This gulet cruise takes us through some of the most beautiful and evocative Greek islands. Their strategic location has bequeathed them spectacular fortifications and religious sites of all periods and beliefs, which we will explore at leisure.
Sailing south from Samos, we combine visits to ancient sites with strolls through the modern towns. We’ll explore their winding streets, magnificent views and traditional architecture.
We’ll savour the local Greek cuisine, dining out occasionally in neighbourhood tavernas. Aboard our stylish gulet, we’ll take full advantage of secluded coves perfect for swimming.
This tour introduces you to some of the most impressive aspects of Greek island culture and one of the most complicated historical fault-lines of the eastern Mediterranean. Archaeological highlights abound: from the Asclepieion of Kos, to the tunnel of Eupalinos on Samos, and the medieval castle on Leros.
Day 1: Our boat is about 30 minutes from the airport on Samos, the northernmost of the Greek Dodecanese, in the harbour at Vathi. Welcome drink and dinner on board.
Day 2: A relaxing day’s cruise westwards to the remote and beautiful Fourni islands, giving plenty of time to unwind and enjoy the first swims of the holiday
Day 3: A morning cruise eastwards along the south coast of Samos, followed by an afternoon visit to the most evocative ruins of ancient Samos, the temple of Hera and the tunnel of Eupalinos, before strolling through the town of Pithagorio to have dinner in a local Greek taverna.
Day 4: We head inland to visit the rich archaeological museum in Vathi, before sailing south to the beautiful Greek island of Patmos.
Day 5: A morning visit to the Monastery and cave of St John, where the Book of Revelations was written, followed by an afternoon’s cruise to the pretty island of Leros.
Day 6: We head to the 11th century castle of the Virgin Mary and its breathtaking views over the island, then visit the Leros archaeological museum before sailing south past the island of Kalymnos to Kos, one of the most significant of all the Greek Dodecanese.
Day 7: Inland to one of the greatest healing sanctuaries of the ancient world, the Asklepieion of Kos, and then a chance to explore the castle of the Knights of St John and stroll through the ruins of the ancient capital city.
Day 8: Transfer from our gulet to Kos airport, some 30 minutes away.
