Piraeus, roughly translating to “the place over the passage”, is an important Greek port located within the Athens agglomeration, in the Attica Basin. It is 12 kilometers from the municipality of Athens, considered the fourth largest and is the third most populous amongst all the municipalities of Greece. Now a peninsula, Piraeus, originally a rocky island, was developed in early 5th Century B.C. when it was initially designated as Athens’ import and transit trade port. It is the largest marine-based shipping center of Greece, one of the largest ports in Europe, and considered the second largest passenger port in the world.
Inhabited since the 26th Century, it wasn’t until the 6th Century B.C. that Piraeus began catching attention. The land of Piraeus was essentially impassable, flooded by the sea most of the year until centuries passed and the flooding ceased. By the 5th Century B.C. it became a navy base for the Athenian fleet for the natural harbors and the strategic potential they carried. Athenian general and politician Themistocles fortified Piraeus’ three harbors Kantharos, Zea and Munichia, created ship houses and completed his walls in 471 B.C., which led to the port becoming a great military and commercial harbor.
There are many archaeological sites, points of interest and entertainment available in Piraeus. Most famous for its tavernas and cuisine, several popular events take place in Piraeus, such as the Ecocinema International Film Festival, the Maritime Festival, the Piraeus Rock Wave Festival and the Three Kings’ Way Festival. There are also many theaters, including the Municipal Theater, the open air Veakeio Theater, and the Menandreio Theater. Museums in Piraeus include the Archaeological Museum of Piraeus, the Merchant Shipping History Institute Exhibition, the Panos Aravantinos Decor Museum, the Georgios Averof Museum Ship and the Museum of Electric Railways. Be sure to catch the panoramic views available from the hill of Kastella, overlooking Athens and the Saronic Gulf!
The castle town of Monemvasia is among the most impressive destinations in Greece. Located on the southeastern side of the Peloponnese, Monemvasia was entirely carved on the back side of a limestone rock during the Middle Ages. The great rock, often called the “Gibraltar of Greece,” is intentionally not visible from the mainland in order to shelter it from attacks. Because the only way to reach Monemvasia was by boat, its name, meaning “single passage,” is appropriate. Today, the castle is connected to the mainland, just opposite the rock. The Archaeological Museum, housed in a Muslim mosque opposite the Church of Elkomenos Christos, sits inside the castle walls. Besides the panoramic views that the castle affords, Monemvasia offers visitors the twelfth-century Byzantine Church of Hagia Sofia, located on the edge of a cliff overlooking the sea.
A Greek island in the Cyclades group in the Aegean Sea, Ios lies halfway between Naxos and Santorini. A hilly island with cliffs down to the sea on most sides, Ios shines for its amazing beaches, shimmering waters, and picturesque clifftop villages with narrow alleyways. Assessable by ferry or yacht, Ios is within hand’s reach of several Greek islands, including Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, and Crete. Ancient sites, museums, windmills, and churches dot the island, most notably the whitewashed church of Panagia Gremiotissa above Chora, the tomb of the Greek poet Homer in Plakoto, and the early Bronze Age settlement of Sharkos. The Archaeological Museum of Ios, displaying findings unearthed on the island, is housed in the Amiradakio Hall, located in the center of Chora.
Santorini, officially named Thira, is the southernmost Greek island that is within the Cyclades archipelago, in the southern Aegean Sea. Part of the regional unit Thira, the municipality of Santorini is comprised of the island Santorini, Therasia, and other uninhabited islands of Christiana, Palaia Kameni, Aspronisi, and Nea Kameni. The geological history of Santorini is quite complex due to the area’s volcanism and is currently a water-filled caldera: a rectangular lagoon that is surrounded by three steep cliffs. The name Santorini is a contraction of the name Santa Irini, which is based on an ancient cathedral found in the island’s village of Perissa. This name was given by the Latin Empire in the 13th Century. During the Ottoman Empire, Santorini was called “Santurin” or “Santoron”, and in early times, it was named Kalliste, Strongyle, and Thera.
