Route 4: our most easterly cruise
Monday, from Paros to Iraklia
Day one gets off to a gentle start with boarding at 9am. Once on board, everyone discovers their cabin and settles in comfortably. Then it's time to do the shopping to prepare the week's provisions. After a briefing on safety and the basics of navigation, we set sail for Iraklia. The 3-4 hour sail includes a swim and lunch break in a cove between Paros and Antiparos. On arrival, after a series of manoeuvres under sail, the discreet charm of Iraklia harbour is revealed. The program includes a swim on the beach of one of the most beautiful small harbors in the Cyclades, and a hike for the more sporty. In the evening, dinner in a local taverna rounds off this first day. The night is spent quietly in the heart of the little port.
Tuesday, Iraklia to Amorgos
In the morning, we set sail for Amorgos, one of the most mythical and unspoilt islands made famous by the film The Big Blue. A 3-4 hour sail takes us into Katapola Bay. On the way, we pause for a swim and lunch in the heart of Anti-keros. In the afternoon, you can visit the monastery of Hozoviotissa, perched on a cliffside, or stroll through the narrow streets of Chora, one of the most picturesque villages in the Cyclades. In the evening, a dinner, rich in local flavors, concludes this unforgettable day.
Wednesday, from Amorgos to Keros and Kato-Koufonisia
The next morning we'll visit the archaeological site of Minos' vacation home. After lunch on board, we head for Keros, an uninhabited island where we enjoy a swim and lunch in a wild cove with crystal-clear waters. In the afternoon, we reach Kato-Koufonisia, an almost deserted island where absolute calm reigns. Hiking, snorkeling and relaxing are on the agenda before we drop anchor for the night. Dinner is served on board in a convivial atmosphere.
Thursday, from Kato-Koufonisia to Naxos
We wake up at anchor to relax and swim. In the late morning, we set sail for Schinoussa to discover a small hidden cove with turquoise waters. After an hour's sail, we arrive in a well-protected bay to the south of Naxos. After a late-afternoon stroll, we dine in the local taverna to sample the island's specialties. The night is spent in port or at anchor.
Friday, from Naxos to Despotiko
In the morning, we leave Naxos for Despotiko, an uninhabited island with unspoilt beaches and crystal-clear waters. A 3-4 hour sail takes us into a large protected bay, where we enjoy a swim and snorkeling. The sunset over the sanctuary of Apollo is an unforgettable moment. In the evening, a barbecue on the beach or dinner on board marks our last evening together. The night is peaceful under the stars.
Saturday, from Despotiko to Antiparos
On our last day, we sail along the wild and beautiful west coast of Antiparos. The seasoned crew assists with the many maneuvers offered by this sailing area. A final anchorage, an opportunity for a swim and a leisurely lunch on board, gives those who haven't yet cooked a chance to show us their skills. Next, we reach the port of Antiparos for an evening farewell. In the lively alleyways, between stores and tavernas, we savor these last moments together. The night on board is sweet and nostalgic.
Sunday, landing on Paros
In the morning, a short sail takes us back to Parikia, Paros. It's time to pack our bags, take a last look at the boat and get ready to disembark for lunch. Memories of this Santorini sailing cruise remain etched in our hearts, while Paros softly whispers: come back soon.