Sailing the Greek Isles between Athens and Corfu

Day 1: Arrival in Corfu, overnight sailing to Lefkada
Day 2: Lefkada, overnight sailing to Kefalonia
Day 3: Kefalonia, overnight sailing to Zakynthos
Day 4: Zakynthos 
Day 5: Zakynthos – Itea – Delphi
Day 6: Itea – Corinth Canal – Aegina
Day 7: Piraeus

All distances are approximate and may vary due to weather conditions or other unforeseen circumstances. The captain and crew prioritize safety and reserve the right to make adjustments as needed

Day 1: Arrival in Corfu, overnight sailing to Lefkada
Also known as Kerkyra, Corfu is one of Greece’s greenest islands, with fertile countryside and gentle hills. Its long history under Venetian, French, and British rule has left a strong mark on local culture, especially in Corfu Town’s architecture, its fortified Old Town, and local traditions. Here, the cruise director meets you at the passenger terminal and escorts you aboard the yacht. A welcome cocktail is served as you meet fellow guests and the crew, followed by the first dinner on board. During dinner, the cruise director introduces the tour and optional activities for the following day.  

Day 2: Lefkada, overnight sailing to Kefalonia
Overnight sailing brings the yacht to Lefkada, an island uniquely connected to the Greek mainland yet untouched by large-scale tourism. Originally a peninsula, Lefkada became an island when Corinthian settlers cut a canal through the narrow isthmus in the 8th century BC, cementing its maritime importance. The day includes cycling through olive groves, rolling hills, and quiet inland villages where traditional ways of life continue, before reaching Lefkada Town and its relaxed waterfront. The island’s eastern coast offers sheltered bays and small harbours, while the southern end is known for dramatic scenery and strong winds that attract sailors and board-sport enthusiasts. 

Day 3: Kefalonia, overnight sailing to Zakynthos
Arriving in Kefalonia, you enter an island known for its mountains, monasteries, and coastline. Home to Mount Enos, the tallest peak in the Ionian Islands, Kefalonia has a mix of Greek and Venetian influences. The morning begins with an optional yoga session on deck, followed by onboard activities such as introductory mast-climbing instruction. For cycling, you have two options today. The shorter route will take you from Argostoli Yacht Marina, passing through the countryside to Melissani Lake, an underground lake where sunlight reflects off the water. Stops along the way include Saint Gerasimos Monastery, with its ancient sycamore tree and cave cell, the Monastery of Saint Andrew, and the Monastery of the Crucifixion in Pessado. A nearby winery offers the chance to try Kefalonia’s Robola wines (for an additional fee). The extended route continues past Melissani Lake to Myrtos Beach, known for its white cliffs and turquoise water. A detour to Drogarati Cave offers a look at its stalactites, stalagmites, and unique acoustics. Further along, the village of Agia Efimia is a good place to stop for a savory snack before returning to the marina. 

Day 4: Zakynthos
Arrival in Zakynthos brings a day focused on the sea. After anchoring, you might enjoy swimming and watersports directly from the yacht, including use of the onboard slide. The day includes time at Xigia Beach, known for its mineral-rich waters and unusual rock formations, followed by a private boat excursion along the island’s northern coastline to explore its sea caves. The evening can be spent ashore, taking advantage of the overnight stay to enjoy the relaxed island atmosphere.

Day 5: Zakynthos – Itea – Delphi
In the early morning, the yacht sails beneath the Rion–Antirion Bridge, a landmark of modern engineering linking mainland Greece with the Peloponnese. From the port of Itea, you'll set out on a guided cycling excursion to Delphi, dramatically situated on the slopes of Mount Parnassus. Once regarded as the centre of the ancient world, Delphi was home to the Oracle of Apollo and remains one of Greece’s most famous archaeological sites. Take time to explore the ruins before returning to Itea for a relaxed evening dinner.

