Whitewashed stone building with terracotta tiles & short, stout tree beside sit overlooking the ocean at sunset in Greece.
Tan ancient Grecian column sits near other ruins on a hilltop in the sunshine on a Le Ponant Cyclades small ship cruise.
Olive tree branch with slender green leaves & large green & purple olives on long stems with blue sky behind.
Medium-sized white sailboat Le Ponant with 4 large white sails full of wind sails through calm blue sea in the sun in Greece.
Whitewashed Greek church with blue dome & silver cross on top sits by green foliage in the sun on a Le Ponant Cyclades cruise.
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Europe Mediterranean Cruise

The Cyclades in the Wake of Le Ponant

Over 8 days, navigate the Cyclades of Greece under sail aboard 32-guest Le Ponant. Enjoy sun-soaked days in the sparkling Aegean Sea. Explore this fascinating group of Greek islands with an elegant ship as home base. On this unique itinerary, experience the very essence of the Mediterranean while also welcoming the unexpected. At your own pace, immerse in stunning panoramas, away from the crowds, and enjoy time in nature with possible opportunities for swimming, glass-bottom kayaking, snorkeling and paddleboarding.

From the port of Lavrio, located very close to beautiful Athens, set sail in the direction of the Cyclades. Venture off the beaten path, taking in exclusive paradises, emblematic landscapes, intimate coves and hillside villages. Carried by the wind, head towards Tinos, one of the Greek archipelago’s most preserved islands. The serene atmosphere of this spiritual center infuses its sumptuous scenery. The white rocks of Polyaigos soften the jagged coasts of this uninhabited island, creating a natural sanctuary.

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. Leave the Cyclades and head towards the southeast of the Peloponnese, where the monumental fortified peninsula of Monemvasia will reveal itself. Next sail towards Kythnos, a wild and hilly rock tamed by traditional and environmentally friendly agriculture. Finally, visit Spetses; planted with pine trees, olive trees and flowers, Spetses is known as the Island of Jasmine, and is a popular haven of freshness in the Saronic Islands.

Sail aboard the luxury 32-guest Le Ponant. This Relais & Chateaux-affiliated motorsailer offers the feel of a private yacht, with more crew members than guests, room service, haute cuisine and refined French service. With three decks of open-air spaces, a swim platform and seawater pool for swim stops, and plenty of glass, this ship invites her guests to revel in the warm breezes and glittering waters through which she sails.

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s other Greek Island small ship cruisessmall ship Mediterranean cruises and Mediterranean trips.



Itinerary

The Cyclades, in the Wake of Le Ponant Itinerary

The Cyclades, in the Wake of Le Ponant cruise operates round-trip from Lavrio, near Athens, Greece, with visits to lesser-known islands as well as regional highlights, including one stop along the Peloponnese.

Route map of The Cyclades in the Wake of Le Ponant cruise, round-trip from Lavrio near Athens, Greece, with visits to Tinos, Polyaigos, Serifos, Monemvasia, Kythnos & Spetses.
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Day 1
Embark Lavrio (Athens), Greece

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. While at this port of call, also take the time to discover Athens and its acropolis, or Cape Sounion on which stands the magnificent temple of Poseidon.

Accommodations

Le Ponant

Meals

dinner

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Day 2
Tinos

At full sail, 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 colorful bursts of bougainvillea in bloom. Be captivated by the magic of a wine tasting. The breathtaking view of Mykonos offers an exquisite setting to this moment frozen in time. Included excursions are also possible to discover the island’s villages or a hike along a high point between two villages.

Accommodations

Le Ponant

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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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, discover the island’s secret contours and recesses, and enjoy magical moments swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding 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.

Accommodations

Le Ponant

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 4
Serifos

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 characterizes 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.

Accommodations

Le Ponant

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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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 the treasures of Venetian and Byzantine architecture in its magical decor.

Accommodations

Le Ponant

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 6
Kythnos

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 the chance to paddleboard or kayak to discover the exceptional landscapes of this island surrounded by the beautiful Aegean Sea.

Accommodations

Le Ponant

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 7
Spetses

Spetses, the Jasmine Island, is an unspoiled paradise and the favorite 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.

