Family Greek Coast Caique Cruise
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable multi-day tour exploring the hidden gems of Greece's Evia Island. This unique journey begins in Athens, where you'll board a ferry to the enchanting island of Evia. Discover the island's authentic charm, from its picturesque fishing villages and secluded coves to its vibrant market towns and sandy beaches. Stay aboard the historic MV Isidoros II, a traditional wooden caique, and enjoy the warm hospitality of your crew. Each day offers new adventures, from swimming in crystal-clear waters and exploring ancient castles to savoring local delicacies at charming seaside tavernas. This tour promises an authentic Greek experience, away from the usual tourist trails, with opportunities to relax, explore, and immerse yourself in the island's rich culture and natural beauty. Join us for a journey that blends relaxation, adventure, and cultural discovery in one of Greece's most captivating destinations.
Included
6 nights on board the MV Isidoros II
1 night at the 3-star Galaxy Hotel, Athens
Please be aware that all accommodations are subject to change until 4-6 weeks before the departure date. Final accommodation details will be provided to you with your finalised travel documents.
For more information about your boat on this tour, please see the transport section below.
Cabin information:
There are two double cabins on the main deck and six twin cabins on the lower deck. Cabins on the lower deck have portholes and cabins on the upper desk have windows. All are en suite. There are no triple cabins available.
MV Isidoros II - Our traditional wooden caique has a large sundeck and a comfortable galley for meals and indoor relaxing. There is also a boat ladder to make the most of swimming opportunities.
There are two double cabins on the main deck and six twin cabins on the lower deck. Cabins on the lower deck have portholes and cabins on the upper desk have windows. All are en suite. Please note we don't have single cabins on board, if you are a family of two, four or six you will all get twin cabins. If you are a family of three or five you will still get twin cabins and there is a very small chance, if the trip is fully booked and we have a number of families of three and five that one of your party will need to share with someone of the same gender and age group (i.e. adults will only ever share with adults or children with children).
The cabins are cosy and can get warm in summer as there is no air-conditioning but each is equipped with a fan and all have power sockets (European 2 pin round).
Bath and face towels are provided on the caique, so there is no need to bring your own. A safe for your personal valuables is available in the wheelhouse of the caique.
While our intention is to adhere to the day-to-day route printed, a degree of flexibility is built into the itinerary. Overnight stops and even islands visited, may vary due to weather, sea conditions and the availability of mooring space in harbours.
A key facet of our responsible approach to tourism is that we encourage our groups to eat in local restaurants that prepare locally grown food. We give customers choice as to their meals and do not use rather bland and impersonal hotel restaurants or all- inclusive options
7 Breakfasts
6 Lunches
vegetarian, vegan, meat
Arrival and departure transfers
All boat fees
There is a chance to swim every day straight from the boat.
The main mode of transport throughout this tour is onboard your boat. You will also use a public ferry for transportation and a private bus with your tour group.
About your boat
The MV Isidoros II is a traditional family-owned wooden caique with just eight guest cabins that Explore exclusively charters. The caique is listed as a historic vessel and there are fewer than 80 of this iconic Greek designed boat left in existence, so being able to stay aboard is a real treat. It was built in 1962 and was originally used as a cargo ferry before being converted in 1974 to the comfortable passenger cruiser it is today.
Our boat has a large sundeck and a comfortable galley for meals. There is a bar where you can purchase a range of local wine and beer, spirits and soft drinks. There is also a boat ladder and snorkelling equipment available on board to make the most of the many swimming opportunities. All of the cosy cabins are en suite with windows and large fans and there is complimentary Wi-Fi on board. Our boat has a real home from home feel and you are free to move around as you please. You can even choose to sleep on deck under the stars if you wish to enjoy the clear night sky and cool night breeze.
Tour Leaders are quite simply the glue that holds our tours together. They are chosen for their travel experience and people skills and are thoroughly trained by Explore, widely acknowledged as some of the best training in the industry. A Tour Leader's ultimate aim is to ensure everyone is well looked after and has a fantastic trip. They are there to ensure that the tour logistics run smoothly, that health and safety are adhered to and provide comprehensive briefings at the beginning and throughout the tour.
Explore leader
Tipping isn't compulsory, and we work hard to ensure that our leaders all receive a fair wage. You may however, want to recognise a leader that has done a great job or really added to your trip by giving them a tip. We're often asked about the recommended amount. It is a tricky one, and down to personal preference, but we would recommend £15 to £20 per person per week as a guideline.
