Jewels of the Cyclades
Enjoy an 8-day cruise to all the Jewels of the Cyclades. Sail round-trip from Athens, Greece, stopping at Santorini, Delos, Mykonos, the old Greece atmosphere of Folegandros, and more. Swim in secluded bays right from your small ship.
The 8-day Jewels of the Cyclades cruise begins and ends in Athens, Greece, showcasing Aegean Islands known for their whitewashed villages and ports, bright skies and crystal-clear waters. Optional activities allow guests to explore with a guided group or on their own, while touring the unbeatable Greek Isles.
Santorini is famous for sunsets, sugar cube villages and the historical site of Akrotiti. Mykonos is known as the queen of the Aegean, and nearby Delos, Apollo’s sacred island, is a fascinating open-air museum and UNESCO World Heritage site. At Folegandros, a truly authentic, off-the-beaten-path island, visit a famous Venetian castle and traditional, welcoming Greek taverns. Immerse in the fairytale town of Paros with charming fishing ports and local people. And tour Syros, the capitol of the Cyclades, overflowing with perfect sand beaches and unique architecture.
Passage is aboard one of three yachts: 44-guest Harmony G, 49-guest Galileo or Panorama. Enjoy welcoming spaces including the bar, lounge, dining area and outdoor Sun Deck, plus an easy swim step for secluded swim stops. These ships live up to their name with sweeping sight lines. Soak up some rays from a lounge chair on teak decks. When the weather permits, appreciate the elegance of full sails on the motorsailers, or enjoy a dip in the sea at secluded bays and beautiful uninhabited islands, from the swimming platform on the stern. Optional activities may be added on to the voyage at an additional price, or simply enjoy time in port on your own.
Whatever optional activities you choose, experience the Jewels of the Cyclades at your leisure. Call the experts at AdventureSmith Explorations for recommendations on which activities may best suit your travel interests and book your Greek small ship cruise of a lifetime!
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Greece small ship cruises and small ship Mediterranean cruises.
Jewels of the Cyclades Itinerary
The 8-day Jewels of the Cyclades cruise begins and ends in Athens, Greece, showcasing Aegean Islands known for their whitewashed villages and ports, bright skies and crystal-clear waters.
Embark today between 2:00 and 3:00pm from Marina Zea in Piraeus, Athens, Greece. Enjoy a welcome drink and meet the crew and fellow passengers. Athens, the capital and largest city in Greece, is a bustling and cosmopolitan metropolis, and is one of the world’s oldest cities. Its recorded history spans at least 3,000 years and it boasts ancient monuments and works of art, the most famous of all the Parthenon on the Acropolis. In the afternoon, sail for Poros for a short 3-hour visit, before setting sail to Poliegos. Overnight at sea.
This morning, arrive in Poliegos, a very small island known for its amazing beaches. Enjoy a morning swim stop followed by a BBQ on deck. This afternoon, sail to Folegandros, one of the most amazing and less known islands in the Aegean Sea, where three small villages, Chora, Karavostassis and Ano Meria, are connected by a paved road. Walk the amazing Upper city and dine at one of the traditional Greek tavernas. Overnight in Folegandros.
Early this morning, depart for the volcanic island of Santorini, with the biggest caldera of the world. Today’s shape of the island is a result of a huge eruption followed by a catastrophic explosion in the 16th century, which had destroyed the island and the city of the Cycladic Civilization. Upon this morning’s arrival at Santorini, explore its capital Fira. Take an optional excursion to the Akrotiti excavations and a tour of the villages (added cost), including the small beautiful village of Oia known for its breathtaking view over the caldera. Overnight in Santorini.
In the morning, enjoy a swim stop in an enchanting bay of Antiparos before arriving in Paros around noon. Visit Parikia and the quaint village of Naoussa. In the evening, get ready for a fun night and show off your dancing skills during the ship’s famous Greek Night. Overnight in Paros.
This morning, consider an optional morning tour to the archaeological site of Delos, antiquity’s most sacred island. Except for the guards and guides, the island is uninhabited. According to the Greek Mythology, Leto, haunted by jealous Hera, had found asylum on this island to give birth to Zeus’s children, Apollo and Artemis. Apollo became one of the most important gods and so Delos became a great sacred place for worshiping him. Later on, stop at one of Mykonos’s beautiful bays for swimming off the ship before sailing into the port of Mykonos. The island of the jet setters is yours to explore and the night is young. Overnight in Mykonos.
After a morning swim, arrive in Syros, the capital of the Cycladic islands, which was the largest cultural and trade center of the Aegean in the 19th century. From the time of the Fourth Crusade (13th Century) until 1568, Syros belonged to the Duchy of Naxos. After that period the island had a significant Roman Catholic minority which was under the protection of France from piracy and during the Turkish occupation. Spend the day strolling along one of many beautiful sandy beaches or walking through town and admiring the architecture. Overnight in Syros.
