boat and bike tours greece

Cyclades Bike & Boat Tour

Experience the charm of Kythnos Island with its local delicacies

Discover Syros Island’s unique architecture and natural beauty

Explore the historical richness and serene beaches of Kea Island

Revel in the mythological allure of Poros Island

Delight in Aegina’s famous pistachios and ancient sites

Relish a swim in the captivating Russian Bay

Traverse Aegina’s landscape, connecting ancient sanctuaries and monasteries

Cycle through the enchanting Cyclades and Saronic Islands

Experience the unique charm of each island on two wheels

Meet friendly locals and embrace island life

Discover hidden coves and beaches by bike

Explore ancient ruins and historical sites along your route

Revel in the picturesque beauty of Aegean villages

Begin your Greek island cycling adventure in the bustling city of Athens.

As night falls, enjoy your first overnight stay in Athens , with the anticipation of an unforgettable journey through the Cyclades and Saronic Islands.

Hotel in Athens

Begin the day with a morning sail to Kythnos Island, known for its delightful cheese and honey. Your cycling journey starts at Merichas Harbour , leading to the island’s capital, Chora.

The ride offers stunning coastal views and takes you through Chora’s picturesque streets, decorated with vibrant flowers and patterns. The route then leads to the quaint village of Driopida , before returning to Merichas. End the day by experiencing local culture and cuisine in one of Merichas’ charming tavernas.

Hotel on Kythnos Island

Sail in the morning to Seriphos, an unspoiled gem with valleys, bays, and sandy beaches. Cycle from Livadi up a winding road to the main town, Seriphos, perched high above the sea.

Continue through pristine landscapes to the Archangel Michael monastery, then return via a scenic coastal route. In the afternoon, the ship heads to Syros . Spend the evening exploring its stunning old town and relax at a cafe along the vibrant harbour promenade.

Hotel on Syros Island

Explore Ermoupolis on Syros, the Cyclades’ capital, with its unique pastel houses and classical facades. Cycle along the island’s cove-rich southern coast to Galissas Beach and pass by the convent of Saint Barbara. Return to Ermoupolis before setting sail in the afternoon to the island of Kea.

Hotel on Kea Island

Start at Korissia’s natural harbour and climb to Ioulis, Kea’s capital. Continue to Otzias Beach for a swim, then cycle back to Korissia. In the afternoon, sail to Poros in the Saronic Gulf . Enjoy Poros’ spectacular harbour and its iconic clock tower. Spend the evening soaking in the authentic Greek island atmosphere.

Hotel on Poros Island

Embark on a near-complete circumnavigation of Poros Island, once dedicated to Poseidon . The journey leads to Russian Bay, a stunning beach with turquoise waters, ideal for a relaxing swim. After returning to Poros and boarding the boat, enjoy a savoury midday meal while cruising towards Aegina.

Hotel on Aegina Island

Explore Aegina, famous for its pistachios. Cycle to the Aphaia sanctuary with panoramic sea views. Visit the well-preserved temple, then ride past the Nektarios monastery to Aegina town. Board the boat for the final return to Piraeus. The evening concludes with a communal dinner and a cosy gathering with the crew and fellow travellers.

The final day begins with breakfast, followed by check-out. This marks the end of the journey, leading to individual returns home or an extended stay in Athens for further exploration.

Not enough? Why not spend a few more days here! Extend your holidays with a pre- or post-holiday extension. Accommodation, sightseeing, and activities can be arranged. Add as many extra days to your holiday as you wish.

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Description

Journey through the Cyclades and Saronic Islands on a cycling tour that offers a rich blend of cultural exploration and scenic beauty.

Discover the unique charm of each Greek island , from the architectural wonders of Syros to the tranquil beaches of Kea.

Delight in local flavours, like Kythnos’ cheese and Aegina’s pistachios , and immerse yourself in history with visits to ancient sanctuaries and monasteries. This adventure is not just about the cycling paths but also the stories, traditions, and connections made along the way.

Enjoy evenings of relaxation and camaraderie, sharing experiences with fellow travellers under the Mediterranean sky. This tour celebrates Greek island life , offering an unforgettable experience of discovery and serenity.

Start your unique self-guided adventure with a custom itinerary crafted by our specialists to suit your preferences. This personalised journey gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, allowing for spontaneous detours and in-depth exploration.

Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with our dedicated 24/7 support , always available to assist you throughout your journey.

Start planning today!

Things to know.

Self-guided cycling tours are crafted for a personalized and flexible experience on two wheels. Discover wonders at your leisure, with the liberty to modify your route or itinerary as you wish. Our committed team meticulously takes care of all aspects, including accommodation arrangements, comprehensive planning, GPS navigation assistance, and ongoing support, to ensure a peaceful and captivating trip. This journey celebrates independence, personal discovery, and authentic cultural encounters.

Our tours are divided into three levels of difficulty: Leisurely , Moderate , and Challenging , defined by the typical daily itinerary, though there can be variations in challenge during the trip.

Leisurely tours are perfect for those looking for a relaxed journey amidst beautiful landscapes, without the need for long-distance cycling or navigating difficult terrains. Typically, these tours cover 30-50 km per day, with an elevation gain of up to 500m. This allows for numerous opportunities to enjoy the scenery, sample local cuisine, and visit quaint villages and towns along the route.

Moderate bike tours cater to those who desire a combination of picturesque routes and a bit of a challenge. Covering 50-80 km per day with an elevation gain of up to 1000m, these tours take you through beautiful landscapes and charming villages, featuring both flat and hilly terrains. They provide plenty of chances for exploration and also offer a rewarding cycling experience.

Challenging bike tours are designed for seasoned cyclists looking to challenge themselves. These tours cover 80-120 km daily with an elevation gain of up to 2000m and involve steep climbs and challenging routes. Suitable for those with a high level of fitness and stamina, they offer a sense of achievement and stunning views, making the effort worthwhile.

We are dedicated to finding the ideal match for your cycling journey. We work closely with a range of accommodation providers, all of whom adhere to our quality criteria, though their availability might change, particularly during high-demand seasons. Moreover, we offer the flexibility to customize your trip according to your personal tastes and budget, guaranteeing that we find the accommodation that best suits your needs.

We recommend booking your tour as soon as possible, particularly for sought-after tourist destinations where accommodation options are limited. Top choices tend to be reserved quickly, often getting fully booked for the summer season well before the arrival of spring.

The optimal cycling season in Greece extends from mid-April to mid-October. In higher elevation areas, such as the mountainous regions, it’s best to plan your cycling trips from mid-May to September.

Tours in Greece are feasible in light rain, provided you have suitable attire. Summer often brings afternoon thunderstorms, so starting your tours early in the day is advisable. Should challenging weather conditions be anticipated, we will endeavour to adapt the tour schedule accordingly.

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Hassle-free, completely customizable, book with confidence, unbeatable support, similar bike tours in greece.

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Our boat bike tours in Greece

Visit the beautiful west coast of Greece

Famous islands of Ithaca, Lefkas & Paxos

Home of gods and empresses

Motor yacht with max. 20 passengers

• Guided cycling: A tour leader will guide you during the cycling days
• Independent cycling: No tour leader, the ships’ crew does daily briefing, independent cycling
• Level 1: easy tours, very flat terrain
• Level 2: quite easy tours, mostly flat terrain
• Level 3: requires a higher level of exertion, medium hilly terrain
• Level 4: for experienced cyclists, hilly terrain with climbs

Boat bike tours Greece — island hopping cycle cruises

Our boat bike tours in Greece require very little explanation; guests board the wooden motor yacht Panagiota and set sail for eight days of relaxed cycle and cruise exploration in the stunning Ionian Islands. This region of spectacular scenery off the west coast of Greece is not only famous for the crystalline waters of the Ionian Sea, idyllic beaches and lush vegetation — the names of its famous islands like Ithaca, Paxos & Lefkas are also imbued with tales of Greek gods and goddesses, Homer’s Odyssey and inexhaustible history.

Cycle the Ionian Islands and sleep on the Ionian Sea

Your trip through the splendor of this Greek archipelago begins in Corfu, where you’ll board the wonderfully-restored two-masted motor yacht Panagiota , which is equipped with a spacious sun deck, a comfortable saloon and even a swim ladder for easy sea access. Enjoy your first taste of delicious Greek cuisine from our talented chef, and have a sound sleep before your boat bike tour Greece departs for the Ionian Archipelago.

The cycle touring on this fully-guided trip touches on the Greek mainland for the grand Venetian Fortress of Parga; the charming villages, bays, birdlife and cliffs of Lefkas Island (also known as Lefkada), Cephalonia (Kefalonia) Island’s lively promenades and mountain roads; the beautiful hilly landscapes of Ithaca, homeland of the mythical king Odysseus; and even more heritage, swimming spots and panoramas on the islands of Meganisi and Paxos.

Boat bike tours through Greece’s islands, to & from Corfu

At the start and end of your unforgettable cycle cruise through the Ionian Sea and the waters of the Mediterranean, you’ll have free time on the popular Greek island of Corfu — and we recommend planning in a few extra days here outside of your tour. Why? For a start, the Corfu Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with British, French and Venetian influence — its jewels include the Old Fortress, Royal Palace and Liston Square — and the white marble Achillion Palace of the famous Austrian Empress Sisi is close by.Nature lovers will also find plenty to enjoy on Corfu Island and, of course, you can also visit a site from the original Greek boat epic — Pondikonissi Island, the final destination of Odyssey’s journey. Plenty of reasons to dream about boat bike tours in Greece !

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Bike 'n boat cycling tours join a bike tour in the greek islands and combine cycling with cruising or sailing. self-guided or guided, the choice is yours.

Cyclades & Saronic Islands

Dive into Greece's route to Liberation through a ramble around its historical islands.

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Greek Islands Cycling tour in the Cyclades

Explore the unique Cyclades by bike. Create your own personalized schedule using the ferry.

Islandhopping – Boat & Bike Ionian Islands

Odysseus’ Homeland from/to Corfu

Peloponnese & Saronic Islands

Mythical Peloponnese & Saronic Gulf

Sailing and Cycling Greek islands(Private Tour)

A fantastic private tour to sail and bike the Greek islands!

The Gulf of Corinth and the Ionian Islands

Islandhopping - The Gulf of Corinth and the Ionian Islands By boat & bike from Athens/to Corfu

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Cycle into ancient history

Greece bike tours.

Greece is a colorful land, bursting with culture and beauty. Bordered by the Aegean, Ionian and Mediterranean seas, its uniquely rich history is etched in every corner, including archaeological remnants of ancient Greek civilization.

Cyclists adore the sunny weather and low humidity for year-round activity. The mountains and hills of Greece are prime topographies for mountain biking and moderate road cycling.

Visit at least one of Greece’s 6,000 islands, which are destination central for many biking and boat tours. Vibrant architecture, delicious cuisine and stunning waters make this a prime cycling destination.

“We were drawn into the sumptuous landscape of the Peloponnese from the first kilometers of our ride around Tripoli, as were taken intimately through a wonderful and beautiful landscape.”

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Aegean Discovery: Cycling through Eastern Crete

COUNTRY: Greece

Self guided from EUR € 960

Self-guided: Saturdays: Apr 6 - Jun 8; Sep 14 - Oct 26, 2024

Description: Welcome to the ultimate journey through Crete, a captivating blend of history, nature, and laid-back charm. Starting in Heraklion, the island's buzzing capital, you'll cycle along scenic paths from the coast to the mountains, stopping to explore…

Cultural Splendors of the Peloponnese and Saronic Isles E-bike and Boat

Guided from EUR € 2790

Guided: Mar 29*; Apr 5*, 12; Jun 28; Jul 5, 12, 19, 26; Aug 2, 9, 16; Oct 04, 11, 18, 2024

Description: Embark on an extraordinary journey through Greece, where innumerable cultural treasures await. Travel the Peloponnese and Saronic Islands by e-bike and boat, exploring the immaculate coastlines, charming town centers, and the alluring Aegean Sea. Your…

Enchanting Cyclades and Saronic Islands

Guided: Apr 19, 26; May 03, 10*, 17, 31*; Jun 7, 14; Aug 23, 30*; Sep 6*, 13*, 2024. (*indicates fully booked)

Description: The Cyclades and Saronic Islands are a group of over 30 stunning Greek islands in the Aegean Sea, boasting ancient Greek architecture, picturesque towns, and breathtaking beaches. With a sumptuous blend of history and natural beauty, these islands offer…

Greece: The Peloponnese Peninsula

Self guided from EUR € 840

Self-guided: Saturdays: Apr 6 - Oct 26, 2024.

Description: This is a fascinating bike trip for the admirers of Greek Archaeology and cultural experiences. It is unique as you start biking high in the mountains but end up cycling next to the sea for a couple of days. It combines the magnificent fir trees of…

Ionian Islands Multi-sport Family Cruise

Guided from EUR € 1890

Guided: Jul 26; Aug 2, 9, 2024.

Description: This multi-adventure cruise takes you to the Ionian Islands that spread along the western coast of Greece. Here, we see Hellas at its greenest. Aboard the Panagiota, a two-masted wooden motor sailer, this bike-and-boat tour takes us from Corfu to the…

Sparta and the Mediterranean Coast

Description: Explore the beautiful southeast part of Peloponnese, Laconia, with a bike trip that combines the golden Greek beaches with Greek history and culture. Beginning from the famous military city-state of the ancient world, Sparta, you will head south and pass…

Athens Acropolis Bike Tour

Athens · from €69 EUR

Description: For an all-encompassing adventure around Athens, taking in the most famous sightseeing spots of the city, and with a guided tour of the Acropolis, look no further than the Athens Acropolis Bike Tour! There’s no better, more efficient way to absorb the…

Athens Highlights Bike Tour

Athens · from €36 EUR

Description: For an all-encompassing adventure around Athens, taking in the most famous sightseeing spots of the city, look no further than the Athens Highlights Bike Tour! There’s no better, more efficient way to absorb the history and atmosphere of Athens than by…

Athens Highlights E-Bike Tour

Athens · from €46 EUR

Description: For an all-encompassing adventure around Athens, taking in the most famous sightseeing spots of the city, look no further than the Athens Highlights E-Bike Tour! There’s no better, more efficient way to absorb the history and atmosphere of Athens than by…

Athens Private Bike Tour

Athens · from €65 EUR

Description: For an all-encompassing adventure around Athens, taking in the most famous sightseeing spots of the city, look no further than the Athens Private Bike Tour! There’s no better, more efficient way to absorb the history and atmosphere of Athens than by…

Athens Sunset E-Bike Tour

Athens · from €45 EUR

Description: Explore Athens at its most exquisite - when the sun is descending behind the Acropolis, and the city is ablaze in the golden evening glow. Visit landmarks tinged with the last of the day’s sunrays, whilst a warm evening breeze blows through the columns…

Kefalonia Ainos Mountain Bike Tour

Kefalonia · from €60 EUR

Description: For an exhilarating bike tour of Mount Ainos with the added benefit of bike rental, look no further. Located 30km from Argostoli and the tallest mountain in Kefalonia, Mount Ainos is known locally as Monte Nero, or “Black Mountain”. It earned…

Kefalonia Bike Tour through Erissos, Assos & Myrtos

Kefalonia · from €55 EUR

Description: If you’ve come to Kefalonia for phenomenal viewpoints, authentic Greek charm, and beautiful beaches, this is the bicycle tour for you! The option for bike rental is an added bonus. Beginning on the sun-warmed shores of Agia Efimia, you’ll cycle up to the…

Rhodes E-Bike & Snorkeling Tour

Rhodes · from €65 EUR

Description: For an unbeatable combined e-bike tour and snorkeling experience in Rhodes, look no further than this city and sea exploration in a sun-scorched paradise! In 4.5 hours, this guided day tour takes in the highlights of Rhodes, including St. John’s Gate…

Rhodes Sunshine or Sunset E-Bike Tour

Rhodes · from €45 EUR

Description: Ride through Rhodes in glorious Greek sunshine or in the glamorous golden hours on the Rhodes Sunshine or Sunset E-Bike Tour! In just 2.5 hours, your guided day tour will take in the highlights and hidden gems of this ancient city, including the Old Town…

Sami Geopark Kefalonia Bike Tour

Description: Explore the stunning Sami Geopark on a guided bicycle tour, one of Kefalonia’s crowning glories, with the added benefit of bike rental! Beginning in the town square of Sami, your bike tour takes you traveling along a coast-to-coast road towards…

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Boat and Bike non-Touristy Greek Islands

Explore non-Touristy Greek Islands by Boat and Bike and enjoy an authentic experience!

With popular travel destinations so crowded these days, why not consider an active boat and bike holiday exploring beautiful Greek islands less visited by tourists!  You’ll enjoy a much more authentic experience away from the crowds and see Greece the way you’ve always imagined it.

I took a BoatBikeTours.com week long boat and bike tour of the Cyclades and Saronic Greek Islands with my sister, Terry.  In today’s episode, I share what we saw and did ( and ATE!!! ) so you can see if this tour is the right vacation for you.

Some of the benefits of a boat and bike tour is that you only unpack once , as each day, your magnificent small group ship sails from island to island.  Also, it is not only affordable , but almost all inclusive, so you have a good idea of how much your holiday will cost.

Lodging (in a comfortable en suite cabin on your ship) is included, as are most meals plus your tour guides.  So you really just pay for transportation to and from the starting point, any alcohol and incidentals, maybe a couple of meals plus guide tips.

This was my second BoatBikeTour.com tour ( check out my Croatia trip HERE .)  After my Croatia trip, I was so impressed, I reached out to BBT to get them on the ATA team.

SAVE!!!   Now BBT is one of my ATA affiliates, so you can save 50 Euro per booking using my exclusive BoatBikeTours Promo Code ATA50 !  This discount code is good for any BoatBikeTour throughout Europe.

How a Boat and Bike Tour Works

Generally you start and end your tour at an easy departure point.  For this tour, I flew into Athens, Greece and simply took a bus to the port to join my group and ship.  For Croatia, I flew into Split and then departed from Dubrovnik, so check the itinerary to see if your boat and bike tour is one direction or circular, like my Cyclades and Saronic Greek Island week long tour.

We island hopped each day, with the Captain modifying the itinerary to take advantage of weather conditions.  Since our first two days were going to be windy, he simply reversed our itinerary so that we would have a more pleasant experience.    The Captain and your tour guides goal is to provide the most enjoyable experience possible and they have many Plan B, C and D’s so that they can adapt according to conditions.

Most days, we would sail to a port, and then take a leisurely ride around scenic landscapes, often cliimbing hills so that we could get a panoramic view of the harbor and coastline below.  We would stop and explore charming villages, hardly ever seeing other tourists (and on some islands, rarely even seeing locals!).

When to Visit Greece

Like most places, spring and fall is the best time to visit.  The weather is the most pleasant and crowds everywhere are down ( important for when you take time to see Athens – see below ).  Summer, is obviously hotter, but also a popular time to visit Greece.  Since Greece’s economy is so tourist dependant, avoid visiting during winter as many restaurants and businesses close for the season so you won’t get to enjoy the same vibe.

Who is this Boat and Bike Tour Good For

My Cyclades and Saronic Greek Island boat and bike tour had twelve guests, from all over the world.  The average age was close to 60.  All but one spoke English (in addition to his or her native language).  The guides speak English and German.

We were all reasonably fit, but only a couple were heavy duty bikers.  It was a lovely group of fun, outgoing folks who seek adventure as they explore the world.

How Hard is the Greek Island Hopping Boat and Bike Tour

That depends on whether you rent a manual bike or rent an eBike.  You can also bring your own bike.  Just note your preference at booking.

If you are using an eBike, which I recommend for this Greek tour, I would rank it a 2.5 out of 5 for difficulty.  Since you control how much ‘oomph’ your bike assists you, you can make it an easy 2, or a much harder 4, if you rarely use assistance from the battery.

However, if you use a manual bike, I would rank it a 4 or 4.5, as these Greek islands are quite hilly and mountainous, and there are many long, high ascents.  The rental bikes have multiple gears, so it is doable, but it is definitely challenging.

In our group, five chose to ride manual bikes, but only two never borrowed an eBike for partial respite.  Unless you are a hard core mountain biker, rent the eBike so you have options.

If you tell BBT, you can borrow a (mandatory) helmet, or you can bring your own, as you choose.  You can also bring your own bike.

Typical Boat and Bike Tour Day

We normally had a delicious, leisurely full breakfast around 8am.  Then we would sail to our next (usually close by) island.  At breakfast, our guides would brief us on our day’s itinerary.

When we arrived, the guides unloaded our bikes, we donned our helmets and set off, with a guide in the front and back, available for assistance and to make sure we never got lost.  At intersections where we turned, a rider would be posted so everyone knew which way to go.

We road on rural roads rarely used by cars.  Our guides took us around the islands to showcase each islands unique offerings.  We would stop to enjoy a cappuchino, or to explore a charming village or temple ruin.  Sometimes we would stop for lunch, but we generally ate most meals on board ( NOTE:  ALL food was ample and delicious!!!).

After biking several hours, we would work our way back to the port and the guides would load up our bikes.  Sometimes we stayed in the port so people could wander the harbor shops and restaurants.  Other times, we sailed on, often stopping in a protected cove so we could take a swim.

Leisure time was also spent sunning on the ample deck on comfortable lounges, reading in the sun or shade areas, or just chatting and getting to know your fellow travelers, most of whom were very well traveled with lots of fun stories to share.

Dinner was on our covered deck, and was always a work of art, and quite tasty.  Alcoholic beverages are extra.  There is a full bar on board, and prices were reasonable.  After dinner, people often shared a nightcap or retired to read and relax, to rest up for the next day.

What Do You See on a Greek Island Boat and Bike Tour

You will be biking through rural areas, so you’ll see tons of olive trees, vineyards, bee hives, fig trees, wildflowers, wild herbs and even a old windmill or two!  Often, you will see cool rock formations, beautiful seaside cliffs and shorelines.

You will also visit white washed ancient villages, with their typical blue painted trim.  Homes are traditionally whitewashed each year, right before Easter.  The lime wash is a disinfectant, and the blue trim is to ‘trick the insects’ and to keep them from entering the house.  Never figured out how come:)  Stoops and steps are gayly decorated with colorful flower pots, and bougainvilla climbs heroically up walls, that might also be dotted with an opportunistic caper.

Greece eats what it produces, so you basically ride by your next meal.

Most homes are whitewashed and trimmed out in cobalt blue.  It was rare to see a variant, like this mustard-trimmed home.

Methano Island Rock Formations

Some of the most interesting rock formations we saw was on the island of Methano.  People built homes directly under overhanging rocks and by ruble that looked like it was a breath away from collapsing.  

Explore Athens Before or After your Boat and Bike Tour

Try to allow at least three days to explore beautiful Athens !   To get the most out of your visit, I recommend taking a guided tour so you know what you are looking at.  I used (my now) affiliate City Experiences and took their half day “Best of Athens” tour.

Plan your Greece and Athens visit HERE .

Not only did I get a fantastic guided tour of Athen’s highlights, but we skipped the line on attractions (entrance fees included with the booking).  Plus, we got several other admissions with the 3 Day Pass they gave us!  I love how our guide showed us illustrations of the ruins so we could understand what they once looked like and how they were used.  He also regaled us with Greek myths to add fun and insight to our tour.  A top shelf tour company!

City Experiences offers both cultural AND food tours in major cities around the world!  I try to take at least one of each whenever I visit a new city.

Check out the new ATA City Destinations Travel Planners HERE !

Links Mentioned on this Podcast:

Costa Rica hiking podcast

Peru and Machu Picchu podcast

Adventure Travel Training

City Experiences – Athens (and other city tours)

Trailblazer Wellness – Custom online personal training (free phone consult).  Mention ATA for 10% OFF!

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Greek Islands Bike & Boat

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Suggested extensions, trip highlights.

• Cycling in the Cyclade and Saronic islands with dramatic scenery
• Exploring the small towns and villages en route
• Swimming and snorkeling in the azure waters of Kea and Poros islands
• Soaking up the hospitality onboard the comfortable gulet

In the South Aegean off mainland Greece is a group of more than 30 islands known as the Cyclades, whilst closer to Athens are the Saronic Islands, dripping in history. Whitewashed houses with blue shutters, a labyrinth of narrow streets flowing through cobblestoned villages, sandy beaches and a relaxed island lifestyle attract visitors from all over the globe. Taking in these obvious attractions, this cruising and cycling adventure delves further into the interior and coastlines, exploring little known coves and impressive geological formations, ancient sites and untouched villages. Cruising from island to island, we'll spend plenty of time ashore exploring fishing villages and historic sites by bike or just relaxing on the secluded beaches far away from the busy resorts and enjoying authentic Greek hospitality.

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• Primary Itinerary
• 3 day extension - Athens

Expand all | Collapse all

Day 1 Board boat at the port in Athens

Day 2 explore kythnos island (25km/15mi).

Meals:   B,L

Day 3 Cruise to Seriphos, round cycle to the Byzantine monastery, cruise to Syros (28km/17mi)

Day 4 explore syros by bike then cruise to kea (34km/21mi), day 5 cycle to the white sand otzias beach and return to korissia, cruise to poros (25km/15mi), day 6 explore poros island by bike before returning to the boat (23km/14mi), day 7 cycle on aegina island to the sanctuary of aphaia, return to athens (35km/22mi).

Meals:   B,D

Day 8 Trip concludes

Day 1 arrive athens.

Meals:   Nil

Day 2 Explore Athens

Day 3 to the boat (or transfer to the airport if post tour), what's included.

• 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches*, 2 dinners (does not include drinks). The cook on board is a member of the crew and prepares the meals. *Note that the included lunches and dinners are not clearly labelled on the daily itinerary as they depend on sailing conditions on the day and from time to time we may substitute one of the lunches for a dinner or vice versa, your tour guide will inform you locally when these will be included.
• 7 nights accommodation in a double cabin below deck with private bathroom (supplement applies for single use of a double cabin). If you are travelling by yourself you can pay the single supplement (limited no. of cabins) or if you are willing to share, can be matched with another passenger of the same sex (where available). The compact cabins have a double bed or a twin beds.
• E-Bikes rental or if you prefer, 21 speed trekking bike with pannier (advise at time of booking if you prefer a hybrid bike). The guides will carry bike locks for the group when cycling, or individual locks can be provided on request if you decide to bike alone (limited supply).
• 6 guided cycling tours on the different islands
• Experienced crew including English speaking tour guide
• Bed linen and towels
• Entries to museums and archeological sites for group visits
• Overview maps for daily cycle tours
• Free wifi on board
• Emergency hotline
• Bottled water on board and during all activities ashore

What's not included

• Travel to and from Athens
• A group or private transfer from the airport or your hotel in Athens to the boat on embarkation and disembarkation days is available - reservation on request and a supplement applies, ask our office for details
• Single cabin – supplement applies, please ask our office for details
• Meals not listed as included, drinks (except bottled water onboard)
• Items of a personal nature
• Tips for the guide and crew
• Travel insurance - mandatory *cruise cover may be required - check with your insurer
• Helmets - mandatory on all bike tours, you are encouraged to bring your own well-fitted helmet. A limited number of rental helmets are available on board (reservation essential), however we cannot guarantee their suitability.
• Optional bicyle insurance - payable in cash locally. EUR10 per person for trekking bike, EUR20 per person for electric bike. Please note that normal travel insurance often does not cover loss or damage to rental bikes. If you do not take out bike insurance you will need to pay for the cost of the bike or repair of damages.
• Beach towel for shore use (if required)
• Athens 3 day extension - see itinerary 2

The Thalassa offers nine guest cabins, all of which are situated below deck in compliance with the traditional boats form of the Turkish gulets. The teak furnishings are high class and elegant. Each cabin includes individually regulated A/C as well as an ensuite with separate shower cabin and toilet.

Double / Triple / Twin Cabin

The cabins are clad in fine wood while the saloon offers a warm and cosy atmosphere creating a homely ambience onboard. Each of the six guest cabins below deck offers ample space, en-suite bathrooms with a shower and WC, as well as storage for your luggage.at every meal.

Cabin size: 10 - 12 m²

Cabin features: Air-conditioning, tiled bathroom with hairdryer, mirror, shower cabin, washbasin & WC

Beds: double 200 x 140 cm

single and twin: 200 x 80 cm

Service: Daily cabin service, mid-week towel and bedding change

Bike information

Electric bike.

During the tour, you will be provided with an Electric or E-bike. These bikes are designed to make cycling easier. The pedalling ‘boost’ provided by an e-bike opens up more options, allowing people of different fitness levels to cycle together or to allow less fit cyclists to take on routes that they may otherwise consider too tough for their current capability. You will be provided with a pannier to carry your gear during the day. The bikes do not have water bottle holders. Helmets are not supplied but are mandatory on all bike tours - you are encouraged to bring your own well-fitted helmet. A limited number of rental helmets are available on board (reservation essential), however we cannot guarantee their suitability. Please note that the minimum height is 1.50m (5 ft.) for the e-bikes.

Hybrid Bike

You have the option to hire a 24-gear hybrid bike with hand brakes (discount applies). You will be provided with a pannier to carry your gear during the day. The bikes do not have water bottle holders. Helmets are not supplied but are mandatory on all bike tours - you are encouraged to bring your own well-fitted helmet. A limited number of rental helmets are available on board (reservation essential), however we cannot guarantee their suitability. Please note that the minimum height for a rental bike is 1.30 m (4.3 ft.) for hybrid bikes.

moderate   

This is an e-bike tour. For cyclists using hybrid bikes we recommend that you are fit and comfortably able to cycle around 20kmph on the flat and 10kmph on the ascents. There are some longer climbs; however, you are welcome to take breaks or push your bike if necessary. If you are unsure we recommend an e-bike. Even for e-bikers, the trip requires a good level of fitness from participants to fully participate in the cycling, which you should have acquired from steady cycling. The tours are approx. 23-35 km / 14.3-21.7 mi and 350-700m / 1148-2296ft elevation per day. The riding pace is determined by the cyclists on e-bikes. Guests who are taking part on a regular bicycle should have the necessary physical condition to keep up with this pace. The route traverses mostly asphalted roads, which are rarely travelled on outside of the holiday seasons. You are free to set aside a half or full day to swim or spend on board the boat, instead of taking a planned bike-tour. Each day you can either decide to bike alone, using the information and maps provided, or join the tour guides. It is considered suitable for fit beginners and active children (minimum 10years, minimum height 1.5m/5ft for e-bike). *For safety reasons, we insist that cycle helmets be included as a compulsory item on your equipment list.

Per Person, Twin Share

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We offer different levels of accommodation and comfort so that even the most budget conscious can treat themselves to active holidays on Europe's most celebrated tracks and trails. Our trips are great value for money because you only pay for what you want.  

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Our wide range of self-guided itineraries embody the UTracks philosophy of exploring Europe your way. We handle the logistics so all that's left for you to do is enjoy exploring Europe at your own pace. Most depart daily with a minimum of two people, meaning maximum flexibility.

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With close to 400 trips in almost 50 countries, including the largest range of bike & boat holidays in Europe, we're confident that we can organise an Alps walk, Camino de Santiago or Via Francigena experience, Food Lovers' trip or a tour in a lesser-known pocket of Europe that you will love. 

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Islandhopping by boat & bike

Discover the most beautiful islands in the world - our floating hotel accompanies you.

All cycling Tours

Islandhopping by bike & boat

Discover the most beautiful islands in the mediterranean, northern europe and far east.

All Destinations

Discover the most beautiful islands in the world - by hybrid bike, mtb, e-bike or road bike

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Discover the most beautiful islands in the world - by tall ships, cozy motor yachts and deluxe boats

Discover the most beautiful islands in the world by hybrid bike, mtb, e-bike or road bike..

Which tour are you looking for? Hybrid Bike Tours E-Bike Tours MTB Tours Family Tours Road Bike Tours Which tour are you looking for? Hybrid Bike Tours E-Bike Tours MTB Tours Family Tours Road Bike Tours Where do you want to go? Croatia Greece Turkey Italy Albania Netherlands Scandinavia Scotland Vietnam South Africa Patagonia Where do you want to go? Croatia Greece Turkey Italy Albania Netherlands Scandinavia Scotland Vietnam South Africa Patagonia What month? February March April May June July August September October November December What month? February March April May June July August September October November December

Activity and Relaxation

Bike + Boat tour in one - equally sporty + enjoyable

Adventure with Comfort

Our floating hotel - the perfect travel companion

Experience Culture from the Source

Truly get to know your chosen destination

Carefree Travel with Two Guides

Two pairs of helping hands gives twice the support

Enjoy Freedom - Decide for Yourself!

Whether choosing to cycle or stay on board

A Winning Combination: Boat and Bike

For over a quarter century we have been exploring the world's most beautiful islands and coasts by bike and boat! Whether in Croatia , Greece , Turkey , Italy , Scotland , Scandinavia , Holland , or Vietnam , Island hopping has an abundance on offer!

The secret ingredient: You stay overnight on a boat and enjoy all the advantages of a traveling accommodation. This way you can hop from island to island without the hassle of packing your suitcase. After a strenuous bike tour, your floating home is already waiting for you in the next port. It is quite common to smell the freshly prepared food from the galley upon arrival. And could there be anything more enjoyable than dropping anchor and swimming break in a postcard-like bay?

On all of our bike tours you are accompanied by our competent guides, who not only lead you safely to the most remote corners of all islands, but also share interesting facts about the host country and its inhabitants. Decide for yourself whether you want to travel more casually by bike or e-bike or more actively by mountain or road bike.

Our travel tips for explorers

A suitable tour for every cycling fan.

What our Guests Have to Say

Trip was excellent. Staff were kind, thoughtful, and accommodating. Guides were knowledgeable and patient. Cycling routes were well thought out. Safety was paramount. I might have reconsidered if I had known how challenging the rides would be, or opted for an ebike. I think that was not clearly evident on the information, so the level of cycling should be particularly highlighted.

This is our 3rd trip with Island Hopping and it was the best we experience. The ship was in beautiful condition, all of the staff were cheerful, helpful and accomodating and our Guides were easy going, informative and very organized. We have high praise for ** and *** who absolutely made the trip a perfect vacation. They are the best team.

Very friendly and knowledgeable Guides. Friendly crew. Great food on the boat and also lovely lunches organized by guide. Plenty of time to swim and relax. Altogether a fun holiday. My fourth or fifth trip with Inselhuepfen. Always well organized.

A fantastic way to see Croatia! The ship and crew were great and the guides absolutely fantastic. Island Hopping have also been extremely flexible and helpful when our plans were in doubt due to Covid-19. It's great to see a holiday company who are helping their customers through this tricky period and this would give us the confidence to book with them again in the future.

I highly recommend booking through Island Hopping. Communication, especially during these challenging times with coronavirus, was excellent. The itinerary provided was very detailed and provided more than enough information. The guides were extremely knowledgeable and kept us safe on the roads. They were also just a lot of fun to hang out with. I could not have asked for a more pleasurable trip - just the right amount of exercise and relaxation. Also, the food was top notch - way more delectable …

Staying on Osman Kurt is the most relaxing holyday I can imagine. Overnighting in a peaceful bay, swimming in the blue sea and enjoying the sun and wind while sailing. Mointain biking in the beautiful surroundings of Gulf of Gökova was a great experience. The crew on Osman Kurt took good care of us and we enjoyed the delicious Turkish cuisine everday. Our guides,*** were just fantastic! Great experience, great holyday :-)

Excellent trip!! The guides were absolutely superb. The organisation was faultless. Will definitely travel again.

**** was fantastic - professional, always in a good mood, entertaining in his descriptions, knowledgeable. We could not have asked for a better guide. As for the tour, everything ran very smoothly. Well planned, interesting stops and sites, we coordinated. The restaurants were well chosen, often too much food, but it was all very tasty. I enjoyed all the bike routes except the very last one was not interesting, I think this could be improved upon. I will tour with island hopping again.

Absolutely fantastic two weeks in Vietnam! Seamless organisation, amazing guides, lovely accommodation and wonderful people and country. Could not recommend enough. We went with the same company to Croatia a few years earlier and was also fabulous!

Our Travel Destinations

Islandhopping takes you by Bike & Boat or Hotel & Bike to the most beautiful islands and coastal regions all around the world where you will get to know the heart and soul of a country in a totally unique way!

Explore All Destinations

Our Islandhopping fleet, with enthusiastic cyclists on board, cruises mainly in the Mediterranean and the Baltic Sea.  The ships are as varied as the expectations and wishes of our guests.

Explore All Ships

We proudly present: The MS Panagiota

Discover a world of GREEN and BLUE onboard the Panagiota

For many years, Islandhoppers have been experiencing the wonderous Greek island world on land and sea with the delightful motor sailer Panagiota. The cosy wooden ship instils a warm, feel-good atmosphere while the experienced crew never fails to impress their Islandhopping guests with their traditional Greek hospitality.

The Panagiota cruises through the archipelago of the Ionian Islands starting from Corfu. This is a magical world of evergreen islands, crystal-clear seas shimmering in a hundred shades of blue, and breathtakingly beautiful beaches. Panoramic bike tours round off an extraordinary island hopping experience in Greece.

Everything about the Ship

Intriguing Reads Our Latest Blogs and News

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What to do at the world's most beautiful lakes

From swimming to standup paddleboarding, boating to biking, here’s how to have the ultimate adventure on and around nine of world’s most beautiful lakes.

Boosted by a growing awareness of the mental and physical health benefits of wild swimming, lakeside adventures have captured the imaginations of people keen to take the plunge. From glacial Alpine tarns to tropical jungle-wreathed lagoons, lakes can boost moods, reconnect us with the elements and help us to press the reset button. They also offer a wealth of options for intrepid travellers. Whether it’s canoeing across a mountain-clasped lake in Canada’s Rocky Mountains, diving down to a ghostly petrified forest in Kazakhstan, fishing in Finland’s Lakeland as ospreys soar overhead or hiking up to the world’s clearest lake in New Zealand, these activities and excursions promise adventure while simultaneously soothing the soul.

1. Lake Louise, Canada Best for: canoeing

For a taste of Canadian wilderness, few places rival Banff National Park in the Rocky Mountains, where grizzly bears amble through pine and spruce forests, mountains loom overhead and jewel-like lakes dot the landscape — the most scenic of which must be Lake Louise. Hemmed in by rugged, snow-cloaked mountains, this glacier lake sits at 5,200ft, just below Mount Victoria and right on Alberta’s border with British Columbia.

While you can admire the lake’s brilliance from its shores, you’ll get a wholly different perspective by grabbing a paddle and canoeing in silent wonder across its waters, your gaze forced upwards to the parade of towering peaks and pearly shimmer of the hanging Victoria Glacier. The startling azure colour of the water can be attributed to light reflecting off small particles of ‘rock flour’ (glacial silt) carried down from glaciers above.

2. Blue Cave, Greece Best for: subterranean boating

Carved over time by the erosive force of the sea, the entrance to the Blue Cave, near the tiny island of Kastellorizo in the Dodecanese, appears almost concealed until one enters its confines. The roof collapsed thousands of years ago following an earthquake, and now when the sun is low, light filtering through the ceiling gives the chamber an otherworldly quality, with intense blue hues reminiscent of an Yves Klein painting. With passengers ducking or lying flat on their backs, tiny boats navigate narrow passages in the rock before a vast chamber reveals itself, its roof reaching heights of 115ft.

On hot summer days, the opportunity to swim beneath the cave’s stalactites provides a refreshing escape from the heat. Near the coast of Turkey, the island of Kastellorizo is remote and peaceful, home only to a scattering of dwellings and a few characterful harbourside tavernas.

3. Lake Atitlán, Guatemala Best for: hiking

With volcanoes, waterfall-filled tropical forests and richly cultured Maya villages hugging its shores, Lake Atitlán in Guatemala’s southwestern highlands is a hiker’s paradise. Measuring 1,120ft at its deepest point, the lake fills the crater of an enormous volcano that blew its top around 85,000 years ago.

The three volcanoes that guard its shores are ideal for trekking enthusiasts, and the oldest, San Pedro, last erupted around 40,000 years ago. The route to its summit is a five-and-a-half-hour hike that passes coffee plantations and avocado farms to enter cool cloud forest alive with exotic birds like the endangered horned guan. More challenging still is Volcán Tolimán, an ascent of 10,361ft that involves starting at dawn and trekking up forested slopes to a shallow crater and the remains of ancient lava flows.

Hardest of them all, however, is 11,598ft-high Volcán Atitlán, one of Guatemala’s most extreme hikes up steep, rugged terrain. The rewards are worth the climb: glimpses of rare birds like the electric blue-green quetzal and phenomenal summit views over Lake Atitlán and a ripple of volcanoes to the Pacific Ocean glimmering in the distance.

4. Lake Kaindy, Kazakhstan Best for: diving

A drop of turquoise in Kazakhstan’s snow-capped Tian Shan mountains, Lake Kaindy requires an off-road adventure to reach, but it’s worth braving the bumpy ride from the village of Saty, a 35-minute drive away. This 1,300ft-long, 98ft-deep lake was created by a huge earthquake in 1912 that triggered a limestone landslide and formed a natural dam. Fed by a glacial river, this lesser-known star of the Kolsai Lakes National Park looks like something from a Tolkien fantasy. The slender trunks of a submerged Picea schrenkiana (Asian spruce) forest rise from its depths to spear the flawless blue sky.

Under the water, it gets more otherworldy still. The frigid, oxygen-rich water has frozen the trees in time, protecting them from decay, while branches swathed in thick curtains of algae create an underwater labyrinth so ghostly locals often refer to it as ‘dead lake’. Due to its altitude and the depth of the water, with divers descending to around 30ft, this is a realm for experts only. While swims are tempting, given the temperature, it’s likely to be a quick plunge: temperatures get to a maximum of 6C even in the summer. In winter, meanwhile, the lake ices over entirely.

5. Lake Päijänne, Finland Best for: fishing

Finland, viewed from above, resembles a tapestry woven from forests and lakes. With almost 190,000 lakes scattered across the country, it’s almost impossible to explore without encountering these sprawling bodies of water. Among them, Lake Päijänne stands out as the second-largest, resembling a fjord nestled within the expansive Finnish Lakeland. Located at the heart of the national park that shares its name, Lake Päijänne stretches for around 80 miles, its waters bordered by ancient spruce, pine and silver birch forests; speckled with islets and sandy esker islands, shaped during the last Ice Age. When the midnight sun burns, Finns come to slip back to nature in lakefront cabins or pitch tents on remote stretches of shoreline.

Birds like herons, ospreys and lesser black-backed gulls flock here for the fish, and whether casting lines from the shore, navigating the waters by boat or venturing out to the lake’s numerous islands, fishing enthusiasts, too, are rewarded with the chance to hook prized species such as perch, zander, pike and brown trout. The lake’s reputation as a prime fishing destination is boistered by its rich underwater ecosystem and the surrounding landscape. Don’t miss the chance to swim, with water temperatures rising to 20C in summer.

6. Blue Lake, New Zealand Best for: paddleboarding

Lake Tikitapu in the Rotorua Bay of Plenty region on New Zealand’s North Island is known as Blue Lake thanks to its dazzling aqua hue, created by pumice and rhyolite on the lake bed. Skirted by the native bush and exotic redwoods of Whakarewarewa Forest, this volcanic crater lake is steeped in Māori history. Their spiritual connection to the land is profound, and for centuries Tikitapu has been a place of spiritual reverence, where rituals and ceremonies were performed to honour ancestors and seek guidance from the natural world.

Visibility is excellent, making Blue Lake an ideal place to swim, but hiring a paddleboard will open up remote reaches of the water. Secluded coves dot its shoreline, as do caves that flicker with glow worms after dark. While paddling, look out for native birds like the tui and fantail flitting through the trees along the shoreline.

7 . Lake Constance, Europe Best for: cycling

Straddling Germany, Austria and Switzerland, Lake Constance — or Bodensee, as it’s known locally — is Central Europe’s third-largest freshwater lake, and there’s no better way to see it than by bicycle. The 162-mile Bodensee-Radweg (Lake Constance Cycle Path) makes a spectacular loop of the lake, passing orchards, farms, vineyards, bird-rich wetlands, baroque pilgrimage churches and medieval castles. Stay in historic towns like Konstanz on the northwest shore and break up the pedalling with a swim. Particularly pretty is Hörnle beach; avoid pausing there in July and August, when it’s very crowded.

8. Great Lake of Alqueva, Portugal Best for: stargazing

Among the olive groves, cork oak forests, vineyards and snow-white towns of rural Alentejo is Portugal’s Great Lake of Alqueva, Europe’s largest reservoir. Sitting close to the Spanish border, this 97sq-mile lake has beaches and islets to explore by kayak, with castle-topped hill towns to hike to afterwards. The world’s first Starlight Tourism Destination and an official dark sky reserve, Alqueva shines at night. With a pair of binoculars, it’s possible to spot constellations, distant galaxies and meteor showers. For more serious stargazers, use the telescopes at Monsaraz observatory, or opt for a starlit canoe tour.

9. Laguna Colorada, Bolivia Best for: wildlife watching

On the Bolivian altiplano, Laguna Colorada is a sight to behold. This shallow, 23sq-mile lake sits 14,035ft above sea level, the pink-red tint of sediment in the water contrasting with the blue skies and snow-streaked volcanoes. Filled with algae and plankton, its mineral-rich waters draw thousands of flamingos, including three of the world’s six species (Chilean, Andean and the rare James’s flamingo). Watch them skim over the water at sunset, with the Andes towering behind.

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Cycling along lesser-known tulip fields

Historical cities of Alkmaar & Haarlem

Keukenhof, Hortus Bulborum, Zaanse Schans

Ship with max. 66 passengers

• Guided cycling: A tour leader will guide you during the cycling days
• Independent cycling: No tour leader, the ships’ crew does daily briefing, independent cycling
• Level 1: easy tours, very flat terrain
• Level 2: quite easy tours, mostly flat terrain
• Level 3: requires a higher level of exertion, medium hilly terrain
• Level 4: for experienced cyclists, hilly terrain with climbs

In the heart of the Mediterranean Sea

Visit 5 Aeolian Islands

Explore UNESCO World Heritage landscapes

Barge with max. 12 passengers

Discover the Wadden Sea by bike & ship

Pretty harbor towns Enkhuizen & Stavoren

Texel & Terschelling islands bike trips

Sailing ship with max. 26 passengers

Our travel program for 2025 is ready! Book now to guarantee your place!

Gentle vineyard biking in 3 countries

Learn about Roman history in Trier

Taste the region’s fine Riesling wines

Barge with max. 31 passengers

Gorgeous cycling in Belgium and N. France

World War I battlefields in Somme Valley

Enjoy Paris, the City of Lights

Barges with 20 to max. 24 passengers

Bike through beautiful countryside

Art and culture in Sens and Auxerre

Enjoy great Burgundy wines

Premium Barges with max. 24 passengers

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