The Gulf of Corinth Bike+Boat
Athens – Corfu or Corfu – Athens
The Gulf of Corinth and the Ionian Islands
On this Bike & Boat tour we explore both the Greek mainland as well as the impressive Ionian Islands. Along the way we get a first-hand experience of the scenic and cultural diversity in Greece as we travel by bike and on board the two-masted motor sailer, the Panagiota. The Ionian Islands show Greek at its greenest, unspoiled scenery and centuries of Venetian influence characterize this yet little-known archipelago. The glistening blue waters of the Ionian Sea, the mountainous landscape of Ithaca, the bird-sanctuary island, Lefkas, and the small island of Paxos covered in olive groves all play part in a wonderfully relaxing vacation. Famous sites such as Delphi and Aegina are just some of the highlights of the tour. The passage through the Corinth Canal is sure to become an unforgettable memory.
Dates 2025:
Arrival: Friday
Duration: 8 days
Dates:
Athens-Corfu:
Season 2: May 09.
Season 3: June 06., July 04., Aug 29., Sept 26.
Corfu-Athens:
Season 1: May 02.
Season 3: May 30., June 27., Aug 22., Sept 19.
Min.number of participants: 14 persons
1st Day: Athens/Piraeus (Marina Zeas) – (Embarkation)
Individual arrival at Marina Zeas (Piraeus). It is possible to check in on the Panagiota from 2 pm. Dinner on board and overnight stay in the harbour of Piraeus.
2nd Day: Piraeus – Aegina Island – Corinth Canal – Galaxidi (aprx. 22 mi./35 km)
In the morning we sail to Aegina, an island famous for its pistachios even beyond Greek borders. Here our first cycle tour takes us to the exceptionally well-preserved temple of Aphaia, enthroned high above the azure sea. In the afternoon, we sail through the Isthmus of Corinth, completed in 1893, though plans for its construction date back to Julius Caesar. This 3.9 mi./6.3 km long, 79 ft./24 m wide, and 26 ft./8 m deep canal connects the Aegean Sea with the Gulf of Corinth and saves travellers sailing from Athens to Corinth the 258 mi./400 km long trip around the whole Peloponnese peninsular. If weather conditions are fine, we continue sailing to Galaxidi, otherwise overnight stay in or near Corinth.
3rd Day: Galaxidi – Delphi – Nafpaktos – Mesolongi
In the morning, a transfer shuttle collects us from Galaxidi and takes us to the famous ancient site of Delphi, which rests at the foot of the Parnassus mountain range. It was here the ancient Greeks came to worship Apollo, the god of the light, and to consult the oracle. A visit to Delphi is a truly unforgettable experience not only due to the many temples, treasuries, the well-preserved theatre, and the stadium, but also thanks to the incredible hill-side location and views of the surrounding mountains. In the afternoon, the bus takes us to the harbour of Nafpaktos where we have time for lunch and a short stroll through the beautiful town before another short bus ride brings us to Mesolongi. The boat meets us here and we stay the night.
4th Day: Mesolongi – Ithaca Island (aprx. 21 mi./35 km)
In the morning, a longer crossing takes us to Ithaca. If the weather is good, guests can take a swim break on the way before docking at the port of Vathy. In the afternoon we explore the legendary Ithaca by bike. Ithaca is a mountainous, scenic island where you can enjoy the unique charm of the Ionian Islands away from the tourist crowds. Beautiful olives, deep blue sea and friendly locals – on Ithaca, time seems to have stood still. Spectacular views await you on this round trip! Overnight stay in Vathy.
5th Day: Ithaca Island (aprx. 12 or 17 mi./20 or 28 km)
During breakfast we cross the sea to Meganisi. Our bike tour takes us along a panoramic route on quiet island roads through the three villages of this lovely island and gives you a good impression of the traditional island life of the locals. At the beach of Spartochori, we have time for a coffee and swimming break. In the afternoon, the journey continues to Nidri on Lefkas, where guests have the opportunity (if desired) to cycle through rustic olive groves to the hidden waterfall of Nidri. Overnight stay in Nidri.
6th Day: Nidri –Lefkas town – Paxos Island (aprx. 19 mi./30 km)
Today’s bike tour leads through the impressive mountains of Lefkas to the island capital of the same name. On the way you can enjoy spectacular views before enjoying a well-deserved coffee in the mountain village of Karia. In the town of Lefkas, the Panagiota awaits us for a longer crossing to Paxos, during which you have plenty of time to relax. You can spend the evening in one of the cozy taverns in the unique natural harbour of Gaios.
7th Day: Paxos Island (aprx. 14 mi./23 km)
Paxos, the smallest of the seven Ionian Islands, is so densely covered in olive trees the whole island seems to glisten a wonderful silver green colour. Our morning tour leads us around the whole island. There is plenty of time to enjoy a swim in the sea at one of the many beaches. In the afternoon, the Panagiota takes us to Corfu. The last evening on board concludes with a communal dinner and last get-together in a cosy atmosphere with crew, fellow travellers, and tour guides.
