Mistral Stateroom
15% Ponant Bonus
14 m²
2
- Last staterooms
The Cyclades, in the Wake of Le Ponant
Lavrio (Athens) - Lavrio (Athens)
Dates:
12/07/2025
to
19/07/2025
Other available dates
days
nights on board
Le Ponant, the first Relais & Châteaux sailing yacht, like the finest travel address on the waters of the world.
“Eternity. It is the sea mingled with the sun”, according to a poem by Rimbaud. Whether you are a lover of the sea or a curious traveller, experience once again the indescribable joy of navigating under sail, bathed by the wind and sea spray, surrounded by the elements. Take your place aboard Le Ponant, a majestic three-mast yacht with elegant lines and an interior design created by the Jean-Philippe Nuel studio to be a warm and intimate setting with a very distinctive personality. As if you were on your very own yacht, match your inner tempo to the boat’s subtle oscillations and savour the freedom of living in the moment, being fully present for your trip.
Aboard its emblematic yacht, PONANT is reshaping the contours of cruising and invites you to experience a new way of discovering the wonderful Mediterranean shores, between olive groves and sun-drenched vines. From unique and iconic ports of call to private moments, experience the very essence of the Mediterranean and welcome the unexpected like a breath of freedom.
From the port of Lavrio, located very close to beautiful Athens, you will set sail in the direction of the Cyclades, these small heavenly islets scattered around the Aegean Sea.
Off the beaten path, from exclusive paradises to emblematic landscapes, your journey takes shape, following the rhythm of the wind and the secret havens. Drink in the pure moments of sailing, cleaving through the foam, as you set off to explore intimate coves and hillside villages.
Carried by the wind, you will head towards Tinos, one of the Greek archipelago’s most preserved islands. The serene atmosphere of this spiritual centre infuses its sumptuous scenery. The white rocks of Polyaigos soften the jagged coasts of this uninhabited island, a natural sanctuary bathed by the crystal-clear and turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea.
The discreet island of Serifos is ideal for a walk punctuated by the picturesque white houses that stretch into the distance, amidst a setting perfumed by the scents of thyme and marjoram. Here, the beach with its surreal blue will also tempt you for a swim.
You will leave the Cyclades and head towards the south-east of the Peloponnese. The fortified peninsula of Monemvasia will reveal itself, monumental, like a ship of stone overlooking the azure.
You will sail, senses heightened, towards Kythnos, a wild and hilly rock, tamed by traditional and environmentally friendly agriculture.
Planted with pine trees, olive trees and flowers, Spetses, known as “the island of jasmine”, is a popular haven of freshness in the Saronic Islands. The activities, designed for you and with you, create possibilities for going back to basics in a setting that is conducive to contemplation.
At your own pace, immerse yourself in wild and stunning panoramas, away from the crowds, and enjoy moments spent in harmony with nature: glass-bottom kayaking, snorkelling, paddle-boarding, bike riding*.
*The activities on offer will be confirmed on board by the captain according to the weather conditions, the itinerary and the cruise plan.
Ref : PO120725
Your itinerary
Enjoy the extraordinary experience of sailing aboard Le Ponant as though you were on your own private yacht. A limited-capacity yacht: a maximum of 32 passengers and as many crew members; a dedicated...
View detailed itinerary
Your trip in detail
Choose your stateroom
Choose your stateroom
Complete your trip
Complete your trip
Additional services
For more peace of mind, PONANT selects stays and flights then takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
You may also like...
You may also like...
- New
LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT
06/03/2025 to the 21/03/2025
LE LYRIAL
03/03/2025 to the 21/03/2025
LE PAUL GAUGUIN
LE BORÉAL
L'AUSTRAL
*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Discover all destinations
Services provided
- Concierge Service: tailor-made and fully customisable services, from your reservation until you return from your trip
- Inclusive Wifi internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- No lift, not suitable for people with reduced mobility
Select your stateroom category
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire.
For women: simple dress, skirt or trousers, blouse, polo
For men: pleated trousers or chinos, sports jacket, shirt, polo
ACCESSORIES:
- Polarized sunglasses
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
- Hat/cap
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- White or black and white outfit for a Theme evening.
