mediterranean – Islands https://www.islands.com The world's most beautiful island travel to the Caribbean, Hawaii, Tahiti and Mexico with expert reviews of resorts, snorkeling and the best islands to live on. Thu, 11 May 2023 18:33:12 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.3.2 https://www.islands.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/favicon-isl-1.png mediterranean – Islands https://www.islands.com 32 32 Oceania Vista Debuts with Top Island Itineraries https://www.islands.com/cruises/oceania-vista-debuts-island-itineraries/ Thu, 11 May 2023 18:33:07 +0000 https://www.islands.com/?p=46942 The cruise line’s first new-build ship in more than a decade shines with elevated décor, new dining concepts, and sailings to incredible island destinations.

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The Oceania Vista on the water
From the Mediterranean to the Caribbean, Vista is set to whisk guests away to some spectacular destinations. Oceania Cruises

Positioned in that sweet spot—a ship that’s neither too small nor too large—Oceania Vista made its debut this month in the Mediterranean, complete with a christening extravaganza featuring the ship’s godmother, celebrity chef Giada De Laurentiis, and a musical performance by Harry Connick, Jr. 

The seventh vessel in the Oceania Cruises’ fleet and the 20-year-old cruise line’s first new build since 2012’s Oceania Riviera, 1,200-passenger Oceania Vista features elevated contemporary design notable for a sophisticated blend of patterns and textures in a palette that’s neutral but never boring. Oceania, which increasingly refers to itself as “upper premium,” has also evolved its onboard dining and mixology concepts (including the addition of truly beautiful glassware and dinnerware in bars and restaurants) and given its spacious staterooms (most are 290 square feet) and suites (which range from 440 to 2,400 square feet) glamorous residential-inspired décor, 1,000-thread-count sheets, and some of the best-designed bathrooms at sea. 

And, of course, there are the terrific island-hopping itineraries available for 2023, 2024, and early 2025.

What to Expect Onboard

The atrium on the Oceania Vista cruise ship.
If first impressions are everything, the ship’s atrium will have jaws dropping. Oceania Cruises

What’s familiar and what’s new aboard this first Allura Class ship? While guests who’ve sailed on 1,250-guest Oceania Marina and Oceania Riviera will find many similarities in layout, the interior décor of Vista by Miami-based Studio DADO gives this new ship an enhanced feeling of modernity and spaciousness. The Grand Staircase with its floor-to-ceiling, pillar-style crystal chandelier welcomes guests, who may quickly decide that the adjacent Martinis bar on deck 6 will be favorite hangout. Reimagined with shimmering glass and photogenic gold walls featuring geometric and brand-centric “O” motifs along with sculptural chairs and sofas that manage to be both aesthetically striking and comfortable, Martinis is a social hub for pre- and post-dinner cocktails.

The Founders Bar is a new beverage concept on Vista, focused entirely on the art of the cocktail and featuring a unique selection of bourbons and ryes in addition to tableside preparation of cocktails and spirits—if only the space, which feels under-designed in comparison to the rest of the ship, was equally sophisticated. Passenger-favorite Horizons, a bar/lounge located forward on deck 14, remains the space to relax with a good book on a sea day or dance the night away to a live band or DJ. 

Oceania positions itself as a cruise line for foodies and its culinary offerings are quite well-rounded, with 11 complimentary dining venues, three of them completely new and exclusive to Vista. Vegetarians and vegans, however, may find their choices are more limited on a la carte dining menus than on some other cruise lines.

The Red Ginger dining concept on the Oceania Vista cruise ship.
Red Ginger will dazzle guests with a creative pan-Asian menu. Oceania Cruises

Returning specialty restaurants include Polo Grill (for steakhouse cuisine), Toscana (for Italian, with two exclusive menu items by Giada De Laurentiis, including a seriously addictive Signature Capri-Inspired Lemon Spaghetti), and Red Ginger (for pan-Asian menus). New aboard Vista is Ember, a space with a vaulted brick ceiling and a contemporary American menu that’s heavy on steak and seafood (including burgers, Cobb salads, crab cakes, and lobster mac ‘n cheese), and Aquamar Kitchen, which offers wellness-focused menus for breakfast (acai berry energy bowls. avocado toast, blueberry chia yogurt) and lunch (slow-roasted organic salmon with quinoa and yellowfin tuna tacos with cabbage slaw). 

