Cycling holiday Cyclades & Saronic Islands

Cyclades and Saronic islands

Discover the heart of Greece

Starting at € 2.790,-
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Summary
  • 8 Days Saturday to Saturday
  • 30 km average per day
  • Arrival Piraeus Athens Airport
  • Departure Piraeus Athens Airport
Highlights
  • Visit 6 Mediterranean islands
  • Historic island towns
  • Turquoise-blue sea
  • Fantastic sand beaches
Characteristics
  • Guided Tour
  • Group Tour
  • Bike & Barge
  • Cycling level 2

    On some days you will be cycling through a windy area; with distances to 50 kilometers per day.

Cycling on authentic Greek islands

Our Islandhopping trip Cyclades & Saronic Islands awaits you with great contrasts and lets you experience the diversity of Greece in an impressive way: The Cyclades Islands

The Cyclade Islands, comprising of more than 30 islands, were the cradle of the first European civilisation 5,000 years ago. Here we also see a truly authentic side of Greece: Gleaming white cube houses with blue shutters and labyrinthine alleyways that dominate the architectural character of the islands' villages and towns. Along the mostly ragged coastlines there are impressive geological formations, turquoise-blue sea and fantastic sand beaches.
Experience Greece from its greenest side on the Saronic Islands that lie between the Greek mainland and the Peleponnese. Learn about the Greek Liberation Struggle between 1821 and 1830 without which Greece would not be as we know it today. Experience the fascinating symbiosis of antiquity and modern times by Bike & Boat and delight in the authentic beauty of the Greek Aegean.

Daily Program

  • Day 1 Piraeus/Athens Embarkation

    Individual journey to Athens (Marina Zeas/Piraeus for Thalassa resp. Marina Alimos/Palaia Faliro for Erato). Check-in on the ship is possible from 2 pm onwards. Dinner on board and overnight stay in Athens.

  • Day 2 Kythnos Island, 25 km

    Early in the morning we sail to Kythnos Island, famous for its cheese and honey since the antiquity. We begin our first cycling tour in the harbour of Merichas and head towards the island’s capital, Chora. Along the way we can enjoy wonderful, scenic views of the coastline. Chora is a lovely town, situated on a high plateau. The town’s alleys are decorated with painted flowers and geometric patterns. We continue on to the picturesque village of Driopida before returning to Merichas, where we can spend the evening in one of the cosy tavernas.

  • Day 3 Seriphos Island - Syros Island, 30 km

    In the morning, we sail to Seriphos, a small island far off the beaten tourist track. The island is characterised by deep valleys, countless bays and coves, and beautiful sandy beaches. From Livadi we cycle along a serpentine road to the island’s main town of Seriphos, whose cube form houses, nestled into landscape, stretch along the mountain ridge high above the sea. From Seriphos, we continue on through untouched landscape to the Byzantine monastery of the Archangel Michael. We then return to Livadi along a panoramic road on the East coast. In the afternoon the ship takes us to Syros, where we can stroll through the breathtaking old town and round off the day in one of the numerous cafes on the spacious harbour promenade.

  • Day 4 Syros Island - Kea Island, 34 km

    The town of Ermoupolis on Syros is the capital town of the Cyclades and offers an unforgettable view upon arrival: The town, which is built on two hills, is different from the other Cycladic towns. Pastel coloured houses, many of which have classical facades, dominant the townscape. We cycle along the coast of Syros, which is full of bays and coves along the entire southern half of the island, to the beautiful beach of Galissas and then past the convent of Saint Barbara back to Ermoupolis. In the afternoon we continue by boat to the island of Kea.

  • Day 5 Kea Island, 25 km

    Our starting point for exploring the north western-most inhabited Cycladic island is the beautiful natural harbour of Korissia. From here we climb up to the island’s capital Ioulis before continuing on to the white sand Otzias Beach where we enjoy a refreshing swim stop. Afterwards we cycle back to Korissia, and then sail to Poros in the Saronic Gulf in the afternoon. The harbour town of Poros is truly spectacular with its iconic clock tower soaring above the rest of the town. Poros in the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing evening and get lost in the authentic Greek island atmosphere. 