Santorini is the site of the Minoan Eruption (also known as the Thera Eruption), one of the largest eruptions ever in recorded history. The origins of Plato’s story of Atlantis is believed to have a connection to this eruption that destroyed the early settlements on what was formerly a single island. The descriptions found of Plato’s Atlantis strongly resembles Thera, and with seismological, archaeological, and volcanological evidence, these claims are further supported. There is also speculation that the eruption is related to the Exodus of the Israelites, as well as causing the plagues described in the Bible in ancient Egypt.
The economy is sustained by two principal industries: tourism and agriculture, and has recently been voted as one of the world’s most beautiful islands in various outlets such as the Traveler’s Choice Awards in 2015. The wine industry in Santorini is becoming more relevant as well, made up of Assyrtiko, Athiri and Aidani grape varieties, which is best exemplified in Vinsanto (“holy wine”) which contains all three Aegean varietals. Although Santorini is highly arid, it’s unique ecology and climate allows it to grow unique and prized produce, such as cherry tomatoes, Lathyrus clymenum (a legume), and capers. Thus, tourists indulge in local specialties such as Brantada, Fava, and the traditional dish Santorinio Sfougato.
Perhaps providing the most diverse and dramatic coastline of all the Greek islands, sheltered, horseshoe-shaped Milos boasts more than 70 beaches and is heralded as the location where Venus de Milo (the ancient Greek goddess Aphrodite) was discovered. Milos has been named “the island of colors” thanks to its volcanic origin, which offers beaches and waters with a variety of colors and distinct beauty. Due to the volcanic origin of its ground, Milos presents an impressive coastal morphology and diversity. There are white-yellow beaches, bays with pebbles surrounded by stones, and white, red, yellow or black rocks. While discovering your favorite sand upon which to relax, don’t overlook Sarakiniko’s volcanic white cliffs and Papafragas’s emerald-green swimming holes and caves—shaped by the island’s unique minerals, including obsidian, barite, and sulphur, which happily bubble up in abundant hot springs.
Patmos is in the South Aegean Islands, particularly a member of the Dodecanese Islands of Greece. It is north of Leros and is most known for its connection to John the Apostle from the Book of Revelations; therefore Christian pilgrims frequent this destination. In mythology, Patmos was named “Letois”, which is another named for the goddess Diana, Leto’s daughter. Since ancient authors seldom mention Patmos in early text, information on early inhabitants is limited. It is widely believed the original people of Patmos were the Carians from Asia Minor, as discovered by the earliest archaeological findings date back to the Bronze and Mycenaean periods. The mountain in the country of Caria was named Latmos, which is where historians believe the name Patmos is derived from. Dorians also colonized in Patmos, and over time, Ionians followed suit. The primary port in Patmos is Skala, which was one of the most important sea ports in the Mediterranean around the 16th century.
Early Christian basilicas were constructed in the name of John of Patmos, however between the 7th and 9th century when Saracen attacks were still problematic, the Grand Royal Basilica was destroyed. A monastery began construction in 1101 when Christodoulos assumed authority over Patmos. The population began expanding as immigrants from the fall of Constantinople and Candia to place in the 15th and 17th centuries, respectively. The island was under the Ottoman rule for years and was interrupted by Venice during the Candian War, Russia during the Orlov Revolt, and Greece during their War of Independence. During the Italo-Turkish War, Italy occupied Patmos until 1943, when Nazi Germany held power over the island until 1945. Since Patmos rejoined in 1948, it has become the tranquil and frequented destination it is now.
Tourists visit the Monastery of St. John, Chora, the Cave of Apocalypse, Psili Ammos Beach and other beautiful points of interest in “Europe’s most idyllic place to live,” as named by Forbes in 2009.
Mykonos is one of the most visited Greek Islands. It is part of the Cyclades group and lies between Tinos, Syros, Paros and Naxos. The island spans an area of 85.5 square kilometers (33.0 sq mi) and rises to an elevation of 341 meters (1,119 feet) at its highest point.
Mykonos is so incredibly beautiful; it is not surprising that it has become one of the most desired destinations in the world. When you also add the cosmopolitan lifestyle, the sophisticated nightlife and the historical treasures of the nearby UNESCO Awarded Delos you’ll have the recipe for an unforgettable holiday. SeaDream usually anchors just of the famous windmills and tenders directly to the old town. Guests have a few organized options including the Sacred Island of Delos. Others may simply want to explore the island’s incredible beaches, boutiques, clubs and churches independently.
*Single Supplement for this voyage is 200% for Yacht Club Deck 2, 3 and 4. For Commodore, Admiral and Owners Suite, a 200% single supplement rate applies.
Government, Port, Document Issuance, Handling & Service fees: $427 per guest (included)
Please Note: Fares are capacity controlled and may change without notice. The fares are per person based on double occupancy. Single and third person rates are also available. SeaDream Yacht Club strongly recommends that all guests purchase travel insurance.
Our Destination Specialists “STAT S.A.” can assist with making your pre-arranged transfers, hotels accommodations and any other personalized pre or post cruise arrangements for your SeaDream cruise embarking or disembarking from Piraeus (Athens), Greece.
If you have any questions, please contact STAT S.A. directly:
Email: g.gonis@stathellas.gr (or) d.tatanis@stathellas.gr
Cell phone: +30 6977 90 1956 (or) +30 6983136972
Address:
STAT S.A.
35-39 , Akti Miaouli
Piraeus, GREECE 18535
Monemvasia, often referred as the “ Gibraltar of Greece”, is undoubtedly unique with its fortified medieval town built on a reddish-brown rock and surrounded by the blue sea.
Board the shuttle bus with your guide from the tender point, to start this exploration by entering the one and only gate of the city (Monemvasia means Moni=sole, Emvasia = entrance). The ancient stone built mansions, the picturesque lanes and the numerous Byzantine churches create an environment of superb beauty.
Monemvasia is split in two, the lower town and the upper town. Walking down the main alley, admire the wonderful architecture of the houses on your left and right, when you eventually end up at the square of Elkomenos. This square is dominated by the church of Elkomenos on the left, a mosque converted into a museum on the right and a Turkish cannon in the center.
During the stroll in the upper town; admire the octagonal church of Agia Sofia, built by the Emperor Andronicus in the 12th century AD. This is one of the most beautiful places of worship in Greece, offering unique views of the walled city and the sea.
After your stroll, board the coach outside the entrance of Monemvasia medieval town for a short drive to the traditional “Olive Press” house. This was the family house where the great Greek poet Yiannis Ritsos spent his summers. A guided visit to the house includes an olive press Museum and a cellar with a tasting area. Taste the olive oil and the Monemvasian wines together with fresh home made bread and hand-made local products such as olives, oregano and feta cheese. You will then return to Monemvasia to board the tender back to your SeaDream yacht.
Notes
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. This Yachting Land Adventure must be booked 48 Hours (2 days) prior to arrival in the port to confirm its operation during your voyage. Please book on the Seadream.com website, or onboard, early to avoid disappointment. Cancellations after the deadline are non-refundable. A minimum participation is required to operate all Yachting Land Adventures and some have limited capacity. All adventures in the SeaDream Yachting Land Adventures program are subject to change. Final departures times will be published on board.
The Laconian countryside is waiting to reveal its secrets to unsuspecting visitors and well-informed nature lovers alike on this guided journey around Talanta Village.
The Laconian countryside is waiting to reveal its secrets to unsuspecting visitors and well-informed nature lovers alike on this guided journey around Talanta Village.
From the pier you will board a private vehicle for the 30-minute drive to Talanta Village. Start the adventure by trekking down the cobbled path with the watermills. Among the ruins of 12 watermills, on water's way to the sea, you will stop at the restored third watermill. Every Saturday the villagers, and other locals and visitors, insist on gathering here to carry out the tradition of graining their wheat. This watermill is the starting point for the walk in nature, seeing images that take you back to the beginning of the last century.
