The Cyclades literally mean 'islands in a circle', as they surround the sacred island of Delos, the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. The Cyclades are characterized by deep blue seas, architecture in white and blue, and barren landscapes dotted with isolated chapels.
The most famous island group in the Aegean Sea, with its principal islands being Amorgos, Andros, Antiparos, Delos, Ios, Kea, Kimolos, Kythnos, Milos, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, Santorini, Serifos, Sikinos, Sifnos, Syros, Tinos, and Folegandros. The "Small Cyclades" consist of Donousa, Irakleia, Koufonisia, and Schinousa.
Mykonos, Paros, and Santorini are favorite destinations for the jet set, known for clubbing and spectacular sunsets.
Day 1: Kea & Syros
Depart from Athens towards Poles Beach on the island of Kea (also known as Tzia). Here, you can enjoy a refreshing swim and/or visit the ancient site of Karthea.
The island gained modern-world fame when Titanic's sister ship Britannic was sunk here in 1916. The wreck remains, drawing constant activity.
Later in the day, continue the cruise to the port of Syros, where we'll spend the night. In Ermoupolis, the capital, abundant evidence of its glorious past as an important trade and industrial center is evident.
Tip: Climb the stairs of St. George's Hill and visit the medieval quarter of the Catholic community with its fortress-like cathedral.. For cheese enthusiasts... Try the spicy cheese "San Mihalis" with protected designation of origin.
Day 2: Mykonos
After a delightful breakfast, we continue our cruise to Mykonos... the island of the wind... one of the world's most famous cosmopolitan destinations.
Tip: Stroll around the capital (Hóra) in the narrow marble streets, whitewashed houses with colorful doors and window frames, bougainvillea trees in purple bloom, and hidden churches... the glamorous Matoyanni street with brand stores, charming cafes, and stylish restaurants.
Enjoy the atmosphere along the vibrant waterfront at one of the most beautiful spots, "Little Venice," and admire the view of the traditional windmills on the hill above the town. Get a photo with Mykonos's official mascot, a pelican! The tradition of wandering pelicans along the waterfront dates back to the 1950s.
Discover the fantastic sun-drenched beaches Paradise, Super Paradise, Platis Gialos, some of the most exciting party venues in the Mediterranean. Psarou has a luxurious club scene and many upscale boutiques. Here, being seen is more important than what you see, although people-watching is unparalleled.
Ornos Beach is the most family-friendly choice on the island.
Day 3: Delos & Paros
After a relaxing morning, depart for the island of Delos to visit the ancient ruins.
This sacred island, located a few kilometers from Mykonos, is the birthplace of Apollo, the god of music, and his sister Artemis, the goddess of hunting.
In ancient times, it was a religious center for all of Greece. Today, Delos is uninhabited and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Then, onward to the island of Rinia for a refreshing swim, followed by a late afternoon sail to the port of Naousa on the island of Paros.
PAROS
Already famous in antiquity for its fine marble and still quarried today. Wander through the beautiful traditional villages such as Naoussa, with the ruins of a Venetian fortress, and Lefkes, located at the highest point of the island, with its whitewashed sugar houses, cobblestone streets, and churches with blue domes.
Visit Kolymbithres Beach with its impressive white rock formations, and for windsurfers and kite surfers, a visit to the most famous and ideal Golden Beach and New Golden Beach is a must! Also, the Pounda area is a popular kite surfing center.
Tip: Treat yourself to a free facial treatment with clay found on the rocks on the north side of the unique Kalogeros Beach.
Day 4: Antiparos & Santorini
The next day, a visit to Santorini is scheduled. En route, make a stop at Anti-Paros and/or Maganari Beach on the island of Ios with its fascinating views of the sea horizon.
Anti-Paros is located just next to Paros and is known for its many sandy beaches with crystal clear water. At the south end lies an impressive cave with Europe's oldest stalagmite!
SANTORINI
A jewel in the Aegean Sea... a top destination famous for its impressive caldera, volcano, and romantic sunsets.
The last major eruption, which occurred 3600 years ago, changed the island's circular shape and created the famous caldera. The volcano is still active and probably the only volcano in the world with a crater lying in the sea. It is an area of exceptional natural beauty. The villages of Fira, Oia, Imerovigli, and Firostefani, the center of social life, entertainment, and shopping, are perched high above a cliff and offer breathtaking views of the volcano and the Aegean Sea.
Enjoy the deep blue waters and the beaches with white, red, or black sand or volcanic pebbles.
Tip: The island is a true culinary paradise. Try the famous traditional products such as fava, capers, cherry tomatoes, and book a wine tasting at one of the renowned wineries producing exceptional wines from grapes grown in volcanic soil.
Day 5: Folegandros The next morning, depart from Santorini and sail towards the island of Folegandros. After a busy day on Santorini, it's time to relax and indulge a bit more with the crew's pampering. Later in the day, sail towards the port of Folegandros.
Tip: Ask your crew to arrange a wellness treatment for one of the days on board. We recommend indicating this on your preference list, which you should submit a few weeks before departure.
Folegandros is named after the son of King Minos and is one of the most impressive islands in the Cyclades with its traditional architecture, pebble beaches lined with tamarisk trees, crystal-clear blue water, and steep cliffs.
Chrysospiliá is a natural monument with impressive stalactites and stalagmites. The cave is unique worldwide for the ancient male Greek names written on the walls and roof, dating back to the 4th century BC.
Day 6 Milos Depart from the island of Folegandros towards the uninhabited island of Poliaigos for a swim in the most beautiful turquoise water. Later in the day, continue sailing to one of my favorite islands, Milos.
Especially famous for the statue of Venus de Milo (Aphrodite), discovered on the island and now displayed in the Louvre, Paris.
Due to volcanic activity in ancient times, the lunar landscape with its unique colors and geological formations is truly impressive. The white rocky landscape of Sarakiniko and Kleftiko with rocks emerging from the sea. Diving enthusiasts will find a paradise in the underwater caves and crystal-clear water.
Also famous for its immense mineral wealth and mining history, as well as the small colorful seaside houses used by fishermen in winter as shelters for their boats.
Tip: At Sarakiniko, you can take the most beautiful photo shoots, and for those who love culture, a visit to the early Christian catacombs and the mining museum, where 11,000 years of mining history is exhibited, is worthwhile.
Day 7: Sifnos & Serifos
The next day, sail towards Sifnos, one of Perseus's favorite islands!
Sifnos is the birthplace of famous poets and is known for its 227 churches scattered around the island. Also called the island of flavors with a rich tradition in gastronomy.
Tip: Ask us to make a reservation for lunch at one of Sifnos's most famous restaurants, visited by many celebrities such as Jeff Bezos, Tom Hanks, and Julia Roberts. Highly recommended!
Then, sail on to Serifos, a typical Cycladic island with white villages, peaceful harbors, golden beaches, barren hills, and pristine landscapes that have preserved their traditional character. Choose from the 72 fantastic beaches, some organized, others secluded, go diving in the ancient mines or in the World War II wreck.
Sadly, the end of our cruise is almost here, and the next morning, we sail back to Athens...
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