Islands of Greece by Luxury Motor Yacht

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Tour Types:

Easy Exploring

Comfort Rating:

Casual

Activity Level:

Really Easy

Duration:

8 Days

With their spectacular fusion of sunlight, stone, and sparkling sea, the Greek Islands have attracted people for 4000 years. Located in the Eastern Mediterranean, the Greek Islands number near 6000 islands scattered across hundreds of miles of sun-kissed sea. The Dodecanese Islands have the richest history of all of them…with Greek, Byzantine and Ottoman architecture punctuating previous conquests by the Romans, Crusaders, Turks, and Venetians. We’ll wander wherever the winds lead us to explore many of the most popular spots, like Kos, Symi and Rhodes. And in true Go Get Lost fashion we’ll wander off the beaten path to islands like Tilos and Chalki. From the picturesque olive groves, to the whitewashed houses, to the remote bays that have nothing but a beach, rocky cliffs, and us…we’ll explore the islands in our private 90′ motorsailer yacht. Like all Go Get Lost adventures, we’ll be visiting the villages, sampling the wine, meeting the locals, enjoying the food, marveling at the incredible views, swimming in pristine Mediterranean bays, and slowly easing into the pace of life in this magnificent corner of the globe!

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NOTE: The tour itinerary is usually accurate, but due to the nature of the tour it can change slightly as conditions dictate. When exploring the Greek Islands by small boat, it's best to relax and enjoy wherever the winds lead you. There are dozens of amazing islands, and our itinerary will remain flexible to allow us to have a wonderful adventure! Also note the itinerary below is for Kos to Rhodes. Depending on your date of departure the itinerary could be the opposite and will start in Rhodes and end in Kos and will vary slightly.

Day 1 - Kos, Nisiros

Our Greek adventure starts today in the port of Kos, where we'll board our private 90' motor yacht, built in the traditional Turkish Gulet style, and our home for our island explorations. It features 5 private air-conditioned cabins, each with its own modern bathroom. This is the true way to experience life in the Greek Islands! There are great amenities, also...with on-board wifi, crew, chef, and topside deck with ample room for sunbathing and relaxing while we watch the island scenery drift by. (You may want to arrive a day early to explore Kos and get over your jet lag before your cruise, or you can extend your stay after your cruise in Kos. Kos, the second largest island of the 12 islands (Dodecanese islands) has a very mild climate and very fertile lands. The island houses a 560-year-old tree, a 211-year-old fountain and miles of gorgeous beaches scattered along its coastline. Kos is one of the islands with the best night life, too. Nafklirou, a street full of bars, is always crowded, colorful, and full of life. Asclepion, known to be the birth place of Hippocrates, the "Father of Medical Science", is located here. Over many centuries and in fact millenia, many Eastern Mediterranean people with health problems were treated in Kos.

After we depart the harbor in late afternoon, we'll enjoy relaxing on deck while we journey to the harbor of Mandraki, on Nisiros island. Nisiros island means 'the place with figs'- but it is better known for its volcano which erupted in 1422 and is still active. Apart from being the capital of the island, Mandraki is also its harbor. It is one of the biggest villages on Nisiros, and you can enjoy a stroll around the exquisite pebbled narrow streets and squares (most typical of all being the Square of Dolphins), and take a close look at the white or colored two-story houses with wooden balconies. The houses are made of volcanic rocks and insulated with pumice-stone. The nightlife is not very intense but our group can make their own party in one of the little tavernas of Mandraki.

Alfresco dining in a picturesque harbor of a remote Greek island is just one of the great dining experiences you should enjoy at least once in your life! So tonight our cook will prepare a wonderful and authentic Greek dinner to welcome us aboard. Greek and Turkish cuisine from the Dodecanese is hearty and exotic, with plenty of beef, lamb, chicken dishes cooked with spices, herbs and nuts. Vegetarians need not feel left out, as Greeks are masters of meatless dishes as well. Depending on what the local fisherman have netted, seafood will find its way onto our table as well. And of course a true Greek salad of fresh tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, onions, and olives topped with a slab of feta is a small piece of heaven! It's best to wash all of this wonderful food down with some of the local Greek wines or beers.
We're free to go ashore after dinner to wander and discover a local Greek taverna for drinks and relaxing. After hanging with the locals in the town square, we can head back to our comfortable private cabins on our yacht. A late-night aperitif is best enjoyed while lying on deck and watching the Mediterranean star display.