In the morning, arrive in Kythnos for a swim in Kolones Bay. Kythnos, or Thermia, is part of the Western Cyclades and is considered an unspoiled island with very friendly locals. Its major attraction is a fairly well-known healing thermal spa that attracts many Greeks and foreign visitors. The colorful quaint villages of Kythnos, with their traditional houses and the peaceful landscape, will not disappoint. Set sail for Marina Zea for a later afternoon arrival via Cape Sounion, the temple of Poseidon. This evening, be treated to the captain’s farewell dinner and overnight in Marina Zea.
After breakfast, disembark at 8:30-9:00am at Marina Zea, Piraeus, Athens, Greece, and transfer to the airport for flights home.
Included
Accommodations in double or twin cabins with private bathroom and air conditioning; half-board: buffet breakfast and one meal daily, including welcome cocktail, local themed evening, fun BBQ (weather permitting) and captain’s dinner; regular filter coffee, tea and drinking water free all day; use of fishing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and snorkeling equipment (subject to availability) & beach towels; English-speaking cruise escort.
Exclusions
Airfare; port charges ($385 per person in 2026); beverages (except those mentioned above); personal expenses such as laundry, boutique items, etc.; gratuities; insurance of any kind; medical expenses; shore excursions; use of onboard WiFi (available at a charge); expenditures incurred ashore; and anything not mentioned in cruise program. All onboard charges are in Euros.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 120 days – € 80 (Euro) / US $100 per person cancellation fee*
119 to 90 days – 20% of total trip cost
89 to 60 days – 35% of total trip cost
59 to 45 days – 50% of total trip cost
44 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
*The cancellation fee will be converted into a future cruise credit, redeemable for bookings made up to 12 months after cancellation, valid for use on any cruise with this operator.
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The Jewels of the Cyclades cruise begins and ends in Athens, Greece (ATH). Plan flights to arrive to Athens, Greece, by 10:00am on Day 1 of the itinerary. Plan flights to depart Athens, Greece, no earlier than 1:00pm on the final day. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Activities
Activities aboard include swimming, kayaking and snorkeling from the vessel. Shore excursions are not included in this cruise’s listed rates. This helps keep the cruise fare low while providing flexibility for guests to choose the tours they wish or to explore independently. Shore excursions are available per the cruise schedule and ports of call visited. Contact an AdventureSmith Specialist for the most up-to-date information regarding shore excursions prior to departure. Details are also available upon embarkation in your cabin and are reviewed daily by the onboard Cruise Coordinator. We find that most guests prefer to wait until they are on board to purchase shore excursions to take advantage of local conditions. Shore excursions are subject to shore and weather conditions and based on a minimum participation.
Room Configuration
Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at a 60% supplement of the per-person listed rate in Category C and B cabins (also Category A cabins aboard Harmony G), or 75% supplement for Category A cabins (Category P cabins aboard Harmony G), upon availability. Third person rates are available at 30% reduction of the double occupancy rate in Category A (Galileo), Category B (Panorama), or Category C (Harmony G) cabins.
Families & Children
Children 5 years and older at time of travel are welcomed on this cruise. Families with children 5-17 years old are eligible for the following special offers on select departures, upon request and on first-come, first-served basis. For a single parent with 1 or 2 children in the same cabin, the parent pays the Single cruise fare and children cruise for free. For a couple with 1 child sharing the same cabin, a child 5-10 years old is free and a child 11-17 years old receives a 50% fare reduction. For a couple with 2 or 3 children, both cabins will be charged at the Single cruise fare. Port charges are not discounted and apply for all passengers, but optional excursions for children are offered at a 25% reduction.
Travel Insurance
Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Read this itinerary as a guide only; swim stops and barbeques are weather permitting. Itineraries can be changed at the discretion of the cruise operator and of the vessel’s captain in case of adverse weather conditions (winds of 6/7 beaufort or more depending on the vessel), on port authorities not allowing a vessel to leave port or in case of other extraordinary conditions. Such itinerary changes do not entitle passengers to any refunds, but the cruise operator guarantees that passengers are disembarked at the advertised port of disembarkation on time for their flights.
Mediterranean Cruise Ships
The vessel listed in Cruise Rates & Dates is the primary small ship operating the selected departure of the Jewels of Cyclades cruise; however, the operator reserves the right to substitute another comparable vessel in certain instances.
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Discover the three-masted motorsailer Panorama, which can accommodate up to 49 passengers in 24 cabins. This state-of-the-art motorsailer has completed several Atlantic Ocean crossings and has sailed from the Seychelles to Monte Carlo and from the Black Sea to Tunis. Panorama boasts being one of the largest Greece-based megayachts available for charter cruise.
