Why Choose the Peloponnese Explorer Flotilla?
Our new for 2018 Peloponnese Explorer Flotilla is a unique opportunity to sail the entire coast of the Peloponnese peninsula in the company of like-minded explorers.
Hosted by an experienced lead crew, this wondrous 580 nautical mile journey is a true Greek Island Odyssey, circumnavigating the Peloponnese. Our epic voyage includes: 2 of the ancient world’s most notable sanctuaries at Olympia & Delphi, 2 historic monasteries, 5 kilometres of spectacular caves, The sites of the major sea battles of Navarino and Lepanto, sailing around Calypso Deep (at 5,267 metres, the deepest recorded point in the Mediterranean). This route features 20 amazing destinations plus the “bucket list” transit of the spectacular Corinth canal.
Week One
Arrival & check in, and a chance to explore the tavernas tucked away in the back streets of the town.
A great first stop – Vathi is the capital of Ithaca, and enjoys a protected location at the end of the stunning bay.
A longer voyage today, which should be downwind and a
pleasant sail. Historic Messolonghi is different to everywhere else we will visit. The lagoon is home to diverse bird life which includes pelicans, as well as seals and turtles. The characteristic stilted fishermen’s houses could easily be in Vietnam or Thailand. The town is where Lord Byron left his last breath during the Greek war of independence and he is honoured with a notable small museum.
We sail under the Rion Bridge, one of the world’s longest, joining the Peloponese to the mainland. En route we also pass historic Nafpaktos, site of the historic naval battle of Lepanto. Then island of Trizonia, an undiscovered gem, home to a few fishermen and holiday homes, plus the obligatory and most authentic fish tavernas.
A truly delightful old Seafaring town, noted for its’ listed ‘Kapetanospitta’ or court yarded Captain’s houses, many of which have been lovingly restored. We organise an optional visit by road to the famous Ancient Oracle of Delphi 40 minutes away.
We overnight in this historic town, before transiting the spectacular Corinth Canal, A long term project conceived and commenced in classical times and finally completed in 1888. These days it is too small for modern super tankers and mega ships, though still enjoying regular shipping and yachting traffic.
A true sailing town with its listed neoclassical houses and lively sea front with a great choice of tavernas – We organise a traditional Greek Easter feast ashore.
Week Two
En route be sure to sail close to spectacular Hydra, for some great photography. Ermioni is a charming traditional fishing village popular with Greek tourists seeking the authentic.
We are really getting off the beaten track now and Kiparissi is a charming remote fishing hamlet where the locals will appreciate our visit and extend a warm welcome.
The truly atmospheric fortified medieval town is linked to the mainland by a causeway and has been well preserved . The ‘Rock of Monemvasia’ has been the landmark of this safe haven since antiquity, also regarded as the birthplace of Aphrodite, according to Homer.
An ‘aristocratic’ island with fine Seafaring traditions, well off the regular tourist trail and something of a secret amongst those ‘in the know’. Well worth the visit.
An easier day today and a chance to linger off one of the best beaches in the Mediterranean at Elaphonissos, the small fishing village ashore has an authentic charm.
We are in the renowned ‘Mani Peninsular’ dramatic
mountainous terrain, punctuated by the characteristic traditional fortified stone tower houses and locals proud of their traditions, never having been subdued by any invader. From here we organise a visit to the spectacular Dirou caves.
Kalamata, a candidate for the European city of culture for 2021, is the regional capital, and quite chic and sophisticated. A sheltered harbour with good shopping and facilities ashore.
Week Three
The beach resort of Finikounda is on our way, Methoni the second historic Venetian outpost and important staging post on the ancient trading routes from
Venice to the east. The village is dominated by an imposing castle
We visit the offshore island of Sapientza with its famous Venetian lighthouse before continuing to the historic town of Pylos, in the scenic and sheltered Navarino bay, site of the famous naval battle of the same name of 1827, when the joint fleets of Britain, France and Russia destroyed the Ottoman fleet. In the afternoon, an optional visit by motor boat to the spectacular bay and beach of Voidokilia.
Today a true adventure as we voyage to the desert islands of Strofades, steeped in legend and history. There is an medieval monastery, previously looked after by a solitary monk, who sadly died in 2014.
A proper marina with good facilities (something of a rarity in these parts) and a pleasant resort town and cruise port. The big attraction here is nearby Olympia, home of the Olympic Games of antiquity. We organise a visit by train.
S outhernmost of the ‘Eptanissa’ or 7 islands group of the Ionian and a delightful holiday island, blessed with superb beaches and pleasant capital. Of note is
the Church Of St Dionysios, housing the relics of this revered patron saint of the island.
Back towards home we go, and a stop in our Kefalonia base and a chance for a meal together in one of our favourite tavernas.
A Final sail north to the south of Lefkas, and our main home in the Ionian, Sivota is a great natural harbour and a lovely sheltered end to our amazing journey, a chance to rest, with over 500 nautical miles under our belts.
Cabin Charter
For those travelling alone or not wishing to skipper a yacht, as well as those furthering their experience with mile building trips, you can book by the cabin on our 52 foot yacht with professional skipper and first mate. If you can’t find the time for the whole trip, the cabin charter option is available for 1 or 2 weeks.
Price for the full 3 week trip, including port charges, breakfast, light lunch and the services of our professional crew is £1,995 per person.
Meet your Crew
Together Giannis and Achilles are responsible for the safety and organisation of the Peloponnese Explorer flotilla. They are responsible for ensuring that you have a fantastic, safe, sailing holiday. Giannis skippered this route in 2018, and we are hoping he will return to lead this flotilla for spring 2019.
The Weather
Prevailing winds are from the north-west in the Ionian Sea, and from the north in the Argolic and Saronic Gulfs. When sailing the gulfs of Corinth and Patras, the winds are generally from the west. We will be sailing at a changeable time of the year, and as such wet weather gear is recommended, as some good sailing weather is virtually guaranteed!
The Yachts
Prices
Peloponnese Explorer Flotilla
2019 prices (per yacht)| Start Date | End Date | Yacht | Three Week Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7th April 2019 | 28th April 2019 | Bavaria 37 -2007 | £3,595 |
| 7th April 2019 | 28th April 2019 | Bavaria 37 - 2014, 15 & 17 | £3,995 |
| 7th April 2019 | 28th April 2019 | Oceanis 40 - 2008 | £4,395 |
| 7th April 2019 | 28th April 2019 | Bavaria 41 - 2015 | £4,795 |
| 7th April 2019 | 28th April 2019 | Bavaria 46 - 2016 | £5,335 |
| 7th April 2019 | 28th April 2019 | Bavaria 50 - 2008 | £5,495 |
| 7th April 2019 | 28th April 2019 | Cabin Charter | £1,995 per person* |
| *based on 2 sharing a cabin |
Book your flights with us to ensure full ATOL protection for your holiday.
Flights – Easyjet from London Gatwick to Preveza.
Transfers – Preveza to Lefkas town quay, £40 per person return. Transfer time approximately 30 minutes. Return transfer from Sivota harbour to Preveza airport in approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes.
Yacht Security Deposit
Returnable Deposit:
- Yachts 36 ft to 40 ft – £1500
- Yachts 41 ft to 45 ft – £2000
- Yachts 46 ft and over – £2500
Non-Returnable Yacht Damage Waiver:
- Yachts 36 ft to 40 ft – 3 weeks £360
- Yachts 41 ft to 45 ft – 3 weeks £500
- Yachts 46 ft and over – 3 weeks £600
Extras
- Skipper £995 per week
- Hostess £700 per week
