Greek family-owned and based in Athens, Variety Cruises, the world’s largest small ships cruise line, has created a new 8-day itinerary for 2022 that will take a small group of guests around some of the most beautiful unexplored Greek islands.
With a focus on boutique travel and off-the-beaten-track itineraries, this unique Unexplored Greek Islands cruise is designed to allow guests to discover unknown gems with rich history, incomparable light, translucent water, and heavenly beaches.
From the 1st of July through to the 16th of September 2022, Variety Cruises’ Callisto ship will set sail for ten stunning Greek island destinations. Departing from the port of Piraeus in Athens, it will head straight to Cape Sounion, for sunset cocktails and a welcome dinner under the ancient Greek temple of Poseidon.
“This cruise offers a more nourishing side of Greece, a taste of true Greek culture. These are places where people take pride in offering hospitality – in line with the ancient custom of filoxenia, love of strangers – and where things are done with meraki, love and soul. A cruise voyage unraveling the most authentic Cycladic and Dodecanese islands of Greece,” says the team at Variety Cruises, who are there to help each guest experience a great getaway that caters to personal taste and preferences.
With only 34 guests on board, the intimate cruise ship then arrives at the island of Ikaria, one of the world’s famous Blue Zones. Once the ship docks, guests are guided as to where they can explore authentic villages, hikes in wild landscapes, or a dip in one of the eight natural thermal springs. For something less adventurous, they can take part in cooking classes or have a coffee with some of the friendly locals.
Each day travellers are able to discover a new port of call, a hidden cove with crystal blue waters, a glimpse of ancient history, a rich cultural diversity; with the next stop being the tranquil island of Patmos, home of the Grotto and Monastery of Saint John the Apocalypse. In the afternoon there is another stop off at the hidden island of Lipsi, before finishing the tour of the Dodecanese in Kalymnos– a destination filled with fresh flavours, rich cuisine and history.
With plenty of time for independent exploration, there are many opportunities to jump off the vessel’s platform straight into the Mediterranean Sea for a swim, snorkel or a kayak in a secluded beach or cove. This is especially magical as the ship sails towards the famous Cyclades, where guests are whisked off to private bays that can only be reached by small ships. Guests will be able to experience the authentic beauty of Amorgos, before a stop off at Koufonisia and Iraklia– which feature the most stunning waters.
Serifos island is the last destination on this trip, highlighting the Cyclades’ brilliant light, and steadfast traditions. Enjoy one last swim at one of the island’s remote beaches before heading for the final stop at the port of Piraeus.
About “Callisto”
Callisto has 16 experienced crew on board, hosting 34 guests. The modern ship boasts classic lines and comfortable lounges, as well as spacious dining areas, a library and two decks for sunbathing, shaded areas and outdoor bar and loungers. Guests are able to enjoy 360° views of the unobstructed ocean and can mingle with others in public areas, or enjoy a moment to yourself in the ample deck space, before retreating to one of the 17 ocean views cabins- all offering windows or portholes.