Sail the Aegean Sea on this 8-day cruise aboard the Elysium. Journey from the vibrant energy of Mykonos to Turkey’s coastal town of Kusadasi and the ancient site of Ephesus. Explore Delos, birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, Patmos, where Saint John wrote the Book of Revelation, and Samos, home of Pythagoras. Walk cobblestone streets, swim in clear waters, and relax on pristine beaches. Sample traditional cuisine, discover local boutiques, and experience authentic island life. Enjoy evenings in Greece’s lively nightlife venues or quiet harbors. This itinerary combines historic landmarks, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and cultural immersion with opportunities for leisure, swimming, and dining.
Highlights
Explore Delos historic ruins at Apollo’s mythical birthplace
Wander Mykonos lively alleys with chic shops and sunset bars
Visit Kusadasi ancient Ephesus and its well-preserved monuments
Swim Paros secluded bay with crystal-clear turquoise waters
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
Board at Lavrion Port between 14:30–15:30 and enjoy a welcome drink during check-in. Sail toward Delos with dinner served en route, arriving late evening. Overnight at anchor.
Wake to the allure of Delos, the mythical birthplace of Apollo and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its remarkable archaeological treasures and timeless atmosphere before a midday sailing to Mykonos. Enjoy lunch onboard, then spend the afternoon discovering the island at leisure. Stroll Chora’s whitewashed lanes, shop at chic boutiques, pause at inviting cafes, dine in fine restaurants, admire Little Venice at sunset, or photograph the iconic windmills. As evening falls, experience the island’s lively nightlife before a late departure for Kusadasi. Overnight at sea.
Arrive in the morning at Kusadasi, one of Turkey’s most popular coastal destinations, famed for its turquoise beaches, ancient landmarks, and vibrant bazaar. Spend the day exploring at your leisure or join a guided excursion to the remarkable Ancient City of Ephesus, one of the world’s best-preserved archaeological sites. Return to the ship for dinner before setting sail in the late afternoon for nearby Samos, where you can disembark to enjoy the island’s charm before spending the night at port.
Awaken to the serene beauty of Samos, one of Greece’s lushest and most storied islands, once home to Pythagoras, the famed mathematician, and Aristarchos, the pioneering astronomer of 520 BC. Rich in history and surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, Samos invites you to explore its cultural treasures and charming villages, whether on a guided island tour or at your own pace. In the late afternoon, set sail for the sacred island of Patmos, pausing for a refreshing swim along the way, weather permitting, and arriving in time to explore its evening charms.
This morning, explore the sacred island of Patmos, where St. John the Baptist is said to have written the Book of Revelation. Wander at your own pace or join an optional shore excursion to visit the island's most important spiritual landmarks, including the Monastery of St. John and the Cave of the Apocalypse. Return to the ship to enjoy a delicious lunch onboard while taking in the serene views of the island. Later, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Skala, the bustling port town of Patmos. Its charming squares and lively streets are dotted with shops, traditional tavernas, and inviting cafes, making it a delightful spot to relax and experience the island's local culture. Overnight at port and depart early in the morning for Paros.
Begin your day with a refreshing swim in a secluded bay, surrounded by crystal-clear waters and tranquil beauty, before continuing to the port of the stunning island of Paros, famed for its blend of natural charm and cosmopolitan spirit. Explore its picturesque villages, relax on pristine beaches, or browse its chic boutiques before enjoying lunch onboard. As evening falls, experience the island’s lively nightlife, from waterfront cocktails to vibrant bars, before returning to the ship for an overnight stay at port, leaving you ample time to savor the magic of Paros.
You arrive in the morning at the enchanting island of Sifnos, celebrated for its iconic white-washed architecture, scenic hiking trails, and vibrant culinary scene. Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, the island offers something for everyone. Embark on one of the renowned "Sifnos Trails" to fully immerse yourself in the island's natural beauty, or join an optional excursion to explore the medieval castle and the iconic Church of Seven Martyrs, Sifnos's most photographed landmark. Wander through Apollonia, the picturesque capital named after Apollo, the God of Light. Discover its charming alleys, boutique shops, and inviting cafes, each reflecting the island's authentic charm. As the day draws to a close, return to the Elysium for a special farewell cocktail and dinner onboard. Raise a toast to the unforgettable memories made on this journey as you set sail back to Athens.
Day 8: Lavrion | Disembark
1 Breakfast
After a final breakfast onboard, disembark at Lavrion port before 10:00, taking with you the memories of an unforgettable journey at sea.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$3,4052-3 travelers
Rates displayed are based on the current exchange rate from the Euro, and therefore may fluctuate.
Cat C
Portholes, 12-14 sq m. Lower deck twin/double beds with plush mattresses, all-season duvets, pillows & flat-screen TV w/ movie channels.
Cat B
Portholes, 14 sq m. Lower deck twin/double beds with plush mattresses, all-season duvets, pillows & flat-screen TV w/ movie channels.
Cat B+
Portholes, 15-17 sq m. Lower deck twin/double beds with plush mattresses, all-season duvets, pillows & flat-screen TV w/ movie channels.
Cat A
Windows, 15-17 sq m. Upper deck twin/double beds with plush mattresses, all-season duvets, pillows & flat-screen TV w/ movie channels.
Cat A+
Windows, 17-20 sq m. Upper deck twin/double beds with plush mattresses, all-season duvets, pillows & flat-screen TV w/ movie channels.
Notes
A new cruise passenger fee will come into effect for cruise ships calling Greek ports on July 21, 2025, following a Joint Ministerial Decision signed by the Greek Ministers of Finance, Shipping, and Tourism. The fee varies by season to encourage off-peak travel.
Peak season (June 1 – September 30):
–Santorini & Mykonos: 20 Euros
– All other ports: 5 Euros
Shoulder season (April 1 – May 31 & October 1 – 31):
– Santorini & Mykonos: 12 Euros
– All other ports: 3 Euros
Low season (November 1 – March 31):
– Santorini & Mykonos: 4 Euros
– All other ports: 1 Euro
The fee is collected at the point of disembarkation onboard the vessel and is not subject to VAT. The fee is applied per passenger and per port. For the 2025 Summer season, the new port charges will be charged on passengers' onboard accounts for all passengers on a cruise with Elixir Cruises from July 18, 2025, onwards.
The trip might have been the absolute best of our lifetime (thus far). We particularly want to commend our guide Peter in the Guilin area-he was so incredibly attentive, energetic, enthusiastic-and absolutely dedicated to ensuring that our meals were 100% vegetarian.
