The Greek Isles by Luxury Sailing YachtItinerary

Day 1: En Route from U.S.
Friday, June 13, 2025

Day 2: Arrive in Athens, Greece | Lavrio – Embarkation
Saturday, June 14, 2025
Upon arriving at Athens International Airport an Orbridge representative will be waiting to assist with your transfer to the private yacht in Lavrio.

Stepping on board Le Ponant, you'll notice a welcoming atmosphere of tranquility. The gentle lapping of waves against the hull and the rhythmic dance of the sails create a serene ambiance that will accompany you throughout the journey. Disconnect from the hustle of daily life and fully immerse yourself in the beauty of your surroundings as embarkation begins. Take time to unpack and familiarize yourself with your stateroom and the yacht’s public spaces.

Whenever conditions allow, the captain will shut down the engines and navigate under wind power. As the crew gradually unfurls the neatly wound sails, the canvas catches the breeze like wings awakening for flight. The remarkable sense of synergy between the vessel and the powerful natural elements is a feeling like no other.

This evening gather with fellow travel companions for a special welcome reception to celebrate the exciting adventure yet to unfold.
Overnight: Le Ponant (R,D)

Day 3: Tinos
Sunday, June 15, 2025
Our first port of call, Tinos, beckons with spiritual allure. Famed for the miraculous shrine of the Holy Church of Panagia, this island is a haven for those seeking an intimate refuge amidst unspoiled landscapes.

Disembark and choose one of two included excursions. 

Set off on a guided hike along a rocky trail, passing by the ruins of a Venetian fortress and stopping at the quaint village of Volax to admire the traditional art of basket weaving before arriving at Agapi—one of the island's oldest villages—for a delicious lunch.

Alternatively, join a village tour by motor coach, first visiting Volax and the basket weavers followed by a museum tour at Pyrgos to gain insight into the island's tradition of marble art. Stroll the narrow streets lined with artisan shops, each offering a piece of revered marble craftsmanship, and embrace the island's sacred ambiance, from its beautiful churches to the uninterrupted views of the Aegean Sea.

Return to the yacht with time to refresh before dinner. By now, you’ll have noticed fine dining on board is not only a priority but an experience for the senses. The restaurant, Le Diamant, is designed towards the exterior to provide exceptional panoramic views from indoors, plus the outdoor terrace offers 34 seated places for an alternative dining atmosphere. For each meal, experienced chefs prepare the ultimate in gastronomic cuisine using high quality organic and local ingredients.
Overnight: Le Ponant (B,L,D)

Day 4: Polyaigos
Monday, June 16, 2025
Le Ponant gracefully glides south towards Polyaigos, the uninhabited gem of the Cyclades, for a full day of water activities and blissful leisure time.

Take advantage of opportunities to swim, snorkel and paddleboard in crystal-clear waters around the yacht. Or join a group to fish just off the bow.

Set off on a Zodiac tour to discover the pristine paradise of Polyaigos with no permanent residents—other than the native flora and fauna. Swim and snorkel around the secluded beaches, reveling in the exclusive experiences in this private maritime sanctuary.

This evening gather for another convivial dining experience in the restaurant.
Overnight: Le Ponant (B,L,D)

Day 5: Serifos
Tuesday, June 17, 2025
The enchanting island of Serifos unfolds like a dream, with its postcard-perfect landscapes of whitewashed buildings and cobalt-blue accents set against hills of dry vegetation. Visit the Monastery of Taxiarches, which served as a place of worship and spiritual retreat for centuries since being founded around the 1600s. Dedicated to the island's patron saints—the Archangels Michael and Gabriel—the interior of the monastery is adorned with intricate frescoes and ornate icons that illustrate tales of faith and devotion.

Continue to the well-preserved remains of a white marble tower dating back to the 4th century BC. Most likely used as a watchtower or guard post, the expansive views from the top are magnificent.

Next visit Mega Livadi, one of the main loading sites for the island's mining industry, to learn about Serifos' mining history which concluded in 1963. Stroll along the beach and nearby bridge where traces of minerals can still be discovered. Stop for lunch at a local taverna before returning to the yacht.

