Mykonos to Athens Island Hopping 7 Days

Traveling through Greece’s iconic islands by sailboat sounds like a dream, but how do you know if a tour like this offers true value? We’ve researched the Mykonos to Athens Island Hopping 7 Days experience offered by Elysium Yachting, and here’s a detailed look at what you can expect from this curated sailing adventure.

This journey promises a mix of breathtaking scenery, personalized itineraries, and authentic local flavor, all wrapped in the comfort of a well-equipped sailboat guided by experienced skippers. We’ll highlight the highlights, potential considerations, and all the details you’ll need to decide if this voyage matches your travel style.

What we love about this tour? The expertise of the crew, the flexibility to tailor the route, and the chance to explore a handful of Greece’s most famous islands all in one trip. One caveat? The price point might seem steep for some travelers, but considering the inclusions and unique experience, it is quite competitive.

This tour is perfect for those seeking an adventurous yet comfortable way to see Greece, especially if you love sailing, small-group intimacy, and authentic island encounters.

Key Points

• Expert Skippers: The tour is led by highly experienced skippers, ensuring safety and local insight.
• Flexible Itinerary: Your route can be tailored based on weather and preferences, offering a personalized experience.
• All-Inclusive Aspects: Costs cover transportation, accommodation, fuel, and marina fees—food and drinks are separate.
• Authentic Local Dining: Most dinners are enjoyed ashore at recommended eateries, supporting local businesses.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to ten participants, fostering a more intimate, relaxed atmosphere.
• Potential for Change: Weather can influence the route, but your skipper will adapt to ensure a smooth journey.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting with Mykonos: The Perfect Launchpad

The tour kicks off in Mykonos, famous for its lively atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and iconic windmills. As your departure point, it offers a vibrant backdrop before you set sail. The initial sail offers a chance to get familiar with your vessel and meet your fellow travelers, often a small group of like-minded explorers.

Guests have mentioned that the proximity to the Tourlos Yacht Marina makes for an easy start, with most reviews noting the smooth check-in process. Expect some anticipation as you prepare for a week of island-hopping, with the sailboat ready to take you on a new adventure.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look at Each Stop

Syros

The first major stop after leaving Mykonos is Syros, an underrated gem blending traditional Cycladic charm with a vibrant cultural scene. Here, you’ll find lively tavernas, historic architecture, and a relaxed pace. Reviews highlight the warm welcome from local hosts and the chance to explore quaint villages like Ermoupoli, the island’s capital.

Kythnos

Next is Kythnos, known for its tranquil beaches and thermal springs. As one reviewer noted, the island’s unspoiled nature and traditional vibe make it a perfect place to unwind. Expect opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, or wandering through quiet villages. The flexibility of the itinerary means you might have extra time to enjoy the peaceful surroundings or hop ashore for a meal.

More Great Tours Nearby

Kea

Kea offers rugged landscapes, scenic hiking trails, and picturesque harbors. Many travelers appreciate the chance to explore the island’s natural beauty and historical sites. A common highlight is the local tavernas serving fresh seafood, with guides often recommending the best spots ashore.

Hydra

Known for its car-free streets and artistic ambiance, Hydra is often singled out as a favorite stop. Guests frequently comment on the charm of wandering through stone alleyways, discovering hidden cafes, and enjoying stunning sunset views. The boat anchoring in Hydra allows for a relaxing evening ashore—be sure to ask your skipper about the best local eateries.

Poros and Aegina

Both islands are classic Greek getaways, offering a mix of history, scenic views, and local flavor. Poros’s lush hills contrast with Aegina’s famous pistachios and ancient sites. These stops give travelers a taste of authentic Greece, away from the busier tourist spots.

Athens

Your journey concludes in Athens, a city packed with history and culture. The sail-in provides a spectacular perspective of the Acropolis and city skyline. After disembarking, many reviews note the convenience of ending at a familiar central location, making onward travel straightforward.

The Onboard Experience: Comfort and Customization

One standout feature is the ability to customize the sailing experience. Your skipper will help craft the route based on your preferences and current weather conditions, which can sometimes mean minor route adjustments. This flexibility ensures each trip is unique and tailored to your group.

Food and drinks are managed separately, with a recommendable budget of about EUR 50 per person to cover groceries for breakfasts, lunches, and some dinners. The crew assists in creating a collective food fund, and there’s onboard cold storage for perishables. This setup encourages a communal, DIY culinary experience—think picnic-style lunches and sharing homemade breakfasts, with most dinners enjoyed ashore at local tavernas.

