Ancient Paths - 8 Days Peloponnese & Ionian


from$ 4327 AUD



Note: Current p/p indicative rate. Final price may change due to currency fluctuations.

Ship
Elysium
City
Lavrion to Lavrion


Overview

Steeped in awe-inspiring ancient civilization, filled with history, wisdom, myths and passions, the route around the Peloponnese, Ithaca and beyond is a captivating journey. The Peloponnese, a mythic land of Gods and heroes and unsurpassed natural beauty. Sprinkled with cypress trees, olive groves, vineyards, beautiful sandy beaches and emerald blue waters. Littered with Mycenaean palaces, Byzantine cities, Ottoman, Frankish and Venetian fortresses. Zakynthos, with its iconic Navagio cove, repeatedly voted best beach in the world. Ithaki, the epic homeland of Odysseus, still as romantic and seductive as ever. The impressive narrow Corinth Canal, it’s crossing plain mesmerizing. This is the stuff of legends, an experience that will stay with you forever.

Overview

  • ANTEX
  • 8 Days
  • Elysium

Cruise Itinerary

  • Lavrion (Greece)
  • Lavrion (Greece)

Departures

Note: Current p/p indicative rate. Final price may change due to currency fluctuations.

Cruise Itinerary

Embarkation at Lavrion port between 14:00-15:00. Enjoy a refreshing welcome cocktail during your check-in. Evening arrival at the Saronic island of Hydra. Hydra is an architectural reserve, free of motor vehicles, and summer home to many international celebrities. Dinner on board the Elysium and overnight at Hydra.


In the morning we set sail for the Peloponnese. Swim stop at Fokianos, a beautiful sheltered bay with crystal-clear waters. Lunch on board the Elysium. Late afternoon we arrive in the uniquely preserved medieval town of Monemvasia. Explore its fairytale-like beauty and walk its narrow, pebbled alleys. Join our optional historical tour and opt to hike up to the church of Hagia Sofia, among the oldest Byzantine churches in Greece. The windswept panorama of the Aegean sea from atop the cliff is mesmerising. Overnight in Monemvasia.


Morning arrival off the coast of southern Laconia at Pavlopetri, one of the oldest submerged cities in the world. Snorkelling or diving at the spectacular UNESCO Bronze age city site is an impressive addition to any true traveler’s journal. Just across from Pavlopetri lies the tiny Elafonisos, a dream of an island, with sand hills and turquoise tropical waters. Swim ashore or let our tender take you to this magical beach, a NATURA protected habitat. Lunch and dinner on board. Overnight at sea.


Early morning arrival at Katakolon port, our base to explore the birthplace of the Olympic Games. The UNESCO world heritage site of ancient Olympia will transport you to a different era. To this day the Olympic flame is lit from the rays of the sun, at the Temple of Hera and passed on by a high priestess. Take our optional historical tour to visit its archaeological sites and museums. Late afternoon we set sail for Zakynthos. Enjoy a swim at Vasilikos beach, visit the authentic villages in the area or opt for a horse-riding experience before we sail to the main port of Zakynthos. Discover the famous vibrant town, also known as Zante. Dinner on board the Elysium and overnight at port.


Morning arrival at the stunning world-famous “Navagio” beach. Also known as “smuggler’s” cove, it has repeatedly been voted most beautiful beach in the world. Jump off the Elysium platform into the milky blue waters or let us take you onshore to enjoy the soft white sand beach and have a close-up look of the shipwreck. Lunch on board. Late afternoon we depart for Ithaca, the mythical island of Odysseus. Enjoy a chilled glass of wine or a cocktail next to the waves at the port of Milos, the heart of the nightlife in Ithaca. Overnight at Vathy port in Ithaca.


Wake up in Ithaca. Optional excursions to the Archaeological Collection of Stavros, which houses findings from excavations in the wider region of Stavros and northern Ithaca or to the small and peaceful Kathara Monastery high up on a mountain. The views on the way back to Vathy port are staggering. In the afternoon we set sail to Gidaki, a stunning beach with emerald green waters, one of the most beautiful in the Ioanian sea. Late evening departure for Itea. Dinner on board the Elysium and overnight at sea.


Early morning arrival in Itea, the perfect base for exploring Delphi and the beautiful Galaxidi, with our optional historical tours. The ancient sanctuary of Delphi, dedicated to the God Apollo, was considered the “navel of the world” and from there the Oracle and high priestess Pythia gave her prophecies. The romantic and tranquil town of Galaxidi has a rich maritime history and was once one of Greece’s wealthiest ports and shipyards. Beautiful neoclassical architecture and pebble covered courtyard are immaculately preserved to this day. Return to the Elysium and enjoy a cocktail as you experience the unforgettable crossing of the narrow Corinth Canal. Farewell dinner on board.


Disembarkation at Lavrion port after breakfast, until 10:00.


Itineraries are subject to change.