Accommodations

Le Ponant

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 8
Disembark Lavrio (Athens), Greece

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. While at this port of call, also take the time to discover Athens and its acropolis, or Cape Sounion on which stands the magnificent temple of Poseidon.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

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Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Accommodations; all meals while on board the ship; open bar including beer, wine and spirits including Veuve Clicquot champagne (only on Le Commandant Charcot and Le Ponant); evening entertainment and events; daily stocked minibar; room service (except at night on Le Ponant); bilingual French/English crew members; Zodiac and shore excursions (on select departures during the 2025 season, choose one complimentary excursion per person, per port of call, from a selection offered by Ponant); park entry fees into protected areas; complimentary unlimited Wifi on board; port fees and taxes (except for child passengers–see Families & Children); gratuities.

Exclusions

Optional add-on excursions or packages; ground services before or after the cruise (unless in Owner’s suite aboard Le Ponant); visa expenses; possible immigration reciprocity taxes; luggage handling; beverages beyond those in Inclusions; laundry, hair salon, spa treatments, onboard medical consultations and other personal charges; cancellation, luggage, assistance, repatriation, medical and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations beyond 14 days after booking confirmation are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
365 days or more – $250
364 to 211 days – 10% of total trip cost
210 to 91 days – 100% of deposit
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The Cyclades in the Wake of Le Ponant cruise begins and ends in Lavrio, near Athens, Greece (ATH). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Recommended flight arrival and departure times are specific to each voyage; consult your Adventure Specialist for guidelines relating to your departure. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Optional activities on your Cyclades in the Wake of Le Ponant cruise may include practicing photography, Zodiac cruising, snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking and possible swim stops. Optional added-cost excursions (on select departures, one per person, per port of call is included for the 2025 season) are available on certain days and may be pre-booked from two months to one week prior to departure, or booked on board; these excursions may require a minimum group size. In addition to these off-ship excursions, a multitude of possible onboard activities keep guests engaged, including themed evenings, films screened on the ship’s sails, spa treatments, fitness sessions with the onboard wellness coach and yoga classes on the Sun Deck.

Room Configuration

Select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. This supplement may vary depending on cabin category and remaining capacity per departure. A willing-to-share program is not available. Triple and quadruple rates may be available in select cabin categories; contact AdventureSmith for details.

Families & Children

Children 1 year and older at time of travel are welcomed on this cruise. Children under 18 years old at time of travel may receive special discounts when sharing a cabin with two full-fare adults. A child sharing a cabin with a single adult is considered to be a paying adult. Contact AdventureSmith for details.

Travel Insurance

A medical form for all travelers is required for every departure. Travelers are also highly encouraged to have full and adequate travel insurance covering the risks of cancellation, assistance being required, emergency medical evacuation and repatriation, damages to and loss of baggage, and medical expenses. In addition, we highly recommend our travelers protect their investment with travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and other benefits. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Rates & Dates

Cruise Rates & Dates

Rates are variable per remaining availability and are subject to change.

Jun 07 - Jun 14, 2025
Le Ponant • 8 days
From $14030USD
Per Person
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Jun 28 - Jul 05, 2025
Le Ponant • 8 days
From $16410USD
Per Person
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Jul 05 - Jul 12, 2025
Le Ponant • 8 days
From $14030USD
Per Person
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Jul 12 - Jul 19, 2025
Le Ponant • 8 days
From $14030USD
Per Person
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Jun 20 - Jun 27, 2026
Le Ponant • 8 days
From $12220USD
Per Person
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Jun 27 - Jul 04, 2026
Le Ponant • 8 days
From $13060USD
Per Person
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Jul 11 - Jul 18, 2026
Le Ponant • 8 days
From $13060USD
Per Person
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Accommodation

Learn About the Small Ship on Your Itinerary

Luxury
Le Ponant

This Relais & Chateaux ship with a crew of 33 treats her 32 guests to authentic and luxurious experiences with refined French touches. Come aboard for 3 decks of open-air spaces, upscale cuisine, onboard activity gear and the feel of a private yacht.

Book with the confidence that comes from experience.

100+ combined years of experience, 7 continents explored, decades of expedition cruising around the world & here to help you find & book your dream trip.

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The Cyclades in the Wake of Le Ponant