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$900 (p/p)

Sailing the Ionian Islands Tour

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Sailing the Ionian Islands OVERVIEW

TOUR SUMMARY

8 days

Corfu to Corfu

From

$900 (p/p)

Country(ies): Greece

Tour type: Small Group

Group size: Min: 2 | Max: 25

Accommodation: Gulet Cabin

Meals:

Transport: Gulet Sailboat

Highlights: UNESCO listed Corfu Old Town, Islands of Sivota and Mourtos, beautiful Parga, the hidden gem of Antipaxos, the coves of Lakka and Paxos.

Embark on an unforgettable 8-day sailing odyssey, immersing yourself in the serene beauty of the Ionian Islands. Nestled amidst the azure waters of the Ionian Sea, these islands boast verdant landscapes, secluded coves, and a tranquil ambiance that beckons adventurers and nature lovers alike. Step aboard our traditional gulet and set sail on a journey filled with discovery and relaxation.

Commencing in the historic Old Town of Corfu, your voyage begins with a visit to the picturesque fishing village of Kassiopi, nestled on the northern shores of the island. As you bid farewell to Corfu's shores, the gentle breeze guides your vessel southward, leading you to enchanting destinations waiting to be explored.

Traverse the crystalline waters to reach the charming harbor town of Sivota, where time seems to stand still amidst its quaint charm. From there, sail onwards to Mourtos, where the mesmerizing Blue Lagoon awaits, inviting you to immerse yourself in its azure embrace. Delve into the depths of Pananikolis cave, a natural wonder shrouded in mystery and intrigue, before continuing your southward journey.

Next on the itinerary lies the captivating village of Parga, renowned for its captivating beauty and rich history. Wander through its winding streets adorned with vibrant bougainvillea and discover the remnants of its Venetian past, evoking a sense of nostalgia and wonder. As the sun sets over the horizon, indulge in the delectable flavors of Greek cuisine at one of the charming tavernas that line the waterfront.

Venture further southwest to uncover the hidden gems of Paxos, Antipaxos, and Lakka Paxos, where pristine beaches meet crystalline seas in a breathtaking display of natural beauty. Sink your toes into the soft sands of Paxos' white beaches, framed by lush olive groves and rugged cliffs. Explore the secluded shores of Antipaxos, where turquoise waters beckon you to take a refreshing dip amidst the tranquility of nature's embrace. In Lakka Paxos, lose yourself in the laid-back ambiance of this idyllic coastal village, where time slows down and every moment is savored.

This immersive experience is perfect for those seeking adventure, relaxation, and the opportunity to forge lasting memories amidst the splendor of the Ionian Islands. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or a first-time explorer, our expert crew is dedicated to ensuring your comfort and satisfaction throughout the journey.

Join us on this group tour, available with regular departures from May to October, and embark on a voyage of discovery through the enchanting Ionian archipelago. Uncover the hidden treasures of Greece's most captivating islands and create memories that will last a lifetime.

ITINERARY

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Day 1:   Embark in Corfu

The Gulet will be available for boarding from 5pm today. We will provide joining instructions for where to find the boat in Corfu Harbour. Prior to embarking, we recommend taking the time to explore the UNESCO listed Corfo Old Town, where you'll plenty of traditional tavernas, local produce markets and a good selection of interesting shops. After boarding your gulet, you'll have the opportunity to meet your fellow travellers and enjoy your first dinner onboard whilst sailing to our first stop - Kassiopi.

OVERNIGHT:

On board gulet

MEALS:

Dinner

EXTRAS:

None


Day 2:   Sailing around Sivota and Mourtos Islands

The Ionian Islands are known for their lush forests, green hills and abundant olives groves, not to mention the clear waters and white beaches! Today you'll be sailing around the Sivota and Mourtos Islands, located south of the Corfu mainland. 
After arriving here you'll spend time sailing around the islands, visiting the Blue Lagoon and the famous Papanikolis Cave, which played an important role in WWII, sheltering Greek war ships. 
Later today, you'll have free time to explore the traditional Marina Village, where you'll have time to eat in one of the many tavernas.

OVERNIGHT:

On board gulet

MEALS:

Breakfast, Lunch

EXTRAS:

None


Day 3:   Exploring Parga

Parga, with its two crystal clear bays and Venetian Castle is often described as one of the most beautiful villages in Greece. For those visting Greece in the summer months, a stop in Parga is a must! You'll have plenty of free time today to explore the town or visit one of the beautiful beaches. 

Note: As Parga has a relatively undeveloped port infrastructure, it is not always possible to find space for our gulet to dock. If this is the case, it may be necessary for you to take a water taxi to reach the shore. The cost of this is not included in the overall trip price. 

OVERNIGHT:

On board gulet

MEALS:

Breakfast, Lunch

EXTRAS:

None


Day 4:   Hidden Antipaxos

Despite its small size, Antipaxos is a true hidden gem. After arriving on the island, we'll fill up with an onboard lunch before a day of exploring the coast. We'll visit some of the islands most secluded and tranquil bays. We'll also visit the famous beaches of Voutoumi and Vrika. Whilst here, you'll have the chance to snorkel in some of the clearest waters in Greece or take a walk to one of the three main towns of Gaios, Loggos or Lakka.
In the evening, the group will normally visit a beachfront restaurant for dinner together - the cost of dinner is not included in the overall trip price.