Day 6: Itea – Corinth Canal – Aegina
The day begins with passage through the Corinth Canal, a narrow 25-metre-wide waterway carved through limestone cliffs in the 19th century, offering a dramatic and close-up sailing experience. Optional navigation briefings onboard provide insight into the precision required to transit the canal. Later, the yacht arrives at Aegina, an island renowned for its pistachio orchards and olive groves. Highlights include the Temple of Athena Aphaia, dating to the 6th century BC and forming a symbolic triangle with the Parthenon and the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, as well as other ancient sanctuaries scattered across the island.

Day 7: Piraeus
The tour ends in Piraeus, Greece’s principal port and maritime gateway to Athens. Its harbours are filled with ferries, yachts, and commercial vessels, while the areas around Zea Marina and Mikrolimano boast cafés and restaurants that line the water’s edge. After breakfast on board, guests disembark, marking the end of the bike and sail journey from Corfu to Athens.
 

Day 1: Arrival in Athens - sail to Aegina
Day 2: Aegina - Corinth Canal - Itea
Day 3: Itea - Katakolo, 23 mi. (36 km)
Day 4: Katakolo - Zakynthos, 42 mi. (67 km)
Day 5: Zakynthos, 20 mi. (33 km)
Day 6: Zakynthos - Kefalonia, 30 - 50 mi. (49 - 80 km)
Day 7: Kefalonia - Corfu
Day 8: Departure from Corfu

All distances are approximate and may vary due to weather conditions or other unforeseen circumstances. The captain and crew prioritize safety and reserve the right to make adjustments as needed.

Day 1: Arrival in Athens - sail to Aegina
Arrive in Athens and embark in Piraeus, a bustling port blending modern energy with maritime history. Here, the cruise director meets you at the passenger terminal and escorts you aboard the yacht. A welcome cocktail is served as you meet fellow guests and the crew, followed by the first dinner on board. During dinner, the cruise director introduces the programme and optional activities for the following day. Guests then retire to their cabins for a relaxed evening.

Day 2: Aegina - Corinth Canal - Itea
Wake up docked in Aegina, known for its ancient temples, history, and pistachios. Spend the morning visiting the Temple of Athena Aphaia or the Temple of Apollo ruins, then explore Aegina Town, sampling pistachios and enjoying a coffee before setting sail at noon. Arrive at the Corinth Canal at 4 p.m. Completed in 1893, this 3.9-mile canal cuts through the Isthmus of Corinth, separating the Peloponnese from mainland Greece and saving ships a 430-mile detour. Its narrow width allows only one ship at a time, requiring clearance. The crossing takes about an hour, offering views of the limestone cliffs. Optional navigation briefings onboard provide insight into the precision required to transit the canal. By 6 p.m., the ship exits the canal and continues sailing toward Itea, arriving around 11:30 p.m., where the calm waters of the Gulf of Corinth welcome you for the night.

Day 3: Itea - Katakolo, 23 mi. (36 km)
Start the day in Itea, a waterfront town in Central Greece. After breakfast, your first day of cycling follows a route from Itea Marina to Delphi village and the archaeological site. Explore the ruins of Delphi, including the Temple of Apollo and the ancient theater, before cycling back to the marina. Spend the afternoon at a seaside café or relax on a nearby beach. The ship will depart for Katakolo at 8 p.m.

Day 4: Katakolo - Zakynthos, 42 mi. (67 km)
Arrive at 11 a.m. in Katakolo, the gateway to Ancient Olympia. Today's cycle route takes you to the ruins of the original Olympic Games, exploring the stadium, temples, and the Museum of Ancient Greek Technology. Try local dishes at a taverna or visit Magna Grecia farm for an olive press tour and tasting. Relax on nearby beaches before returning to the ship, where it will remain docked for the night.

