Athens to Mykonos Island Hopping 7 Day Sailing Tour

Planning a Greek island adventure often involves a mix of ferry queues, crowded airports, and the challenge of fitting everything in. That’s why a 7-day sailing tour from Athens to Mykonos can be such a breath of fresh air. It offers a smooth, elegant way to see some of Greece’s most beautiful islands without the hustle of traditional travel. We’ve looked into this tour offered by Elysium Yachting, and here’s what you need to know before you decide if it fits your travel style.

What immediately caught our attention is how this tour blends the freedom of island hopping with the comfort and intimacy of sailing. You get to see Aegina, Poros, Hydra, Kythnos, Kea, and Syros—a lineup that promises a good mix of well-known classics and quieter spots. And the best part? It’s designed for those who want to experience Greece’s legendary waters without the chaos of flying or ferry lines.

One potential drawback is the price—at $2,146 per person, it’s on the higher end for a week-long trip. But when you consider that it includes transportation, accommodation on a sailboat, skipper charges, fuel, and marina fees, it can be a good value, especially for those seeking a hassle-free, curated experience. Keep in mind, your meals and drinks aren’t included, so you’ll want to budget for about €50 for the week.

This tour is best suited for travelers who value comfort, expert guidance, and a relaxed pace, rather than those on a tight budget or looking for a backpacker-style adventure. It’s ideal if you’re a bit more into the idea of sailing as part of your Greece trip and want a blend of sightseeing, leisure, and authentic island experiences.

Key Points

• Comfortable sailing experience with a knowledgeable skipper guiding the way
• Visits to several iconic Greek islands with curated options for exploring
• All-inclusive transportation and marina fees save you from surprise costs
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours before
• No meals included, so budgeting for food and drinks is necessary
• Suitable for travelers who enjoy relaxed, scenic journeys rather than intense sightseeing

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Athens to Mykonos Sailing Tour

This 7-day adventure offers a different approach to exploring Greece—more intimate and relaxed, with all the logistics handled for you. Starting in Athens, you’ll sail along some of Greece’s most renowned islands, soaking in the stunning coastlines, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant local cultures.

Starting in Athens

Your journey begins in Athens, the historic heart of Greece. While the tour doesn’t specify a particular meeting point beyond the email coordination two weeks prior, you can expect to be picked up or meet at a designated marina close to the city. This initial phase is about setting sail and leaving behind the city’s hustle, heading toward your first island destination.

Aegina: The First Stop

Your first island stop is Aegina, a favorite for its charming old town and pistachio orchards. Here, you’ll enjoy sailing into this scenic island and likely have time to explore the local streets, browse shops, or relax on the beach. We love the idea of easing into island life with a gentle introduction. Reviews suggest that the sailing portion is enjoyable, with “stunning views,” and the relaxed pace makes it easy to unwind.

Poros: A Quiet Escape

Next up is Poros, a small island known for lush pine forests and a quaint harbor. The sailing here offers a chance to breathe in fresh sea air and appreciate the Greek coastline from a different angle. Expect some free time for wandering, grabbing a coffee, or simply relaxing by the water.

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Hydra: The Cultural Gem

Hydra stands out as a highlight. This car-free island is famous for its preserved architecture and vibrant arts scene. You’ll love the chance to stroll its narrow streets, admire the old mansions, or sip a drink at a waterfront café. The reviews mention “excellent wine” and “delicious tapas,” which aligns with Hydra’s reputation for good food and relaxed elegance.

Kythnos and Kea: Hidden Treasures

From Kythnos to Kea, you’ll hop through islands that aren’t always on the typical tourist radar. These quieter spots let you experience authentic Greek island life without the crowds. Expect more scenic sailing and possibly some curated experiences, depending on your skipper’s plans.

Syros: The Cultural Crossroads

Your penultimate stop is Syros, known for its blend of Venetian and Cycladic architecture. It’s a lively island with a little more hustle, perfect for exploring local markets or relaxing in a seaside tavern. The authentic vibe here makes it a worthwhile stop.

Ending in Mykonos

Finally, your journey culminates in Mykonos, famed for its lively nightlife, stunning beaches, and iconic windmills. While some might find the island busy, it’s a perfect ending for those wanting to experience Greece’s iconic party and sunset scene. You’ll leave with a week’s worth of memories—beautiful views, new friends, and stories of sailing in the Aegean.

The Sailing Experience: What’s Included and What’s Not

The core of this tour is the transportation on a sailboat, with all the essentials taken care of—skipper charges, fuel, and marina fees. This means no stressful navigation or unexpected costs related to docking. The boat serves as your floating home, so you’ll sleep on board, which offers a cozy, intimate atmosphere.

It’s worth noting that meals and drinks are not included. You’ll need to buy your own at the marinas or islands, with a recommended budget of around €50 for the week. This gives you the flexibility to pick local tavernas, try regional wines, or pack your own snacks.

The tour is conducted in English, ensuring smooth communication, and is generally suitable for travelers up to 95 years old, though those with mobility issues should consider the physicality of boat life.

Booking and Cancellation

The flexibility here is a plus. You can reserve now and pay later, which is handy if your plans aren’t set in stone. Plus, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before, you can book with confidence.

The Value Proposition

At over two thousand dollars, this tour isn’t cheap, but it packs in quite a bit: seven days of sailing, multiple island visits, the expertise of a skilled skipper, and all logistical costs covered. For travelers who prefer a comfortable, curated experience rather than DIY travel or crowded ferries, this trip offers both peace of mind and scenic beauty.

Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, adding a layer of rich commentary and local insights that enhance the journey. The stunning views of Greece’s waters and islands are undoubtedly a highlight, and the curated experiences offered—such as wine tastings or scenic stops—can elevate the trip from just a cruise to a memorable adventure.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who enjoys sailing, relaxed travel, or exploring islands without the hassle of coordinating transports, this tour could be perfect. It’s also great if you want to avoid the crowds and experience Greece from the water, with a touch of luxury and expert guidance. However, if your budget is tight or you prefer independent travel, you might find this experience a bit pricey.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the description doesn’t specify age restrictions, the sailing nature and boat accommodations may suit families with older children comfortable with boat travel. Check with the provider if traveling with younger kids.

What is included in the price?
The tour covers transportation, accommodations on a sailboat, skipper charges, fuel, and marina fees. Meals and drinks are not included but can be purchased at the marinas for about €50 per week.

When do I need to book?
You can reserve now, with flexible payment options, and the tour’s starting times vary. Check availability to see specific dates.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the start for a full refund, making it a low-risk option to lock in your plans.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
It’s generally not designed for those over 95 years old or people with significant mobility challenges, given the boat life involved.

How many people are on the boat?
While the exact group size isn’t specified, tours like this typically feature small groups for a more intimate experience.

Final Thoughts

This Athens to Mykonos sailing tour offers a relaxed yet immersive way to experience Greece’s most scenic islands. Its combination of expert guidance, all-inclusive logistics, and stunning routes makes it a compelling choice for those who favor comfort and authentic island vistas over hectic sightseeing.

If you’re looking for a week of peaceful sailing, beautiful landscapes, and curated experiences, this tour covers all the bases. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate the charm of Greek islands from the deck of a boat, with the added benefit of skipping the busy ferry stations and airports.

However, be prepared for the price tag, and remember that meals and drinks are extras. If this sounds like your kind of trip—whether you’re a seasoned sailor or just eager to see Greece from the water—this 7-day tour could be a memorable, smooth way to check off some of Greece’s most coveted islands.

You can check availability for your dates here: