Experience Greece at its most enchanting, beginning with a stay at the contemporary Esse Athens 4*, where ancient history and vibrant city life meet. Continue your journey aboard an 8-night cruise through the sparkling Aegean, sailing between sun-drenched islands, crystalline waters and timeless coastal villages, for a seamless blend of culture, relaxation and discovery.

You may choose between two itineraries: Offer 1, which includes 1 night in Athens followed by an 8-night cruise; or Offer 2, which includes 1 night in Athens, an 8-night cruise, and an additional 2 to 5 nights in Athens to extend your stay and explore the capital in greater depth.

Our offers:

Nestled in the heart of Plaka, the historic soul of Athens, Esse Athens 4* is a contemporary boutique retreat set opposite one of the city's oldest preserved houses, the Benizelon Mansion. Blending neoclassical surroundings with modern design, the hotel places guests between the iconic Acropolis and the Cathedral, at the very centre of the old town.

Once an overlooked district, Plaka is now a lively maze of cobbled lanes, artisan shops and traditional tavernas, offering an authentic glimpse into Athenian life. Perfectly positioned for exploring ancient landmarks on foot, Esse Athens 4* is an intimate base where understated luxury and local character meet in the very centre of Greece's timeless capital.

Settle into the Cosy Room, perfect for two people looking to stay in the heart of bustling Athens. Its warm and welcoming atmosphere makes it a real little haven after a day spent exploring the city.

This is a bed and breakfast stay.

Unwind in stylish communal lounge spaces, ideal for reading, working or enjoying quiet moments after exploring the city. The atmosphere is intentionally understated, creating a peaceful retreat from the lively streets of Plaka below.

Thanks to its central location, leisure time naturally extends beyond the hotel, with easy access to cultural walks through historic neighbourhoods, scenic viewpoints and atmospheric evening strolls beneath the Acropolis.

Set sail on an 8-night cruise through the Ionian and Saronic seas, where legendary history, sun-drenched islands and crystal-clear waters create an unforgettable Greek escape. From the ancient Corinth Canal to the lush shores of Kefalonia, Corfu and Ithaca, discover a collection of islands rich in mythology, Venetian influence and natural beauty. Along the way, swim in hidden bays, wander charming harbour towns and experience authentic local life, from traditional tavernas to timeless coastal villages, all while enjoying the relaxed rhythm of life at sea.

8-night itinerary:

Day 1: Embark in Marina Zea → Corinth Canal → Kefalonia

Day 2: Kefalonia (Sami)

Day 3: Antipaxos → Paxos

Day 4: Corfu

Day 5: Ithaca → Vathi

Day 6: Ithaca → Nafpaktos or Messolonghi

Day 7: Corinth Canal → Agistri → Aegina

Day 8: Disembark in Marina Zea

Please note: your itinerary may have minor adjustments, but your overall trip experience will remain the same.

DAY 1: EMBARK IN MARINA ZEA → CORINTH CANAL → KEFALONIA | EMBARKATION: 2-3 PM

Embark in Marina Zea, Athens, and settle into your elegant floating home before setting sail through the legendary Corinth Canal towards Kefalonia. As the sun sets over the sea, enjoy a welcome dinner on board and the first moments of your Ionian escape.

Included:

• Embarkation between 2 and 3 PM
• Dinner  
• Overnight on board 

DAY 2: KEFALONIA (SAMI)

Wake up to the serene beauty of Kefalonia with a refreshing swim stop in a secluded bay near Sami, surrounded by crystal-clear Ionian waters. After lunch on board, arrive in the charming harbour town of Sami, famed as the setting of Captain Corelli’s Mandolin.

Spend the afternoon at leisure exploring the area’s natural wonders, from the enchanting Melissani Cave to the peaceful shores of Karavomilos Lake, or simply soak up the relaxed atmosphere of this picturesque coastal town before an evening enjoying authentic Greek flavours in a local taverna.

Included:

• Breakfast, lunch & dinner
• Overnight on board 

DAY 5: ITHACA → VATHI

Wake up anchored off a beautiful beach near Ithaca and enjoy a leisurely morning swim or breakfast on deck, surrounded by tranquil Ionian waters. After a BBQ lunch on board, sail into Vathi, the charming capital of Ithaca, famously linked to Homer’s Odyssey and the legendary home of Odysseus.

Spend the afternoon wandering along its picturesque waterfront, where colourful houses, traditional tavernas and relaxed island life create a serene atmosphere. As evening falls, enjoy the island’s authentic flavours in a local taverna or unwind on deck under the stars, soaking up the timeless tranquillity of this mythical destination.

Included:

• Breakfast, lunch & dinner
• Overnight on board 

DAY 6: ITHACA → NAFPAKTOS OR MESSOLONGHI

Depart Ithaca at sunrise and sail towards Nafpaktos or Messolonghi, enjoying a refreshing swim stop along the way. Lunch is served on board as you cruise through the Gulf of Patras.