OVERNIGHT:

On board gulet

MEALS:

Breakfast, Lunch

EXTRAS:

None


Day 5:   Beautiful Paxos

Today we'll visit Paxos, known for its excellent Olive Oil, which is often considered one of the worlds best varieties. You'll have time today to explore this lush green island, why not consider renting a bycycle to head to one of the secluded coves which surround the island. Alternatively you can spend the day exploring the city, eating traditional seafood and meze or grab a drink in a local taverna (which are often run by the local fishermen). 

OVERNIGHT:

On board gulet

MEALS:

Breakfast, Lunch

EXTRAS:

None


Day 6:   Paxos Island

Today we'll visti the island of Paxos, known for it's secluded coves and sea caves. As it's not possible to dock in Lakkas marina, we'll dock in one of the many private coves from where you'll be able to explore the nearby village and beach. The Ionian Sea in this part of Greece is known as a diving/snorkelling hot spot, a dream for underwater explorers!

OVERNIGHT:

On board gulet

MEALS:

Breakfast, Lunch

EXTRAS:

None


Day 7:   Return to Corfu Old Town

After spending the week exploring the Ionian Islands, today we'll return to Corfu, basing ourselves in the Old Town Port. You'll have plenty of time today to further explore the town or head to the Venetian Fortress. You'll have a last chance to purchase locally produced souvenirs.
Our final night onboard will be spent docked in the Old Town Marina, where the crew will offer an optional traditional group dinner in town, before returning to the gulet for our final night onboard together. 

OVERNIGHT:

On board gulet

MEALS:

Breakfast, Lunch

EXTRAS:

None


Day 8:   Departure Day

Today your Greek adventure comes to an end, after breakfast and taking time to bid farewell to the crew and your fellow travellers, disembarkation will take place at 9am in Corfu.

OVERNIGHT:

N/A

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

None


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Included:
  • Transportation by Gulet boat
  • 7 nights gulet accommodation in a double cabin
  • Services of captain and supporting crew
  • 7 Breakfasts,6 Lunches, 2 Dinners

Excluded:
  • International Flights
  • Airport transfers
  • Port Fees (€80.00 per person, payable at the start of your trip)
  • Pre/Post tour Accommodation
  • Compulsory Travel Insurance
  • Suggested optional activities
  • Tips - Captain and Gulet crew
  • Drinks, snacks and personal expenses
Notes:

  • Gulet cruises and itineraries are subject to alterations while en-route or before departure. These are subject to the final decision of the boat captain and out of our control and may be made at short notice due to weather conditions, the number of other boats in certain bays or other practical reasons. The same overall experience will be maintained. 
  • Please note that port fees are not included in the cost of this trip, these amount to €80.00 per person. This will be collected at the start of your trip.

 

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Dates and Prices

Availability during peak summer months is limited, we recommend you book early. The Gulet is also available to book as a private charter for groups. Please contact us for details and prices.

Start Date
End Date
Price (P/P)
Offer price
Note

17th of May 2025

24th of May 2025

$980.00

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24th of May 2025

31st of May 2025

$980.00

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31st of May 2025

7th of Jun 2025

$980.00

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5th of Jul 2025

12th of Jul 2025

$1140.00

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12th of Jul 2025

19th of Jul 2025

$1140.00

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19th of Jul 2025

26th of Jul 2025

$1140.00

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26th of Jul 2025

2nd of Aug 2025

$1140.00

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2nd of Aug 2025

9th of Aug 2025

$1140.00

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9th of Aug 2025

16th of Aug 2025

$1140.00

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16th of Aug 2025

23rd of Aug 2025

$1140.00

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23rd of Aug 2025

30th of Aug 2025

$1140.00

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30th of Aug 2025

6th of Sep 2025

$1140.00

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4th of Oct 2025

11th of Oct 2025

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Accommodation

The hotels and accommodations listed below are the ones we most often use on this tour. From time to time we may exchange these for similar properties at the same level. In general, specific hotels cannot be guaranteed on our group tours, but you may select your preferred options if you are booking a tailor-made trip.

Sailing the Ionian Islands Gulet

Sailing the Ionian Islands Gulet

Ionian Islands

Local rating

Our rating

 Sailing the Ionian Islands Gulet Sailing the Ionian Islands Gulet

The gulet generally used on this tour can accommodate a total of 25 passengers, in its 9 cabins. Though we do occasionally use other gulets of a similar standard on this route.
All cabins feature comfortable mattresses, reading lights, a wardrobe, and an electric fan. Additionally, their own A/C device, a hair dryer, and their own private shower and toilet.

The gulet offers a spacious outdoor dining area, surrounded by comfortable cozy cushions for you to enjoy your group meals, or for you to just lay back and enjoy your holidays!
Besides the outdoor dining area, there is a huge front deck area, filled with comfortable deck pillows and deck chairs with an additional deck couch, for plenty of relaxation, meditation and sunbathing!

