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Peregrine Travel Centre

The Cyclades, in the Wake of Le Ponant

The Cyclades, in the Wake of Le Ponant

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Description

“Eternity. It is the sea mingled with the sun”, according to a poem by Rimbaud. Whether you are a lover of the sea or a curious traveller, experience once again the indescribable joy of navigating under sail, bathed by the wind and sea spray, surrounded by the elements. Take your place aboard Le Ponant, a majestic three-mast yacht with elegant lines and an interior design created by the Jean-Philippe Nuel studio to be a warm and intimate setting with a very distinctive personality. As if you were on your very own yacht, match your inner tempo to the boat’s subtle oscillations and savour the freedom of living in the moment, being fully present for your trip. Find out more about Le Ponant, here.

Aboard its emblematic yacht, PONANT is reshaping the contours of cruising and invites you to experience a new way of discovering the wonderful Mediterranean shores, between olive groves and sun-drenched vines. From unique and iconic ports of call to private moments, experience the very essence of the Mediterranean and welcome the unexpected like a breath of freedom.

From the port of Lavrio, located very close to beautiful Athens, you will set sail in the direction of the Cyclades, these small heavenly islets scattered around the Aegean Sea.

Off the beaten path, from exclusive paradises to emblematic landscapes, your journey takes shape, following the rhythm of the wind and the secret havens. Drink in the pure moments of sailing, cleaving through the foam, as you set off to explore intimate coves and hillside villages.

Carried by the wind, you will head towards Tinos, one of the Greek archipelago’s most preserved islands. The serene atmosphere of this spiritual centre infuses its sumptuous scenery. The white rocks of Polyaigos soften the jagged coasts of this uninhabited island, a natural sanctuary bathed by the crystal-clear and turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea.

In Folegandros, the scents of thyme and marjoram fill the air with sunny perfume, and the picturesque white houses, their shutters enhanced by blue, are spread along the maze of small streets paved with chora.

You will leave the Cyclades and head towards the south-east of the Peloponnese. The fortified peninsula of Monemvasia will reveal itself, monumental, like a ship of stone overlooking the azure.

You will sail, senses heightened, towards Kythnos, a wild and hilly rock, tamed by traditional and environmentally friendly agriculture.

Planted with pine trees, olive trees and flowers, Spetses, known as “the island of jasmine”, is a popular haven of freshness in the Saronic Islands. The experiences, designed for you and with you, create possibilities for going back to basics in a setting that is conducive to contemplation.

At your own pace, immerse yourself in wild and stunning panoramas, away from the crowds, and enjoy moments spent in harmony with nature: glass-bottom kayaking, snorkelling, paddle-boarding, bike riding.

Trip Name
The Cyclades, in the Wake of Le Ponant
Days
8
Overview
Vessel Type: Motor Yacht Length: 88 metres Passenger Capacity: 64 Built: 1991 This sleek, expertly designed 88-metre-long and 56-metre-high three-master is one of the most majestic yachts in the world. In an age when everything is becoming computer controlled, it shines the spotlight back on the more manual, skilful art of sailing, combined with comfort, elegance, exclusivity and sustainability. The striking lines, the quality of the materials, the sophistication of the way they’re combined: the common areas, designed by French design studio Jean-Philippe Nuel, exude a sense of timelessness and offer a genuine connection with the exterior scenery and landscapes. Their design offers a blend of purity, excellence and a sense of easy living through the prominent use of stylish plain tones: off-white, taupe and caviar grey. No flourishes or embellishments here, but instead a unity between the common areas and the staterooms. Exterior bar - Sun Deck Sun Lounge area - Exterior bar The Le Diamant panoramic restaurant - Zéphyr Deck Seats 34 guests - 61 m² - Buffet breakfast and dinner - Fine gastronomic cuisine made using exceptionally high quality organic and local products - Veuve Clicquot champagne - Wines from French artisan wine producers and the regions visited. The Marina - Alizés Deck Two standard kayaks and two glass-bottomed kayaks - Four stand up paddleboards - Snorkelling equipment - Fishing equipment - Scuba diving equipment (for a group of four people) - Saltwater swimming pool - Small equipment for children (noodles, rings, armbands and safety equipment) - Bicycles The lounge and Bar Emeraude - Alizés Deck Interior surface : 92 m² - Seats 35 guests - Exterior surface : 85 m² - Seats 24 guests The wellness space - Alizés Deck Spa / massages (18.5 m²): one cabin offering massages and Biologique Recherche treatments - Gym (16 m²) with dedicated fitness instructor - Yoga sessions on the Sun Deck

