Embark on an 8-day cruise aboard Le Ponant, Relais & Châteaux's inaugural sailing yacht, roundtrip Athens. From Lavrio port near Athens, sail to the Cyclades. Explore Tinos, a well-preserved island, and venture to Polyaigos, an uninhabited island with white cliffs overlooking the Aegean Sea. Enjoy strolls amid houses on Serifos. Heading southeast to the Peloponnese, discover Monemvasia's fortified peninsula resembling a stone ship. Sail towards Kythnos, a rugged terrain shaped by traditional agriculture. Spetses, known as "the island of jasmine," welcomes you with pine trees and offers tailored activities. Immerse in wild panoramas, away from crowds, and participate in kayaking, snorkeling, and paddle-boarding—a luxurious exploration of the beauty of the Mediterranean.
Highlights
Discover Kythnos and its exceptional landscapes, olive groves and beaches
Visit the fortified medieval village of Monemvasia
Serenity and authenticity await in the small island of Serifos
Discover the island of Polyaigos and enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking.
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
Near Athens, Lavrion is a peaceful port welcoming boats from around the world. The town has been known since ancient times for the silver-producing mines of Lavrion, which were major contributors to the wealth of Athens and to the Greek economy in the 20th century. Weather permitting, take a stroll through the town and discover the many vestiges of this industry that flourished until the 1980s: old Neoclassical-style constructions, industrial buildings, and worker houses. While at this port of call, also take the time to discover Athens and its acropolis, or Cape Sounion on which stands the magnificent temple of Poseidon.
At full sail, you will chart a course to Tinos, a wild island in the Cyclades where, according to mythology, Aiolos lived. The cerulean blue of the Aegean Sea reveals, in contrast, the pretty port with immaculate buildings. Called “the island of the Virgin”, this pilgrimage destination for Greek Orthodox Christians is also an intimate refuge where Athenians join their families for holidays. The magnificent landscapes of this unspoiled island are dotted with numerous dovecotes, each with finely crafted architecture. Here, the pared-down decor of the picturesque villages with whitewashed stone houses reveals itself between the intertwining streets and colorful bursts of a bougainvillea in bloom. Be captivated by the magic of a wine tasting. The breathtaking view of Mykonos offers an exquisite setting for this moment frozen in time. Included excursions are also possible to discover the island’s villages or a hike along a high point between two villages.
Further to the south of the Aegean Sea, Le Ponant will reach Polyaigos, an uninhabited, maquis-covered volcanic island protected by its flora and fauna. This white, craggy, sunlit rock with magnificent cliffs that plunge into the turquoise waters reveals its wild and natural beauty. With your yacht at anchor, you will discover the island’s secret contours and recesses, and enjoy magical moments swimming, snorkeling, paddle-boarding, or kayaking. Enjoy the charms of this stunning island until sunset when the white rocks are reflected in the crystal-clear waters, creating a golden shimmer.
The best words to describe Serifos are probably serenity and authenticity. This small island in the Cyclades archipelago is a port of call off the beaten track, on the waters of the Aegean Sea. The whiteness of its villages contrasting with its hilly scenery illuminates the dry vegetation that characterizes the Cyclades. Its main town Chora, perched on the heights, can be reached by a steep path that offers unique panoramas over the deep blue sea and its magnificent bay.
The jewel of the southern Peloponnese, Monemvasia is the romantic refuge for Athenians. Given the poetic nickname of the “stone ship”, this majestic peninsula is home to an incredibly fortified medieval village, lying at the foot of its abrupt cliffs, which seems to have been cast by the gods from the Aegean Sea. Contemplate the horizon from its ramparts, a veritable walkway defying the azure waters, and stroll through its vaulted narrow streets with their thousand shades of ochre. At the crossroads of Western and Eastern influences and the maritime routes of the continent, Crete and the Cyclades, Monemvasia has preserved in this magical decor the treasures of Venetian and Byzantine architecture.
You will discover Kythnos, an arid and rocky island covered in maquis. Low dry stone walls delimit the terraces where olive groves stand alongside fig and almond trees that feed the imagination as much as the people. Discover the chora and its beautiful white houses by taking a stroll along the intertwined streets. Then, the welcoming shade of a parasol awaits you for a nap on the beach. You might also be tempted by a swim or a spot of paddle-boarding or kayaking to discover the exceptional landscapes of this island surrounded by the exceptionally beautiful Aegean Sea.
Spetses, “the jasmine island”, is an unspoiled paradise and the favorite holiday spot of Athenian high society. The shaded outdoor dining areas of the restaurants serving local cuisine stand alongside beautiful boutiques. Away from the hustle and bustle of the world, stroll or cycle around the small port lined with the beautiful Neoclassical homes of shipowners and enjoy the pleasantness of the moment. There is a distinct dolce vita atmosphere in the air. From hidden coves to beaches of fine sand, this island is brimming with charm. The hiking trails through the pine forest also promise beautiful panoramas.
