DAY-TO-DAY ITINERARY
Departs: Alternate Saturdays April – October. All journeys sail aboard The Elysium.
2022 dates: April 30; May 21; June 11; July 2, 23; August 13; September 3, 24; October 15
Combine with Divine Cyclades for a 14-night journey.
DAY 1: Zea
Embarkation at Marina Zea between 14:00-15:00. Welcome onboard the Elysium and savour our signature cocktail during a smooth check-in. Evening arrival in the Saronic island of Hydra. Enjoy a leisurely walk at one of the most cosmopolitan and equally romantic destinations in Greece. Hydra is an architectural reserve, free of motor vehicles, and summer home to many international celebrities. Dinner on board the Elysium and overnight at the port of Hydra.
DAY 2: Fokianos – Monemvasia
In the morning, we set sail for the Peloponnese, where you will enjoy a swim stop at the stunningly beautiful, sheltered bay of Fokianos, with its white pebble beach and crystal-clear waters. Lunch on board the Elysium. Late afternoon we arrive in the uniquely preserved medieval town of Monemvasia, meaning “the only entrance”. Explore its fairytale-like beauty and walk its narrow, pebbled alleys. Join our optional historical tour and opt to hike up to Hagia Sofia’s church, among the oldest and most important Byzantine churches in Greece. The windswept panorama of the Aegean sea from atop the cliff will astound you. Overnight in Monemvasia.
DAY 3: Pavlopetri – Elafonisos
Morning arrival off the coast of southern Laconia at Pavlopetri, one of the oldest submerged cities in the world. The spectacular UNESCO Bronze age city is over 5000 years old and visiting this place is no doubt an impressive addition to any true traveller’s journal. The snorkelling over Pavlopetri is simply breathtaking and a memory that you will cherish forever. Just across from Pavlopetri, the tiny Elafonisos is a dream of an island with sandhills and turquoise tropical waters. Swim ashore or let our tender take you to this magical beach, a Natura protected habitat. Lunch and dinner on board. Overnight at sea.
DAY 4: Ancient Olympia – Zakynthos
Early morning arrival at Katakolon port, our base to explore the birthplace of the Olympic Games. The UNESCO world heritage site of ancient Olympia will transport you to a different era. To this day, the Olympic flame is lit from the sun’s rays, at the Temple of Hera and passed on by a high priestess. Take our optional historical tour to visit the archaeological sites and museums of ancient Olympia, undoubtedly one of the world’s most significant ancient sanctuaries. Late afternoon we set sail for Zakynthos island. Enjoy a swim at Vasilikos beach, visit the authentic villages in the area or opt for a horse-riding experience before we sail to the main port of Zakynthos. Discover the famous vibrant town, also known as Zante. Dinner on board the Elysium and overnight at the port.
DAY 5: Navagio Beach – Ithaca
Morning arrival at the stunning world-famous “Navagio” beach. Also known as “smuggler’s” cove, it has repeatedly been voted most beautiful beach in the world. Jump off the Elysium platform into the milky blue waters or let us take you onshore to enjoy the soft white sand beach and have a close-up look of the shipwreck. Lunch on board. Late afternoon we depart for Ithaca, the mythical island of Odysseus. Enjoy a chilled glass of wine or a cocktail next to the waves at the port of Milos, the heart of the nightlife in Ithaca. Overnight at Vathy port in Ithaca.
DAY 6: Ithaca – Gidaki
Optional excursions to the Archaeological Collection of Stavros, which houses findings from excavations in the wider region of Stavros and northern Ithaca or to the small and peaceful Kathara Monastery high up on a mountain. The views on the way back to Vathy port are staggering. In the afternoon we set sail to Gidaki, a stunning beach with emerald green waters, one of the most beautiful in the Ioanian sea. Late evening departure for Itea. Dinner on board the Elysium and overnight at sea.
DAY 7: Itea - Delphi – Galaxidi
Early morning arrival in Itea, the perfect base for exploring Delphi and the beautiful Galaxidi, with our optional historical tours. The ancient sanctuary of Delphi, dedicated to the God Apollo, was considered the “navel of the world” and from there the Oracle and high priestess Pythia gave her prophecies. The romantic and tranquil town of Galaxidi has a rich maritime history and was once one of Greece’s wealthiest ports and shipyards. Beautiful neoclassical architecture and pebble covered courtyard are immaculately preserved to this day. Return to the Elysium and enjoy a cocktail as you experience the unforgettable crossing of the narrow Corinth Canal. Farewell dinner on board.
DAY 8: Zea
Disembarkation at Marina Zea after breakfast.
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