Piraeus has a vast history that dates back to ancient Greece. The city was founded in the early 5th century BC, when plans were put in place to make it the new port of Athens: A prototype harbor was built, concentrating all of Athens' import and transit trade, as well as the navy's base, in one location (Piraeus). The naval station in Piraeus had 372 trireme ship sheds during Athens' Classical period.[5] Beginning in the 3rd century B.C., Piraeus began to collapse. It began to expand again in the 19th century, once Athens was named the capital of Greece.

Climbing the rigging, untying ropes, setting sails – today is all about sailing. Time to lean back and relax in the deck chair and watch the passionate crew hoisting the sails by hand.

The unique character of Milos' landscape was formed by volcanic activity. Hot springs, spectacular cliffs, and distinctive rock formations give the various beaches their own individual character. The colors of Milos are most obvious where the water meets the stone and forms the coastline. Minerals have colored the sand and stones and each rock along the coastline seems to glow in a different color. Plaka, the picturesque old capital with its typical dazzling-white houses, is overlooked by a mighty castle that offers a superb view over Adamos Bay and the surrounding islands.

Does it still exist, a real insider tip in Greece? Astypalaia seems to be one of these places that have become rare. From above, the small island jewel looks like a butterfly that has landed on the blue waters of the Aegean Sea. Since the journey to Astypalaia is a bit tedious – if you are not just relaxed with the windjammer on the way – the little island is spared from tourist crowds and has been able to preserve its original charm. Thus, between countless beaches, crystal clear water, snow-white alleys and red windmill roofs, even as a guest you quickly become part of the typical Greek island everyday life.

At 300 meters above the deep blue sea, the monks are very close to heaven. The white monastery of Panagia Hozovitissa almost seems to grow out of the steep cliffs, so high and narrow is it. Its eight floors are connected by a labyrinth of corridors, and every now and then you catch a breathtaking view of the vastness of the Aegean Sea through a rock window. The magical cliff-top monastery is the best-known highlight of Amorgos, but beyond this architectural marvel, the charm of the Cycladic Island also enchants – with remote little mountain villages, old stone windmills, and the scent of wild oregano.
 

In the south of Naxos lies the idyllic fishing village of Agia Anna, with its secluded tavernas and beach bars on the small promenade. On both sides, lovely bays and beaches entice you to swim in the crystal-clear water. The huge Venetian castle in the island's capital, only a few kilometers (miles) away, once protected the city from attackers. Nowadays it offers you a stunning view over the whole island in all its glory. Even the gods loved the island. The German opera "Ariadne auf Naxos" was based on the myth of Dionysus and the Cretan king's daughter.

Although the capital of the Cyclades is situated on the tranquil and traditional island of Syros, outside of the town this seems the most remote island of them all. Ermoupoli, one of the most beautiful island towns in Greece, was built majestically on two hills. Its architecture is exceptional and the numerous monumental neo-classical buildings give the impression of a large, elegant town. Passing over the hill, the spaciousness and vastness transform into a maze of lanes and give a medieval impression.

Although the capital of the Cyclades is situated on the tranquil and traditional island of Syros, outside of the town this seems the most remote island of them all. Ermoupoli, one of the most beautiful island towns in Greece, was built majestically on two hills. Its architecture is exceptional and the numerous monumental neo-classical buildings give the impression of a large, elegant town. Passing over the hill, the spaciousness and vastness transform into a maze of lanes and give a medieval impression.

Disembark after breakfast.