Sail Greece: Mykonos to Santorini
8 Days Starting in Mykonos and ending in Santorini
Visiting: Mykonos, Sailing the Greek Islands, Santorini
Tour operator:
Tour code:
ZSRP
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 11
Age range:
15-99 years
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Tour Overview
Move between the boat, the beach and inviting Greek villages on this relaxing eight-day sailing adventure between Mykonos and Santorini. Spend your days swimming in turquoise waters, lazing on white-sand beaches, sampling mouth-watering local cuisine and exploring coastal villages steeped in history, mythology and beauty. Visit the beautiful islands of Amorgos, Naxos, Small Cyclades and Ios, watch a host of spectacular sunsets and enjoy Greek hospitality before returning to the boat to be rocked gently to sleep at night.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Mykonos
Location: Mykonos
Accommodation: Overnight boat
Kalimera! Welcome to Greece. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 4 pm at a restaurant (Cantina Mykonos). The first port of call is the local supermarket to buy supplies for your trip as a group. The starter pack will include provisions for some breakfasts, lunches and/or snacks. If you have any special dietary requirements, please make sure you notify us at the time of booking so we can accommodate your requests. Before or after the meeting, maybe head out to explore Mykonos or unwind on one of the island’s sandy beaches. Perhaps visit the Church of Panagia Paraportiani or browse the galleries, restaurants and boutiques. Tonight, why not grab your fellow travellers and wander down to Little Venice to enjoy a cocktail by the water at sunset.
Day 2-7: Sailing The Greek Islands
Location: Sailing the Greek Islands
Accommodation: Overnight boat
This morning, head for the Bay of Gaidharos for breakfast and a swim, before making your way across the glistening water to Naxos – home to beautiful beaches, fragrant olive groves and the villages of Hora, the capital of Naxos. As the largest Cycladic Island, Naxos also has one of the most colourful mythological histories. The Old Town areas of Hora are perfect for a stroll and some nightlife. Visit the impressive Venetian Kastro, where mansions, monuments and churches all retain their medieval spirit in the winding laneways. Stop by the old Roman Catholic Cathedral in the square, and the nearby Archaeological Museum which is housed in the former Jesuit School of Commerce. The massive Portara stands as the gateway to the unfinished Temple of Apollo on the islet of Palatia, just to the north of the marina. You can also head into the countryside to see local rural life, visit one of the oldest temples in Greece, then chill out in the hills with lunch at a family tavern. Get a taste of the local brew with a shot of Kitron (best described as a lemon liquor) and top it off with a wander along the beach. Over the next few days, you’ll sail to Syros, the Small Cyclades, Amorgos, Ios, then you’ll return to Santorini.
Sail to the island of Syros, dropping by the Bay of Gaidharos along the way for a swim. Known for its relaxed atmosphere and neo-classical architecture, Syros’ neutral role during the Greek Revolution made it a safe haven for the persecuted. You can catch a bus up the hill to the fortress-like village of Ano Syros and explore the town’s stone archways and narrow alleyways (the views of the Aegean are stunning from up here). Sample authentic Greek food and culture in the capital of Syros and the Cyclades, Ermoupoli, and check out the town hall in the main square.
Sail to the Small Cyclades, where only Koufonisia, Iraklia, Schinousa and Donousa have permanent residents. Here, you'll discover clear waters, great beaches, friendly locals and sleepy tavernas all built around the fishing villages. Explore the town, maybe sampling some fresh seafood in a waterfront taverna – a great way to take in the magic of the Mediterranean.
Visit the rugged mountainous island of Amorgos is known as the location of Luc Bresson's film 'The Big Blue'. Amorgos has a history of colonisation and occupation with evidence of a functioning society back as far as 4000 BC. At Katapola, the island's main port, you'll see classic Cycladic architecture with windmills and an old Venetian castle. Stroll the waterfront, explore the ancient Minoan Settlement or visit the village of Hora (Amorgos town), which sits high on the rocky mountainside. Maybe drive up to the 11th-century monastery, Moni Hozoviotissis, built gripping the cliff face with panoramic views across the Aegean Sea.
Continue to Ios, an island inhabited since early Cycladic times, proudly claiming to be the burial place of epic Greek poet Homer. Ios has managed to retain some allure from the abundance of beaches and preservation of its classic cube houses packed around the laneways of Hora. A short walk from the harbour are Hora's shops, restaurants, nightclubs, bars and cafes. If you’re seeking a more authentic taste of the Old Town, explore during the day while the masses are beachside. The popular beaches of Gialos and Milopotas are also lively at night with a range of water sports on offer during the day. Valmas, Kolitzani and Tsamaria are all options if you're looking for something a little quieter. Sunset views can be enjoyed from the hill where Panagia Gremiotissa (the Church of the Virgin) sits. The distinctive single palm tree next to the church makes it an icon you can always see from throughout town.
