As this is the designated arrival day, you have time to explore the Greek capital before you set sail. Athens is one of the world’s oldest cities, where you can explore over 3,400 years of history. Buy yourself the multi-site combo tickets for €30 that grants you entry for five days to all the classical sites, including the Acropolis hilltop and the famed Parthenon structure and six other Archaeological sites: Temple of Zeus, Ancient Agora, Hadrian’s Library, Roman Agora, Keramikos Cemetery and Lyceum of Aristotle. The modern Acropolis museum is well worth a visit to learn more and view hundreds of more artefacts. If you want to see and learn a lot on short time, consider one of the many Athens walking tours on offer – from general city navigation and history, to philosophy, architecture and, of course, food walking tours. Or stroll the old neighbourhoods from Plake to Psyri, try souvlaki or sip on a frappe and hang out with the locals in one of the city’s many cafes. In the afternoon, please make your way to our marina in Marina Zeas, where you can meet your fellow sailors ready for departure at 2 pm. Our first stop of the day is Agkristri Island, one of the small and perfectly formed Saronic group of islands. A hotspot for Athenians looking for a beach getaway, you too can indulge in this local secret – where uncrowded beaches and lush nature awaits. Optional activity: Toga Night: You can’t visit Greece and not revel in a traditional dinner, complete with Greek wine and spirits, all the meze and traditional Greek music to match your classic toga outfit. Get ready for the spirit of Greek OPA! on this fun evening. Diving: Diving is a treasure hunt to find some of the 2000-year-old ancient histories in the Sunken City of Epidaurus. Even if not deep diving, Epidvaros is known for its caves, underwater rock walls and stunning, fish-filled coral reefs in the azure waters which are also accessible if snorkelling.

We continue our Greek sailing adventure and journey towards to the little Greek island of Poros, famed for its wild lemon trees, sandy beaches with blue-green waters, lush greenery and Poseidon’s Temple ruins. Love Bay and Askeli are two of the island’s best-loved beaches, from which you can explore the Aegean Sea with adrenalin via the massive array of watersports on offer. There’s time to wander picturesque Poros Town, visit the historical Monastery of Zoodochos Pighi and sample some of the best Greek food – and cocktails – on the island.

Today we bid farewell to Poros and head for the ancient town of Ermioni. This pine tree backed and beach-lined cove looks and feels just like an island, filled with archaeological ruins and pretty villages. Take hilltop walks to stunning viewpoints, visit the Venetian castle in Thermisia village or head to the Mandrakia neighbourhood whose lively atmosphere is the perfect place to order a glass of wine from one of the area’s famous vineyards.

Spetses is the island of Greek naval traditions and played a significant role in the 1821 War of Independence, with preserved captain’s mansions on the seafront by the quaint Old Harbour of Dapia, and a thriving town that remains the heart of commercial life on the island. Horse-drawn carriages can take you on a romantic journey around the old town streets, and the iconic Cathedral of Agios Nikolaos is a must-visit for history lovers. There are a handful of beaches you can visit, many with water sports facilities, although Zogeriá (Paradise Beach) remains a favourite for sun-worshippers as it is considered the most beautiful with its backdrop of pine trees. We stay overnight in Spetses, allowing time to wander the atmospheric old town at dusk, where you’ll find lively bars and clubs. You can even join a late-night party on the beach.

On the firth day of our ocean cruising, we sail towards a revered gem of the Aegean – the island of Hydra. With a ban on wheeled and motor vehicles, Hydra uses donkeys as its primary means of transport. However, it’s compact size and layout means it’s just as easy to navigate on foot, where you can stroll its romantic cobble-stoned backstreets and narrow village walkways. As the heat rises, spend the afternoon in the calm waters swimming or by SUP (stand-up paddleboarding) in the tranquil bay on the Hydra coastline, or pass the time idly dining in a tavern, awaiting one of the best sunsets in Greece.

We will moor at the tiny fishing village of Perdika, perched on the idyllic eastern shores of Aegina Island, known for its temple of Athena Aphaia. Here you can indulge in some the Saronic Islands’ best seafood, as well as spend the afternoon swimming in the crystal-clear waters and wandering around the picture-perfect bay, before heading to the taverna-lined harbour for the last Greek island feast.

After a refreshing morning swim in the sparkling blues of the Aegean Sea, we’ll set sail for our final destination on your island-hopping sailing trip. Enjoy the sea breeze and ocean views as you relax onboard. We’ll arrive back in Athens in plenty of time for you to continue your exploration of the city. Our crew will be on hand to give you some top tips and local insights, to find corners of the city you wouldn’t otherwise know.

As we come back in full circle to Athens, this is our departure day, where you’ll be saying goodbye to your new friends and your crew. Hopefully, we will see you again next year for more sailing around the Greek islands.