  • Day 6 Poros Island, 23 km

    Today, we almost completely circle the entire island of Poros, which in ancient times was dedicated to the sea god, Poseidon. Shortly before the end of the tour we arrive at Russian Bay, a sandy beach with turquoise blue waters, the perfect place for a relaxing swim! Once back in Poros, we board the boat and enjoy a delicious midday meal as we cruise to Aegina. 

  • Day 7 Island Aegina, 35 km

    The island of Aegina is known far beyond the Greek borders for its incredible pistachio nuts! Today’s bike tour takes us up to the sanctuary of Aphaia, towering high above the azure blue of the sea. The incredibly well-preserved temple is located on the only point on the island where the Aegean Sea can be seen on both sides. On our way back to the boat, we cycle across the middle of the island past the monastery of Nektarios all the way to the town of Aegina. Here we board the boat for our last cruise back to Piraeus. The last evening on board concludes with a communal dinner and last get-together in a cosy atmosphere with crew, fellow travellers, and tour guides.

  • Day 8 Piraeus, Athens

    After breakfast check-out and individual return home or extended stay in Athens.

Cycling in Greece

Cyclades & Saronic Islands

E-Bike Level 1 / Hybrid Bike Level 2-3

Our cycle tours fit for both: hybrid and e-bikers. You have to decide beforehand, which bicycle you like to rent, if you decide to rent one. You are free to set aside a half or full day to swim or to spend time on board the boat, instead of taking a planned cycle tour.

Requirements for e-bikers (level 1): E-bike tours suitable for Islandhoppers with a good basic level of fitness. The tours and the elevation meters are very manageable with an e-bike (23-35 km and 350 - 700 elevation meters per day).

Requirements for hybrid bikers (level 2 -3): The bike routes vary in length between 23 - 35 km/14 - 22 mi. and 350 - 700 elevation meters per day and lead through hilly or mountainous terrain. There are some longer climbs; however, you are welcome to take breaks or push your bike if necessary. The roads are mostly asphalted. Your tour guide will inform you each day about the tour details. This tour is primarily a guided group tour however, upon consultation with your tour guides, it may be possible to cycle on your own along recommended, suitable routes. You are free to set aside a half or full day to swim or spend on board the boat, instead of taking a planned cycle tour.

Guided group pace: On our e-bike tour programs, the riding pace is determined by the cyclists on e-bikes. Guests who are taking part on these tours on a regular bicycle should have the necessary physical condition to keep up with this pace. Thank you for your understanding.

Requirement to wear a helmet
Helmet use is mandatory on all bike rides. It is advised to bring your own, well-fitted, helmet with you as our rental helmet numbers are limited (reservation required).

