Day 1: Santorini - Ios

Marina Santorini will be the first stop on this route. First, prepare the yacht for the cruise, familiarize yourself with the equipment, and discuss important details with the manager. After everything is accomplished, you’ll have time left to take a walk and explore Santorini.


Of all the Greek island resorts, the prize for most romantic definitely goes to Santorini. The name is commonly understood to refer to all five islands of this small archipelago: Thira, Therasia, Palaia Kameni, Nea Kameni, and Aspronisis, shaped in a ring and rising from volcanic origins.

Santorini’s unusual history resulted in some dazzling natural attractions: beaches with black sand, turquoise seas, cliff-side grottos, and exquisitely beautiful sunsets. The backdrop of such a stunning landscape helps to underscore the snow-white houses and blue church cupolas. This color combination has become Santorini’s calling card and now adorns hundreds of advertising photos.

The island’s largest population centers are Thera, Oia, Phoenicia, Athenos, and Kamari. Some are frequented for the chance to enjoy the view of the caldera and volcano, while others for their proximity to the beaches. In Thera, an almost mandatory point on the itinerary is a visit to the church of St. Mina.

The best beaches are considered to be Monolitos, Kamari, and Perissa. In the summer there’s no shortage of vacationers, so it’s better to head for some seclusion at Columbo beach in the eponymous cape.


Of all of the islands in the Cyclades, Ios is the most popular among young people. The dawn of its glory started in the 1970s, when the island became a favourite haunt for hippies. Today, you can find clubs here to suit any taste – especially in Hore, Ios’ main city. Party-lovers have also invaded the bay of Milopotas. If raving until dawn isn’t part of your plans, the beaches of Agia Theodoti, Calamas, Colizani, and Manganari are at your service.

Paradoxically, the best way of exploring Ios in another light is to walk around Hore during the day. Old churches, the ruins of a Venetian fortress, classical white houses with a bounty of colors bursting in the garden, and a labyrinth of streets show you a completely different Ios, more tranquil and quiet. In Colizani, you can stop by the museum of modern art. In Agia, see Theodoti – a Hellenistic tower and the ruins of an ancient aqueduct. And in Plakotos , you’ll find Homer’s grave.