In Nafpaktos, explore the Venetian harbour and medieval castle, while Messolonghi offers peaceful lagoons, birdlife and a town rich in history. As evening falls, enjoy dinner in a local taverna before rejoining the ship and continuing towards the Corinth Canal under a starlit sky.

Included:

• Breakfast, lunch & dinner
• Overnight on board 

Step aboard the M/Y Harmony G is a sleek, adults-only contemporary mega yacht designed for intimate cruising with a stylish edge. Featuring expansive sun decks, modern interiors and a chic, relaxed atmosphere, she offers a more design-led onboard experience, ideal for unwinding between Greece’s vibrant islands.

The M/Y Harmony V is a classic adults-only boutique-style yacht offering a warm, convivial cruising experience. With her generous outdoor spaces, comfortable lounge areas and easy access to the sea for swimming stops, she creates a friendly, laid-back atmosphere, perfectly suited to slow island-hopping and discovering Greece’s most secluded coves.

Decks: 3-4 | Cabins: 25 | Restaurant: 1 | Bar: 1-2 | Sun deck: 1

Accommodation in a Double or Twin Cabin in category A, B or C.

Settle into the Double or Twin Cabin Category C, a more refined and comfortable space with an elegant nautical design, offering a pleasant and restful retreat during your time on board.

This is a half board stay. Your breakfast and evening meal will be served in the main restaurant (excludes drinks).

Be guided through the centuries and experience the very essence of the ancient heritage that continues to fascinate the modern world with this visit to Athens.  

Be guided through the centuries and experience the very essence of the ancient heritage that continues to fascinate the modern world with this visit to Athens. 

Explore Athens on foot during a friendly street food tour in a small group, featuring six iconic tastings, from Greek coffee to souvlaki, in the heart of historic markets and neighbourhoods.

Enjoy a day trip along the Athenian Riviera to Cape Sounion to explore the Temple of Poseidon and take in spectacular views of the Aegean Sea.

Set off on a day trip to Delphi from Athens, with transport, a guide and lunch included, and discover this legendary site, featuring ancient ruins, a museum and the spectacular scenery of Mount Parnassus.

Discover Athens and its must-see attractions, from the Acropolis to the museum, followed by Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon, on a comprehensive day trip with a guide, lunch and transport included.

Set off from Athens on a half-day guided tour to explore ancient Corinth, its iconic canal, the Agora, the Temple of Apollo and the historic port where Saint Paul first landed, for a fascinating journey into ancient history.

Welcome to Greece

Sun-bleached ruins, dazzling coastlines, and olive groves as far as the eye can see—Greece is a land where ancient history and island-hopping adventure meet. Whether you’re tracing the footsteps of philosophers in Athens, sailing across the Aegean’s sapphire waters, or soaking up the laid-back charm of a taverna-lined village, Greece has a way of making you slow down and savour the moment.

Must-sees: 

• Wandering through the Acropolis in Athens at sunrise, when the Parthenon glows in soft golden light
• Exploring the whitewashed alleys of Santorini’s Oia, with postcard-perfect views over the caldera
• Hiking the Samaria Gorge in Crete, a dramatic canyon framed by sheer rock walls and wildflowers
• Visiting the monasteries of Meteora, perched impossibly atop towering sandstone pillars
• Unwinding on the secluded beaches of Milos, where lunar-like rock formations meet crystal-clear waters

Culinary culture

Greek cuisine is a celebration of fresh, sun-ripened ingredients and time-honoured traditions. Expect tangy feta, ripe tomatoes, and silky olive oil in every meal, whether it’s a crisp horiatiki salad or a slow-cooked lamb kleftiko. Tavernas spill onto cobbled streets, serving up grilled octopus by the sea and plates of meze designed for lingering conversation. Don’t leave without trying loukoumades—honey-drenched doughnuts that have been satisfying sweet cravings since antiquity.

Dive deeper

Beyond its famed islands and ancient ruins, Greece has a rich folkloric tradition that lives on in shadow-puppet theatre, village festivals, and Byzantine chants echoing through centuries-old churches. In the mountainous north, the stone-built villages of Zagori feel like a world apart, where arched bridges span deep gorges and locals still gather around wood-fired stoves on chilly evenings.

Good to know

Greece enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers and mild winters—peak travel season runs from June to September, but spring and autumn offer fewer crowds and ideal temperatures. The euro (€) is the official currency, and while English is widely spoken in tourist areas, a simple “efharistó” (thank you) goes a long way. Ferries are the lifeline of the islands, though some remote spots are best reached by a tiny propeller plane or an adventurous road trip.

Athens, the cradle of Western civilisation, invites visitors to delve into its rich tapestry of drama, philosophy, and culture. A journey through its ancient streets offers an immersion into the profound history that has shaped the modern world.

Must-sees:

• Acropolis and Parthenon: Stand atop Athens’ iconic hill and admire the Parthenon, a tribute to Athena, alongside the Erechtheion and Propylaea.
• Plaka neighbourhood: Discover a quaint maze of narrow streets, traditional tavernas, and hidden gems beneath the Acropolis.
• Changing of the guards: Witness the hourly ceremony at Constitution Square, steeped in tradition and pageantry.

