Get your cruise on with Elixir’s Divine Cyclades itinerary
With so many islands, Greece is rightly considered one of the top holiday destinations in the world. Some 300 hundred of them are scattered across the Aegean and Ionian seas with top spots like Santorini and Mykonos earning top billing for their amazing mix of fun, sun and hedonistic vibes. Cruising in Greece, thus, is one of the most popular modes of visiting all these islands, and if you’re not a fan of crowded experiences, you’ll be happy to know that Elixir cruises and its Divine Cyclades itinerary are operational and ready to go. 8 days and 11 islands are what stand between you and bliss. The Divine Cyclades cruise takes you to Mykonos, Santorini, Ios, Milos, Kimolos, Serifos, Koufonisia, Kythnos, Delos, Sifnos and Naxos. And its odes that in a 25-cabin capacity vessel that ensures you a modicum of privacy. This itinerary rolls out every Saturday, ending in late October, and as cruises go, it’s one to keep an eye out for.
Day 2
Starting in Cape Sounio (Lavrio), the first day sees you land in Sifnos, Milos and Kimolos. These three Cycladic islands are famed for their beauty, relaxed vibes, amazing beaches and awesome food culture. Sifnos, is a burgeoning foodie mecca that specializes in fava beans and fish, with the famed Omega 3 fish restaurant a magnet for patrons such as Tom Hanks, amongst others. It is here that Nikolaos Tselementes (the first Greek celebrity chef) was born and, it’s worth noting that Sifnos also has a robust marble sculpting tradition, too. As for Milos, its fame has extended exponentially over the past 5 years, with a multitude of show-stopping beaches such as Sarakiniko and a chill vibe. Meanwhile, Kimolos and its quiet demeanour give a sense of calm and serenity that is quickly gaining followers.
Day 3
Day 3, takes you to Ios and Santorini. Ios is a party island that is also one of the most sought after destinations, as apart from being lively, it also caters to families and couples. Following that, Santorini is next. Little is needed by way of introduction here. This is after all the Greek poster child of tourism and one of the most popular destinations in the world. Luckily, you get to spend it overnight, meaning you can catch the sunset from Oia. Cruising in Greece couldn’t be any better.
Day 4
Day 4 sees you wake up in Santorini and travel to the alluring Koufonisia, one of the most exotic Cycladic islands, with beaches that are pristine and serene. Plant your towel and let the sun go to work on you on one of its many sand patches, dip into the green-blue tropic-like waters and let your worries wash over you.
Day 5
The next day, it’s time for Naxos. This is the biggest Cycladic island and the most fertile. Unlike most other Cycladic islands, the terrain is different and is one of the reasons that Naxos has gained traction over the years, as its food produce is of the highest quality (Naxian potatoes are a delicacy), with meats, cheeses and all manner of local treats to keep you occupied in between dips into the big blue.
Day 6
Day 6 we spend in Delos and Mykonos. These two islands are right next to each other, but they may as well be on different planets, for one is an uninhabited islet that was the birthplace of the twins Apollo and Artemis and was considered a sacred ground where no one was allowed to die. Nowadays, several ruins are there for you to gawk at with day tours, where you can see how the ancients went about their idolatry duties. Mykonos, right across, is the fabled adult playground of the Mediterranean and one of the world’s biggest party spots, bar Ibiza and Las Vegas. Have at it.
Day 7
Your Greek cruise continues with Serifos and Kythnos, two of the least known islands. Serifos is an untouched piece of a hunk with spectacular nature and amazing crystal clear waters, while Kythnos is similarly endowed. Look out for the famous Kolones double-sided beach, where you can splash around on two levels.
Get your cruise on with Elixir’s Divine Cyclades itinerary
This summer, get your cruise on with Elixir. The joy of travelling with a smaller group is never lost on the intrepid and discerning out there, and this opportunity doesn’t come every day. Take full advantage.
