In the Ionian archipelago, lush green islands of pine and wildflowers are scattered through a bright turquoise sea. Rugged mountains and olive groves surround Venetian palaces and ancient temples, and sheer limestone cliffs fall away to some of Europe’s best beaches and glimmering sea caves.
Rich in history and Greek myth, the Ionian Islands make excellent high season cruising due to their minimal summer winds, with rustic waterfront tavernas and glamorous restaurants creating the perfect mix of authentic Greek island life and superyacht decadence. Here’s a sample 7-day charter itinerary for the Ionian Islands
DAY 1
Athens is known for its rich culture and history, it’s the heart of an Ancient civilization and home to many of the world’s greatest inventors and mathematicians. The Cyclades Islands are notorious for sandy beaches, memorable sunsets, white stone buildings, blue roofs, delicious food, and it’s friendly, hospitable people. All aboard to Kea, where blue and green coves await your arrival and are the canvas for the perfect picture of what to expect on your Greek Islands charter
DAY 2
After breakfast, sail to a suitable spot for a swim and some lounging on the sundeck. Scooters can be rented for the day, the tender can take you to Kalo Livadi for go-karting or guests can disembark to Ornos and have a taxi take them to the city for shopping. Return to the old port for dinner.
DAY 3
Depart for Naoussa on the nearby island of Paros, the most picturesque fishing village in the Cyclades, which is packed tightly with traditional fishing boats and surrounded by restaurants. It is a typical Cycladic scene, with octopuses hanging up to dry and fishermen mending their nets. Take lunch on board or step ashore and try one of the restaurants lining the harbor. In the afternoon, tender to nearby Kolympithres beach. Naoussa has some excellent clubs and bars for a fun night out.
DAY 4
Ios, also known as the island of youth, where young people from all over the world meet and share their summer holidays. Famous for its vivid nightlife and various bars, cafes, clubs, restaurants and beaches, all wrapped up in crystal clear waters. The coastline of this mountainous island contains countless chapels, olive trees and vineyards. Make the effort to explore its rural landscape and beautiful villages and you’ll be pleasantly surprised by what you find.
DAY 5
With its dramatic cliffs and pristine white-washed buildings, Santorini is considered among the most beautiful of the Greek Islands. Arrive in time for lunch,
then spend the afternoon exploring the photogenic town. Your captain will suggest a place for dinner, followed by some dancing at a nightclub.
DAY 6
Set sail after breakfast for beautiful Manganari Beach on Ios island. This idyllic spot is perfect for a day in the water, playing with the yacht’s toys then relaxing in the sunshine. The crew will tend to your every need, including a lovely lunch on board. As the sun sinks towards the horizon, you’ll head for Milos. Dinner is served on board – and maybe enjoy a movie night.
DAY 7
Moving on to greener pastures, Serifos is one of the few islands in the Cyclades Islands that has lush vegetation, with sandy beaches, serene landscape and picturesque villages. The rocky coastline is deeply indented with a chain of coves and bays. White houses ascend all the way to the Venetian Castle, like something out of a fairy tale, head up the trail and take a look for yourself
DAY 8
Make your way back to Athens, stopping at Aegina en route to look at the wonderful Temple of Aphaia, an architectural marvel. Arrive back in Athens in the afternoon for disembarkation.