Day 2 - Tilos

We'll depart Nisiros this morning after breakfast, but soon we'll stop for our midday swim break in a picturesque bay. Use the stairs or jump off the side, but make sure you get into the water to relax and float, letting the sun and the sea wash away your stress. We'll have lunch on board today as we enjoy our yachting lifestyle enroute to our next harbor.

Tilos is an island totally off the beaten track, with a rough, mountainous and verdant landscape, but very few people, only about 500 permanent residents. The hills and plains are home to four hundred species of flowers and herb, and are inhabited by numerous species of rare birds like Bonelli’s eagle, hawks, nightingales, goldfinches, herons, and bee-eaters. It has tiny picturesque villages and charming beaches. This is the place where the last elephants of Europe lived: The 4-5 foot tall dwarf-elephants appeared in the island 45,000 years ago and disappeared only 4,000 years ago!
The whole island constitutes a vast ecological park and is protected by international treaties. In ancient times, Tilos was famous for its herbs and became prosperous during the classic period. During that period the famous female poet, Irinna, lived on the island. We'll enjoy Tilos' unspoiled beaches and the small port of Livadia, with its assortment of shops and tavernas.

Today we'll venture out as a group to some sites truly unique to Tilos, including the deserted village of Mikro Chorio, Charcadio Cave Museum, and the Monastery Agio Panteleimonas. Tonight you'll be free to explore Livadia to find the perfect cozy seaside restaurant.

Day 3 - Chalki

A tiny, mountainous island of the Dodecanese, Chalki is a relaxing and laid-back island far from the tourist route. With only 400 inhabitants (mostly fishermen and sponge-divers) Chalki is mainly a place for boaters to stop, swim and explore the secluded beaches. The setting is delightful; pretty houses scattered around a picturesque harbourside, fishing boats at anchor, and a backdrop of rugged mountains. With its great climate and its kind people, a stop in Chalki can be considered as a vacation haven for both "body and soul". Chalki's only settlement, Nimborio, lies around a beautiful, natural harbor of crystal clear water. Its tall 2 and 3-story renovated mansions make it unrivalled in beauty amongst other island towns. The town has a noble air about it that reflects its past glory and prosperity. It is well worth your while to walk through its narrow and picturesque streets. Also worth a look is the church of Aghios Nikolaos with its magnificent bell tower built in 1861. Life on the island of Chalki is simple and unhurried and you can spend happy hours just lazing under the sun and swimming just wherever you fancy. The beach promenade of Nimporio is lined up with cafes and taverns, perfect for relaxing with your boat-mates. Chalki's interior is dotted with over 360 whitewashed chapels and crumbling stone houses, giving the impression (and rightly so) of timelessness. Tonight you're free to find a local taverna for dinner before returning to your yacht for a nightcap on the deck.

Day 4 - Symi (Chorio)

This morning we'll leave the charming village of Chalki and make our way to the island of Symi. Along the way, we'll find a secluded bay and make time for a little relaxation before continuing around the island to the main port of Symi, the town of Chorio. While approaching the port, one has the overwhelming feeling of entering a perfectly painted image of a scenic traditional village. As you glimpse the perfectly formed harbor of Symi town for the first time you'll be captivated by it's charm. Wonderfully well-preserved houses huddled together as they cling to the steeply rising hills beyond. Symi has a true romantic charm enhanced by the lack of any high-rise hotel developments that can be found on other islands. Few can resist the superb spectacle of the town of Symi showing off its impeccable architecture. Your friends back home will think your photos of Symi have been photoshopped!

You'll have some time to explore Symi before returning to our boat where our chef will have prepared an amazing dinner. With our yacht anchored in a perfect spot, you'll find yourself immersed in the ambiance that only the tranquil waters of Symi can offer.

Day 5 - Symi (Chorio)

Today we'll cruise to a secluded bay away from our port in Symi. You'll enjoy the gentle sea breeze and the sound of the waves as we approach this hidden gem. We'll spend time swimming in the clear waters or simply basking in the sun. The tranquility of the bay makes it a perfect escape.

This afternoon we'll venture off the beaten path as we visit the Roukoumniotis monastery to enjoy some local cheeses, pies, and ouzo all while taking in the views, under one of the oldest trees of the Dodecanese. You'll have the evening free in Symi, an excellent place to wander and get lost. You'll have plenty of dining choices for dinner, you might try the island specialty of "Symi Shrimp", tiny shrimp that are pan-friend and eaten whole, in the shell.