Day 5: Zakynthos, 20 mi. (33 km)
Depart from Katakolo at 8 a.m. and sail to Zakynthos, arriving around noon. Known for its natural beauty and the National Marine Park, Zakynthos is home to endangered Caretta-caretta turtles. Cycle from Zakynthos Marina to Gerakas National Park, then explore the lively Strata Marina, the Temple of Saint Dionysus, and a winery or olive oil press before returning to the boat for the night.

Day 6: Zakynthos - Kefalonia, 30 - 50 mi. (49 - 80 km)
As the ship sails from Zakynthos to Kefalonia, consider joining an optional yoga session on deck, followed by onboard activities such as an introduction to mast-climbing.  At Kefalonia, you enter an island known for its mountains, monasteries, and coastline. Home to Mount Enos, the tallest peak in the Ionian Islands, Kefalonia has a mix of Greek and Venetian influences. For cycling, you have two options today. The shorter route will take you from Argostoli Yacht Marina, passing through the countryside to Melissani Lake, an underground lake where sunlight reflects off the water. Stops along the way include Saint Gerasimos Monastery, with its ancient sycamore tree and cave cell, the Monastery of Saint Andrew, and the Monastery of the Crucifixion in Pessado. A nearby winery offers the chance to try Kefalonia’s Robola wines (for an additional fee). The extended route continues past Melissani Lake to Myrtos Beach, known for its white cliffs and turquoise water. A detour to Drogarati Cave offers a look at its stalactites, stalagmites, and unique acoustics. Further along, the village of Agia Efimia is a good place to stop for a savory snack before returning to the marina.

Day 7: Kefalonia - Corfu
The day begins with an optional morning yoga session on deck. Later, you may opt to travel by bus or boat to Myrtos Beach, one of Greece’s most recognisable beaches, set beneath steep limestone cliffs and known for its deep blue water and curved bay. Myrtos gained international recognition after appearing in the film Captain Corelli’s Mandolin and remains one of Kefalonia’s defining landscapes. Time is allowed for swimming, photography, and enjoying the surroundings before returning to the yacht. Estimated departure is at 18:00, as the vessel sets sail in the evening toward Corfu.

Day 8: Departure from Corfu
Arrive in Corfu at 10 a.m., the legendary refuge of Odysseus, known for its Venetian architecture, British influences, and stunning coastline. Enjoy the island’s historic charm before disembarking.

Day 1: Arrival in Corfu - Kefalonia
Day 2: Kefalonia, 30 - 50 mi. (49 - 80 km)
Day 3: Kefalonia - Zakynthos
Day 4: Zakynthos - Katakolo - Pylos, 42 mi. (67 km)
Day 5: Pylos - Gytheio, 45 mi. (72 km)
Day 6: Gytheio - Nafplion, 44 - 82 mi. (71 - 132 km)
Day 7: Nafplion - Athens, 26 mi. (42 km)
Day 8: Departure from Athens

All distances are approximate and may vary due to weather conditions or other unforeseen circumstances. The captain and crew prioritize safety and reserve the right to make adjustments as needed.

Day 1: Arrival in Corfu
Also known as Kerkyra, Corfu is one of Greece’s greenest islands, with fertile countryside and gentle hills. Its long history under Venetian, French, and British rule has left a strong mark on local culture, especially in Corfu Town’s architecture, its fortified Old Town, and local traditions. Here, the cruise director meets you at the passenger terminal and escorts you aboard the yacht. A welcome cocktail is served as you meet fellow guests and the crew, followed by the first dinner on board. During dinner, the cruise director introduces the tour and optional activities for the following day.