Inside, there is a sitting area, with a TV and speakers where you will be able to mingle with the rest of your group, listen to some music, play some board games or read a book from our library. In the same sitting area is our onboard bar, which will be at your dispense, throughout the whole cruise! The gulet, offers a 3G Wi-Fi connection and is fully crewed, with a captain, an engineer, a steward and a chef, in order to make sure that the cruise will run smoothly for you and that you feel comfortable throughout your onboard stay with us!

The gulet generally used on this tour can accommodate a total of 25 passengers, in its 9 cabins. Though we do occasionally use other gulets of a similar standard on this route.
All cabins feature comfortable mattresses, reading lights, a wardrobe, and an electric fan. Additionally, their own A/C device, a hair dryer, and their own private shower and toilet.

The gulet offers a spacious outdoor dining area, surrounded by comfortable cozy cushions for you to enjoy your group meals, or for you to just lay back and enjoy your holidays!
Besides the outdoor dining area, there is a huge front deck area, filled with comfortable deck pillows and deck chairs with an additional deck couch, for plenty of relaxation, meditation and sunbathing!

Inside, there is a sitting area, with a TV and speakers where you will be able to mingle with the rest of your group, listen to some music, play some board games or read a book from our library. In the same sitting area is our onboard bar, which will be at your dispense, throughout the whole cruise! The gulet, offers a 3G Wi-Fi connection and is fully crewed, with a captain, an engineer, a steward and a chef, in order to make sure that the cruise will run smoothly for you and that you feel comfortable throughout your onboard stay with us!

Options

Our tours are designed to include all that you need to enjoy a really special time in the destination you‘re visiting. However, we do also offer some extra options to complement the tour and add some additional sightseeing or activities, or some extra time at either end of the tour.

All accommodation based options (e.g. Single supplements, extra nights, cruise upgrades) should be booked and paid for in advance so that we can make the appropriate arrangements. Other options may either be booked and paid for in advance or while you are on the tour, though we recommend booking in advance to ensure there are no issues with availability.

Many options are priced the same throughout the year, but some may incur single or high season supplements - full details are given on the tour reservation form or on request.

Single cabin supplement (GRSGIO)

From $440*

Single cabin supplement (GRSGIO)

Min numbers: 1 *Based on 1 person/s


Due to the style and nature of this cruise and the bedding arrangements in the cabins, we do not arrange room shares between people not travelling together. This option therefore provides a single cabin on board the gulet for the duration of the cruise and should be added by all solo travellers. 

Note: Single supplement prices may vary seasonally.

Extra Services

From On Request *

Extra Services

Min numbers: 1 *Based on 1 person/s


A selection of extra services are available on this trip, these should be booked and paid for prior to arrival. If you would like to add any of these options to your booking, please let us know.

  • Corkage Fee - 450.00 EUR per week 
  • Early Check-in - 220 EUR (between 14:00 to 17:00)
  • Kayak hire - 165 EUR per week
  • Stand Up Paddle Board (SUP) - 220 EUR per week
  • Overnight A/C - 155 EUR per person per week (between 00:00 and 08:00)
  • Bus Transfers - Please contact us for pricing
  • Birthday Events onboard (cake included) - 135 EUR
  • Island Excursions (contact us for details)

    Notes:
  • Corkage Fee - This option allows you to bring your own drinks onboard.
  • Overnight A/C - The service also includes a fan. The overnight A/C cannot be substituted by the included A/C during day time hours.

Food & Drinks

From On Request *

Food & Drinks

Min numbers: 1 *Based on 1 person/s


Pre-bookable dinner and drinks packages are available on our Greek sailing tours. Approximate bar pricing is also provided below, rates are generally updated for the coming year in January.

  • Local White/Rose wine - 4 EUR per glass / 18 EUR per bottle
  • Beer (330ml) - 3 EUR
  • Vodka (glass) - 4 EUR
  • Rum (glass) - 4 EUR
  • Gin (glass) - 4 EUR
  • Mineral Water (1.5l bottle) - 1 EUR
  • Tea (cup) - 2 EUR
  • Filter Coffee (cup) - 3 EUR
  • Espress Coffee (cup) - 3 EUR
  • Ouzo (shot) - 2 EUR
  • Aperol (glass) - 4 EUR
  • Tonic (330ml) - 2 EUR
  • Soft Drinks (330ml) - 2 EUR

If you would prefer to pre-purchase a drinks or dinner package, these must be booked prior to arrival, pricing is provided below:

  • Dinners - 28 EUR per meal
  • Premium Dinners - 55 EUR per meal (Fresh Fish etc.)
  • Drinks Package (water, soft drinks, local beer, local wine) - 23 EUR per person per day
  • Premium Drinks Package (water, soft drinks, local beer, local wine, alcoholic drinks) - 45 EUR per person per day

Tour Notes

The detailed Tour Notes below have been written to give you some more detailed information about how the tour runs, what to expect, and how to prepare for your holiday. We recommend downloading an up to date copy of these shortly before you travel in case of any changes.

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  1. Gulets in Greece

Spending a few days on a traditional gulet (a handmade, motorised wooden yacht) is one of the highlights of exploring the Greek Islands. You can enjoy plenty of swimming and snorkelling and explore loads of natural and historical sites along the way. As you cruise you can sunbathe on the deck, or read a book or play games on the cushioned seating in the shadow of the aft deck.