Baristas, a complimentary coffee bar with sweeping ocean views and barista-served cappuccinos and lattes, adjoins the new Bakery serving French and Italian pastries (the Nutella-filled beignets are decadent). Both are close to the cozy and inviting Library, which is stocked with books and board games.

Rounding out the dining options are The Grand Dining Room, which has been redesigned with a visually captivating palette of white-on-white accented by gold tones and luxe hand-painted murals; Terrace Café, the buffet option for breakfast, lunch, and dinner; and Waves Grill, a poolside casual eatery with grilled burgers and sandwiches. 

Guests can also book (at an added cost) the new Cellar Master’s Classic lunch, a six-course culinary indulgence featuring wine pairings of some of the ship’s premium vintages, including an excellent Cote de Beaune from Burgundy paired with fresh burrata and a Super Tuscan served with roasted Chateaubriand. Vista, like her sisters Marina and Riviera, also has an onboard Culinary Center, but this one is twice as large with 24 individual stations where guests can take cooking classes. Also new: an adjacent restaurant where the prepared dishes can be enjoyed.

The ship’s chic Pool Deck features shady alcoves with day beds and comfy seating, plus a pool and two hot tubs, while the Aquamar Spa Terrace (for guests who book a treatment in the Aquamar Spa or who are staying in Concierge Veranda Staterooms or Suites) is a quiet spot with sun loungers, two hot tubs, and a warm mineral-water jetted relaxation pool. 

Guests with a creative streak can take lesson from the artist in residence in the Artist’s Loft. There’s also a fully equipped fitness center and a Sports Deck with a pickleball court and a mini-golf course. If you love to keep up with friends on social media or need to do some work while aboard, Vista features Starlink satellite technology and the Wi-Fi is super-fast, a rarity at sea.

Where Can You Island Hop on Vista?

Guests watch fireworks on board the Oceania Vista during the cruise ship’s christening.
While these fireworks took place at the christening, there will still be so much excitement on future voyages. Oceania Cruises

Oceania Vista will spend summer 2023 cruising the Mediterranean, with most sailings already sold out or waitlisted, although there are some staterooms available on select sailings. The ship will then make an 18-night transatlantic voyage from London to New York in late August. 

After Arriving in Miami in mid-October, the ship will cruise two Panama Canal transits from Miami to Los Angeles and vice versa, before embarking on a series of 10-to-22-night Caribbean itineraries. These include a 12-night Caribbean Wanderlust sailing roundtrip from Miami in November 2023 that calls on eight islands: Puerto Rico, St. Barths, Domenica, Barbados, Grenada, St. Lucia, Antigua, and the Bahamas.

Vista will return to the Med in April 2024 and one of its most island-intensive itineraries is the 20-night Mediterranean Poetry sailing (May 1–20, 2024) from Venice to Rome that visits eight islands (Hvar, Corfu, Crete, Santorini, Mykonos, Kos, Malta, and Sicily) as well as Dubrovnik, Istanbul, Athens, and other coastal ports. Two shorter options: the 11-night Cradle of the Ancients itinerary (May 21–June 1, 2024) from Rome to Jerusalem and calling on Sicily, Santorini, Rhodes, and Cyprus, and the 10-night Portal to Antiquity (Sept 3-13, 2024) from Athens to Rome and calling on Mykonos, Rhodes, Malta, and Sicily. For an island bonanza, there’s the 27-night Cultural Constellation sailing (Sept. 23–Oct. 20, 2024) from Lisbon to Athens that visits 11 islands: Madeira, La Palma, Tenerife, Lanzarote, Corsica, Sardinia, Malta, Sicily (three times: Catania, Palermo and Messina), Corfu, Santorini, and Mykonos. 
If a three-month escape during the cold winter months is something you’d enjoy, Vista will sail a 90-night Ultimate Snowbird Paradise voyage (Jan. 8–April 8, 2025) that will call on more than two dozen island ports in the Caribbean—from St. Barth, Domenica, and Guadeloupe to Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao—as well as ports in Central American and Mexico.

