Greece: The Gulf of Corinth and the Ionian Islands

Individual arrival at Marina Zeas (Piraeus). It is possible to check in on the Panagiota from 2 pm. Dinner on board and overnight stay in the harbour of Piraeus.

In the morning we sail to Aegina, an island famous for its pistachios even beyond Greek borders. Here our first cycle tour takes us to the exceptionally well-preserved temple of Aphaia, enthroned high above the azure sea. In the afternoon, we sail through the Isthmus of Corinth, completed in 1893, though plans for its construction date back to Julius Caesar. This 3.9 mi./6.3 km long, 79 ft./24 m wide, and 26 ft./8 m deep canal connects the Aegean Sea with the Gulf of Corinth and saves travellers sailing from Athens to Corinth the 258 mi./400 km long trip around the whole Peloponnese peninsular. If weather conditions are fine, we continue sailing to Galaxidi, otherwise overnight stay in or near Corinth.

In the morning, a transfer shuttle collects us from Galaxidi and takes us to the famous ancient site of Delphi, which rests at the foot of the Parnassus mountain range. It was here the ancient Greeks came to worship Apollo, the god of the light, and to consult the oracle. A visit to Delphi is a truly unforgettable experience not only due to the many temples, treasuries, the well-preserved theatre, and the stadium, but also thanks to the incredible hill-side location and views of the surrounding mountains. In the afternoon, the bus takes us to the harbour of Nafpaktos where we have time for lunch and a short stroll through the beautiful town before another short bus ride brings us to Mesolongi. The boat meets us here and we stay the night.

In the morning, a longer crossing takes us to Ithaca. If the weather is good, guests can take a swim break on the way before docking at the port of Vathy. In the afternoon we explore the legendary Ithaca by bike. Ithaca is a mountainous, scenic island where you can enjoy the unique charm of the Ionian Islands away from the tourist crowds. Beautiful olives, deep blue sea and friendly locals – on Ithaca, time seems to have stood still. Spectacular views await you on this round trip! Overnight stay in Vathy.

During breakfast we cross the sea to Meganisi. Our bike tour takes us along a panoramic route on quiet island roads through the three villages of this lovely island and gives you a good impression of the traditional island life of the locals. At the beach of Spartochori, we have time for a coffee and swimming break. In the afternoon, the journey continues to Nidri on Lefkas, where guests have the opportunity (if desired) to cycle through rustic olive groves to the hidden waterfall of Nidri. Overnight stay in Nidri.

Today’s bike tour leads through the impressive mountains of Lefkas to the island capital of the same name. On the way you can enjoy spectacular views before enjoying a well-deserved coffee in the mountain village of Karia. In the town of Lefkas, the Panagiota awaits us for a longer crossing to Paxos, during which you have plenty of time to relax. You can spend the evening in one of the cozy taverns in the unique natural harbour of Gaios.

Paxos, the smallest of the seven Ionian Islands, is so densely covered in olive trees the whole island seems to glisten a wonderful silver green colour. Our morning tour leads us around the whole island. There is plenty of time to enjoy a swim in the sea at one of the many beaches. In the afternoon, the Panagiota takes us to Corfu. The last evening on board concludes with a communal dinner and last get-together in a cosy atmosphere with crew, fellow travellers, and tour guides.

After breakfast check-out and individual return home or extended stay on Corfu Island.