PRECAUTIONS:
In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.
All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.
PONANT activities
Highlights
- Enjoy the extraordinary experience of sailing aboard Le Ponant as though you were on your own private yacht.
- A limited-capacity yacht: a maximum of 32 passengers and as many crew members; a dedicated chef.
- Sail on a ship propelled by the wind and enjoy the wonderful opportunities nature offers us to adapt the programme and navigate under sail whenever possible.
- As the wind carries you, rediscover your taste for shared happiness and the essential.
- (Re)discover the deep and secret soul of the Mediterranean and enjoy ports of call off the beaten path, revisited to offer you exclusive experiences.
- On board as on shore, soak up the local riches and traditions of Croatia, and savour authentic moments through cultural encounters and gastronomy.
- Exceptional moments on board and numerous water-based activities to rediscover the natural coasts of the Cyclades and the Peloponnese.
- A rich programme of included excursions.
Ports of Call & Excursions
12 July 2025 - Lavrio (Athens)
Embarkation 12/07/2025 from 16:00 to 17:00
Departure 12/07/2025 at 18:30
Near Athens, Lavrion is a peaceful port welcoming boats from around the world. The town has been known since ancient times for the silver-producing mines of Lavrion, which were major contributors to the wealth of Athens and to the Greek economy in the 20th century. Weather permitting, take a stroll through the town and discover the many vestiges of this industry that flourished until the 1980s: old Neoclassical-style constructions, industrial buildings, and worker houses. While at this port of call, also take the time to discover Athens and its acropolis, or Cape Sounion on which stands the magnificent temple of Poseidon.
13 July 2025 - Tinos
Arrival 13/07/2025 early morning
Departure 13/07/2025 late evening
At full sail, you will chart a course to Tinos, a wild island in the Cyclades where, according to mythology, Aiolos lived. The cerulean blue of the Aegean Sea reveals, in contrast, the pretty port with immaculate buildings. Called “the island of the Virgin”, this pilgrimage destination for Greek Orthodox Christians is also an intimate refuge where Athenians join their families for holidays. The magnificent landscapes of this unspoiled island are dotted with numerous dovecotes, each with a finely crafted architecture. Here, the pared-down decor of the picturesque villages with whitewashed stone houses reveals itself between the intertwining streets and colourful bursts of bougainvillea in bloom. Be captivated by the magic of a wine tasting. The breathtaking view of Mykonos offers an exquisite setting to this moment frozen in time. Included excursions are also possible to discover the island’s villages or a hike along a high point between two villages.
14 July 2025 - Polyaigos
Arrival 14/07/2025 midday
Departure 14/07/2025 early evening
Further to the south of the Aegean Sea, Le Ponant will reach Polyaigos, an uninhabited, maquis-covered volcanic island protected for its flora and fauna. This white, craggy, sunlit rock with magnificent cliffs that plunge into the turquoise waters reveals its wild and natural beauty. With your yacht at anchor, you will discover the island’s secret contours and recesses, and enjoy magical moments swimming, snorkelling, paddle-boarding or kayaking. Enjoy the charms of this stunning island until sunset when the white rocks are reflected in the crystal-clear waters, creating a golden shimmer.
15 July 2025 - Serifos
Arrival 15/07/2025
Departure 15/07/2025 early afternoon
The best words to describe Serifos are probably serenity and authenticity. This small island in the Cyclades archipelago is a port of call off the beaten track, on the waters of the Aegean Sea. The whiteness of its villages contrasting with its hilly scenery illuminates the dry vegetation that characterises the Cyclades. Its main town Chora, perched on the heights, can be reached by a steep path that offers unique panoramas over the deep blue sea and its magnificent bay.
16 July 2025 - Monemvasia
Arrival 16/07/2025 early morning
Departure 16/07/2025 evening
The jewel of the southern Peloponnese, Monemvasia is the romantic refuge for Athenians. Given the poetic nickname of the “stone ship”, this majestic peninsula is home to an incredible fortified medieval village, lying at the foot of its abrupt cliffs, which seems to have been cast by the gods from the Aegean Sea. Contemplate the horizon from its ramparts, a veritable walkway defying the azure waters, and stroll through its vaulted narrow streets with their thousand shades of ochre. At the crossroads of western and eastern influences and the maritime routes of the continent, Crete and the Cyclades, Monemvasia has preserved in this magical decor the treasures of Venetian and Byzantine architecture.