Day 6 - Rhodes

This morning we head for Rhodes, the Island of the Knights and capital of the Dodecanese. Rhodes is an island which is ideal not only for those who want to relax but also for those looking for an action-packed adventure! With its bright green hills, rich green valleys and uninterrupted line of golden beaches, Rhodes is truly a blessed place. Add in the island’s special blend of cosmopolitan and traditional, and numerous cultural and archaeological sites and you’ve got the perfect place to spend a day. Thanks to its strategic position, Rhodes has been important since ancient times. The ancient city of Rhodes, the construction of which began in 407 BC, was designed according to the city planning system devised by the greatest city planner of antiquity, Hippodamus of Miletus.

Rhodes soon developed into one of the most important seafaring and trading centers in the Eastern Mediterranean. Its golden era lasted from the 5th to the 3rd century BC. It was during this period that the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, was constructed, (supposedly), straddling the harbor. This impressive giant statue was demolished during an earthquake. When it became a province of the Roman, and later the Byzantine Empire, it initially lost its ancient glory. But in 1309 the Knights of Saint John of Jerusalem conquered Rhodes. They built strong fortifications to protect the island, turning it into a thriving multinational medieval city. In 1523 Rhodes was conquered by the Ottoman Turks, and the Greeks had to settle outside the city walls. During the Ottoman occupation, new buildings were erected within the Old Town, mainly mosques and baths. In 1912 Rhodes and the rest of the Dodecanese, were seized by the Italians. The new rulers embellished the city with magnificent buildings, wide roads and squares. The Palace of the Grand Master was rebuilt and the Street of the Knights was reconstructed in order to regain its medieval purity. It was not until 1948 that Rhodes officially became part of Greece. In 1988 the Medieval City of Rhodes was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

When we arrive in Rhodes Town we'll be met by an expert local guide for a walking tour of the stunning medieval center. After experiencing the history of Rhodes, it will be time to come back to modern times as our expert Sommelier introduces us to some amazing local wines, nicely paired with Greek delicacies. Afterwards, you'll be free to wander, shop and explore on our own. There are literally dozens of places to eat in Rhodes Town, from small family tavernas to trendy international restaurants. Get Lost and have fun!

Day 7 - Rhodes

Today we'll leave the port to explore the eastern coast of the island and search for the perfect place to enjoy the water, the sun, and the coastline. As we embark on our journey along the coast, you'll likely feel a profound sense of freedom. The open sea, the wind in your hair, and the absence of boundaries bring a sense of calm and relaxation. Once we find that perfect spot, you can dive into the cool refreshing waters, almost floating weightless. After your swim, you can return to the warmth of the deck where we'll enjoy a lunch before making our way back to the port at Rhodes town. You can take a bit of time to explore town or maybe pickup a last-minute souvenir. Tonight, we'll enjoy a marvelous farewell dinner on board our yacht, anchored in Rhodes harbor, with the mediaeval walls as our backdrop. Prepare yourself for an evening of good wine, great food, and lots of laughs. We'll be reliving all of the adventures we had, exchanging addresses and photos, and planning our next vacation!

Day 8 - Rhodes

This morning our adventure ends in the port of Rhodes following our final breakfast on board. From here, you can make your way to the Rhodes airport where you can easily catch a flight back home or to wherever your next destination might be.

• 7 Night Double Occupancy Yacht Accommodations (All Cabins with Air Conditioning, Private Bathrooms). 2 Master Suites and 3 Deluxe Twin cabins.
• Meals as Specified: 7 Breakfasts, 7 Lunches, 3 Dinners (including wine)
• Island Tours with Local Guides at Various Islands
• Mikro Chorio, Charcadio Cave Museum, and the Monastery Agio Panteleimonas
• Greek Cheese, Pies, and Ouzo Tasting
• Private Wine Tasting and Food Pairing with Expert Sommelier
• Walking Tour of Mediaeval Rhodes
• Sightseeing and entrance fees as specified in itinerary
• Completely escorted by a Go Get Lost Tour Leader with local guides at specified sites throughout the itinerary
• Gratuities for Local Day Guides and Coach Drivers, except for your Go Get Lost Tour Leader, and your boat crew.
• A lifetime of unforgettable memories!

• Airfare package
• Arrival/Departure transfers
• Visa fees, if applicable
• Meals not specified in itinerary
• Beverages at meals unless specified in itinerary (water is always included, you can bring your own drinks on board)
• Gratuities for your Go Get Lost Tour Leader
• Gratuities for boat crew, porterage, etc.
• Trip Cancellation/Interruption and Medical Insurance (strongly recommended), call for details
• Items of a personal nature; phone calls, laundry, etc.