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The Cyclades, in the Wake of Le Ponant

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The Cyclades, in the Wake of Le Ponant
The Cyclades, in the Wake of Le Ponant
The Cyclades, in the Wake of Le Ponant
Lavrion
Lavrion
Athens
Athens
Tinos
Tinos
Spetses
Spetses
Monemvasia
Monemvasia
Athens
Athens
Athens
Athens
Athens
Athens
Athens
Athens
Athens
Athens

Overview

“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 read more of living in the moment, being fully present for your trip.

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.

The discreet island of Serifos is ideal for a walk punctuated by the picturesque white houses that stretch into the distance, amidst a setting perfumed by the scents of thyme and marjoram. Here, the beach with its surreal blue will also tempt you for a swim.

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 activities, 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*.
Our Price From
US$17,230 per person
Price shown based on twin share
Check Availability
Trip Length
Cruise Length

8 Days

Trip Starts
Cruise Starts

Athens

Trip Ends
Cruise Ends

Athens

Trip Departures
Cruise Departures
Jun 2026 to Jun 2026
Countries Visited
Countries Visited:
Greece
Countries Visited
Oceans Sailed:
Cruise Line
Cruise Line
Ponant
Cruise Shi
Cruise Ship
Le Ponant
Ship Class
Ship Class

Sailing Yacht

Passengers
Passengers

32

Crew
Crew

33

Ship Launch
Launched

1997

Ship Refurbished
Refurbished

2021

Ship Refurbished
Cruise Code

GRLAVGRLAV7

Itinerary

Departs: 18:30

Welcome to the ancient city of Athens, the 'Cradle of Western Civilisation'. If your schedule is tight, savor traditional Greek coffee at a café with a view of the city's iconic ruins, soaking in the historic ambiance before your cruise departs. If you've got time to explore the Acropolis stands as a must-see, a UNESCO World Heritage site, adorned with iconic structures like the Parthenon and nearby Temple of Olympian Zeus. The nearby Acropolis Museum showcases stunning artifacts from ancient Greece, providing deeper insight into the city's heritage.

Port:Lavrion

Lavrion, a pivotal port located on the southeastern tip of Attica, Greece, is your gateway to the mesmerizing beauty of the Aegean Sea and the historical riches of Athens. The cruise terminal in Lavrion is situated 60 kilometers (about 37 miles) from Athens, translating to an approximate travel time of 1 hour by car. This proximity offers a seamless connection for explorers eager to witness the ancient marvels of Athens, including the Acropolis, the Plaka district, and the National Archaeological Museum.

For those interested in local attractions, the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion is a short drive away, offering stunning sunset views over the Aegean. Lavrion itself charms visitors with its quaint marina, seafood restaurants, and mineralogical museum, making it a delightful starting point or finale to your Aegean adventure.

Arrives: 08:00 Departs: 23:00

Tinos, a gem in the Cyclades archipelago of Greece, is an island that captivates with its serene landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Unlike its more famous neighbors, Tinos offers a tranquil retreat with its marble-clad villages, dovecotes, and unspoiled beaches. The island is revered for its religious significance, home to the Panagia Evangelistria church, attracting pilgrims with its miraculous icon.

For the discerning traveler, Tinos presents an array of experiences. Explore the scenic village of Pyrgos, renowned for its marble artistry, and meander through its picturesque streets. Culinary enthusiasts will delight in the local tavernas serving traditional Greek dishes, where the flavors of the Aegean come to life. With activities peaking later in the morning, there's ample time to enjoy a leisurely start to the day, soaking in the island's natural beauty and warm hospitality.

Arrives: 12:00 Departs: 19:00

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 or kayaking. Enjoy the charms of this stunning island until sunset when the white rocks are reflected in the crystal-clear waters, creating a golden shimmer.

Departs: 15:00

The best words to describe Serifos are probably serenity and authenticity. This small island in the Cyclades archipelago is a port of call off the beaten track, on the waters of the Aegean Sea. The whiteness of its villages contrasting with its hilly scenery illuminates the dry vegetation that characterises the Cyclades. Its main town Chora, perched on the heights, can be reached by a steep path that offers unique panoramas over the deep blue sea and its magnificent bay.

Arrives: 07:00 Departs: 22:00

A town of rustic, lyrically romantic beauty, Monemvasia is perched on a colossal rock island, which rears spectacularly from the waves. The rock is laced with tight cobbled streets, exposed stone masonry and pretty Byzantine churches. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to the shore.

Top Things to Do in Monemvasia:

  • explore the medieval town of Mystras
  • visit the 13th century Christ Elkomenos Cathedral
  • visit the Archeological Museum
  • taste some of the renowned sweet wine

Arrives: 10:30 Departs: 19:00

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. 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.