Day 8: Lavrio | Disembark
1 Breakfast
Near Athens, Lavrion is a peaceful port welcoming boats from around the world. The town has been known since ancient times for the silver-producing mines of Lavrion, which were major contributors to the wealth of Athens and the Greek economy in the 20th century. Weather permitting, take a stroll through the town and discover the many vestiges of this industry that flourished until the 1980s: old Neoclassical-style constructions, industrial buildings, and worker houses. While at this port of call, also take the time to discover Athens and its acropolis, or Cape Sounion on which stands the magnificent temple of Poseidon.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$11,6502-3 travelers
Mistral Stateroom
Individually controlled air conditioning, double bed or twin single beds, depending on the cabin; adjoining cabins available (for child-friendly cruises), mini bar, flat screen TV, satellite channels, bose™ Bluetooth Speaker, desk with writing supplies, electronic safe, selection of Dyptique Paris bath products, dressing table and hairdryer, direct phone line via satellite, 110/220 volt outlets, 24-hour room service, Unlimited free Wi-Fi
Mistral Prestige Stateroom
Individually controlled air conditioning, double bed or twin single beds, depending on the cabin; adjoining cabins available (for child-friendly cruises), mini bar, flat screen TV, satellite channels, bose™ Bluetooth Speaker, desk with writing supplies, electronic safe, selection of Dyptique Paris bath products, dressing table and hairdryer, direct phone line via satellite, 110/220 volt outlets, 24-hour room service, Unlimited free Wi-Fi
Alizé Stateroom with balcony
Individually controlled air conditioning, double bed or twin single beds, depending on the cabin; adjoining cabins available (for child-friendly cruises), mini bar, flat screen TV, satellite channels, bose™ Bluetooth Speaker, desk with writing supplies, electronic safe, selection of Dyptique Paris bath products, dressing table and hairdryer, direct phone line via satellite, 110/220 volt outlets, 24-hour room service, Unlimited free Wi-Fi
Mistral Junior Suite
Individually controlled air conditioning, double bed or twin single beds, depending on the cabin; adjoining cabins available (for child-friendly cruises), mini bar, flat screen TV, satellite channels, bose™ Bluetooth Speaker, desk with writing supplies, electronic safe, selection of Dyptique Paris bath products, dressing table and hairdryer, direct phone line via satellite, 110/220 volt outlets, 24-hour room service, Unlimited free Wi-Fi
Prestige Alizé stateroom with balcony
Individually controlled air conditioning, double bed or twin single beds, depending on the cabin; adjoining cabins available (for child-friendly cruises), mini bar, flat screen TV, satellite channels, bose™ Bluetooth Speaker, desk with writing supplies, electronic safe, selection of Dyptique Paris bath products, dressing table and hairdryer, direct phone line via satellite, 110/220 volt outlets, 24-hour room service, Unlimited free Wi-Fi
Mistral Prestige Suite
Individually controlled air conditioning, double bed or twin single beds, depending on the cabin; adjoining cabins available (for child-friendly cruises), mini bar, flat screen TV, satellite channels, bose™ Bluetooth Speaker, desk with writing supplies, electronic safe, selection of Dyptique Paris bath products, dressing table and hairdryer, direct phone line via satellite, 110/220 volt outlets, 24-hour room service, Unlimited free Wi-Fi
Alizé Privilège Suite with balcony
Individually controlled air conditioning, double bed or twin single beds, depending on the cabin; adjoining cabins available (for child-friendly cruises), mini bar, flat screen TV, satellite channels, bose™ Bluetooth Speaker, desk with writing supplies, electronic safe, selection of Dyptique Paris bath products, dressing table and hairdryer, direct phone line via satellite, 110/220 volt outlets, 24-hour room service, Unlimited free Wi-Fi
Grand Privilège Alizé Suite with balcony
Individually controlled air conditioning, double bed or twin single beds, depending on the cabin; adjoining cabins available (for child-friendly cruises), mini bar, flat screen TV, satellite channels, bose™ Bluetooth Speaker, desk with writing supplies, electronic safe, selection of Dyptique Paris bath products, dressing table and hairdryer, direct phone line via satellite, 110/220 volt outlets, 24-hour room service, Unlimited free Wi-Fi
Owner's Suite with balcony
Individually controlled air conditioning, double bed or twin single beds, depending on the cabin; adjoining cabins available (for child-friendly cruises), mini bar, flat screen TV, satellite channels, bose™ Bluetooth Speaker, desk with writing supplies, electronic safe, selection of Dyptique Paris bath products, dressing table and hairdryer, direct phone line via satellite, 110/220 volt outlets, 24-hour room service, Unlimited free Wi-Fi
Our guide and driver were very good with their knowledge and were very helpful with our questions. It was a very pleasant visit that would have been impossible to do on our own. Hotels and restaurants were fantastic. The special places we got to go to, like the kitchens, were great. Enjoyed the entire trip!
I selected Adventure Travel as I was not satisfied with the responsiveness of the agent for the cruise I was trying to book and it had good recommendations. So far, I am quite happy with my agent, Betty, very responsive and accommodating.
charles
1 week ago
Amazing. Incredible. Professional. Well done.
Wes Friedman
2 weeks ago
There were two best aspects to our trip:
1. The Adventure Life folks and the folks in Athens and Crete who supported our itinerary, guided us, and ran the cooking program were all superb.
2. Everything they all planned for us went without a hitch. When we needed a bit of help, they came through with really good answers.
We became aware of AL from a friend who had an excellent experience in a different location. So did we. We can recommend AL without reservation.
Tom Campbell
2 months ago
This will be the third trip I have arranged with Adventure Life and I find their customer service and helpfulness to be excellent. Sandra has been very knowledgeable in describing the details of the planned trip as well as the signing up process for the trip. I have and will continue to recommend Adventure Life as the best tour vendor I have had the pleasure to work with. Thank you for your continued excellence.
Linda Haugh
2 months ago
I was given all the information that I asked for and my questions were answered quickly. Very pleasant and knowledgeable agent.