Aphaia | Temple Aegina
Poros
Kythnos Island
Seriphos
Kythnos square

Travel dates

Departure
End
Accommodation
Starting at
Availability
Departure
19 Apr 2024
End
26 Apr 2024
Accommodation
Thalassa
Starting at
€ 2.790
Availability
Available
Book
Departure
19 Apr 2024
End
26 Apr 2024
Accommodation
Erato
Starting at
€ 2.790
Availability
Fully booked
Departure
26 Apr 2024
End
03 May 2024
Accommodation
Thalassa
Starting at
€ 2.790
Availability
Fully booked
Departure
26 Apr 2024
End
03 May 2024
Accommodation
Erato
Starting at
€ 2.790
Availability
Fully booked
Departure
03 May 2024
End
10 May 2024
Accommodation
Thalassa
Starting at
€ 2.790
Availability
Fully booked
Departure
03 May 2024
End
10 May 2024
Accommodation
Erato
Starting at
€ 2.790
Availability
Available
Book
Departure
10 May 2024
End
17 May 2024
Accommodation
Thalassa
Starting at
€ 2.790
Availability
Fully booked
Departure
10 May 2024
End
17 May 2024
Accommodation
Erato
Starting at
€ 2.790
Availability
Fully booked
Departure
17 May 2024
End
24 May 2024
Accommodation
Thalassa
Starting at
€ 2.790
Availability
Fully booked
Departure
24 May 2024
End
31 May 2024
Accommodation
Thalassa
Starting at
€ 2.790
Availability
Fully booked
Departure
24 May 2024
End
31 May 2024
Accommodation
Erato
Starting at
€ 2.790
Availability
Limited
Book
Departure
31 May 2024
End
07 Jun 2024
Accommodation
Thalassa
Starting at
€ 2.790
Availability
Fully booked
Departure
07 Jun 2024
End
14 Jun 2024
Accommodation
Thalassa
Starting at
€ 2.790
Availability
Available
Book
Departure
07 Jun 2024
End
14 Jun 2024
Accommodation
Erato
Starting at
€ 2.790
Availability
Fully booked
Departure
14 Jun 2024
End
21 Jun 2024
Accommodation
Thalassa
Starting at
€ 2.790
Availability
Fully booked
Departure
14 Jun 2024
End
21 Jun 2024
Accommodation
Erato
Starting at
€ 2.790
Availability
Available
Book
Departure
21 Jun 2024
End
28 Jun 2024
Accommodation
Erato
Starting at
€ 2.790
Availability
Available
Book
Departure
21 Jun 2024
End
28 Jun 2024
Accommodation
Thalassa
Starting at
€ 2.790
Availability
Fully booked
Departure
23 Aug 2024
End
30 Aug 2024
Accommodation
Thalassa
Starting at
€ 2.790
Availability
Fully booked
Departure
30 Aug 2024
End
06 Sep 2024
Accommodation
Thalassa
Starting at
€ 2.790
Availability
Fully booked
Departure
06 Sep 2024
End
13 Sep 2024
Accommodation
Thalassa
Starting at
€ 2.790
Availability
Fully booked
Departure
06 Sep 2024
End
13 Sep 2024
Accommodation
Erato
Starting at
€ 2.790
Availability
Fully booked
Departure
13 Sep 2024
End
20 Sep 2024
Accommodation
Erato
Starting at
€ 2.790
Availability
Fully booked
Departure
20 Sep 2024
End
27 Sep 2024
Accommodation
Thalassa
Starting at
€ 2.790
Availability
Fully booked
Departure
20 Sep 2024
End
27 Sep 2024
Accommodation
Erato
Starting at
€ 2.790
Availability
Fully booked
Departure
27 Sep 2024
End
04 Oct 2024
Accommodation
Erato
Starting at
€ 2.790
Availability
Fully booked
Departure
27 Sep 2024
End
04 Oct 2024
Accommodation
Thalassa
Starting at
€ 2.790
Availability
Fully booked

What else do you need to know?

Prices are per person in 2024

Please note: in 2024 departure is on Friday

Supplements:
Reservation costs € 25,- per booking
Contribution Dutch Guarantee Fund € 5,- per person (Insolvency Protection)

Thalassa

All departures
Twin/ double cabin € 2.790,-
Cabin single use € 3.990,-

Erato

All departures
Twin/ double cabin € 2.990,-
Cabin single use: per request

Extra options:
Rental bike per week € 80,-
E-bike per week € 225,-
Bike insurance € 25,-

Collective group transfers (on embarkation and disembarkation days only):
between Athens airport and the boat respectively between a hotel at Athens city and the boat: Prices on request

Included

  • 8-day-trip on a comfort motor yacht with crew
  • 7 nights on board
  • 2 x full board and 5 x half board on board
  • Bottled water on board and during all activities ashore
  • Guided bicycle tours and sightseeing as described in the itinerary
  • Overview-maps for the daily bike tours (on board)
  • Bed linen & towels
  • Entrance fee to museums and archaeological sites (group visit only)
  • English speaking tour guide

