5-Day Crewed Charter "The Discovery" - Lagoon 42 catamaran

This experience made our article of What Are The Best Tours & Experiences In Antiparos? Our Top 10 Picks.

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Experience the Beauty of Greece’s Cyclades on a 5-Day Crewed Catamaran

Traveling through Greece’s Cyclades by boat offers a way to see these iconic islands from an entirely different perspective. This 5-day crewed charter on the Lagoon 42 catamaran promises a blend of luxury, adventure, and authentic island life—all while cruising comfortably through some of Greece’s most beloved spots. While we haven’t personally sailed this route, based on detailed reviews and the itinerary, it’s clear this experience caters well to those craving scenic beauty, relaxed pace, and a touch of opulence at sea.

What we love about this cruise: the chance to drift between islands like Santorini, Koufonissi, and Ios with minimal hassle, the attentive crew that keeps everything smooth, and the stunning views that make every moment Instagram-worthy. A potential consideration? The group size is limited to six guests, so you’ll want to book early for the best dates. This trip suits travelers who love intimate adventures, fabulous scenery, and a bit of luxurious pampering.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Luxury in a compact group: Only up to 6 guests on a Lagoon 42, ensuring personalized service.
Island hopping: Visit Santorini, Koufonissi, Paros, Antiparos, and Ios—each offering unique landscapes and atmospheres.
Included amenities: Daily breakfast, some meals, linens, and transport are covered, making it a fuss-free experience.
Authentic island experiences: Swim in crystal waters, enjoy serene sunsets, and explore small villages.
Flexibility and convenience: Private transfers, a dedicated crew, and flexible cancellation policy offer peace of mind.
Price point: Around $10,700 for the entire group, which can be a good deal for a bespoke week in the Cyclades.

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The Itinerary in Detail

Embarking at Vlychada Marina and Santorini’s Caldera

Your adventure begins with a private transfer to Vlychada Marina—a peaceful and less touristy spot on Santorini. The start of the cruise is a highlight; sailing through the famous caldera offers some of the most breathtaking views in Greece. From here, you’ll cruise towards Koufonissi, an island often described as a hidden gem with natural beauty and tranquility.

Koufonissi: The First Night

Spending your first night here allows you to soak in the peaceful atmosphere of this less-developed island. Guests mention the “incredible beauty” of Koufonissi, which is perfect for swimming, lounging, or simply enjoying the sunset. The reviews highlight that the vessel’s crew makes you feel comfortable immediately, with well-prepared meals and attentive service.

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The Vibrant Charm of Paros

Moving on to Paros, this is a must-see ‘sea’ spot according to many reviews. Known for its lively villages and stunning beaches, Paros offers a lively contrast to Koufonissi’s serenity. Here, you might explore charming streets or relax on the beach before another night on board. The crew reportedly keeps everything seamless, and the daily meals keep guests well-fed.

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Antiparos: A Quiet Escape

The third stop, Antiparos, is described as a “white canvas with dashes of blue and green.” It’s the perfect place to unwind. The reviews praise the peaceful, idyllic ambiance, noting how this small island feels like a private retreat. You’ll enjoy the simple pleasures of coastal walks and swimming in calm waters.

Ios and Manganari Beach: A Famous Favorite

On day four, the cruise takes you to Ios, renowned for its vibrant nightlife and stunning beaches. Manganari Beach, often called the most beautiful of the island, gets special mention. Reviewers mention swimming in crystal-blue waters, reminiscent of scenes from “The Big Blue,” and enjoying spectacular landscapes. Spending the night here means more opportunity to relax and take in the scenery without rushing.

Return to Santorini

The final day sees the yacht sailing back to Santorini. After disembarking, your driver will be ready to take you to your next destination. The route offers a perfect blend of island exploration, scenic sailing, and downtime, all within a five-day window.

What It’s Like Onboard

The Lagoon 42 is a luxury vessel designed for comfort, with three guest cabins, three heads (toilets), and space for six passengers. The crew, including a skipper and a deck hand, are described as passionate and attentive. Guests often mention how the crew’s professionalism and warmth make the trip special, ensuring all needs are taken care of—from meal prep to navigation.

