Catamaran Sailing From Saronic Islands to Naxos
- Vessel: Zorba Cat
- Where: Saronics/Cyclades, Greece
- Duration: 8 days
- Embark: Aegina, Saronic Islands - 6 July 2024, 18:00
- Disembark: Naxos, Cyclades - 13 July 2024, 09:00
Sail from the Greek island of Aegina to Naxos as you experience the very best of the Cyclades under sail with Zorba Cat.
Join the modern yacht Zorba Cat in her home country of Greece as you get ready to enjoy an authentic Greek sailing holiday from the islands of Aegina to Naxos, enjoying the best of the Cyclades and Saronic islands.
This week is dedicated to more experienced sailors or adventurous newbies who are ready for an exhilarating sailing experience. It is the perfect opportunity for those who wish to learn more about sailing and improve their skills with longer passengers at sea.
- Fully crewed catamaran
- Island hopping & historical exploration
- Eat on board and shoreside Taverna’s
- Suitable for beginners
- Whole boat yacht charter available
- Swimming & Snorkelling
- Ancient History
- Half Board
- Sail area & highlights
- Gallery
- Life on board
- Kit list
- Sample menu
- Travel planning
- The boat
- FAQs
- What's included
- Boat schedule
Your Sailing Area
Aegina to Naxos
This one-way sailing cruise gives guests the chance to explore the Cyclades and Saronic Islands on the way to Naxos.
From the island of Aegina, exactly where you will stop will depend entirely on the weather and wind forecasts for the week but could see you stopping at Aegina, Poros in the Saronic Islands before heading towards the Cycladic islands of Kea and Sifnos before reaching Naxos.
The local secret of Kea is a great weekend hangout and summer hideaway and has a different landscape and architecture than its Cycladic sisters. Other island stops along the way could also include Sifnos – the most delicious Greek island and a beauty to behold. Serifos – with its rugged mining sites, ladened with history, has its distinct Cycladic flair and Kythnos boasting a wild natural landscape, elegant architecture and a selection of stunning beaches and lovely hot springs to swim at night.
As we set sails to the island of Naxos, the largest island in Cyclades with beautiful beaches and a gorgeous old town of meandering alleys. We might stop in Paros (with its quieter sister Antiparos) offering guests a chance to visit and feel the “real Greece” with its relaxed local atmosphere.
From afternoon anchorages on remote islands perfectly lined with crystal coves for swimming and snorkelling to the very best, tried and tested tavernas on the main islands, there won’t be time to see it all and you’ll be longing to return before you’ve even stepped foot off the boat. There is something for everyone sailing with Zorba, from relaxing on the sun deck to learning the ropes, the experience really is yours to make.
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LIFE AT SEA
All voyages for Zorba Cat
Zorba Cat
Guest berths: 10 Rig: Sloop
Sail in luxury aboard Zorba Cat through the stunning Greek islands. Enjoy her comfort and style, as well as exceptional service as you relax and indulge in the beauty of the Mediterranean landscape.
Zorba Cat is a modern Fountaine Pajot Eleuthera 60ft catamaran. She has five private cabins for guests: two master aft ensuite cabins, two double forward ensuite cabins and one small double ensuite cabin with a deck ladder entrance. All cabins are complete with modern push-button toilets and wet room-style showers.
With a generous saloon and a well-equipped galley, Zorba Cat was built with charter and guest comfort at the forefront of her design, with full air conditioning throughout. With a dropped transom, easy steps down into the water, nets to lay out on the bow, outdoor seating, and a dining area at the stern, Zorba Cat gives guests the perfect access to that crystal clear Mediterranean sea!
A sailing holiday in Greece with a luxury catamaran is accessible to all ages and abilities. Her simple rig makes her a leisurely sail with winch systems and modern navigation equipment. Unlike some catamarans, she’s a great boat to sail, whether you’re an experienced sailor looking for some sunshine or a novice wanting to try something new.
Her owners and skippers absolutely love what they do, and that’s evident for guests to see and, even better, experience first-hand. They are well-tuned to all abilities and ages, from family charters with young children to groups of friends or voyages for couples and solo travellers. They tailor every trip to suit their guests’ needs, so if you want to sit back, enjoy the Mediterranean sunshine, and enjoy the cuisine of the local tavernas – that’s fine, too!
A sailing holiday on Zorba Cat will certainly leave you with long-lasting memories. She is available to book by the cabin or as a private charter for your friends and family. Every sailing charter is fully crewed, and breakfast and lunch are included in your ticket price.
Read more about to what to expect from Life on Board here >
Deck plan
More about Zorba CatLife on Board
Zorba Cat provides an authentic sailing experience in Greece, where you can discover hidden anchorages away from tourist-heavy areas and dine in traditional Greek seaside tavernas. Whether you’re a family, couple, or solo traveller, there’s something for everyone with Zorba Cat’s charters. Expect an unforgettable sailing holiday with her!