Panorama Review
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Panorama review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Our small ship cruise experts have been aboard the Panorama firsthand. Please read our Panorama review below then contact our small ship cruise experts to compare the Panorama with other small cruise ships offering small ship Mediterranean cruises and small ship Greece cruises.
The Panorama lives up to her name with sweeping sight lines from two upper decks. Soak up some rays from a lounge chair on her teak decks. When the weather permits, appreciate the elegance of the Panorama's full sails. While not a luxury cruiser, the Panorama is warmly decorated with gold and wooden interiors and she is sure to charm.
Common Areas Aboard Panorama
During the day, life on board the Panorama centers around the outdoor areas: the two bars and the Sun Deck with a sitting area to relax and enjoy unobstructed views, bask under the sun, read a good book or just gaze at the scenery. In the evening relax in one of the ship's two lounges or the mini library and have a drink while you listen to the piano music or watch a nightly film. The swimming platform on the Panorama's stern enables swimming in the sea at secluded bays and beautiful uninhabited islands when weather and anchorage conditions permit. Meet the officers and captain to learn about the Panorama's navigation aboard the open bridge. Wi-Fi is available at an extra cost.
Dining Aboard Panorama
The classy dining room is surrounded by large windows that provide beautiful views of the ports of call. All passengers are accommodated in a single, unassigned seating. Breakfast and lunch are served on the state-of-the art hot & cold buffet, which also includes an “a la minute cooking” section. For dinner, enjoy an elegant five-course meal with options for meat or fish. Vegetarian and diabetic-sensitive fare can be accommodated when requested in advance. A wide variety of dishes, both international and locally inspired, are created by the onboard chef. Filtered coffee, tea and water are available all day and water will be served with dinner.
Activities Aboard Panorama
When weather permits, indulge in a swim off the swimming platform at the back of the boat. Snorkel gear is available for those curious about what lies under the water’s surface. Paddlers can opt to go kayaking as well. Comfy beach towels and inviting board games await back on board.
Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard Panorama
The Panorama cabins are located on all three decks and are finished with wooden furniture and light fabrics. Cabins on the Upper and Main Decks are equipped with windows while cabins on the Lower Deck have portholes. The fully-equipped bathrooms are finished with marble or Corian. All cabins are air-conditioned and fitted with flat-screen TV, telephone (for internal use), hairdryers, mini-fridge, piped-in music via the public address system, 220v electrical outlets and safe boxes.
The 44-guest Harmony G is a sleek mega-yacht cruising in the Mediterranean region. She was launched in January 2001, most recently renovated in 2023, and complies with the most stringent SOLAS safety regulations. Her powerful engines and state-of-the-art stabilizers allow for safe and comfortable cruising.
Harmony G Review
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Harmony G review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Our small ship cruise experts have been aboard nearly every first-class vessel in the Mediterranean. Please read our Harmony G review below then contact our small ship cruise experts to compare the Harmony G with other small cruise ships offering Mediterranean cruises and Greece small ship cruises.
Choose the Harmony G for her relaxed and classic atmosphere, perfect for a small ship. During the day life on board centers around the bar, lounge, dining area and outdoor Sun Deck. The captain drops anchor at secluded bays and beautiful uninhabited islands where, weather permitting, guests enjoy swimming, snorkeling and kayaking.
Common Areas Aboard Harmony G
The interior lounge has relaxing couches and comfortable chairs where guests can have a drink and gaze out from the large windows, or watch television and regional documentaries on the satellite TV. A spacious Sun Deck provides the ideal spot to bask under the Mediterranean sky, read a good book in the shade or just gaze at the landscapes. The swimming platform at the stern enables jumping into the water when weather and anchorage conditions permit.
Dining Aboard Harmony G
The dining room is on the Main Deck surrounded by large windows providing beautiful views of the ports of call. Weather permitting, meals may be served al fresco in the outdoor dining area located on the Upper Deck. All guests are accommodated at one single seating and are offered a high standard of cuisine, always with some local flavor. Special dietary requests can be accommodated with advance notice.
Activities Aboard Harmony G
Greet the day with a splash into the crystal clear blue seas from the comforts of Harmony G’s swimming platform, enabling easy access into and out of the water. Take advantage of onboard snorkeling equipment, kayaks and beach towels for additional water-based exploration. Back on the ship, board games help entertain between exciting activity stops.
Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard Harmony G
Cabins on the Upper and Main Decks feature windows while cabins on the Lower Deck are equipped with portholes. The 21 classic cabins are finished with wood paneling, bright carpets and warm fabrics creating an upscale and comfortable atmosphere. All cabins feature two twin or one double bed, with Upper Deck cabins featuring flexible bed configurations. Common to all cabins are a private ensuite bathroom with shower, as well as flat-screen TV (satellite channels), CD/DVD player, music channels, mini bar/refrigerator, individually controlled A/C, direct dial telephone (for internal use), safe deposit boxes, adapters (220v) and hair dryers.
