Greek Island Cruise

Greek Island Cruise
Greek Island Cruise
Greek Island Cruise
Greek Island Cruise
Greek Island Cruise
Greek Island Cruise
Greek Island Cruise
Greek Island Cruise
Greek Island Cruise
Greek Island Cruise
Greek Island Cruise
Greek Island Cruise
Greek Island Cruise
Greek Island Cruise


(10 reviews)

From:

CAD $1,710 Was CAD $1,940

8 Days

Best Rate: Guarantee

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Unknown

Immerse yourself in island life on this slow-paced cruising holiday. Board our historic caique and prepare to eat, drink, and swim your way through the quiet coves and harbours of Greece's hidden gem, Evia.

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 24 Aug 2025

Experience Overview

Immerse yourself in island life on this slow-paced cruising holiday. Board our historic caique and prepare to eat, drink, and swim your way through the quiet coves and harbours of Greece's hidden gem, Evia. From sunbathing on deck to sipping sangria served by our captain, Thanos, and snorkelling in warm waters to unwinding in promenade tavernas, this trip introduces you to the best of the island, while inviting you to sit back and relax.

Board our caique - Spend six nights on a traditional wooden boat where our friendly crew provide a home away from home.

Tuck into Greek food - From freshly prepared breakfast and lunches aboard our caique to dining in authentic waterside tavernas.

Dip into the Aegean Sea - Start each day with a dip in the azure waters and snorkel to spot sea life in rocky coves.

Highlights

Cruise aboard our exclusively chartered traditional Greek caique|Sample traditional Greek food and dine at authentic waterside taverns|Swim and snorkel in the warm, azure waters of the Aegean

Trip Details

Product CodeProduct Code: 20236

Tour TypeTour Type: Small Group

AccommodationAccommodation: Moderate

TransportTransport: BusBoatFerryTaxi

Guide LanguageGuide Language: English

Tour OperatorTour Operator: Explore Worldwide

Supplier CodeSupplier Code: GC

StartStarts: Greece

FinishFinishes: Greece

DurationDuration: 8 days

DeparturesDepartures: Guaranteed

Physical RatingPhysical Rating: Unknown

Includes

  • Explore Tour Leader
  • Boat Crew

Accommodation

  • M/S Isidoros II
  • Hotel Galaxy

Price

Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $1,710 ($214 /day)

Itinerary

1
Day 1-Join trip at Athens Airport and transfer to Evia Island to board our caique

Our Grecian adventure begins today at 6pm at Athens International Airport (ATH). The latest your flight can arrive is 5.30pm, giving you time to clear the airport. We'll meet and travel as a group by bus to the port of Rafina or Marathon where we'll catch a ferry to the island of Evia. On arrival, it's a short taxi or minibus ride to Karystos where our caique will be waiting for us. Before settling into our cabins, we'll meet our friendly boat crew and enjoy a welcome drink. If your flight arrives earlier in the day and you have time to spare, Athens is easily accessible by metro from the airport. The airport is well signposted (in English) and it's a direct train. There are also luggage storage facilities at the airport. Our home for the week is the MV Isidoros II, a traditional wooden caique, owned by our captain and tour leader, Thanos and his family. Thanos has been a part of the Explore family for 20 years - there's nobody better to give you a warm welcome both aboard and to Evia. The vessel is exclusively chartered by Explore and has just eight cabins. Listed as a historic caique, there are fewer than 80 of the iconic Greek-designed boats left in existence, so being able to stay aboard is a real treat. Ours was built in 1962 and was originally used as a cargo ferry before being converted in 1974 to the comfortable passenger cruiser it is today. The boat has a large sundeck and a comfortable galley for meals. There is a bar where you can purchase a range of local wine and beer, spirits, and soft drinks. There's also a boat ladder and snorkelling equipment available on board to make the most of the many swimming opportunities. All of the cosy cabins are en-suite with windows and large fans and there is complimentary Wi-Fi on board. Our boat has a real home-from-home feel and you're free to move around as you please. If you'd like to enjoy the clear night sky and cool breeze, you can even choose to sleep on deck. Evia is one of the largest Greek islands but remains off of the main tourist trail. In summer and on the weekends, you'll find the main visitors are the Greeks leaving the city of Athens to enjoy the waterfront tavernas and uncrowded beaches. This makes visiting Evia an authentic local experience. The rugged coastline is dotted with market towns, fishing villages, secluded coves, and wide sandy beaches. The sea is clear and warm, making it a wonderful spot to swim and snorkel, while the pine-covered hills provide the perfect backdrop and help to keep the evening temperatures cooler. Please note, the order of the itinerary and inclusions may vary due to weather and cruising conditions.
Accommodation:

  • Type - Boat
  • Accommodation Name - M/S Isidoros II
  • Grade - Simple
  • All Inclusive - No
  • Any Meal Provided - No
  • Breakfast Provided - No
  • Dinner Provided - No
  • Lunch Provided - No
  • Meal Name - Meals Provided: None

2
Day 2-Cruise to Panagia, opportunity to walk to Agios Dimitrios

This trip is all about relaxing, swimming, eating, and enjoying Greece's beautiful scenery. Most days our boat will start cruising at around 9am and our crew will be ready to serve breakfast in the galley up to 11am, so there's an option to suit both early risers and those that prefer a lay-in. When we're cruising, we'll make frequent stops for swimming and snorkelling. We'll then have time for lunch at around 1pm and normally reach our night mooring spot by around 4pm before heading ashore to enjoy an evening at authentic seaside tavernas. Food and drink is a major part of our journey and you certainly won't go hungry. Our boat crew will go out to local markets to buy fresh ingredients for our breakfasts and lunches on board the boat, so what we eat will depend on what's in season. Our hearty breakfast will normally include fresh bread, cheese, ham, eggs, cereals, Greek yogurt, honey, marmalade, and fruit. Washed down with orange juice, coffee, or tea. Our crew will also serve complimentary tea and coffee with tasty biscuits and cake every day at around 11am and 5pm. Lunch is usually a freshly prepared hot meal such as oven-baked fish accompanied by seasonal salads and traditional appetisers and followed by a platter of fresh fruit. Each night of our trip, our tour leader, Thanos, is keen to show us Greek hospitality and great food in one of the waterfront tavernas. This gives you the opportunity to try authentic Greek grub such as barbecued seafood and various meats alongside traditional vegetable dishes. In short, this trip is perfect for foodies! En route to our mooring spot in Panagia, we'll stop for a cooling swim or to snorkel in search of the local marine life. If you prefer, you can always remain on board the boat. The outdoor area at the bow of the boat is covered by a canopy providing shade making it perfect for sitting with a refreshing drink and a good book or there's the indoor galley, too. On the top deck is an area perfect for sunbathing and mats are provided here for you to lay in comfort. Panagia is a small fishing village lying in the shelter of a scenic fjord. Little has changed here since the 1960s, so it feels like a bit of a time capsule, letting you step back in time as you experience the laid-back Greek lifestyle and stroll along the seafront promenade with the locals. At Panagia, you can choose to walk to the nearby village of Agios Dimitrios where the tiny, red-roofed houses are dwarfed by the mountains behind them. Alternatively, perhaps you'd prefer to visit the beautiful Church of Panagia renowned for its colourful frescoes and the two ancient olive trees, which are a remarkable 2,500 years old. They're located next to a small stream where you can watch terrapins swimming, too.
Accommodation:

  • Type - Boat
  • Accommodation Name - M/S Isidoros II
  • Grade - Simple
  • All Inclusive - No
  • Any Meal Provided - Yes
  • Breakfast Provided - Yes
  • Dinner Provided - No
  • Lunch Provided - Yes
  • Meal Name - Meals Provided: Breakfast & Lunch

3
Day 3-Cruise to Porto Buffalo then on to Panagia

Today we'll cruise to the limit of the Gulf of Evia, where the island splits from the mainland. Greek legends romantically claim that the divide was caused by the God of the Sea - Poseidon piercing the earth with his mighty trident. We'll travel via Porto Buffalo - a secluded lagoon surrounded by rolling hills and where we have the chance to swim and snorkel in the warm blue waters. We'll continue at a leisurely pace cruising to back to Panagia where we can walk along the coast to a beautiful golden beach in the Bay of Almiropotamos. Please note that during times of adverse weather, usually when there are high winds, it might not be possible to sail to Eretria. Our captain will monitor the weather daily and make a final decision on the planned route.
Accommodation:

  • Type - Boat
  • Accommodation Name - M/S Isidoros II
  • Grade - Simple
  • All Inclusive - No
  • Any Meal Provided - Yes
  • Breakfast Provided - Yes
  • Dinner Provided - No
  • Lunch Provided - Yes
  • Meal Name - Meals Provided: Breakfast & Lunch

4
Day 4-Morning cruise in the Bay of Marathon

After breakfast we cruise towards Nea Styra. This area has several stunning beaches and boasts a beautiful coastline with clear waters inviting you to swim and snorkel. The rolling hills above Nea Styra lead to a silver-green valley of olive trees where we'll have the opportunity to explore in the afternoon. As the sun sets in the historic bay of Marathon, the promenade comes to life with locals and visitors taking in a typical Mediterranean stroll before dining alfresco.
Accommodation:

  • Type - Boat
  • Accommodation Name - M/S Isidoros II
  • Grade - Simple
  • All Inclusive - No
  • Any Meal Provided - Yes
  • Breakfast Provided - Yes
  • Dinner Provided - No
  • Lunch Provided - Yes
  • Meal Name - Meals Provided: Breakfast & Lunch

5
Day 5-Swim and snorkle in Nea Styra, afternoon cruice to Figias and Marmari

After a leisurely start to the day, we'll set sail and cruise towards Figias and onto Marmari, a typical Aegean fishing village with numerous tavernas and cafes dotted along the promenade. There'll be ample opportunity to swim and snorkel off the boat close to the rocky shores.
Accommodation:

  • Type - Boat
  • Accommodation Name - M/S Isidoros II
  • Grade - Simple
  • All Inclusive - No
  • Any Meal Provided - Yes
  • Breakfast Provided - Yes
  • Dinner Provided - No
  • Lunch Provided - Yes
  • Meal Name - Meals Provided: Breakfast & Lunch

6
Day 6-Cruise to Pelai Islands for swimming and on to Karystos

Today, we'll cruise to the Archipelagos of Petali, where seven privately owned and exclusive islands offer the wealthy the best of the 'jet set lifestyle'. Dropping anchor in the bay we can also enjoy the turquoise waters. Once the summer residence of the Greek Royal family, today this is the playground of the Picasso family, the Embiricos family and other shipping tycoons. The famed soprano singer Maria Callas also spent many of her summers here. After a couple of hours spent swimming in the bay, we'll cruise to Karystos. The authentic market town is a great place to get a taste of authentic Greek island life with its working harbour having changed little over the years. You can stroll past Neo-Classical buildings and charming squares along its wide streets and admire the backdrop of Mount Ohi that rises from behind Karystos. There are also a number of sandy beaches and rocky coves nearby and there's the option to take an easy walk along the coast (covering around four to five kilometres) this afternoon.
Accommodation:

  • Type - Boat
  • Accommodation Name - M/S Isidoros II
  • Grade - Simple
  • All Inclusive - No
  • Any Meal Provided - Yes
  • Breakfast Provided - Yes
  • Dinner Provided - No
  • Lunch Provided - Yes
  • Meal Name - Meals Provided: Breakfast & Lunch

7
Day 7-Cruise to Bouros Bay and on to Karystos, option to visit Castello Rosso castle

This morning, you'll have the option to stay in Karystos and relax or take a taxi or coach up to the base of Mount Ohi. Here, you can visit the Venetian mountain castle of Castello Rosso in Gourna - a walled 13th-century crusade fort that commanded the sea corridor between Asia and Europe, the entry point to the Black Sea. From the castle, there are excellent panoramic views back over the coast. This afternoon, we'll cruise to Bouros in Karystos Bay where we'll drop anchor to enjoy our last opportunity to swim and snorkel. Afterwards, we'll sail back to the town of Karystos to spend the night in a small waterfront hotel. Tonight, we'll have the chance to taste the island's organic dessert wine after dinner in one of the waterfront restaurants.
Accommodation:

  • Type - Hotel
  • Accommodation Name - Hotel Galaxy
  • Grade - Simple
  • All Inclusive - No
  • Any Meal Provided - Yes
  • Breakfast Provided - Yes
  • Dinner Provided - No
  • Lunch Provided - Yes
  • Meal Name - Meals Provided: Breakfast & Lunch

8
Day 8-Ferry to Rafina and transfer to Athen Airport where trip ends

Departing Karystos this morning, we'll take a short taxi or minibus ride to Marmari or Styra where we'll catch the ferry back to Rafina or Marathon on mainland Greece. Our ferry will depart at approximately 9.50am. From Rafina, we'll transfer to Athens International Airport (ATH), arriving around 11.30am. The earliest your flight can depart is 1.30pm.
Accommodation:

  • Type -
  • Accommodation Name -
  • Grade -
  • All Inclusive - No
  • Any Meal Provided - Yes
  • Breakfast Provided - Yes
  • Dinner Provided - No
  • Lunch Provided - No
  • Meal Name - Meals Provided: Breakfast

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Tour Operator

Explore Worldwide

A prominent adventure travel company with over four decades of experience, this business that offers a comprehensive array of unique and thrilling experiences worldwide. Catering to various interests, they provide small group journeys, walking and cycling trips, solo holidays, and family adventures.

In Business Since 1981

Reviews

 

Paul   -  Traveled, August 2024

My first time on a Ciaque, a very compact and unique experience, sleeping on deck turned out to be a highlight. The walking and swimming were excellent and the crew went out of their way to make sure we could do both. The food on board was exceptional and George, is a marvellous cook given the size of the galley. My only concern was there was no warning as to the rough weather we encountered, a heads up would have meant I could have taken some motion sickness prevention, as one day it was rough!! Last point, don't take too much stuff as living conditions are cramped, so changing clothes can be a bit of a challenge. All in all a great holiday and taste of Greece.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 09/13/2024

 

Anonymous   -  Traveled, August 2024

With the number of people on the boat the conditions were very cramped. If sharing a room it is hard work in that space plus the badly smelling toilet situation. The team worked hard to accommodate the changing weather. People found it difficult to ask questions or get clear answers on the daily itinerary- always told to read the blackboard. First two days road walking in full sun. Improved after that. Food excellent as was the guides local knowledge and historic information. Heads up on rough crossing on last day would have give people chance to take sea sick tablets. Lot of sea sickness that could have been avoided. Great people, swims off the boat and of course the beauty of Greece.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 09/05/2024

 

Kate   -  Traveled, August 2024

A fantastic holiday. Well organised, great fun and good company! I recommend this holiday to anyone who enjoys sun, sea and discovering Greek culture.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 09/14/2024

 

Mari   -  Traveled, August 2024

Our trip with Thanos was out of this world. The itinerary changed due to weather conditions from day to day ensuring smooth sailing. The coves for swimming were so beautiful and clear. George the onboard chef made some of the most tasty local dishes which everyone on board thoroughly enjoyed. Thanos our guide was such a lovely person who provided so much information and took the group on walks to visit ancient Greek sites. We learnt so much on our 8 day tour. The transportation to and from the cruise was very well organised. We ate in excellent tavernas and restaurants each night and local wine was very nice. Thank you to Vangelas (sorry for the spelling) for being such a great captain of our vessel. I could not recommend this cruise more highly.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 09/02/2024

 

Janet   -  Traveled, June 2023

Everything. Wonderful travelling companions, we really gelled immediately from first meeting. Tour leader Thanos was fantastic his enthusiasm and knowledge really made the trip. We were so looked after. Cook George provided the most amazing meals on board and Vangelis our captain was experienced and knowledgeable about the sea, felt very safe even in choppy waters. Loved the little trips out off the boat, cafes, tavernas and history lessons ever day from Thanos.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 07/10/2023

 

Janice   -  Traveled, July 2023

Thanos’ Greek history stories real and myths. Bobbing along and relaxing and swimming from the boat The food on the boat Visiting the castle, the museum and the ancient village with Thanos and fellow travellers Visiting the small harbours

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 07/17/2023

 

Leonie   -  Traveled, June 2023

Excellent cruise. I enjoyed it very much. Everything was as described. Including issues. It is an older type of boat. The cabins are small. I travelled as a solo traveller and was lucky not to have to share with someone else. This would have been cramped especially with someone I didn't know. My cabin was very hot at night with not a lot of air flow. But the upper decks were wonderful to enjoy the laid back cruising experience. Somewhere to curl up to read and then more food! The food was great, wholesome, home cooked and tasty experience - both on board and the lovely, and well-priced, restaurants we went to in the evenings. Very experienced tour guide and cook and captain. We all followed the guidelines given to us and very much appreciated the knowledge of history and politics that our guide shared all throughout the cruise. I have now purchased books to further my knowledge. And I'd now love to join one of the hiking and cruising tours. The swimming was just divine. The clarity of the water was like a swimming pool. Lovely temperature. Cute little villages to browse around and lay on the beaches. Just save your shopping bug for Athens! Transfers went well. I felt well taken care of and enjoyed it all immensely - including my fellow travellers who were mostly solo travellers, so we all were able to buddy up easily with each other. Great atmosphere as well.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 07/16/2023

 

Peter   -  Traveled, December 2023

Once again, Explore have delivered what they do best. Here's to the next adventure :)

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 12/23/2019

 

Kim   -  Traveled, September 2024

We thoroughly enjoyed the experience. The trip was relaxing and interesting. The food on board was good. The crew were always very helpful, especially Thanos who was also very informative. Our review on the itinerary is based on the fact that we were unable to follow the original route and get to Eritrea due to the weather conditions.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/14/2024

 

Madeleine   -  Traveled, September 2024

Fantastic tour full of history, local traditions and using local restaurants, led by the best group leader! Thanos.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/11/2024

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