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FROM ATHENS TO PALERMO 

Embark on a week-long luxury cruise from charming Athens to stunning Palermo. Along the way, we’ll frolic on idyllic beaches with turquoise waters, explore volcanic landscapes, and stroll through historic city streets in some of the most sought-after destinations.

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ATHENS

  • DEPARTURE: 09:00 

  • SAILING TIME: 5 HOURS 

  • ARRIVAL: 14:00 

  • DISTANCE: 33 NM 

Our journey begins on Glyfada, just south of the city. As the epicenter of Western civilization Athens seamlessly blends its rich heritage with a modern, vibrant ambiance. There’s the iconic Acropolis housing the Parthenon, the National Archaeological Museum, and Benaki Museum alongside more contemporary boutiques, tavernas, bars, rooftop lounges, and more. Spend the day here to try out traditional dishes like moussaka and souvlaki before we set sail.

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      Corinth Canal

      • DEPARTURE: 15:00 

      • SAILING TIME: 6 HOURS 

      • ARRIVAL: 21:00 

      • DISTANCE: 42 NM 

      Experience the awe-inspiring passage through the iconic Corinth Canal on your luxurious sailing cruise. As your catamaran navigates this narrow waterway, marvel at the towering cliffs and the engineering marvel that connects the Ionian and Aegean seas. This unforgettable journey through the Corinth Canal offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

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      Galaxidi

      • DEPARTURE: 07:00 

      • SAILING TIME: 5 HOURS 

      • ARRIVAL: 12:00 

      • DISTANCE: 33 NM 

      Indulge in the charm of Galaxidi on your luxurious sailing cruise with an evening stop in this picturesque Greek town. Stroll through the quaint streets lined with traditional architecture, and savor a local dinner at a seaside tavern, where fresh, local flavors blend perfectly with the serene coastal ambiance. This enchanting experience in Galaxidi promises to be one of the highlights of this journey, offering an authentic taste of Greece's timeless beauty.

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          Patras Bridge

          • DEPARTURE: 12:00 

          • SAILING TIME: 3 HOURS 

          • ARRIVAL: 15:00 

          • DISTANCE: 20 NM 

          As part of your luxurious sailing cruise, pass beneath the awe-inspiring Patras Bridge, one of the world's largest hanging bridges, spanning an impressive 2,380 meters. Marvel at the architectural grandeur and engineering prowess as you glide underneath this monumental structure. This breathtaking moment offers a unique perspective of the bridge's scale and the stunning surrounding scenery.

          Messolonghi

          • DEPARTURE: 09:00 

          • SAILING TIME: 6 HOURS 

          • ARRIVAL: 16:00 

          • DISTANCE: 43 NM 

          During your sailing cruise, enjoy a delightful stop in Messolonghi, where you'll savor an authentic Greek dinner at a local taverna. Relish the warm hospitality and delicious flavors of traditional Greek cuisine in a charming, relaxed setting.


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              Blue Caves Zakynthos

              • DEPARTURE: 17:00 

              • SAILING TIME: 1 HOUR 

              • ARRIVAL: 18:00 

              • DISTANCE: 7 NM 

              Take a break at the stunning Blue Caves in Zakynthos during your sailing cruise. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters, surrounded by beautiful blue hues and unique rock formations. This peaceful spot is perfect for relaxing, unwinding, and soaking in the natural beauty of the Greek islands.

              Navagio Beach Zakynthos

              • DEPARTURE: 20:00 

              • SAILING TIME: 39 HOURS 

              • ARRIVAL: 11:00 

              • DISTANCE: 254 NM 

              Stop by the famous Navagio Beach on Zakynthos during your sailing adventure. Relax on the soft sands and take in the breathtaking views of the shipwreck and turquoise waters. This picturesque spot is perfect for a memorable swim and some unforgettable photo opportunities.

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                  Taormina

                  • DEPARTURE: 07:00 

                  • SAILING TIME: 4 HOURS 

                  • ARRIVAL: 11:00 

                  • DISTANCE: 30 NM 

                  Experience a day tour to Taormina, where you can choose between an exciting cable car ride or a thrilling quad adventure to explore Mount Etna. Enjoy the stunning views of the active volcano and immerse yourself in the unique landscapes. This stop promises unforgettable memories and breathtaking scenery.

                  Strait of Messina

                  • DEPARTURE: 12:00 

                  • SAILING TIME: 6 HOURS 

                  • ARRIVAL: 18:00 

                  • DISTANCE: 40 NM 

                  Sail through the historic Strait of Messina, where the Ionian and Tyrrhenian Seas meet. Witness the fascinating interplay of currents and enjoy the scenic views as you pass by.

