IONIAN ODYSSEY
A voyage combining both Ionian Jewels and Ionian Gems itineraries
The term ‘Odyssey’ comes from the fact that, following the Trojan War, Odysseus was cursed by the great God of the sea Poseidon to sail for 10 years. This voyage isn’t quite that long! But, if you fancy an extended Ionian adventure, then this is the cruise for you – a 15-day extravaganza of Ionian highlights. A combination of our Ionian Jewels and Gems itineraries, it even visits Odysseus’ home island of Ithaka.
The two different 8-day cruises sail out of Lefkas so, depending on when you join the cruise, it may head south or north the first week, but here is the total itinerary assuming you head north to start with.
Embarkation at 15:00. Enjoy a welcome drink with your fellow travellers and get to know your crew. In the evening enjoy your first dinner on board.
In the morning we cross the Lefkas Canal and sail towards Preveza via a swimstop in a beautifully secluded bay. In Preveza you can join an excursion to the ancient fortified city of Nicopolis and its museum and still have free time to explore. Tonight get ready to eat Greek delicacies and learn how to dance the Syrtaki – it is Greek Party Night.
Arrival in the morning in the magnificent village of Parga with its beautiful turquoise waters where we will drop our anchor. Parga is a true undiscovered gem and our excursion visits the Venetian castle. In the late afternoon we will set sail for our Beach Barbeque on a beautiful stretch of sand.
Arriving in Corfu after breakfast we moor-up all day so you have sufficient time to explore the largest and most famous island of the Ionian, with its Venetian, French and British cultural heritage. Visit the old Venetian Fortress and lose yourself in the narrow streets of the old town or take a can to Palaikastritsa – a beauty spot on the west coast. Later we will be waiting for you for a wonderful dinner on board with the option to head into town to enjoy the bustling night life.
After breakfast jump in the crystal blue waters of Syvota bay, a place you will forever cherish then take one of our SUPs or a Kayak to explore. Enjoy the wonderful village with its lush green pine trees and wonderful beaches or take a trip to the ancient site known as the Gates of Hades.
First we head for Antipaxos , a beautiful unspoiled island. For a swim and time lazing on the beach. After lunch we will slowly set sail for the island of Paxios arriving late afternoon in Gaios port, a true timeless gem with a lovely promenade.
As we head for the town of Nydri on Lefkas cruise past Skorpios the famous private island of Aristotle Onassis. Nydri has a picturesque promenade and some great tavernas for lunch. Walk to the nearby waterfalls to work up an appetite. In the late afternoon we set sail for Lefkas town. Tonight is our Captain’s Dinner where we will enjoy one last meal together and toast that we meet again soon.
Day at leisure to explore the town or perhaps head up into the hills as we await the arrival of new shipmates. Embarkation at 15:00. Enjoy a welcome drink with your new fellow travellers in preparation for their first dinner on board.
After breakfast swim in the crystal blue waters of Meganisi or take one of our SUPs or a Kayak to explore the coves of this quiet place with its lush green pine trees. Find a nice taverna for lunch but don’t eat too much – tonight is our Greek Party Night where you get to try local delicacies and dance the Syrtaki.
Sailing in the wake of the legendary Odysseus we arrive at his home island of Ithaka sometime after lunch having stopped for a swim. Homer wrote a lot about Ithaka and it’s easy to see why he was so taken with it. We’ll have time to chill-out in the village of Vathy and have dinner in one of its traditional tavernas.
Our route takes us past the famous blue caves of Zante, a breath-taking site where you can enjoy a swim or snorkel in the beautiful bay. In the late afternoon we arrive in Zante town, and you have the chance to stroll around town or rent a scooter and explore. In the evening check out the waterfront and have dinner in one of the tavernas along the promenade.
A longer beat today with a swimstop in turquoise waters and a barbeque lunch on board before arriving late afternoon. Kefalonia is famously the island where the movie 'Captain Corelli's Mandolin' was filmed. The delightful waterfront and yacht harbour give the village a unique charm and reflect the rich heritage of the island. A visit to the nearby Melisani cave with its underwater lake and stalactites is a must. Sami is surrounded by a dream landscape of verdant imposing hills and stunning coves. Enjoy a wonderful dinner in town.
We set sail after breakfast on the way towards Fiskardo, via a swimstop arriving in this picturesque fishing village in the afternoon. Fiscardo is recognized as a traditional preservable settlement as it is one of the few villages that remained untouched from the major earthquake of 1953. Today it is known for its cosmopolitan and warm atmosphere which you’ll find at first hand in the tavernas over dinner.
We depart Fiscardo heading for Lefkas and the natural harbour of Syvota. The harbour is a quiet spot during the day, but a much-loved destination for yacht owners. The picturesque waterfront is lined with fish taverns and restaurants, perfect for lunch. We set sail for Lefkas town in the late afternoon and tonight is our Captain’s Dinner where we will enjoy one last meal together and toast that we meet again soon.
Disembarkation after breakfast.
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