17 July 2025 - Kythnos
Arrival 17/07/2025 mid morning
Departure 17/07/2025 early evening
You will discover Kythnos, an arid and rocky island covered in maquis. Low dry stone walls delimit the terraces where olive groves stand alongside fig and almond trees that feed the imagination as much as the people. Discover the chora and its beautiful white houses by taking a stroll along the intertwined streets. Then, the welcoming shade of a parasol awaits you for a nap on the beach. You might also be tempted by a swim or a spot of paddle-boarding or kayaking to discover the exceptional landscapes of this island surrounded by the exceptionally beautiful Aegean Sea.
18 July 2025 - Spetses
Arrival 18/07/2025 early morning
Departure 18/07/2025 evening
Spetses, “the jasmine island”, is an unspoiled paradise and the favourite holiday spot of Athenian high society. The shaded outdoor dining areas of the restaurants serving local cuisine stand alongside beautiful boutiques. Away from the hustle and bustle of the world, stroll or cycle around the small port lined with the beautiful Neoclassical homes of shipowners and enjoy the pleasantness of the moment. There is a distinct dolce vita atmosphere in the air. From hidden coves to beaches of fine sand, this island is brimming with charm. The hiking trails through the pine forest also promise beautiful panoramas.
19 July 2025 - Lavrio (Athens)
Arrival 19/07/2025 early morning
Disembarkation 19/07/2025 at 08:00
Near Athens, Lavrion is a peaceful port welcoming boats from around the world. The town has been known since ancient times for the silver-producing mines of Lavrion, which were major contributors to the wealth of Athens and to the Greek economy in the 20th century. Weather permitting, take a stroll through the town and discover the many vestiges of this industry that flourished until the 1980s: old Neoclassical-style constructions, industrial buildings, and worker houses. While at this port of call, also take the time to discover Athens and its acropolis, or Cape Sounion on which stands the magnificent temple of Poseidon.
Chora walking tour
Discover the village of Chora, the capital of Tinos and the Church of Panagia. Also known as Panagia Evangelistria, this imposing church dedicated to the Virgin is an important place of worship for Orthodox Christians, attracting a multitude of pilgrims for the beautiful celebrations held on the 15th of August.
- This excursion involves approximately 1h30 of walking. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Appropriate dress is required to visit the church.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
The villages of Tinos
Visit two villages and discover the varied landscapes, heritage and local crafts that make this island so charming.
Strewn across the landscape, massive and rounded granite rocks in astonishing animal shapes arouse curiosity. In the heart of this moonscape, probably of volcanic origin, the small village of Volax, meaning “rock” in Greek, stands in the centre of the island of Tinos. There, you will be able to admire the basketwork of the villagers who carry on this traditional craft.
Further on, a Venetian tower watches over the radiant Pyrgos. Here, there is a long tradition of marble crafts, as evidenced by the museum that recounts the history of the stone and how it is worked in the region, but also by the small Pyrgos square and its fountain, draped in said stone. Enjoy some free time to stroll around the village before returning to the pier.
-
This excursion involves approximately 2 hours of walking. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes.
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Along the trails of Tinos
Traditional villages, wild trails, and breathtaking viewpoints await you on a hike through the enigmatic Tinos.
You will arrive at Exomvourgo, the island's third-highest mountain, where the hike will begin. Through the ruins of the Venetian castle, you will discover the millennial history of Tinos. Then you will walk down to Koumaros, a remarkable traditional village.
You will then follow the verdant paths leading to Voláx, a village built amidst large spherical granite rocks; these are unique and their origin remains a mystery. You will take a break with a coffee or a homemade lemonade and a local sweet.
Leaving Voláx, you will walk down a very old path to the village of Agápi (agápi means "love"), one of the prettiest and oldest on the island, built in a valley scattered with traditional dovecotes and water mills in ruins. You will stop at the village taverna where you can taste some of the local specialities, such as lountza, the local cheese, or a salad of capers and hand-made meatballs.
