadne after she told him the secrets of the Cretan labyrinth. Náxos was also a center of Cycladic art, which blossomed 5,000 years ago. Drive to Apíranthos, one of the island's oldest villages, where houses are built of local stone and narrow, sloping streets are paved in marble and lined with charming tavernas. Return to the main port for lunch on board or in town, and take a swim at the adjacent beach. Cruise north to Míkonos and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to relax on the beaches, wander amid windmills and whitewashed architecture, or soak up the atmosphere along the lively waterfront.
(B,L,D)
Day 8 — Delos/At Sea
The tiny archaeological gem of Delos is the birthplace of the twin gods Artemis, goddess of animals and the hunt; and Apollo, god of healing, reason, and light. Spend the morning exploring the islet's incredible ruins, including the Avenue of the Lions and the exquisite Sanctuary of Apollo. We'll spend a final afternoon at sea as we return to Athens.
(B,L,D)
Day 9 — Piraeus/Athens/U.S.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for your return flight.
(B)
Optional Extensions
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Stella Galani
A native of Athens, Stella Galani is a Greek scholar with extensive experience leading groups through her native country and revealing the rich history and culture of her homeland. Stella earned a master's degree in cultural anthropology from SUNY Albany and is completing her doctorate degree in anthropology at University College in London. Having traveled extensively throughout Greece, Stella looks forward to bringing the ancient sites and civilizations of her country to life for travelers.
Stella will join the following departure:
Jun 24 - Jul 02, 2010
This trip is offered in association with Lindblad Expeditions.
