Mykonos! The quintessential Greek island for the jet set in the 1960s has grown into an international destination for everyone - especially those with adventure and romance on their minds. The iconic windmills greet us with a visible reminder that conditions here can be breezy. But soon the island will surrender its secrets as we explore its shores by sea kayak on one of the newest Northwest Passage adventures. During this fabulous trip, we will encircle the island in a circumnavigation by kayak, and also have the opportunity to make a dramatic sea passage to the ancient island of Delos nearby.
| From: | Mykonos |
| Price: | $ 3,295 |
| Duration: | 8 Days, 7 Nights |
| Dates: | |
| September 1 - 8, 2012 | |
Itinerary:
Day 1: After our Northwest Passage guides greet you at the airport or ferry port on Mykonos, the adventure truly begins. First, we'll settle into our accommodations at our very comfortable hotel at Panormos Bay. Depending on arrival times, there may be time to return to explore Chora, the main town of Mykonos, and visit the fascinating Mykonos Archaeological Museum. If time and the afternoon breezes allow it, we will conduct our first introductory sea kayaking lesson.
Tonight, we will toast the beautiful Mykonian sunset with welcome drinks on us at a famed "Hippie Fish Cafe" on Agios Giannis beach where the film "Shirley Valentine" was shot. We'll share introductions and information on the week to come before enjoying the first of our multi-course, open-menu dinners together. (D)
Day 2: After breakfast, we will head down to the water for final outfitting and an introductory kayaking lesson, followed by a paddle around Panormos Bay. We'll observe numerous sea birds, and, if Poseidon smiles upon us, sea turtles, dolphins, or even a rare monk seal as we glide along this protected refuge.(B, D)
Day 3: After breakfast, we'll depart our charming inn and paddle northwest around the big rocky headland of Cape Armenistis, passing the old port town of Tourlos. After our paddling day, we'll shuttle back, returning to our base at Panormos Bay.
Day 4: Today we enjoy a vigorous paddle across the open water channel to the island of Delos, the traditional center of the Cycladic Islands and a protected archaeological preserve. We will visit the excellent museum and wander the extensive ruins, possibly walking up Mount Kynthnos - actually a small hill - for a wonderful view of the Cycladic islands. Know someone named Cynthia? The name derives from this spot on Delos. This is also where Apollo and Artemis are said to have been born under the single palm tree rising from the bayou.
Depending on weather conditions, we may circumnavigate Delos prior to crossing back to Mykonos. Once across the channel, this evening will find us staying on the cliffs above Agios Giannis, enjoying a view of Delos from another perspective. Dinner is on your own tonight with the option to shuttle into Chora where you can choose from world-class fine dining, Italian street side pasta makers, and romantic psarotavernas specializing in sea food along the bayside. You'll also have the option to visit some of Mykonos' famous nightclubs or just take a romantic stroll along the starlit shoreline where the small waves splash against the buildings of "Venezia", Mykonos' famed small harbor. (B)
Day 5: After a pleasant breakfast this morning, we'll continue on toward our new destination of Platys Gialos, another renowned beach area. In the late afternoon, our sunset hike will take us to the tip of Cape Tarzanas and a spectacular view of the Aegean and its islands spread out at our feet. Tonight, we'll enjoy another delicious group dinner filled with local delights before continuing our circumnavigation in the morning. (B,D)
Day 6: This morning we will ask the Greek god of the North Wind, Boreas, to be kind and, if conditions permit, we'll shuttle to our put-in point and continue our dramatic journey along the unspoiled, bare reaches of Mykonos' North Coast, passing the small island of Dragonisis which lies to the east. After conquering more of the northeastern coast of Mykonos by kayak, we will arrive at Agia Anna, a picturesque old fishing village with a quiet crescent of sandy beach. We will overnight here in traditional rooms within steps of the sea. (B,D)
Day 7: Our last day of kayaking will see our now fully-empowered paddling muscles enjoying full play as we complete our circumnavigation of Mykonos. At a secluded shore, we'll enjoy a picnic lunch before continuing our journey, returning back to Panormos Beach where it all began just a week ago. Tonight's celebratory dinner will allow us to share our many stories and congratulate ourselves on the successful completion of this journey by kayak. (B,D)
Day 8: After breakfast, we'll gather our belongings and say goodbye to this incredible island and give thanks for the unforgettable adventures it has provided. We will transfer you to the airport by 11:30 AM so that you can make any connecting flights. (B)
* Note: This is our intended itinerary. As with any adventure travel, the forces of nature can be unpredictable, requiring us to make adjustments and changes to the itinerary for the safety and happiness of the participants in the event of strong winds. We have many alternatives available in this situation, including a secret slate of scenic hikes, sightseeing expeditions to remote monasteries, additional museums, extra beach or shopping time, and the chance to explore the traditional interior portion of the island and a few of its legendary 365 chapels.
Trip details: Our planned accommodations for the week include family owned inns. Our trip is van supported. On most days, but not all, the van will meet us at various beaches and lunch stops. This gives everyone a chance to paddle as much as they want or take a break and shuttle in the van for part or all of a day's itinerary. Lunch breaks will include casual seaside tavernas and remote beach stops. When a picnic lunch is required, guides will be sure to let you know the evening before so that you can gather your provisions. Our group dinners are highlights, with appetizers selected by consensus and your own individual entree chosen from the full menu, followed usually by fruits, pastry, and raki. Rest assured you won't go hungry.
We hope you will join us on this unforgettable kayaking adventure!