Most of the gulets we use feature an interior salon/bar area, both indoor and outdoor eating areas, and a fully equipped galley. The gulets we use in Greece generally carry up to 25 passengers, in 9 cabins (on our Mykonos Gulet, we use a larger vessel carrying up to 46 passengers). All cabins have ensuite toilet & shower facilities. Single or twin bedded cabins are not generally available unless we have an odd number of people travelling so be prepared for a same-sex room share if you are travelling alone. This being said, many people choose to sleep under the beautiful Mediterranean sky on mattresses on the deck, and only use their cabins as a wardrobe.

The gulets we use are motorised pleasure craft with sails, and while they can manoevre under sail, the majority of the time the motor will be used. This is particularly the case during July and August when winds are very low. Strong winds also cause them to bank steeply and so time actually under sail is generaly very limited. These are not sailing vessels where you are expected to help with the rigging or take part in sailing as an activity. 

The gulets come with facilities for both outdoor and indoor dining. There are freezers to keep drinks cold, a CD/cassette player (so bring your music!), snorkels and masks, fishing lines and some board games.

You will need to bring your own beach towel and other personal items with you. Charging points are available for your electronic devices in your cabin (you will need to bring an adapter).

Health & Safety:
A dinghy with outboard, a ship-to-shore radio, mobile telephone and life jackets are also provided.
Please keep away from ropes and hawsers while sailing. Do not jump into the sea while the engine is running. In case of fire please check the position of your nearest life jacket and fire extinguisher - alert everybody on board and put on your life jacket immediately.
All the gulets we use are government approved with fully qualified captains.

Accessibility:
The boats we use are not suitable for passengers with special mobility needs. Embarkation gangways do not fit all types of wheelchairs and cabin bathrooms and staircases have restricted space and are generally unsuitable for people with limited mobility. 
If you have other physical disabilities please contact us with any queries. It is expected that any passengers requiring special attention, assistance or treatment will be travelling with an escort. 


  2. Group Size/Tour Leaders/Guides

We are committed to being a small group operator, as we feel this gives everyone in the group the best chance to get to know their fellow travellers and to make the most of their trip. So, we have selected Gulet boats which will allow us to have plenty of space but restrict the group size to a maximum of 25 people, accommodated in 9 cabins.

On Gulet cruises, you will be looked after by the boat captain and their crew. The captain and most crew will speak some English - enough to communicate effectively, if not fluent. We do not send an additional tour guide on our gulet cruises.


  3. Accommodation

Our tours in Greece use a range of hotels mainly at the local 4-star level with some more boutique style properties or deluxe guesthouses also used where possible, especially on the Greek Islands. Please check the Accommodation section for more information on the normal accommodation used on this tour. This list is given as a guide though and hotels may change from time to time to others of a similar standard. If you have specific requests for individual hotels, please contact us about a private/tailor-made tour.

We regularly inspect all the hotels we use to ensure that the service you receive is as close as possible to your expectations. Please check your hotel room when you first arrive (hot water, cleanliness etc.), as our rep will be available for a short time to help in case of any problems.

We will contact you with your arrival hotel details normally a couple of weeks before departure.

Check-in Times: Official hotel check-in times in Greece are between 14.00 and 15.00 and from 17.00 on our Greek Gulets. However, we do always try to ensure that if you arrive early, you can check into your room as soon as possible. We can nearly always get you into your hotel rooms by midday, but please understand that it is out of our control if the hotel is full and it takes a little longer. You will have full use of the hotel facilities while you wait if there is a short delay.

Greek Islands: The winter season on the Greek islands (November to March on Santorini, October to April on quieter islands) is very quiet, with many hotels closing completely. When necessary we therefore book alternatives that we feel provide a good experience suitable to the season. This generally means we aim more for smaller boutique style hotels and guesthouses that have a better location, being much closer to the shops and restaurants that are still open, rather than larger more properties further out that may have swimming pools and more space (which would not generally be used in winter anyway due to the cool weather, even were they to remain open).

Greek Gulets: Our Greek gulets generally carry up to 25 passengers, accommodated in 9 cabins (on our Mykonos Gulet, we use a larger vessel carrying up to 46 passengers. All cabins are ensuite, including comfortable mattresses, reading lights, a hair dryer, a wardrobe and an A/C device (on our Mykonos gulet, cabins have an electric fan rather than A/C). 

Shoestring tours:  On our shoestring tours hotel upgrade options may be available and due to the potential larger group sizes sometimes more than one hotel may be used in each location. This may mean that more than one hotel pick up and drop off is required at the start and end of each day. If necessary, these are timed so that the overall sightseeing time planned for the day is not affected.

Please check the Single Room Supplement option for details on room sharing options and charges for solo travellers on this tour.


  4. Transport

Our Greece tours use a mix of air conditioned minivans, minibuses and coaches depending on the size of the group.

Ferry journeys to the Greek islands are booked in advance and approximate timings are given in our tour itineraries or on request. These are subject to change however, and any tour that visits the islands is subject to adjustments and amendments based on the available ferry schedules. While it does not happen often, sometimes ferry schedules are changed without notice and ferries may also be cancelled completely due to poor weather conditions. In this event the program may need to be adjusted and you may end up spending more or less time in one location than originally planned. This is the nature of travel between the islands and we thank you for your patience and understanding in the rare event of this occurring.

