Sailing the Greek Isles between Athens and Corfu

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
Day 7: Kefalonia - Corfu, 30 - 50 mi. (49 - 80 km)
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. Explore Zea Marina and Mikrolimano’s waterfront cafes or take in Athens’ iconic landmarks before setting sail at 8 p.m. Arrive in Aegina by 11 p.m. where the ship will remain docked for the night. 

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.

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. For a local experience, visit Moka Honey Farm or join the Olive Stories Tour to learn about beekeeping and olive oil production. 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
Depart Zakynthos at 8 a.m., arriving in Kefalonia at 2 p.m. Known for its sailors, climbers, monasteries, and winemaking, the island is dominated by Mount Enos, the tallest peak in the Ionian Islands.

Visit Saint Gerasimos Monastery, home to the saint’s cave cell and ancient sycamore tree, followed by stops at Andrew the First-Called Apostle Monastery, the Monastery of Saint Crucifixion in Pessado, and the Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary. A local winery offers a chance to sample Robola wines, a Kefalonian specialty. Alternatively, you might choose to explore Drogarati Cave, known for its stalactites, stalagmites, and acoustics that once hosted Maria Callas and Luciano Pavarotti.  

This evening the ship will remain docked in Kefalonia. 

Day 7: Kefalonia - Corfu, 30 - 50 mi. (49 - 80 km)
After breakfast, set out on a cycling tour of Kefalonia, choosing between two routes that showcase the island’s stunning landscapes.

The standard route follows a scenic loop from Argostoli Yacht Marina to Melissani Lake, an underground lake where sunlight creates a mesmerizing display of blue hues. Enjoy a leisurely ride through the countryside before returning to the ship. For a more challenging ride, continue past Melissani Lake to Myrtos Beach, one of Greece’s most famous beaches, known for its dramatic white cliffs and turquoise waters. This extended route includes more elevation changes and breathtaking coastal views.

Return to the ship by 6 p.m. to begin sailing to 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.
 

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  Launched in 2011, Running on Waves combines the elegance of a traditional barquentine rig with the advantages of modern design. This 3-mast tall ship offers guests a classic sailing experience with contemporary comforts like fine dining, water sports, and educational programs. It's perfect for those seeking adventure without compromising on comfort. Read More