Arrives: 08:00 Departs: 22:00

Spetses, an enchanting island near the Argolic Peninsula of Greece, is famed for its significant role in the Greek War of Independence and retains a grandeur in its neoclassical mansions lining the old harbor and narrow, cobblestone streets. A visit here is a step back in time, where cars are rare and horse-drawn carriages offer a charming way to explore.

The island's vibrant maritime history is on display at the Spetses Museum, housed in the mansion of a heroic war figure. For a leisurely afternoon, the beaches around the island provide serene spots for relaxation. The local almond sweets and seafood are not to be missed, enriching any visit with authentic Greek flavors.

Arrives: 07:00

If you've got time to explore the rich heritage of Athens, begin at the Acropolis, where the Parthenon offers breathtaking views of the city. Nearby, the Plaka district's narrow streets are filled with charming shops and tavernas, perfect for leisurely exploring. Visit the Ancient Agora to walk in the footsteps of Socrates. For a modern twist, the National Archaeological Museum houses treasures spanning millennia. Wrap up your day with a sunset stroll up Lycabettus Hill, providing panoramic vistas of this timeless city.

Port:Lavrion

Lavrion, a pivotal port located on the southeastern tip of Attica, Greece, is your gateway to the mesmerizing beauty of the Aegean Sea and the historical riches of Athens. The cruise terminal in Lavrion is situated 60 kilometers (about 37 miles) from Athens, translating to an approximate travel time of 1 hour by car. This proximity offers a seamless connection for explorers eager to witness the ancient marvels of Athens, including the Acropolis, the Plaka district, and the National Archaeological Museum.

For those interested in local attractions, the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion is a short drive away, offering stunning sunset views over the Aegean. Lavrion itself charms visitors with its quaint marina, seafood restaurants, and mineralogical museum, making it a delightful starting point or finale to your Aegean adventure.

Note: Ship ports may not be located in the starting & ending cities listed. Port and transfer details will be provided in your travel documentation. The provided itinerary is for informational purposes only. Activities and sightseeing attractions listed may not be available or achievable within the time in port.

Life On Board

Ponant
 (6) Reviews
Total No. of Cruises 336
It's time to join Ponant's team of experienced naturalist guides and expedition experts to discover some of the world’s most distant and sought-after shores, venture into the heart of extreme lands and be immersed in nature on one of many Zodiac outings and shore excursions. Whether you dream of stepping foot on the Antarctic more Peninsula, witnessing the incredible rise of Montgomery reef in the Kimberley or meeting and interacting with local communities in the Arctic, Ponant, the world leader in luxury expeditions can take you there.
Le Ponant
Le Ponant

This sleek, expertly designed 88-metre-long and 56-metre-high three-master is one of the most majestic yachts in the world. Read more

Free as a Bird
Free as a Bird

Le Ponant embodies a simple philosophy - the freedom to do or not to do. Onboard Le Ponant, everyone is free to set their own pace. Read more

Room with a View
Room with a View

With an emphasis on space and freedom, Le Ponant gives guests a sense of being on their own private yacht. Read more

Gourmet Gastronomy
Gourmet Gastronomy

Locally sourced, gourmet and refined gastronomy celebrates the delights of fine food and the riches of nature. Read more

What's On Board
What's On Board

Book a spa treatment, endulge in fine gastronomic cuisine or relax in the common areas, designed by French design studio Jean-Philippe Nuel. Read more

Discovery and Exploration
Discovery and Exploration

Join Ponant's world-renowned expedition team and naturalist experts in a breathtaking sailing environment. Read more

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Ponant Luxury Voyages (2025-26) Brochure

Ponant Luxury Voyages (2025-26)

Ponant invites you on a journey that transcends travel—an inner and outer exploration shaped by passion, culture, and discovery. From the icy expanse of the Arctic aboard the world’s only luxury icebreaker to the vibrant rhythms of Japan and Polynesia, these voyages are designed to awaken your senses and your soul. With exclusive partnerships and enriching more experiences, Ponant Explorations promises transformational travel at its most refined.

Dates & Pricing USD USD

Cabin Layout Options:

Select Cabin Preference:

From $17,230
Sold Out
From $24,920
Saturday 20 Jun 2026 20 Jun 26 Athens
Saturday 27 Jun 2026 27 Jun 26 Athens
Details
Le Ponant
Oceanview
US$19,800
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday 27 Jun 2026 27 Jun 26 Athens
Saturday 04 Jul 2026 04 Jul 26 Athens
Details
Le Ponant
Oceanview
US$17,230
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Ponant. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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