Where internal flights are used these will be detailed in the itinerary and fares will be included in your tour price unless otherwise specificed.


  5. Transfers

Our onland tours in Greece include your arrival and departure airport-hotel transfers and all other transfers.
Airport transfers are not included on our Greek Gulet tours. 

On tours where transfers are included, airport transfers are only included on the first and last day of the set tour itinerary, plus on any additional days if you book your hotel room with us. If you make your own arrangements for additional accommodation at either the beginning or the end of the tour then you will need to arrange your own airport transfers on these days.


  6. International flights

We want to give you as much flexibility as possible when it comes to booking your holiday with us. So, to take account of people with varying travel plans, we don’t include your international flights in the main tour price. We are however very happy to suggest flights to go with the tour. Please contact us with your preferred dates and departure airport and we’ll give you a selection of airlines, times and fares to choose from.

Your airport arrival & departure transfers are included on the first and last days of the tour. Most of our Greece tours start and finish in Athens and are served by Athens international airport (ATH). Transfers from other airports, including on the Greek islands may also be included if your tour starts/finishes there - please check the tour inclusions/exclusions for details. 

We do also sometimes advertise flight inclusive packages from selected airports. Where these are shown on our website, prices are correct at the time of quoting, but are subject to continued availability of the fare used. Prices will be reconfirmed at the time of booking, and we will also provide the flight times and airline details before tickets are issued. 
Flight inclusive prices are based on the cheapest Economy ticket class available which is generally non-refundable and non-changeable unless the flight is cancelled for reasons such as Covid-19, in which case the airlines are more flexible. More flexible ticket options, as well as Premium Economy and Business Class tickets are available on request for an additional supplement. Any changes made to flight inclusive bookings will be subject to the airline rules on your ticket. 

Flight CO2 Emissions:

Traveling by air is an amazing way to explore the world, but flights also contribute to carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions that impact the environment. By considering the airline's CO2 emissions when you choose your flight, you can help minimize your travel footprint.

When selecting your international flights and airline, we do therefore recommend that you try and also take into account the flight CO2 emissions. Some airlines and flight search websites (eg. Google Flights, Skyscanner) do publish this information, so you can compare between your flight options and make an informed decision. Thankfully, many airlines are working towards sustainability efforts, and choosing a greener option allows you to contribute to positive change while still enjoying your incredible adventure.


  7. Entrance fees, Hotel fees & permits

Escorted tours and tailor-made trips generally always include site entry fees in the price - please check the Inclusions/Exclusions section for details.

However, our Greece Small group (including Greek Gulets) and Shoestring tour prices do not include entrance fees to the tourist sites mentioned in the itinerary. You will need to cover the cost of these as you go along. Current prices are shown below, though these are subject to change by the local authorities at any time.  A 50% discount is currently available on some fees during the winter months of November to March. Not all of the entrance fees below apply to all tours - please check your itinerary and the inclusions/exclusions section for a budget for your trip.

Athens - Acropolis - Summer EUR 20, Winter EUR 10
Athens - Acropolis Museum - Summer EUR 5, Winter EUR 5
Athens - Hadrian's Arch - Free
Athens - Panathenaic Stadium - Free
Athens - Parthenon - Free
Athens - Propylaea - Free
Athens - Temple of Athena Nike - Free 
Athens - Temple of Olympian Zeus - Free
Corinth Canal - Free
Delphi Ancient Site & Museum - Summer EUR 12, Winter EUR 6
Delphi - Temple of Apollo - Free
Delphi - Treasury of Athens - Free
Epidaurus Theatre - Summer EUR 12, Winter EUR 6
Mycenae - Tomb of Agamemnon - Summer EUR 12, Winter EUR 6
Nafplio - Palamidi Fortress - EUR 4
Olympia Ancient Site & Museum - Summer EUR 12, Winter EUR 6
Olympia - Temple of Zeus - Free
Meteora - 2 monasteries - Summer EUR 6, Winter EUR 6

Camera Fees: Photography may be restricted in various ways at different sites. Often flash photography is often forbidden to protect the exhibits and ancient pigments, and sometimes cameras are not allowed in at all. Please respect these rules as they are there partly for your benefit. Tickets are not generally required for normal cameras, but if you have a video camera, if its use is permitted there will sometimes be a charge.

Hotel Residence Fees: The Hellenic National Tourism Organization has announced that a residence fee will be applied on all hotel accommodation, starting from 1st January 2018. The fees must be paid by guests directly to the hotel before the end of their stay and are therefore not included in the tour price. Fees are per room per night (not per person) and have been set at EUR 1.50 for 3* hotels, EUR 3.00 for 4* hotels and EUR 4.00 for 5* hotels.


  8. Money

The currency in Greece is the Euro (EUR). 1 Euro = 100 Euro cents. Banknotes: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200. Euros Coins: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 Euro Cents and 1, 2. 
Credit Cards and Travellers Cheques are widely accepted in major cities and tourist resorts. ATMs are also accessible at all our destinations and generally offer the best exchange rate. A mixture of debit, credit cards and cash are the best forms of currency. You should split this up and keep some separately as a backup in case you lose your main money/cards.

