Join 58-passenger Elysium for this brand new yacht cruise to the rugged Peloponnese and the beautiful Ionian Islands, with visits to the lesser-known gems of Ithaca and Gidaki, refreshing swim stops in the Aegean, and relaxing wellness experiences.
Discover the rugged Peloponnese, the southernmost peninsula of Greece, fringed by dense forests and olive trees, and visit some of the lesser-known Ionian Islands on this relaxing yacht cruise.
Set sail from Lavrion to the romantic island of Hydra, full of character, before continuing to the Peloponnese for a refreshing swim stop in the sheltered bay of Fokianos. Discover the medieval town of Monemvasia with its narrow, pebbled alleys and beautiful Byzantine churches.
Off the coast of southern Laconia is Pavlopetri, one of the oldest submerged cities in the world. This spectacular UNESCO Bronze age city is over 5000 years old and a visit here is a memorable experience. A stone's throw away is the paradise island of Elafonisos with its stunning beach.
Katakolon is the gateway to UNESCO-listed ancient Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games. To this day the Olympic flame is lit from the rays of the sun at the Temple of Hera. Enjoy visits to Zakynthos and Zante, and step ashore on the stunning world-famous 'Navagio' beach, known as 'Smuggler's Cove'.
Soak up the incredible scenery on Ithaca, the mythical island of Odysseus, embrace the emerald green waters surrounding Gidaki, and visit pretty Itea, the perfect base for exploring Delphi and the beautiful Galaxidi.
Buffet breakfast, half-board and on some days full-board
Welcome Cocktail and beach BBQ
Still water and unlimited filter coffee and tea, plus cookies station
Room service offered without surcharge
Group yoga, pilates, aquarobics, meditation sessions with a qualified onboard Wellness Coach
Occasional themed seminars by visiting masters
Access to mini gym
Use of fishing equipment, snorkeling equipment and water sports equipment
Wi-Fi
Advice from the multilingual Cruise Concierge
Excludes
Return flights from the UK and overseas transfers
Beverages and alcoholic drinks
Optional shore excursions or additional land arrangements
Spa treatments
Boutique purchases
Medical services
Water ski & scuba diving
Passenger personal expenses
Crew gratuities at passenger discretion
Hair and nail services
Laundry and dry-cleaning services
Travel insurance
Port charges
Special Features
Please note: All onboard charges are in Euros
Solo travelers are welcome on the cruise, as there are many activities and facilities suitable for all types of travelers. Single supplement is set at a reduced 50% over current fares. In addition, the Elysium has a single cabin/no single supplement reserved on priority basis
Cruise Map
Itinerary
Day 1Lavrion Port - Hydra (Greece)
Embarkation at Lavrion between 14:00-15:00. Welcome on board 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 Hydra.
Day 2Fokianos - 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 the church of Hagia Sofia, 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 3Pavlopetri - Elafonisos
This morning, arrive 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. The snorkeling over Pavlopetri is simply breathtaking. Just across from Pavlopetri, the tiny Elafonisos is a dream of an island, with sand hills and turquoise tropical waters. Swim ashore or let the tender take you to the beach, a Natura protected habitat. Lunch and dinner on board. Overnight at sea.
Day 4Ancient Olympia - Zakynthos
Early morning arrival at Katakolon port, the base to explore the birthplace of the Olympic Games. To this day the Olympic flame is lit from the rays of the sun, at the Temple of Hera and passed on by a high priestess. Take an optional historical tour to visit the archaeological sites and museums of ancient Olympia. Late afternoon 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 sailing to the main port of Zakynthos. Discover the famous vibrant town, also known as Zante. Dinner on board the Elysium and overnight at port.
Day 5Navagio beach - Ithaca
This morning, Elysium reaches 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 platform into the warm waters or go ashore to the beach. Lunch on board. Late afternoon depart for Ithaca, the mythical island of Odysseus. Overnight at Vathy port in Ithaca.
Day 6Ithaca - Gidaki
Today there is an optional excursion 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, 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 7Itea - 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 8Lavrion Port
Disembarkation at Lavrion port before 10:00, after breakfast.
Ancient Paths ItineraryThe Captain of the ship reserves the right to alter or deviate from the ship's advertised or
ordinary itinerary or route due to weather conditions, force majeure, assistance to other ships in
distress, saving of life at sea or other extraordinary conditions.
