Discover the timeless treasures of the Aegean Sea on a small-ship journey through Greece and Turkey. This carefully curated itinerary combines iconic Greek islands including Delos & Mykonos, Syros, Patmos, Naxos and Sifnos with a call at Kusadasi, gateway to the legendary ruins of Ephesus. Enjoy a relaxed yacht-style cruise pace, authentic local culture, striking island scenery and two complimentary shore excursions in Delos and Ephesus.
Day 1: Athens (Lavrio Port) - Syros or Kea — Day 1 | Friday
Begin your Aegean adventure aboard the M/Y Variety Voyager or M/S Panorama. Embarkation Time: 2pm. Enjoy a welcome drink, meet fellow travellers, and set sail for Syros (on VV ship in 2026), the sophisticated capital of the Cyclades. Alternatively visit Kea (on Panorama ship in 2027), a charming, tranquil, and authentic gem of the Cyclades. As the evening unfolds, enjoy a welcome dinner on board, setting the tone for an unforgettable voyage.
Day 2: Delos - Mykonos — Day 2 | Saturday
Explore Delos, the sacred birthplace of Apollo, with its UNESCO World Heritage archaeological site. Spend the morning exploring the archaeological wonders at your own pace or join an optional guided tour to uncover the island’s fascinating stories. Return on board for lunch before sailing to Mykonos, the jewel of the Cyclades. Stroll its whitewashed streets, visit iconic windmills, shop in charming boutiques, and experience vibrant nightlife along the waterfront. Midnight departure for Samos.
Day 3: Samos — Day 3 | Sunday
Arrive in the historic port of Pythagorion, named after the legendary mathematician Pythagoras. Immerse yourself in local history or choose from optional excursions to the Heraion Sanctuary, dedicated to the goddess Hera, and the Monastery of Panagia Spiliani, perched dramatically above the harbour with breathtaking views. After your explorations, enjoy free time to wander the town’s streets, shop for local crafts, or savour a meal at a traditional restaurant. The evening brings the unique charm of Samos, with its quaint streets and welcoming atmosphere. Overnight in port.
Day 4: Kusadasi (Turkey) — Day 4 | Monday
Dock in Kusadasi, your gateway to ancient civilisations. Optional excursions take you to Ephesus, home to the Library of Celsus and a grand Roman theatre. Return to Kusadasi port and enjoy free time to explore the bustling market, where colourful textiles, handicrafts, and aromatic spices create a feast for the senses. Dinner on board and overnight in Kusadasi.
Day 5: Patmos — Day 5 | Tuesday
Visit Patmos, known as the “Island of the Apocalypse”. Optional excursions allow you to visit two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Grotto of the Apocalypse, where Saint John received his visions, and the Monastery of St. John, perched high above the medieval town of Chora. After exploring these historic sites, enjoy lunch at your leisure at one of Patmos’ local tavernas. Later, wander the island’s charming streets, perhaps stopping at local shops or cafés to soak up its serene atmosphere. Dinner will be served on board before departing for Naxos at midnight.
Day 6: Naxos — Day 6 | Wednesday
Arrive at Naxos, the largest of the Cyclades, known for its fertile landscapes and rich cultural heritage. After lunch on board, explore the island’s picturesque villages. Optional excursions take you to Filoti, the largest village, known for its traditional charm; Apeiranthos, a mountainous settlement celebrated for its cultural heritage; and Halki, with elegant neoclassical mansions and the renowned Citrus Museum, where you can savour local citrus liqueurs. In the evening, stroll through Naxos Old Town, savouring local specialities while taking in the unique blend of Venetian and Cycladic architecture. Overnight in port.
Day 7: Sifnos — Day 7 | Thursday
Discover Sifnos, renowned for its traditional villages, stunning architecture, and exceptional cuisine. Take optional excursions or explore the island at your own pace. Lunch at a local taverna lets you savour Sifnos’ renowned specialities, from fresh seafood to traditional pies. In the early afternoon, sail back to Lavrion, reflecting on the rich tapestry of experiences from the past week. Enjoy a relaxed farewell dinner on board as the sun sets over the Aegean.
Day 8: Athens (Lavrio Port) — Day 8 | Friday
After breakfast, disembark between 8:30–9:00 AM. Though your Aegean voyage concludes, the memories, experiences, and friendships you have made will last a lifetime.
Late
availability
Discount up tp 25%
Departures:
Oct: 9,
Operating with Variety Voyager 25% Discount
Early Booking Discount 10% for 2027
Hi
WOW what a super trip. Flights, transfers etc all worked like clockwork. The Galileo is fantastic, really good food, super crew, lovely cabin with excellent air conditioning. There were actually only 19 passengers, which meant there was plenty of space and an almost family atmosphere. I was travelling alone and the only down side was that with such small numbers only one of the excursions went ahead- not really a problem as it made me make a bit more effort and use local buses! Loved the places we visited, so easy to get ashore, had 2 transfers by tender to super beaches and 2 lovely long sessions swimming from the boat. Thank you for your efficient organisation of a holiday that ticked all the boxes.
Best wishes
Jackie Casswell - 13/08/2023
Included in this cruise:
Highlights of the cruise
Discover the ancient ruins of Ephesus in Kusadasi, Turkey
Step ashore in Kusadasi, the gateway to one of the Aegean’s most extraordinary ancient cities. Walk along marble streets where Romans and Greeks once roamed, marvel at the iconic Library of Celsus, and stand in the grand theatre, which once hosted thousands of spectators. Beyond history, Kusadasi offers a vibrant bazaar filled with colourful textiles, handicrafts, and aromatic spices, giving travellers a taste of authentic Turkish culture.
Visit Naxos, the largest island of the Cyclades
Naxos is famous for its fertile landscapes, traditional villages, and rich local culture, making it one of the most authentic islands in the Cyclades. Explore picturesque villages such as Filoti, the largest village with lively squares and strong traditions; Apeiranthos, a mountain village known for its stone architecture and folklore; and Halki, home to elegant neoclassical mansions and the Citrus Museum. Overlooking the harbour, the iconic Portara, a monumental marble gateway of an ancient temple, stands as the island’s most recognisable landmark and a symbol of its ancient history.
Visit the Cyclades & Eastern Aegean Islands
This carefully curated Aegean itinerary combines the beauty of the Cyclades and Eastern Aegean islands, with unforgettable stops in Syros, Mykonos, Naxos, Sifnos, Patmos, and Samos. From whitewashed villages and scenic harbours to charming old towns and authentic local gastronomy, each island reveals a unique side of Greece’s rich culture and island life.
Departure Dates
Travel period: 9 Oct 2026 - 8 Oct 2027
Departure Dates 2026
Oct: 9,
Operating with Variety Voyager 25% Discount
Departure Dates 2027
Apr 30
May: 14
Jul: 2, 30
Sep: 10
Oct: 1, 8
Operating by Panorama
