Join us for a relaxing and informative voyage to some of the most idyllic islands in the Aegean. Part of the joy of a cruise aboard a small vessel is its capability to dock in small ports and cruising aboard the delightful MS Monet is a wonderful way to experience the lesser known islands of the southern Aegean and encounter their timeless quality. In addition to some day time cruising which allows us to enjoy some magnificent views, there will also be some overnight moorings. These afford the opportunity to take a stroll after dinner in some marvellous places that are particularly atmospheric in the evening. For those who wish to swim in the intensely blue Aegean there will also be time at leisure to explore the local beaches.
We have devised our itinerary to allow ample time to wander through the whitewashed villages and picturesque harbours of some hidden Greek island gems such as Sifnos, Lipsi, Nisyros, Fourni and Symi. In addition, whilst ensuring a relaxing time will be had by all, we could not devise an itinerary in this wonderful region without including visits to at least some of the wonderful ancient sites in the area and we will discover the fascinating site of Ephesus where St Paul preached and spend some time on Patmos where we will visit the grotto of St John.
With a maximum of just 50 guests, our trips ashore will be a pleasure as we explore with local guides who will also join us on board for our cruise, adding immeasurably to our knowledge of the region. Whether you are interested in ancient history, Greek myths or simply the joy of cruising aboard a small ship and experiencing new places and islands in this beautiful region, our island hopping voyage has something for everyone.
- Off-the-Beaten-Path Cyclades Islands: Discover the lesser-known islands of Folegandros, Sifnos, and Syros. Explore the picturesque village of Chora in Folegandros and the traditional architecture of Sifnos. In Syros, experience the island's 19th-century prosperity through its architectural treasures.
- Hidden Gem of Fourni: Visit Fourni, a peaceful island with a fascinating history. Take time to explore the charming main square and embrace the tranquil atmosphere.
- Ephesus and Kusadasi: Immerse yourself in history with a visit to Ephesus, a stunning ancient city with well-preserved ruins, including the Library of Celsus. Explore Kusadasi at your leisure after the tour.
- Sacred Patmos and Greek Islands: Delve into the sacred history of Patmos, where St. John received his revelation. Visit the grotto of St. John and the Monastery of St. John the Theologian. Enjoy the picturesque town of Skala before continuing your journey to Lipsi and Leros for a taste of the lesser-visited Dodecanese islands.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to the MS Monet and embark. Enjoy welcome drinks and dinner as we sail this evening.
Arrive this morning at the little known island of Folegandros. Visit the clifftop capital of Chora, a wonderfully picturesque village with alleys lined with bougainvillea and hibiscus and a dramatic seascape over an edge which drops some 700 feet directly into the Aegean. Return to the ship for lunch and a relaxing afternoon at sea as we sail to Sifnos arriving in the early evening. This corner of the Cyclades is far from the well-trodden tracks of the big ships and you will be greeted by traditional white houses, picturesque churches and narrow lanes and alleys. Maybe take the chance for a pre or post-dinner drink ashore as we will moor overnight.
A morning tour of Sifnos will include Apollonia, the island’s tiny capital, the Virysianni Monastery and the villages of Kastro and Artemos, both delightful places to wander and admire the traditional architecture. Sail during lunch to Syros which was the largest cultural and trade centre of the Aegean in the 19th century and the capital Ermoupolis was Greece’s principal port. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon with a stroll in the town of Ermoupoli, the capital of the Cyclades. The prosperity of the island in the 19th and early 20th century created through commerce and shipping is reflected in the architecture with a beautiful square, town hall and theatre. We will sail late this evening allowing time for those who wish to take an after-dinner stroll.
After a morning at sea we arrive at one of the best kept secret islands in the Aegean, Fourni. Once a haven for pirates who enjoyed the island’s remote setting and little changed for centuries, it has a wonderfully peaceful atmosphere. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure to walk up from the harbour to the charming main square and enjoy a drink whilst observing island life.
Today we explore Samos which lays claim to be the birthplace of Hera, the mathematician Pythagaros and philosopher Epicurus. From the port of Vathy we will visit the excellent archaeological museum with one of the richest collections in Greece including the five metre tall Kouros rescued from the Heraion and dedicated to the god Apollo. Continue to the Sanctuary of Hera, the second largest temple ever built in Greece dating from the 6th century BC before arriving at the charming village of Pythagorio. Return to the MS Monet for lunch and enjoy a free afternoon in Vathy where you may wish to learn about the local wine production at the museum of Samos wines, visit a local beach or wander through the historic quarter of Ano Vathy. We moor overnight for anyone wishing to take an after dinner stroll.
Arrive in Kusadasi over breakfast. From our berth we will drive to the nearby ancient city of Ephesus, a stunning and partially excavated site where digging has been taking place for over a century. Broad streets are lined by impressive buildings including the Library of Celsus and the temples of Serapis and Hadrian. Once the capital of Ionia, St Paul preached here on his second missionary journey and we will see the Church of the Virgin Mary, the most important Christian monument in Ephesus. Also see the spectacular Grand Theatre, originally built in the 3rd century BC by the Greeks, and later expanded by the Romans to its present capacity of 24,000. We will enjoy an afternoon at leisure in Kusadasi.
