Cyclades: Dazzling white villages, golden beaches and clear azure water are just the start of what these islands have to offer. Ancient Greek geographers gave this unique cluster of islands the name Cyclades because they saw that they formed a circle ('kyklos" in Greek) of sorts around the sacred island of Delos. According to myth, the islands were the debris that remained after a battle between giants. In reality, they resulted from colossal geological events like earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.
A hidden gem that proves that small is beautiful, and will sweep you off your feet with its beauty, charm and relaxing rhythm. A few years ago, Folegandros was a well-kept secret, known to a discerning few. Now, more and more people are discovering this tiny, remote island with its rugged beauty and easy pace. Its main town, Hora, teeters precariously on the edge of a high cliff with its many squares framed by graceful, typically Cycladic church facades and old-fashioned tavernas.
Imagine a place far from home that feels just like home, where the borders are delineated by the golden shores of the sea; and home is wherever the anchors drop. Imagine 157 feet of comfort, old style beauty, and safety classified by the latest International “Safety of Life at Sea” (SOLAS) standards. You have arrived on board the Galileo!
A paradise on earth awaits. Poliegos is the biggest uninhabited island in the Mediterranean and a veritable ecological haven. It provides shelter to rare species of flora and fauna while its gorgeous beaches and its exotic bays attract yacht owners from all over the world.
The adventure begins. Join us on board as you get to know your home at sea, and fellow travellers, over a welcome drink. We’ll set sail for Poros, arriving just in time for dinner. Relax or enjoy an evening walk, before our overnight journey to Poliegos.
Wake up in uninhabited Poliegos. The hardest decision you’ll make today is whether to jump into the sea, or to enjoy breakfast on deck. We recommend you do both. In the afternoon we’ll sail to Folegandros to explore the town and Venetian castle, before tasting traditional Greek food in one of the local tavernas. Overnight in Folegandros.
Santorini calling. We’ll arrive early with plenty of time to explore the capital, Fira, as well as the smaller village of Oia with its blue-domed views over the caldera. This is the place to get those Instagram shots. Optional tour of the archaeological site, Akrotiri. As evening falls, enjoy the world-famous Santorini sunset with sundowners on deck. Tonight, it’s time to show off your dance skills at our Greek Night. Overnight in Santorini.
Today we’ll sail to Paros, with a quick stop in a beautiful bay on neighboring Antiparos. Yes, you’re welcome to dive in. In Paros, explore both the port city of Parikia, and Naoussa - a quaint, and incredibly photogenic village in the north. In the evening you will have time to enjoy your dinner in a tavern overlooking the sunset. Overnight in Paros.
Before waving ahoy to Mykonos, we’ll stop for a few hours at sacred Delos. The island is an archaeological site, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Join us on a guided tour before we sail to more hedonistic Mykonos. Here, the night is yours. Join the jet-set and vibe at the hottest bars and restaurants. Overnight in Mykonos - in case you don’t want to leave the party early!
Wake up and refresh with a morning dip in the sea then all aboard for the trip to Syros, the capital of the Cyclades. Here you can relax, rest, and rejuvenate on the beach, or you can take part in our optional tour and explore the town and its unique architecture. Overnight in Syros.
We begin our journey back to Athens, with a last opportunity to jump into the inviting sea at Kolones Bay, Kythnos. Dry off as we sail towards Cape Sounion to view the Temple of Poseidon from the sundeck. On arrival back at Marina Zea, enjoy a Captain's Farewell Dinner before bedding down for one more night on board.
Breakfast and disembarkation at 8.30-9am. But this is not goodbye. We’re sure your cabin mates have become friends you’ll stay in touch with. As for us - we hope this is only bye for now, and that we’ll see you on one of our cruises again soon.
In case of severe weather conditions our expertly designed routes are adjusted ensuring your safety & comfort by applying our rich marine knowledge, garnered since 1949. Stay flexible – Adventure on.