8th Day: Corfu Island/Corfu city (Disembarkation)
After breakfast check-out and individual return home or extended stay on Corfu Island.
ITINERARY Corfu – Athens
1st Day: Corfu/Corfu city (Embarkation)
Individual arrival by plane and subsequent transfer to the ship. It is possible to check in on the Panagiota from 2 pm onwards. Dinner on board and overnight stay on Corfu.
2nd Day: Paxos Island (aprx. 15 mi./23 km)
Cast off! In the morning we sail to Paxos, the smallest of the seven Ionian Islands. This tiny island is so densely covered in olive trees the whole island seems to glisten a wonderful silver green colour. Our morning tour leads us around the whole island. There is plenty of time to enjoy a swim in the sea at one of the many beaches. Later, we can enjoy the evening in a cosy tavern in the unique natural harbour of Gaios! Overnight stay on Paxos.
3rd Day: Lefkas town – Nidri (aprx. 19 mi./30 km)
Our day begins with a longer sail to the town of Lefkas. During the crossing we pass by the original swing bridge which connects the island of Lefkas to the Greek mainland. Today’s tour leads us across the island’s fascinating mountain landscape to the lively harbour of Nidri. The island of Skorpios, once the private haven of shipping magnate Aristotle Socrates Onassis, can be seen from our mooring. The night is spent in Nidri.
4th Day: Ithaca Island – Mesolongi (aprx. 12 or 17 mi./20 or 28 km)
Early in the morning we cruise to the island of Ithaca for our day’s bike tour. This hilly island with its spectacular scenery is said to have been home of the mythical king Odysseus. During the ride we get to enjoy the special character of the Ionian Islands off beaten tourist track: gnarled olive trees, crystal clear water and friendly islanders – time appears to stand still on Ithaca. We then board the boat once more for a longer sail to Mesolongi in the Corinthian Gulf, where we spend the night.
5th Day: Mesolongi – Galaxidi (aprx. 28 mi./44km)
In the morning, we leave Mesolongi and cycle through the rich alluvial plains of the Evinos River – one of the most important agricultural regions in Greece. During the tour, we take a break at Krioneri Beach for a coffee and swim before returning to Mesolongi. In the afternoon we can relax on board the boat as we cruise under the Rio-Antirrio bridge to the picturesque harbour of Galaxidi, where we spend the night.
6th Day: Galaxidi – Delphi – Corinth Canal
In the morning, a transfer shuttle collects us from Galaxidi and takes us to the famous ancient site of Delphi, which rests at the foot of the Parnassus mountain range. It was here the ancient Greeks came to worship Apollo, the god of the light, and to consult the oracle. A visit to Delphi is a truly unforgettable experience not only due to the many temples, treasuries, the well-preserved theatre, and the stadium, but also thanks to the incredible hill-side location and views of the surrounding mountains. In the afternoon, the bus takes us back to Galaxidi. We then continue by boat and sail through the Isthmus of Corinth. Though the canal was completed in 1893, plans for its construction date back to Julius Caesar. This 3.9 mi./6.3 km long, 79 ft./24 m wide, and 26 ft./8 m deep seaway connects the Aegean Sea with the Gulf of Corinth and saves travellers sailing from Athens to Corinth the 258 mi./400 km long trip around the whole Peloponnese peninsular.
7th Day: Aegina Island – Piraeus/Marina Zeas (aprx. 19 mi./30 km)
Our last cycling tour is on Aegina, an island famous for its pistachios even beyond Greek borders. During our tour we visit the exceptionally well-preserved temple of Aphaia, enthroned high above the azure sea. Afterwards, we enjoy our final crossing to Piraeus, where our wonderful week comes to an end. The last evening on board concludes with a communal dinner and last get-together in a cosy atmosphere with crew, fellow travellers, and tour guides.
8th Day: Athens/Piraeus (Disembarkation)
After breakfast check-out and individual return home or extended stay in Athens.
Important Information
We reserve the right to make changes to the itinerary, depending on wind and weather conditions or organizational requirements. Sometimes the tour will be run in reverse order. Our tours are dependent on weather conditions and the final decision is that of the captain. You are free to set aside a half or full day to swim or spend time on board the boat, instead of taking a planned bike-tour.
YOUR ACCOMMODATION:
YOUR ShiP – PANAGIOTA
At 23 x 6 m the MS Panagiota is a traditional Greek caique, fully renovated in 2001. A cosy saloon with stained glass windows, comfortable seating areas throughout the ship, and sunning mats on both sun decks provide a truly relaxed and homely atmosphere. The 10 cabins, named after Greek islands, are stylishly furnished, air conditioned, and fitted with both shower and toilet.