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The Top Island Itineraries for 2023’s New Cruise Ships https://www.islands.com/cruises/new-cruise-ships-caribbean-itineraries/ Fri, 03 Mar 2023 15:16:26 +0000 https://www.islands.com/?p=46593 Fun-in-the-sun megaships, small luxury vessels, a new cruise line, and a returning favorite highlight these tropical experiences.

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The external view of the new Explora 1 ship from Explora Journeys.
Explora 1 will embark on its first voyage in July, with plenty of exciting adventures to come. Explora Journeys

If you’re looking to book a brand-new cruise ship sailing island-centric itineraries in the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and beyond, 2023 offers lots of options. There’s a new cruise ship debuting almost every month from April to December as nine leading cruise lines add vessels to their fleets, an upscale newcomer debuts, and a familiar brand relaunches. 

So, whether you prefer lively megaships accommodating more than 4,000 guests or small luxury ships focused on fine dining and pampering, there’s an island-hopping cruise waiting to be booked. Read on for the top itineraries from 2023’s new cruise ships.

Explora 1

Inaugural cruise: July 

What’s onboard: Luxury-ship newcomer Explora Journeys, a division of MSC Cruises, will christen its first vessel, Explora 1, in July. The 922-passenger ship is the first of six planned eco-conscious vessels that will sail six- to 35-night immersive itineraries, first in Northern Europe and then in South America, and feature nine inclusive dining experiences, four pools (one with a tractable roof), and 10 bars and lounges (several featuring hand-crafted Steinway pianos).

Top island itineraries: Among Explora 1’s early itineraries will be the 19-night Extended Journey from Flemish Canals to Icelandic Lagoons (from Hamburg, Germany to Reykjavik, Iceland) that calls on England, Scotland, Ireland, Wales, the Isle of Lewis, and the Shetland Islands, as well as the Faroe Islands. After arriving in the Caribbean, the ship will sail itineraries that include the 10-night Caribbean Escapes in European Outposts, visiting Key West, Virgin Gorda, St. Barths. St. Kitts, Antigua, Guadeloupe, St. Lucia, and Barbados.

Viking Saturn

The view from the rear pool deck of the Viking Saturn cruise ship.
No such thing as a bad seat on this pool deck. Viking

Inaugural cruise: April 

What’s onboard: When you step aboard Viking Saturn, the cruise line’s ninth ocean ship, there won’t be any surprises. That’s because Viking’s philosophy for its ocean cruise line is to offer guests a consistent experience with identical 930-guest ships. Just like its siblings, Viking Saturn is adults-only and features tranquil Scandinavian-modern décor, a Liv Nordic Spa with a soothing thermal area available to all guests, an aft infinity pool, and a main pool with a retractable roof, five dining venues (all included in the cruise fare along with complimentary beer and wine with lunch and dinner), and educational guest lectures.

Top island itineraries: Viking Saturn will be in Europe throughout 2023 with itineraries that include: Iceland, British Isles, and Iberia, which combines port calls in Iceland, Ireland, and England with coastal visits in Spain and Portugal; Empires of the Mediterranean, which cruises coastal Croatia, Montenegro, and Greece plus the islands of Corfu and Santorini; and Cities of Antiquity and the Holy Land, which visits Crete, Rhodes, Mykonos, and Cyprus, as well as coastal Israel and Italy. 

Resilient Lady

Inaugural: May 

What’s onboard: The third ship in Richard Branson’s three-year-old Virgin Voyages fleet, 2,700-guest Resilient Lady offers an adults-only cruise experience that’s music-centric and campy, with an onboard tattoo parlor, a resident drag-queen “Diva,” suites called “Rockstar Quarters,” 20 restaurants (all complimentary) and edgy nightlife and entertainment. Resilient Lady will set sail in May from Athens (Piraeus), Greece and then from Barcelona, Spain and spend winter 2023/2024 in Australia (summer Down Under).

Top island itineraries: Resilient Lady will cruise 7-night French Daze and Ibiza Nights itineraries to the islands of Ibiza and Mallorca (plus Marseilles and Cannes) from Barcelona and Greek Island Glow to Santorini, Rhodes, Mykonos and Bodrum, Turkey from Athens (Piraeus) through fall 2023 and then homeport from Melbourne Australia, offering 2-to-5-night cruises to Tasmania and 10-to-12-night sailings to Tasmania and New Zealand through March 2024.

