The Cyclades Islands, comprising of more than 30 islands, was the cradle of the first European civilisation 5,000 years ago. Here we also see a truly authentic side of Greece: Gleaming white cube houses with blue shutters and labyrinth-like alleys dominate the architectural character of the islands’ villages and towns. Along the mostly ragged coastlines there are impressive geological formations, turquoise-blue sea, and fantastic sand beaches. 

Experience Greece from its greenest side on the Saronic Islands that lie between the Greek mainland and the Peloponnese. Learn about the Greek Liberation Struggle between 1821 and 1830 without which Greece would not be as we know it today. Experience the fascinating symbiosis of antiquity and modern times by Bike & Boat and delight in the authentic beauty of the Greek Aegean. 

Day 1 (Fri) Athens (Embarkation) 

Individual journey to Marina Alimos/Palaia Faliro. Check-in on the ship is possible from 2 pm onwards. Dinner on board and overnight stay in Athens.

Day 2 (Sat) Kythnos Island (approx. 15 mi./25 km)

Early in the morning we sail to Kythnos Island, famous for its cheese and honey since the antiquity. We begin our first cycling tour in the harbour of Merichas and head towards the island’s capital, Chora. Along the way we can enjoy wonderful, scenic views of the coastline. Chora is a lovely town, situated on a high plateau. The town’s alleys are decorated with painted flowers and geometric patterns. We continue on to the picturesque village of Driopida before returning to Merichas, where we can spend the evening in one of the cosy tavernas.

Day 3 (Sun) Seriphos Island (approx. 17 mi./28 km) – Syros Island

In the morning, our boat takes us to Seriphos, a small island far off the beaten tourist track. The island is characterised by deep valleys, countless bays and coves, and numerous beautiful sandy beaches. From the harbour town of Livadi, we cycle along a serpentine road to the island’s main town of Seriphos, whose cube form houses, nestled into landscape, stretch along the mountain ridge high above the sea. From Seriphos, we continue on through untouched landscape to the Byzantine monastery of the Archangel Michael. We then return to Livadi along a panoramic road on the East coast. In the afternoon the ship takes us to Syros, where we can stroll through the breathtaking old town and round off the day in one of the numerous cafes on the spacious harbour promenade.

Day 4 (Mon) Syros Island (approx. 21 mi./34 km) – Kea Island

The town of Ermoupolis on Syros is the capital town of the Cyclades and offers an unforgettable view upon arrival: The town which is built on two hills is different from the other Cycladic towns. Pastel coloured houses, many of which have classical facades dominant the townscape. We cycle along the coast of Syros which is full of bays and coves along the entire southern half of the island to the beautiful beach of Galissas and then past the convent of Saint Barbara back to Ermoupolis. In the afternoon we continue by boat to the island of Kea.

Day 5 (Tue) Kea Island (approx. 15 mi./25 km)
Our starting point for exploring the north western-most inhabited Cycladic Island is the beautiful natural harbour of Korissia. From here we climb up to the island’s capital Ioulis before continuing on to the white sand Otzias Beach where we enjoy a refreshing swim stop. Afterwards we cycle back to Korissia, and then sail to Poros in the Saronic Gulf in the afternoon. The harbour town of Poros is truly spectacular with its iconic clock tower soaring above the rest of the town. Poros in the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing evening and get lost in the authentic Greek island atmosphere.

Day 6 (Wed) Poros Island (approx. 14 mi./23 km)
Today, we almost completely circle the entire island of Poros, which in ancient times was dedicated to the sea god, Poseidon. Shortly before the end of the tour we arrive at Russian Bay, a sandy beach with turquoise blue waters, the perfect place for a relaxing swim! Once back in Poros, we board the boat and enjoy a delicious midday meal as we cruise to Aegina. 

Day 7 (Thu) Island Aegina (approx. 22 mi./35 km)
The island of Aegina is known far beyond the Greek borders for its incredible pistachio nuts! Today’s bike tour takes us up to the sanctuary of Aphaia, towering high above the azure blue of the sea. The incredibly well-preserved temple is located on the only point on the island where the Aegean Sea can be seen on both sides. On our way back to the boat, we cycle across the middle of the island past the monastery of Nektarios all the way to the town of Aegina. Here we board the boat for our last cruise back to Athens. The last evening on board concludes with a communal dinner and last get-together in a cosy atmosphere with crew, fellow travellers, and tour guides.

Day 8 (Fri) Athens (Disembarkation)

After breakfast check-out and individual return home or extended stay in Athens.

Itinerary changes
The Cyclades are relatively susceptible to wind. Normally this will only result in minor modifications of the tour route. However, should the wind be too strong or dangerous, the travel route may markedly differ from the planned route. Our substitute tour leads through the Saronic Gulf for the entire week, one of the most historic regions of Greece: We would cross between the Greek mainland and the Peloponnese and discover the islands of Aegina, Poros, Hydra, Spetses, and the Methana peninsula. A highlight of this substitute journey is a visit to the ancient Epidauros, home to the best-preserved theatre in Greece.