Proceed down the Bali gorge on a relatively easy route between plane trees, olive trees and running waters, where the guide will introduce you to the local flora, eventually returning to the watermill on a circular path. Enjoy a picnic style break with freshly squeezed orange juice, local snacks and fresh fruit. The natural landscape that surrounds the Watermill is wonderful, calm, and serene and makes the visitor feel at peace within the natural setting. There will be free time for taking photos and relaxing. At the end of the experience, rejoin your private vehicle for the return drive to your yacht at the pier.
Notes
A minimum participation is required to operate all Yachting Land Adventures, and some may have limited capacity. All adventures in the SeaDream Yachting Land Adventures program are subject to change. Final departure times will be published on-board.
Learn about the early Bronze Age settlement of Skarkos on this guided hiking trip exploring Ios Island.
Ios island, known as the island of light, is located in the southern Cyclades and it’s famous for its vibrant nightlife and ancient landmarks. Starting from the port, your guide will take you on a hiking tour through the valley and towards Skarkos, one of the most important prehistoric sites in the Aegean and especially the Cyclades. This well-preserved site, dating back to 2400bc, covers an area of 1.1 hectares and is the largest and best-preserved sites of the Keros-Syros culture. At one time home to between 200 and 300 people, Skarkos is built on terraces that follow the natural relief of the hill. Reflect with the guide on the vision presented, as you learn about this civilization through the ruins witnessed at the site.
After the visit to Skarkos, you will walk deeper into the countryside of Ios, studying the landscape, reflecting on the life of the people and their historical contributions on the island. Included is a stop for a refreshment at a picturesque coffee shop, before returning through the main town and ending at the church of Hagia Irene, which welcomes the visitors to the island and where you will return to your SeaDream yacht.
Notes
A minimum participation is required to operate all Yachting Land Adventures and some have limited capacity. All adventures in the SeaDream Yachting Land Adventures program are subject to change. Final departure times will be published onboard. Please wear hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers. Water will be available for you at the gangway.
Explore scenic vistas of Ios islands, including Homer’s Tomb and taste delicious local cheeses at a privately owned Estate.
Ios island, known as the island of light, is located in the southern Cyclades and it’s famous for its beautiful beaches and legendary night life. This is your opportunity to explore the island on a panoramic drive through the island’s beautiful scenery. You will first head to the Plakato area, in the northeast part of Ios. This is where one of the greatest poets in ancient Greece, Homer (presumed author of epics like The Odyssey and The Iliad) is now buried in his tomb. Legend has it that it was on the island of Ios where Homer took his last breath. Some say that Homer's mother, Clymene, was from Ios and that is why Homer chose to spend his last days here. You will walk uphill with your guide to view the tomb and scenic surrounding views.
Next, you will drive to the Diaseli Estate which has a cheese making tradition dating back to 1922. Back then, the cheese-making was done in stone cells (rooms) in a cauldron over the fire. You will be escorted through the Estate’s Museum by a family member where you will be introduced to the cheesery and learn about the 18th century home, the threshing floor, the agricultural tools of the last 3 centuries, as well as with a historic well. During the tour, the intricacy of the island’s history will unfold seeing exhibits owned by the family and donations from other families on the island. Your experience will end with a degustation of various local cheeses and tasting of local honey for their unique characteristics.
Leaving the Estate, you will arrive to the most picturesque Chora, sitting on a hill and crowned by whitewashed houses with blue painted doors and windows. You will have some free time here to stroll around its alleys full of geraniums and bougainvillea and enjoy amazing views of the Aegean Sea before returning to your SeaDream yacht in port.
Notes
This Yachting Land Adventure must be booked 48 Hours (2 days) prior to arrival in the port to confirm its operation during your voyage. Please book on the Seadream.com website BEFORE you embark to avoid disappointment. Cancellations after the deadline are non-refundable. A minimum participation is required to operate all Yachting Land Adventures, and some may have limited capacity. All adventures in the SeaDream Yachting Land Adventures program are subject to change. Final departure times will be published on-board.
On this land adventure, discover the picturesque village of Oia and one of the most important prehistoric settlements of the Mediterranean: Akrotiri Archaeological site. Could Akrotiri be the lost city of Atlantis?
One of the reasons Santorini has attracted the world’s attention is the excavation at Akrotiri, which reclaimed a whole prehistoric Minoan city from the volcanic ash. The prehistoric site of Akrotiri is on the south-western tip of the island and was discovered in 1967 by Professor Spyros Marinatos. The city was buried by the Theran volcanic eruption in the middle of the second millennium BC.
Over the years, excavations have brought into light a remarkably well-preserved site with two and three-story homes decorated with marvelous wall paintings and frescoes, an advanced drainage system and many interesting objects, artwork, pottery and furniture which give a picture of a society which was very well organized and at the peak of prosperity. This was interrupted suddenly by the eruption of the volcano, which buried the entire city. An ambitious modern bio-climatic roof top structure protects this important archaeological settlement where excavation works are still in progress.
After exploring the excavations with a guide, ride to the northeast part of the island and its most picturesque town, Oia. Built high up on the ridge of red rocks, it offers breathtaking views of the blue Aegean. Take a stroll around the narrow streets with the old beautiful houses and the tiny picturesque shops. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the caldera cliff and wander in the narrow streets for shopping or a cup of coffee during your free time in the village.
The guide visit ends in the town of Fira. Wander along the edge of the caldera for amazing views or wander through narrow streets with the various shops. When ready, take a cable car or walk along the path down to the small port of Skala Fira for tenders back to the SeaDream yacht.
Notes
A minimum participation is required to operate all Yachting Land Adventures, some have limited capacity. All adventures in the SeaDream Yachting Land Adventures program are subject to change.
Cruise the caldera and its volcano on a private luxury catamaran whilst enjoying the stunning views together with refreshments.
Transfer by tender to the pier in Vilhada where the captain and crew wait for your private catamaran cruise. Enjoy wine, beer, soft drinks, and appetizers on board throughout the sailing.
Take in the sea breezes and beautiful views while sailing past Red Beach, White Beach, the rock formations of Akrotiri and the lighthouse. Coming into view next will be the volcanic islands formed around 1570 BC.
Next, disembark and enjoy the beautiful otherworldly surroundings on the island of Nea Kameni. Take the opportunity to relax on the beach or walk up to the island’s crater and visit the natural hot springs, which have waters that are green and yellow due to their mineral content.
After exploring the village, board the catamaran for a journey back to the old port to tender back to the SeaDream yacht.
Notes
A minimum participation is required to operate all Yachting Land Adventures and some have limited capacity. All adventures in the SeaDream Yachting Land Adventures program are subject to change. Final departure time will be announced on board.
Hat, sunscreen and good walking shoes are recommended. If you opt to swim in the natural hot springs; please be advised that the mineral content in the water can stain your clothes.
"Due to the popularity of this Yachting Land Adventure, additional space for prebooking has been added on this voyage."
Cruise the caldera and its volcano on a private luxury catamaran whilst enjoying the stunning views together with refreshments.
Transfer by tender to the pier in Vilhada where the captain and crew wait for your private catamaran cruise. Enjoy wine, beer, soft drinks, and appetizers on board throughout the sailing.
Take in the sea breezes and beautiful views while sailing past Red Beach, White Beach, the rock formations of Akrotiri and the lighthouse. Coming into view next will be the volcanic islands formed around 1570 BC.
Next, disembark and enjoy the beautiful otherworldly surroundings on the island of Nea Kameni. Take the opportunity to relax on the beach or walk up to the island’s crater and visit the natural hot springs, which have waters that are green and yellow due to their mineral content.
After exploring the village, board the catamaran for a journey back to the old port to tender back to the SeaDream yacht.
Notes
A minimum participation is required to operate all Yachting Land Adventures and some have limited capacity. All adventures in the SeaDream Yachting Land Adventures program are subject to change. Final departure time will be announced on board.
Hat, sunscreen and good walking shoes are recommended.
Explore the impressive highlights of Milos on this concise orientation Yachting Land Adventure.
Your experience starts with a visit to the classic Cycladic village of Plaka, with cobblestone streets and white stone houses accentuated with bougainvillea flowers and located 250 meters above the Aegean Sea. Stroll through the village and admire the traditional architecture with its stunning view of the sea, particularly from the courtyard of the Korfiatissa Church.
From Plaka, reboard your coach for a drive to the idyllic landscape of Papafragas, one of the most impressive sites of Milos. From the top of the rock, it resembles a huge natural swimming pool, and its three caves were used as pirate hideouts during Byzantine times. From the overlook, admire the remnants of the imposing Cyclopean wall of ancient Phylakopi site, one of the most important settlements of the Prehistoric Aegean.
Your next stop will be Sarakiniko, an inlet of pure white stone sculpted by volcanic eruptions. This startling beautiful, out-of-this-world spot is one of the island’s many geological wonders and perhaps one of the most photographed places in the Cyclades. You have the opportunity to walk down to a point where you will encounter this one-of-a-kind beach and take photographs. You will feel as if you have landed on the moon (optional swimming).
Then, reboard the coach for the return drive to the yacht in Milos.
Notes
If you desire to swim during the stop at Sarakiniko, please bring your towel from the yacht and wear your swimming clothes under your regular clothes, as there are no changing facilities. Please also return to the bus as dry as possible after swimming since it is not allowed to enter the bus with wet clothes.
A minimum participation is required to operate all Yachting Land Adventures and some have limited capacity. All adventures in the SeaDream Yachting Land Adventures program are subject to change. Final departures times will be announced onboard.
Take the time to unwind while exploring the traditional local dishes, wine and sites across Milos Island.
Board your vehicle for a scenic drive to the picturesque village of Plaka, which impresses its visitors with its authentic charm and beauty. Here you will have the opportunity to visit an old, refurbished café, where you can indulge in traditional Greek coffee made the real way. Also sample the famous watermelon pie and other homemade delightful, sweet flavors such as the delicious dessert known as “koufeto”. The tradition and method of producing this “spoon sweet” will also be explained.
After admiring the amazing scenery of Plaka and taking memorable photos, you will head to the unique Volcanic Cave Winery, where you will sample the local wine varieties along with delicious products grown on the farm. All within a beautiful and relaxing setting, nestled between the shade of olive trees.
Continuing on, you will be offered an introduction to the authentic local gastronomy of Milos at “Alevromylos”, one of the famous restaurants in Milos. The restaurant’s chef Vassilis will further expand your horizons with an introduction to the history of “Cucina Povera” and the most famous of its products, the “Pitarakia” of Milos.
The last stop will be at the incredible volcanic swimming pool of Papafragas Cave, situated alongside the ruins of one of the most important prehistoric sites of the Aegean Sea. Afterward board the coach for the return drive to the yacht in port.
Notes
August is peak season and if the restaurant is not available, then an alternative venue will be provided of similar quality providing a similar experience.
Please bring a towel from the yacht and wear your swimming suit under clothing as there are no changing room facilities. The beaches are rocky and water shoes are recommended.
A minimum participation is required to operate all Yachting Land Adventures and some have limited capacity. All adventures in the SeaDream Yachting Land Adventures program are subject to change. Final departure time will be announced on board.
Take the opportunity to capture unique images of Patmos Island and its daily life with your camera.
This tour, covering the south side of the island, not only gives you the opportunity of discovering hidden places but also an opportunity to photograph the most amazing land and seascapes along with developing your creative eye, composing images from geometric form and abstract pattern.
The tour commences from the Port of Skala by minibus to the old village of Chora, the island’s capital, and a photographer’s paradise! The first experience is a wonderful panoramic view over the island. With a turn or your head, you get a glimpse of the 11th century monastery built like a fort, standing with proud dominance. Your guide takes you through Chora’s labyrinth of winding cobbled streets and maze of arched alleyways which offer a feast of photographic inspiration. Observe the settlement of houses dating from the fifteen hundreds with their white-washed walls, reflecting the light, casting shadows and creating geometric patterns. The alleys, arches and doorways display a harmonious balance revealing subtle architectural details which, through your lens, can become exciting atmospheric images trapped in time.
Next, make your way descending to Diakofti stopping off to photograph the view of the mystical rock of Petra and then on to a boatyard. Here you will have the opportunity to photograph the local islanders at work and the streamline shapes of vessels in dry dock. You will also have the chance to enjoy a refreshment at a local café. Fulfilled with great images and pictures in your photo camera you will return to Skala port.
Notes
Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes, as there is extended walking over uneven surfaces and through narrow streets on this excursion. A minimum participation is required to operate all Yachting Land Adventures and some have limited capacity. All adventures in the SeaDream Yachting Land Adventures program are subject to change. Final departure time will be announced on board
Explore the UNESCO-listed Monastery of St. John the Theologian, the divine Grotto, and experience a glimpse of a traditional Patmian home.
Patmos is often called the Jerusalem of the Aegean, the sacred island where St. John wrote the Book of Revelations in the Bible. Depart from the pier today for a short scenic ride to Chora and the UNESCO-listed Monastery of St. John the Theologian, built high on an ancient acropolis. The monastery's massive 15th-century walls and 17th-century battlements loom over the town belying an intimate and peaceful interior of arches, inlaid pebble stone floors, and whitewashed buildings. The charming chapel of Christodoulos is profusely decorated with frescoes and the old treasury, now a museum, displays a breathtaking collection of jeweled chalices, crowns, crucifixes, vestments and ancient manuscripts.
Travel on to the Grotto of St. John where the saint heard the voice of God and wrote his revelations. It was here, the most sacred spot on the island, where St. John the Theologian spent 16 months in exile, and this simple cave is now a chapel and place of pilgrimage. Both the Cave and the Monastery have been UNESCO listed in 1999. The iconostases built into the cave depict St. John's visions and the spots where the saint slept, wrote, and heard "a great voice, as of a trumpet."
Back in Chora you will visit one of the traditional Patmian houses, the house of the Simantiris family. The magnificence of Patmian home interiors is stunning. Entering the thick wooden entrance door is like stepping into another dimension, with Venetian style furniture, handicrafts and multi-colored mosaic ceilings dating from the 18th century. After your visit, drive through the town of Chora on the way back to SeaDream in Patmos.
Notes
Proper (modest) dress code is required for the monastery and the Grotto. Women should wear skirts covering their knees and blouses covering their shoulders. Men should wear long pants and shirts covering their shoulders. This land adventure includes some uphill walking as well as steps in the upper town of Chora, the local home and at the Grotto. Therefore, flat and comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended.
A minimum participation is required to operate all Yachting Land Adventures and some have limited capacity. All adventures in the SeaDream Yachting Land Adventures program are subject to change. Departures times will be published onboard.
Swim, relax and enjoy the beach facilities at one of the most beautiful and sandy beaches of Mykonos Island – Elia beach.
Mykonos is known for its golden sandy beaches and crystal clear waters. Take this opportunity to enjoy some time at one of the famous beaches of the island, the sandy beach of Elia where necessary changing facilities, beach chairs and umbrellas are available. The beach of Elia is fully organized offering also a wide choice of water sports facilities.
Notes
Sunscreen and hats recommended.
A minimum participation is required to operate all Yachting Land Adventures and some have limited capacity. All adventures in the SeaDream Yachting Land Adventures program are subject to change. Final departure time will be announced on board.