Not Included

  • Reservation costs
  • Contribution Dutch Guarantee Funds (Insolvency Protection)
  • Bicycle rent, optional
  • Bicycle insurance (against theft and damage): € 25,- per bicycle (not insured: deliberate damages), optional
  • Journey to Greece
  • Beverages on board (tally sheet; to be paid to the captain)
  • Meals and beverages ashore
  • Entrance fee for sights not included in the tour price
  • Beach towel for ashore use (if needed)
  • Personal insurance

Special details

  • Please take good notice of our Terms & Conditions.
  • If you have special meal requirements we ask you to mention this when booking, but at the latest until 14 days before arrival. Diets which need a special preparation or special ingredients can only be offered in limited form. We will do our best  to meet your needs, but we also ask for your understanding as due to limited logistic possibilities on a barge we are not able to prepare complete specialized menus. In case of Celiac; gluten free diet; we request that you bring along your own basic foodstuffs such as bread and cereals for the duration of your tour with us, as it is extremely difficult to attain  these products from Greek vendors.
  • Minimum of 14 passengers 
  • Bringing private e-bikes is not permitted
  • The program is subject to change without notice.

How to get to Athens

A flight is the fastest, easiest and cheapest way to get to Greece. Piraeus, your port of embarkation is only 15 mi./25 km away from Athens Airport (named El. Venizelos Airport).

Please choose an outbound flight departing in the afternoon to ensure a stress-free journey home.

Transfers between Athens Airport and the Boat or an Hotel at Athens and the Boat

Fee-based collective transfers (only available on embarkation/disembarkation days):

– between Athens airport and the boat: € 40,- per person/way
– between a hotel at Athens city and the boat: € 25,- per person/way

Customized transfers are offered too: availability and prices on request.

How to make a transfer reservation

For all airport transfers a reservation is required. Please indicate your exact flight details. If there are belated changes of your flight times you are kindly requested to inform our office immediately.

You are kindly requested to send us the following details:

– arrival & departure date
– flight route
– airline
– flight number
– estimated arrival or departure time

For hotel transfers please indicate:

– exact hotel address
– preferred transfer time

The port of embarkation/disembarkation is the yacht harbour of Marina Zeas, which is part of Piraeus harbour. In general the Thalassa docks at the ”Pasa Limani” part of the marina. You are welcome to check in on board from 2pm onwards on the embarkation day.

For the duration of the tour we supply you with a waterproof pannier by Ortlieb, a practical way of carrying drinks, bathing gear, camera etc

By this tours you can rent the following bikes:
 

  • Rental bike Croatia & Greek 5 ft. and above

    Our hybrid bikes are equipped with 28 inch hollow chamber rims with puncture proof touring tires, derailleur gears and break systems, a carrier and a stand, touring saddle as well as mudguards and a pannier rack.

  • Rental bike Croatia & Greece 6 ft. and above

    Our hybrid bikes are equipped with 28 inch hollow chamber rims with puncture proof touring tires, derailleur gears and break systems, a carrier and a stand, touring saddle as well as mudguards and a pannier rack.

  • Rental E-bike Croatia & Greece

    An e-bike powered mainly by a Bosch motor capable of covering long distances. Standard components in varying frame sizes include, 28 inch rims with puncture proof tires, derailleur gears and break systems, a carrier and a stand, touring saddle as well as mudguards and a pannier rack. 

Catering

The on-board chef is a member of the crew and prepares the breakfast and one or two warm meals a day. The catering starts with the dinner on the arrival day and ends with the breakfast on the departure day. 
If you wish to eat vegetarian food or have distinctly different eating habits please inform us in time before your arrival. Please keep in mind that special food requirements cannot always be met in all details. If you have extensive food allergies we ask you to give us a list of the food that you can eat. This should be done before your arrival so that the cook can be instructed to plan and shop accordingly.
In the case of a glutenfree diet, we request that you bring along your own basic foodstuffs such as bread and cereals for the duration of your tour with us, as it is extremely difficult to attain these products from Greek vendors.
Please note that due to the small size of the kitchen and the available equipment on board, we cannot guarantee that your food will not come into contact with kitchen utensils in which gluten-containing foods have already been processed.
So if you have a serious celiac disease, where the food must not come into contact with utensils in which food containing gluten was prepared, then we would recommend not to participate in the trip as the risk of an allergic shock would be too high. If it is a (mild) gluten intolerance it is not a problem.

Language aboard

Due to our international audience all Islandhopping tours are conducted bilingually, in English and German.

Time zone

Please note that Greece is on Eastern European (Summer) time, i.e. GM(S)T + 2 hours.

Itinerary changes

The Cyclades are relatively susceptible to wind. Normally this results in only a minor modification of the tour route. However by strong wind conditions the travel route may markedly differ from the planned route. Our substitute tour leads you for the entire week into the Saronic Gulf, one of the most historic regions of Greece: We cross between the Greek mainland and the Peloponnesian and discover the islands of Aegina, Poros, Hydra, Spetses and the Methana peninsula. A highlight of this journey is a visit to the ancient Epidauros with the best preserved theatre in Greece.

Level 2 - 3
The bike routes vary in length between 23 - 35 km/14 - 22 mi. and 350 - 700 elevation meters per day and lead through hilly or mountainous terrain. There are some longer climbs; however, you are welcome to take breaks or push your bike if necessary. The roads are mostly asphalted. Your tour guide will inform you each day about the tour details. This tour is primarily a guided group tour however, upon consultation with your tour guides, it may be possible to cycle on your own along recommended, suitable routes. You are free to set aside a half or full day to swim or spend on board the boat, instead of taking a planned cycle tour.

Group riding pace 
On this cycling tour the cyclists on regular bicycles determine the pace. We ask guests who have reserved an e-bike to be mindful of this and to acknowledge that the regular cyclists need time to rest and take longer to climb the hills. We thank you for your understanding.

Internet availability
A free WiFi connection is available on your ship. On the open sea, reception cannot be guaranteed at all times. If you need stable Internet access during your voyage, we recommend that you take your laptop or tablet to a café or bar at the port. Free WiFi is offered almost everywhere. If you order something there, you can use the WiFi without restriction.

Bringing Children

We believe that only children with a good physical condition and previous bicycle tour experience and a minimum age of 10 are able to master the cycle tours with their own strength. Please note that the minimum height for a rental bike is 1.30 m (4.3 ft.) for hybrid bikes and 1.50 m (5 ft.) for e-bikes.

Our Ships

Please do not forget that the ship is your hotel as well as a machine, which has to be maintained and operated – day and night. A certain level of noise is therefore inevitable.

F.A.Q.

  • Which countries do the participants come from

    The main countries represented by our cycling guests are: United States and Canada. We also receive guests from United Kingdom, Germany, France, the Netherlands, Belgium, Australia and New Zealand. The common language on board is English.

  • What is the average age of the participants

    The average age varies between 50 and 80, but of course we have younger and older guests. In particular it is quite possible during the school holidays that children might be booked on your tour.

  • What happens when it rains?

    Most of the participants then wear rainwear. When the weather is so bad that cycling becomes really impossible (but that is almost never the case!), you can stay on board or your guide can organize an alternative program with, for example, cultural excursions and city tours (at your own expense).

  • Is WiFi available on board

    Yes, free WiFi is limited available in lounge and on deck.

  • How long are the daily cycling stages

    The average daily distance on our Bike & Barge tours in the Netherlands is 50 kilometers (32 miles). But don’t forget that Dutch countryside is very flat and the stages, taken at a leisurely pace, take seven to eight hours including a number of breaks and visits.The time spent on your bicycle is about 4 hours per day.
    You find the average daily distance on the tour page under 'Summary'.