It is difficult for us to specify the amount of money that you will spend per day, however, as a general rule EUR 25 to 50 per day can provide you with additional meals, tipping, snacks & drinks. Should you wish to purchase many souvenirs or other luxuries, of which there is a diverse range, you will have to budget for these.

Greek Sailing Tours:
Please note that there are no card payment facilities available onboard our Greek gulets, payments should be made onboard in Euro cash. Whilst many of the locations visited on our sailing trips do have ATM facilities, these cannot be guaranteed in all locations, particularly on smaller islands, therefore we always recommend having a supply of cash. 


  9. Tipping

Tipping is common practice in Greece, though not as extensive as in nearby Turkey. For basic restaurants, taxis and local markets, leave the loose change. For more up-market restaurants we suggest 5% to 10% of your bill. We include a 'tipping kitty' in your tour price which your tour guide/leader will use to tip a wide range of people along the way to help ensure the smooth running of the tour. This does not include your tour guide/leader, driver(s) or transfer staff though.

Drivers: You may have a range of private drivers on your trip. For those you see for at least several days and who are more involved with the group, a tip of around EUR 1-2 per person per day is generally appropriate.

Tour guide/tour leader: If you think you tour guide and/or tour leader has worked hard and provided a good service then s/he will appreciate a tip of a few Euros. How much you tip is subject to your satisfaction with their service and your personal budget. You should not feel pressured to tip any particular amount. As a guideline, we can suggest that for good service, a tip of EUR 3-5 per day for local tour guides or local tour leaders would be fine.


  10. Language - Greece

The Greek language is ancient and has a documented record which spans three and a half thousand years and has contributed much to all Western languages. As such it is a strong element of national continuity and pride.
You'll find you won't have much of a problem with the language barrierr as English is well communicated by many Greeks, especially in the Islands.

Below you will find some important phrases that will have you sounding like a Greek in no time!

Good afternoon / evening= Kalispera (kah-lees-PEH-rah)
Good night = Kalinikta (kah-lee-NEEK-tah)
Goodbye = kherete (KHE-reh-tay)
Hello = Yassou (YAH-sue)
How are you? = Ti kanis? (tee-KAH-nis)
Well / good = Poli kala (po-LEE kah-LAH)
Thank you = Efkharisto (eff-kah-rees-TOH)
You're welcome / please = Parakalo (pah-rah-kah-LOH)
Sorry = Signomi (seegh-NO-mee)
Yes = Ne (neh)
No = Ohi (OH-hee)
What's your name? = Pos se lene? (POHS seh LEH-neh)
My name is... = Me lene... (meh LEH-neh...)
Can you help me? = Borite na me? (boh-REE-teh nah)
What time is it? = Ti ora ine? (tee OH-rah EE-neh)
Where is...? = Pou ine? (POO EE-neh)
I want... = Thelo (THEH-loh)
How much is it? = Poso kani (poh-soh KAH-nee)
Left = Aristera (ah-rees-teh-RAH)
Right = Dexia (thek-see-AH)
Open = Aniktos (ah-neek-TOHS)
Closed = Klistos (klees-TOHS
Do you speak English? = Milas Anglika? (mee-LAHS Ang-lee-KAH?)
I don't understand = Den Katalaveno (then-kah-tah-lag-VEH-no)


  11. Health and Vaccinations

You should ensure you are fully insured for medical emergencies including emergency evacuation and repatriation. UK travellers visiting other European Union countries including Greece should also carry the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) as it entitles travellers to reduced cost, sometimes free, medical treatment in most European countries.

Recommended vaccinations and other health protection measures vary according to the country you are visiting and where you are travelling from. We recommend you contact your GP/medical practitioner or a travel clinic for current information on vaccinations needed for your destination.
You should ensure that you are up to date with vaccines and boosters recommended for your normal life at home, including for example, vaccines required for occupational risk of exposure, lifestyle risks and underlying medical conditions. No additional courses or boosters are normally recommended for Greece though you could conside Tetanus and Tick-borne Encephalitis.

More information is available here: Greece
Malaria map - there is low to no risk of malaria in Greece, none in tourist areas.
Yellow fever certificates are not required.


  12. Passports and Visas

Passports should be valid for at least six months after your departure from the country. Please do not bring an almost full or almost expired passport. Visa arrangements are the responsibility of the traveller, and requirements are subject to change by the local authorities.

Some foreign nationals require a visa to enter Greece, though many do not (including UK, EUR, US, CA, AU, NZ, SA). More information is available at visas for foreigners.


  13. Time
Greece Time is GMT plus 2 hours. Daylight saving adjustments of 1 hour are applied, starting at the end of March and finishing at the end of October. Exact dates vary from year to year.

  14. Voltage

Sockets are two round pronged and 220 volts (Type C). Universal adaptors are available in most airport shops if you don't have one already. Standard European adapters will work fine, though sometimes they may feel a little loose in the sockets. All hotel rooms have electrical sockets where you can re-charge cameras, phones etc. Hair dryers are normally available on request from the hotel reception if not in your room already.
If you have US appliances (110 volts) you will need a voltage converter as well as a plug adapter.