Back on board, enjoy a relaxing dip in the saltwater swimming pool or schedule a wellness treatment in the spa (additional fees apply).
Overnight: Le Ponant (B,L,D)

Day 6: Monemvasia (Peloponnese)
Wednesday, June 18, 2025
Our next destination is the uniquely preserved medieval village of Monemvasia of the southern Peloponnese, a living testament to Byzantine and Venetian influence. Split into lower town and upper town, its stone mansions, idyllic streets and Byzantine churches are some of the many reasons why this island is referred to as the "Gibraltar of the East."

Carved entirely on the backside of a massive rock, Monemvasia was strategically positioned so locals could avoid enemy attacks. The town’s singular entrance point served as a defensive design, providing protection against invasions and ensuring the safety of its inhabitants during medieval times.

Board a motor coach, entering town via the sole city gate to explore the lower town during a guided walking tour. Traverse cobbled streets, discover notable gems around the square of Elkomenos and ascend to the upper town for endless panoramic views.

Later take a short drive by motor coach to an olive oil estate in Liotrivi. The property was once owned by the Greek poet Yiannis Ritsos and served as his annual summer retreat. Join a guide to tour the olive press museum and wine cellar followed by a tasting featuring locally made olive oil, wine, oregano and feta.

The remainder of the afternoon, embrace leisure time on the yacht. Refresh on the sun deck with a cold beverage or mingle with fellow travel companions in the Bar Emeraude.
Overnight: Le Ponant (B,L,D)

Day 7: Kythnos
Thursday, June 19, 2025
After breakfast on board, disembark in Kythnos, an arid and rocky island covered in thick evergreen underbrush. The island’s nutrient-dense soil provides an ideal environment for olive groves, and fig and almond trees. Bask in the tranquility of Loutra, known for its thermal springs, or explore the charming main town of Chora. Be tempted to nap beneath an umbrella on the beach, or swim, paddleboard or kayak before returning to the yacht in the early evening.
Overnight: Le Ponant (B,L,D)

Day 8: Spetses
Friday, June 20, 2025
Arriving early morning in Spetses, step onto an island of aristocratic elegance and maritime history, where horse-drawn carriages and bicycles replace motorized vehicles. Beautiful boutiques, cosmopolitan restaurants and neoclassical mansions are surrounded by fragrant pine forests with inviting walking trails.

Climb aboard a carriage for a relaxing journey to the historic mansion-turned-museum of Laskarina Bouboulina, a heroine of the Greek War of Independence. Born to a family of wealthy shipowners and traders, Laskarina proved herself a shrewd businesswoman and skilled sailor before the age of 20. When the war erupted in 1821, she used her wealth to finance the construction of ships and personally commanded her own fleet in battle against the Ottoman forces. Laskarina's most notable contribution came when she successfully led the blockade of the fortress of Monemvasia during a siege, a strategic victory that earned her widespread acclaim and admiration.

The museum offers a glimpse into Laskarina's extraordinary life and achievements, showcasing a collection of personal belongings, artifacts and memorabilia belonging to her and her family. Explore the various rooms where Bouboulina lived and worked, and peruse exhibits of weapons, documents and historical artifacts related to her military campaigns.

Return to town for refreshments at a café followed by free time to stroll the promenade and pier.

Bicycles and e-bikes will also be available all day for independent exploration of Spetses.

Your final evening on board, join together for a lively farewell reception and spectacular gala dinner. Reflect upon the enriching experiences of the past week and the indelible memories forged during this romantic odyssey discovering the Greek Isles.
Overnight: Le Ponant (B,L,R,D)

Day 9: Lavrio – Disembarkation | Athens | Depart for U.S.
Saturday, June 21, 2025
After breakfast on the yacht, disembark to connect with the complimentary transfer to the airport for flights home. (B)

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, R = Reception

Tour days tend to be long, flow at a consistent pace and may include long periods of travel. Guests should be prepared to walk longer distances, climb stairs and tolerate periods of standing, for example on city walks, sightseeing stops or excursions, on sometimes uneven surfaces including cobblestones or unpaved pathways and trails. Some destinations may have variations in altitude and/or temperature. Daily pace and timing may vary significantly between longer and shorter travel days, with additional activities possibly occurring in the early morning or evening. Guests are expected to board transportation without assistance. Elevators are not always available at accommodations or sites visited.

• Historic areas are usually more accessible by foot than by vehicle. It may not always be possible for the motor coach to drop guests off at site entrances.