Greek Islands Sailing Adventure (Athens to Kos)

Itinerary

Segment 1: Northern Cyclades - Athens to Mykonos

Possible Island stops include: Andros, Syros, Kea, Naxos, Paros, Kythnos, Mykonos.ATHENSAthens is the capital of Greece, the founding city of the Olympic games, and a city of culture, science and commerce. From the colourful markets, to the ancient monuments, to the hustle and bustle of Plateia Syntagmatos (Constitution Square), Athens is rich with history and an important influence on the development of Western civilization. Named afterthe goddess of wisdom Athena, Athens encircles eight hills within its borders. The most prominent of these, the Acropolis, stands as the ultimate architectural and artistic expression of the ancient Athenian spirit. Athens is a growing city, engulfing its neighbouring suburbs all the way to Piraeus, the city's port and your gateway to the Greek isles.MYKONOSLegendary both in ancient and modern times, Mykonos is one of the best-known Greek islands, and provides ample entertainment for history and party buffs alike. Just a short boat ride away from the main port lies Delos, legendary birthplace of Apollo and home of the Gods. As the most sacred island in the Aegean for ancient Greeks, Delos gave name to the Cyclades – that is, the islands encircling (kyklos) Delos. Mykonos town, as typical a whitewashed Greek island town can be, has long been famous for its nightlife, with bars and clubs filled with the beautiful of Europe rocking till dawn every night. And during the days, a short bus and boat ride takes you to some of the best—and craziest—beaches in all of Europe.

Segment 2: Southern Cyclades - Mykonos to Santorini

Possible Island stops include: Naxos, Antiparos, Antiparos, Ios, Sifnos, Kimolos, Milos, Sikinos, Folegandros, Thirasia, Santorini.CYCLADES ISLANDSLocated in the central and southern part of the Aegean Sea, there are 39 islands in the Cyclades of which 24 are inhabited. On these small islands where the past meets the present, one can find both peace and tranquility and colourful nightlife. The white heat of July and August is often relieved by the meltemi, a strong northerly wind that sweeps across the eastern coast of mainland Greece and the Cyclades. Narrow paths full of flowers, whitewashed houses, blue windows and white churches under the dazzling sun and complimented by golden beaches: this is one of those magical places where the reality outstrips the postcards.SANTORINIOfficially known as Thira, Santorini is the southernmost island of the Cyclades, and is regarded by some as the most beautiful of the Greek Islands. Formed by a violent volcanic eruption, the ring-shaped island has a stunning caldera lined with high cliffs—easy to appreciate when arriving by boat. Fira, the main town, sits perched on the edge of the caldera with breathtaking views of multi-coloured cliffs, sugar-cube architecture and great shopping!

Segment 3: Dodecanese Islands - Santorini to Kos

Possible stops include: Amorgos, Kinaros & Levitha, Leros, Kalimnos, Sirna, Astypalea, Tilos, Halki, Nisyros, Kos.DODECANESE ISLANDSThe Dodecanese (Twelve Islands or Dodekanes) is the most southerly group of islands in the Southern Sporades, lying off the southwest coast of Asia Minor. It includes 14 larger islands together with some 40 smaller islets and rocks. With the exception of Rhodes, which belongs culturally to Greece but geologically to the mainland of Anatolia, the islands are arid and largely barren. Their inhabitants live by farming, sponge fishing (the Dodecanese forms the base of the Greek sponge-fishing fleet), and increasingly, tourism. Windsurfing, water-skiing, snorkelling, diving and swimming are popular activities in the Dodecanese.KOSHome to the Greek father of medicine Hypocrites, Kos is an island full of contrasts, with a mix of both Greek and Turkish architecture and culture. Rich in history, Kos is home to many ancient ruins, including Asklipion, a healing centre and medical school that followed the teachings of Hypocrites. Away from the lively main town you will find many secluded beaches and quaint villages. Kos is a part of the Dodecanese island group and an ideal gateway for excursions to other islands or Turkey. An exciting possible excursion is the 4-hour hydrofoil to Rhodes.According to ancient mythology, the sun god Helios chose Rhodes as his bride and bestowed light, warmth and vegetation on her. The blessing seems to have paid off and Rhodes is one of the most pleasant islands to visit. The old town with its massive walls is one of the finest surviving examples of medieval fortification. Don't miss the Acropolis of Lindos, Rhodes’ most important ancient city.Please note: While it is our intention to adhere to the route described above, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. On Day 1 of your tour you will be advised of any amendments.