2023 Round 2 – Sea Trail 4

Ikaria – Samos – Patmos – Kalymnos

Highlights: Stop by wineries and olive oil producers. Visit unique cured & smoked fish producers (Kalymnos), women food cooperatives (Ikaria), and the Giannidis permaculture farm, and an olive oil shop factory (Samos). Explore natural sponge caves, and traditional sponge harvesters (Kalymnos). Swim or surf in long, spectacular beaches. Bathe in rivers, sweet water lagoons or thermal springs (Ikaria). Hike or rock-climb on cliffs or lush mountainous terrain. Visit ancient temples, medieval monasteries (Patmos) and old windmills.

The price includes: Sailing, accommodation on board, meals on board and/or at the producers’ facilities, guided island tours, life jackets, bedding and bath towels (no beach towels). Value added tax (24%) is included.
The price does not include: Transfers to/from the points of embarkation/disembarkation

Booking form

The cost for participating in the sailing tours will go towards covering the cost of boat rental, professional captain’s salary, meals and targeted visits in the islands plus subsidizing the transportation cost of small quantities of high quality and low carbon footprint products. Our not for profit organisation will reinvest any profits into expanding sustainable agriculture and transport in the islands, supporting local producers to optimize their products and finding markets for them. The legal form chosen does not allow distribution of profits to Aegean Sails SCE member shareholders and it is specifically conceived as a legal social improvement vehicle.

About the travel experience
During the voyage we welcome guests onboard, who will explore the unique Aegean islands and their communities off the beaten track, using the power of the wind and plying nearly-forgotten routes to engage with local farms and craftsmen who need to trade their goods within the Aegean.
As a guest, you can learn and practice how to handle the vessel, hoist the sails, weigh anchor and navigate in day time and under the stars, alongside practiced mariners who are there to engage and teach you.
Upon making land, there will be further opportunity to experience the local culture by visiting the producers and their facilities and tasting their premium products. Additionally, there will be time to explore the fantastic Aegean biodiversity, visit archaeological sites, walk on ancient trails and experience authentic Greek hospitality, far away from mass-produced commercial tourism.

Making a difference
As much as you will enjoy this unique learning-by-doing experience, you will also make an important difference by helping us in our mission to raise awareness on environmental protection and sustainability. Some facts about our voyages:

=> Our sailboats travel only with wind power and the least possible use of the engine.

=> Inland routes, where feasible, are by bicycle or electric car (solar-charged)

=> A wooden bicycle, provided by COCO-MAT.bike, sails with us and is used to transport the goods ashore.

=> We use solar panels for electric devices, lights and refrigerator for transported products.

=> We repair – reuse – recycle in order to reduce our environmental impact, instead of using single use plastic.

=> Αll meals are locally prepared and cooked with natural and seasonal ingredients. On-board supplies are also locally sourced.

Sailing experience is not required. Highlights & activities on each island are indicative and can be adapted according to visitors’ interests and needs. Travel insurance is highly recommended.

Please read our Terms & conditions before you book your tour.

Booking form