A relaxing island-hopping sailing cruise to Greece and Italy.
From Athens, set sail to the tranquil car-free island of Hydra and beautiful Byzantine town of Monemvasia, with its incredible ancient ruins.
The pretty Greek town of Pilos overlooks Navarino Bay, while the serene island of Lefkada is named after its famous white cliffs.
Star Clipper then cruises to Italy, calling at volcanic Lipari, one of the seven Aeolian Islands. The next port of call is stunning Sorrento on the famed Amalfi Coast, gateway to Pompeii. Enjoy visits to the pastel town of Ponza in the Pontine archipelago, and the snorkelling haven of Palmarola, before heading to Civitavecchia.
S622 Operated by Star Clippers
.
Athens to Rome Itinerary
Day 1 - Piraeus (Athens, Greece)
Embark Star Clipper in Pireaus, the port for Athens
Day 2 - Hydra
This interesting island has no roads or vehicles, a wild and sparsely populated interior and magnificent mansions, some open to visitors, and built by shipowners in the 18th century. Walk along steep donkey trails, visit one of the many monasteries, and soak in the atmosphere which attracts artists to make their homes here.
Day 3 - Monemvasia
This perfectly preserved ancient walled town is connected to the Peloponnese mainland by a causeway. The maze of medieval streets and twisting alleys lead up to the 12th-century Byzantine church of Aghia Sophia, and to the fortress which defended the enclave from assaults by Normans, Catalans and pirates.
Day 4 - Pilos
Picturesque Pilos has a huge natural harbour surrounded by pine-covered hills. Perhaps visit the Mycenean Palace of Nestor and the archaeological museum in nearby Chora, or take a boat trip to the lighthouse at the entrance of the bay of Navarino.
Day 5 - Levkas
Lefkada's name means "white," from the famous white cliffs of Cape Lefkata, site of an ancient temple of Apollo, You can also explore deserted monasteries in the mountains, splash around under the Nidri waterfalls. Take a break in one of the famous fish tavernas in Nidri but make you also sample Delimari salami, it’s the islands favourite.
Day 6 - At sea
Enjoy the ship's facilities on a relaxing day at sea
Day 7 - Lipari (Italy)
Italy's seven volcanic Aeolian Islands, just off the north coast of Sicily, are obviously a place favored by the Gods. In Lipari, climb narrow streets to the medieval castello and enjoy a secluded beach.
Day 8 - Sorrento
Sorrento, whose city walls rise straight out of the sea, is located on the lovely Amalfi Coast and overlooks the Bay of Naples. Optional excursions might include taking a trip back in history to Pompeii, where the ashen remains of ancient Romans lie frozen in time.
Day 9 - Ponza - Palmarola
The pastel houses of Ponza Town rise in neat terraced rows from the busy harbour where sleekly groomed yachts and ramshackle fishing boats moor side by side. Happily, there are few tourists here, so it's a delight to wander through the unspoiled town.
Day 10 - Civitavecchia
Disembark Star Clipper in Civitavecchia, the port for Rome
The Captain reserves the right to alter the itinerary to suit wind and weather conditions.