Guide

On this trip you will be accompanied by one of our skippers. Your skipper’s role involves taking charge of the sailing, the safety of the vessel and safety for all passengers on board. Skippers all hold a Yacht Master Offshore license or higher and have completed an intense training and review process before sailing with us. They are also fully qualified in CPR : and First Aid. The aim of the skipper is also to take the hassle out of your travels by organizing the overall operation and smooth-running of the trip, managing trip logistics and coordinating the kitty (where applicable). Your skipper will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect skippers to have a broad general knowledge of the places visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects.

Others

All activities and services stated as included.

Transport

This is a sailing adventure so our time is spent on board a monohull yacht. You may be asked to assist on-deck, particularly when coming into or leaving port. No experience is necessary, but getting to know some ’sailing language’ might help to get you into the spirit of the adventure. Bow - front of the boat Stern - rear of the boat Port - left Starboard - right Deck - outside, upper area of the boat Hull - the main part or body of the boat Keel - part of the boat under water that keeps the boat stable and stops it capsizing Mainsail - the large sail attached to the mast and boom Mast - the big vertical pole that supports the mainsail Boom - the big horizontal pole attached to the mainsail, coming off the rear of the mast (swing from side to side) Jib, headsail, genoa, foresail - smaller sail near the front of the boat Sheet - ropes used to control the sails Booty - another word for pirate treasure Lines - other ropes on the boat (ropes are never called ropes on yachts) Spinnaker - large extra sail Trim the sails - adjust the position of the sails when the wind changes strength or direction Tiller or wheel or helm - used to steer the boat Helmsman - person steering the boat Running - sailing with the wind Tack - turning the bow of the boat when sailing through the wind Jibe - turning the stern of the boat when sailing through the wind Figure-eight knot - the stopper: often used at the end of lines to stop them getting away. Bowline (knot) - strong and dependable knot that is commonly used Clove Hitch (knot) - not as secure it is often used to attach an object to a line Boat

Accommodation

This trip is accommodated entirely on board a yacht of between 54ft to 56ft. A typical yacht for 11 travellers is equipped with a mixture of 2 x double cabins, 2 x twin cabins and 1 x triple cabin. There are 5 shared bathrooms. Our boats are real yachts and this is a real sailing trip. Yachts are designed to keep sleeping areas to the absolute minimum of space, while maximising common areas as much as possible. Rooms are allocated on arrival by our skipper according to group composition, which means it is not possible to reserve or guarantee any specific berth or cabin. Single passengers will be paired up with another passenger of the same gender, this may mean sharing a double cabin with a double mattress. Everyone including the skipper shares the bathrooms on board. While not everyone may feel entirely comfortable living in such close quarters, those who are looking to revel in the adventure and exhilaration of an authentic sailing trip usually find any discomfort from cramped living conditions is more than made up for by the whole experience. ADDITIONAL ACCOMMODATION: Please note that the majority of our sailing trips start and/or finish at a marina or port. For most of our destinations, we can provide transfers between the airport/hotel and the port/marina. Please check the joining and finish point information in the trip notes for details. ELECTRICITY: While there should be electricity on board throughout your trip the voltage is likely to vary widely, from 12V to 220V, and when in port or moored we are dependent on the supply available. Please be aware that the supply may not be sufficient to power some electronic devices all the time and that you may need a voltage adapter or similar (such as portable inverter used in cars). On some trips it may be possible to charge devices ashore at restaurants or resorts, however this is not guaranteed. WI-FI: Please note that our sailing boats do not have Wi-Fi. You will be getting off the boat and visiting towns regularly so you will be able to connect with the outside world then. Overnight boat (7 nights)

Not included:

Meals

Meals are not included in this tour.

Optional

Other activities and services not included.

Insurance

Insurance is not included. Travel insurance is required for this tour. Please make sure you are adequately covered. If you require travel insurance, TourRadar has partnered up with World Nomads to provide a hassle-free experience. More information can be found here (https://www.tourradar.com/travel-insurance).

Flights

International flights not included.

Others

Other activities and services not included.