- This excursion includes 3 hours of walking on uneven ground. We recommend you wear comfortable clothes and walking shoes. You will be accompanied by an experienced local English speaking hiking guide.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Exploration of Serifos and the island’s history
Through the monastery and the old mines, discover the history of this island with preserved wild nature.
First of all, you will visit Livadi, the main port on Serifos. You will then go to see the Monastery of Taxiarches, devoted to the island’s patron saints, the Archangels Michael and Gabriel. Founded in around 1600, it looks like a small fortress. You will go around the church and the priests’ houses that surround it.
Then you will arrive at Mega Livadi, one of the main loading sites for the island’s mining industry. The site at the beach still has some traces of this mineral-loading bridge. You will explore the region and discover the island’s mining history, which came to an end in 1963.
You will enjoy a walking tour of Chora, the capital of Serifos. Finally, you will have time to taste some local specialities in a seaside taverna before you return to the port of Livadi.
-
The excursion includes around 90 minutes of walking on uneven surfaces.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Monemvasia, the medieval town
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 your shuttle bus from the tender point and start your exploration by entering the one and only gate of the city (Monemvasia comes from Moni = sole and Emvasia = entrance). The old 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 on the main alley and admiring the wonderful architecture of the houses on your left and right, you will end up at the square of Elkomenos. The square is dominated by the church of Elkomenos on the left, a mosque converted into a museum on the right and an old Turkish cannon in the middle of it.
At the end of the visit, you can enjoy a refreshment in a café and some free time to wander around and continue exploring this small town with its unique charm.
-
This excursion involves a fairly long walk on flat and uneven ground, with cobblestones and several steps. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and protection from the sun. This excursion is not recommended for persons with reduced mobility or in a wheelchair.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Relaxing on Apokrousis beach
Treat yourself to a day of perfect relaxation combining the pleasures of sunbathing and swimming with a treat for your taste buds!
Enjoy the beach appointed with sunbeds and parasols at Baiocco Beach Bar & Restaurant and have lunch in this private establishment’s beach restaurant. Located on Apokrousis beach, it is the perfect place to spend a day lazing around and relaxing in the calmness of Kythnos. Get away from it all in the crystal-clear waters while sipping a refreshing cocktail and choose from the tasty Mediterranean dishes on the menu.
-
We recommend you wear a swimsuit and a hat for sun protection. You will have to negotiate a few steps to get to the restaurant.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Hike to Panagia Daskalaki Church
Take one of Spetses’ most beautiful itineraries and admire the views over the Argolic Gulf.
From Spetses pier, a minibus will take you to the Agia Sotiria Church. This where the hike begins. You will follow a path that climbs along the ruins of the Miltiadi windmill and walk through an impressive pine forest, on Louviara crest. You will arrive at the Panagia Daskalaki Church, then the Vigla peak, by following the crest path to the Synantisi Kynigon crossroads. The small church of Panagia Daskalaki is located in the centre of the mountain. Every year, a festival is organised there to celebrate the first day of the church year as well as the start of the hunting season. The hike will continue down to Dapia.
-
This excursion involves approximately 3 km (1.9 miles) of walking on uneven ground. Participants must be in good physical condition. This excursion is only conducted in English. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and clothing.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Island of Spetses and the Bouboulina Museum
Travel by horse-drawn carriage on Spetses and make the most of the tranquillity of this island without cars. You will visit the museum dedicated to Laskarina Bouboulina and discover this sumptuous 17th-century building.
In the lively Dapia district, climb aboard a horse-drawn carriage and discover the old port, its palace and its shipowners’ houses. You will then visit the remarkable Bouboulina house, which is now a museum paying homage to Laskarina Bouboulina, the great heroine of the Greek War of Independence.
Built by a Mauritanian architect at the end of the 17th century, the Bouboulina residence bears witness to the architectural grandeur of the time. Its specific layout, in the shape of the Greek letter ?, is evidence of the importance of its owner, who was also a naval commander. Explore the museum, located on the first floor, and discover the riches of history that may be found within its walls. The large salon, the dining room, the hall and the fireplace hall are all evidence of bygone days.