Culinary culture:

Athens’ culinary scene is a celebration of flavours both traditional and modern. Sample authentic Greek dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and the ubiquitous tzatziki. Street vendors entice with sesame-crusted koulouri and fresh souvlaki wraps. For a modern twist, explore the burgeoning fine-dining scene, where chefs reinterpret classics using locally-sourced ingredients. Pair your meal with ouzo or a refreshing glass of retsina wine.

A dive deeper:

Beyond the landmarks, uncover Athens’ cultural layers in its lesser-known districts. Anafiotika, a tranquil enclave of whitewashed houses and narrow paths, mirrors the charm of the Cycladic islands. The National Archaeological Museum offers a comprehensive journey through Greek antiquity. Don’t miss the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre, a modern architectural marvel hosting world-class performances and exhibitions.

Good to know:

The local currency is the euro (€). Athens enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with spring and autumn being ideal for exploring. The efficient Metro system connects key areas, while taxis and trams provide additional convenience. Comfortable footwear is a must for navigating its historic sites and cobblestone streets.

Welcome to Greece
Kefalonia, the largest of the Ionian Islands, is a place of rugged mountains, rolling vineyards and turquoise bays. Its coastline is scattered with sheltered beaches, dramatic cliffs and hidden coves, while inland villages cling to hillsides, offering glimpses of traditional island life. Quiet roads wind through olive groves and pine forests, inviting exploration beyond the main towns of Argostoli and Sami.

Don’t miss

• Myrtos Beach, with its steep white cliffs and striking blue waters.
• The Melissani Cave lake is an underground chamber illuminated by sunlight.
• Assos village, a pastel-coloured harbour framed by Venetian architecture.
• Mount Ainos National Park is home to the island’s endemic black fir trees and panoramic views.
• Fiskardo, the northern port preserved from the 1953 earthquake, has quaint waterfront tavernas.

Culinary culture
Kefalonian cuisine draws heavily on local produce and seafood. Try fresh sardines grilled over coals, slow-cooked lamb with rosemary, and the soft, creamy local cheeses such as kefalograviera. Pair dishes with Robola wine, grown on the island’s sun-baked slopes, or sample honey and citrus-infused desserts that reflect the island’s fertile valleys.

Dive deeper
Small monasteries and Venetian-era chapels are tucked into mountainsides, offering insight into centuries of religious and architectural history. Traditional pottery and handwoven textiles are still made in villages such as Poros, where local artisans preserve crafts largely unchanged for generations.

Good to know
The euro is the local currency, and the main ferry connections arrive from Patras and Ithaca. The best time to visit is May to September, when the sea is warm, and most services are open, though spring brings wildflowers and quieter roads. Buses connect major towns, but a car is recommended to explore remote beaches and villages.

Nestled in the azure waters of the Ionian Sea, Corfu is a captivating Greek island that blends natural beauty with a rich cultural heritage. Known for its charming coastline, crystal-clear waters, and lush olive groves, this idyllic destination is perfect for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. Once home to Venetian, French, and British rule, Corfu boasts an eclectic mix of architectural styles, offering a vibrant and diverse history.

Must-sees:

• Corfu Town: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its Venetian architecture, cobbled streets, and bustling squares, reflecting the island’s rich history.
• Achilleion Palace: A stunning palace built for the Empress of Austria, featuring beautiful gardens and incredible views of the island.
• Kanoni & Mouse Island: A picturesque spot offering a panoramic view of the Mouse Island and Vlacherna Monastery.
• Paleokastritsa Monastery: A serene and historic site with incredible views of the Ionian Sea.
• Corfu’s Beaches: From the sandy shores of Glyfada to the more secluded coves like Agios Gordios, there’s a beach for every taste.

Culinary culture:

Corfu’s cuisine is a delightful mix of Greek and Italian influences, offering a rich variety of flavours and unique dishes. One of the island’s specialities is Sofrito, a tender beef stew cooked with garlic, vinegar, and a blend of herbs that brings a distinct taste to the table. Another traditional favourite is Pastitsada, a hearty pasta dish served with meat, tomatoes, and aromatic spices, making it a perfect comfort food.

Dive deeper:

Corfu offers a perfect combination of historic exploration and nature experiences. Discover its ancient ruins, stroll through olive groves, or take a boat tour to explore the island's hidden caves and beaches. For the more adventurous, water sports like windsurfing, diving, and sailing are all on offer. With its rich culture, warm Mediterranean climate, and stunning scenery, Corfu is an island that promises unforgettable experiences.

Good to know:

Corfu is a year-round destination with its warm Mediterranean climate, perfect for a spring or autumn getaway. The island’s beaches are best enjoyed from May to October, while the mild winters offer a more tranquil experience. With Corfu International Airport offering connections to major European cities, the island is easy to reach.