Guests have commented positively on this setup, appreciating the chance to cook together, share meals, and enjoy authentic Greek cuisine without the expense of all-inclusive dining. Most reviews recommend bringing long shelf-life foods and some snacks for the voyage.

The Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Pricing and Value

At $2,146 per person for a 7-day tour, it might seem like a splurge, but when you consider what’s included—transportation, accommodation on a sailboat, fuel, marina fees, and skipper charges—it’s quite competitive. Plus, the chance to sail between these islands in a small group with expert guidance offers a level of intimacy and flexibility hard to match with standard tours or ferries.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Limited to 10 participants, the small group size fosters a laid-back, friendly vibe. Many travelers mention that this intimacy allowed for better conversations, personalized tips from the skipper, and a relaxed atmosphere throughout the trip.

Duration and Schedule

The 7-day schedule offers enough time to savor each island without feeling rushed. The start and end points are clearly defined—opposite the Tourlos Yacht Marina in Mykonos and in central Athens. Check availability for specific starting times, as they may vary.

Weather and Route Changes

Weather plays a significant role in sailing adventures. Your skipper is experienced in adjusting plans to ensure safety and enjoyment. This means your itinerary might shift slightly—sometimes an extra day in a favorite spot or a different island if conditions demand.

Authentic and Local Experiences: What Sets This Apart

Unlike crowded ferry routes or generic tours, this sailing experience emphasizes authenticity. Your guides are knowledgeable about local eateries and sights, and the small group allows for genuine interactions. Guests have appreciated the personalized recommendations and the chance to explore islands at their own pace.

The experience also fosters a sense of community—sharing meals, stories, and sunsets with new friends is a recurring highlight. Plus, the ability to choose your dining spots ashore supports local businesses and offers a more genuine taste of Greek life.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip suits travelers who value personalized, authentic experiences over large-group bus tours. It’s ideal for sailing enthusiasts, or those willing to try a hands-on approach to their Greek holiday. Since it’s limited to small groups, it’s perfect for couples, friends, or solo travelers looking for companionship.

It may not be suitable for travelers over 95 years old or those looking for a fully all-inclusive resort-like experience. The focus is on adventure, flexibility, and local immersion.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For travelers craving an active, intimate way to explore Greece’s stunning islands, this sailing tour offers fantastic value. You’ll enjoy expert guidance, the freedom to customize your route, and the chance to see Greece from a perspective few get—on a sailboat, gliding between islands with the wind in your hair.

While the price is higher than ferry tickets, the added comfort, safety, and personalized service justify the expense. The small group size and knowledgeable skippers turn a standard island-hopping trip into a memorable adventure, perfect for those who love a mix of adventure, authenticity, and a touch of luxury.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers who want more than just a passive sightseeing experience—those eager to participate, explore, and truly connect with Greece’s islands.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
The fee covers transportation on a sailboat, accommodation on the boat, skipper charges, fuel, and marina fees. Food and drinks are not included but can be purchased separately with a suggested budget of about EUR 50 per person for the week.

How flexible is the itinerary?
The route can be tailored based on weather conditions and guest preferences. Your skipper will help adjust plans to ensure the trip suits everyone’s interests.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins opposite the Tourlos Yacht Marina in Mykonos and concludes back in central Athens. The exact start time depends on availability.

Is the group size small?
Yes, limited to 10 people, which encourages a relaxed, friendly atmosphere and personalized attention.

What should I bring?
Bring long shelf-life foods, snacks, and personal items suitable for sailing. Most dinners are enjoyed ashore, so comfortable walking shoes and casual attire are recommended.

Can I bring alcohol onboard?
The tour encourages a communal food fund for meals, and you can bring your preferred drinks to enjoy during the trip.

Are the skippers experienced?
Absolutely. The tour is led by highly experienced skippers known for their safety, local knowledge, and friendly approach.

What about weather disruptions?
Weather can influence the route, but your skipper will adapt plans to ensure safety and enjoyment.

Is this suitable for families or older travelers?
It’s best suited for active adults and those comfortable with small boat travel. It’s not recommended for travelers over 95 years old or those seeking a purely passive holiday.

In summary, this Mykonos to Athens Island Hopping tour combines the best of Greece’s scenery, culture, and sailing adventure into one well-organized package. For those who love authentic experiences, small-group travel, and the thrill of the open sea, it’s a compelling choice.

You can check availability for your dates here: