A stone's throw from the capital of Athens but still soaked in that Cyclades flavor, Kea is a lesser-known gem that other islands but makes for a great hangout for charter guests wanting to experience a local secret. Kea has been around since the bronze age which means it has a long history and a lot of archeological sites and ancient ruins to suit. One of the must-see ancient sites on Kea is the stone-carved lion which dates back to 600 BC. Get into the rhythm of life on Kea at the port of Korissia, where the pebbled beach comes flanked with colorful homes in shades of burnt orange against the blue sea. Hike the trail of the ancient cities that crosses over 40km and leads you through landscapes that were once home to cities of old. With a tender on hand, you can also explore the nooks and coves tucked into he coastal crannies of Kea.
As one of the smallest islands in the Cyclades chain, you get all the best parts crammed into one charming corner when it comes to Syros. Pastel shades, blooming bougainvillea, and crystal clear waters set the scene for a pretty port of call that is quite cosmopolitan. Charter guests can explore Ermoupoli - known as the queen of the cycles, this bustling town is all architectural grace and gleaming marble. Above the town, the Agios Georgios Cathedral is well worth the walk to see the 13th-century citadel complete with sweeping views. Beach lovers will find their bliss in Galissas where a sheltered cove makes swimming without a ripple a summer dream.
Mykonos is one of the most luxurious Greek islands, with its countless resorts and many great restaurants and bars. Mykonos is famous for the glamour of its nightlife, the island's main attraction after it's plethora of beautiful beaches. Anchor off "Little Venice", the charming seaside neighbourhood, with its row of waterfront cafes overlooking the sea, and stop at the Folklore Museum and the Archeological Museum. Shop by day or enjoy a sunset cocktail in one of the glamorous Mykonos bars.
Another paradise for lovely, fine-sand beaches is Paros, situated south of Mykonos. The quaint little harbour is full of fishermen's houses and Athenian retreats. Paros, much like Mykonos, is a windsurfing paradise, and home to windsurfing championships. Travel inland to The Valley of the Butterflies, where in summer you'll be able to see thousands of Tiger Moth butterflies fluttering their wings. Stay on the sister island of Antiparos for a peaceful anchorage, where there are several beaches and a spectacular Cave of Antiparos with its stalactites and stalagmites dating back 45 million years!
Wild and fragrant and bursting with flavor, Sifnos is known for being one of the prettiest ports of call in the Cyclades. Sifnos is a postcard with its whitewashed buildings, impossibly blue sea, and the sparkle of sunlight hitting already golden-soaked rocks. Charter guests should be sure to explore the stone streets of Kastro and make the short hike to see the enigmatic Church of the Seven Martyrs. This white-washed blue topped tiny church sitting precariously at the edge of a cliff has become a poster child for the ancient charm of Greece. The seafood and mezze here are spectacular with fresh calamari and octopus bruschetta a must while watching a sunset of dizzying color.
Named after a mythical king, it's no wonder that Kythnos feels like a fairy tale. With its rolling golden hills, charming stone huts, and absolute serenity, you couldn’t wish for a better escape in the Cyclades. The port of Merichas welcomes you in with its relaxing buzz and bright waterside cafes. Visit villages and caves and wander the colorful close-knit streets of Hora with their painted walls, local frescoes, and windmills. On the northern side, charter guests can seek steaming hot springs in Loutra, and with more than a hundred beaches to choose from, when it comes to sun and sand, you will be spoilt for choice.
Sounion is well known as the site for the Temple of Poseidon, one of the major monuments of the Golden Age of Athens, built in 440 BC. A sought after site to view the sunset of the Aegean sea.
Athens is all beauty and grit, history and the here and now - an eclectic combo that makes for a fascinating city stay. Under the shadow of the imposing Acropolis, Athens takes its place in the history books seriously. Home to temples and tales, the capital has been around since the 5th century, and unraveling its onion-like skin serves up ancient mythology, byzantine delights, ottoman edges, and an urban modern appeal that gives it its modern buzz. The Acropolis is a must for charter guests wanting to marvel at one of the best examples of Greek antiquity. Art lovers can swoon at the National Museum of Contemporary Art, and antique hunters will get their fill at the ancient neighborhood of Monastiraki with its rooftop bars and sprawling market scenes.