Greek Easter Sailing - Small Ship Cruise
Celebrate Greek Easter, Greece’s most cherished tradition, in an unforgettable way aboard our Jewels of the Cyclades Cruise, departing April 30, 2027. Sail around the stunning Cycladic islands, where each region brings unique Easter customs, vibrant celebrations, and local charm. From the sacred atmosphere of Good Friday in Poros to the Resurrection celebrations in Folegandros, Santorini’s festive Easter Sunday traditions, and the vibrant island life of Mykonos and Syros, this journey blends Greek heritage and living traditions, island beauty, and unforgettable moments at sea.
Highlights
• Holy Saturday in Folegandros Island - A hidden gem that proves that small is beautiful, Folegandros charms with its rugged landscapes, relaxed rhythm, and authentic Cycladic character. Its main town, Chora, sits on a cliff edge, with whitewashed alleys, elegant church facades, and traditional tavernas offering stunning views. A highlight of the journey is Holy Saturday in Chora, when the island gathers at the Church of Panagia for the midnight Resurrection celebration. At “Christos Anesti,” candlelight, ringing bells, and a powerful sense of tradition create an unforgettable atmosphere.
• Greek Easter Celebrations - Experience the Greek Easter Traditions. From the solemn Epitaphios procession on Good Friday to the joyful midnight Resurrection celebrations, every moment offers an authentic glimpse into Greece’s rich cultural heritage.
• Deck BBQ & Swim-stop in Poliegos island - A paradise on earth awaits. Poliegos is the biggest uninhabited island in the Mediterranean and a veritable ecological haven. It provides shelter to rare species of flora and fauna while its gorgeous beaches and its exotic bays attract yacht owners from all over the world.
Join us at Marina Zea in Athens for a welcome drink and meet your crew and fellow passengers. We then set sail for Poros, arriving just in time for dinner. Today offers a chance to experience Greece’s Good Friday traditions. Locals decorate the Epitaphios, the symbolic bier of Christ, with flowers, before it is carried in a solemn evening procession through the streets during the Service of Lamentation, honouring Christ’s death — a moving and unforgettable sight. Enjoy an evening walk ashore in Poros, before we continue our overnight journey to Poliegos. Overnight at sea.
Wake up in Poliegos, an uninhabited island known for its stunning beaches and turquoise waters. The hardest decision of the day will be whether to dive straight into the sea or enjoy a relaxed breakfast on deck. We recommend you do both. A morning swim stop is followed by a BBQ on board as we continue sailing. In the afternoon, we head to Folegandros, one of the Aegean’s most beautiful and lesser-known island. Explore Chora, the island’s picturesque main town, with its whitewashed alleys and the Venetian castle perched above the sea. In the evening, experience the moving Easter celebrations at the church of Chora. On Easter Sunday night at midnight, the priest proclaims “Christos Anesti” (“Christ is Risen”) and the Resurrection flame is shared from person to person. The atmosphere is deeply spiritual, with church bells ringing continuously and boats in the harbour sounding their horns in celebration. Overnight in Folegandros.
Santorini calling. We’ll arrive early with plenty of time to explore the capital, Fira, as well as the smaller village of Oia with its blue-domed views over the caldera. This is the place to get those Instagram shots. On board, our Hotel Manager and Chef will be grilling lamb to mark this special day. Enjoy a lively Easter celebration all morning long with Greek music, traditional snacks, and local wine. As evening falls, enjoy the world-famous Santorini sunset with sundowners on deck. Overnight in Santorini (on anchor).
Today we’ll sail to Paros, with a quick stop in a beautiful bay on neighboring Antiparos. Yes, you’re welcome to dive in. In Paros, explore both the port city of Parikia, and Naoussa - a quaint, and incredibly photogenic village in the north. In the evening you will have time to enjoy your dinner in a tavern overlooking the sunset. Overnight in Paros.
Before waving ahoy to Mykonos, we’ll stop for a few hours at sacred Delos. The island is an archaeological site, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Join us on a guided tour before we sail to the cosmopolitan island of Mykonos. Here, the night is yours. Join the jet-set and vibe at the hottest bars and restaurants. Overnight in Mykonos - in case you don’t want to leave the party early!
Wake up and refresh with a morning dip in the sea then all aboard for the trip to Syros, the capital of the Cyclades. Here you can relax, rest, and rejuvenate on the beach, or you can take part in our optional tour and explore the town and its unique architecture. Overnight in Syros.
We begin our journey back to Athens, with a last opportunity to jump into the inviting sea at Kolones Bay, Kythnos. Dry off as we sail towards Cape Sounion to view the Temple of Poseidon from the sundeck. On arrival back at Marina Zea, enjoy a Captain's Farewell Dinner before bedding down for one more night on board.
Breakfast and disembarkation will take place between 8:30 and 9:00 a.m. But this is not goodbye — only farewell for now. We hope you enjoyed the Easter celebrations and that your fellow cabin mates have become friends you’ll keep in touch. As for us, we look forward to welcoming you aboard one of our cruises again soon.
Itineraries are subject to change.
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Category C
Category B
Category A
Vessel Type: Motor Yacht
Length: 47 metres
Passenger Capacity: 49 (in 24 cabins)
Built / Refurbished: 1992 / 2016 /2025
Galileo is a 157-foot classic motor sailer built to SOLAS standards, designed to deliver a slow, unforced pace through the Greek islands. The ship’s profile, wood-panelled interiors, broad decks, and white sails produce a traditional yachting atmosphere, while panoramic indoor and outdoor spaces keep sea and landscape in constant view. A lounge, bar, and warm dining room create a calm social core, and two generous exterior decks provide shade, open air, and uninterrupted horizons. Capacity is limited to 49 guests across 24 ocean-view cabins, supported by an experienced crew focused on comfort and consistency.
Cabins follow a simple, functional layout with portholes on the Lower Deck and large portholes on the Upper Deck. All categories include individually controlled air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, safes, internal telephones, central music, hairdryers, and en-suite bathrooms. Public spaces are structured around single-seating dining, indoor and outdoor lounges, and a sun deck with loungers for extended time outside. Kayaks, snorkelling gear, a small library, and beach towels extend utility ashore and at anchor, supporting an unhurried small-ship circuit through Greece.
Special Offers
Special offers and exclusive discounted fares may be available, even if they are not displayed on our website. Contact our expedition experts to receive the best available price for your chosen cruise.
Inclusions
• Voyage on board in selected cabin category with private bathroom and air conditioning
• Tea, Filter coffee and drinking water available on board
• Half-board OR Full Board: including a Welcome Cocktail and Captain’s Dinner (destinational & ship dependant )
• English speaking cruise escort
• Use of fishing and snorkeling equipment (Masks, Fins and Snorkels), and Beach Towels
• Kayaks, Water Toys and Stand-Up Paddle Boards (subject to availability)
Exclusions
• Such personal expenses as drinks (other than included in the rate)
• Laundry
• Spa
• Boutique items
• Gratuities (gratuities are optional but as a rule, satisfied clients are expected to give to the captain, at the end of the cruise, approximately Euro 13-15 per person per day for distribution among all crew members)
• Medical expenses
• Port taxes
• Shore excursions (shore excursions are proposed and arranged on board by the tour leaders)
• Use of the on board Wi-Fi (available at a charge)
• Expenditures incurred ashore
• Anything not mentioned in cruise program.
Yacht
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