Local crew
Although voluntary, tipping is a recognised part of life in this region of the world. Some local staff will look to members of the group for personal recognition of particular services provided. Accordingly, you should allow approximately £10 of local c urrency per family member.
In order to make things easier for you, the Explore Leader may organise a group's tips kitty and if this is the case, they will account for it throughout the trip.
Destinations
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Athens to Evia
- Athens
- Rafina - Arrival day
- More
- Papagiannakos Winery
- More
Your adventure begins at Athens International Airport, where you'll meet the group and travel by bus to the port of Rafina or Marathon. From there, a ferry will whisk you away to the island of Evia. Upon arrival, a short ride will take you to Karystos, where the MV Isidoros II, a historic wooden caique, awaits. Enjoy a welcome drink and settle into your cozy cabin. The boat, with its sundeck and galley, offers a unique home-away-from-home experience. Explore the island's authentic charm, with its market towns, fishing villages, and stunning beaches.
Day 2 – Day 2: Discovering Panagia
Day 2: Discovering Panagia
- Altar of Freedom
- Church of Agia Marina
- More
Start your day with a hearty breakfast on board before setting sail for Panagia, a quaint fishing village nestled in a fjord. En route, enjoy a refreshing swim in the pristine waters. Once in Panagia, explore the picturesque Church of St Mary and spot terrapin turtles in nearby streams. Lunch features regional specialties, and dinner is at a charming seaside taverna, offering a taste of local cuisine.
Day 3 – Day 3: Exploring Porto Buffalo
Day 3: Exploring Porto Buffalo
- Archaeological Site of Ramnous
- Markopoulo Windmill
- Dragon houses of Styra
- More
Cruise to the Gulf of Evia, where the island separates from the mainland. Visit Porto Buffalo, a quaint fishing village known for its fresh seafood. Spend time at the sandy beach or dive into the turquoise waters from the boat's top deck. Later, return to Panagia and stroll along the coast to the golden sands of Almiropotamos Bay. Weather permitting, enjoy a leisurely cruise back to Panagia.
Day 4 – Day 4: Nea Styra and Marathon Bay
Day 4: Nea Styra and Marathon Bay
- Syntagma Square
- Marathon Run Museum
- More
Sail towards Nea Styra, a region known for its stunning beaches and olive tree valleys. Spend the afternoon exploring the lush landscapes or swimming in the clear waters. As the sun sets, head to Marathon Bay, where the promenade buzzes with life. Enjoy a Mediterranean evening stroll followed by alfresco dining.
Day 5 – Day 5: Figias to Marmari
Day 5: Figias to Marmari
- Marathon Run Museum
- More
Enjoy a leisurely morning before setting sail for Figias and Marmari, a traditional Aegean fishing village. Explore the charming promenade lined with tavernas and cafes. Take advantage of the opportunity to swim and snorkel near the rocky shores, immersing yourself in the vibrant marine life.
Day 6 – Day 6: The Exclusive Petali Islands
Day 6: The Exclusive Petali Islands
- Archaeological Site of Brauron
- More
Cruise to the Petali Islands, a cluster of private islands once the summer retreat of the Greek royal family. Today, it's a playground for the elite, including the Picasso family and other tycoons. Drop anchor and indulge in the luxury of swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on deck. In the late afternoon, sail back to Karystos.
Day 7 – Day 7: Karystos and Beyond
Day 7: Karystos and Beyond
- Archaeological Site of Brauron
- Castello Rosso
- More
Visit the Venetian mountain castle of Castello Rosso, a well-preserved fortress with commanding views. Anchor at Bouros in Karystos Bay for a final swim in the clear Aegean waters. After docking, bid farewell to the crew and spend the night in a waterfront hotel in Karystos. Visit the Montofoli Winery Estate or relax at Kohyli Coves, both within walking distance.
Day 8 – Day 8: Farewell to Greece
- Rafina
- Athens - Departure day
- More
- Church of Agia Marina
- More
Depart Karystos and take a short ride to Marmari or Styra to board the ferry back to Rafina or Marathon. From Rafina, transfer to Athens International Airport, concluding your unforgettable Greek adventure. Ensure your flight departs no earlier than 1:30 pm to accommodate the transfer schedule.
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