Authentic Greece
During all of Zorba Cat’s voyages, the main aim is to avoid tourist crowds and instead opt for small harbours or anchorages next to deserted islands. Each day, guests stop for a swim in beautiful bays, some of which are wild, while others have a small taverna serving fresh fish and seafood for lunch, often taken out of the water before their very eyes. Guests have the opportunity to jog or practice yoga in the morning, enjoy organic healthy food on board, and experience a healthy lifestyle close to nature. Friendly locals, as well as delicious food and wine, are common features on all the islands that Zorba Cat visits.
All Zorba Cat voyages offer a perfect balance of relaxation, sightseeing and sailing! Depending on the itinerary, Aga and Greg recommend and organize excursions to historical sites and other places worth visiting.
A Typical Day
After a peaceful night’s rest, you can start your day by indulging in a wholesome breakfast, take a leisurely stroll ashore and savour a delicious cup of coffee while admiring the scenic surroundings.
We usually sail for a few hours each day until we arrive at a stunning bay with a deserted beach. There we have plenty of time to enjoy activities such as snorkelling, swimming, sunbathing, exploring the island or bay, and reading books. Together, we prepare a light lunch, and the Greek salad seems to be an ideal choice for a hot day. After lunch, we take some downtime, and maybe even a little siesta or a swim before setting sail again.
Zorba Cat has stand-up paddle-boards, kayaks, a wake-board and snorkel masks for guests to use included in the ticket price.
In the afternoon, we’ll set the sails again to a new location. If you’re interested, you can learn how to steer, tie knots, and pull ropes. Alternatively, you can simply relax and sunbathe on the deck. Before the evening arrives, we will arrive at a new island and dock in a charming little village. There, we will explore the area and enjoy the beautiful sunset, which is rumoured to be even more impressive than the one in Santorini!
In the evenings, our main focus is to unwind and take things slowly. We usually head to a traditional Taverna to sample some amazing local food and delicious Greek wine, while enjoying live music and dancing some Zorba. “No hurry” is our motto for the night.
The menu
The ticket price includes breakfast and lunch, and Aga will be your host and main chef on board Zorba Cat. However, guests are welcome to participate in all aspects of life on board and often assist with food preparation and cooking. Aga plans to go shopping on the first day and would like to invite guests to join her so that everyone’s preferences can be considered. The evening meals will mostly consist of dishes from Aga & Greg’s favourite Greek tavernas. Local cuisine, fresh fish, and seafood can be purchased at a relatively low cost of about 20€ per person, which includes wine.
Aga and Greg have spent many years exploring this region of Greece, and they believe that to experience authentic Greece truly, guests should have the opportunity to dine in Greek tavernas. If spending a night on a remote anchorage is a priority, dinner will be prepared communally aboard.
Sleeping and Relaxation
Zorba Cat is a custom-built charter catamaran, so all her communal spaces and cabins have been well-considered and are generously proportioned.
There are two primary dining areas on the yacht – one in the spacious open saloon and the other on the deck, where you can enjoy alfresco dining. You’ll find numerous spots to read a book or soak up the sun, both on the decks and across the bow nets. Additionally, the dropped transom is perfect for easy access in and out of the water.
Zorba Cat has two master ensuite cabins and two forward double ensuite cabins.
The Master cabins are at the rear and on either side of the catamaran with oversized standard double beds. In one of the cabins, the bed can be split into two single beds. The ensuite is a modern push-button flush toilet with a wet room-style shower.
On either side at the front of the boat, there are two double ensuite cabins complete with a double bed. The ensuite is a modern push-button flush toilet with a wet room-style shower.
For 10-person private charters only, there is a small double ensuite that can be accessed via a vertical ladder from the deck. This cabin is great for solo travellers and for children to share.
Kit list
Zorba Cat has lots of space for possessions but please be considerate and travel with rigid cases, only in a soft bags or wheelie cases that are only hard on one side.
We recommend a travelling light principal with lots of lightweight, easy drying layers. Below is a list of recommended items, these are not mandatory and those that have sailed before may have their own preferences!
- Light shoes/trainers (with good grip)
- Flip flips, sandals OR Crocs
- Swimsuits and a swim towel
- Wash towel – micro fibres are great for lightweight and quick drying
- Lightweight, quick-dry clothes
It can be quite a few degrees colder out at sea so please bring layers even if the forecast seems like a warm week!
- Warm, windproof and waterproof coat
- Sun cream (please use reef safe, eco products where possible)
- Sunglasses and a sun hat/cap
- Small personal first aid kit and any medication you may need
- Camera/binoculars
- Personal wash kit (please use reef safe, eco products where possible)
- Swim shoes to ensure you dodge those pesky Greek sea urchins…!