On your penultimate day, you’ll sail back towards Santorini, spending the final night of the trip in Thirasia. Formed by a huge volcanic explosion, Santorini is instantly recognisable with its blue and white buildings, fascinating ruins and natural beauty. After sailing through the caldera, maybe head to the capital of Fira, sitting the edge of the caldera. Popular for its restaurants, shops and bars, you can make the most of the scenery on a walk along the rim to Firostefani, Imerovigli and Oia. Santorini's volcanic beaches are also a must-see – head to Red Beach or the black beaches of Perissa, Vlhada, Perivolos and Agios Georgios.
Day 8: Santorini
Location: Santorini
Your adventure comes to an end this morning in Santorini at Athinios Port. If you plan to depart today, make sure your flight doesn’t depart until after 4 pm. Your skipper can assist with organizing a taxi to drop you off at your hotel or Santorini Airport. It’s recommend booking a couple of extra night's accommodation to see all the sights that Santorini has to offer – if you do have the time to extend your adventure, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time.
What's Included
What's Not Included
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Tipping and Gratuities
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International Travel
Included Activities
Transport
- This is a sailing adventure so our time is spent on board a monohull yacht. You may be asked to assist on-deck, particularly when coming into or leaving port. No experience is necessary, but getting to know some 'sailing language' might help to get you into the spirit of the adventure.
- Bow - front of the boat
- Stern - rear of the boat
- Port - left
- Starboard - right
- Deck - outside, upper area of the boat
- Hull - the main part or body of the boat
- Keel - part of the boat under water that keeps the boat stable and stops it capsizing
- Mainsail - the large sail attached to the mast and boom
- Mast - the big vertical pole that supports the mainsail
- Boom - the big horizontal pole attached to the mainsail, coming off the rear of the mast (swing from side to side)
- Jib, headsail, genoa, foresail - smaller sail near the front of the boat
- Sheet - ropes used to control the sails
- Booty - another word for pirate treasure
- Lines - other ropes on the boat (ropes are never called ropes on yachts)
- Spinnaker - large extra sail
- Trim the sails - adjust the position of the sails when the wind changes strength or direction
- Tiller or wheel or helm - used to steer the boat
- Helmsman - person steering the boat
- Running - sailing with the wind
- Tack - turning the bow of the boat when sailing through the wind
- Jibe - turning the stern of the boat when sailing through the wind
- Figure-eight knot - the stopper: often used at the end of lines to stop them getting away.
- Bowline (knot) - strong and dependable knot that is commonly used
- Clove Hitch (knot) - not as secure it is often used to attach an object to a line
Accommodation
- This trip is accommodated entirely on board a yacht of between 54ft to 56ft. A typical yacht for 11 travellers is equipped with a mixture of 2 x double cabins, 2 x twin cabins and 1 x triple cabin. There are 5 shared bathrooms. Our boats are real yachts and this is a real sailing trip. Yachts are designed to keep sleeping areas to the absolute minimum of space, while maximising common areas as much as possible.
- Rooms are allocated on arrival by our skipper according to group composition, which means it is not possible to reserve or guarantee any specific berth or cabin. Single passengers will be paired up with another passenger of the same gender, this may mean sharing a double cabin with a double mattress. Everyone including the skipper shares the bathrooms on board.
- While not everyone may feel entirely comfortable living in such close quarters, those who are looking to revel in the adventure and exhilaration of an authentic sailing trip usually find any discomfort from cramped living conditions is more than made up for by the whole experience.
- ADDITIONAL ACCOMMODATION:
- Please note that the majority of our sailing trips start and/or finish at a marina or port. For most of our destinations, we can provide transfers between the airport/hotel and the port/marina. Please check the joining and finish point information in the trip notes for details.
- ELECTRICITY:
- While there should be electricity on board throughout your trip the voltage is likely to vary widely, from 12V to 220V, and when in port or moored we are dependent on the supply available. Please be aware that the supply may not be sufficient to power some electronic devices all the time and that you may need a voltage adapter or similar (such as portable inverter used in cars). On some trips it may be possible to charge devices ashore at restaurants or resorts, however this is not guaranteed.
- WI-FI:
- Please note that our sailing boats do not have Wi-Fi. You will be getting off the boat and visiting towns regularly so you will be able to connect with the outside world then.
Important Information
- START TIME:
- The trip commences on day 1 in Mykonos at 4pm.
- ACCOMMODATION ON BOARD THE YACHT
- This trip is accommodated entirely on board a yacht of between 54ft to 56ft. A typical yacht for 11 travellers is equipped with a mixture of 2 x double cabins, 2 x twin cabins and 1 x triple cabin. There are 5 shared bathrooms. Our boats are real yachts and this is a real sailing trip. Yachts are designed to keep sleeping areas to the absolute minimum of space, while maximising common areas as much as possible.
- Rooms are allocated on arrival by our skipper according to group composition, which means it is not possible to reserve or guarantee any specific berth or cabin. Single passengers will be paired up with another passenger of the same gender, this may mean sharing a double cabin with a double mattress. If you’d prefer not to share a cabin, a single cabin supplement is available at an additional charge. Everyone including the skipper shares the bathrooms on board.
