Authentic Greece. Northern Cyclades Small Ship Cruise
Travel from Athens through the Northern Cyclades aboard Running on Waves on an eight-day journey focused on Greek history, culture, art and geography.
The route connects Kea, Syros, Delos, Mykonos, Amorgos, Naxos and Kythnos, combining celebrated archaeological landmarks with islands that preserve a quieter and more traditional side of the Cyclades. Guests move between ancient sanctuaries, neoclassical towns, mountain monasteries, Venetian quarters, thermal springs and clear-water bays.
The Authentic Greece programme places additional emphasis on the stories behind each destination. Port talks introduce the history, mythology, architecture and geography of the islands before guests explore them ashore, connecting the landscapes of modern Greece with the ancient cultures that continue to influence it.
Between destinations, guests can swim directly from the ship, snorkel, kayak, windsurf or use the water slide. The onboard programme may also include sail handling, knot-tying workshops, mast climbing, master classes and evening entertainment, depending on the weather and sailing schedule.
Full-board dining, spacious outdoor decks, Jacuzzi and a limited number of guests create a relaxed base for the journey. This cruise is suited to travellers who want to experience the Cyclades through archaeology, local traditions, island landscapes and life aboard a tall ship, rather than moving only between the region’s best-known resorts.
Highlights
• Explore the history and mythology of the Cyclades – Visit the sacred island of Delos, discover the ancient landmarks of Kea and Naxos, and learn about Greek history, mythology and geography through onboard talks and guided shore experiences.
• Discover traditional island culture and architecture – Explore Syros’ neoclassical elegance, Mykonos’ historic streets and Amorgos’ dramatic mountain scenery, including the spectacular Hozoviotissa Monastery.
• Enjoy authentic island experiences aboard a tall ship – Visit Kythnos for its thermal springs, pottery traditions and beautiful Kolona Bay, while enjoying opportunities for swimming, snorkelling, kayaking and sailing activities between destinations.
Afternoon
Arrive in Athens and make your way to Piraeus to board Running on Waves. After settling into your cabin, meet the crew and the other guests joining the voyage.
Guests arriving earlier can begin their exploration of Greek history with a visit to the Acropolis, the ancient heart of Athens. Walk among landmarks such as the Parthenon and look across the modern city from the hill that became one of the defining symbols of classical Greece.
Evening
The voyage begins with a welcome and safety briefing, followed by the first dinner on board.
The crew introduces the route and the Authentic Greece programme, explaining how the port talks and cultural activities will accompany the island visits throughout the week.
Running on Waves leaves Athens and begins its passage towards Kea.
Morning
Wake as Running on Waves approaches Kea, also known as Tzia. Its landscape differs from the stereotypical dry Cycladic scenery, with valleys, springs and areas of oak woodland spread across the island.
After breakfast, go ashore to discover Kea’s natural and archaeological landmarks.
Day
Explore Ioulida, the island’s hilltop capital, where stone lanes wind between traditional houses and small squares. Guests can walk through the town or experience its narrow streets by donkey, following a long-standing local form of transport.
Continue towards the Lion of Kea, an ancient stone sculpture resting beside one of the island’s historic paths. Other highlights include the Royal Oak Forest, the ruins of Ancient Karthea and the island’s numerous freshwater springs.
Kea’s surrounding waters are also associated with several internationally known shipwrecks, adding another layer to the island’s maritime history.
Evening
Return to Running on Waves for dinner and time on deck.
The ship leaves Kea and continues deeper into the Cyclades towards Syros.
Morning
Wake in the heart of the Aegean as Running on Waves approaches Syros, the administrative capital of the Cyclades.
After breakfast, go ashore to explore an island where Cycladic and Venetian influences meet in the same landscape.
Day
Begin in Ermoupoli, a harbour town distinguished by neoclassical mansions, marble squares and monumental public buildings. Walk through Miaouli Square, explore the streets around the waterfront and continue towards the elegant Vaporia district.
Higher above the harbour lies Ano Syros, a medieval settlement of narrow lanes, stairways and Catholic churches. From here, the view extends across Ermoupoli and the surrounding Aegean.
The day reveals a side of the Cyclades that feels more urban and architecturally layered than the familiar whitewashed island villages.
Evening
Return to the ship for dinner or spend part of the evening ashore, exploring the harbour after sunset.
Running on Waves later continues towards Delos and Mykonos.
Morning
Begin the day near Delos, one of the most important archaeological sanctuaries of the ancient Greek world.
According to mythology, the island was the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. Today, temples, marketplaces, theatres, private houses and surviving mosaics form an extensive archaeological landscape with no modern town built over it.
Day
Go ashore to explore the ancient sanctuary and walk through the remains of a city that once attracted pilgrims and merchants from across the Mediterranean.
Day
After leaving Delos, Running on Waves continues to nearby Mykonos.
Explore Chora’s whitewashed lanes, the windmills, Little Venice and the Church of Panagia Paraportiani. The afternoon offers a sharp contrast with the stillness of Delos, replacing ancient ruins with lively streets, boutiques, cafés and waterfront terraces.
Evening
Spend the evening discovering Mykonos independently or return to the ship for dinner and a quieter night on deck.
Running on Waves departs for the longer passage towards Amorgos.