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1 LAVRIO (ATHENS)
Near Athens, Lavrion is a peaceful port welcoming boats from around the world. The town has been known since ancient times for the silver-producing mines of Lavrion, which were major contributors to the wealth of Athens and to the Greek economy in the 20th century. Weather permitting, take a stroll through the town and discover the many vestiges of this industry that flourished until the 1980s: old Neoclassical-style constructions, industrial buildings, and worker houses. Not far from there, the ancient site of Thorikos reveals a Greek theatre and a marble temple dedicated to Demeter, both well preserved. The elegant silhouette of Le Ponant will be awaiting you at quay, to take you on an incredible journey to the heart of the Greek islands.
Day 2 - Day 2 TINOS
At full sail, you will chart a course to Tinos, a wild island in the Cyclades where, according to mythology, Aiolos lived. The cerulean blue of the Aegean Sea reveals, in contrast, the pretty port with immaculate buildings. Called “the island of the Virgin”, this pilgrimage destination for Greek Orthodox Christians is also an intimate refuge where Athenians join their families for holidays. The magnificent landscapes of this unspoiled island are dotted with numerous dovecotes, each with a finely crafted architecture. Here, the pared-down decor of the picturesque villages with whitewashed stone houses reveals itself between the intertwining streets and colourful bursts of bougainvillea in bloom. Be captivated by the magic of a wine tasting at sunset. The breathtaking view of Mykonos offers an exquisite setting to this moment frozen in time. Optional excursions are also possible, such as a van tour to discover the island’s villages or a hike along a high point between two villages.
Day 3 - Day 3 POLYAIGOS
Further to the south of the Aegean Sea, Le Ponant will reach Polyaigos, an uninhabited, maquis-covered volcanic island protected for its flora and fauna. This white, craggy, sunlit rock with magnificent cliffs that plunge into the turquoise waters reveals its wild and natural beauty. With your yacht at anchor, you will discover the island’s secret contours and recesses, and enjoy magical moments swimming, snorkelling, paddle-boarding, kayaking, or riding aboard a Zodiac dinghy. From the sea pool set up near the marina platform, enjoy the charms of this stunning island until sunset when the white rocks are reflected in the crystal-clear waters, creating a golden shimmer.
Day 4 - Day 4 FOLEGANDROS
A hidden treasure of the Cyclades, Folegandros is a mountainous island with an arid landscape patiently shaped into terraces by human hands. A lovely beach awaits you for a pleasant swim in the cyan blue water of the Aegean Sea. A shuttle can take you to the chora. Like many island villages, it was built long ago on the edge of a tall cliff to escape pirates. You will be captivated by the undeniable charm of the Cyclades architecture as you admire the white, one-storey houses with balconies and windows coloured in pretty shades of blue lining cobbled streets, hollyhocks and bougainvillea adorning their facades with their blooms.
Day 5 - Day 5 MONEMVASIA
The jewel of the southern Peloponnese, Monemvasia is the romantic refuge for Athenians. Given the poetic nickname of the “stone ship”, this majestic peninsula is home to an incredible fortified medieval village, lying at the foot of its abrupt cliffs, which seems to have been cast by the gods from the Aegean Sea. Contemplate the horizon from its ramparts, a veritable walkway defying the azure waters, and stroll through its vaulted narrow streets with their thousand shades of ochre. At the crossroads of western and eastern influences and the maritime routes of the continent, Crete and the Cyclades, Monemvasia has preserved in this magical decor the treasures of Venetian and Byzantine architecture.
Day 6 - Day 6 KYTHNOS
You will discover Kythnos, an arid and rocky island covered in maquis. Low dry stone walls delimit the terraces where olive groves stand alongside fig and almond trees that feed the imagination as much as the people. Discover the chora and its beautiful white houses by taking a stroll along the intertwined streets. A breakfast of traditional local dishes is planned, in an enchanting and private setting. Then, the welcoming shade of a parasol awaits you for a nap on the beach. You might also be tempted by a swim or a spot of paddle-boarding or kayaking to discover the exceptional landscapes of this island surrounded by the exceptionally beautiful Aegean Sea. Local conditions permitting, an optional dive will be possible near wrecks, some of which date back to the Second World War.
Day 7 - Day 7 SPETSES
Spetses, “the jasmine island”, is an unspoiled paradise and the favourite holiday spot of Athenian high society. The shaded outdoor dining areas of the restaurants serving local cuisine stand alongside beautiful boutiques. Away from the hustle and bustle of the world, stroll or cycle around the small port lined with the beautiful Neoclassical homes of shipowners and enjoy the pleasantness of the moment. There is a distinct dolce vita atmosphere in the air. From hidden coves to beaches of fine sand, this island is brimming with charm. The hiking trails through the pine forest also promise beautiful panoramas.
Day 8 - Day 8 LAVRIO (ATHENS)
Near Athens, Lavrion is a peaceful port welcoming boats from around the world. The town has been known since ancient times for the silver-producing mines of Lavrion, which were major contributors to the wealth of Athens and to the Greek economy in the 20th century. Weather permitting, take a stroll through the town and discover the many vestiges of this industry that flourished until the 1980s: old Neoclassical-style constructions, industrial buildings, and worker houses. Not far from there, the ancient site of Thorikos reveals a Greek theatre and a marble temple dedicated to Demeter, both well preserved. The elegant silhouette of Le Ponant will be awaiting you at quay, to take you on an incredible journey to the heart of the Greek islands.
Day 9 - Please Note:
Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type

Inclusions

    • Enjoy the extraordinary experience of sailing aboard Le Ponant as though you were on your own private yacht.
    • A limited-capacity yacht: a maximum of 32 passengers and as many crew members; a dedicated chef.
    • Sail on a ship propelled by the wind and enjoy the wonderful opportunities nature offers us to adapt the programme and navigate under sail whenever possible.
    • As the wind carries you, rediscover your taste for shared happiness and the essential.
    • (Re)discover the deep and secret soul of the Mediterranean and enjoy ports of call off the beaten path, revisited to offer you exclusive experiences.
    • On board as on shore, soak up the local riches and traditions of Croatia, and savour authentic moments through cultural encounters and gastronomy.
    • Exceptional moments on board and numerous water-based activities to rediscover the natural coasts of the Cyclades and the Peloponnese.
    • On board, to fulfil your most unexpected desires, or for lovers of the Mediterranean wishing to rediscover the must-see sites, PONANT is there to assist you and can arrange additional bespoke services.

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