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                      Stromboli

                      • DEPARTURE: 00:00 

                      • SAILING TIME: 8 HOURS 

                      • ARRIVAL: 08:00 

                      • DISTANCE: 45 NM 

                      Experience the awe-inspiring Stromboli volcano from the water, where you can witness its eruptions up close. Sail alongside this active volcano and marvel at its natural spectacle during sunset and at night.

                      Alicudi

                      • DEPARTURE: 20:00 

                      • SAILING TIME: 12 HOURS 

                      • ARRIVAL: 08:00 

                      • DISTANCE: 60 NM 

                      The last stop before arriving in Palermo is Alicudi, a pittoresque little island. There are neither streets nor cars here which makes this island a perfect paradise for hikers and nature enthusiasts. Take a break here and enjoy the little idyll. 

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                          Palermo

                          Palermo, the dynamic capital of Sicily, is a captivating city that’s a patchwork of history, cultural treasures, and Mediterranean charm. Immerse yourself in history and culture at the Palermo Cathedral, the Norman Palace, Palazzo Abatellis, Palazzo Mirto, and Teatro Massimo. The town center is also known for bustling markets like Ballarò and Vucciria where you can get treats like arancini and cannoli. Cap off the day by watching the gorgeous sunset at Mondello Beach.  

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                          Athens – Palermo

                          Speed NM Trip Break Cumulated Hours Date Day Daytime
                          Athens (Check-in) Friday, 4 October 2024
                          Athens Saturday, 5 October 2024 1 9.00
                          Corinth Canal 7 33 5.0 1.00 5.00  6.00 Saturday, 5 October 2024 1 14.00 15.00
                          Galaxidi 7 42 6.0 10.00 12.00 22.00 Saturday, 5 October 2024 1 21.00 7.00
                          Patras Bridge 7 33 5.0 0.00 27.00 27.00 Sunday, 6 October 2024 2 12.00 12.00
                          Messolonghi 7 20 3.0 18.00  30.00 48.00 Sunday, 6 October 2024 2 15.00 9.00
                          Blue Caves Zakynthos 7 43 6.0 2.00  54.00 56.00 Monday, 7 October 2024 3 15.00 17.00
                          Navagio Beach Zakynthos 7 7 1.0 2.00   57.00 59.00 Monday, 7 October 2024 3 18.00 20.00
                          Taormina 6.5 254 39.0 20.00  98.00 118.00 Wednesday, 9 October 2024 5 11.00 7.00
                          Strait of Messina 7 30 4.0 1.00  122.00 123.00 Thursday, 10 October 2024 6 11.00 12.00
                          Stromboli 7 40 6.0 6.00  129.00 135.00 Thursday, 10 October 2024 6 18.00 0.00
                          Alicudi 6 45 8.0 12.00  143.00 155.00 Thursday, 10 October 2024 6 8.00 20.00
                          Palermo 5 60 12.0 167.00 Friday, 11 October 2024 7 8.00
                          Palermo (Check-out) Saturday, 12 October 2024

                          Always good company

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                          1st Skipper / Captain

                          armin

                          A seasoned sailor with 25 years of experience, Armin has been at the helm of numerous transatlantic voyages. He has journeyed from Africa to South America, the British Virgin Islands to Bermuda, the Azores to the Iberian Peninsula, and Greenland to the European mainland. 

                          Armin has a wide range of sailing experience handling various vessels including a Beneteau First 35, Alubat Ovni 41, Privilege 49, and our flagship, the Lagoon 55. He is a safety-oriented skipper and always willing to share tips about sailing and navigation, and even stories of his own adventures. 

                          He is also an avid free and scuba diver, always eager to go spotting marine life when the boat drops anchor. Armin is also fluent in English, German, Spanish, and French.

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                          Chef / Hostess

                          Leticia

                          Once a typical white-collar professional, Leticia traded her typical 9 to 5 workday of staring at computer screens for a career that splits the difference between work and play.  

                          With her background in catering and event management, her valuable skills are put to good use in keeping the voyage on track and making sure that everyone on board is well fed and comfortable for the duration of the journey.  

                          Leticia is also a licensed boat skipper under the British Yachtmaster system. She is actively involved in navigation and coordinates with both captains.  

                          She is also a great conversationalist, fluent in both English and Spanish, and has advanced proficiency in both German and French.  

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                          2nd Skipper / Captain

                          FREELANCER

                          To comply with German laws and safety regulations, Armin will be accompanied by a second captain. Depending on their availability, the second skipper is handpicked from a network of freelancers and will also hold a German SHS license.

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                          Additional Crew

                          Valinor reserves the right to add more crew members to meet safety needs and other requirements for a successful cruise.

                          A TASTE OF WHAT TO EXPECT

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