  15. What to take

Luggage: Suitcases, rucksacks or fabric holdalls are all fine to bring with you to Greece. You should also bring a small daypack/bag to take out during the day. Your main luggage will normally be left in the hotel during your sightseeing trips - you will not need to carry it far, and there are nearly always hotel porters to assist.

Luggage limits: There is no luggage limit for this tour. However, most airlines restrict you to between 20kg and 25kg for your hold luggage and between 5kg and 10kg for hand luggage. Please check with your airline before travelling to the airport.

Clothing: Greece's climate changes drastically, with cold winters and hot summers. In Greece from late March to May, spring brings with it average temperatures of around 15C, though the weather does gradually warm up with sunny days interspersed with rain showers. From May to the end of October, the climate is hot and sunny, getting cooler as the year progresses. By the end of October you can expect the first of the winter snows. So you must pack for cool and potentially wet conditions late in the year.

Other items: We also recommend you bring a sun hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, a basic first aid kit, toiletries, money belt, small torch, camera & charger.


  16. Dates & Prices

We run regular small-group departures on this trip between May and October, generally starting on a Saturday. All departures are guaranteed to run with a minimum of two people. Departure dates and prices are listed on our website and on a separate dates & prices sheet available on request.


  17. Booking & Payment

If you would like to book a place on this tour, please complete the online reservation form on our website (via the Dates & Prices tab on the tour page). You may make a deposit or full payment online, or just hold a reservation if you prefer (full payments are due 8 weeks before departure). We will then contact you with more details about how to complete your booking. Payments may be made by debit or credit card (subject to a card processing fee), or by making a bank transfer, or posting us a cheque/bank draft. Full details will be provided in your booking confirmation email. Please contact us if you would like any more information or have any questions before making a booking.


  18. Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is compulsory on all of our tours and needs to cover personal accident & liability, medical expenses and repatriation, travel delay & abandonment. We also strongly recommend that you take out cover against cancellation and lost/stolen baggage. Personal medical insurance does not normally provide sufficient cover and is generally not suitable for travel on our tours. You will not be able to join your tour if you have not provided us with details of your insurance or if you arrive without cover in place (no refunds will be due in this event). More information...

You may arrange your own insurance, or you can take advantage of a comprehensive policy that we can arrange for you through Endsleigh Insurance which has been designed to be suitable for our tours. The policy is available to travellers of all nationalities and you do not need to live in the UK  to take out the policy. For full details of cover provided, prices and to apply for one of our policies, please complete travel insurance application form.
Note: Any country that borders the Mediterranean is considered as 'Europe' for the purposes of travel insurance (including Turkey, Israel, Egypt and Morocco). If you are doing a tour that visits one country in 'Europe' and one that is 'Worldwide' (for example, an Egypt and Jordan tour), then you need a 'Worldwide' policy. When completing the form you should enter your travel dates including any extra days involved in overnight flights or connecting travel between your home and the tour. Our policies are not able to cover any extra time or activities other than your tour and options booked with us and your travel to & from home.

Note - to comply with insurance sales regulations, our travel insurance policies are only available to customers booking directly with us. If you have booked through a travel agent you will need to arrange your own insurance.

If your tour includes car hire, ior if you plan to arrange a hot air balloon flight locally or do some scuba diving during your tour, you should check the small print in your policy to make sure these are covered (these are covered in our policy). Please also check the maximum altitude that you will be reaching and that full cover including emergency evacuation is provided up to this altitude.

If you are taking expensive camera gear or other electronic equipment with you then please check the coverage and the fine print of your policy to ensure that you have sufficient cover.

IMPORTANT:  We must have your travel insurance details (policy number and type of insurance) before you depart or you may not be allowed to join the tour.  If you haven't told us already, please let us know the details when you can. You should take a paper copy of your insurance policy with you as you may be asked to show this at the start of the tour.

Covid-19
Before purchasing any travel insurance, please check the coverage provided for situations related to Covid-19, and for the rules about government travel advice. Your normal policy may not be suitable. Details about our own policies cover levels are given on our website


  19. Financial Security

We are a UK registered company and are committed to providing our customers with financial protection to provide peace of mind and to allow you to book with confidence.
We have therefore partnered with Trust My Travel Ltd., which provides financial protection services to over 2000 partners around the world. Funds paid to us by our customers are protected via an Insurance policy held by Trust My Travel. Each traveller and the description of services sold is declared against Trust My Travel’s insurance policy directly against our financial failure. In the event of our insolvency, you will be refunded for any unfulfilled products and/or repatriation to the UK (where applicable). Please see our website or booking conditions for more information.


  20. Responsible Tourism

It is impossible not to have an impact on the local environment, cultures and eco-systems when you travel. However, it is very possible to try and ensure that these impacts are as limited, or positive as possible. We are committed to ensuring that we try to leave our host countries in a better state than we found them and encourage and assist our travellers to help us with this.
The following are a few simple tips that require very little effort on your part but which will help ensure that any effect you have on the locations you visit is positive rather than negative.