Of all the Greek islands, Patmos is the most sacred to Christians both Orthodox and Western and it was here that St John received his revelation. This morning we will make our way to the grotto of St John. This small cave, now converted into the beautiful chapel, is where the Saint lived, had his revelation and wrote ‘Book of the Apocalypse’. From here continue to the village of Chora, with its simple houses and Byzantine churches and climb to the Monastery of St John the Theologian. Upon entering into the courtyard, admire the intricate pebbled laid floor, decorated arches and frescoes adorning the entrance to the chapel of Christodoulos. Return to the MS Monet for lunch and this afternoon and evening is at leisure to explore the picturesque town of Skala or maybe enjoy a swim at a nearby beach. Over dinner we sail the short distance to Lipsi where we moor overnight.
Today we can use our small ship to visit two of the less visited islands of the Dodecanese. Spend the morning on Lipsi. At just eight kilometres long, the tiny island of Lipsi is popular with yachts and has avoided the development of many surrounding islands. It is a wonderful place to spend a few hours walking amongst the whitewashed houses or take the opportunity to visit a local beach for a swim. Over lunch we sail to Leros, the island of Artemis the God of hunting. We will drive to the capital, Platanos to see the Pandeli Castle which overlooks Agia Marina offering wonderful views from the ramparts to the harbour below and islands beyond. The Battle of Leros was a central event in World War II and we will also visit the War Museum and Commonwealth Cemetery before returning to the vessel.
Arrive this morning at the small island of Nisyros. From the port of Mandraki we drive to the Polyvotis Volcano named after the Titan imprisoned under the rock of Nisyros during the battle with the gods. Here we will learn more of the legends and have the chance to walk into the caldera. Alternatively, maybe wander through the village, climb to the Monastery of Panagia Spiliani or visit the archaeological museum. We sail this afternoon to the island of Symi where we moor overnight.
Spend the morning on the island of Symi, a small, mountainous and much indented pretty island. The harbour of Gialos is particularly attractive and we have time to stroll through the colourful cobbled streets. The Simians were famous boat builders and are mentioned in the Illiad as sending boats to assist the siege of Troy but are better known today for their sponge diving. In the mid afternoon we sail to Rhodes arriving in the late afternoon and moor overnight.
Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for the return scheduled flight to London.
Itineraries are subject to change.
Monet
She has ample seating space for moments of relaxation, a mini-library with a variety of books and magazines and modern A/V equipment for presentations. Keep in shape during your cruise at the gym, featuring a variety of fitness equipment. The glass-enclosed dining room seats up to 60 passengers and allows for panoramic views of the stunning scenery you will cruise along. The bar and lounge with an open deck in the back offer an ideal spot for reading,relaxing, or dancing under the stars to the sounds of mesmerizing music.
At 223 ft/68 m long, the Monet can accommodate up to 60 guests in 30 double bedded or twin cabins, located on the Camille, Parisian, and Lumiere Decks. Cabins on the Camille and Parisian Decks feature two oversized portholes, while cabins on the Lumiere Deck have large windows. All cabins offer central A/C and ventilation, a mini-bar, flat screen satellite TV, phone system, and hairdryer. The Monet is also equipped with a Wi-Fi internet connection (free of charge). The latest state of the art safety equipment is installed on board and maintained by all 29 trained crew members. The ratio of guest passenger to crew members allows for an exquisite service experience.
RestaurantThe restaurant is filled with elegance and the whimsy of fun and bright colors. Sumptuous dining options are provided to entice the palate and compliment the ports of call. Enjoy conversing with fellow guests about adventures had and ahead or spend quality time with your travel partners and discuss the amazing wine. The panoramic views will stun you.
LoungeThe décor is tastefully stated to not over power the elegance of our guests. It is adorned with golds and neutrals. You will shine here. Providing aptly oversized seating to enjoy libations and gathering together with travel companions and new friends. Come here to relax and chat about a perfect end to a day that was filled with incredible sights, sea air and culinary delights.
Deluxe Double Cabin This beautifully appointed accommodation will allow the traveler the opportunity to slumber and wake rejuvenated. Enjoy resting on a double bed, a comfortable desk/vanity, a flat screen satellite TV and a private well-appointed bathroom. The décor is warm and inviting with nostalgic art inspired by M/S Monet’s history in mind. These were specially chosen to provide the utmost relaxing environment. Sleep and relaxation are invited into this space after soaking up the beauty, culture and Adriatic air.
Deluxe Twin Cabin This delightfully appointed cabin allows travelers to sleep and have quiet time that salt air and sea travel induces. Rest peacefully on twin ample mattresses, a comfortable desk/vanity, a flat screen satellite TV and a private well-appointed bathroom. The décor is bright and cheery with pleasant tones. You will dream well here and be rested for yet more adventures and epicurean travels.
Open Deck The deck is designed with pure enjoyment and service in mind. It is a bright and warm environment. You will find the classic detail of teak furniture to be the ideal seating area for reading, relaxing, dining or enjoying fine wine. The bar and lounge of the Open Deck permit the coast to be in sight as you dance and enjoy the company of fellow travelers. The seas reflect and shimmer as you partake in a true experience of traveling on a classic yacht.
Sun Deck Relax on the Sun Deck and soak up the sun of the Adriatic Sea with outstanding and uncompromised views. The nautical experience of the open air accomplishes relaxation, tranquility and the true ambience of the coast.