Morning
Wake near Amorgos, a quiet and mountainous island known for its minimalist Cycladic architecture, dramatic coast and strong connection with the surrounding landscape.
After breakfast, prepare for one of the most active days of the journey.
Day
Explore Chora, where white houses, windmills and small churches are arranged beneath a Venetian castle.
Guests looking for a more challenging route can follow the path to the 11th-century Monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa, built directly into the face of a steep cliff above the Aegean. The approach involves a demanding climb, rewarded by wide views of the sea and the monastery’s extraordinary setting.
Amorgos is also known for mysterious caves, rocky walking trails and secluded beaches. Depending on the programme and conditions, there may be time for swimming or exploring part of the coastline from the water.
Evening
Return to Running on Waves for dinner and a slower evening after the day’s walking.
The ship leaves Amorgos and continues towards Naxos.
Morning
Wake near Naxos, the largest island in the Cyclades.
Breakfast is served on board before a day exploring an island that combines long beaches and fertile countryside with mountain villages, ancient monuments and a historic harbour town.
Day
Go ashore in Naxos Town, also known as Chora. Walk along the waterfront and continue through the old streets towards the Venetian castle district.
Near the harbour stands the Portara, the monumental marble gateway of an unfinished ancient temple dedicated to Apollo. Its position on a small islet makes it one of the island’s most recognisable landmarks.
Optional exploration may continue inland towards traditional villages, ancient marble statues or producers of local cheese, olive oil, wine and the citrus liqueur known as kitron.
Guests preferring time near the sea can visit one of the island’s beaches or return to the ship for swimming and watersports.
Evening
Return to Running on Waves for dinner.
Spend the evening looking back towards the lights of Chora before the ship continues west towards Kythnos.
Morning
The final full day begins near Kythnos, an island known for its simple villages, extensive coastline and long traditions connected with pottery and thermal water.
After breakfast, go ashore or remain near one of the island’s sheltered bays, depending on the day’s programme.
Day
Discover Loutra, associated with Greece’s first thermal spa, where naturally warm springs emerge close to the sea.
Kythnos is also home to one of the Aegean’s rare open-air Mesolithic settlements and preserves a long-standing pottery-making tradition. Guests can explore its villages, stone lanes and small workshops while learning more about everyday island life beyond the major Cycladic destinations.
There may also be time for swimming near Kolona Beach, a narrow strip of sand separating two bays. Kayaks, snorkelling equipment and other watersports can be used when conditions allow.
Evening
Return to Running on Waves for the farewell dinner.
Spend the final evening on deck as the ship leaves Kythnos and begins its last passage towards Athens.
Morning
Running on Waves arrives in Piraeus.
Enjoy a final breakfast on board before saying goodbye to the crew and the guests who have shared the journey.
Disembarkation marks the end of the cruise. Guests staying in Athens can continue exploring the Acropolis, the Ancient Agora, the museums and the historic neighbourhoods of the city.
Itineraries are subject to change.
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Additional charges:
Port Taxes: $395 USD
Vessel Type: Three-Mast Sailing Vessel, Barquentine
Length: 64 metres
Passenger Capacity: 42
Running on Waves is a majestic three-mast barquentine and one of the world’s largest sailing yachts, offering a rare blend of authentic sailing adventure and five-star luxury. At 64 metres in length and carrying just 42 guests, she delivers a truly exclusive yachting experience. With her sleek silhouette and full sail performance reaching up to 17 knots, she brings the romance of the sea to life while maintaining ultra-low emissions. Guests are treated to personalised service from a dedicated crew of 21, ensuring every detail is handled with care and elegance. Her small size allows access to hidden harbours and intimate marinas that larger vessels simply cannot reach.
Life on board is designed for indulgence and discovery. From sunbathing on the spacious Sun Deck to sipping cocktails at the Ocean Bar or relaxing in the Jacuzzi Pool at the bow, every space invites relaxation. Cabins feature refined nautical interiors, marble-finished bathrooms, and modern comforts such as air conditioning, satellite TV, and underwater camera feeds. Whether you’re dining on Mediterranean cuisine, unwinding in the massage lounge, or watching the horizon from the observation point above the bowsprit, Running on Waves is more than a voyage—it’s a celebration of freedom, beauty, and the art of slow travel.
Special Offer on Northern Cyclades Cruise
30% off the cabin fare if booked more than 9 months prior to departure date of your chosen cruise;
20% off the cabin fare if booked 9 to 6 months prior to departure date of your chosen cruise;
10% off the cabin fare if booked 6 to 3 months prior to departure date of your chosen cruise.
Prices online do not show the discounted rates. Terms and conditions apply. This special offer is subject to availability. Please contact us for more details.
Inclusions
• Full board
• Complimentary coffee, tea, still water and crackers available at the bar counter throughout the day
• Kayaks, windsurf boards, fins and masks for snorkeling
• Entertainment on board: sailing practices, yoga classes, karaoke
• SAT TV in the cabins
• Jacuzzi, Internet
Exclusions
• Cocktails, alcohol and soft drinks in the bar
• Diving equipment rental, diving instructor services, and underwater group tours
• Water skis, wakeboards etc.
• Instructors for windsurfing and diving
• Bus excursions with invited guide
• Laundry services
• Air tickets, transfer and visa cost
• Service charge (tips) is € 14 per guest per day (on guests’ decision)
• Port fees
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