Oceania Vista

An interior view of a veranda stateroom on the Oceania Vista cruise ship.
The stylish décor of the veranda stateroom will have guests feeling elegant and relaxed. Oceania Cruises

Inaugural: May 

What’s onboard: It’s been 11 years since Oceania Cruises launched a new-build ship and 1,200-guest Oceania Vista, the first in in the Allura Class, will set sail in May in the Mediterranean. Vista, featuring elegant contemporary design and all-veranda accommodations, will offer all-complimentary dining options that include new options Ember serving inventive New American cuisine and wellness-inspired Aquamar Kitchen, along with guest-favorite Red Ginger for flavorful pan-Asian specialties. There’s also an onboard culinary center, an innovative mixology program, a chic pool deck, and an Aquamar Spa with an aft pool on the Spa Terrace.

Top island itineraries: While in Europe, Oceania Vista will offer a 10-day Greek and Italian Artistry cruise that visits the islands of Sicily, Malta, Mykonos, and Santorini, as well as coastal Italy and Turkey and a 12-day British Isles Splendor, which sails roundtrip from London and visits 10 ports in England, Ireland, and Scotland. In late fall, the ship heads to Miami for a series of winter sailings in the Caribbean, such as the 10-day Caribbean Wanderlust, which calls on the Bahamas, Puerto Rico, St. Barth, Dominica, Barbados, Grenada, St. Lucia, and Antigua.

Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony

Relaunch: July and September

What’s onboard: Crystal, now owned and managed by British travel company A&K Travel Group Limited and holding company Heritage, plans to relaunch 740-guest Crystal Serenity (in July) and 606-guest Crystal Symphony (in September), following extensive refurbishments. A brand that dominated the luxury cruise market for two decades until its former owners suffered bankruptcy and liquidation in early 2022, Crystal is known for attentive service and elevated cuisine in venues that will now include Waterside main dining room, new Italian specialty restaurant Osteria D’Ovidio, global family-style Tastes Kitchen and Bar, and exclusive Vintage Room for six-course wine-paired dinners (at extra cost). 

Top island itineraries: When Crystal Serenity arrives in Miami in late October, it will begin several months of Caribbean itineraries, including the 10-night Miami to San Juan sailing that visits Cozumel, Grand Cayman, Jamaica, Dominican Republic, St. Barth, Tortola, and Puerto Rico, while the 13-night Miami to Miami itinerary calls on Grand Turk, Jost Van Dyke, St. Thomas, Antigua, Guadeloupe, St. Lucia, and Puerto Rico. Crystal Symphony will spend September and October in the Mediterranean before heading to Asia, where a top itinerary is a 30-night Sydney to Bali sailing visiting Tasmania, New Zealand, Komodo Island, and Bali.

Norwegian Viva

An exterior rendering of the three-level Viva Speedway on board the new Norwegian Viva cruise ship.
The three-level Viva Speedway alone will keep guests entertained for days. Norwegian Cruise Line

Debut: August 

What’s onboard: Just a year after the debut of Norwegian Cruise Line’s first-in-its-class Norwegian Prima, 3,099-guest Norwegian Viva will set sail in the Mediterranean and offer the same onboard innovations as its sibling: a dozen dining venues (including four complimentary eateries, among them the new Indulge Food Hall and seven specialty restaurants), bright and modern décor in its airy staterooms (some for solo travelers), a dazzling three-story atrium, and a wide array of indoor and outdoor bars and lounges. Ideal for both couples and families, the new ship features expansive deck space with sleek infinity pools, twisting slides, and a three-level Viva Speedway. 

Top island itineraries: As Norwegian Viva spends the autumn months in the Mediterranean, the 9-day Italy, Greece and Croatia sailing visits Sicily, Malta, and Corfu, as well as coastal ports in Italy and Croatia. After arriving in the Caribbean, Viva will offer a 9-day Curacao, Aruba, and St. Lucia sailing (roundtrip from San Juan, Puerto Rico) that calls on St. Thomas, St. Maarten, Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, St. Lucia, and St. Kitts. 

Silver Nova

Inaugural: August 

What’s onboard: With 728-guest Silver Nova, luxury cruise line Silversea is debuting a novel new asymmetrical design that orients the pool deck toward the ship’s starboard side for panoramic views. The ship also features new aft suites offering 270-degree vistas, nine restaurants (including S.A.L.T. Kitchen for destination-inspired menus), 11 bars, and the Otium Spa inspired by 2,000-year-old ancient Roman therapies. After its summer debut in the Mediterranean, Silver Nova will head to the Caribbean and South America.

Top island itineraries: Silver Nova’s 17-day Lisbon to Lisbon sailing in late September will visit six islands in the Azores, Canary Islands, Cape Verde Islands, and Madeira; and in November its 16-day New York to Bridgetown cruise will call on Bermuda, Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, St. Barth, St. Kitts, Antigua, Martinique, St. Lucia, and Barbados.

Seabourn Pursuit

The Sky Bar on the new Seabourn Pursuit cruise ship.
When not exploring the many exotic destinations, guests will likely be just as happy to hang out at the Sky Bar and admire the views. Seabourn

Inaugural: August

What’s onboard: Is visiting Antarctica’s South Shetland Islands, South Georgia Island, or the Falkland Islands on your bucket list? The debut of Pursuit adds a second 264-guest vessel to Seabourn’s luxury expedition fleet with itineraries exploring remote locales while guests enjoy world-class amenities and spacious staterooms—plus access to a trained expedition team, two submarines and 24 Zodiacs. And while polar expeditions and other remote voyages are a key part of Pursuit’s line-up, so are Mediterranean and Caribbean cruises.

Top island itineraries: The 14-day Spanish French and Italian Gems itinerary in late August visits Mallorca, Sardinia, and Corsica as well as coastal ports in Spain, Italy, Monaco, and France, while the 10-Day Atlantic Sunrises sailing in late September visits Puerto Rico, Jost Van Dyke, Anguilla, St. Kitts, Antigua, Martinique, Bequia, and Barbados. Non-tropical Islands are part of polar exploration, with the 21-day Antarctica, South Georgia, and Falkland cruise in February 2024 visiting South Georgia Island (famed for its king penguin colonies) and the Falkland Islands. Dreaming of the South Pacific? Pursuit will make an epic 37-day Island Cultures: From Easter Island to Melanesia journey in March 2024 that visits Easter Island, Pitcairn Island, French Polynesia, the Cook Islands, Samoa, Tonga, Vanuatu, and the Solomon Islands.

Carnival Jubilee

Inaugural: November 

What’s onboard: Do you just want to have fun—at an affordable price? Carnival Cruise Lines has always had “fun” as its mantra and 5,374-guest Carnival Jubilee, joining the fleet with cruises to the Caribbean from Galveston, TX in November, is the third megaship in the festive Mardi Gras class. Carnival continues its “party at sea” legacy onboard Jubilee with more than two-dozen restaurants and bars, a WaterWorks aqua park, five pools, a Family Feud Live game show, a BOLT rollercoaster, and much more.

Top island itineraries: Carnival Jubilee will homeport in Galveston and offer 7-day Western Caribbean itineraries year-round that call on Cozumel, Mexico, and Roatan, Honduras, as well as Costa Maya on Mexico’s Caribbean coast. 

Regent Seven Seas Grandeur

An exterior view of the Regent Seven Seas Grandeur cruise ship on the open waters.
In addition to the exceptional cruise experience, guests are going to love the art displays. Regent

Inaugural: November

What’s onboard: Seven Seas Grandeur, launching in November with a transatlantic crossing followed by sailings from Miami to the Caribbean, will be the third ship in Regent’s Explorer Class and feature the most expensive art collection at sea—which will include the first Fabergé egg to permanently reside on a cruise ship. Grandeur will offer seven gourmet dining venues (all included in the cruise fare), elegant bars and lounges, two pools, a gleaming spa, and spacious veranda suites in 10 categories.

Top island itineraries: Seven Seas Grandeur’s 12-night Miami to Miami sailing in February 2024 calls on Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, Grenada, St. Lucia, St. Barth, and Tortola, while its 10-night Istanbul to Athens itinerary in June 2024 visits the Greek Islands of Mykonos, Lesbos, Patmos, Rhodes, and Crete, along with Malta and coastal ports in Turkey.