Elysium

Vessel Type: Boutique Cruise Ship / Yacht Lenght: 63.8m Passenger Capacity: 48-58 Never before has there been a truly boutique cruise ship dedicated to a synergy of wellbeing and immersive travel. Your time on board the Elysium will be nothing short of unique, nothing like you have ever experienced before on a cruise. A fusion of relaxation, wellness, discovering and fun. Visit pristine coves and beaches only accessible by yacht, discover ancient civilisations, learn a new craft, have a massage, meditate at sunset, enjoy a chilled drink, hike a volcano, fish with locals, snorkel, stargaze, read a book. You decide. The Elysium awaits to soothe your soul and excite your senses. With only 25 elegantly decorated and spacious cabins, large interior and exterior areas, a spa, a gym, deliciously healthy Mediterranean cuisine and an array of daily activities, the Elysium will pamper you, spoil you and transform you forever. CABINS 25 spacious, stylish cabins, 5 different categories depending on location and size. Comfortable bathrooms with shower, plush towels and lavish, organic bath amenities. AMENITIES Twin or queen-sized bed with plush mattress, snuggly all-season duvet, pillow menu and flat screen TV with movies, news and bridge channel. Mini Bar. Personal safe. Wi-Fi. Individually controlled A/C. Hair dryer. Telephone for internal use. Lavish bath products. Spa robes and slippers. Beach towels RECEPTION AREA An embracing space that evokes the spirit and vibe of Elixir Cruises from the moment you step onboard the Elysium. Check-in comfortably at our welcome desk, while you enjoy a welcome drink. Here you will also find the Elixir Boutique, the coffee station as well as books and board games for your enjoyment. MAIN DECK & BAR At daytime relax and read your book under the shade sails or simply feel the sea breeze in your face. Alfresco meals are served here, while you may order food and drinks from the all-day menu at the bar. In the evening, the music sets the mood as you unwind and socialise with your fellow travellers. BOUTIQUE Treat yourself, your friends or family to stylish gifts from the Elixir Boutique. Classy beach bags and towels, summer jewellery, customized Elixir Cruises items, books, Gemaya Spa products and more. WELLNESS SUN DECK Enjoy morning or sunset yoga sessions, Pilates classes or a meditation session on the Wellness Sun Deck. Bask in the sun or under a summer full moon. Equipped with comfy sun-beds, a jacuzzi and a large slumber sofa it is an inviting spot day or night. DINING VENUES Main meals are served al fresco on the beautiful Thalassa Deck and, if weather does not allow, in our indoor dining room. All-day dining is offered at the Thalassa Bar or anywhere on the Elysium, as well as in the privacy of your own cabin through room service. SERVICE The Elysium team genuinely cares. You will feel the famous Greek hospitality, as everyone goes above and beyond to make you happy with a smile. Our onboard team is made up of the main crew, our cruise coordinator, our hotel manager, a resident yoga and wellness coach, our spa therapist, as well as visiting masters and a guest archaeologist on select theme cruises. ENTERTAINMENT There is never a dull moment onboard the Elysium. In addition to the many excursions, yoga classes, snorkelling and water toys, there are always fun happenings for you to join. Cooking classes, photography walks, live music events, Greek dancing, barbeques, workshops and lots more. Or simply relax and take in the magic. The choice is yours. FOOD & BEVERAGE Our cuisine is Mediterranean and deliciously unpretentious, prepared daily with the freshest ingredients. During your cruise you will enjoy various dining experiences, like sumptuous buffets, a three course meal and fish or meat BBQs. We also offer an all day menu, so you may enjoy nibbles along with drinks, fresh juices and smoothies any time you feel hungry. Room service and small treats in the minibar give you the option to indulge in the privacy of your cabin. We are happy to accommodate any special food requirements. GEMAYA SPA The Gemaya Spa offers an all-cure experience. A place to melt away your aches and leave your worries behind in the hands of our experienced Balinese therapist. For our treatments we use Freshline products, an organic Greek line inspired by the Ancient Greek wisdom of herbal therapy. At the Gemaya spa you may also indulge in a mini manicure or pedicure. Hair appointments can be arranged on request. MINI GYM In addition to the array of fitness and wellness activities on board the Elysium, you may privately work out in the comfort of our equipped mini gym. SHORE EXCURSIONS & ACTIVITIES Following the Elixir Balance Concept©, various activities and excursions are offered on the Elysium cruises to mix and match and feed your mind, body and soul in a harmonious and fun way. Retreats and theme cruises with more in-depth experiences are also be offered periodically. WATER TOYS & WATER SPORTS Simply jump off the Elysium and enjoy the crystal-clear waters. Sanitized snorkelling equipment, glass bottom kayaks and SUPs are at your disposal all day and we will happily arrange a round of water-ski or scuba diving upon request.

Highlights

• Relaxing & Fun: Swimming, snorkeling, water sports, leisurely discovery walks, board games • Active: Horse riding on the beach, hiking up the “Rock” of Monemvasia, scuba diving • Wellness & Fitness: Yoga, pilates, spa treatments, gym • Experiential: Cooking class with lunch at local home, Greek dance workshop • Cultural: Significant archaeological sites, Byzantine churches, monasteries, museums, medieval towns and villages, oldest submerged city • Educational: Archaeology seminar, Photography walk • Nature: Natura protected habitat, world famous “Navagio” beach, spectacular coastline, Corinth canal

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