- Cash – EUROS. Greece is still a heavily cash-based society
- Charging cables for personal devices and EU 2pin adaptor for use in cabins (there are 12v USB sockets to charge devices during the day by the chart table if needed)
- A good book to read!
- Consider a small backpack/bag for onshore exploring
What’s included
- Half board (breakfast, lunch and snacks)
- All bedding (pillow, sheets & duvet)
- Full crew plus tuition
- All tender trips to and fro the boat
- Lifejacket
- Fishing lines
What’s not included
- Evening meals
- Towels
- Waterproofs
- €350 cash per person on arrival for fuel, water and marina fees
- Any flights
- Transit hotels
- Travel to and from the boat on the day of joining/leaving
- Travel Insurance
- Sailing Insurance (Please read our Sailing Insurance page for more information)
- Crew tips
- Personal expenses
Travel insurance notes
As this is an active adventure holiday, we advise that everyone has the appropriate personal accident travel insurance whilst onboard in addition to standard travel insurance which would cover you in the time between making your booking and departing for your adventure. These policies can sometimes be combined so please check with your travel insurance provider.
Please read more information on our Insurance guidelines page.
This voyage will be not more than 12miles offshore.
FAQ
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Are all meals included?
Breakfast, lunch, snacks and hot drinks are included. Dinner is not included so guests can experience the delicious local cuisine and eat in traditional Taverna's!
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Can you cater for dietary needs?
Yes - please specify at time of enquiry.
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Are there any added extra's?
Each voyage requires taking board cash for fuel, water and marina fees. Please see each voyage/ticket for details. Evening meals are not included.
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What are the sleeping arrangements?
2 x master ensuite cabins, 2 x double ensuite cabins, 1 x small double ensuite cabin.
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Is there a porthole in my cabin?
Yes, all cabins have deck hatches and portholes.
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How many toilet/showers does she have?
5
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Are bedding and towels included?
All bedding and shower towels are included but please bring swimming/beach towels Micro-fibres are a great lightweight, quick-drying alternative.
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Is there a hairdryer on board?
Yes, hairdryers are provided on board for guests to use.
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Will I be able to wash my clothes?
No, Zorba Cat does not have laundry on board.
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Is there air conditioning onboard?
Yes, in all cabins and living spaces.
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Do I need to tip the crew?
Tips are not mandatory but are welcomed by the crew!
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What language is spoken onboard?
English/Polish
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Is there WIFI?
No! It's time to disconnect from the modern conforms and reconnect with nature! When within shore range, you should be able to reach 4/5G. Please make sure you have international roaming set up on your data plan.
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Can I charge my phone?
Yes, all cabins have 220v EU sockets and USB ports.
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What is the currency on board?
Euro's.
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Are there life jackets provided?
Yes
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How do I get on and off the boat?
ZorbaCat is sometimes at anchor so you'll need to be comfortable climbing in and out of the tender dinghy. She has dropped transoms with steps and swim ladder so getting on/off the boat is fairly easy. When she's docked, there's a simple gangplank.
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Are Waterproofs provided?
No
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Do I need sailing experience?
No experience needed to join this boat.
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Does the boat have any water toys?
Some snorkel gear, 4 x SUPs and 2 x Kayaks, wakeboarding and inflatables.
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Will I be sea sick?
Everyone reacts differently, but we recommend ginger tea or ginger biscuits and peppermints on board. It will pass in 24 hours.
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Is there an age limit?
Please check with the office for under 4, but we do require a 1:1 ratio with children. There is no limit for private charters but we recommend that children can swim. No maximum age limit exists as long as guests are fit and mobile.
Gallery
imageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageTravel Planning
From: Aegina, Saronic Islands
To: Naxos, Cyclades
To see where the ports are, along with your likely sailing area, please view the sail area & highlights.
Getting There
Aegina
BY AIR
Flights go direct to Athens International airport from London Standsted with Ryanair, and London Gatwick with Wizz Air, British Airways and easyJet.
You’ll then need to take a taxi from the airport to Piraeus port and take a ferry to Aegina port, which takes about 40 minutes to 1 hour. There are many different ferry options which run throughout the day, please use Ferry Scanner to find timetables. You can pre-book tickets, or it is easy to buy a passenger ferry ticket at the port on the day.
Zorba’s crew can assist you in arranging an airport/hotel transfer to take you to the port and will arrange for a taxi at Aegina port to pick you up and take you to Perdika, where the boat will be moored. This is a lovely island with lots of places to swim and relax before you board for your charter.
Getting Home
Naxos
BY AIR
You can fly internally from Naxos to Athens International with Sky Express, to then connect you to your international flight out of Greece.
BY FERRY
Get a Blue Star ferry from Naxos to Piraeus, which is then approximately 1-hour bus ride on the X96 (airport shuttle/express) from Athens International to catch your international flight.