Celebrity Ascent

Inaugural: December

What’s onboard: Celebrity Ascent, the fourth ship in Celebrity Cruises’ Edge class, makes its debut in December, cruising to the Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale. The 3,260-guest vessel continues the evolution of Edge-series ships, which are distinguished by the tangerine-hued Magic Carpet lounge perched on their starboard side, signature martini-shaped hot tubs, and 32 food and beverage experiences, including specialty dining at Le Voyage by Daniel Boulud and the two-deck Nate Berkus-designed Sunset Bar, both first seen on 2022’s Celebrity Beyond.

Top island itineraries: During its inaugural Caribbean season, Celebrity Ascent will offer 7-night San Juan, Tortola, and St. Kitts sailings and 7-night Bahamas, Mexico, and Grand Cayman itineraries (visiting Cozumel, Nassau, and Grand Cayman) before heading to the Mediterranean and offering varied itineraries, including 12-night Greek Isles, Italy, and Malta sailings in September and October 2024.

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Explore More of the Greek Islands https://www.islands.com/story/cruises/explore-more-greek-islands/ Fri, 21 Feb 2020 23:35:51 +0000 https://www.islands.com/?p=40438 You’d probably be lying if you said you hadn’t dreamed of traveling to the Greek islands someday. Why can’t someday be today? A crewed-charter-yacht vacation is the most memorable way to visit these breathtaking islands.

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We’ve all envisioned ourselves exploring the ancient ruins, pebbly beaches, bustling tourist spots and secluded inlets of the Greek islands, but picture this: You’re not surrounded by dozens, if not hundreds, of other cruisers; instead, it’s just you, your closest family and friends, your own itinerary, and a private skipper and crew guiding you the entire way. This, friends, is a chartered-yacht vacation, and the dream can very easily become your reality.

Greek islands
The dream of a chartered yacht vacation to the Greek islands can very easily become your reality. The Moorings

The Moorings has spent over 50 years at sea perfecting the luxurious yacht-charter vacation. They offer not just one Greek-islands excursion but two—both crafted for the traveler who values a relaxing getaway that’s also an adventurous, authentic vacation experience. Choose Athens Zea if you’re hungry for adventure, history, heavenly food, lots of walking tours and views on views on views. Looking for a quieter, more laid-back journey? The Corfu itineraries are here to serve up pristine beaches, more heavenly food, quaint coastal towns, watersports activities for the whole family and more views on views on views. Oh, and did we mention wine? You’ll find that on any itinerary you choose, and either itinerary you go with, you can’t go wrong.

Athens Zea

Located just 35 minutes away from the airport, your journey will begin at Marina Zea, The Moorings’ base on this itinerary. The marina is situated just outside of Athens, so if you have some time before or after your journey, you can explore the many cafes, restaurants and shops that make up this modern yet ancient capital. Better yet, grab an Uber and drive 10 minutes up the road to see the Acropolis: a must-see on any Greek vacation.

marina
The marina is situated just outside of Athens, so if you have some time before or after your journey, you can explore the many cafes, restaurants and shops that make up this modern yet ancient capital. The Moorings

Once The Moorings introduces you to your dedicated skipper and crew and you get acquainted with your maritime home away from home for the next seven days, you’re off on your journey around the beautiful Saronic Gulf. Both sail and power itineraries last at least a full week and circumnavigate the gulf, returning you to Marina Zea at the end of your trip.

This itinerary is perfect for the adventurous traveler. At most stops, your boat will dock right up to the seawall of a town, the shoreline peppered with white or pastel-colored homes and structures. And unlike staying in a resort, you’re literally part of the scenery as you coast into your mooring.

seawall of a town
At most stops, your boat will dock right up to the seawall of a town, the shoreline peppered with white or pastel-colored homes and structures. The Moorings

Opt for a yacht charter, and you’ll visit places like Hydra and Cape Sounion Bay. Hydra is a must-see, off-the-beaten-path, historically cosmopolitan destination where cars aren’t allowed. That’s right—make sure you’re wearing your Fitbit because this beautiful city is only accessible via walking, bicycle or donkey if you’d prefer to go the ultra-traditional route. Situated within its picturesque shoreline are countless bars, beaches and restaurants serving traditional Grecian food. Make sure to stop and marvel at one of the historic mansions that line the streets. Also called archontika, these beautiful homes were built in the 18th century by wealthy shipowners and are just a piece of the unique architecture you will find.