The 157-foot, 49-guest Galileo is a classic steel-hull motorsailer cruising the Greek Isles, offering the best of the Mediterranean: sun, sea, sand and history. This stunning vessel was built with the most stringent safety regulations. First launched in 1992, she was fully rebuilt in 2007 and most recently renovated in 2016. Significant upgrades to the guest accommodations, indoor and outdoor public areas make her a delightful motorsailer for cruising the Mediterranean.
Why Sail Aboard M/S Galileo
The Galileo is one of our most popular small ships cruising the Mediterranean, and for many reasons. Although she is a motorsailer, she has the charm of a historic Mediterranean sailing vessel. She primarily cruises under power, with sails raised occasionally when weather and route allow. Being Greek-owned and operated since 1992, she brings a lot of history and a connected, authentic crew. Her itineraries focus solely on the best of the Greek Islands. At only 157 feet, she can dock right downtown in small ports that are off limits to big cruise ships. And she's small enough to visit authentic small ports like Folegandros, Paros and Syros that highlight Greece’s archeological treasures and fascinating culture. Further, her operator offsets her carbon emissions.
Consult this page for a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Our expedition cruise experts have been aboard the Galileo firsthand. Read our Galileo cruise ship review, or let us help you compare this ship with other small cruise ships that offer small ship Mediterranean cruises and Greek Island small ship cruises.
Common Areas Aboard Galileo
During the day, life on board centers around the indoor lounge area and dining room, as well as the outdoor areas at the Main, Upper and Sun Decks. Renovated in 2016, the Main Deck lounge area with an American bar leads into a warm and elegant dining room finished with wood and carpet flooring, and beautiful soft fabrics.
The indoor lounge is air conditioned for hot days and the outdoor lounge provides excellent views, especially when under sail. Guests on Galileo very much enjoy the shaded outdoor area with an outdoor bar where they can relax enjoying the most breathtaking sea views. In the evening, guests watch the sunset and enjoy a drink under the stars.
Dining Aboard Galileo
The spacious dining room seats all passengers in a single, unassigned seating and allows for spectacular views while dining in an elegant environment. Food is served at the table or presented on the state-of-the-art hot & cold buffet, which also includes an “a la minute cooking” section. Menus are a mix of traditional Greek dishes and international fare. Expect offerings that include meat, chicken or fish, but special dietary requests can be accommodated with advance notice.
Special dining events include a captain's dinner, deckside BBQ lunch and Greek Night featuring traditional recipes like moussaka, dolma, spanakopita and souvlaki. And most cruise routes are half-board, meaning you'll dine on your own at port for half the meals.
Activities Aboard Galileo
The captain will drop anchor at secluded bays and beautiful uninhabited islands where, weather permitting, guests may enjoy swimming, snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking. The stern's classic wooden ladder invites a dip at regular intervals. Back on the ship, board games help entertain between exciting activity stops.
The Greek crew of 16-18 ensure excellent customer service and insight. Aboard Galileo you’ll arrive early and stay late avoiding the big ship crowds. Optional tours are small and intimate with exceptional local guides. And your cruise director will customize each experience based on conditions and have access to skip the lines museums and archeological sites.
Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard Galileo
The M/S Galileo’s 24 outside guest cabins are located on Upper and Lower Decks, all with portholes. Elegantly decorated, they have either two twin or one double bed and bathrooms with showers en suite. All cabins are fully air-conditioned and offer storage space, mini safes, mini fridges, hair dryers, radio music controls and telephones (for internal use). Limited laundry service is available.
Current Deals on This Trip
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Learn About the Small Ships on Your Itinerary
This three-masted motorsailer cruiser has performed several Atlantic Ocean crossings and sailed from the Seychelles to Monte Carlo and from the Black Sea to Tunis.
The Harmony G is a modern, elegant yacht with a sleek look similar to private yachts found in famous ports around the Mediterranean. Her powerful engines and state-of-the-art stabilizers allow for safe and comfortable cruising.
The Galileo is a steel-hull motorsailer cruising the Greek Isles in classic style. Enjoy the best of the Mediterranean aboard this stunning vessel.
Hear It from Travelers Who Have Explored with Us
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Reviews from Our Experts & Travelers So You Know What to Expect
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Expert Aboard: Galileo Cruise Ship Review
Read a Galileo cruise ship review that includes insight from our expert aboard, as well as ratings from our travelers who’ve also sailed on this ship. Learn what makes this ship so special that our travelers ask for it by name.
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Jewels of Cyclades Greece Cruise Review
A couple sails aboard the 49-guest Galileo motor sailor in remembrance of their Greece honeymoon cruise 21 years prior. The classic Galileo ship turned out to age like a fine wine, creating a new opportunity for a family vacation.
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