Focus on the highlights of Mykonos Chora and the island’s charming interior on this fascinating photography tour. Meet with your National Geographic-trained photography guide who will give you tips on capturing the perfect photograph while introducing you to this wonderful destination through the lens of National Geographic. Visit Mykonos Town to discover Little Venice, the iconic windmills, and its labyrinth of streets. You’ll see the lighthouse and the Monastery of Ano Mera, where you will enjoy a typical Greek meal as the photographer reviews your photos.
Begin the tour with an insightful session led by your National Geographic-trained photography guide, who will give tips and techniques on composition, lighting, and storytelling through in your images. You’ll learn how National Geographic images help to tell their stories. You’ll also learn about the just-for-fun contest where your guide will select the “best photo” from your group. Throughout the tour, the aim is to photograph both traditional architecture and modern lifestyle.
Your photo stops begin in and around Mykonos Town, where you’ll have several key locations. Overlooking the town are the much-photographed windmills, standing proud with a prime view of the sea and beyond. Close by, you’ll find Little Venice replete with elegant old houses that are situated on the edge of the sea. Then, as you make your way into the town, you’ll have the opportunity to capture hidden gems as you walk through the labyrinth of streets.
Following a short journey inward, you’ll arrive at the lighthouse which overlooks the neighboring island of Tinos and offers the opportunity to capture some wonderful shots. You’ll also visit the village of Ano Mera and the Monastery of Panagia Tourliani which are perfect to practice the tips you have learned.
The tour ends at a local taverna where you’ll sit down for a delicious lunch of local cuisine along with a glass of wine or refreshment. As you enjoy the meal, your photographer guide will comment on the photos you and your fellow travelers captured throughout the tour, highlighting the best shots, and declaring the best photo on this amazing tour!
Notes
This Yachting Land Adventure must be booked 48 Hours (2 days) prior to arrival in the port to confirm its operation during your voyage. Please book on the Seadream.com website, or onboard, early to avoid disappointment. Cancellations after the deadline are non-refundable. A minimum participation is required to operate all Yachting Land Adventures, and some may have limited capacity. All adventures in the SeaDream Yachting Land Adventures or Nat Geo programs are subject to change. Final departure times will be published on-board.
This Yachting Land Adventure arrives at Delos Island by a boat from Mykonos. Delos is the island of lights and the mythical birthplace of the God Apollo. Admire the interesting monument of the Agora, the treasures of the various cities, the theatre and the Sanctuary of Apollo.
Not far from Mykonos lies UNESCO listed Delos, the island of light, the mythical birthplace of the God Apollo and the Goddess Artemis. Its name means “that which appears" and, according to mythology, the island appeared amid the waves so that Leto would have a place to give birth to Apollo and Artemis. Delos Island, an area of only five sq. km (almost 2 sq. miles), was once a very important religious, cultural and commercial center. Today, the island is a piece of land covered with archaeological sites: fallen columns, sections of the famous mosaics which adorned the houses of the rich, a stadium, and tiers of seats from a theatre. Among these ruins, five marble lions in a row still stand. These were the guardians of the sacred lake, still gazing out to the east waiting for the sun to rise.
Other interesting monuments, spread over a wide area, are: the Agora, the treasuries of the various cities, the Sanctuary of Apollo, the Theatre, the Sanctuary of the Foreign Gods and the Sacred Mt Cynthus. Leaving the sacred island of Delos you re-board your local boat for the 45-minute return to Mykonos town.
Notes
This land adventure operates from Mykonos only if the yacht does not call at Delos on the same itinerary. This visit includes a two-hour walk across uneven surfaces at the archaeological sites so please wear comfortable walking shoes. The departure time will be adjusted according to the departure time of the local boat schedule from Mykonos to Delos. There is very limited shade at the site so bring protection from the sun. There is a coffee kiosk on the island as well as restrooms near the pier on Delos. A minimum participation is required to operate all Yachting Land Adventures and some have limited capacity. All adventures in the SeaDream Yachting Land Adventures program are subject to change. Departures times will be published onboard
Duration
4 hour(s)
Price
119 (USD)
Prices are per person, in USD. Duration is in hours.
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