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Day 1 Day 1: Mykonos
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 1: Mykonos

Kalimera! Welcome to Greece. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 4 pm at a restaurant (Cantina Mykonos). The first port of call is the local supermarket to buy supplies for your trip as a group. The starter pack will include provisions for some breakfasts, lunches and/or snacks. If you have any special dietary requirements, please make sure you notify us at the time of booking so we can accommodate your requests. Before or after the meeting, maybe head out to explore Mykonos or unwind on one of the island’s sandy beaches. Perhaps visit the Church of Panagia Paraportiani or browse the galleries, restaurants and boutiques. Tonight, why not grab your fellow travellers and wander down to Little Venice to enjoy a cocktail by the water at sunset.
Day 2 Day 2-7: Sailing The Greek Islands
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 2-7: Sailing The Greek Islands

This morning, head for the Bay of Gaidharos for breakfast and a swim, before making your way across the glistening water to Naxos – home to beautiful beaches, fragrant olive groves and the villages of Hora, the capital of Naxos. As the largest Cycladic Island, Naxos also has one of the most colourful mythological histories. The Old Town areas of Hora are perfect for a stroll and some nightlife. Visit the impressive Venetian Kastro, where mansions, monuments and churches all retain their medieval spirit in the winding laneways. Stop by the old Roman Catholic Cathedral in the square, and the nearby Archaeological Museum which is housed in the former Jesuit School of Commerce. The massive Portara stands as the gateway to the unfinished Temple of Apollo on the islet of Palatia, just to the north of the marina. You can also head into the countryside to see local rural life, visit one of the oldest temples in Greece, then chill out in the hills with lunch at a family tavern. Get a taste of the local brew with a shot of Kitron (best described as a lemon liquor) and top it off with a wander along the beach. Over the next few days, you’ll sail to Syros, the Small Cyclades, Amorgos, Ios, then you’ll return to Santorini. Sail to the island of Syros, dropping by the Bay of Gaidharos along the way for a swim. Known for its relaxed atmosphere and neo-classical architecture, Syros’ neutral role during the Greek Revolution made it a safe haven for the persecuted. You can catch a bus up the hill to the fortress-like village of Ano Syros and explore the town’s stone archways and narrow alleyways (the views of the Aegean are stunning from up here). Sample authentic Greek food and culture in the capital of Syros and the Cyclades, Ermoupoli, and check out the town hall in the main square. Sail to the Small Cyclades, where only Koufonisia, Iraklia, Schinousa and Donousa have permanent residents. Here, you’ll discover clear waters, great beaches, friendly locals and sleepy tavernas all built around the fishing villages. Explore the town, maybe sampling some fresh seafood in a waterfront taverna – a great way to take in the magic of the Mediterranean. Visit the rugged mountainous island of Amorgos is known as the location of Luc Bresson’s film ’The Big Blue’. Amorgos has a history of colonisation and occupation with evidence of a functioning society back as far as 4000 BC. At Katapola, the island’s main port, you’ll see classic Cycladic architecture with windmills and an old Venetian castle. Stroll the waterfront, explore the ancient Minoan Settlement or visit the village of Hora (Amorgos town), which sits high on the rocky mountainside. Maybe drive up to the 11th-century monastery, Moni Hozoviotissis, built gripping the cliff face with panoramic views across the Aegean Sea. Continue to Ios, an island inhabited since early Cycladic times, proudly claiming to be the burial place of epic Greek poet Homer. Ios has managed to retain some allure from the abundance of beaches and preservation of its classic cube houses packed around the laneways of Hora. A short walk from the harbour are Hora’s shops, restaurants, nightclubs, bars and cafes. If you’re seeking a more authentic taste of the Old Town, explore during the day while the masses are beachside. The popular beaches of Gialos and Milopotas are also lively at night with a range of water sports on offer during the day. Valmas, Kolitzani and Tsamaria are all options if you’re looking for something a little quieter. Sunset views can be enjoyed from the hill where Panagia Gremiotissa (the Church of the Virgin) sits. The distinctive single palm tree next to the church makes it an icon you can always see from throughout town. On your penultimate day, you’ll sail back towards Santorini, spending the final night of the trip in Thirasia. Formed by a huge volcanic explosion, Santorini is instantly recognisable with its blue and white buildings, fascinating ruins and natural beauty. After sailing through the caldera, maybe head to the capital of Fira, sitting the edge of the caldera. Popular for its restaurants, shops and bars, you can make the most of the scenery on a walk along the rim to Firostefani, Imerovigli and Oia. Santorini’s volcanic beaches are also a must-see – head to Red Beach or the black beaches of Perissa, Vlhada, Perivolos and Agios Georgios.
Day 3 Day 8: Santorini
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 8: Santorini

Your adventure comes to an end this morning in Santorini at Athinios Port. If you plan to depart today, make sure your flight doesn’t depart until after 4 pm. Your skipper can assist with organizing a taxi to drop you off at your hotel or Santorini Airport. It’s recommend booking a couple of extra night’s accommodation to see all the sights that Santorini has to offer – if you do have the time to extend your adventure, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time.

8 days tour

Sail Greece: Mykonos To Santorini

This tour includes:

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Itinerary of your trip Sail Greece: Mykonos To Santorini

Day 1: Mykonos

Day 2-7: Sailing The Greek Islands

Day 8: Santorini

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