Day 2: Kefalonia, 30 - 50 mi. (49 - 80 km)
Arriving in Kefalonia, you enter an island known for its mountains, monasteries, and coastline. Home to Mount Enos, the tallest peak in the Ionian Islands, Kefalonia has a mix of Greek and Venetian influences. The morning begins with an optional yoga session on deck, followed by onboard activities such as introductory mast-climbing instruction. For cycling, you have two options today. The shorter route will take you from Argostoli Yacht Marina, passing through the countryside to Melissani Lake, an underground lake where sunlight reflects off the water. Stops along the way include Saint Gerasimos Monastery, with its ancient sycamore tree and cave cell, the Monastery of Saint Andrew, and the Monastery of the Crucifixion in Pessado. A nearby winery offers the chance to try Kefalonia’s Robola wines (for an additional fee). The extended route continues past Melissani Lake to Myrtos Beach, known for its white cliffs and turquoise water. A detour to Drogarati Cave offers a look at its stalactites, stalagmites, and unique acoustics. Further along, the village of Agia Efimia is a good place to stop for a savory snack before returning to the marina.

Day 3: Zakynthos
Arrival in Zakynthos brings a day focused on the sea. After anchoring, you might enjoy swimming and watersports directly from the yacht, including use of the onboard slide. The day includes time at Xigia Beach, known for its mineral-rich waters and unusual rock formations, followed by a private boat excursion along the island’s northern coastline to explore its sea caves. The evening can be spent ashore, taking advantage of the overnight stay to enjoy the relaxed island atmosphere.

Day 4: Katakolo, 42 mi. (67 km)
Arrive at noon in Katakolo, the gateway to Ancient Olympia. Spend the day cycling to the ruins of the original Olympic Games, where you can explore the stadium, temples, and Museum of Ancient Greek Technology. Try local dishes like kreokakavos, oktapodi, or moussaka at a taverna, or visit Magna Grecia farm for an olive press tour and tasting (for an additional fee). Back in Katakolo, relax on nearby sandy beaches before setting sail at 11 p.m.

Day 5: Pylos, 45 mi. (72 km)
Arrive in Pylos at 8 a.m., a historic town built around Navarino Bay. Cycle from the marina to Polilimnio Waterfalls, then on to Voidokilia Beach, a stunning natural cove. Explore Paleokastro Fortress for panoramic views before returning to town. Alternatively, visit Niokastro Fortress, Nestor’s Cave, or take a detour to the medieval MethoniCastle. Conclude your day in the shaded Trion Navarchon Square before departing at 8 p.m.

Day 6: Gytheio, 44 - 82 mi. (71 - 132 km)
Arriving in Gytheio at 8 a.m., you find a quiet fishing town with historic architecture and a working harbor. The town’s waterfront has fish taverns and old mansions, while the Laconiaregion is known for its citrus trees, figs, tomatoes, wine, ouzo, and tsipouro. Nearby Mavrovouni Beach, the longest in the area, is a nesting site for Caretta-caretta sea turtles. There are two cycling options today. The shorter route leads from Gytheio Marina to Diros Caves, an underground network of stalactites and stalagmites. Along the way, the Mani Peninsula villages offer the chance to sample regional foods like cured ham and xoriatiko loukaniko sausage. The return ride follows the coast back to the marina. For a longer ride, the route goes to Monemvasia, a medieval fortress town built on a rock rising from the sea. The route passes through rural Laconia before reaching the town, where visitors can walk its stone streets and explore Byzantine churches and castle ruins. After cycling, return to Gytheio before the ship departs at 6 p.m.

Day 7: Nafplion, 26 mi. (42 km)
Arrive in Nafplion at 10:00 AM, Greece’s first modern capital. Cycle to the ruins of Mycenae, home to the Lion Gate and Treasury of Atreus. Back in town, stroll the sea promenade and try local specialties like trachanas soup and artichoke salad. Visit Karonis Distillery for a tsipouro tasting or explore the fortresses of Palamidi and Bourtzi. Depart at 8:00 PM.

Day 8: Departure from Athens
Arrive in Athens at 8 a.m., disembarking in Piraeus, a bustling port blending modern energy with maritime history. Explore Zea Marina and Mikrolimano’s waterfront cafes, or venture into Athens for a final look at ancient wonders before concluding your journey.