- While not everyone may feel entirely comfortable living in such close quarters, those who are looking to revel in the adventure and exhilaration of an authentic sailing trip usually find any discomfort from cramped living conditions is more than made up for by the whole experience.
- HOT WEATHER:
- Summer temperatures can reach up to 40 degrees Celsius, which can be uncomfortable for those not used to the heat. Please consider the time of the year you wish to travel and your suitability to that season.
- MINIMUM AGE:
- The minimum age on this trip is 15.
- PASSPORT DETAILS:
- Please provide full passport details at time of booking including exact name as per passport, date of birth, nationality, issue and expiry dates as these are essential for booking services on this trip.
- ADDITIONAL ACCOMMODATION:
- Please note that the majority of our sailing trips start and/or finish at a marina or port. If you have pre-booked any additional accommodation through us, you will need to make your own way to the joining point on day 1 and from the finish point on the final day. We do not provide transfers between hotels and the port/marina. Please check the 'Joining Point Description' in the Essential Trip Information for details.
- SNORKELLING
- There are many opportunities for snorkelling during this trip. Diving masks, snorkels and fins are provided onboard the yacht and are for use by all passengers. They are disinfected prior to use. Some customers may prefer to bring their own diving mask and snorkel from home and just use the fins available on board.
- TRIP KITTY:
- On this trip we highly recommend that you contribute to a kitty of EUR100 per person. The kitty is an on-ground payment put into a central fund managed by travellers. It helps fund for breakfast and lunch on the boat and other small items such as ice, water, snacks and drinks. Travellers are responsible for the preparation of these meals onboard and to shop at port where supermarkets are often very close to the mooring. Kitty amounts are subject to change to reflect local price increases. On day 1, the skipper will talk through the kitty and how it will be managed (by yourself or fellow travellers) The kitty will be collected when you arrive at the welcome meeting or in stages throughout your trip.
- ** Please note, the kitty amount should be used as a guide. More than likely you will not spend the full amount recommended however it's advisable to budget for this amount **
Mode of Transport
- This is a sailing adventure so our time is spent on board a monohull yacht. You may be asked to assist on-deck, particularly when coming into or leaving port. No experience is necessary, but getting to know some 'sailing language' might help to get you into the spirit of the adventure.
- Bow - front of the boat
- Stern - rear of the boat
- Port - left
- Starboard - right
- Deck - outside, upper area of the boat
- Hull - the main part or body of the boat
- Keel - part of the boat under water that keeps the boat stable and stops it capsizing
- Mainsail - the large sail attached to the mast and boom
- Mast - the big vertical pole that supports the mainsail
- Boom - the big horizontal pole attached to the mainsail, coming off the rear of the mast (swing from side to side)
- Jib, headsail, genoa, foresail - smaller sail near the front of the boat
- Sheet - ropes used to control the sails
- Booty - another word for pirate treasure
- Lines - other ropes on the boat (ropes are never called ropes on yachts)
- Spinnaker - large extra sail
- Trim the sails - adjust the position of the sails when the wind changes strength or direction
- Tiller or wheel or helm - used to steer the boat
- Helmsman - person steering the boat
- Running - sailing with the wind
- Tack - turning the bow of the boat when sailing through the wind
- Jibe - turning the stern of the boat when sailing through the wind
- Figure-eight knot - the stopper: often used at the end of lines to stop them getting away.
- Bowline (knot) - strong and dependable knot that is commonly used
- Clove Hitch (knot) - not as secure it is often used to attach an object to a line
Check out our Q&As
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Is this trip right for you
As the majority of this trip takes place on a sailing boat, you’ll need to feel comfortable with moving about the vessel, including the use of stairs. With that said, sea legs come naturally to some but not so much for others. Your friendly crew will be able to help with the effects of sea sickness if needed.
Our yachts have a small Zodiac on board, which is used to transport travellers to shore if we need to anchor in the bay. However, we will most often overnight in the small marinas on each island we visit, so the Zodiacs aren’t used. Zodiacs can sometimes be awkward to climb in and out of, but a sense of humour and a can-do attitude are all you need.
This is an adventure on board a real yacht, which means living spaces, cabins, bathrooms and showers need to be shared with other passengers. Sleeping quarters can be quite compact, but you will be spending the majority of your time above board in the open air.
Time on the water also means time in the sun. Remember to pack sun protection, such as sun screen and a hat, and drink plenty of water to keep hydrated. See ‘Essential Trip Information’ below for a full packing list.
Please note that smooth sailing is dependent on the weather, so itinerary changes may occur at the last minute if the weather becomes unfavourable. If any changes are made, you can trust in your knowledgeable skipper to choose an alternative route or activity.
Due to the size of the yachts, sound carries easily from one side to the other and can wake your fellow travellers. If you’re planning to have a late night, it’s a good idea to head into town and experience the local night life. -
What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room
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Free Date Changes
Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.
Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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