After this dive into the island’s history, enjoy a mezze and a glass of ouzo in one of the town’s cafés. Finally, you will be able to return to the pier on foot or take the time to wander freely along the lovely promenade in the town of Spetses.
- The excursion involves about an hour of walking on cobblestones. Each horse-drawn carriage can seat two to four persons.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Le Ponant
This legendary yacht offers a uniquely exclusive voyage experience. An invitation to sail, revitalise oneself, share, contemplate and respect the world around us. An ode to freedom and the treasures of nature.
With its common areas open extensively to the horizon, you will have never felt such communion with the elements. With one crew member per passenger and just thirty-two guests on board, you will have never enjoyed so much attention. With navigation under sail the moment conditions allow, you will have never savoured each second that passes to such an extent.
Decks
Excursions included
During your journey, enjoy an excursion included per person per port of call, to choose from a selection offered by PONANT. Whether this is the visit of an emblematic museum or a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an activity in the heart of nature or a tasting of local products, or one of many other highlights, you will benefit from a careful selection of activities throughout your itinerary.
Pre-bookings will open around two months before the start of the cruise; requests will be processed on a first-come first-served basis, subject to availability.
The Travel Concierge service
Our Travel Concierge service is designed to make your trip an unforgettable one by offering services precisely tailored to your individual needs. These include private transfers, access to airport waiting lounges, home services during your absence and personalised stopovers.
Our Travel Concierge team is ready to help with the smallest details of your trip, so you can leave home care-free and enjoy the voyage with complete peace of mind.
Discover all the concierge services by clicking here.
Looking forward to accompanying you,
PONANT Travel Concierge Team
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
Chora walking tour
Discover the village of Chora, the capital of Tinos and the Church of Panagia. Also known as Panagia Evangelistria, this imposing church dedicated to the Virgin is an important place of worship for Orthodox Christians, attracting a multitude of pilgrims for the beautiful celebrations held on the 15th of August.
- This excursion involves approximately 1h30 of walking. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Appropriate dress is required to visit the church.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
The villages of Tinos
Visit two villages and discover the varied landscapes, heritage and local crafts that make this island so charming.
Strewn across the landscape, massive and rounded granite rocks in astonishing animal shapes arouse curiosity. In the heart of this moonscape, probably of volcanic origin, the small village of Volax, meaning “rock” in Greek, stands in the centre of the island of Tinos. There, you will be able to admire the basketwork of the villagers who carry on this traditional craft.
Further on, a Venetian tower watches over the radiant Pyrgos. Here, there is a long tradition of marble crafts, as evidenced by the museum that recounts the history of the stone and how it is worked in the region, but also by the small Pyrgos square and its fountain, draped in said stone. Enjoy some free time to stroll around the village before returning to the pier.
-
This excursion involves approximately 2 hours of walking. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes.
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Along the trails of Tinos
Traditional villages, wild trails, and breathtaking viewpoints await you on a hike through the enigmatic Tinos.
You will arrive at Exomvourgo, the island's third-highest mountain, where the hike will begin. Through the ruins of the Venetian castle, you will discover the millennial history of Tinos. Then you will walk down to Koumaros, a remarkable traditional village.
You will then follow the verdant paths leading to Voláx, a village built amidst large spherical granite rocks; these are unique and their origin remains a mystery. You will take a break with a coffee or a homemade lemonade and a local sweet.
Leaving Voláx, you will walk down a very old path to the village of Agápi (agápi means "love"), one of the prettiest and oldest on the island, built in a valley scattered with traditional dovecotes and water mills in ruins. You will stop at the village taverna where you can taste some of the local specialities, such as lountza, the local cheese, or a salad of capers and hand-made meatballs.
- This excursion includes 3 hours of walking on uneven ground. We recommend you wear comfortable clothes and walking shoes. You will be accompanied by an experienced local English speaking hiking guide.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Exploration of Serifos and the island’s history
Through the monastery and the old mines, discover the history of this island with preserved wild nature.
First of all, you will visit Livadi, the main port on Serifos. You will then go to see the Monastery of Taxiarches, devoted to the island’s patron saints, the Archangels Michael and Gabriel. Founded in around 1600, it looks like a small fortress. You will go around the church and the priests’ houses that surround it.
Then you will arrive at Mega Livadi, one of the main loading sites for the island’s mining industry. The site at the beach still has some traces of this mineral-loading bridge. You will explore the region and discover the island’s mining history, which came to an end in 1963.
You will enjoy a walking tour of Chora, the capital of Serifos. Finally, you will have time to taste some local specialities in a seaside taverna before you return to the port of Livadi.
-
The excursion includes around 90 minutes of walking on uneven surfaces.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Monemvasia, the medieval town
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 your shuttle bus from the tender point and start your exploration by entering the one and only gate of the city (Monemvasia comes from Moni = sole and Emvasia = entrance). The old 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 on the main alley and admiring the wonderful architecture of the houses on your left and right, you will end up at the square of Elkomenos. The square is dominated by the church of Elkomenos on the left, a mosque converted into a museum on the right and an old Turkish cannon in the middle of it.
At the end of the visit, you can enjoy a refreshment in a café and some free time to wander around and continue exploring this small town with its unique charm.
-
This excursion involves a fairly long walk on flat and uneven ground, with cobblestones and several steps. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and protection from the sun. This excursion is not recommended for persons with reduced mobility or in a wheelchair.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Relaxing on Apokrousis beach
Treat yourself to a day of perfect relaxation combining the pleasures of sunbathing and swimming with a treat for your taste buds!
Enjoy the beach appointed with sunbeds and parasols at Baiocco Beach Bar & Restaurant and have lunch in this private establishment’s beach restaurant. Located on Apokrousis beach, it is the perfect place to spend a day lazing around and relaxing in the calmness of Kythnos. Get away from it all in the crystal-clear waters while sipping a refreshing cocktail and choose from the tasty Mediterranean dishes on the menu.
-
We recommend you wear a swimsuit and a hat for sun protection. You will have to negotiate a few steps to get to the restaurant.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Hike to Panagia Daskalaki Church
Take one of Spetses’ most beautiful itineraries and admire the views over the Argolic Gulf.
From Spetses pier, a minibus will take you to the Agia Sotiria Church. This where the hike begins. You will follow a path that climbs along the ruins of the Miltiadi windmill and walk through an impressive pine forest, on Louviara crest. You will arrive at the Panagia Daskalaki Church, then the Vigla peak, by following the crest path to the Synantisi Kynigon crossroads. The small church of Panagia Daskalaki is located in the centre of the mountain. Every year, a festival is organised there to celebrate the first day of the church year as well as the start of the hunting season. The hike will continue down to Dapia.
-
This excursion involves approximately 3 km (1.9 miles) of walking on uneven ground. Participants must be in good physical condition. This excursion is only conducted in English. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and clothing.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Island of Spetses and the Bouboulina Museum
Travel by horse-drawn carriage on Spetses and make the most of the tranquillity of this island without cars. You will visit the museum dedicated to Laskarina Bouboulina and discover this sumptuous 17th-century building.
In the lively Dapia district, climb aboard a horse-drawn carriage and discover the old port, its palace and its shipowners’ houses. You will then visit the remarkable Bouboulina house, which is now a museum paying homage to Laskarina Bouboulina, the great heroine of the Greek War of Independence.
Built by a Mauritanian architect at the end of the 17th century, the Bouboulina residence bears witness to the architectural grandeur of the time. Its specific layout, in the shape of the Greek letter ?, is evidence of the importance of its owner, who was also a naval commander. Explore the museum, located on the first floor, and discover the riches of history that may be found within its walls. The large salon, the dining room, the hall and the fireplace hall are all evidence of bygone days.
After this dive into the island’s history, enjoy a mezze and a glass of ouzo in one of the town’s cafés. Finally, you will be able to return to the pier on foot or take the time to wander freely along the lovely promenade in the town of Spetses.
- The excursion involves about an hour of walking on cobblestones. Each horse-drawn carriage can seat two to four persons.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.