Themed Wine Cruise with Tim Clarke
Explore the hidden gems of Greek viticulture on a luxurious wine cruise. Enjoy expert-led tastings by Tim Clarke, gourmet meals paired with exquisite wines, and the breathtaking scenery of the Greek islands.
Cruise Through Greece's Unique Wine Regions
Have you ever wondered what makes Greek wines so unique? The Aegean Sea, with its myriad of islands, offers more than just picturesque landscapes; it is a fertile ground for some of the world’s most distinctive wines. This region’s volcanic soil enriches the grapes, imbuing them with a unique mineral taste, particularly evident in the white wines produced here.
Unveiling the Allure of Assyrtiko Grape
What sets Assyrtiko apart from other white wines? As you sail from the historic vineyards of Santorini, you’ll discover the crisp, mineral flavors of the Assyrtiko grape. This grape variety challenges the supremacy of Chardonnay, offering a taste that is as refreshing as the Aegean breeze. Our wine expert, Tim Clarke, will guide you through tastings that highlight the depth and elegance of these wines, demonstrating why Assyrtiko has become a hallmark of Greek viticulture.
Agioritiko: Greece's Answer to Red Wine Delights
But what about red wines? Greece’s answer to the delicate complexity of red wines is Agioritiko, often referred to as the ‘Blood of Hercules.’ This grape produces wines that are light yet richly colored, capable of confusing even the most discerning palate into thinking it’s a Pinot Noir. Grown in the sun-drenched lands of the Peloponnese, Agioritiko is just the beginning of our exploration into the rich tapestry of Greek red wines.
Beyond Agioritiko: A Journey Through Greek Reds
Are there other Greek red wines to explore? Indeed, the journey into Greek reds does not stop with Agioritiko. From the robust Liatiko to the nuanced Xinomavro, each grape variety tells a story of tradition and innovation. These wines, crafted by passionate winemakers across the islands, offer a taste of Greece’s rich winemaking heritage and its vibrant future.
Why choose this themed wine cruise?
This journey is an invitation to indulge in the luxury of full-board accommodations on board 21 cabin Harmony G where every meal is a celebration of Greek culinary art, perfectly paired with local wines. Tim Clarke, a legend in the world of Greek wine, will not only introduce you to the nuanced world of Greek viticulture but also weave the stories and legends that each bottle encapsulates. From the volcanic soils of Santorini to the historical landscapes of the Peloponnese, this themed wine cruise offers an unparalleled exploration of Greece’s vinous treasures. You will visit Nafplio, Monemvasia, Santorini, Tinos among others.
Embarking on our Greek wine cruise offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the depth and diversity of Greek wines in luxury and comfort. With exclusive vineyard tours, expertly guided tastings, and gourmet meals that perfectly complement the wines, this journey promises not only a taste of Greece’s finest vintages but memories that will last a lifetime.
Anchors Aweigh
What’s on tim’s wine list?
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Day 1WednesdayArrival in Athens
Welcome to Athens
Arrive in Athens and transfer to your hotel. Spend the afternoon settling in or taking a gentle stroll through the local neighbourhoods near your accommodation.First Impressions
Enjoy your first evening in the city at leisure. Perhaps choose a nearby taverna for dinner, offering a relaxed introduction to Greek food and culture.Rest Before Your Journey
Return to your hotel for a good night’s sleep. Tomorrow brings more time to explore before embarking on your cruise -
Day 2ThursdayAthens at Leisure
A Day to Explore
Use today to explore Athens at your own pace. You may prefer to visit museums, stroll historic streets, or browse the city’s lively markets.City Highlights
Take time to enjoy coffee in a local café or wander through neighbourhoods where ancient landmarks blend effortlessly with modern life.Prepare for Embarkation
Relax in the evening and get ready for tomorrow’s embarkation at Marina Zeas.Meals included: Breakfast -
Day 3FridayMarina Zeas, Athens
Welcome Aboard
Embark in Marina Zeas and settle into life on board. Enjoy a welcome drink as you meet your fellow guests and crew members.Sail Past Cape Sounion
As you depart Athens, admire Cape Sounion and its famous temple. Dinner is served on board, paired with selected wines from the Ionian Islands.Overnight at Sea
Relax on deck as the yacht continues towards Tinos. Spend your first night at sea as the voyage begins.Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner -
Day 4SaturdayTinos
Morning Arrival
Arrive on Tinos, known for its churches and dramatic rocky landscapes. Visit Volacus Winery, set among the island’s impressive granite formations.Wine Tasting
Sample local varieties such as Assyrtiko and Malagousia while learning how Tinos’ terrain shapes its distinctive wines and winemaking style.Swim Stop & Sail
Weather permitting, enjoy a swim stop before dinner and a guided tasting on board. Sail overnight towards Samos.Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner -
Day 5SundaySamos
Discover Samos
Dock in Pythagorion and travel inland to Vakakis Winery, where traditional methods meet modern techniques to create elegant Samian wines.Village Lunch
Enjoy lunch in Platanos village, tasting local wines alongside fresh island flavours in a peaceful rural setting.Evening Pairings
Spend the afternoon at leisure before returning for dinner on board, featuring wines from Chios and Ikaria.Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner -
Day 6MondaySantorini
Aegean Morning
Enjoy a swim stop and lunch on board before arriving at Santorini, celebrated for its volcanic landscapes and exceptional white wines.Estate Argyros
Visit Argyros Winery to explore century-old vines and taste the island’s renowned Assyrtiko, shaped by Santorini’s unique volcanic soils.Dinner on Board
Return to the yacht for dinner paired with Santorini wines, before sailing overnight towards Milos.Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner -
Day 7TuesdayMilos
Morning Swim
Start the day with a swim in Milos’ clear turquoise waters, enjoying time ashore afterwards to explore the island independently.Konstantakis Winery
Visit the family-run Konstantakis Winery to sample wines shaped by the island’s volcanic character and traditional cultivation methods.Cretan Wines
Dinner on board features a selection of Cretan wines, presented by your wine host as you continue the journey.Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner -
Day 8WednesdayMonemvasia
Historic Winemaking
Arrive in Monemvasia, birthplace of the famed Malvasia wine. Visit Tsimbidi Winery, which plays a key role in reviving this historic tradition.Lunch & Sailing
Enjoy lunch ashore before the yacht departs for Nafplion. A swim stop may be possible, depending on weather and sea conditions.Peloponnese Wines
Dinner on board highlights wines from the Peloponnese as the ship approaches Nafplion for an evening arrival.Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner -
Day 9ThursdayNafplion & Nemea
Mycenae Visit
Begin with a visit to ancient Mycenae, one of Greece’s most important archaeological sites, known for its monumental Lion Gate.Wine Regions of Nemea
Continue to Nemea to visit Gaia Winery before heading to Semeli Estate for a relaxed lunch paired with regional wines.Farewell Dinner
Sail back to Marina Zeas in the afternoon. Enjoy a farewell dinner on board, celebrating wines from the Peloponnese.Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner -
Day 10FridayAthens
Departure Morning
Enjoy breakfast on board before disembarking at Marina Zeas, followed by your transfer to the airport for your flight home.Optional Excursion
An optional post-cruise excursion can be booked, offering a visit to a local winery near Athens with a guided tasting and lunch.For Later Flights
This optional tour is suitable for guests with flights home departing after 6pm, allowing a relaxed final day before travel.Meals included: Breakfast