  • Don't prejudge: Things in different countries will almost certainly be different. That doesn't make them worse or inferior, just different.
  • Communicate: Don't expect locals to speak your language. Take the trouble to learn a few words or phrases of the local language. Don't worry about sounding silly. Most locals are patient and accommodating and appreciate you making the effort to communicate in their language.
  • Conserve energy: Be careful not to waste valuable resources. Use local resources sparingly. Switch off lights, air-conditioning and fans when you leave the hotel room and don't waste water. Remove superfluous packaging. Many countries have far less efficient waste disposal systems than ours. Remove packaging from newly acquired items before leaving home.
  • Don't litter: No matter how untidy or dirty the country you're travelling in may look to you, avoid littering, as there is no need to add to the environment's stress. Many of the countries we visit have a tough challenge dealing with rubbish and waste. Please consider taking home as much plastic waste as you can (e.g. water bottles).
  • Choose environmentally friendly products: By using environmentally friendly (bio degradable) sun creams, shampoos and detergents you can help reduce pollution.
  • Respect local customs and traditions: As you are a guest in these countries, you should also comply with the local customs. If you are friendly and well mannered, the locals will reciprocate and it will only enhance your experience. It's important to follow dress and behaviour guidelines especially when visiting religious or sacred sites (your tour leader will advise you how best to do this).
  • If a client commits an illegal act the client may be excluded from the tour and Encounters Travel shall cease to have responsibility to/for them. No refund will be given for any unused services.

All porters are employed and equipped following guidelines set by the International Porter Protection Group (IPPG).


  21. Follow Us Online

You can stay in touch with us online by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We post updates on relevant travel news in our destination countries, special offers and discounts and other interesting travel related news and information.
www.facebook.com/encounterstravel
www.twitter.com/encounterstravl (yes, without the 'e')


  22. Before you travel

It is important when considering and preparing to travel anywhere in the world that you have a good understanding of the country you are visiting, its laws and customs, and the possible risks and situations that may occur. This includes specific risks related to your itinerary (eg. does it involve water & can you swim, are you fit enough for the activities included), as well as more general risks such as terrorism and natural disasters.

General details and links to more information about health risks, visa requirements, money, and travel insurance are given in these tour notes. We recommend that you re-read all these before your departure as well as the small print of your travel insurance policy so you know exactly what is covered and what is not.

You should take copies of your important travel documents with you and ideally also store them online securely as a backup. Make sure that you have given us your emergency contact details and told that person where and when you are travelling. Ensure you take enough money with you and that you have access to emergency funds.

Finally, you should read through and stay updated with the current official government travel advice for your destination. We are registered partners with the UK Foreign Office's 'Travel Aware' campaign which provides further useful and invaluable information.

'Travel Aware' campaign


  23. Reduce Plastic Waste with Water-to-Go Filter bottles

Traveling responsibly means minimizing plastic waste, but staying hydrated on the go is essential. At Encounters Travel we are committed to reducing single-use plastics, which is why we've partnered with Water-to-Go. Their portable filtration system removes over 99.9% of contaminants from any non-saltwater source, turning even questionable water sources into safe drinking water.

Given that tap water is un-safe to drink in many of the countries in which we operate, we recommend purchasing a Water-to-Go bottle prior to departure. This will help you avoid the use of single use plastic bottles and keep you hydrated on the go.

Save big! Get a huge 25% off your Water-to-Go bottle and other Water-to-Go products (such as filters, lids, and carriers). Use code ENCOUNTERS25 at checkout (valid in the UK, USA and Canada).

How Water-to-Go Technology works:

  • Their reusable, BPA free water bottles contain their own unique 3-in-1 filtration technology effectively providing clean safe drinking water from any non-salt water source around the world.
  • Three different (1 traditional and 2 nano) technologies are combined in one filter cartridge to remove up to 99.9999% of microbiological contaminants in water.

The three technologies used in a Water-to-Go filter are:

  • Mechanical filtration – A tiny pore size, so small contaminants can’t fit through.
  • Electrical – A positive charge reduces the pore size even further and attracts contaminants like a magnet, trapping them inside the filter.
  • Activated Carbon – Unlike most carbon based filters, instead of using adhesives to glue the carbon particles together, (which vastly reduces the carbon’s efficiency) it is contained within the membrane, helping to reduce contaminants whilst eliminating bad tastes and odours. Try filtering water from your tap at home and taste the difference!

Water-to-Go filter bottles deliver safe, healthy water worldwide

  • Water-to-Go filters remove bacteria, viruses, waterborne disease, protozoa, heavy metals such as lead as well as harmful chemicals.
  • Their filters remove Chlorine and Fluoride from tap water.
  • The filter will eliminate harmful contaminants from the water but allow beneficial minerals such as sodium and magnesium to pass through leaving you with the healthiest water possible.
  • Water-to-Go filters have been independently tested against internationally recognised standards by industry specialists including The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (UK), BCS Laboratories (USA), Bangalore Test House (India) and IMI (China).

Use Water-to-Go products and you’ll be healthier, wealthier and helping to make the world a better place!

  • Depending on filter size, each Water-to-Go filter is able to replace 260 or 400 single-use plastic water bottles!
  • They ensure you have access to safe water anywhere in the world without ever having to buy environmentally damaging bottled water.
  • Their water bottles deliver safe, clean drinking water at just 5p per litre.
  • The filter membrane is biodegradable and the shrouds are recyclable.
  • The water bottles are used and approved by everyone from backpackers to commuters, gym users to expecting mums. Perfect for everyday, outdoor and travel.

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