General information:
Group riding pace
On most of our Bike & Boat tours you can choose between a hybrid bike and an e-bike. However, the guided group pace is based on the speed of the hybrid bike cyclists. Those who rent an e-bike on a hybrid bike tour are asked to show consideration for those who ride without electronic assistance. Hybrid bike cyclists need more breaks and more time to cycle the hills. We thank you for your understanding.
Children
We believe that only children with a good physical condition and previous bicycle tour experience and a minimum age of 10 are able to master the cycle tours with their own strength. Please note that the minimum height for a rental bike is 1.30 m (4.3 ft.) for hybrid bikes and 1.50 m (5ft.) for e-bikes.
Internet availability
Please note that there is no WiFi available onboard the Panagiota. If you need to connect to the internet during the tour, we recommend bringing your portable electronic device to a cafe or bar somewhere in the harbour. Free WiFi is on offer almost everywhere. If you order something to eat or drink, then you are able to use the WiFi to your hearts content.
YOUR BICYCLES:
21-speed ladies or gents
E-Bikes
- Quality brand bicycles
- Touring bikes with derailleur
- Odometer
- 1 Ortlieb-pannier bag
Insurance against theft and damage of the rental bike bookable:
hybrid bicycle: 20 euro/week; e-bike: 30 euro/week (not insured: grossly negligent damages)
ATTENTION:
–Bringing own e-bikes not allowed on our ships!
–Helmets are mandatory on our bike tours. It is advised to bring your own, well fitted, helmet with you as our rental helmet numbers are limited (reservation required).
ARRIVAL INFORMATION:
Airport
- next airport: Athens (ATH) or Corfu (CFU)
Transfer
- Transfers bookable- see Prices
- 8-day trip on a motorized yacht with crew
- 7 nights in a twin cabin below deck with shower/toilet
- 2 x full-board and 5 x half-board on board
- drinkable water on board
- Guided bike tours and sightseeing as described in the itinerary
- Overview-maps for the daily bike tours (on board)
- Entrance fee to museums and archaeological sites (group visit only)
- Transfer to Delphi
- Passage through the Corinth Canal
- Bed linen and towels
- English-speaking tour guide
3-day additional program Athens
pre or post tour bookable (depending on starting point of the tour)
Included services:
- 2 overnight stays in Athens either at a three or four-star hotel
- Taxi transfers from the airport to the hotel or from the hotel to the airport
- Entrance fee to Acropolis
- 1 dinner at the TO KAFENEION restaurant (drinks excluded) in the old town of Plaka
- 1 guided tour of your choice: either Athens by e-bike tour, Athens foodies tour or mythological walk
- brochure on further recommended activities in Athens
Minimum number of participants: 2 persons
3 star hotel | price per person |
Double room | 550,- |
Single room | 770,- |
4 star hotel | |
Double room | 650,- |
Single room | 870,- |
4-day additional program Santorini
pre or post tour bookable (depending on starting point of the tour)
Included services:
- 3 nights in a 3-star boutique hotel
- transfers between Santorini airport or ferry port and the hotel
- 1 guided tour of your choice: either sea kayak tour or e-bike tour or a culinary caldera walk
- brochure on further recommended activities on Santorini
Minimum number of participants: 2 persons
Hotel | price per person |
Double room (Standard) | from 670,- |
Single room (Standard) | from 1.090,- |
Double room (Deluxe) | from 750,- |
Single room (Deluxe) | from 1.150,- |
3-day additional program Korfu
pre or post tour bookable (depending on starting point of the tour)
Included services:
- 2 nights’ accommodation in Corfu Town with breakfast (choice of 3-star or 4-star hotel, booking subject to availability)
- Taxi transfers between Corfu Airport/Corfu Port and hotel at the beginning and end of the extension program
- 1 guided tour of your choice: either culinary & cultural Corfu town walking tour or kayak tour on Corfu’s east coast or sunset hike on Corfu’s west coast
- Information booklet on active leisure activities on Corfu
Minimum number of participants: 2 persons
3 star hotel | price per person |
Double room | 530,- |
Single room | 710,- |
4 star hotel | |
Double room | 660,- |
Single room | 850,- |
Season 1 | Season 2 | Season 3 | |
2-bed cabin lower deck | 1.999,- | 2.099,- | 2.199,- |
2-bed cabin above deck | 2.349,- | 2.449,- | 2.549,- |
2-bed cabin for single use lower deck | 2.999,- | 3.149,- | 3.299,- |
2-bed cabin for single use above deck | 3.524,- | 3.674,- | 3.824,- |
Discounts additional bed/children
Children up to age 16 receive a discount of 25 % on the basic tour price.
Additional bookable
Rental bikes | ||
21-speed | 80,- | |
E-Bike | 245,- |
Additional nights incl. breakfast | upon request |
Shared transfer on arrival-/departure day | price per person/way |
Airport Athens – ship | upon request |
Athens city hotel – ship | upon request |
Airport Corfu – ship | upon request |
Corfu city hotel – ship | upon request |
Operator: Inselhüpfen/Zeitreisen
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