According to Greek legend, Poseidon, god of the sea, transformed the Cyclades’ nymphs into islands — a poetic origin for an exceptionally scenic cruising destination. Travelers can explore this tranquil, sun-drenched archipelago aboard the handcrafted Aegean Clipper, a traditional 12-cabin sailing gulet offered by Peter Sommer Travels. The small-group cruise, limited to 18 guests, blends iconic islands with quieter, seldom-visited spots across both the Cyclades and the Dodecanese.
The itinerary highlights include remote destinations such as Astypalaia, Nisyros and Anafi, balanced with must-see islands. Guests visit Santorini — the volcanically active southern Cycladic group that drew Jacques Cousteau’s interest in the 1970s as a possible site of Atlantis — while also discovering lesser-known gems like the tiny island of Levitha.
Cultural and historical attractions enrich the voyage. Travelers will see the 1,500-year-old Panagia Drosiani church, the unfinished marble sculptures scattered across the quarries at Flerio, and the marble Portara gateway on Naxos that marks the site of a long-lost temple. The journey also stops at the striking Chozoviotissa monastery and the archaeological museum in Pothia, offering a pleasing mix of architecture, archaeology and local traditions.
This 15-day cruise is designed for travelers seeking an intimate, curated experience at sea. The program begins on April 30, 2016, and accommodates up to 18 passengers. Pricing starts at £3,775 (approximately $5,858) per person, based on double occupancy. The fare includes cabin accommodation and full board, airport transfers on arrival and departure days, all crew services onboard, land entrance fees and tips, expert-led excursions, and onboard WiFi where available.
The Aegean Clipper’s small size and traditional design allow access to quieter anchorages and harbors that larger ships cannot reach, creating opportunities to experience authentic island life and peaceful coves. Onboard, attentive crew members provide personalized service while excursions ashore are led by knowledgeable guides who bring the region’s history and culture to life.
Whether you’re drawn by archaeological sites, dramatic volcanic landscapes, or the chance to discover less-frequented islands, this cruise offers a relaxed way to explore the Cyclades and nearby island groups. Expect a thoughtfully paced itinerary that combines leisurely sailing, scenic stops, and immersive shore visits — all within the comfort of a limited-capacity, professionally crewed gulet.