Meals and Comfort

Included in the package are daily breakfasts and one additional meal, which could be either lunch or dinner. Many reviews mention the quality of food and the effort staff put into making meals enjoyable, often highlighting fresh ingredients and regional flavors. Linen and bedding are also provided, adding to the feeling of being pampered.

Transportation and Transfers

From the start, your transfer from a designated point to the marina is organized, making the arrival smooth. It’s worth noting that if your hotel isn’t accessible by the transfer vehicle, you’ll be advised on a meet-up point. The return transfer is also included, simplifying logistics.

Pricing and Value

At around $10,700 for the entire group, this experience offers a comprehensive way to explore the Cyclades without the hassle of booking multiple hotels and ferries. The price includes transportation, the crew, meals, linens, and expenses such as fuel and mooring fees (covered by the APA deposit).

Compared to private yacht rentals or guided boat tours, this package presents good value—especially when factoring in the convenience of a crew and all meals included. For travelers seeking an authentic, relaxed, and intimate Greek island experience, this costs less than many luxury hotel stays combined with individual boat rentals.

Additional Costs

Off-board activities are not included, so if you want to explore on land or try specific adventures, those will be extra. The APA deposit helps cover fuel and mooring fees, and guests report transparency in accounting. A €1,000 security deposit is required before embarkation, refundable upon no damage.

Practical Details and Tips

What to Bring

Guests are advised to pack essentials like a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes. The weather in Greece can be hot, especially during summer, so lightweight clothing is a smart choice.

Accessibility & Suitability

This experience is not suitable for wheelchair users, and it’s best suited for those comfortable with small group travel and spending days on a boat. The itinerary’s flexibility might be affected by weather, so travelers should be prepared for possible route changes.

Cancellation & Flexibility

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which provides some peace of mind in uncertain times. Booking in advance is recommended due to the limited spots.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day crewed Lagoon 42 cruise offers an outstanding way to see the Cyclades in style. It’s perfect for those who want intimate, luxurious island hopping with a dedicated crew handling all logistics. From Santorini’s caldera views to the quiet beauty of Antiparos and the vibrant beaches of Ios, it combines scenic sailing with authentic island experiences.

Travellers who enjoy comfort, good food, and stunning vistas will find this cruise a memorable escape. The small group size lends itself to a cozy, personalized adventure, making it ideal for couples, friends, or small families seeking a unique holiday in Greece.

While it’s a bit of an investment, the convenience, comfort, and sheer beauty delivered make it worth considering for anyone wanting a premium, hassle-free Greek island experience.

FAQ

How many people can the Lagoon 42 accommodate?
The vessel has three cabins and is designed for up to six guests, making it a cozy, intimate experience.

What is included in the price?
The package covers transportation, a skipper and deck hand, daily breakfast, one additional meal, linens, bedding, and expenses like fuel, taxes, and mooring fees (covered by the APA deposit).

Are all meals included?
Yes, breakfast daily and one other meal (either lunch or dinner) are included. Off-board activities and extra meals are paid separately.

What islands will I visit?
You’ll sail around Santorini, Koufonissi, Paros, Antiparos, and Ios, each offering unique scenery and atmospheres.

Is transportation from my hotel included?
Yes, if your hotel is accessible by the transfer vehicle, a pickup is included. Otherwise, you’ll be given a meeting point close to your accommodation.

Can I cancel or reschedule easily?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour date, allowing flexible planning.

What should I pack?
Bring items like a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes suitable for warm weather.

Is this experience suitable for children or special needs?
It’s best suited for able-bodied travelers comfortable with boat travel; it is not wheelchair-friendly.

What if the weather is bad?
The company reserves the right to modify the route or cancel due to weather conditions, ensuring safety is prioritized.

How is the crew?
Guests often mention the crew as passionate and attentive, making the journey as comfortable as possible with good food, safety, and hospitality.

If you’re after a memorable, scenic, and luxurious way to explore Greece’s famous islands, this crewed Lagoon 42 cruise offers solid value, stunning views, and personalized service. It’s a wonderful choice for those wanting to enjoy the Cyclades at a relaxed pace—sailing past iconic landscapes and dipping into crystal waters.