You can’t complete your Athens Zea vacation without an excursion to Cape Sounion Bay. Home of the famous Temple of Poseidon built in 440 B.C., Cape Sounion Bay is perched on the cliffs of the Attica peninsula and offers breathtaking views. Feast your eyes on the temple’s ancient marble ruins from the comfort of your yacht or choose an excursion ashore to see them up close.

ancient marble ruins
Feast your eyes on the temple’s ancient marble ruins from the comfort of your yacht or choose an excursion ashore to see them up close. Kylie Docherty, Unsplash

Want to go a little further? The Moorings’ power-yacht itinerary takes you to places like Nafplio and Epidaurus. In Nafplio, visit the Vouleftikon, the beautiful domed building where the first Greek Parliament met in the 19th century—or take a break and sunbathe on one of the city’s many sandy beaches. The town of Epidaurus is home to the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus. Built in the 4th century B.C., this theater is famous for its ability to bounce even the slightest whisper off its stands.

Nafplio
Venture further, and you will reach Nafplio, home to many beautiful sandy beaches. The Moorings

Corfu

Looking for some relaxed, open-water tranquility? The Moorings’ Corfu itineraries may be your ideal choice. Corfu is located at the westernmost tip of Greece, and the itineraries provide access to the stunning Ionian Islands. Corfu has an old-world charm and rustic feel, coupled with an astounding landscape and warm people. You will feel just like a Grecian as you moor along the shoreline of these small islands and venture ashore to explore its winding streets.

Corfu
The Moorings’ Corfu itineraries may be your ideal choice if you are looking for some relaxed, open-water tranquility. The Moorings

Whether opting for a sailing yacht or power yacht, your Corfu journey will begin in Kalami Bay, a former fishing village lined with pebbled beaches. Hop ashore and visit Kalami Beach Taverna, located right on the beachfront, overlooking the bay. This family-owned restaurant serves homemade Greek dishes and makes their own olive oil from olives they collect right off the trees. Plus, the fish is freshly caught each day.

Corfu
The Moorings’ Corfu itineraries may be your ideal choice if you are looking for some relaxed, open-water tranquility. The Moorings

A cruise to the bay of Lakka is a coveted stop on any sailor’s list. The Bay is home to Paxos and Antipaxos, which are known for their turquoise-clear waters, acres of vineyards and olive groves, and of course, more views. These islands are tiny, remote and quiet—Antipaxos is inhabited by maybe only 100 people—but you are sure to fall in love with their unique Grecian charm and winding paths interspersed with flocks of fluffy sheep.

A power yacht can take you to Kefalonia, the largest of the seven main Ionian Islands, which is surrounded by towering mountains that will leave you breathless as you approach by water. Anchor in Agia Efimia and visit Melissani Cave, a subterranean cave lake with dancing blue waters and hundreds of stalactites that you can explore by small boat. Lit lovers will want to cruise a little to the northeast and visit Ithaca, the famed home of Odysseus and an ideal spot to travel ashore, rent a motor scooter, and explore the blend of historic and modern architecture that line the streets.

Greece by bike
A great way to explore many of the Greek islands is by renting a bicycle or motor scooter. The Moorings

The Only Way to Explore the Greek Islands

Exploring the Greek islands—or any destination—by yacht charter is the most unique, immersive and efficient way to get the most out of your trip. Coasting up to a shoreline on your chartered yacht makes you feel like you’re one of the locals rather than a suitcase-toting tourist checking into a hotel. You pull up, and you’re immediately a part of the scenery—and trust us, everyone wants to be you. Traveling by yacht means it’s not necessary to rent a car or budget time to get to and from your resort, and your belongings travel with you as you go (unless, of course, you’re spending some time ashore, then leave it with the crew). Plus, you can visit tons of hard-to-reach destinations in which you probably wouldn’t be able to fit on a regular trip. This type of vacation offers you complete and total flexibility, coupled with a knowledgeable and caring crew that knows the ropes (pun intended) and gets you there safely.

Greek islands
Exploring the Greek islands—or any destination—by yacht charter is the most unique, immersive and efficient way to get the most out of your trip. The Moorings

If you aren’t one of those readers who has already jumped over to book a yacht-charter vacation, here’s how you can get started:

The Moorings Greek Islands Charter Itineraries

The Moorings Main Website

Call: (800) 416-0247

Follow The Moorings on social media: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube

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